1775

We had a larger congregation at the renewal of the Covenant than we have had for many years: And I do not know that ever we had a greater blessing. Afterwards many desired to return thanks, either for a sense of pardon, for full salvation, or for a fresh manifestation of his grace, healing all their backsliding.

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I set out for Bedfordshire, and in the evening preached at Luton. Wednesday, 11. I crept on through a miserable road to Bedford, but was well rewarded by the behavior of the congregation.

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We crossed over the country to Godmanchester. The whole town seemed to be moved. The people flocked together from all parts, so that the barn would in nowise contain them. I found great liberty of speech among them, and could not doubt but God would confirm the word of his messenger.

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Even at poor, dead Hertford was such a concourse of people, that the Room would not near contain them. And most of them were deeply attentive while I explained these awful words, “I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God.”

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Finding many were much dejected by the threatening posture of public affairs, I strongly enforced our Lord’s words, “Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?” And of a truth God spoke in his word. Many were ashamed of their unbelieving fears; and many enabled to “be careful for nothing,” but simply to “make” all their “requests known unto God with thanksgiving.”

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I saw a glorious instance of the power of faith. Thomas Vokins, a man of a sorrowful spirit, used always to hang down his head like a bulrush. But a few days since, as he was dying without hope, God broke in upon his soul; and from that time he has been triumphing over pain and death, and rejoicing with joy full of glory.

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I had a particular conversation with Mr. Ferguson on some difficulties in philosophy: He seemed thoroughly satisfied himself; but he did not satisfy me. I still think both Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Jones have fully proved their several points.

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I had an opportunity of seeing Mr. Gordon’s curious garden at Mile-end, the like of which I suppose is hardly to be found in England, if in Europe. One thing in particular I learned here, the real nature of the tea-tree. I was informed,

1. That the Green and the Bohea are of quite different species.

2. That the Bohea is much tenderer than the Green.

3. That the Green is an evergreen; and bears, not only in the open air, but in the frost, perfectly well.

4. That the herb of Paraguay likewise bears the frost, and is a species of tea.

5. And I observed that they are all species of bay or laurel. The leaf of Green tea is both of the color, shape, and size of a bay leaf: That of Bohea is smaller, softer, and of a darker color. So is the herb of Paraguay, which is of a dirty green; and no larger than our common red sage.

March 1. — (Being Ash-Wednesday.) I took a solemn leave of our friends at London; and on Thursday, 2, met our brethren at Reading. A few were awakened, and perhaps converted here, by the ministry of Mr. Talbot. But as he did not take any account of them, or join them together, we found no trace of them remaining. A large room was presently filled, and all the spaces adjoining. And I have hardly even seen a people who seemed more eager to hear.

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The mild weather changed into cold and blustering, with heavy showers of rain; notwithstanding which, we had a very large congregation at Ramsbury Park. Saturday, 4. At noon I preached to a still larger congregation, in the new House at Seend: In the afternoon I went on to Bristol; whence, on Monday, 13, I set out for Ireland.

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At noon I preached in Tewkesbury, now the liveliest place in the Circuit. Many here have been lately convinced of sin, and many converted to God. Some have been made partakers of the great salvation, and their love and zeal have stirred up others. So that the flame now spreads wider and wider. O let none be able to quench it! In the evening I preached at Worcester. Here also the flame is gradually increasing. While I was here, there was a very extraordinary trial at the assizes. A boy being beaten by his master, ran away; and wandering about till he was half starved, was then allowed to lie in the hay-loft of an inn. In the night he stole into the room where two gentlemen lay; (probably not very sober;) and, without waking them, picked the money out of both their pockets; though their breeches lay under their head. In the morning, having confessed the fact, he was committed to gaol. He made no defense: So one of the Counsellors rose up, and said, “My Lord, as there is none to plead for this poor boy, I will do it myself.” He did so, and then added, “My Lord, it may be this bad boy may make a good man. And I humbly conceive, it might be best to send him back to his master. I will give him a guinea towards his expenses.” “And I will give him another,” said the Judge. Which he did, with a mild and serious reproof. So he was sent back full of good resolutions.

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In the evening, though it was cold, I was obliged to preach abroad at Newcastle. One buffoon labored much to interrupt. But as he was bawling, with his mouth wide open, some arch boys gave him such a mouthful of dirt as quite satisfied him.

On Saturday and Sunday I preached at Congleton and Macclesfield; Monday, 20, at Stockport and Manchester. Tuesday, 21. I preached at Knutsford; but the house would by no means contain the congregation. The street too was filled; and even those which could not hear were silent. This is uncommon; especially in a town little accustomed to this strange way of preaching: Those who cannot hear themselves usually taking care to hinder others from hearing.

In the evening I opened the new House at Northwich, which was sufficiently crowded both this night and the next. After preaching at many places in the way, on Saturday, 25, I came to Liverpool. The congregations here, both morning and evening, were so large, and so deeply attentive, that I could not be sorry for the contrary winds, which detained us till Thursday, the 30th, when we went on board the Hawk. We were scarce out of the river, when the wind turned against us, and blew harder and harder. A rolling sea made my companions sick enough. But so fine a ship I never sailed in before. She never shipped one sea, and went more steady than I thought was possible. On Friday morning it blew hard; but the next day we had a fair, small wind. So about six, on Sunday, APRIL 2, we landed at Dunleary; and between nine and ten reached Whitefriar-Street. On Monday and Tuesday I examined the society, in which, two years ago, there were three hundred and seventy-six persons. And I found three hundred and seventy-six still, not one more or less. But I found more peace and love among them, than I had done for many years.

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I visited that venerable man, Dr. Rutty, just tottering over the grave; but still clear in his understanding, full of faith and love, and patiently waiting till his change should come. Afterwards I waited on Lady Moira; and was surprised to observe, though not a more grand, yet a far more elegant room, than any I ever saw in England. It was an octagon, about twenty feet square, and fifteen or sixteen high; having one window, (the sides of it inlaid throughout with mother-of-pearl,) reaching from the top of the room to the bottom. The ceiling sides, and furniture of the room were equally elegant. And must this too pass away like a dream!

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The good old Dean of St. Patrick’s desired me to come within the rails, and assist him at the Lord’s Supper. This also was a means of removing much prejudice from those who were zealous for the Church.

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Leaving just four hundred members in the society, I began my tour through the kingdom. I preached at Edinderry in the evening; on Tuesday and Wednesday, at Tyrrel’s Pass. Thursday, 13. Sending my chaise straight to Athlone, I rode to Mullingar; and thence, through miserable roads, to Longford. A large number of people attended the preaching, both in the evening and at eight in the morning, being Good-Friday. But I found very little of the spirit which was here two years ago. About eleven I preached at Loughan, and in the evening at Athlone. On Easter-Day I would willingly have preached abroad; but the weather would not permit. Monday 17. I preached Aghrim; and Tuesday-noon, at Eyre-Court. Afterwards I was desired to walk down to Lord Eyre’s. I was a little surprised at the inscription over the door, “Welcome to the house of liberty.” Does it mean liberty from sin? It is a noble old house. The staircase is grand; and so are two or three of the rooms. In the rest of the house, as well as in the ruinous outhouses, gardens, and fish-ponds, the owner seemed to say to every beholder, “All this profiteth me nothing!”

I preached in the evening at Birr, with a good hope that God would at length revive his work.

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About noon I preached in the market-place at Clara. It was the market-day; but that did not lessen the congregation. The poor people eagerly flocked from the market; and there was no buying or selling till I concluded.

After preaching at Coolylough, Tullamore, and Portarling to, (still “unstable as water,”) Saturday, 22, I found, at Mount-Mellick, a little company, who appeared to be better established. I spent Saturday and Sunday comfortably among them, building them up in our most holy faith.

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The Minister of Maryborough inviting me to preach in his church, I began reading Prayers about nine; and afterwards preached to a numerous congregation. For the present, every one seemed affected. Will not some bring forth fruit with patience?

In the evening I was scandalized both at the smallness and deadness of the congregation at Kilkenny. The next evening it was a little mended, but not much. Of all the dull congregations I have seen, this was the dullest.

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I went on to Waterford, where the rain drove us into the preaching-house, — the most foul horrid, miserable hole which I have seen since I left England. The next day I got into the open air, and a large congregation attended. I had designed to set out early in the morning; but doubting if I should ever have such another opportunity, (the Major of the Highland Regiment standing behind me, with several of his Officers, many of the soldiers before me, and the sentinel at the entrance of the court,) I gave notice of preaching at ten the next morning, and at four in the afternoon. I did so to a well-behaved congregation, and in the evening went on to Carrick.

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Early in the evening we reached Rathcormuck, but found the inn filled with Officers. It is true they were but five, and there were seven beds; but they had bespoke all, and would not spare us one! So we were obliged to go some miles further. We drove this day just threescore (English) miles.

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I came to Cork time enough to preach. The congregation was not small, and it was not large: But it was very large in George-Street at four in the afternoon, as well as deeply attentive. At six I preached in the Room, and could not but observe such singing as I have seldom heard in England. The women, in particular, sang so exactly that it seemed but one voice. Monday, MAY 1. I examined the society, and found it in such order, so increased both in grace and number, as I apprehend it had not been before, since the time of William Pennington.

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I rode to Bandon, and preached in the main street to a very numerous congregation. All behaved well, except three or four pretty gentlemen, who seemed to know just nothing of the matter. I found this society likewise much established in grace, and greatly increased in number. So has God blessed the labors of two plain men, who put forth all their strength in his work.

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I returned to Cork, and in the evening preached in Blackpool. It rained a little all the time I was preaching, but the people regarded it not.

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I was desired to preach on 1 John 5:7: “There are three that bear record in heaven.” The congregation was exceeding large; but abundantly larger in the evening. I never saw the House so crowded before. It was much the same the next evening. Tuesday, 9. I preached my farewell sermon in the afternoon; and going to Mallow in the evening, went on the next day to Limerick.

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I preached to a large congregation of Papists and Protestants, in the yard of the Custom-House, where many could hear within as well as without.

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Having waited for a chaise to go to Balligarane as long as I could, I at length set out on horseback. But T. Wride loitering behind, I might as well have spared my pains; for though I came to the town at the time appointed, I could find neither man, woman, nor child, to direct me to the preaching-house. After gaping and staring some time, I judged it best to go to Newmarket, where I was to preach in the evening. I began about six. The congregation was deeply serious; great part of whom came again at five in the morning. And were it only for this opportunity, I did not regret my labor.

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I examined the society at Limerick, containing now an hundred and one persons, seven less than they were two years ago. I a little wonder at this; considering the scandal of the cross is well-nigh ceased here, through the wise and steady behavior of our brethren. But they want zeal; they are not fervent in spirit: Therefore, they cannot increase.

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In the evening I preached at Galway, in the county Court-House, to a more civil and attentive congregation than I ever saw there before.

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About one I preached at Ballinrobe, in the assembly-room, and was agreeably surprised, both at the unusual number and seriousness of the hearers. I had purposed to go on to Castlebar, but now thought it might be worth while to stay a little longer. In the afternoon I took a view of the Castle. Colonel Cuffe’s father took great delight in this place, laid out beautiful gardens, and procured trees of all sorts, from all parts of the kingdom. Part of these placed on the slope of the hill, (at the side of which runs the river,) form a lovely wilderness, at the end whereof are regular rows of elms. But the Colonel has no pleasure therein. So all is now swiftly running to ruin.

I preached again at six, to a large congregation, and the next evening at Castlebar. Monday, 22. I spent two or three hours in one of the loveliest places, and with one of the loveliest families, in the kingdom. Almost all I heard put me in mind of those beautiful lines of Prior, — The nymph did like the scene appear,

Serenely pleasant, calmly fair;

Soft fell her words, as flew the air.

How willingly could I have accepted the invitation to spend a few days here! Nay, at present I must be about my Father’s business: But I trust to meet them in a still lovelier place.

Between Limerick and Castlebar, I read over the famous controversy between Drs. Clarke and Leibnitz. And is this he whom the King of Prussia extols, as something more than human? So poor a writer have I seldom read, either as to sentiments or temper. In sentiment, he is a thorough fatalist; maintaining roundly, and without reserve, that God has absolutely decreed from all eternity whatever is done in time; and that no creature can do more good, or less evil, than God has peremptorily decreed. And his temper is just suitable to his sentiments. He is haughty, self-conceited, sour, impatient of contradiction, and holds his opponent in utter contempt; though, in truth, he is but a child in his hands.

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I reached Sligo. My old friend, Andrew Maben, did not own me. However, a few did; to whom, with a tolerable congregation, I preached at six in the barracks. The next evening I preached in the market-house, to a far larger congregation. We seem, by all the late bustle and confusion, to have lost nothing. Here is a little company as much alive to God, and more united together than ever.

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I preached at Manorhamilton, and the next evening near the bridge at Swadlingbar. Knowing a large part of the congregation to have “tasted of the powers of the world to come,” I spoke on the glory that shall be revealed; and all seemed deeply affected, except a few Gentry, so called, who seemed to understand nothing of the matter.

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I preached at ten to a far larger congregation, on, “God now commandeth all men everywhere to repent;” and after church, to a still greater multitude, on, “It is appointed unto men once to die.”

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Being desired to give them a sermon at Belturbet, about eight I preached in the Town-Hall. It was not in vain. God opened, as it were, the windows of heaven, and showered his blessing down.

I called afterwards at Ballyhays, and spent an hour with that venerable old man, Colonel Newburgh. It does me good to converse with those who have just finished their course, and are quivering over the great gulf. Thence I went; on to Clones, — that is its proper name; not Clownish, as it is vulgarly called. It is a pleasant town, finely situated on a rising ground, in the midst of fruitful hills; and has a larger market-place than any I have seen in England, not excepting Norwich or Yarmouth. At six I preached in the old Danish fort, to the largest congregation I have had in the kingdom. The next morning I preached to a great part of them again; and again the word sunk “as the rain into the tender herb.”

I preached at Roasky at noon, and Sydare in the evening. Wednesday, 31. I hobbled on, through a miserable road, as far as wheels could pass, and then rode on to Lisleen. After dinner, we hastened to Dargbridge, and found a large congregation waiting. They appeared, one and all, to be deeply serious. Indeed there is a wonderful reformation spreading throughout this whole country, for several miles round. Outward wickedness is gone; and many, young and old, witness that the kingdom of God is within them.

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I reached Londonderry: But I had so deep an hoarseness, that my voice was almost gone. However, pounded garlick, applied to the soles of my feet, took it away before the morning. JUNE 4. (Being Whit-Sunday.) The Bishop preached a judicious, useful sermon, on the blasphemy of the Holy Ghost. He is both a good writer, and a good speaker; and he celebrated the Lord’s Supper with admirable solemnity. Hence I hastened to the New-Buildings. The sun was intensely hot, as it was on Monday and Tuesday. Six such days together, I was informed, have not been in Ireland for several years.

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I examined the society, growing in grace, and increased in number, from fifty-two to near seventy. Tuesday, 6. The Bishop invited me to dinner; and told me, “I know you do not love our hours, and will therefore order dinner to be on table between two and three o’clock.” We had a piece of boiled beef, and an English pudding. This is true good breeding. The Bishop is entirely easy and unaffected in his whole behavior, exemplary in all parts of public worship, and plenteous in good works.

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About noon I preached a few miles from Strabane; in the evening at Lisleen; and the next at Castle-Caulfield. In the night the rain came plentifully through the thatch, into my lodging-room. But I found no present inconvenience, and was not careful for the morrow.

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I preached at eight to a numerous congregation, in the market-place at Dungannon; at eleven, and at five in the afternoon, in the main street at Charlemount. I lodged at a gentleman’s, who showed me a flower, which he called a Gummy Cystus. It blooms in the morning, with a large, beautiful, snow-white flower; but every flower dies in the evening. New flowers blow and fall everyday. Does not this short-lived flower answer to that short-lived animal, the Ephemeron-fly?

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I preached at nine to a large congregation, at Killeman. The rain began as soon as I concluded; but it ceased time enough for me to preach in Mr. M’Gough’s avenue, at Armagh.

June 11. — (Being Trinity-Sunday.) I preached at nine on, “So God created man in his own image;” and in the evening, to an huge congregation. But I could not find the way to their hearts.

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Having taken a solemn leave of Armagh, about eleven I preached at Blackwater; and in the evening at Clanmain, where many seemed cut to the heart. O, why should they heal the wound slightly!

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I was not very well in the morning, but supposed it would soon go off. In the afternoon, the weather being extremely hot, I lay down on the grass, in Mr. Lark’s orchard, at Cock-Hill. This I had been accustomed to do for forty years, and never remember to have been hurt by it: Only I never before lay on my face; in which posture I fell asleep. I waked a little, and but a little, out of order, and preached with ease to a multitude of people. Afterwards I was a good deal worse. However, the next day I went on a few miles to the Grange. The table was placed here in such a manner, that, all the time I was preaching, a strong and sharp wind blew full on the left side of my head; and it was not without a good deal of difficulty that I made an end of my sermon. I now found a deep obstruction in my breast: My pulse was exceeding weak and low; I shivered with cold, though the air was sultry hot; only now and then burning for a few minutes. I went early to bed, drank a draught of treacle-and-water, and applied treacle to the soles of my feet. I lay till seven on Thursday, 15, and then felt considerably better. But I found near the same obstruction in my breast: I had a low, weak pulse; I burned and shivered by turns; and, if I ventured to cough, it jarred my head exceedingly. In going on to Derry-Anvil, I wondered what was the matter, that I could not attend to what I was reading; no, not for three minutes together; but my thoughts were perpetually shifting. Yet, all the time I was preaching in the evening, (although I stood in the open air, with the wind whistling round my head,) my mind was as composed as ever.

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In going to Lurgan, I was again surprised that I could not fix my attention on what I read: Yet, while I was preaching in the evening, on the Parade, I found my mind perfectly composed; although it rained a great part of the time, which did not well agree with my head. Saturday, 17. I was persuaded to send for Dr. Laws, a sensible and skillful Physician. He told me I was in a high fever, and advised me to lay by. But I told him that could not be done; as I had appointed to preach at several places, and must preach as long as I could speak. He then prescribed a cooling draught, with a grain or two of camphor, as my nerves were universally agitated. This I took with me to Tanderagee: But when I came there, I was not able to preach; my understanding being quite confused, and my strength entirely gone. Yet I breathed freely, and had not the least thirst, nor any pain, from head to foot.

I was now at a full stand, whether to aim at Lisburn, or to push forward for Dublin. But my friends doubting whether I could bear so long a journey, I went straight to Derry-Aghy; a gentleman’s seat, on the side of a hill, three miles beyond Lisburn. Here nature sunk, and I took my bed. But I could no more turn myself therein, than a new-born child. My memory failed, as well as my strength, and well-nigh my understanding. Only those words ran in my mind, when I saw Miss Gayer on one side of the bed, looking at her mother on the other: —

She sat, like Patience on a monument,

Smiling at grief.

But still I had no thirst, no difficulty of breathing, no pain, from head to foot.

I can give no account of what followed for two or three days, being more dead than alive. Only I remember it was difficult for me to speak, my throat being exceeding dry. But Joseph Bradford tells me I said on Wednesday, “It will be determined before this time tomorrow;” that my tongue was much swollen, and as black as a coal; that I was convulsed all over; and that for some time my heart did not beat perceptibly, neither was any pulse discernible.

In the night of Thursday, 22, Joseph Bradford came to me with a cup, and said, “Sir, you must take this.” I thought, “I will, if I can swallow, to please him; for it will do me neither harm nor good.” Immediately it set me a vomiting; my heart began to beat and my pulse to play again; and from that hour the extremity of the symptoms abated. The next day I sat up several hours, and walked four or five times across the room. On Saturday, I sat up all day, and walked across the room many times, without any weariness; on Sunday, I came down stairs, and sat several hours in the parlor; on Monday, I walked out before the house; on Tuesday, I took an airing in the chaise; and on Wednesday, trusting in God, to the astonishment of my friends, I set out for Dublin.

I did not determine how far to go that day, not knowing how my strength would hold. But finding myself no worse at Bannbridge, I ventured to Newry; and, after traveling thirty (English) miles, I was stronger than in the morning.

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I went on to the Man-of-war, forty (Irish) miles from the Globe, at Newry. Friday, 30. We met Mr. Simpson, (with several other friends,) coming to meet us at Drogheda; who took us to his country seat at James-Town, about two miles from Dublin.

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Finding myself a little stronger, I preached for the first time; and I believe most could hear. I preached on Thursday again; and my voice was clear, though weak. So on Sunday I ventured to preach twice, and found no weariness at all. Monday, 10. I began my regular course of preaching, morning and evening.

While I was in Dublin, I read two extraordinary books, but of very different kinds; — Mr. Sheridan’s “Lectures on Elocution,” and “The Life of Count Marsay;” and was disappointed in both. There is more matter in the penny tract, “On Action and Utterance,” abundantly more, than in all Mr. S.’s book; though he seems to think himself a mere Phenix. Count Marsay was doubtless a pious man, but a thorough enthusiast; guided, in all his steps, not by the written word, but by his own imagination; which he calls the Spirit.

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I again assisted at St. Patrick’s in delivering the elements of the Lord’s Supper. In the evening I embarked in the Nonpareil; and, about ten on Tuesday morning, landed at Park-Gate. Wednesday, 26. I found one relic of my illness, — my hand shook, so that I could hardly write my name. But after I had been well electrified, by driving four or five hours, over very rugged, broken pavement, my complaint was removed, and my hand was as steady as when I was ten years old.

About noon I preached in the shell of the House at Wigan. In the middle of the sermon, came an impetuous storm of thunder, lightning, and rain, which added much to the solemnity of the occasion. Thursday, 27. I went on to Miss Bosanquet’s, and prepared for the Conference. How willingly could I spend the residue of a busy life in this delightful retirement! But, Man was not born in shades to lie!

Up and be doing! Labor on, till

Death sings a requiem to the parting soul.

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I preached under Birstal-Hill, and the greater part of the huge audience could hear while I enforced, “When the breath of man goeth forth, he turneth again to his dust, and then all his thoughts perish.” I preached at Leeds in the evening, and found strength in proportion to my work.

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Our Conference began. Having received several letters, intimating that many of the Preachers were latterly unqualified for the work, having neither grace nor gifts sufficient for it, I determined to examine this weighty charge with all possible exactness. In order to this, I read those letters to all the Conference; and begged that every one would freely propose and enforce whatever objection he had to any one. The objections proposed were considered at large: In two or three difficult cases, Committees were appointed for that purpose. In consequence of this, we were all fully convinced that the charge advanced was without foundation; that God has really sent those laborers into his vineyard, and has qualified them for the work: And we were all more closely united together than we have been for many years.

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I preached at Bradford, where the people are all alive. Many here have lately experienced the great salvation, and their zeal has been a general blessing. Indeed, this I always observe, — wherever a work of sanctification breaks out, the whole work of God prospers. Some are convinced of sin, others justified, and all stirred up to greater earnestness for salvation.

I breakfasted at Great-Horton. Two or three of the neighbors then came in to prayer. Quickly the house was filled; and, a few minutes after, all the space before the door. I saw the opportunity, and without delay got upon the horse block, in the yard. Abundance of children crowded round me, and round them a numerous congregation. So I gave them an earnest exhortation, and then commended them to the grace of God.

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At one I proclaimed the glorious Gospel to the usual congregation at Birstal, and in the evening at Leeds. Then, judging it needful to pay a short visit to our brethren at London, I took the stage-coach, with five of my friends, about eight o’clock. Before nine, a gentleman in a single-horse chaise struck his wheel against one of ours. Instantly the weight of the men at top overset the coach; otherwise, ten times the shock would not have moved it; but neither the coachman, nor the men at top, nor any within, were hurt at all. On Tuesday, in the afternoon, we were met at Hatfield by many of our friends, who conducted us safe to London.

Having spent a few days in town, on Monday, 14, I set out for Wales; and Wednesday, 16, reached the Hay. Being desired to give them one sermon at Trevecka, I turned aside thither, and on Thursday, 17, preached at eleven to a numerous congregation. What a lovely place! And what a lovely family! still consisting of about six score persons. So the good “man is turned again to his dust!” But his thoughts do not perish. I preached at Brecon the next day, and on Saturday, 19, went on to Carmarthen. How is this wilderness become a fruitful field! A year ago I knew no one in this town who had any desire of fleeing from the wrath to come; and now we have eighty persons in society. It is true not many of them are awakened; but they have broke off their outward sins. Now let us try, whether it be not possible to prevent the greater part of these from drawing back.

About this time I received a remarkable letter, from one of our Preachers at West-Bromwich, near Wednesbury. The substance of it is as follows: — “August 16, 1775.

“About three weeks since, a person came and told me, Martha Wood, of Darlaston, was dying, and had a great desire to see me. When I came into the house, which, with all that was in it, was scarce worth five pounds, I found, in that mean cottage, such a jewel as my eyes never beholden before. Her eyes even sparkled with joy, and her heart danced like David before the ark: In truth, she seemed to be in the suburbs of heaven, upon the confines of glory.

“She took hold of my hand, and said, ‘I am glad to see you; you are my father in Christ. It is twenty years since I heard you first. It was on that text, Now ye have sorrow: But I will see you again, end your heart shall rejoice, end your joy no man taketh from you. In that hour God broke into my soul, delivered me from all sorrow, and filled my heart with joy; and, blessed be his name, I never have lost it, from that hour to this.’

“For the first ten years, she was sometimes in transports of joy, carried almost beyond herself; but for these last ten years, she has had the constant witness that God has taken up all her heart. ‘He has filled me,’ said she, ‘with perfect love; and perfect love casts out fear. Jesus is mine; God, and heaven, and eternal glory, are mine. My heart, my very soul is lost, yea, swallowed up, in God.’ “There were many of our friends standing by her bedside. She exhorted them all, as one in perfect health, to keep close to God. ‘You can never,’ said she, ‘do too much for God: When you have done all you can, you have done too little. O, who that knows Him, can love, or do, or suffer too much for Him!’

“Some worldly people came in. She called them by name, and exhorted them to repent and turn to Jesus. She looked at me, and desired I would preach her funeral sermon on those words, ‘I have fought the good fight; I have finished my course; I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me at that day.’ “She talked to all round about her in as scriptural and rational a manner as if she had been in her full strength, (only now and then catching a little for breath,) with all the smiles of heaven in her countenance. Indeed several times she seemed to be quite gone; but in a little while the taper lit up again, and she began to preach, with divine power, to all that stood near her. She knew every person, and if any came into the room whom she knew to be careless about religion, she directly called them by name, and charged them to seek the Lord while he might be found. At last she cried out, ‘I see the heavens opened; I see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, with numbers of the glorified throng, coming nearer and nearer. They are just come!’ At that word, her soul took its flight, to mingle with the heavenly host. We looked after her, as Elisha after Elijah; and I trust some of us have catched her mantle.”

After making a little tour through Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Glamorganshire, on Monday, 28, setting out early from Cardiff, I reached Newport about eight; and soon after preached to a large and serious congregation. I believe it is five-and-thirty years since I preached here before, to a people who were then wild as bears. How amazingly is the scene changed! O what is too hard for God!

We came to the New-Passage just as the boat was putting off; so I went in immediately. Some friends were waiting for me on the other side, who received me as one risen from the dead. The Room at Bristol was thoroughly filled in the evening; and we rejoiced in Him that heareth the prayer. Having finished my present business here, on Wednesday, 30, I set out at three, and at twelve preached in the great Presbyterian meeting-house in Taunton; and indeed with such freedom and openness of spirit as I did not expect in so brilliant a congregation. In the evening I preached in the dreary preaching-house at Tiverton. The people appeared as dull as the place. Yet who knows but that many of them may again hear the voice that raiseth the dead?

On Thursday and Friday I preached at Launceston, Bodmin, and Truro; on Saturday, in the main street at Redruth, to the usual congregation, on, “Happy are the people that have the Lord for their God.”

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I preached at eight in St. Agnes Church-town, on, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” A young woman followed me into the house, weeping bitterly, and crying out, “I must have Christ; I will have Christ. Give me Christ, or else I die!” Two or three of us claimed the promise in her behalf. She was soon filled with joy unspeakable, and burst out, “O let me die! Let me go to Him now! How can I bear to stay here any longer?” We left her full of that peace which passeth all understanding. About eleven I preached at Redruth; at five in the evening in the amphitheater at Gwennap. I think this is the most magnificent spectacle which is to be seen on this side heaven. And no music is to be heard upon earth comparable to the sound of many thousand voices, when they are all harmoniously joined together, singing praises to God and the Lamb.

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I went on to our friends at St. Ives, many of whom are now gray-headed, as well as me. In the evening I preached in the little meadow above the town, where I was some years ago. The people in general here (excepting the rich) seem almost persuaded to be Christians. Perhaps the prayer of their old Pastor, Mr. Tregoss, is answered even to the fourth generation.

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About nine I preached at Cararack, and crossed over to Cubert, where I found my good old friend Mr. Hoskins, quivering over the grave. He ventured, however, to the Church-town, and I believe found a blessing under the preaching.

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About eleven I preached in the Town-Hall at Liskeard, to a large and serious congregation. At Saltash some of our brethren met me with a boat, which brought me safe to Plymouth-Dock.

Understanding some of our friends here were deeply prejudiced against the King and all his Ministers, I spoke freely and largely on the subject at the meeting of the society. God applied it to their hearts; and I think there is not one of them now who does not see things in another light.

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I preached at noon on the quay in Plymouth; in the evening, in the new Square at the Dock. Many here seemed to feel the application of those words, “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”

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I preached in Exeter at four in the afternoon, and about seven at Collumpton. Sunday, 10. I came to Wellington in an acceptable time; for Mr. Jesse was ill in bed; so that if I had not come, there could have been no Service, either morning or evening. The church was moderately filled in the morning: In the afternoon it was crowded in every corner; and a solemn awe fell on the whole congregation, while I pressed that important question, “What is a man profited, if he should gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”

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I preached again in the new meeting at Taunton, to such a congregation as I suppose was never there before. I was desired to preach on the same text as at Wellington; and it was attended with the same blessing. On Tuesday I went on to Bristol. On Thursday and Friday, I preached at Keynsham, Bradford, and Bath; on Tuesday, 19, at Frome; and on Wednesday, at Pensford. Thence I went on to the lovely family at Publow, a pattern for all the boarding-schools in England. Every thing fit for a Christian to learn is taught here; but nothing unworthy the dignity of the Christian character. I gave a short exhortation to the children, which they received with eagerness. Many of them have the fear of God: Some of them enjoy his love.

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At the earnest request of the prisoner, who was to die next day, (and was very willing so to do; for, after deep agony of soul, he had found peace with God,) I preached at Newgate to him, and a crowded audience; many of whom felt that God was there. Sunday, 24. I preached abroad in the afternoon to a lovely congregation. Friday, 29, we observed as a fast-day, meeting at five, nine, one, and in the evening: And many found a strong hope, that God will yet be entreated for a guilty land.

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The weather favored us again: I preached once more abroad, and concluded at the point where I begun, in opening and strongly applying those words, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”

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I set out early; and, preaching at the Devizes, Sarum, Winchester, and Portsmouth in my way, on Friday, 6, in the afternoon I returned to London.

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I preached in Moorfields to a larger congregation than usual. Strange that their curiosity should not be satisfied yet, after hearing the same thing near forty years!

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I preached at Chesham, on the strait gate; and all that heard seemed affected for the present. Tuesday, 10, 1 went on to Wycomb, and was much refreshed by the earnest attention of the whole congregation.

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I took a walk to Lord Shelburne’s house. What variety, in so small a compass! A beautiful grove, divided by a serpentine walk, conceals the house from the town. At the side of this runs a transparent river, with a smooth walk on each bank. Beyond this is a level lawn; then the house with sloping gardens behind it. Above these is a lofty hill; near the top of which is a lovely wood, having a grassy walk running along, just within the skirts of it. But can the owner rejoice in this paradise? No; for his wife is snatched away in the bloom of youth!

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About noon I preached at Watlington; and in the evening at Oxford, in a large House formerly belonging to the Presbyterians. But it was not large enough: Many could not get in. Such a congregation I have not seen at Oxford, either for seriousness or number, for more than twenty years.

I borrowed here a volume of Lord Chesterfield’s Letters, which I had heard very strongly commended. And what did I learn? — That he was a man of much wit, middling sense, and some learning; but as absolutely void of virtue, as any Jew, Turk, or Heathen that ever lived. I say, not only void of all religion, (for I doubt whether he believed there is a God, though he tags most of his letters with the name, for better sound sake,) but even of virtue, of justice, and mercy, which he never once recommended to his son. And truth he sets at open defiance: She continually guards him against it. Half his letters inculcate deep dissimulation, as the most necessary of all accomplishments. Add to this, his studiously instilling into the young man all the principles of debauchery, when himself was between seventy and eighty years old. Add his cruel censure of that amiable man, the Archbishop of Cambray, (quantum dispar illi)¹ as a mere time-serving hypocrite! And this is the favorite of the age! Whereas, if justice and truth take place, if he is rewarded according to his desert, his name will stink to all generations.

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I preached at Finstock. How many days should I spend here if I was to do my own will! Not so: I am “to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish his work.” Therefore this is the first day I ever spent here: And perhaps it may be the last.

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About eight I preached at Witney. I admired the seriousness and decency of the congregation at church. I preached at five, on, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself;” a word that is sufficient to convince all mankind of sin. In meeting the select society, I was much comforted to find so few of them losing ground, and the far greater part still witnessing that “the blood of Christ cleanseth from all sin.”

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We had a lovely congregation at five. About nine I preached at Oxford; in Newnham at one; and in the evening at Wallingford. Tuesday,

17. I went over the Downs to Kingston-lodge; a lone house; yet we had a numerous as well as serious congregation. In the evening I preached in the large Room at the poor-house in Ramsbury. The people flocked together from every side; and God gave us his blessing.

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I returned to Newbury. Some of our friends informed me, there were many red-hot patriots here; so I took occasion to give a strong exhortation, to “fear God, and honor the King.”

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I preached at Reading; and on Friday, returned to London.

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I set out for Northamptonshire, and in the evening preached at Towcester. Tuesday, 24. About noon we took horse for Whittlebury in a fine day: But before we had rode half an hour, a violent storm came, which soon drenched us from head to foot. But we dried ourselves in the afternoon, and were no worse. Wednesday, 25. I preached at Northampton, and on Thursday noon at Brixworth; a little town about six miles north of Northampton. I believe very few of the townsmen were absent, and all of them seemed to be much affected. So did many at Northampton in the evening, while I described him “that builds his house upon a rock.” Friday, 27 I preached about noon at Hanslop. In my way I looked over a volume of Dr. Swift’s Letters. I was amazed! Was ever such trash palmed upon the world, under the name of a great man? More than half of what is contained in those sixteen volumes, would be dear at two pence a volume; being all, and more than all, the dull things which that witty man ever said. In the evening I preached at Bedford, and the next evening came to London.

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I visited one who was full of good resolutions, — if he should recover. They might be sincere, or they might not: But how far will these avail before God? He was not put to the trial, how long they would last: Quickly after, God required his soul of him.

Monday, and the following days, I visited the little societies in the neighborhood of London. Saturday, NOVEMBER 11. I made some additions to the “Calm Address to our American Colonies.” Need any one ask from what motive this was wrote? Let him look round: England is in a flame! A flame of malice and rage against the King, and almost all that are in authority under him. I labor to put out this flame. Ought not every true patriot to do the same? If hireling writers on either side judge of me by themselves, that I cannot help.

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I was desired to preach, in Bethnal-Green church, a charity sermon for the widows and orphans of the soldiers that were killed in America. Knowing how many would seek occasion of offense, I wrote down my sermon. I dined with Sir John Hawkins and three other gentlemen that are in commission for the peace; and was agreeably surprised at a very serious conversation, kept up during the whole time I stayed.

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I preached at Dorking; the next evening at Ryegate-place, I think, to the largest congregation that I have seen there. But still I fear we are ploughing upon the sand: We see no fruit of our labors. Friday, 17. I crossed over to Shoreham, the most fruitful place in all the Circuit, and preached in the evening to a people just ripe for all the Gospel promises, on, “Now, why tarriest thou? Arise, and wash away thy sins.” The next morning I returned to London.

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I went on to Robertsbridge, and preached to a deeply attentive congregation. Tuesday, 21. Several were with us in the evening at Rye, who had never heard a Methodist sermon before. However, considering the bulk of the congregation, more than an handful of Gentry, I earnestly besought them not to “receive the grace of God in vain.” The next evening I applied part of the thirteenth chapter of the First Epistle to the Corinthians. Many were shaken when they weighed themselves in that balance. May we not be found wanting in that day!

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About noon I preached at Cranbrook, and in the evening at Staplehurst. Friday, 24. I preached at Sevenoaks, and on Saturday returned to London.

In some of my late little journeys I read Mr. Wraxal’s Travels, in which are several ingenious remarks. But the account he gives of Count Struenzee is a mistake, from beginning to end. Struenzee was as bad a man as most that ever lived. He caused many horrid abuses; but never reformed, or desired to reform, one. And there was abundant proof of the crime for which he suffered: Therefore, the behavior of King George was exactly right.

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I set out for Norwich. That evening I preached at Colchester; Tuesday, at Norwich; Wednesday, at Yarmouth.

About this time I published the following letter in Lloyd’s “Evening Post:” “Sir,

“I HAVE been seriously asked, ‘From what motive did you publish your Calm Address to the American Colonies?’

“I seriously answer, Not to get money. Had that been my motive, I should have swelled it into a shilling pamphlet, and have entered it at Stationers’ Hall.

“Not to get preferment for myself, or my brother’s children. I am a little too old to gape after it for myself: And if my brother or I sought it for them, we have only to show them to the world. “Not to please any man living, high or low. I know mankind too well. I know they that love you for political service, love you less than their dinner; and they that hate you, hate you worse than the devil.

“Least of all did I write with a view to inflame any: Just the contrary. I contributed my mite toward putting out the flame which rages all over the land. This I have more opportunity of observing than any other man in England. I see with pain to what an height this already rises, in every part of the nation. And I see many pouring oil into the flame, by crying out, ‘ How unjustly, how cruelly, the King is using the poor Americans; who are only contending for their liberty, and for their legal privileges!’ “Now there is no possible way to put out this flame, or hinder its rising higher and higher, but to show that the Americans are not used either cruelly or unjustly; that they are not injured at all, seeing they are not contending for liberty; (this they had, even in its full extent, both civil and religious;) neither for any legal privileges; for they enjoy all that their charters grant. But what they contend for, is, the illegal privileges of being exempt from parliamentary taxation. A privilege this, which no charter ever gave to any American colony yet; which no charter can give, unless it be confirmed both by King, Lords, and Commons; which, in fact, our colonies never had; which they never claimed till the present reign: And probably they would not have claimed it now, had they not been incited thereto by letters from England. One of these was read, according to the desire of the writer, not only at the continental Congress, but likewise in many congregations throughout the Combined Provinces. It advised them to seize upon all the King’s Officers; and exhorted them, ‘Stand valiantly, only for six months, and in that time there will be such commotions in England that you may have your own terms.’

“This being the real state of the question, without any coloring or aggravation, what impartial man can either blame the King, or commend the Americans?

“With this view, to quench the fire, by laying the blame where it was due, the ‘Calm Address’ was written. I am, Sir, “Your humble servant,

“John Wesley.

“As to reviewers, news writers, London Magazines, and all that kind of gentlemen, they behave just as I expected they would. And let them lick up Mr. Toplady’s spittle still: A champion worthy of their cause.”

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I preached at Lowestoft at noon, and Yarmouth in the evening. Here a gentleman, who came with me from London, was taken ill (he informed me) of the bloody flux. This being stopped, I thought his head was disordered; and would fain have sent him back without delay, offering him my chaise and my servant to attend him; though I could ill spare either one or the other. But he could not in anywise be prevailed on to accept of the proposal. I afterwards heard, he had been insane before he left London. However, I could now only make the best of it.

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After preaching at Loddon, I returned to Norwich, and procured Mr.—— a lodging in a friend’s house, where I knew he would want nothing. I now again advised him to go straight to London in my chaise; but it was lost labor.

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I procured “the History of Norwich,” published but a few years since. The author shows, that it was built about the year 418. But it increased in succeeding ages, till it was more than double to what it is now, having no less than sixty churches. Its populousness may be indisputably proved, by one single circumstance: — The first time it was visited with the sweating-sickness, (which usually killed in ten hours,) there died, in about six months, upwards of fifty-seven thousand persons; which is a considerably greater number than were in the whole city a few years ago. He remarks concerning this unaccountable kind of plague,

1. That it seized none but Englishmen; none of the French, Blemings, or other foreigners then in the kingdom, being at all affected:

2. That it seized upon Englishmen in other kingdoms, and upon none else: And,

3. That the method at last taken was this, — The patient, if seized in the day-time, was immediately to lie down in his clothes, and to be covered up; if in the night-time, he was to keep in bed; and if they remained four-and-twenty hours without eating or drinking any thing, then they generally recovered.

In the evening a large mob gathered at the door of the preaching-house, the captain of which struck many (chiefly women) with a large stick. Mr. Randal going out to see what was the matter, he struck him with it in the face. But he was soon secured, and carried before the Mayor; who, knowing him to be a notorious offender, against whom one or two warrants were then lying, sent him to gaol without delay.

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We set out a little before day, and reached Lynn in the afternoon. In the evening, the new House would hardly contain one half of the congregation: And those who could not get in were tolerably patient, considering they could hear but a few words.

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About one, I heard a shrill voice in the street, calling and desiring me to come to Mr.——. Going directly, I found him ill in body, and in a violent agony of mind. He fully believed he was at the point of death; nor could any arguments convince him of the contrary. We cried to Him who has all power in heaven and earth, and who keeps the keys of life and death. He soon started up in bed, and said with a loud voice, “I shall not die, but live.”

In the day I visited many of those that remained with us, and those that had left us since they had learned a new doctrine. I did not dispute, but endeavored to soften their spirits, which had been sharpened to a high degree. In the evening the chapel was quite too small: And yet even those who could not get in were silent: A circumstance which I have seldom observed in any other part of England.

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Mr.—— was so thoroughly disordered, that it was heavy work to get him forward. At every stage, “he could not possibly go any farther; he must die there.” Nevertheless we reached Bury in the afternoon. I preached at seven to the largest congregation I ever saw there. We used to have about a dozen at five in the morning. But on Friday, 8, I suppose we had between forty and fifty. We set out between six and seven, hoping to reach Burntwood in the evening. But as we came thither some hours sooner than we expected, I judged it most advisable to push on: And, the moon shining bright, we easily reached London soon after six o’clock.

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In answer to a very angry letter, lately published in “the Gazetteer,” I published the following: —

“To The Rev. Mr. Caleb Evans.

“Rev. Sir,

“You affirm,

1. That I once ‘doubted whether the measures taken with respect to America could be defended either on the foot of law, equity, or prudence.’ I did doubt of these five years, nay indeed five months, ago. “You affirm,

2. That I ‘declared,’ (last year,) ‘the Americans were an oppressed, injured people.’ I do not remember that I did; but very possibly I might.

“You affirm,

3. That I then ‘strongly recommended an argument for the exclusive right of the colonies to tax themselves.’ I believe I did; but I am now of another mind.

“You affirm,

4. ‘You say in the Preface, I never saw that book.’ I did say so. The plain case was, I had so entirely forgotten it, that even when I saw it again, I recollected nothing of it, till I had read several pages. If I had, I might have observed that you borrowed more from Mr. P. than I did from Dr. Johnson. Though I know not whether I should have observed it, as it does not affect the merits of the cause.

“You affirm,

5. ‘You say, But I really believe he was told so;’ and add, ‘Supposing what I asserted was false, it is not easy to conceive what reason you could have for believing I was told so.’ My reason was, I believed you feared God, and therefore would not tell a willful untruth; so I made the best excuse for you which I thought the nature of the thing would admit of. Had you not some reasons to believe this of me; and therefore to say, (at least,) ‘I hope he forgot it?’ “‘But at this time I was perfectly unknown to you.’ No, at this time I knew you wrote that tract; but had I not, charity would have induced me to hope this, even of an entire stranger. “You now have my ‘feeble reply;’ and if you please to advance any new argument, (personal reflections I let go,) you may perhaps receive a farther reply from

“Your humble servant,

“John Wesley.

“London, December 9.

“I did not see your letter till this morning.”

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I began a little journey into Kent. In the evening I preached at Chatham, the next evening at Canterbury. I know not that ever I saw such a congregation there before. Tuesday, 12. I preached at Dover. As many as could, squeezed into the House, and the rest went quietly away.

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I returned to Canterbury, and had a long conversation with that extraordinary man, Charles Perronet. What a mystery of Providence! Why is such a saint as this buried alive by continual sickness? In the evening we had a larger congregation than before. I never saw the House thoroughly filled till now: And I am sure the people had now a call from God, whether they will hear or whether they will forbear.

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In the evening I preached at Chatham, and on Saturday returned to London. In the evening I preached a kind of funeral sermon at Snowsfields, for that upright woman, Jane Binknell. For many years she was a pattern of all holiness; and, for the latter part of her life, of patience. Yet as she labored under an incurable and painful disorder, which allowed her little rest, day or night, the corruptible body pressed down the soul, and frequently occasioned much heaviness. But, before she went, the clouds dispersed, and she died in sweet peace; but not in such triumphant joy as did Ann Davis, two or three weeks before. She died of the same disorder; but had withal, for some years, racking pains in her head day and night, which in a while rendered her stone-blind. Add to this, that she had a kind husband; who was continually reproaching her for living so long, and cursing her for not dying out of the way. Yet in all this she did not “charge God foolishly;” but meekly waited till her change should come. Today I read Dr. Beattie’s Poems; certainly one of the best Poets of the age. He wants only the ease and simplicity of Mr. Pope. — I know one, and only one, that has it.

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I took another little journey, and in the evening preached at Bedford. Tuesday, 19. I dragged on, through miserable roads, to St. Neot’s, and preached in a large room to a numerous congregation. Understanding that almost all the Methodists, by the advice of Mr.——, had left the church, I earnestly exhorted them to return to it. In the evening I preached at Godmanchester.

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I preached at Luton; the next evening, at Hertford; and on Friday morning, returned to London.

This day we observed as a day of fasting and prayer, and were much persuaded God will yet be entreated.

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I revised a volume of Latin Poems, wrote by a gentleman of Denmark. I was surprised. Most of the verses are not unworthy of the Augustan age. Among the rest, there is a translation of two of Mr. Pope’s Epistles, line for line. And yet, in language, not only as pure as Virgil’s, but as elegant too.

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