1783

May I begin to live today! Sunday, 5. We met to renew our covenant with God. We never meet on this occasion without a blessing; but I do not know that we had ever so large a congregation before.

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I paid one more visit to Mr. Perronet, now in his ninetieth year. I do not know so venerable a man. His understanding is little, if at all, impaired; and his heart seems to be all love. A little longer I hope he will remain here, to be a blessing to all that see and hear him.

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I preached at St. Thomas’s church in the afternoon, and at St. Swithin’s in the evening. The tide is now turned; so that I have more invitations to preach in churches than I can accept of.

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I drank tea at Mr. A——’s, in the Maze-pond, Southwark; but both Mr. A—— and his wife informed me they were determined to quit the house as soon as possible, by reason of strange noises, which they heard day and night, but in the night chiefly, as if all the tables and chairs had been thrown up and down, in the rooms above and under them.

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Mr. Maxfield continuing ill, I preached this afternoon at his chapel. Prejudice seems now dying away: God grant it may never revive!

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I buried the remains of Sarah Clay, many years a mother in Israel; the last of those holy women, who, being filled with love, forty years ago devoted themselves wholly to God, to spend and be spent in his service.

Her death was like her life, calm and easy. She was dressing herself when she dropped down and fell asleep.

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I had an opportunity of attending the Lecture of that excellent man, Dr. Conyers. He was quite an original; his matter was very good, his manner very bad; but it is enough that God owned him, both in the conviction and conversion of sinners.

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I went to Dorking; and in the afternoon took a walk through the lovely gardens of Lord Grimstone. His father-in-law, who laid them out, is some time since numbered with the dead; and his son-in-law, living elsewhere, has not so much as the beholding them with his eyes!

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At our yearly meeting for that purpose, we examined our yearly accounts, and found the money received (just answering the expense) was upwards of three thousand pounds a year; but that is nothing to me: What I receive of it yearly, is neither more nor less than thirty pounds.

Today Charles Greenwood went to rest. He had been a melancholy man all his days, full of doubts and fears, and continually writing bitter things against himself. When he was first taken ill, he said he should die, and was miserable through fear of death; but two days before he died, the clouds dispersed, and he was unspeakably happy, telling his friends, “God has revealed to me things which it is impossible for man to utter.” Just when he died, such glory filled the room, that it seemed to be a little heaven; none could grieve or shed a tear, but all present appeared to be partakers of his joy.

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I buried the remains of Captain Cheesement, one who, some years since, from a plentiful fortune, was by a train of losses utterly ruined; but two or three friends enabling him to begin trade again, the tide turned; he prospered greatly, and riches flowed in on every side. A few years ago he married one equally agreeable in her person and temper. So what had he to do but enjoy himself? Accordingly, he left off business, took a large, handsome house, and furnished it in a most elegant manner. A little while after, showing his rooms to a friend, he said, “All this will give small comfort in a dying hour.” A few days after, he was taken with a fever. I saw him twice: He was sensible, but could not speak. In spite of all means, he grew worse and worse, and in about twelve days died. So within a few days we lost two of our richest, and two of our holiest, members, — Sarah Clay, and good old George Hufflet, who had been, for many years, a burning and a shining light. He lay fourteen weeks praising God continually, and had then a triumphant entrance into his kingdom.

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In the evening I took coach, and the next evening preached at Bath. Thursday, 6. I went on to Bristol, and found a family of love, so united as it had not been for some years. The next week I met the classes; and on Friday had a watch-night at Kingswood; but I was far from being well, the cold which I had caught in coming from Luton rather increasing than decreasing. Saturday, 15. I had a deep, tearing cough, and was exceeding heavy and weak. However, I made shift to preach at Weaver’s Hall, and to meet the penitents. Sunday, 16. I found myself considerably worse. However, I preached in the morning; but had such a fever in the afternoon, that I was obliged to take my bed. I now knew not what to do, having fixed the next morning for beginning my journey to Ireland, and sent notice to Stroud, Gloucester, and various other places, of the days wherein I purposed to visit them. But Mr. Collins kindly undertook to supply my place at Stroud, and the other places, as far as Worcester.

Lying down in bed, I took part (being able to swallow no more) of a draught which was prepared for me. It gave me four or five and twenty stools, and a moderate vomit; after which I fell fast asleep. Monday, 17. Mr. Collins set out. About six in the morning, finding myself perfectly easy, I set out in the afternoon, and overtook him at Stroud. But it was as much as I could do; for I was in a high fever, though without any pain. After giving a short exhortation to the society, I was very glad to lie down. My fever was exactly of the same kind with that I had in the north of Ireland. On Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, I was just the same: The whole nervous system was violently agitated. Hence arose the cramp, with little intermission, from the time I lay down in bed till morning: Also a furious, tearing cough, usually recurring before each fit of the cramp. And yet I had no pain in my back, or head, or limbs, the cramp only excepted. But I had no strength at all, being scarce able to move, and much less to think. In this state I lay till Friday morning, when a violent fit of the cramp carried the fever quite away. Perceiving this, I took chaise without delay, and reached Worcester in the afternoon. Here I overtook Mr. Collins again, who had supplied all my appointments, and with a remarkable blessing to the people. But being much exhausted, I found rest was sweet. Saturday, 22. In the morning I gave a short exhortation, and then went on to Birmingham.

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Finding still some remains of the fever, with a load and tightness across my breast, and a continual tendency to the cramp, I procured a friend to electrify me thoroughly, both through the legs and the breast, several times in the day. God so blessed this, that I had no more fever or cramp, and no more load or tightness across my breast. In the evening I ventured to preach three quarters of an hour, and found no ill effect at all.

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In the afternoon I reached Hilton-Park, about six miles north of Wolverhampton. Here I found my old acquaintance, Miss Freeman, (whom I had known almost from a child,) with Sir Philip Gibbes’s lady, and his two amiable daughters, in a lovely recess. With these I spent this evening and the next day, both profitably and agreeably.

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I crossed over the country to Hinckley, and preached in the evening, in the neat, elegant preaching-house. So I did, morning and evening, on the three following days, to a serious, well-behaved people. Here I met with Dr. Horne’s “Commentary on the Psalms:” I suppose the best that ever was wrote. Yet I could not comprehend his aggrandizing the Psalms, it seems even above the New Testament. And some of them he hardly makes anything of; the eighty-seventh in particular. Tues. April 1, etc. — I went through several of the societies till I reached Holyhead, on Friday, 11. We went on board without delay, and on Sunday morning, the 13th, landed at Dunleary; whence (not being able to procure a carriage) I walked on to Dublin.

Here I spent two or three weeks with much satisfaction, in my usual employments. Monday, 21. I spent an hour with Mr. Shelton; I think, full as extraordinary a man as Mr. Law; of full as rapid a genius; so that I had little to do but to hear; his words flowing as a river.

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Our little Conference began, and continued till Friday, MAY

2. All was peace and love; and I trust the same spirit will spread through the nation.

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I made a little excursion to a Nobleman’s seat, a few miles from Dublin. It may doubtless vie in elegance, if not in costliness, with any seat in Great Britain: But the miserable master of the whole has little satisfaction therein. God hath said, “Write this man childless:” For whom then does he heap up these things? He is himself growing old: — And must he leave this paradise? Then leave

These happy shades, and mansions fit for gods?

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There was an Ordination at St. Patrick’s. I admired the solemnity wherewith the Archbishop went through the Service. But the vacant faces of the ordained showed how little they were affected thereby. In the evening multitudes met to renew their covenant with God. But here was no vacant face to be seen; for God was in the midst, and manifested himself to many; particularly to a daughter of Goodwilliam Pennington.

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We prepared for going on board the packet; but as it delayed sailing, on Tuesday, 6, I waited on Lady Arabella Denny, at the Black Rock, four miles from Dublin. It is one of the pleasantest spots I ever saw. The garden is everything in miniature. On one side is a grove, with serpentine walks; on the other, a little meadow and a green-house, with a study (which she calls her chapel) hanging over the sea. Between these is a broad walk, leading down almost to the edge of the water; along which run two narrow walks, commanding the quay, one above the other. But it cannot be long before this excellent lady will remove to a nobler paradise. The unusually large congregation in the evening was plentifully watered with the dew of heaven. I found a particular concern for the children, many of whom willingly attended.

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The packet still delaying, I exhorted a large congregation, in the evening, to take care how they built their house upon the sand; and then cheerfully commended them to the grace of God.

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We rose at one, went down to the quay at two, and about four went on board the Hillsborough packet. About five the wind turned fair, and, between five and six in the evening, brought us to Holyhead. About seven we took coach, and the next evening met our friends at Chester.

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About eight I preached at Preston-in-the-Hill; about twelve, in Warlington, and in the evening, at Liverpool. Here the scandal of the cross seems to be ceased, and we are grown honorable men. Thursday, 15. I preached about noon at Wigan, and in the evening at Bolton, to a people much alive to God. Saturday, 17. I went on to Manchester. Sunday, 18. Mr. Bayley came very opportunely to assist me in the Morning Service. Such a sight, I believe, was never seen at Manchester before. It was supposed there were thirteen or fourteen hundred communicants, among whom there was such a spirit as I have seldom found; and their whole behavior was such as adorned the Gospel.

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I met the select society, consisting of between forty and fifty members. Several of these were lately made partakers of the great salvation; as several were above twenty years ago. I believe there is no place but London, where we have so many souls so deeply devoted to God; and his hand is not shortened yet, but his work rapidly increases on every side.

About noon I preached at Stockport; and in the afternoon, in the new church at Macclesfield. This society seems as lively as even that at Manchester, and increases nearly as fast. Not a week passes wherein some are not justified, and some renewed in love. Wednesday, 21. I met a few of these, and found them indeed

All praise, all meekness, and all love.

In the evening I exhorted them all to expect pardon or holiness today, not tomorrow. O let their love never grow cold!

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I set out for Derby; but the smith had so effectually lamed one of my horses, that many told me he would never be able to travel more. I thought, “Even this may be made matter of prayer;” and set out cheerfully. The horse, instead of growing worse and worse, went better and better; and in the afternoon (after I had preached at Leek by the way) brought me safe to Derby.

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Being desired to marry two of our friends at Buxton, two-and-thirty miles from Derby, I took chaise at three, and came thither about eight. I found notice had been given of my preaching in the church; and the Minister desired me to read Prayers. By this means I could not leave Buxton till eleven, nor reach Nottingham till after seven; whereas I was to have preached at six. But Mr. Brackenbury came to town just in time to supply my place.

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I had an easy day’s work, as Mr. Bayley assisted me, by reading Prayers, and delivering the wine at the Lord’s Table.

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I preached at Loughborough in the morning, and at Mountsorrel at one. While I was preaching, the rain, which was so wanted, began, and continued for eight-and-forty hours. In the evening I preached at Leicester, where I always feel much liberty, and yet see but little fruit. After preaching at Northampton, Bedford, and Hinxworth, on Saturday, 31, I returned to London.

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I was refreshed by the very sight of the congregation at the new chapel. Monday, 2, and the following days, I employed in settling my business, and preparing for my little excursion. Wednesday, 11. I took coach with Mr. Brackenbury, Broadbent, and Whitfield; and in the evening we reached Harwich. I went immediately to Dr. Jones, who received me in the most affectionate manner. About nine in the morning we sailed; and at nine on Friday, 13, landed at Helvoetsluys. Here we hired a coach for Briel, but were forced to hire a wagon also, to carry a box which one of us could have carried on his shoulders. At Briel we took a boat to Rotterdam. We had not been long there, when Mr. Bennet, a bookseller, who had invited me to his house, called upon me. But as Mr. Loyal, the Minister of the Scotch congregation, had invited me, he gave up his claim, and went with us to Mr. Loyal’s. I found a friendly, sensible, hospitable, and, I am persuaded, a pious man. We took a walk together round the town, all as clean as a gentleman’s parlor. Many of the houses are as high as those in the main street at Edinburgh; and the canals, running through the chief streets, make them convenient, as well as pleasant; bringing the merchants’ goods up to their doors. Stately trees grow on all their banks. The whole town is encompassed with a double row of elms; so that one may walk all round it in the shade.

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I had much conversation with the two English Ministers, sensible, well-bred, serious men. These, as well as Mr. Loyal, were very willing I should preach in their churches; but they thought it would be best for me to preach in the Episcopal church. By our conversing freely together, many prejudices were removed, and all our hearts seemed to be united together.

In the evening we again took a walk round the town, and I observed,

1. Many of the houses are higher than most in Edinburgh. It is true they have not so many stories; but each story is far loftier.

2. The streets, the outside and inside of their houses in every part, doors, windows, well-staircases, furniture, even floors, are kept so nicely clean that you cannot find a speck of dirt.

3. There is such a grandeur and elegance in the fronts of the large houses, as I never saw elsewhere; and such a profusion of marble within, particularly in their lower floors and staircases, as I wonder other nations do not imitate.

4. The women and children (which I least of all expected) were in general the most beautiful I ever saw. They were surprisingly fair, and had an inexpressible air of innocence in their countenance.

5. This was wonderfully set off by their dress, which was simplex munditiis, plain and neat in the highest degree.

6. It has lately been observed, that growing vegetables greatly resist putridity; so there is an use in their numerous rows of trees which was not thought of at first.

The elms balance the canals, preventing the putrefaction which those otherwise might produce.

One little circumstance I observed, which I suppose is peculiar to Holland: To most chamber-windows a looking-glass is placed on the outside of the sash, so as to show the whole street, with all the passengers. There is something very pleasing in these moving pictures. Are they found in no other country?

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The Episcopal church is not quite so large as the chapel in West-Street. It is very elegant both without and within. The Service began at half-past nine. Such a congregation had not often been there before. I preached on, “God created man in his own image.” The people seemed, “all but their attention, dead.” In the afternoon the church was so filled as (they informed me) it had not been for these fifty years. I preached on, “God hath given us eternal life; and this life is in his Son.” I believe God applied it to many hearts. Were it only for this hour, I am glad I came to Holland.

One thing which I peculiarly observed was this, and the same in all the churches in Holland: At coming in, no one looks on the right or the left hand, or bows or courtesies to any one; but all go straightforward to their seats, as if no other person was in the place. During the service none turns his head on either side, or looks at anything but his book or the Minister; and in going out, none takes notice of any one, but all go straight forward till they are in the open air.

After church an English gentleman invited me to his country-house, not half a mile from the town. I scarce ever saw so pretty a place. The garden before the house was in three partitions, each quite different from the others. The house lay between this and another garden, (nothing like any of the others,) from which you looked through a beautiful summer-house, washed by a small stream, into rich pastures filled with cattle. We sat under an arbor of stately trees, between the front and the back gardens. Here were four such children (I suppose seven, six, five, and three years old) as I never saw before in one family: Such inexpressible beauty and innocence shone together!

In the evening I attended the service of the great Dutch church, as large as most of our cathedrals. The organ (like those in all the Dutch churches) was elegantly painted and gilded; and the tunes that were sung were very lively, and yet solemn.

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We set out in a track-skuit for the Hague. By the way we saw a curiosity: The gallows near the canal, surrounded with a knot of beautiful trees! So the dying man will have one pleasant prospect here, whatever befalls him hereafter! At eleven we came to Delft, a large, handsome town, where we spent an hour at a merchant’s house, who, as well as his wife, a very agreeable woman, seemed both to fear and to love God. Afterwards we saw the great church; I think nearly, if not quite, as long as York Minster. It is exceedingly light and elegant within, and every part is kept exquisitely clean. The tomb of William the First is much admired; particularly his statue, which has more life than one would think could be expressed in brass.

When we came to the Hague, though we had heard much of it, we were not disappointed. It is, indeed, beautiful beyond expression. Many of the houses are exceeding grand, and are finely intermixed with water and wood; yet not too close, but so as to be sufficiently ventilated by the air. Being invited to tea by Madam de Vassenaar, (one of the first quality in the Hague,) I waited upon her in the afternoon. She received us with that easy openness and affability which is almost peculiar to Christians and persons of quality. Soon after came ten or twelve ladies more, who seemed to be of her own rank, (though dressed quite plain,) and two most agreeable gentlemen; one of whom, I afterwards understood, was a Colonel in the Prince’s Guards. After tea I expounded the three first verses of the thirteenth of the first Epistle to the Corinthians. Captain M. interpreted, sentence by sentence. I then prayed, and Colonel V. after me. I believe this hour was well employed.

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As we walked over the Place we saw the Swiss Guards at their exercise. They are a fine body of men, taller, I suppose, than any English regiment; and they all wear large whiskers, which they take care to keep as black as their boots. Afterwards we saw the gardens at the Old Palace, beautifully laid out, with a large piece of water in the middle, and a canal at each end: The open walks in it are pleasant, but the shady serpentine walks are far pleasanter.

We dined at Mrs. L——’s, in such a family as I have seldom seen. Her mother, upwards of seventy, seemed to be continually rejoicing in God her Savior: The daughter breathes the same spirit; and her grandchildren, three little girls and a boy, seem to be all love. I have not seen four such children together in all England. A gentleman coming in after dinner, I found a particular desire to pray for him. In a little while he melted into tears, as indeed did most of the company. Wednesday, 18. In the afternoon Madam de Vassenaar invited us to a meeting at a neighboring lady’s house. I expounded Galatians 6:14, and Mr. M. interpreted as before.

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We took boat at seven. Mrs. L. and one of her relations, being unwilling to part so soon, bore us company to Leyden; a large and populous town, but not so pleasant as Rotterdam. In the afternoon we went on to Haerlem, where a plain, good man and his wife received us in a most affectionate manner. At six we took boat again. As it was filled from end to end, I was afraid we should not have a very pleasant journey. After Mr. Ferguson had told the people who we were, we made a slight excuse, and sung an hymn. They were all attention. We then talked a little, by means of our interpreter, and desired that any of them who pleased would sing. Four persons did so; and sung well. After a while we sung again: So did one or two of them; and all our hearts were strangely knit together, so that when we came to Amsterdam they dismissed us with abundance of blessings.

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We breakfasted at Mr. Ferguson’s, near the heart of the city. At eleven we drank coffee (the custom in Holland) at Mr. J——’s, a merchant, whose dining-room is covered, both walls and ceiling, with the most beautiful paintings. He and his lady walked with us in the afternoon to the Stadt-House; perhaps the grandest buildings of the kind in Europe. The great hall is a noble room indeed, near as large as that of Christ Church in Oxford. But I have neither time nor inclination to describe particularly this amazing structure.

At five in the evening we drank tea at another merchant’s, Mr. G——’s, where I had a long conversation with Mr. de H.; one of the most learned as well as popular Ministers in the city; and (I believe, what is far more important) he is truly alive to God. He spoke Latin well, and seemed to be one of a strong understanding, as well as of an excellent spirit. In returning to our inn, we called at a stationer’s; and though we spent but a few minutes, it was enough to convince us of his strong affection, even to strangers. What a change does the grace of God make in the heart! Shyness and stiffness are now no more!

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We breakfasted with a very extraordinary woman, who lamented that she could not talk to us but by an interpreter. However, she made us understand, that she had a little child some years since, three or four years old, that was praying continually: That one morning, having just dressed her, she said, “Will you go kiss your sister?” She said, “Yes, mamma; and I will kiss you too;” and threw her arms about her mother’s neck; who said, “My dear, where will you go now?” She said, “I will go to Jesus;” and died.

At eleven I spent an hour with a woman of large fortune, who appeared to be as much devoted to God as her. We were immediately as well acquainted with each other, as if we had known each other for many years. But indeed an easy good-breeding (such as I never expected to see here) runs through all the gentler people of Amsterdam. And there is such a child-like simplicity in all that love God, as does honor to the religion they profess.

About two we called upon Mr. V——n, and immediately fell into close conversation. There seems to be in him a peculiar softness and sweetness of temper; and a peculiar liveliness in Mrs. V——n. Our loving dispute, concerning deliverance from sin, was concluded within an hour: And we parted, if that could be, better friends than we met. Afterwards we walked to Mr. J——’s house in the Plantations, a large tract of ground, laid out in shady walks. These lie within the city walls: But there are other walks, equally pleasant, without the gates. Indeed nothing is wanting but the power of religion, to make Amsterdam a paradise.

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I went to the new church, so called still, though four or five hundred years old. It is larger, higher, and better illuminated, than most of our cathedrals. The screen that divides the church from the choir is of polished brass, and shines like gold. I understood the Psalms that were sung, and the text well, and a little of the sermon; which Mr. de H. delivered with great earnestness. At two I began the Service at the English church, an elegant building, about the size of West-Street chapel. Only it has no galleries; nor have any of the churches in Holland. I preached on Isaiah 55:6, 7; and I am persuaded many received the truth in the love thereof.

After service I spent another hour at Mr. V——’s. Mrs. V—— again asked me abundance of questions, concerning deliverance from sin; and seemed a good deal better satisfied, with regard to the great and precious promises. Thence we went to Mr. B., who had lately found peace with God. He was full of faith and love, and could hardly mention the goodness of God without tears. His wife appeared to be exactly of the same spirit, so that our hearts were soon knit together. From thence we went to another family, where a large company were assembled. But all seemed open to receive instructions, and desirous to be altogether Christians. After dinner Mrs. J—— took me in a coach to the Mere, and thence round the country to Zeeburg. I never saw such a country before: I suppose there is no such summer country in Europe. From Amsterdam to Mere is all a train of the most delightful gardens. Turning upon the left, you then open upon the Texel, which spreads into a sea. Zeeburg itself is a little house built on the edge of it, which commands both a land and sea prospect. What is wanting to make the inhabitants happy, but the knowledge and love of God?

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We took a view of the new Workhouse, which stands on one side of the Plantations. It much resembles Shoreditch Workhouse: Only it is considerably larger. And the front of it is so richly ornamented, that it looks like a royal palace

About four hundred are now in the house, which is to receive four hundred more: Just half as many as are in the Poor-house at Dublin, which now contains sixteen hundred. We saw many of the poor people, all at work, knitting, spinning, picking work, or weaving. And the women in one room were all sewing, either fine or plain work. Many of these had been women of the town: For this is a Bridewell and Workhouse in one. The head keeper was stalking to and fro, with a large silver-hilted sword by his side. The bed-chambers were exceeding neat: The beds are better or worse as are those that use them. We saw both the men in one long room, and the women in another, at dinner. In both rooms they sung a Psalm and prayed, before and after dinner. I cannot but think the managers in Amsterdam wiser than those in Dublin: For certainly a little of the form of religion is better than none at all!

Afterwards we spent an hour at Mrs. V——’s, a very extraordinary woman. Both from her past and present experience, I can have no doubt but she is perfected in love. She said, “I was born at Surinam; and came from thence when I was about ten years old. But when I came hither, my guardian would not let me have my fortune, unless I would go back to Surinam. However, I got acquainted with some pious people, and made shift to live, till I was about sixteen: I then embarked for Surinam; but a storm drove us to the coast of England, where the ship was stranded. I was in great distress, fearing I had done wrong in leaving the pious people: But just then God revealed himself to my soul. I was filled with joy unspeakable; and boldly assured the people, who despaired of life, that God would preserve them all. And so he did: We got on shore at Devon; but we lost all that we had.

“After a time I returned to Amsterdam, and lived four years in service: Then I married. Seven years after, it pleased God to work a deeper work in my heart: Since then I have given myself wholly to Him. I desire nothing else. Jesus is my All. I am always pleased with his will: So I was, even when my husband died. I had not one discontented thought; I was still happy in God.”

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We took boat for Haerlem. The great church here is a noble structure, equaled by few cathedrals in England, either in length, breadth, or height: the organ is the largest I ever saw and is said to be the finest in Europe. Hence we went to Mr. Van Ka——’s, whose wife was convinced of sin and justified by reading Mr. Whitefield’s Sermons. Here we were as at home. Before dinner we took a walk in Haerlem Wood. It adjoins to the town, and is cut out in many shady walks; with lovely vistas shooting out every way. The walk from the Hague to Scheveling is pleasant; those near Arnsterdam more so; but these exceed them all. We returned in the afternoon to Amsterdam; and in the evening took leave of as many of our friends as we could. How entirely were we mistaken in the Hollanders, supposing them to be of a cold, phlegmatic, unfriendly temper! I have not met with a more warmly affectionate people in all Europe! No, not in Ireland!

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Our friends having largely provided us with wine and fruits for our little journey, we took boat in a lovely morning for Utrecht, with Mr. V——’s sister, who in the way gave us a striking account: “In that house,” said she (pointing to it as we went by,) “my husband and I lived; and that church adjoining to it was his church. Five years ago, we were sitting together, being in perfect health, when he dropped down, and in a quarter of an hour died: I lifted up my heart and said, ‘Lord, thou art my husband now;’ and found no will but his.” This was a trial worthy of a Christian: And she has ever since made her word good. We were scarce got to our inn at Utrecht, when Miss L—— came. I found her just such as I expected. She came on purpose from her father’s country-house, where all the family were. I observe of all the pious people in Holland, that, without any rule but the word of God, they dress as plain as Miss March did formerly, and Miss Johnson does now! And considering the vast disadvantage they are under, having no connection with each other, and being under no such discipline at all as we are, I wonder at the grace of God that is in them!

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I walked over to Mr. L——’s country-house, about three miles from the city. It is a lovely place, surrounded with delightful gardens, laid out with wonderful variety. Mr. L—— is of an easy genteel behavior, speaks Latin correctly, and is no stranger to philosophy. Mrs. L—— is the picture of friendliness and hospitality; and young Mr. L—— seems to be cast in the same mold. We spent a few hours very agreeably. Then Mr. L—— would send me back in his coach.

Being sick of inns, (our bill at Amsterdam alone amounting to near a hundred florins,) I willingly accepted of an invitation to lodge with the sons-in-law of James Oddie.

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We went over to Zeist, the settlement of the German Brethren. It is a small village, finely situated, with woods on every side, and much resembles one of the large Colleges in Oxford. Here I met with my old friend Bishop Antone, whom I had not seen for near fifty years. He did not ask me to eat or drink; for it is not their custom, and there is an inn; but they were all very courteous; and we were welcome to buy any thing that we pleased at their shops! I cannot see how it is possible for this community to avoid growing immensely rich.

I have this day lived fourscore years; and, by the mercy of God, my eyes are not waxed dim: And what little strength of body or mind I had thirty years since, just the same I have now. God grant I may never live to be useless! Rather may I

My body with my charge lay down,

And cease at once to work and live.

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At ten I began the service in the English church in Utrecht. I believe all the English in the city were present, and forty or fifty Hollanders. I preached on 1 Corinthians 13.; I think, as searchingly as ever in my life. Afterwards a merchant invited me to dinner: For six years he had been at death’s door by an asthma, and was extremely ill last night; but this morning, without any visible cause, he was well, and walked across the city to the church. He seemed to be deeply acquainted with religion, and made me promise, if I came to Utrecht again, to make his house my home.

In the evening a large company of us met at Miss L.’s, where I was desired to repeat the substance of my morning sermon. I did so: Mr. Toydemea (the Professor of Law in the University) interpreting it sentence by sentence. They then sung a Dutch hymn; and we an English one. Afterwards Mr. Regglet, a venerable old man, spent some time in prayer, for the establishment of peace and love between the two nations. Utrecht has much the look of an English town. The streets are broad, and have many noble houses. In quietness and stillness it much resembles Oxford. The country all round is like a garden: And the people I conversed with are not only civil and hospitable, but friendly and affectionate, even as those at Amsterdam.

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We hired a coach for Rotterdam, at half-a-crown per head. We dined at Gouda, at M. Van Flooten’s, Minister of the town, who received us with all possible kindness. Before dinner we went into the church, famous for its painted windows; but we had not time to survey a tenth part of them: We could only observe, in general, that the colors were exceeding lively, and the figures exactly proportioned. In the evening we reached once more the hospitable house of Mr. Loyal, at Rotterdam.

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I called on as many as I could of my friends, and we parted with much affection. We then hired a yacht, which brought us to Helvoetsluys, about eleven the next day. At two we went on board; but the wind turning against us, we did not reach Harwich till about nine on Friday morning. After a little rest we procured a carriage, and reached London about eleven at night.

I can by no means regret either the trouble or expense which attended this little journey. It opened me a way into, as it were, a new world; where the land, the buildings, the people, the customs, were all such as I had never seen before. But as those with whom I conversed were of the same spirit with my friends in England, I was as much at home in Utrecht and Amsterdam, as in Bristol and London.

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We rejoiced to meet once more with our English friends in the new chapel; who were refreshed with the account of the gracious work which God is working in Holland also.

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I spent a melancholy hour with Mr. M. and several others, who charged him with speaking grievous things of me, which he then knew to be utterly false. If he acknowledges his fault, I believe he will recover; if not, his sickness is unto death.

These four days, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, were as hot as the midsummer days in Jamaica. The summer heat in Jamaica usually raises the thermometer to about eighty degrees. The quicksilver in my thermometer now rose to eighty-two.

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I took a little journey into Oxfordshire, and found the good effects of the late storms. The thunder had been uncommonly dreadful; and the lightning had tore up a field near High-Wycomb, and turned the potatoes into ashes. In the evening I preached in the new preaching-house at Oxford, a lithesome, cheerful place, and well filled with rich and poor, scholars as well as townsmen. Tuesday, 15. Walking through the city, I observed it swiftly improving in everything but religion. Observing narrowly the Hall at Christ-Church, I was convinced it is both loftier and larger than that of the Stadt–House in Amsterdam. I observed also, the gardens and walks in Holland, although extremely pleasant, were not to be compared with St. John’s, or Trinity gardens; much less with the parks, Magdalen water-walks, etc., Christ-Church meadow, or the White-walk.

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I went on to Witney. There were uncommon thunder and lightning here last Thursday; but nothing to that which were there on Friday night. About ten the storm was just overthrown; and both the bursts of thunder and lightning, or rather sheets of flame, were without intermission. Those that were asleep in the town were waked, and many thought the day of judgment was come. Men, women, and children, flocked out of their houses, and kneeled down together in the streets. With the flames, the grace of God came down also in a manner never known before; and as the impression was general, so it was lasting: It did not pass away with the storm; but the spirit of seriousness, with that of grace and supplication, continued. A prayer-meeting being appointed on Saturday evening, the people flocked together; so that the preaching-house was more than filled; and many were constrained to stand without the door and windows. On Sunday morning, before the usual time of Service, the church was quite filled. Such a sight was never seen in that church before. The Rector himself was greatly moved, and delivered a pressing, close sermon, with uncommon earnestness. When I came on Wednesday, the same seriousness remained on the generality of the people. I preached in the evening at Wood-Green, where a multitude flocked together, on the Son of man coming in his glory. The word fell heavy upon them, and many of their hearts were as melting wax. Thursday, 17. At five they were still so eager to hear, that the preaching-house would not near contain the congregation. After preaching, four-and-thirty persons desired admission into the society; every one of whom was (for the present, at least) under very serious impressions: And most of them, there is reason to hope, will bring forth fruit with patience. In the evening I preached to a lovely congregation, at Stroud; and on Tuesday afternoon came to Bristol. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I spent at Bath. Thursday, 24. I went with a few friends to Blase-Castle. The woods on the side of the hill, cut through various directions, are the pleasantest I ever saw, little inferior to the Leasowes; and, by the beautiful prospects, far superior to Stow gardens. Afterwards we took a view of Lord Clifford’s woods, at King’s Weston. They are amazingly beautiful: I have seen nothing equal to them in the west of England, and very few in any other parts. In the evening I read to the congregation an account of our brethren in Holland, and many Thanksgivings were rendered to God on their account.

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Our Conference began, at which two important points were considered: First, the case of Birstal House; and, Secondly, the state of Kingswood School. With regard to the former, our brethren earnestly desired that I would go to Birstal myself, believing this would be the most effectual way of bringing the Trustees to reason. With regard to the latter, we all agreed, that either the School should cease, or the Rules of it be punctually observed: Particularly, that the children should never play; and that a master should be always present with them.

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Early in the morning I was seized with a most impetuous flux. In a few hours it was joined by a violent and almost continual cramp; first, in my feet, legs, thighs; then, in my side and my throat. The case being judged extreme, a grain and a half of opium was given me in three doses: This speedily stopped the cramp; but, at the same time, took away my speech, hearing, and power of motion; and locked me up from head to foot; so that I lay a mere log. I then sent for Dr. Drummond, who from that time attended me twice a day. For some days I was worse and worse; till, on Friday, I was removed to Mr. Castleman’s. Still my head was not affected, and I had no pain, although in a continual fever. But I continued slowly to recover, so that I could read or write an hour or two at a time. On Wednesday, 13, I took a vomit, which almost shook me to pieces; but, however, did me good. Sunday, 17, and all the following week, my fever gradually abated; but I had a continual thirst, and little or no increase of strength: Nevertheless, being unwilling to be idle, on Saturday, 23, I spent an hour with the penitents; and, finding myself no worse, on Sunday, 24, I preached at the new Room, morning and afternoon. Finding my strength was now in some measure restored, I determined to delay no longer; but setting out on Monday, 25, reached Gloucester in the afternoon: In the evening I preached in the Town-Hall; I believe, not in vain. Tuesday, 26. I went on to Worcester, where many young people are just setting out in the ways of God. I joined fifteen of them this afternoon to the society; all of them, I believe, athirst for salvation. Wednesday, 27. I preached at Birmingham, and had a comfortable season. Thursday, 28. I paid another visit to the amiable family at Hilton-Hall. Friday, 29. About ten I preached for the first time at Stafford, to a large and deeply attentive congregation. It is now the day of small things here; but the grain of mustard-seed may grow up into a great tree.

Hence I rode to Congleton. I had received abundance of complaints against the Assistant of this Circuit, — James Rogers. Saturday, 30. I heard all the parties face to face, and encouraged them all to speak their whole mind. I was surprised; so much prejudice, anger, and bitterness, on so slight occasions, I never saw. However, after they had had it out, they were much softened, if not quite reconciled. Sunday, 31. I preached in the new church at Macclesfield, both morning and afternoon. I believe we had seven hundred communicants.

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We clambered over the mountains to Buxton. In the afternoon I preached in Fairfield church, about half a mile from the town; it was thoroughly filled with serious and attentive hearers. Tuesday,

2. We went to Leeds, where I was glad to find several Preachers.

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I consulted the Preachers, how it was best to proceed with the Trustees of Birstal House, to prevail upon them to settle it on the Methodist plan. They all advised me to begin by preaching there. Accordingly, I preached on Thursday evening, and met the society. I preached again in the morning. Friday, 5. About nine I met the nineteen Trustees; and, after exhorting them to peace and love, said, “All that I desire is, that this House may be settled on the Methodist plan; and the same clause may be inserted in your Deed which is inserted in the Deed of the new chapel in London; viz., ‘In case the doctrine or practice of any Preacher should, in the opinion of the major part of the Trustees, be not conformable to Mr. W——’s Sermons and Notes on the New Testament, on representing this, another Preacher shall be sent within three months.’” Five of the Trustees were willing to accept of our first proposals; the rest were not willing.

Although I could not obtain the end proposed; and, in that respect, had only my labor for my pains; yet I do not at all repent, of my journey: I have done my part; let others bear their own burden. Going back nearly the same way I came, on Saturday, 13, I reached Bristol. I had likewise good reward for my labor, in the recovery of my health, by a journey of five or six hundred miles.

On Wednesday, 17, and the two following days, I visited several of the country societies; and found most of them, not only increasing in number, but in the knowledge and love of God.

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Observing the deep poverty of many of our brethren, I determined to do what I could for their relief. I spoke severally to some that were in good circumstances, and received about forty pounds. Next I inquired who were in the most pressing want, and visited them at their own houses. I was surprised to find no murmuring spirits among them, but many that were truly happy in God; and all of them appeared to be exceeding thankful for the scanty relief which they received.

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It being a fair day, I snatched the opportunity of preaching abroad to twice or thrice as many as the Room would have contained.

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I preached at Bath, to such a congregation as I have not seen there of a long season. All my leisure hours this week I employed in visiting the remaining poor, and in begging for them. Having collected about fifty pounds more, I was enabled to relieve most of those that were in pressing distress.

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Leaving the society in a more prosperous way than it had been for several years, I preached in the Devizes about noon, and at Sarum in the evening. Captain Webb lately kindled a flame here, and it is not yet gone out. Several persons were still rejoicing in God; and the people in general were much quickened. Tuesday, 7. I found his preaching in the street at Winchester had been blessed greatly. Many were more or less convinced of sin, and several had found peace with God. I never saw the preaching-house so crowded before with serious and attentive hearers. So was that at Portsmouth also.

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We took a ferry for the Isle of Wight. Before we were half over, the sea rose, and the water washed over us. However, we got safe to Watton-Bridge, and then walked on to Newport. There is much life among the people here; and they walk worthy of their profession.,

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I went to Newtown, (two miles from Newport,) supposed to be the oldest town in the isle; but its glory is past! The church lies in ruins, and the town has scarce six houses remaining. However, the preaching-house was thoroughly filled; and the people appeared to be all of one rank; none rich and none extremely poor; but all were extremely serious and attentive.

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I crossed over to Southampton; and found two or three there also who feared and loved God. Then I went to Winchester, and had the pleasure of dining with Mr. Lowth, and supping with Mrs. Blackwell. Her six lovely children are in admirable order; it is a pleasure to see them. A Clergyman having offered me his church, I purposed beginning at five; but the key was not to be found; so I made a virtue of necessity, and preached near the Cross-Street; probably to double the congregation which would have been in the church.

Many of the Dutch prisoners remaining here, I paid them a short visit. When they were brought hither first, one of them prayed with as many as desired it, and gave them a word of exhortation. Presently one found peace with God, and joined him in that labor of love. These increased, so that they have now five exhorters: Many are justified, and many more convinced of sin. About two hundred of them were met together when I came: They first sung a hymn in their own language; I then gave them a short exhortation in English, for which they were extremely thankful.

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Just at twelve (the same hour as at Bristol) I was taken exceeding ill, and so continued till three. I then took chaise, as I had appointed, and was better and better every stage, and quite well when I came to London.

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I preached at Wallingford. Tuesday, 14. I went on to Oxford, and found both the congregation and society increased in zeal as well as in number. Wednesday, 15. I came to Witney. The flame which was kindled here by that providential storm of thunder and lightning, is not extinguished; but has continued ever since, with no discernible intermission. The preaching-house is still too small for the congregation.

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I preached at High-Wycomb; and on Friday returned to London.

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I took the diligence for Norwich, and preached there the next evening, to more than the House would contain; and both this night and the following, we sensibly felt that God was in the midst of us.

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I went to Yarmouth. Often this poor society had been well-nigh shattered in pieces; first, by Benjamin Worship, then a furious Calvinist, tearing away near half of them; next, by John Simpson turning Antinomian, and scattering most that were left. It has pleased God, contrary to all human probability, to raise a new society out of the dust; nay, and to give them courage to build a new preaching-house, which is well finished, and contains about five hundred persons. I opened it this evening; and as many as could get in, seemed to be deeply affected. Who knows but God is about to repair the waste places, and to gather a people that shall be scattered no more?

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We went to Lowestoft, where the people have stood firm from the beginning. Observing in the evening, that forty or fifty people were talking together, as soon as the service was over, (a miserable custom that prevails in most places of public worship, throughout England and Ireland,) I strongly warned the congregation against it; as I had done those at Norwich and Yarmouth. They received it in love; and the next evening, all went silently away. But this warning must be given again and again in every place, or it will not be effectual.

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I preached in Lowestoft at five; at eight to an earnest, lively people at Cove; and at one to a more numerous, but not more lively, congregation at London. The most numerous was that at Norwich in the evening, many of whom were truly alive to God.

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I gave the sacrament at seven; at nine I preached at Bear-Street, where I am in hopes considerable goodwill be done. The most serious congregation in our House we had at two; but the most numerous at six; though not above half of those that came could get in. Those that could hear, did not lose their labor; for God “satisfied the hungry with good things.”

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I talked at large with M. F. Such a case I have not known before. She has been in the society nearly from the beginning. She found peace with God five-and-thirty years ago; and the pure love of God a few years after. Above twenty years she has been a Class and a Band Leader, and of very eminent use. Ten months since she was accused of drunkenness, and of revealing the secret of her friend. Being informed of this, I wrote to Norwich, (as I then believed the charge,) that she must be no longer a Leader, either of a band or a class. The Preacher told her further, that, in his judgment, she was unfit to be a member of the society. Upon this she gave up her ticket, together with the band and her class papers. Immediately all her friends (of whom she seemed to have a large number) forsook her at once. No one knew her, or spoke to her. She was as a dead thing out of mind!

On making a more particular inquiry, I found that Mrs. W—— (formerly a common woman) had revealed her own secret, to Dr. Hunt, and twenty people besides. So the first accusation vanished into air. As to the second, I verily believe, the drunkenness with which she was charged, was, in reality, the falling down in a fit. So we have thrown away one of the most useful Leaders we ever had, for these wonderful reasons!

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I crossed over to Lynn, and found things much better than I expected. The behavious of Mr. G——, which one would have imagined would have done much harm, had rather done good. People in general cried, “Let that bad man go, they will do better without him.” And the House was sufficiently crowded with serious hearers. NOVEMBER 1. I returned to London.

In the two following weeks I visited the classes both in London and the neighboring societies. Sunday, 16. Being much importuned, I preached in the evening at Mr. Maxfield’s chapel. But I dare not do so again, as it cannot contain one third of that congregation at the new chapel.

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I preached at Sevenoaks, and on Tuesday, 18, at Mount-Ephraim, near Tunbridge-Wells. Wednesday, 19, I came once more to the lovely family at Shoreham. A little longer that venerable old man is permitted to remain here, that the flock may not be scattered. When I was at Sevenoaks I made an odd remark. In the year 1769, I weighed an hundred and twenty-two pounds. In 1783, I weighed not a pound more or less. I doubt whether such another instance is to be found in Great Britain.

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I preached at Canterbury, and again on Wednesday; on Tuesday, 25, at Dover; Thursday, 27, at Sheerness, where Mr. Fox read Prayers, and I preached on those words in the Second Lesson, “Today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.”

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I returned to London. Tuesday, DECEMBER 2. I married Mr. Rutherford and Miss Lydia Duplex. Wednesday, 3. I took a little journey into Hertfordshire; and having preached at Hinxworth, and Wrestlingworth, on Friday, 5, I preached at Barnet, and on Saturday, 6, returned to London.

I now inquired more carefully and particularly into the strange case of poor Mr. M. But the more I inquired, the worse the matter appeared to be. It was plain, by the evidence of many unexceptionable witnesses, that he had told innumerable lies; affirming, denying, and affirming again! And this man, who has lived above twenty years in a constant course of lying and slandering, tells you, he enjoys constant communion with God; and that nothing can make him happier, but heaven!

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I spent two hours with that great man, Dr. Johnson, who is sinking into the grave by a gentle decay. Wednesday, 24. While we were dining at Mr. Blunt’s, his servant-maid, ill of a sore throat, died. Saturday,

27. I dined at Mr. Awbrey’s, with Mr. Wynantz, son of the Dutch merchant at whose house I met with Peter Bohler and his brethren, forty-five years ago.

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We concluded the year at the new chapel, with the voice of praise and thanksgiving.

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