1782

I began the service at four in West-Street chapel, and again at ten. In the evening many of us at the new chapel rejoiced in God our Savior.

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A larger company than ever before met together to renew their covenant with God; and the dread of God, in all eminent degree, fell upon the whole congregation.

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Being informed, that, through the ill conduct of the Preachers, things were in much disorder at Colchester, I went down, hoping to “strengthen the things which remained, that were ready to die.” I found that part of the Class-Leaders were dead, and the rest had left the society; the Bands were totally dissolved; morning preaching was given up; and hardly any, except on Sunday, attended the evening preaching. This evening, however, we had a very large congregation, to whom I proclaimed “the terrors of the Lord.” I then told them, I would immediately restore the morning preaching: And the next morning I suppose an hundred attended. In the day-time I visited as many as I possibly could, in all quarters of the town. I then inquired, who were proper and willing to meet in Band; and who were fittest for Leaders either of bands or classes. The congregation this evening was larger than the last; and many again put their hands to the plough. O may the Lord confirm the fresh desires he has given, that they may no more look back!

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We had a very solemn and comfortable watch-night at West-Street. Sunday, 3. I took coach, and the next evening had a watch-night at Bath. Tuesday and Wednesday. After meeting the classes, I visited as many as I could, chiefly of the sick and poor. Thursday, 7. I preached about eleven at Keynsham, and in the evening at Bristol. Friday, 8, and most of the following days, I visited Mr. C——n, just hovering between life and death. What a blessing may this illness be! On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I visited the classes, and found a little increase.

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I opened the new House at Freatford. In the afternoon I called at Mr. Henderson’s, at Hannam, and spent some time with poor, disconsolate Louisa. Such a sight, in the space of fourteen years, I never saw before! Pale and wan, worn with sorrow, beaten with wind and rain, having been so long exposed to all weathers, with her hair rough and frizzled, and only a blanket wrapped round her, native beauty gleamed through all. Her features were small and finely turned; her eyes had a peculiar sweetness; her arms and fingers were delicately shaped, and her voice soft and agreeable. But her understanding was in ruins. She appeared partly insane, partly silly and childish. She would answer no question concerning herself, only that her name was Louisa. She seemed to take no notice of any person or thing, and seldom spoke above a word or two at a time. Mr. Henderson has restored her health, and she loves him much. She is in a small room by herself, and wants nothing that is proper for her. Some time since a gentleman called, who said he came two hundred miles on purpose to inquire after her. When he saw her face, he trembled exceedingly; but all he said was, “She was born in Germany, and is not now four-and twenty years old “

In the evening I preached at Kingswood School, and afterwards met the Bands. The colliers spoke without any reserve. I was greatly surprised: Not only the matter of what they spoke was rational and scriptural, but the language, yea, and the manner, were exactly proper. Who teacheth like Him?

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I left our friends at Bristol with satisfaction; having been much refreshed among them. In the evening and the next day, I preached at Stroud; Wednesday, 20, at Gloucester, Tewkesbury, and Worcester.

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About two in the morning we had such a storm as I never remember. Before it began, our chamber-door clattered to and fro exceedingly: So it sounded to us; although, in fact, it did not move at all. I then distinctly heard the door open, and, having a light, rose and went to it; but it was fast shut. Meantime the window was wide open: I shut it, and went to sleep again. So deep a snow fell in the night, that we were afraid the roads would be impassable. However, we set out in the afternoon, and made shift to get to Kidderminster. We had a large congregation in the evening, though it was intensely cold; and another at seven in the morning, Saturday, 23; and all of them were deeply serious. It was with a good deal of difficulty we got to Bridgenorth, much of the road being blocked up with snow. In the afternoon we had another kind of difficulty: The roads were so rough and so deep, that we were in danger, every now and then, of leaving our wheels behind us. But, by adding two horses to my own, at length we got safe to Madeley.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher complained, that, after all the pains they had taken, they could not prevail on the people to join in society, no nor even to meet in a class. Resolving to try, I preached to a crowded audience, on, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.” I followed the blow in the afternoon, by strongly applying those words, “Awake, thou that sleepest;” and then enforcing the necessity of Christian fellowship on all who desired either to awake or keep awake. I then desired those that were willing to join together for this purpose, to call upon Mr. Fletcher and me after Service. Ninety-four or ninety-five persons did so; about as many men as women. We explained to them the nature of a Christian society, and they willingly joined therein.

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I spent an agreeable hour at the Boarding-School in Sheriff-Hales. I believe the Misses Yeomans are well qualified for their office. Several of the children are under strong drawings. We then went on to Newcastle-under-Lyne. (This is the name of a little river which runs near the town.) Tuesday, 26. I found many at Burslem, too, under sad apprehensions of the public danger: So I applied to these also those comfortable words, “I will not destroy it for ten’s sake.”

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Coming to Congleton, I found the Calvinists were just breaking in, and striving to make havoc of the flock. Is this brotherly love? Is this doing as we would be done to? No more than robbing on the highway. But if it is decreed, they cannot help it: So we cannot blame them.

March 29. — (Being Good-Friday.) I came to Macclesfield just time enough to assist Mr. Simpson in the laborious service of the day. I preached for him morning and afternoon; and we administered the sacrament to about thirteen hundred persons. While we were administering, I heard a low, soft, solemn sound, just like that of an Aeolian harp. It continued five or six minutes, and so affected many, that they could not refrain from tears. It then gradually died away. Strange that no other organist (that I know) should think of this. In the evening, I preached at our Room. Here was that harmony which art cannot imitate.

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As our friends at Leek, thirteen miles from Macclesfield, would take no denial, I went over, and preached about noon to a lovely congregation. God bore witness to his word in an uncommon manner, so that I could not think much of my labor.

March 31. — (Being Easter-Day.) I preached in the church, morning and evening, where we had about eight hundred communicants. In the evening, we had a love-feast; and such an one as I had not seen for many years. Sixteen or eighteen persons gave a clear, scriptural testimony of being renewed in love. And many others told what God had done for their souls, with inimitable simplicity.

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We set out in the morning for Chapel-en–le-Firth. But such a journey I have seldom had, unless in the middle of January. Wind, snow, and rain we had in abundance, and roads almost impassable. However, at last we got to the town, and had a good walk from thence to the chapel, through the driving snow, about half a mile. But I soon forgot my labor, finding a large congregation that were all athirst for God.

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About ten I preached at New-Mills, to as simple a people as those at Chapel. Perceiving they had suffered much by not having the doctrine of Perfection clearly explained, and strongly pressed upon them, I preached expressly on the head; and spoke to the same effect in meeting the society. The spirits of many greatly revived; and they are now “going on unto perfection.” I found it needful to press the same thing at Stockport in the evening. Thursday, 4. I preached at noon in the new preaching-house at Ashton, to as many as the House would hold. The inscription over the door is, “Can any good come out of Nazareth? Come and see.” In the evening I preached at Manchester.

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About one I preached at Oldham; and was surprised to see all the street lined with little children; and such children as I never saw till now. Before preaching they only ran round me and before me; but after it, a whole troop, boys and girls, closed me in, and would not be content till I shook each of them by the hand. Being then asked to visit a dying woman, I no sooner entered the room, than both she and her companions were in such an emotion as I have seldom seen. Some laughed; some cried; all were so transported, that they could hardly speak. O how much better is it to go to the poor, than to the rich; and to the house of mourning, than to the house of feasting!

About this time I had a remarkable letter. Part of it was as follows: — “THE work of God prospers among us here: I never saw anything equal to it. The last time I was at St. Just, the Leaders gave me an account of seventy persons who had found either pardon or perfect love, within the last fortnight: And the night and morning I was there, twenty more were delivered. One-and-twenty, likewise, were then added to the society; most of whom have found peace with God.

“Christopher Watkins.”

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I preached at St. Helen’s, a small, but populous town, ten or twelve miles from Liverpool, in Joseph Harris’s house; who is removed hither from Kingswood, to take care of the copper-works. Surely God has brought him hither for good. The people seem to be quite ripe for the Gospel.

I was waked at half-past two this morning, as was Mr. Broadbent also, by a very loud noise, like a vast crack of thunder, accompanied with a flash of bright light. It made the whole room shake, and all the tables and chairs therein jar. But (what is strange) none in the house, or in the town, heard it, beside us.

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I saw an uncommon sight, — the preaching-house at Wigan filled, yea, crowded! Perhaps God will cause fruit to spring up even in this desolate place.

I had now leisure to transcribe a letter, wrote last May, from Amherst, in Nova-Scotia, by a young man whose father, some years since, went thither with his whole family: —

“IN the year 1779. I saw, if I would go to heaven, I must lead a new life. But I did not know I wanted an inward change, or see the deplorable state I was in by nature, till I was at a prayer-meeting, holden at Mr. Oxley’s. While they were praying, my heart began to throb within me, my eyes gushed out with tears, and I cried aloud for mercy; as did most that were in the room, about fourteen in number. One, indeed, could not hold from laughing, when we began to cry out; but it was not long before he cried as loud as any. In a few moments, it pleased God to fill Mrs. Oxley with joy unspeakable. After this, we went, almost every night, to Mr. Oxley’s, to sing and pray. Going thence one night, and seeing the Northern Lights, I thought, ‘What, if the Day of Judgment be coming?’ I threw myself down on the ground, and cried to the Lord for mercy. On Sunday, Mr. Wells, an old Methodist, came to Amherst, and gave us an exhortation; in which he said, ‘Sin and repent, sin and repent, till you repent in the bottomless pit.’ The words went like a dagger to my heart; and I continued mourning after God for five weeks and four days, till our monthly meeting. I was then strongly tempted to put an end to my life; but God enabled me to resist the temptation. Two days after, an old Methodist, after praying with me, said, ‘I think you will get the blessing before morning.’ About two hours after, while we were singing a hymn, it pleased God to reveal his Son in my heart. Since that time, I have had many blessed days, and many happy nights. “One Sunday night, after my brother Dicky and I were gone to bed, I asked him, ‘Can you believe?’ He answered, ‘No.’ I exhorted him to wrestle hard with God, and got up to pray with him. But he was unbelieving still: So I went to sleep again. Yet, not being satisfied, after talking largely to him, I got up again, and began praying for him; being fully persuaded that God would set his soul at liberty. And so he did: He pardoned all his sins, and bade him ‘go in peace.’

“It being now between twelve and one, I waked my brothers, John and Thomas, and told them the glad tidings. They got up. We went to prayer; and when we rose from our knees, Tommy declared, ‘God has blotted out all my sins.’ I then went to my father and mother, (who were both seeking salvation,) and told them the joyful news. My father said, ‘Willy, pray for us.’ I did; and earnestly exhorted him to wrestle with God for himself. So he did; and it was not long before God set his soul also at liberty. The next morning, it pleased Him to show my sister Sally his pardoning love. Blessed be his name for all his benefits!

“Not long after, Mr. Oxley’s son came to our house, and lay with me, and complained of his hardness of heart. After I had talked with him a little while, the Lord laid his hand upon him in a wonderful manner, so that he rolled up and down, and roared as in the agonies of death. But between one and two in the morning, he likeness could rejoice in God his Savior. These are a few of the wonderful works of God among us: But he is also working on the hearts of the inhabitants in general.

“William Black, Jun.”

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I preached, about eleven, in Todmorden church, thoroughly filled with attentive hearers; in the afternoon, in Heptonstall church; and at the Ewood in the evening. Wednesday, 24. The flood, caused by the violent rains, shut me up at Longwood-House. But on Thursday the rain turned to snow: So on Friday I got to Halifax; where Mr. Floyd lay in a high fever, almost dead for want of sleep. This was prevented by the violent pain in one of his feet, which was much swelled, and so sore, it could not be touched. We joined in prayer that God would fulfill his word, and give his beloved sleep. Presently the swelling, the soreness, the pain, were gone; and he had a good night’s rest.

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As we rode to Keighley, the northeast wind was scarce supportable; the frost being exceeding sharp, and all the mountains covered with snow. Sunday, 28. Bingley church was hot, but the heat was very supportable, both in the morning and afternoon. Monday, 29. I preached at Skipton-in-Craven, at Grassington, and at Pateley-Bridge. Tuesday, 30. I found Miss Ritchie, at Otley, still hovering between life and death.

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I met the select society; all but two retaining the pure love of God, which some of them received near thirty years ago. On Saturday evening I preached to an earnest congregation at Yeadon. The same congregation was present in the morning, together with an army of little children; full as numerous, and almost as loving, as those that surrounded us at Oldham.

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One of my horses having been so thoroughly lamed at Otley, that he died in three or four days, I purchased another: But as it was his way to stand still when he pleased, I set out as soon as possible. When we had gone three miles, the chaise stuck fast. I walked for about a mile, and then borrowed a horse, which brought me to Birstal before the Prayers were ended. I preached on those words in the Gospel, “Do ye now believe?” which gave me an opportunity of speaking strong words, both to believers and unbelievers. In the evening I preached at Leeds, on St. James’s beautiful description of pure religion and undefiled: “To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”

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I preached at Wakefield in the evening. Such attention sat on every face, that it seemed as if every one in the congregation was on the brink of believing. Friday, 10. I preached at Sheffield; Saturday, 11, about noon, at Doncaster; and in the evening at Epworth. I found the accounts I had received of the work of God here, were not at all exaggerated. Here is a little country town, containing a little more than eight or nine hundred grown people; and there has been such a work among them, as we have not seen in so short a time either at Leeds, Bristol, or London.

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About eight I preached at Misterton; about one at Overthorpe. Many of the Epworth children were there, and their spirit spread to all around them. But the huge congregation was in the market-place at Epworth, and the Lord in the midst of them. The love-feast which followed exceeded all. I never knew such a one here before. As soon as one had done speaking, another began. Several of them were children; but they spoke with the wisdom of the aged, though with the fire of youth. So out of the mouth of babes and sucklings did God perfect praise.

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I preached at Thorne. Never did I see such a congregation here before. The flame of Epworth hath spread hither also: In seven weeks fifty persons have found peace with God.

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Some years ago four factories for spinning and weaving were set up at Epworth. In these a large number of young women, and boys and girls, were employed. The whole conversation of these was profane and loose to the last degree. But some of these stumbling in at the prayer-meeting were suddenly cut to the heart. These never rested till they had gained their companions. The whole scene was changed. In three of the factories, no more lewdness or profaneness were found; for God had put a new song in their mouth, and blasphemies were turned to praise. Those three I visited today, and found religion had taken deep root in them. No trifling word was heard among them, and they watch over each other in love. I found it exceeding good to be there, and we rejoiced together in the God of our salvation.

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I set out for the other side of Lincolnshire. Thursday, 16. I preached in the new house at Barrow. I was well pleased to meet with my old fellow-traveler, Charles Delamotte, here. He gave me an invitation to lodge at his house, which I willingly accepted of. He seemed to be just the same as when we lodged together, five-and-forty years ago. Only he complained of the infirmities of old age, which, through the mercy of God, I know nothing of.

Hence I went by Hull, Beverley, Bridlington; and then hastened to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, where I preached on Sunday, 26. Monday, 27. I set out for Scotland, and Wednesday, 29, reached Dunbar. The weather was exceeding rough and stormy. Yet we had a large and serious congregation.

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Finding the grounds were so flooded, that the common roads were not passable, we provided a guide to lead us a few miles round, by which means we came safe to Edinburgh.

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As I lodged with Lady Maxwell at Saughton-Hall, (a good old mansion-house, three miles from Edinburgh,) she desired me to give a short discourse to a few of her poor neighbors. I did so, at four in the afternoon, on the story of Dives and Lazarus. About seven I preached in our House at Edinburgh, and fully delivered my own soul. Saturday, JUNE l. I spent a little time with forty poor children, whom Lady Maxwell keeps at school. They are swiftly brought forward in reading and writing, and learn the principles of religion. But I observe in them all the ambitiosa paupertas.¹ Be they ever so poor, they must have a scrap of finery. Many of them have not a shoe to their foot: But the girl in rags is not without her ruffles.

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Mr. Collins intended to have preached on the Castle-hill, at twelve o’clock: But the dull Minister kept us in the kirk till past one. At six the House was well filled: And I did not shun to declare the whole counsel of God. I almost wonder at myself. I seldom speak anywhere so roughly as in Scotland. And yet most of the people hear and hear, and are just what they were before.

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I went on to Dundee. The congregation was large and attentive, as usual. But I found no increase, either of the society, or of the work of God. Tuesday, 4. The House at Arbroath was well filled with serious and attentive hearers. Only one or two pretty flutterers seemed inclined to laugh, if any would have encouraged them. Wednesday, 5. We set out early, but did not reach Aberdeen till between five and six in the evening. The congregations were large both morning and evening, and many of them much alive to God. Friday, 7. We received a pleasing account of the work of God in the north. The flame begins to kindle even at poor, dull Keith: But much more at a little town near Fraserburgh: And most of all at Newburgh, a small fishing town, fifteen miles from Aberdeen, where the society swiftly increases: And not only men and women, but a considerable number of children, are either rejoicing in God or panting after him.

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Editorial note: The supplied edition prints the heading “Sun. 8. —”. The independent 1872 Jackson edition, volume 4, reads “Sat. 8” (PDF page 238). The indexed weekday is Saturday, following that printed heading. The supplied heading and journal prose are retained. John Wesley, Works, Jackson edition (1872), volume 4, PDF page 238.

I walked with a friend to Mr. Lesley’s seat, less than a mile from the city. It is one of the pleasantest places of the kind I ever saw, either in Britain or Ireland. He has laid his gardens out on the side of a hill, which gives a fine prospect both of sea and land: And the variety is beyond what could be expected within so small a compass. But still Valeat possessor oportet,

Si comportatis rebue bene cogitat uti.

Unless a man have peace within, he can enjoy none of the things that are round about him.

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We had a lovely congregation in the morning, many of whom were athirst for full salvation. In the evening God sent forth his voice, yea, and that a mighty voice. I think few of the congregation were unmoved: And we never had a more solemn parting.

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We went to Arbroath; Tuesday, 11, to Dundee; and Wednesday, 12, to Edinburgh. We had such congregations both that evening and the next, as had not been only a week-day for many years: Some fruit of our labors here we have had already. Perhaps this is a token that we shall have more.

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We travelled through a pleasant country to Kelso, where we were cordially received by Dr. Douglas. I spoke strong words in the evening, concerning judgment to come: And some seemed to awake out of sleep. But how shall they keep awake, unless they “that fear the Lord speak often one to another?”

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As I was coming down stairs, the carpet slipped from under my feet, which, I know not how, turned me round, and pitched me back, with my head foremost, for six or seven stairs. It was impossible to recover myself till I came to the bottom. My head rebounded once or twice, from the edge of the stone stairs. But it felt to me exactly as if I had fallen on a cushion or a pillow. Dr. Douglas ran out, sufficiently affrighted. But he needed not. For I rose as well as ever; halving received no damage, but the loss of a little skin from one or two of my fingers. Doth not God give his angels charge over us, to keep us in all our ways? In the evening, and on Sunday, 16, I preached at Alnwick. Monday, 17. I preached at Rothbury in the Forest; formerly a nest of banditti; now as quiet a place as any in the county. About one I preached at Saugh-House, a lone house, twelve miles from Rothbury. Though it was sultry hot, the people flocked from all sides: And it was a season of refreshment to many. In the evening I went to Hexham, and preached near the old Priory, to an immense multitude. Very many were present again in the morning, and seemed to drink in every word that was spoken.

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After preaching about one at Prudhoe, I went to Newcastle. Wednesday, 19, and the following days, I examined the society. I found them increased in grace, though not in number. I think four in five, at least, were alive to God. To quicken them more, I divided all the classes anew, according to their places of abode. Another thing I observed, the congregations were larger, morning and evening, than any I have seen these twenty years.

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I preached about eight at Gateshead-Fell; about noon at Burnup-Field; and at the Garth-Heads in the evening. My strength was as my day. I was no more tired at night, than when I rose in the morning.

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I came to Darlington just in time; for a great stumbling-block had lately occurred. But my coming gave the people a newer thing to talk of. So I trust the new thing will soon be forgotten.

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I preached at Thirsk; Thursday, 27, at York. Friday, 28. I entered into my eightieth year; but, blessed be God, my time is not “labor and sorrow.” I find no more pain or bodily infirmities than at five-and-twenty. This I still impute,

1. To the power of God, fitting me for what he calls me to.

2. To my still travelling four or five thousand miles a year.

3. To my sleeping, night or day, whenever I want it.

4. To my rising at a set hour. And,

5. To my constant preaching, particularly in the morning.

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I went on to Leeds, and, after preaching, met the select society, consisting of about sixty members; most of whom can testify, that “the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth from all sin.”

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Coming to Sheffield, just at the time of the Quarterly Meeting, I preached on Acts 9:31: “Then had the churches rest —, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.” This is eminently fulfilled in all these parts; at Sheffield in particular.

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I found a serious, as well as a numerous, congregation at Nottingham. Thursday, 4. I preached at Derby. I trust the work of God will now prosper here also. All the jars of our brethren are at an end, and they strive together for the hope of the Gospel.

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I came to Birmingham, and preached once more in the old dreary preaching-house.

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I opened the new House at eight, and it contained the people well: But not in the evening; many were then constrained to go away. In the middle of the sermon, a huge noise was heard, caused by the breaking of a bench on which some people stood. None of them was hurt; yet it occasioned a general panic at first: But in a few minutes all was quiet.

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I read Prayers and preached in the church at Darlaston, and in the evening returned to Birmingham. Friday, 12. I walked through Mr. Bolton’s curious works. He has carried every thing which he takes in hand to a high degree of perfection, and employs in the house about five hundred men, women, and children. His gardens, running along the side of a hill, are delightful indeed; having a large piece of water at the bottom, in which are two well-wooded islands. If faith and love dwell here, then there may be happiness too. Otherwise all these beautiful things are as unsatisfactory as straws and feathers.

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I spent an hour in Hagley-Park; I suppose inferior to few, if any, in England. But we were straitened for time. To take a proper view of it, would require five or six hours. Afterwards I went to the Leasowes, a farm so called, four or five miles from Hagley. I never was so surprised. I have seen nothing in all England to be compared with it. It is beautiful and elegant all over. There is nothing grand, nothing costly; no temples, so called; no statues; (except two or three, which had better have been spared;) but such walks, such shades, such hills and dales, such lawns, such artless cascades, such waving woods, with water intermixed, as exceed all imagination! On the upper side, from the openings of a shady walk, is a most beautiful and extensive prospect. And all this is comprised in the compass of three miles! I doubt if it be exceeded by any thing in Europe.

The father of Mr. Shenstone was a gentleman-farmer, who bred him at the University, and left him a small estate. This he wholly laid out in improving the Leasowes, living in hopes of great preferment, grounded on the promises of many rich and great friends. But nothing was performed, till he died at forty-eight; probably of a broken heart!

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I heard a sermon in the old church, at Birmingham, which the Preacher uttered with great vehemence against these “harebrained, itinerant enthusiasts.” But he totally missed his mark; having not the least conception of the persons whom he undertook to describe.

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Leaving Birmingham early in the morning, I preached at nine in a large school-room at Coventry. About noon I preached to a multitude of people, in the brick-yard, at Bedworth. A few of them seemed to be much affected. In the evening I preached at Hinckley, one of the civilest towns I have seen.

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I went on to Leicester; Thursday, 18, to Northampton; and Friday, 19, to Hinxworth, in Hertfordshire. Adjoining to Miss Harvey’s house is a pleasant garden; and she has made a shady walk round the neighboring meadows. How gladly could I repose awhile here! But repose is not for me in this world. In the evening many of the villagers flocked together, so that her great hall was well filled. I would fain hope, some of them received the seed in good ground, and will bring forth fruit with patience.

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We reached London. All the following week the congregations were uncommonly large. Wednesday, 24. My brother and I paid our last visit to Lewisham, and spent a few pensive hours with the relict of our good friend, Mr. Blackwell. We took one more walk round the garden and meadow, which he took so much pains to improve. Upwards of forty years this has been my place of retirement, when I could spare two or three days from London. In that time, first Mrs. Sparrow went to rest; then Mrs. Dewall; then good Mrs. Blackwell; now Mr. Blackwell himself. Who can tell how soon we may follow them?

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I preached at West-Street, on the ministry of angels; and many were greatly refreshed in considering the office of those spirits that continually attend on the heirs of salvation.

Friday, August 2, we observed as a day of fasting and prayer for a blessing on the ensuing Conference; and I believe God clothed his word with power in an uncommon manner throughout the week; so that, were it only on this account the Preachers, who came from all parts, found their labor was not in vain.

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Being obliged to leave London a little sooner than I intended, I concluded the Conference today; and desired all our brethren to observe it as a day of solemn thanksgiving. At three in the afternoon I took coach. About one on Wednesday morning we were informed that three highwaymen were on the road before us, and had robbed all the coaches that had passed, some of them within an hour or two. I felt no uneasiness on the account, knowing that God would take care of us. And he did so; for, before we came to the spot, all the highwaymen were taken; so we went on unmolested, and early in the afternoon came safe to Bristol.

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I set out for the west; preached at Taunton in the evening; Friday noon, at Collumpton; and in the evening, at Exeter. Here poor Hugh Saunderson has pitched his standard, and declared open war. Part of the society have joined him; the rest go on their way quietly, to make their calling and election sure.

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I was much pleased with the decent behavior of the whole congregation at the cathedral; as also with the solemn music at the post-communion, one of the finest compositions I ever heard. The Bishop inviting me to dinner, I could not but observe,

1. The lovely situation of the palace, covered with trees, and as rural and retired as if it was quite in the country.

2. The plainness of the furniture, not costly or showy, but just fit for a Christian Bishop.

3. The dinner, sufficient, but not redundant; plain and good, but not delicate.

4. The propriety of the company, — five Clergymen and four of the Aldermen; and,

5. The genuine, unaffected courtesy of the Bishop, who, I hope, will be a blessing to his whole diocese.

We set out early in the morning, Monday, 19, and in the afternoon came to Plymouth. I preached in the evening, and at five and twelve on Tuesday, purposing to preach in the Square at the Dock in the evening; but the rain prevented. However, I did so on Wednesday evening. A little before I concluded, the Commanding Officer came into the Square with his regiment; but he immediately stopped the drums, and drew up all his men in order on the high side of the Square. They were all still as night; nor did any of them stir, till I had pronounced the blessing.

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I preached at St. Austle; Friday, 23, at Truro, and in the street at Helstone. Saturday, 24. I preached in Marazion, at eleven; in the evening, at Penzance.

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We prayed that God would “stay the bottles of heaven;” and he heard our prayer. I preached at Mousehole about nine, to a large congregation; to a larger at Buryan, about two: But that at St. Just in the evening exceeded both of them put together. After visiting the other societies, I came to the Redruth on Saturday, 31. I preached there in the evening, and at noon on Sunday, SEPTEMBER 1. Afterwards I expanded the Parable of the Sower at Gwennap, to how many thousands I know not. But all (I was informed) could hear distinctly. “This is the Lord’s doing.”

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I went on to Port-Isaac. Tuesday, 3. I preached in the street at Camelford. Being informed here, that my old friend, Mr. Thompson, Rector of St. Gennis, was near death, and had expressed a particular desire to see me, I judged no time was to be lost. So, borrowing the best horse I could find, I set out, and rode as fast as I could. On the way, I met with a white-headed old man, who caught me by the hand, and said, “Sir, do you not know me?” I answered, “No.” He said, “My father, my father! I am poor John Trembath.” I desired him to speak to me in the evening at Launceston; which he did. He was for some time reduced to extreme poverty, so as to hedge and ditch for bread; but in his distress he cried to God, who sent him an answer of peace. He likewise enabled him to cure a gentleman that was desperately ill, and afterward several others; so that he grew into reputation, and gained a competent livelihood. “And now,” said he, “I want for nothing; I am happier than ever I was in my life.” I found Mr. Thompson just alive, but quite sensible. It seemed to me as if none in the house but himself was very glad to see me. He had many doubts concerning his final state, and rather feared, than desired, to die; so that my whole business was to comfort him, and to increase and confirm his confidence in God. He desired me to administer the Lord’s Supper, which I willingly did; and I left him much happier than I found him, calmly waiting till his change should come.

NEWINGTON,

January 19, 1786.

AN EXTRACT

OF THE

REV. MR. JOHN WESLEY’S

JOURNAL

FROM SEPTEMBER 4, 1782 TO JUNE 28, 1786

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I preached in the market-house at Tiverton; Thursday, 5, at Halberton, Taunton, and South-Brent. Friday, 6. About ten I preached at Shipham, a little town on the side of Mendiff, almost wholly inhabited by miners, who dig up lapis calaminaris. I was surprised to see such a congregation at so short a warning; and their deep and serious attention seemed to be a presage, that some of them will profit by what they hear. In the afternoon we went on to Bristol.

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My brother read Prayers, and I preached to a very uncommon congregation. But a far more numerous one met near King’s Square in the evening, on whom I strongly enforced, “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Permit me to observe here, how you may distinguish a genuine small Field’s Bible from a spurious one: The genuine reads here, “Ye can serve God and mammon.” In the spurious, the “not” is supplied.

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About nine I preached at Paulton, where the flame is abated, but not quenched. The same is the case at Shepton-Mallet, where I preached in the evening. Tuesday, 10. I went on to the simple-hearted colliers, at Coleford, abundance of whom met at six in the evening, in a green meadow, which was delightfully gilded by the rays of the setting sun. Wednesday, 11. I preached to a large and serious congregation at the end of the preaching-house at Frome.

After preaching at Roade, Pensford, Trowbridge, and Freshford, on Friday, 13, I preached at Bath. Sunday, 15. I had a far greater number of communicants than usual. Both at this time, and in the afternoon and the evening service, we had no common blessing.

On Monday and Tuesday I preached at Chew-Magna, at Sutton, Stoke, and Clutton: In my way thither, I saw a famous monument of antiquity, at Stanton-Drew; supposed to have remained there between two and three thousand years. It was undoubtedly a Druid’s temple, consisting of a smaller and a larger circle of huge stones set on end, one would think by some power more than human. Indeed, such stones have been used for divine worship, nearly, if not quite, from the time of the flood. On the following days I preached at many other little places.

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After the service at Bristol, I hastened to Kingswood, and preached a funeral sermon on Jenny Hall; a lovely young woman, who died in full triumph, and desired a sermon might be preached on Revelation 7:13, and following verses.

On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday visited the classes; and was concerned to find, that, for these two last years, the society has been continually decreasing. Thursday, 26, and the following days, I visited the rest of the country societies. For a day or two I was not well, but I went on with my work till Sunday, when I preached morning and evening at the New Room, and in the afternoon in Temple church.

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I read among the letters, in the evening, the striking account of Robert Roe’s death; a burning and a shining light while alive, but early numbered with the dead. Saturday, 5. I visited several that are yet in the body, but longing to depart and to be with Christ. But many have this year stepped before them. For forty years I do not know that so many have, in the space of one year, been removed to Abraham’s bosom.

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I preached in Temple church, between our own morning and evening service; and I now found how to speak here, so as to be heard by every one: Direct your voice to the middle of the pillar fronting the pulpit.

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I left Bristol with much satisfaction, firmly believing that God will revive his work there. I preached at the Devizes about eleven; and in the evening at Sarum; Tuesday, 8, at Winchester, and at Portsmouth-Common. Wednesday, 9. We took a ferry for the Isle of Wight. There was sea enough, which now and then washed over our boat. However, in about an hour we landed safe, and walked on to Newport. This place seems now ripe for the Gospel: Opposition is at an end. Only let our Preachers be men of faith and love, and they will see the fruit of their labors.

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I returned to Portsmouth; took chaise at two the next morning, and in the afternoon came to London.

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I went to Wallingford. The House was filled in the evening with much-affected hearers. Shall all our labor here be in vain? Lord, thou knowest!

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About noon I preached at Oxford. I have seen no such prospect here for many years. The congregation was large and still as night, although many gentlemen were among them. The next evening the House would not contain the congregation; yet all were quiet, even those that could not come in: And I believe God not only opened their understandings, but began a good work in some of their hearts.

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I preached at Witney, one of the liveliest places in the Circuit, where I always find my own soul refreshed.

I saw such a garden at Oxford as I verily believe all England cannot parallel. It is three-square; and, I conjecture, contains about an acre of ground: It is filled with fruit-trees of various sorts, and all excellent in their kinds. But it is odd beyond all description; superlatively whimsical. The owner has crowded together pictures, statues, urns, antiques of various kinds: For all which why should not Mr. Badcock’s name, as well as Mr. Roberts’s, be consigned to posterity?

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I preached at Thame; this evening and the next, at High-Wycomb; and on Saturday, returned to London.

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I preached at Tunbridge-Wells; Tuesday, 22, at Sevenoaks.

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I visited the house of mourning at Shoreham, and read the strange account at first hand. Not long after his former wife died, Mr. H. paid his addresses to Miss B. He had been intimately acquainted with her for some years. By immense assiduity, and innumerable professions of the tenderest affection, he, by slow degrees, gained hers. The time of marriage was fixed: The ring was bought: The wedding clothes were sent to her. He came one Thursday, a few days before the wedding-day, and showed the most eager affection; so he did on Saturday. He came again on the Wednesday following, sat down very carelessly on a chair, and told her with great composure, that he did not love her at all, and therefore could not think of marrying her. He talked a full hour in the same strain, and then walked away!

Her brother sent a full account of this to Miss Perronet, who read it with perfect calmness, comforted her niece, and strongly exhorted her to continue steadfast in the faith. But the grief which did not outwardly appear, preyed the more upon her spirits, till, three or four days after, she felt a pain in her breast, lay down, and in four minutes died. One of the ventricles of her heart burst; so she literally died of a broken heart. When old Mr. Perronet heard that his favorite child, the stay of his old age, was dead, he broke into praise and thanksgiving to God, who had “taken another of his children out of this evil world!”

But Mr. H., meantime, has done nothing amiss. So both himself and his friends say!

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I returned to London, and was glad to find Mr. Edward Smyth and his family just come from Dublin. Sunday, 27. At ten I took coach; reached Norwich on Monday noon, and preached at six in the evening. I stayed there on Tuesday; and Wednesday, 30, went to Yarmouth, where were the largest congregations I had seen for many years. Thursday, 31. I went on to Lowestoft, which is, at present, far the most comfortable place in the whole circuit. Friday, NOVEMBER 1. Mr. Smyth and his wife gave us a strange account: — A little before they were married, her brother Samuel was about eight years old. One evening, as she was with Mr. Smyth, in one of the rows, at Yarmouth, both of them saw Samuel standing five or six yards off. She cried out, “Sammy, come hither; I want you;” but instantly he was gone. Just then he fell into the river. A large water-dog, which was on the bridge, directly leaped off, swam about and sought him, but could not find him. He then came out, and ran to his mother’s house howling; nor would he leave her till he was put out by force.

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About nine I preached at Cove, a village nine or ten miles from Lowestoft: The poor people presently filled the House, and seemed to devour every word. About one, I preached at London; and at Norwich in the evening.

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I administered the Lord’s Supper to about an hundred and forty communicants. I preached at half-past two, and again in the evening; after which I requested them to go away in silence, without any one speaking to another. They took my advice: They went away in profound silence so that no sound was heard but that of their feet.

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At five in the morning the congregation was exceeding large. That in the evening seemed so deeply affected, that I hope Norwich will again lift up its head. At nine we took coach; and before eleven, on Tuesday, 5, reached Colchester,

In order to strengthen this poor feeble society, I stayed with them till Friday, preaching morning and evening, and visiting in the day as many as I could, sick or well. I divided the classes anew, which had been strangely and irregularly jumbled together; appointed Stewards; regulated temporal as well as spiritual things; and left them in a better way than they had been for several years.

Monday, 11, and the following days, I visited the societies in and about London.

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I preached at St. Clement’s in the Strand, (the largest church I ever preached in at London, except, perhaps, St. Sepulchre’s,) to an immense congregation. I fully discharged my own soul, and afterwards took coach for Northamptonshire. On Monday, 25, I preached at Towcester; on Tuesday, at Whittlebury, so called; but the true name of the town is Whittle; on Wednesday, at Northampton; and on Thursday I returned to London. Friday, 29. I preached at Highgate, in the palace built in the last century by that wretched Duke of Lauderdale; now one of the most elegant boarding-houses in England. But, alas! it is not Publow!

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I preached at St. Neot’s, in Huntingdonshire; Tuesday, 3, at Bugden about one; and in the evening at Huntingdon. Two Clergymen were there, with one of whom I had much serious conversation.

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I preached with great enlargement of spirit, to my old congregation at Bedford. Thursday, 5. With some difficulty I crossed the country to Hinxworth, and preached to fifty or sixty plain people, who seemed very willing to learn. In the afternoon, it being impossible to drive a chaise straight round to Luton, I was obliged to go many miles about, and so did not reach it till after six o’clock; so I went direct to the preaching-house, and began without delay enforcing those solemn words, “Today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.”

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I could procure no other conveyance to St. Alban’s but in an open chaise; and hence, (the frost being very sharp,) I contracted a severe cold. Monday, 9. I had a better conveyance into Kent. In the evening I preached at Canterbury; on Tuesday at Dover; the next day at Canterbury again. On Thursday, 12, and on Friday morning, I preached at Chatham; and in the afternoon returned to London.

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I found the cold which I had contracted in the way to St. Alban’s exceedingly increased, having a deep and violent cough, which continued at intervals till spring.

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I retired to Hoxton for a few days. Thursday, 19. About eleven at night, a gun was fired at our chamber window, and at the same time a large stone thrown through it. (Probably in sport, by some that had been drinking.) I presently went to sleep again.

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I visited Mr. Maxfield, struck with a violent stroke of palsy. He was senseless, and seemed near death; but we besought God for him, and his spirit revived, I cannot but think, in answer to prayer. Sunday, 29. I buried the remains of Thomas Forfit, a rich, and yet a generous man. He was unwearied in well doing; and in a good old age, without any pain or struggle, fell asleep. Tuesday, 31. We concluded the year with a solemn watch-night.

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