1744

Just before the time I had designed to begin

preaching at the chapel, I was seized with such a pain as I do not remember ever to have felt before in my life. But I forgot it as soon as I had read my text, Psalms 18:1Psalm 18:1, etc., “I will love thee, O Lord, my strength.” And from that time I felt it no more.

About this time the soldiers abroad began to meet together, as we learned from the following letter: —

“SIR,

GHENT, February 2, 1744.

“I MAKE bold to send you these lines. February 18, 1743, we began our march for Germany. I was then much cast down, and my heart was ready to break. But the day we marched to Maestricht, I found the love of God shed abroad in my heart, that I thought my very soul was dissolved into tears. But this lasted not above three weeks, and then I was in heaviness again; till, on April 24, as I was walking in the fields, God broke my hard heart in pieces. And yet I was not delivered from the fear of death. I went to my quarters very sick and weak, in great pain of soul and body. By the morning I was so weak I could scarce go: But this proved a sweet night to my soul; for now I knew there was no condemnation for me, believing in Christ Jesus.

“June 16. — The day we engaged the French at Dettingen, as the battle began, I said, ‘Lord, in thee have I trusted; let me never be confounded.’ Joy overflowed my soul, and I told my comrades, ‘If I fall this day, I shall rest in the everlasting arms of Christ.’ Now I felt I could be content to be cast into the sea, for the sake of my dear brethren, so their eyes might be opened, and they might see, before it was too late, the things that belong unto their peace. “When we came to winter quarters, there were but three of us joined together. But now, by the blessing of God, we are increased to twelve: And we have reason to believe the hand of the Lord is with us. I desire, for the sake of Him whom we follow after, that you would send us some instructions, how to proceed in our little society. God is become a mouth to me, and has blessed even my word to some of their souls. All praise, and glory, and honor, be unto Him and to the Lamb for ever and ever. From

“Your affectionate brother,

“J. H.”

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We were informed of the invasion intended by the French, who were expected to land every hour. I therefore exhorted the congregation, in the words of our Lord, Luke 21:36, “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

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In the evening, after expounding the third chapter of Jonah, I besought every one to “turn from his evil way,” and; “cry mightily unto God;” and enlarged on these words, “Who can tell if God will turn and repent, and turn away from his fierce anger, that we perish not?” We observed Friday, 17, as a day of solemn fasting and prayer. In the afternoon, many being met together, I exhorted them, now, while they had opportunity, to make to themselves “friends of the mammon of unrighteousness;” to deal their bread to the hungry, to clothe the naked, and not to hide themselves from their own flesh. And God opened their hearts, so that they contributed near fifty pounds, which I began laying out the very next hour, in linen, woolen, and shoes for them whom I knew to be diligent and yet in want. In the evening I expounded Daniel 3; and those words in particular: “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace. But if not, we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.”

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I received an account, from James Jones, of another kind of invasion in Staffordshire. The substance of it was as follows: — “On Monday, January 23, a great mob gathered together at Darlaston, a mile from Wednesbury. They fell upon a few people who were going to Wednesbury, and among the rest, on Joshua Constable’s wife, of Darlaston. Some of them threw her down, and five or six holden her down, that another might force her. But she continued to resist, till they changed their purpose, beat her much, and went away.

“Mon. 30. — The mob gathered again, broke into Joshua Constable’s house, pulled part of it down, broke some of his goods in pieces, and carried the rest away: Particularly all his shop-goods, to a considerable value. But not satisfied with this, they sought for him and his wife, swearing they would knock their brains out. Their little children meantime, as well as themselves, wandered up and down, no one daring to relieve or take them in, lest they should hazard their own lives.

“Tues. 31. — About a hundred of the mob met together, on the Church Hill at Wednesbury. But hearing some of Wednesbury were resolved to defend themselves, they dispersed for that time. “Wed. February 1. — Mr. Charles Wesley came to Birmingham, and the next day preached at Wednesbury. The whole congregation was quiet and attentive, nor had we any noise or interruption. “Mon. 6. — I accompanied him part of his way, and in the afternoon came back to Wednesbury. I found the society met together, and commending themselves to God in prayer, having been informed that many, both at Darlaston and other places, had bound themselves by an oath, to come on Shrove-Tuesday, (the next day,) and plunder all the Methodists in Wednesbury.

“We continued in prayer till the evening. I desired as many as could, to meet me again at eight in the morning. But I had scarce begun to speak, when one came running with all speed, and told us, a large mob was coming into the town, and had broke into some houses already. I immediately retired to my father’s house; but he did not dare to receive me. Nor did any one else; till at length Henry Parks took me in; whence, early in the morning, I went to Birmingham.

“The mob had been gathering all Monday night, and on Tuesday morning they began their work. They assaulted, one after another, all the houses of those who were called Methodists. They first broke all their windows, suffering neither glass, lead, nor frames to remain therein. Then they made their way in; and all the tables, chairs, chests of drawers, with whatever was not easily removable, they dashed in pieces, particularly shop-goods, and furniture of every kind. What they could not well break, as feather-beds, they cut in pieces, and strewed about the room. William Sitch’s wife was lying in: But that was all one; they pulled away her bed too, and cut it in pieces.” (Had the French come in that place, would they have done more?) “All this time none offered to resist them. Indeed most part, both men and women, fled for their lives; only the children stayed, not knowing whither to go.

“Wearing apparel, and things which were of value, or easily saleable, they carried away; every man loading himself with as much as he could well carry, of whatever he liked best. “Some of the gentlemen who had set the mob to work, or threatened to turn away collier or miner out of their service, that did not come and do his part, now drew up a paper for those of the society to sign importing, that they would never invite or receive any Methodist Preacher more. On this condition, they told them they would stop the mob at once; otherwise they must take what followed.

“This they offered to several; but they declared, one and all, ‘We have already lost all our goods; and nothing more can follow, but the loss of our lives, which we will lose too, rather than wrong our consciences.’

“On Wednesday the mob divided into two or three companies; one of which went to Aldridge, four miles from Wednesbury, and plundered many houses there, as they had done in several other villages. Here also they loaded themselves with clothes and goods of all sorts, as much as they could stand under. They came back through Walsal with their spoils; but the gentlemen of Walsal being apprised of their coming, raised a body of men, who met them, took what they had away, and laid it up in the Town-Hall. Notice was then sent to Aldridge, that every man who had been plundered, might come and take his own goods.

“Mr. Wood, of Wednesbury, likewise told several, they should have what could be found of their goods, on condition they would promise not to receive or hear those Preachers any more. “On Friday, in the afternoon, I went from Birmingham, designing to go to Tipton-Green; but finding the mob were still raging up and down, I returned to Birmingham, and soon after, (having as yet no more place in these parts,) set out for London.”

Any who desires to see a fuller and more particular account of these surprising transactions, may read a small tract, entitled, “Modern Christianity exemplified at Wednesbury.”

Before I leave this subject, it may be proper to insert an advertisement, which was not long after inserted in the public papers. In the Whitehall and London Evening Post, Saturday, February 18, was a paragraph with some mistakes, which it may not be amiss to rectify. “By a private letter from Staffordshire, we have advice of an insurrection of the people called Methodists,” — the insurrection was not of the people called Methodists, but against them, — “who upon some pretended insults from the Church party,” — they pretended no insults from the Church party; being themselves no other than true members of the Church of England; but were more insulted by a mixed multitude of Church-goers, (who seldom, if ever, go near a church,) Dissenters, and Papists, — “have assembled themselves in a riotous manner.” — Here is another small error personae. Many hundreds of the mob did assemble themselves in a riotous manner, having given public notice several days before, (particularly by a paper set up in Walsal Market-place,) that on Shrove-Tuesday they intended to come and destroy the Methodists, and inviting all the country to come and join them. “And having committed several outrages,” — without ever committing any, they have suffered all manner of outrages for several months past, — “they proceeded at last to burn the house of one of their adversaries.” — Without burning any house or making any resistance, some hundreds of them, on Shrove-Tuesday last, had their own houses broken up, their windows, window-cases, beds, tools, goods of all sorts, broke all to pieces, or taken away by open violence; their live goods driven off, themselves forced to fly for their lives, and most of them stripped of all they had in the world.

Ever since the 20th of last June the mob of Walsal, Darlaston, and Wednesbury, hired for that purpose by their betters, have broke open their poor neighbors’ houses at their pleasure, by night and by day; extorted money from the few that had it; took away or destroyed their victuals and goods; beat and wounded their bodies; threatened their lives; abused their women, (some in a manner too horrible to name,) and openly declared they would destroy every Methodist in the country: The Christian country, where His Majesty’s innocent and loyal subjects have been so treated for eight months; and are now, by their wanton persecutors, publicly branded for rioters and incendiaries!

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Mr. Viney came to me from Yorkshire, and told me: “About a year ago, being then Vor-steher (a kind of President) in the Church of the Brethren, I proposed some scruples I had concerning our discipline, with the reasons on which they were grounded, to Mr. Spangenberg; and begged, that till these were removed, I might have liberty to remain, not a governor, but a private member of the Church.

“With this, Mr. Spangenberg would not comply. So at his instance I continued in my office, and the thing slept till May, 1743, when in a meeting of the Laborers (so they term their church officers) I was ordered to withdraw, and the following questions were proposed:

1. Whether Richard Viney were not of Satan, and an enemy to the Church. And,

2. Whether his objections to the discipline of the Brethren did not spring from anger, and self, and pride. After a debate of four hours I was called in, and asked if I was convinced those objections were wrong. I said I was not, and desired they would cast lots; which, after a little debate, they did. The lot came, ‘The objections are just.’ So for a time the thing slept again.

“But in November following, they considered the point again; the result was, that they sent one to tell me I was of Satan; had raised objections against the Brethren from anger, and self, and pride; and therefore I was cut off from the Church, and delivered over to Satan. I was greatly surprised, but not disturbed: God gave me perfect peace. After much prayer I wrote to you, to know where I might meet you. I know it was the will of God I should come, and that I should give myself up to your direction; and therefore I have spoke without any disguise or reserve.” I told him, “If you go back, you are welcome to go; if you stay with me, you are welcome to stay: Only, whatever you do, do it with a clear conscience; and I shall be satisfied either way.”

After a few days he went back to Yorkshire to talk with his wife. The Brethren saw him again, and I saw him no more.

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In returning at night from Snowsfields, at the corner of Joyner-Street, the coach, wherein five of us were, was overturned; but without any one’s being hurt; although the shock was so great as not only to dash the fore-windows six pieces, but to break the axle-tree in two.

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Was the day I had appointed to go out of town; but

understanding a Proclamation was just published, requiring all Papists to go out of London, before the Friday following, I was determined to stay another week, that I might cut off all occasion of reproach. I was the more willing to stay, that I might procure more raiment for the poor before I left London.

For this purpose I made a second collection, which amounted to about thirty pounds. But perceiving that the whole money received would not answer one-third of the expense, I determined to go round the classes, and beg for the rest, till I had gone through the whole society.

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I began to put this in execution. While I was at a house

in Spitalfields, a Justice of Peace came with the Parish Officers, being on their search for Papists. I was glad of the opportunity to talk with them at large, both of our principles and practice. When I went out, a pretty large mob attended me to the door of the house to which I was going: But they did us no hurt, only gaped, and stared, and hallooed as loud as they could.

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I was much pressed to write an address to the King, which I did in the following terms: —

“TO THE KING’S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY;

“The humble Address of the Societies in England and Wales, in derision called Methodists:

“Most Gracious Sovereign,

“So inconsiderable as we are, ‘a people scattered and peeled, and trodden under foot, from the beginning hitherto,’ we should in no wise have presumed, even on this great occasion, to open our lips to your Majesty, had we not been induced, indeed constrained, so to do, by two considerations: The One, that in spite of all our remonstrances on that head, we are continually represented as a peculiar sect of men, separating ourselves from the Established Church: The Other, that we are still traduced as inclined to Popery, and consequently disaffected to your Majesty.

“Upon these considerations we think it incumbent upon us, if we must stand as a distinct body from our brethren, to tender for ourselves our most dutiful regards to your sacred Majesty; and to declare, in the presence of Him we serve, the King of kings, and Lord of lords, that we are a part (however mean) of that Protestant Church, established in these kingdoms: That we unite together for this, and no other end, — to promote, so far as we may be capable, justice, mercy, and truth; the glory of God, and peace and goodwill among men: That we detest and abhor the fundamental doctrines of the Church of Rome, and are steadily attached to your Majesty’s royal person and illustrious house.

“We cannot, indeed, say or do either more or less than we apprehend consistent with the written word of God; but we are ready to obey your Majesty to the uttermost, in all things which we conceive to be agreeable thereto. And we earnestly exhort all with whom we converse, as they fear God, to honor the King. We, of the Clergy in particular, put all men in mind to revere the higher powers, as of God; and continually declare, ‘Ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.’ “Silver and gold (most of us must own) we have none: but such as we have we humbly beg your Majesty to accept; together with our hearts and prayers. May He who hath bought us with his blood, the Prince of all the kings of the earth, fight against all the enemies of your Majesty, with the two-edged sword that cometh out of his mouth! And when he calleth your Majesty from this throne, full of years and victories, may it be with that voice, ‘Come, receive the kingdom prepared for thee, from the beginning of the world!’ “These are the continual prayers of your Majesty’s dutiful and loyal subjects,

“JOHN WESLEY,” etc.

But upon farther consideration it was judged best to lay it aside.

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I found it was absolutely necessary for me to spend a few days at Bristol. In the evening I set out. As I rode through Newbury the next day, my horse fell, and threw me into a deep mire. I was not hurt; but, after cleaning myself a little, went on, and came to Kingswood between one and two on Tuesday. I preached here with great enlargement of heart, as I did at Bristol in the evening.

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I endeavored to clear up the misunderstandings which had

arisen, by hearing the contending parties face to face. It was, as I suspected, a mere strife of words; of which they were all so fully sensible, that I believe they will not so easily again fall into this snare of the devil.

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I talked largely with the Kingswood stewards, concerning the state of their schools and society; and then with the master, mistress, and children; and found great cause to bless God on their behalf. In the evening I preached at Bristol, on, “I will love thee, O Lord, my strength;” and, after commending myself to their prayers, I rode to Marshfield.

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We reached London. Sunday, 18, was a day of rest. Tuesday,

20. Having received a summons, from the Justices of Surrey, to appear at their Court, at St. Margaret’s Hill, I did so; and asked, “Has any one any thing to lay to my charge?” None made any reply. At length, one of the Justices said, “Sir, are you willing to take the oaths to His Majesty, and to sign the declaration against Popery?” I said, “I am;” which I accordingly did, and returned home.

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I gave the society an account of what had been done with regard to the poor. By the contributions and collections I had received about one hundred and seventy pounds; with which above three hundred and thirty poor had been provided with needful clothing. Thirty or forty remaining still in want, and there being some debts for the clothes already distributed, the next day, being Good Friday, I made one collection more, of about six and twenty pounds. This treasure, at least, “neither rust nor moth” shall “corrupt,” “nor thieves break through and steal.”

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My brother and I agreed it was enough for one of us to stay in town, while the other endeavored to strengthen our brethren in other parts. So, on Monday, 26, I set out, and came in the evening to Newbury. While we were at breakfast, the next day, two or three poor men were, with many oaths, relating their exploits the day before. I turned, and appealed to their own hearts, whether they were doing well. They owned their fault, and were so loving, we could scarce get away.

We called at a house in the afternoon, wherein the first person we met was so drunk, that she could not speak plain, and could but just make shift to curse and swear. In the next room we found three or four more merry people, keeping Easter in much the same manner. But their mirth was soon spoiled. They gave earnest heed to the things they little regarded before, and knew not how to express their thankfulness for our advice, and for a few little books which we left with them.

In the evening I preached at Bristol. On Wednesday and Thursday I settled all things there; and on Friday, 30, rode to Middlesey; where I preached to a small, serious congregation. Saturday, 31. Calling at Chard, I light upon a poor woman unawares, who was earnestly groaning for redemption. At noon we spent an hour with a little company in Axminster, and hastened on for Crockern-Wells: but the hail and snow falling fast, we could not reach it till past nine o’clock.

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I rode to Sticklepath. At one I preached in an open place, on, “This is the record, that God hath given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” A storm of rain and hail began while I was preaching; but the congregation did not move. At five I preached again. Many of the poor people followed me to the house at which I lodged; and we could not consent to part, till I had spent another hour in exhortation, and prayer, and thanksgiving.

I read today the strange account of that John Endicot, Governor of New-England, and his associates there; who beat and imprisoned so many of the poor Quakers, and murdered William Robinson, Marmaduke Stephenson, and others. O who would have looked for Father Inquisitors at Boston! Surely these men did not cry out against Popish cruelty!

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I preached at five, and rode on toward Launceston. The hills were covered with snow, as in the depth of winter. About two we came to Trewint, wet and weary enough, having been battered by the rain and hail for some hours. I preached in the evening to many more than the house would contain, on the happiness of him whose sins are forgiven. In the morning Degory Isbel undertook to pilot us over the great moor, all the paths being covered with snow; which, in many places, was driven together, too deep for horse or man to pass. The hail followed us for the first seven miles; we had then a fair, though exceeding sharp, day. I preached at Gwennap in the evening, to a plain, simple hearted people; and God comforted us by each other.

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About eleven we reached St. Ives. I was a little surprised at entering John Nance’s house; being received by many, who were waiting for me there, with a loud (though not bitter) cry. But they soon recovered; and we poured out our souls together in praises and thanksgiving. As soon as we went out, we were saluted, as usual, with a huzza, and a few stones or pieces of dirt. But in the evening none opened his mouth, while I proclaimed, “I will love thee, O Lord, my strength. — I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies.”

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I took a view of the ruins of the house which the mob had pulled down a little before, for joy that Admiral Matthews had beat the Spaniards. Such is the Cornish method of thanksgiving. I suppose, if Admiral Lestock had fought too, they would have knocked all the Methodists on the head.

Both this morning and evening the congregation was as large as the house could well contain. In the society, God did indeed sit upon his people as a refiner’s fire. He darted into all (I believe hardly one excepted) the melting flame of love; so that their heads were as water, and their eyes as fountains of tears.

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I spoke with the members of the society severally, and observed, with great satisfaction, that persecution had driven only three or four away, and exceedingly strengthened the rest. The persecution here was owing, in great measure, to the indefatigable labors of Mr. Hoblin and Mr. Simmons; gentlemen worthy to be “had in everlasting remembrance,” for their unwearied endeavors to destroy heresy. Fortunati ambo! Siquid mea pagina possit,

Nulla dies unquam memori vow eximet aevo. f49

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I took down part of the account of the late riot; which (to show the deep regard of the actors herein for His Majesty) was on the self-same day on which his Majesty’s Proclamation against rioters was read. Yet I see much good has been brought out of it already; particularly the great peace we now enjoy.

About eleven John Nance and I set out for Morva. Having both the wind and rain full in our faces, we were thoroughly wet before we came to Rosemargay, where some of our brethren met us. I found there had been a shaking among them, occasioned by the confident assertions of some, that they had seen Mr. Wesley, a week or two ago, with the Pretender, in France; and others, that he was in prison at London. Yet the main body still stood firm together, and were not removed from the hope of the Gospel.

The wind and rain beat hard upon us again, as we walked from Morva to St. Just, which also frighted many from coming. However, some hundreds were there, to whom I declared, If ye have nothing to pay, God will frankly forgive you all. It is remarkable, that those of St. Just were the chief of the whole country for hurling, fighting, drinking, and all manner of wickedness; but many of the lions are become lambs, are continually praising God, and calling their old companions in sin to come and magnify the Lord together.

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I preached here at five and at twelve; and in the evening at Morva.

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I preached at noon on Triggivary-Downs, about two miles from Penzance. A great congregation was deeply attentive while I described the “sect” which “is every where spoken against.” At four I preached near Gulval, regulated the society, and returned to St. Ives.

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I was inquiring, how Dr. B—— e, a person of unquestioned sense and learning, could speak evil of this way, after he had seen such a change in the most abandoned of his parishioners: But I was satisfied, when Jonathan Reeves informed me, that on the Doctor’s asking him who had been the better for this preaching, and his replying, “The man before you (John Daniel) for one, who never before knew any work of God upon his soul,” the Doctor answered, “Get along: You are a parcel of mad, crazy-headed fellows;” and, taking him by the shoulder, fairly thrust him to the door. See here what it is which the world accounts madness: The knowing a work of God upon our soul!

In the afternoon I walked over to Zennor, and after preaching, settled the infant society.

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Being the Public Fast, the church at St. Ives was well filled. After reading those strong words, “If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more them of his household!” Mr. H. fulfilled them, by vehemently declaiming against the new sect, as enemies of the Church, Jacobites, Papists, and what not! After church, we met, and spent an hour in prayer, not forgetting the poor sinner against his own soul. In the evening I preached at Gwennap. I stood on the wall, in the calm, still evening, with the setting sun behind me, and almost an innumerable multitude before, behind, and of either hand. Many, likewise, sat on the little hills, at some distance from the bulk of the congregation. But they could all hear distinctly, while I read, “The disciple is not above his master,” and the rest of those comfortable words, which are day by day fulfilled in our ears.

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About eleven I preached at Crowan. In the afternoon we heard of the success of Mr. H.’s sermon. James Wheatley was walking through the town in the evening, when the mob gathered, and began to throw stones from all quarters. He stepped into a house; but the master of it followed him, like a lion, to drag him out. Yet, after a few words, his mind was changed, and he swore nobody should hurt him. Mean time one went for a Justice of Peace, who came, and promised to see him safe home. The mob followed, hallooing and shouting amain. Near John Paynter’s house the Justice left him: They quickly beset the house. But a messenger came from the Mayor, forbidding any to touch Mr. Wheatley, at his peril. He then went home. But between seven and eight the mob came and beset John Nance’s house. John Nance and John Paynter went out, and stood before the door; though they were quickly covered with dirt. The cry was, “Bring out the Preacher! Pull down the house!” And they began to pull down the boards which were nailed against the windows. But the Mayor, hearing it, came without delay, and read the Proclamation against riots: Upon which, after many oaths and imprecations, they thought proper to disperse.

About six I reached Morva, wet through and through; the rain having continued with scarce any intermission. However, a little company were gathered together, to whom I preached, on, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” The next day I had time to dry my clothes at Mr. John’s, near Penzance. At noon I preached on the Downs, not far from his house; about three at Gulval, and at St. Ives in the evening.

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I took my leave of St. Ives; preached at two in Camborn, and at Gwennap in the evening.

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I preached here again at five, and at eight in Stithian parish. The place was a green triangular plat, capable of holding eight or ten thousand men. I stood on one of the walls that inclosed it. Many sat on the other two. Some thousands stood between, and received the word with all readiness of mind.

At five I preached at Gwennap, on a little hill, near the usual place. It rained from the time I began till I concluded. I felt no pain while I spoke, but the instant I had done, and all the time I was with the society, my teeth and head ached so violently, that I had hardly any senses. I lay down as soon as I could, and fell asleep. In the morning (blessed be God) I ailed nothing.

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In the afternoon we came again to Trewint. Here I learned, that notice had been given of my preaching that evening in Laneast church, which was crowded exceedingly. Mr. Bennet, the Minister of Laneast, carried me afterwards to his house; and (though above seventy years old) came with me in the morning to Trewint, where I had promised to preach at five.

Before we parted, Degory Isbel informed me of an accusation against me, current in those parts. It was really one which I did not expect; no more than that other, vehemently asserted at St. Ives, of my bringing the Pretender with me last autumn, under the name of John Downes. It was, that I called myself John Wesley; whereas every body knew Mr. Wesley was dead.

In the afternoon we came to Sticklepath. I preached at five in the evening: The house was crowded as before. After a short exhortation, and an hour spent in prayer, I commended them to the grace of God.

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Before eight we reached Crediton, (or Kirton,) or rather the ruins of it; for the houses on both sides were all in ashes, for several hundred yards. Lighting on a serious woman, I asked, “Are the people of this place now warned to seek God?” she answered, “Although some of them perished in the flames, the rest were just as they were before, cursing, swearing, drinking, playing, and making merry, without God in all their thoughts.” She added, “No longer ago than Thursday last, the men who were rebuilding one of the houses, were bitterly cursing and swearing one at another, and two of them above the rest, when an arch they were under fell, and crunched those two, with all their bones, in pieces.” Will ye not at length hear the rod, and him that hath appointed it? Between five and six in the evening we reached Minehead. Finding a general expectation of it among the people, about seven I preached near the sea-shore, to almost all the inhabitants of the place. Most of the gentlemen of the town were there, and behaved with seriousness and decency.

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Having a sloop ready, which came on purpose, we ran over

the Channel in about four hours. Some of our friends were waiting for us on the shore. About one we came to Fonmon Castle. I found a natural wish, “O for ease and a resting-place!” Not yet. But eternity is at hand! I preached at six, and at five in the morning. Friday, 20. About ten we set out for Cardiff; where, in the evening, I preached in the Castle-yard. All were serious and attentive.

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I rode to Garth, in Brecknockshire, and on Sunday, 22, preached in the church there, both morning and afternoon. On Monday, 23, I preached in Maesmennys church, and afterwards in the church-yard at Builth. I observed only one man with his hat on; probably through inattention; for he likewise kneeled down on the grass with the rest, as soon as I began to pray.

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I preached at Maesmennys again, and about five in Landau

church, near Brecknock. Such a church I never saw before. There was not a glass window belonging to it; but only boards, with holes bored here and there, through which a dim light glimmered in. Yet even here may the light of God’s countenance shine. And it has shone on many hearts.

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We rode over the still snowy mountains. At twelve I

preached at Killigaer: In the evening at Cardiff, and the next evening at Fonmon. On Saturday, 28, I returned to Bristol.

After resting here, for eight days, (though not unemployed,) on Monday, MAY 7, I set out for the north. I preached about eight at Acton: In the afternoon at Stroud: In the evening at Painswick, and at five the next morning. About eight, Tuesday, 8, I called at Gloucester, designing only to speak with a friend; but finding an house full of people, I would not disappoint their expectation, but stayed and preached on the form and the power of godliness. This made me some what later than I intended at Cheltenham, where I preached on, “By grace are ye saved through faith,” to a company who seemed to understand just as much of the matter, as if I had been talking Greek. I found a people of quite another kind at Cutherton, to whom I preached on, “Repent ye, and believe the Gospel.” And many called upon God for grace so to do, even with strong cries and tears.

We had a remarkable blessing again at five in the morning, Wednesday, 9. About noon I preached at Stanley; (a mile from Gutherton;) at three in Tewkesbury; and in the evening at the Abbey, in Evesham.

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Riding by Birmingham, I called at a village three miles beyond it. Here a poor man was cursing and swearing at so uncommon a rate, that I was constrained to speak to him very plainly. He received it, drunk as he was, in great love; and so did all his companions.

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I preached at Sheffield: On Saturday, 12, about ten, at Barley-Hall. In the afternoon I rode to Epworth, and immediately went to Mr. Maw’s, to return him thanks for his good offices to Mr. Downes; and his honest and open testimony for the truth, before the worshipful Bench at Kirton. It was not his fault, that those honorable men regarded not the laws either of God, or the King. But a soldier they were resolved he should be, right or wrong, — because he was a Preacher. So, to make all sure, they sent him away, — a prisoner to Lincoln gaol!

My first design was, to have gone the shortest way from Sheffield to Newcastle. But it was well I did not, considering the inexpressible panic, which had spread itself in all places. So that I came just in time to remind all the poor frighted sheep, that “even the hairs of” our “head are all numbered.”

I preached thrice at Epworth on Sunday; and on Monday, 14, at Ferry. The Constable who took Mr. Downes for a soldier, with one of the Churchwardens, were of my audience. I was informed, they had threatened great things before I came: But their threatenings vanished into air. At two, many of our brethren at Epworth met, whom I cheerfully commended to the grace of God. We were riding gently toward Fishlake, when two or three persons met us, and begged we would not go that way; for the town, they said, was all up in arms, and abundance were waiting for us in the way, many of whom had made themselves very drunk, and so were ripe for any manner of mischief. We accordingly rode to Sykehouse another way. Some came in all haste hither also, to tell us, all the men in the congregation would be pressed. Others affirmed, the mob was just a coming; and that they would certainly fire the house, or pull it down to the ground. I told them, then our only way was, to make the best use of it while it was standing: So I began expounding the tenth chapter of St. Matthew. But no man opened his lips against us.

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After comforting the little flock at Norton, I rode the shortest way to Birstal. Here I found our brethren partly mourning, and partly rejoicing, on account of John Nelson. On Friday, the 4th instant, (they informed me,) the Constables took him, just as he had ended his sermon at Adwalton; and the next day carried him before the Commissioners at Halifax; the most active of whom was Mr. Coleby, Vicar of Birstal. Many were ready to testify, that he was in no respect such a person as the Act of Parliament specified. But they were not heard. He was a Preacher: That was enough. So he was sent for a soldier at once. f50

At seven I preached on the Hill; no man interrupting me. Afterwards I inquired into the state of the society; and found great cause to bless God, whose grace, even in these trying times, was sufficient for them.

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I talked at large with Mr. Viney. He said, his first perplexity arose, from reading and reflecting upon some writings, which the Count published in Pennsylvania; and that the more deeply he considered the whole affair, the more thoroughly he was convinced,

1. That the Count was at least as much the head of theirs, as the Pope of the Roman Church.

2. That he had cruelly and unjustly broke up the congregation at Pilger-ruh, in Holstein, because (in obedience to the King of Denmark, their lawful Prince) they had disclaimed his superiority over them.

3. That the Laborers among the Brethren, were absolutely arbitrary in their government of the people; and, Lastly, That they grossly abused the lot, in support of their arbitrary power.

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I preached at five, on Matthew 10; about noon, at Little-Horton, near Bradford; about three in the afternoon at Stickerlane; and at Birstal in the evening.

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I rode to Leeds, and preached in great peace.

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I went on to Mr. Clayton’s, at Wensley; and on Sunday, 20, preached in Redmire church on part of John 3, the Gospel for the day. In the afternoon I preached at Bolton chapel, on, “We know that we are of God.” I was much pleased at the serious behavior of the congregation, both in the morning and afternoon; especially at Redmire, where, from a village of about thirty houses, we had more than fifty communicants.

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I rode to Newcastle, and passed a quiet week.

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I began visiting the classes in the town; and on Sunday, JUNE 3, those in the country, which I had never found so much in earnest before. I trust, there is not only not a disorderly walker, but hardly a trifler left among them.

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I preached at night on John 17:3. The House could not contain the congregation; and most of them stayed either within or without, till the end of the midnight hymn.

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I preached at Biddick, about eight; at Tanfield, as soon as Morning Prayer was over; at Spen about three, and in Newcastle at six. I concluded the day, in praising God with the society.

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I left Newcastle, and in the afternoon met John Nelson, at Durham, with Thomas Beard; another quiet and peaceable man, who had lately been torn from his trade, and wife and children, and sent away as a soldier; that is, banished from all that was near and dear to him, and constrained to dwell among lions, for no other crime, either committed or pretended, than that of calling sinners to repentance. But his soul was in nothing terrified by his adversaries. Yet the body, after a while, sunk under its burden. He was then lodged in the hospital, at Newcastle, where he still praised God continually. His fever increasing, he was let blood. His arm festered, mortified, and was cut off: Two or three days after which, God signed his discharge, and called him up to his eternal home. Servant of God, well done! Well hast thou fought

The better fight; who single hast maintained,

Against revolted multitudes, the cause

Of God; in word, mightier than they in arms.

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In the evening I came to Knaresborough. About nine o’clock I was informed, that the house in which we were, was beset on every side, with men, women, and children. I desired those within to set open the doors, and let all come in that would. When the house was full, I came down. The noise presently ceased, and I proclaimed, Christ our “wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.” Only one drunken man gave a little interruption; but his companions soon thrust him out of doors. So let all Satan’s devices fall on his own head! I trust, this mob did not come together in vain.

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I rode to Leeds, and thence to Birstal. Thursday, 14. I accompanied John Bennet into Lancashire. I preached to a small congregation at eleven; in the afternoon at Woodley in Cheshire; and in the evening at Chinley-End, in Derbyshire, on, “Repent ye, and believe the Gospel.”

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I preached at Chinley at five; about noon in the Peak; and in the evening at Barley-Hall. Saturday, 16. In the evening I preached at Sykehouse; and by setting out early in the morning, Sunday, 17, at eight preached in Epworth. I came thither in season; for two such sermons as Mr. Romley preached on this day, so exquisitely bitter, and totally false, I cannot say I ever heard before.

After Evening Service I preached on Romans 3:22, to a much larger congregation than in the morning; and I believe all that were sincere of heart, were exceedingly comforted.

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I left Epworth, and, on Wednesday, 20, in the afternoon, met my brother in London.

Monday, 25, and the five following days, we spent in conference with many of our brethren, (come from several parts,) who desire nothing but to save their own souls, and those that hear them. And surely, as long as they continue thus minded, their labor shall not be in vain in the Lord. The next week we endeavored to purge the society of all that did not walk according to the Gospel. By this means we reduced the number of members to less than nineteen hundred. But number is an inconsiderable circumstance. May God increase them in faith and love!

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My brother set out for Cornwall. I had much trouble for the fortnight following, in endeavoring to prevent an unwary man from destroying his own, and many other souls. On Monday, 23, when I set out for Bristol, I flattered myself that the work was done; but, upon my return, I found I had done just nothing; so that on Thursday, AUGUST 2, I was constrained to declare in the society, that Thomas Williams was no longer in connection with us.

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I preached to the debtors in Newgate, and desired two or three of my friends to attend them weekly. I had a serious, well behaved congregation. Perhaps God may give us some fruit here also.

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Mr. Piers rode over with me to Shoreham, and introduced me to Mr. Perronet. I hope to have cause of blessing God for ever, for the acquaintance begun this day.

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I went to Bedlam, at the repeated request of Mr. S —, who had been confined there above two years. This was the person who, while he was speaking against my brother and me to the society at Kingswood, was in a moment struck raving mad. But it seems God is at length entreated for him, and has restored him to a sound mind.

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I received a remarkable letter, part of which is here subjoined: “REV. SIR, August 14, 1744.

“I WAS surprised on Sunday, when you was pleased to tell me, I carried things to extremes, in denying the lawful pleasures in eating. I denied only self-indulgence in eating: All which I advance is, that he who will be Christ’s disciple, must absolutely deny himself. It was once a great self-denial to me, not to go to a play, or to other diversions; but this is now no self-denial to me at all; so that if I was now called to deny myself in these things only, I might take up with what is past, and now live an agreeable, self indulgent life. But God forbid! I plainly see every hour produces occasions of self-pleasing: And this I apprehend is a sufficient call for, and rule of, self-denial. For instance: In the morning, it is a great self-denial to rise out of a warm bed; but if I do not, I am immediately condemned as a slothful servant: If I do, I find a great inward blessing. Under the preaching, it is self-pleasing to see who is here, who there; but if I do let my eye wander, I become cold and lifeless: If I deny myself, I often find even a present reward. In walking the streets, I can please myself, by looking this way and that; on this chariot, that house and picture; but if I deny myself for Christ’s sake, his consolations abound with me.

“But I may deny myself outwardly, and yet be self-indulgent; namely, by allowing myself in vain and trifling thoughts. Here is a continual fight, and a hard struggle I must have before I conquer. But when I do overcome, I lose nothing by it; for my soul is delighted with secret refreshments.

“At noon, I may find many pleasant things; and of this it was that I said to Mr. Richards, ‘If there are two dishes set before you, by the rule of self-denial, you ought to eat of that which you like the least.’ And this rule I desire to observe myself; always to choose what is least pleasing and cheapest; therefore, I feed much upon milk: It is pleasant enough, and nothing I can find is so cheap. Whereas if one sort of food be dearer than another, and yet I use it, because more agreeable to my appetite, this I apprehend is directly contrary to the discipleship of a self-denying Master: And this kind of self-indulgence (not in food only) is practiced by too many that know the truth.

“I suppose, Sir, you now perceive, I do not condemn all pleasure in eating; but I condemn all self-indulgence, both in that and other things, particularly in talking. Many who think themselves believers, please themselves with talking more than is profitable. They talk even of the things of God, till they bring a deadness, nay, an unaccountable carelessness over their spirits. I don’t say, they laugh or talk idly; but still they are not deeply serious, nor is their conversation truly solid; whereas I should think the conscience of a true believer is tender as the apple of an eye; and that to such a one it would be less pain to suffer the rack, than to trifle, either in word or deed.”

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I set out with a few friends for Oxford. On Wednesday, my brother met us from Bristol. Friday, 24. (St. Bartholomew’s day.) I preached, I suppose the last time, at St. Mary’s. Be it so. I am now clear of the blood of these men. I have fully delivered my own soul. The Beadle came to me afterwards, and told me the vice-chancellor had sent him for my notes. I sent them without delay, not without admiring the wise providence of God. Perhaps few men of note would have given a sermon of mine the reading, if I had put it into their hands; but by this means it came to be read, probably more than once, by every man of eminence in the University.

I left Oxford about noon, preached at Wycombe in the evening; and, on Saturday, 25, returned to London.

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I talked pretty largely with George Newans, the supposed Shropshire Prophet. I am inclined to think he believes himself; but I cannot believe, God has sent him.

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One sent me word he had now found the right way of

worshipping God; and therefore he must leave off prayer and the rest of our will worship, and join himself with the Quakers. However, in the evening, he ventured among us once more; and God smote him to the heart; so that he knew, and felt, and declared aloud, that he had no need of going elsewhere to find the power of God unto salvation.

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I committed to the dust the remains of Elizabeth Marsh, a young woman who had received a sense of the pardoning love of God about four years before her death, and had never left her first love. She had scarce known health or ease from that hour; but she never murmured or repined at any thing. I saw her many times after she was confined to her bed, and found her always quiet and calm, always cheerful, praising God in the fires, though longing to depart and to be with Christ. I could not learn that her mind was ever clouded, no, not a moment, from the beginning of her illness. But a few days before she died, she told me, “I am concerned, I spoke a hasty word today. One told me, ‘You shall recover within ten days;’ and I said, ‘I don’t want to recover.”’ A little before her speech failed, she beckoned one to her, and said, “Go and tell Molly Brown from me, she must come back to Mr. Wesley. I have not breath to speak to her myself, but do you tell her, she must come back.” She had lost her voice when I prayed with her the last time, and commended her soul to God. But

Her eye dropped sense, distinct and clear

As any Muse’s tongue could speak.

It said, To me “to die is gain.” “I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,” and “fear no evil.”

I could only speak a few words at her grave; but when I returned to the Foundery, God made his word as a flame of fire. I spoke from that passage in the Revelation, “And one of the Elders said unto me, What are these who are arrayed in white robes; and whence came they? And I said, Sir, thou knowest. And he said unto me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”

A young man, servant to Mrs. Clark, of Newington, went home deeply affected. The next day he was taken ill, and everyday grew worse; so that when I came to the house on Monday, the 10th, (though I knew nothing of him, or of his illness before,) he was just gasping for breath. It was a melancholy sight: Both his words and his eyes “witnessed huge affliction and dismay.” Death stared him in the face, and he knew not God. He could but just say, “For God’s sake, pray for me!”

John Nelson coming in, we asked life for our brother, in full confidence of the promise. All this day, as his illness so his terrors increased. But the next day, God gave him life from the dead. He told me, “Now I am not afraid to die; for I know God loves me. I did not use to love you or your people; but now I love you as my own soul. I love you all: I know you are the people of God; and I am just going to him.” He continued praising God as long as he could speak; and when he could not, his eyes were fixed upwards. Between one and two on Wednesday morning he cried out, “I have lost my God! Where is he? I cannot see him.” But he soon recovered himself and said, “Now I have found him; and I shall lose him no more.” About seven I prayed with him, and praised God on his behalf; and not long after he fell asleep.

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I performed the last office (according to his desire) over his body, which was interred in the presence of a vast multitude of people, at a small distance from that of Elizabeth Marsh.

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I buried, near the same place, one who had soon finished her course, going to God in the full assurance of faith, when she was little more than four years old. In her last sickness, (having been deeply serious in her behavior for several months before,) she spent all the intervals of her convulsions in speaking of, or to, God. And when she perceived her strength to be near exhausted, she desired all the family to come near, and prayed for them all, one by one; then for her Ministers, for the Church, and for all the world. A short time after, recovering from a fit, she lifted up her eyes, said, “Thy kingdom come,” and died.

All this summer, our brethren in the west had as hot service as those in the north of England: The war against the Methodists, so called, being every where carried on with far more vigor than that against the Spaniards. I had accounts of this from all parts; one of which was as follows: — “REV. SIR,

“THE word of God has free course here; it runs and is glorified: But the devil rages horribly. Even at St. Ives, we cannot shut the doors of John Nance’s house, to meet the society, but the mob immediately threaten to break them open. They now triumph over us more and more, saying, it is plain, nothing can be done against them. And in other places it is worse. I was going to Crowan on Tuesday was se’nnight. On the road two of our brothers met me. When we came within a mile of the house, we saw a great mob at some distance; but they were going another way. We then left our horses at the house of a friend, and went forward on foot. Within a quarter of a mile of the place where I was to preach, two persons met us, who used to be persecutors. But they now desired me, for God’s sake, not to go up; for if I did, they said, there would surely be murder, if there was not already; for many were knocked down before they came away.

“By their advice, and the entreaties of those that were with me, I turned back to the house where we left our horses. We had been there but a short time, when many of the people came, being very bloody, and having been beaten very bad. But the main cry of the mob was after the Preacher, whom they sought for in every corner of the house; swearing bitterly, they only wanted to knock him on the head, and then they should be satisfied.

“Not finding me there, they said, however, they should catch him on Sunday at Camborn. But it was Mr. Westell’s turn to go thither on Sunday. While he was preaching there, at Mr. Harris’s house, a tall man came in, and pulled him down. Mr. Harris demanded his warrant; but he swore, warrant or no warrant, he should go with them: So he carried him out to the mob, who took him away to the Church-Town. They kept him there till Tuesday morning, and then carried him to Penzance; where, in the afternoon, he was brought before three Justices, and asked abundance of questions, to which they required him to answer upon oath. Then Dr. Borlase wrote his Mittimus, by virtue of which he was to be committed to the House of Correction at Bodmin as a vagrant. So they took him as far as Camborn that night, and the next day on to Bodmin. “I desire your continual prayers for me,

“Your weak servant in Christ,

“HENRY MILLARD.”

I pray, for what pay could we procure men to do this service? — to be always ready to go to prison, or to death?

Henry Millard did not long continue therein. After he had for some time fought a good fight, he took the small-pox, and in a few days joyfully resigned his spirit to God.

The justices who met at the next Quarter Sessions at Bodmin, knowing a little more of the laws of God and man, declared Mr. Westell’s commitment to be contrary to all laws and set him at liberty without delay.

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I was desired to call on a young gentlewoman

dangerously ill. But I soon found she needed no Physician for her soul, being full of righteousness and good works. However, I spoke to her with all plainness; and she awoke as one out of sleep. She drank in every word, and soon perceived the want of a better righteousness than her own. But her companion sent her father word, and she was immediately removed, so that I saw her no more.

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Poor Richard Jeffs, who, in spite of his former

conviction, was now determined to renounce us, and join the Quakers, ventured, however, once more, to the Lord’s table. He had no sooner received, than he dropped down, and cried with a loud voice, “I have sinned; I have sinned against God.” At that instant many were pierced to the heart. I could hardly speak for some time. Several mourners were filled with strong consolation; and all said, “Surely God is in this place!” About this time I received a letter, dated from the camp at Lisle. Part of it ran as follows: —

“May 1. — We marched to the camp, near Brussels. There a few of us joined into a society, being sensible, where two or three are gathered together in his name, there is our Lord in the midst of them. Our place of meeting was a small wood near the camp. We remained in this camp eight days, and then removed to a place called Ask. Here I began to speak openly, at a small distance from the camp, just in the middle of the English army: And here it pleased God to give me some evidences that my labor was not in vain. We sung a hymn, which drew about two hundred soldiers together, and they all behaved decently. After I had prayed, I begun to exhort them; and though it rained very hard, yet very few went away. Many acknowledged the truth, in particular a young man, John Greenwood, by name, who has kept with me ever since, and whom God has lately been pleased to give me for a fellow laborer. Our society is now increased to upwards of two hundred; and the hearers are frequently more than a thousand, although many say I am mad; and others have endeavored to incense the Field-Marshal against us. I have been sent for, and examined several times; but, blessed be God, he has always delivered me. “Many of the officers have come to hear for themselves, often nine or ten at a time. I endeavored to lose no opportunity. During our abode in the camp, at Ask, I have preached thirty five times in seven days. One of those times a soldier, who was present, called aloud to his comrades to come away, and not hear that fool any longer. But it pleased God to send the word spoken to his heart; so that he roared out, in the bitterness of his soul, for a considerable time: And then He, who never fails those that seek Him turned his heaviness into joy. — He is now never so happy as when he is proclaiming the loving kindness of God his Savior. “I was a little shocked at my first entrance on this great work, because I was alone, having none to help me: But the Lord helped me, and soon raised up William Clements, and, in June, John Evans, belonging to the Train, to my assistance. Since we have been in this camp we have built two small tabernacles, in which we meet at eight in the morning, at three in the afternoon, and seven at night; and commonly two whole nights in each week. “Since I began to write this, we are come to our winter quarters, so that our society is now parted. We are some in Bruges, some in Ghent: But it has pleased the Lord to leave neither without a Teacher; for John Greenwood and I are in this city; and B. Clements, and Evans, are in Ghent; — so that we trust our Lord will carry on his work in both places.

“We that are in Bruges have hired a small place, in which we meet; and our dear Lord is in the midst of us. Many times the tears run down every face, and joy reigns in every heart.

“I shall conclude with a full assurance of your prayers, with a longing desire to see you. O when will the joyful meeting be? Perhaps not on this side death: If not, my Master’s will be done. “Your unworthy brother in the Lord,

“J. H.”

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In the evening I rode to Brentford. In the inn, where I lodged the next night, was a company of men exceeding drunk. Nature suggested, “Why should you speak to them? It will be, at best, labor lost; for you may be well assured, none of them will mind one word you say.” However, we spoke a few words to them: One of them immediately rose up, and said, it was all true, followed us as well as he could into our room, and appeared deeply convinced, and strongly desirous to serve a better Master.

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In the evening we reached Bath, and the next morning rode to Bristol. After spending a few days there and at Kingswood, on Saturday, 24, I came again to London.

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I conversed with one who was greatly extolling the

comfortable way wherein the Brethren preach. I understood him well. One, who was a believer, falls into carelessness, or willful sin. If he comes to hear our preaching, then we shake all his bones in pieces. If he comes to them, they stroke him, and lull him asleep. O how does any backslider escape this comfortable preaching?

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I was with two persons who believe they are saved

from all sin. Be it so, or not, why should we not rejoice in the work of God, so far as it is unquestionably wrought in them? For instance, I ask John C., “Do you pray always? Do you rejoice in God every moment? Do you in everything give thanks? In loss? In pain? In sickness, weariness, disappointments? Do you desire nothing? Do you fear nothing? Do you feel the love of God continually in your heart? Have you a witness in whatever you speak or do, that it is pleasing to God?” If He can solemnly and deliberately answer in the affirmative, why do I not rejoice and praise God on his behalf? Perhaps, because I have an exceeding complex idea of sanctification, or a sanctified man. And so, for fear he should not have attained all I include in that idea, I cannot rejoice in what he has attained. After having often declared the same thing before many witnesses, this day Mr. Williams wrote a solemn retraction of the gross slanders he had been propagating for several months, concerning my brother and me. This he concluded in these words:

“THOUGH I doubt not but you can forgive me, yet I can hardly forgive myself; I have been so ungrateful and disobedient to the tenderest of friends, who, through the power of God, were my succor in all my temptations.

“I intreat your prayers in my behalf, that God may restore, strengthen, stablish, and settle me in the grace to which I have been called; that God may bless you, and your dear brother, and that we may be all united again in one fellowship, is the prayer of him who, for the future, hopes to be,

“Your obedient son and servant, for Christ’s sake,

“THOMAS WILLIAMS.”

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I answered another letter I had received from Flanders; an extract of which is here subjoined: —

“REV. SIR, GHENT, Nov. 12, O. S. 1744.

“WE made bold to trouble you with this, to acquaint you with some of the Lord’s dealings with us here. We have hired two rooms; one small one, wherein a few of us meet everyday at one o’clock; and another large one, for public service, where we meet twice a day, at nine in the morning, and four in the afternoon; and the hand of the Omnipotent God is with us, to the pulling down of the strong-holds of Satan.

“The seventh instant, when we were met together in the evening, as I was at prayer, one that was kneeling by me cried out, (like a woman in travail,) ‘My Redeemer! My Redeemer!’ which continued about ten minutes. When he was asked what was the matter, he said he had found that which he had often heard of; that is, a heaven upon earth: And some others had much ado to forbear crying out in the same manner.

“Dear Sir; I am a stranger to you in the flesh. I know not if I have seen you above once; when I saw you preaching on

Kennington-Common: And then I hated you as much as now (by the grace of God) I love you. The Lord pursued me with convictions, from my infancy; and I often made abundance of good resolutions: But finding, as often, that I could not keep them, (as being made wholly in my own strength,) I at length left off all striving, and gave myself over to all manner of lewdness and profaneness. So I continued for some years, till the battle of Dettingen. The balls came then very thick; about me, and my comrades fell on every side. Yet I was preserved unhurt. A few days after this, the Lord was pleased to visit me again. ‘The pains of hell get hold upon me, the snares of death encompassed me.’ I durst no longer commit any outward sin; and I prayed God to be merciful to my soul. Now I was at a loss for books: But God took care for this also. One day, as I was at work, I found an old Bible in one of the train wagons. To read this, I soon forsook my old companions, all but one, who was still a thorn in my flesh: But, not long after, he sickened and died.

“My Bible was now my only companion; and I believed myself a very good Christian, till we came to winter-quarters, where I met with John Haime: But I was soon sick of his company; for he robbed me of my treasure; he stole away my gods, telling me, I and my works were going to hell together. This was strange doctrine to me, who, being wholly ignorant of the righteousness of Christ, sought only to establish my own righteousness: And being naturally of a stubborn temper, my poor brother was so perplexed with me, that sometimes he was resolved (as he afterwards told me) to forbid my coming to him any more.

“When the Lord had at length opened my eyes, and shown me that by grace we are saved through faith, I began immediately to declare it to others, though I had not as yet experienced it myself. But, October 23d, as William Clements was at prayer, I felt on a sudden a great alteration in my soul. My eyes overflowed with tears of love. I knew I was, through Christ, reconciled to God, which inflamed my soul with fervent love to Him, whom I now saw to be my complete Redeemer.

“O the tender care of Almighty God in bringing up his children! How are we bound to love so indulgent a Father, and to fall down in wonder and adoration of his great and glorious name, for his tender mercies! — Dear Sir, I beg you will pray for him who is not worthy to be a door-keeper to the least of my Master’s servants, “John Evans.”

He continued both to preach and to live the Gospel, till the battle of Fontenoy. One of his companions saw him there, laid across a cannon, both his legs having been taken off by a chain-shot, praising God, and exhorting all that were round about him; which he did till his spirit returned to God.

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In the evening I rode to Brentford. Many poor wretches

endeavored to make a disturbance, just as I began to preach, and employed one of their number, one utterly void of shame, to lead the way: But he acted his part with so uncommon a degree both of impudence and dullness, that when I turned about, and asked to whom he belonged, his companions were ashamed to own him: So some went away, and the rest stood still; and we had a quiet and comfortable hour.

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I was unusually lifeless and heavy, till the love feast in the evening; when, just as I was constraining myself to speak, I was stopped, whether I would or no; for the blood gushed out of both my nostrils, so that I could not add another word: But in a few minutes it stayed, and all our hearts and mouths were opened to praise God.

Yet the next day I was again as a dead man; but in the evening, while I was reading Prayers at Snowsfields, I found such light and strength as I never remember to have had before. I saw every thought, as well as action or word, just as it was rising in my heart; and whether it was right before God, or tainted with pride or selfishness. I never knew before (I mean not as at this time) what it was “to be still before God.”

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I waked, by the grace of God, in the same spirit; and about eight, being with two or three that believed in Jesus, I felt such an awe and tender sense of the presence of God as greatly confirmed me therein: So that God was before me all the day long. I sought and found him in every place; and could truly say, when I lay down at night, “Now I have lived a day.”

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I called on the Solicitor whom I had employed in the suit lately commenced against me in Chancery; and here I first saw that foul monster, a Chancery Bill! A scroll it was of forty-two pages, in large folio, to tell a story which needed not to have taken up forty lines! And stuffed with such stupid, senseless, improbable lies (many of them, too, quite foreign to the question) as, I believe, would have cost the compiler his life in any Heathen Court either of Greece or Rome. And this is equity in a Christian country! This is the English method of redressing other grievances!

I conclude this year with the extract of a letter which I received some weeks before: —

“Honored Sir,

“I BEG leave to give you a short account of my experience, from the time I can remember.

“In my childhood, confused convictions often passed through my mind, so that I almost always had the fear of God before my eyes, and a sense of his seeing me; and I frequently used to abstain from sin upon that account. When I did sin, I was immediately checked and grieved; so that I generally was serious, nothing like any of my other brothers, and was, on that account, esteemed good child, and greatly caressed. I constantly said my prayers, and was much given to reading; but it was chiefly plays and romances, of which I was as fond as I was of cards, shows, races, feasts, and whatever are called innocent diversions. Yet even these were always a burden to me when over; so that I was forced to own, All these are vanity. “At about sixteen, I was sent to Yarmouth, where I fell twice or thrice into intemperance, for which I was severely reproved in my conscience; but I used to make up matters by going oftener to church: And having good health, and no care, I was generally easy in my mind, and gay and jocose in my conversation.

“In this temper, after about six months, I returned home. But a severe temptation soon following, and a severe illness in my head, made me think more and more of what is beyond the grave; this also made me exceeding diligent in prayer, till God not only restored my bodily health, but also gave me power against my inward enemy, and peace to my troubled soul.

“In half a year after, I was called to London; where, for the first year, I had little religion left, only that I never missed church. But after I was settled, conviction began to revive, particularly for sins of omission. I prayed three times in a day, and I was uneasy if I missed once. I read all books of religion that came in my way. And now, because I prayed and read so much, and went constantly to church, and sometimes to the sacrament, I thought myself in a right good way. And yet I was continually uneasy, though I knew not why; till one day I light on Thomas à Kempis. The more I read, the more I liked it. I bought one of the books, and read it over and over. I was more convinced of sin than ever and had more power against it. I forsook many things which I allowed myself in before; though I still allowed myself to see a play once a month. But the last I saw, I felt hell in my conscience, for a week after; so that I determined, even for ease, never to go again.

“I was now well settled in the form of godliness, and I knew a little of the power of it, when I was pressed by a relation, to pay him a visit at Oxford, which I did at Whitsuntide, 1742. But here I soon lost both power and form. I saw many places, was much in company, and grew more dead to the things of God, everyday than other. I was truly glad to see London again; and the very first night began to consider, how I might recover my peace. But before I had executed any thing, I was seized with a fever. I looked up to God; but all was dark. With the trouble both of my body and mind, I really thought I should have gone distracted. Yet I was too self-righteous to beg for mere mercy. All my cry was, ‘Lord, give me health; and I will obey thee.’

“God did give me health; and I was more diligent than ever in going to church and sacrament; in so much, that on a weekday, I have gone four or five times to church in a day. Yet sin was my master; although every time I fell into it I was condemned exceedingly. I began now to see, that my laughter and jesting were wrong. But I thought, if I left them, my friends would cast me off. So I went on, sinning against light, and never finding peace for one whole day together.

“One day, being in great trouble of mind, and thinking, Where shall I find a man who lives up to the rules given by Kempis? it came strongly into my mind, ‘Go to the Foundery.’ Immediately I went, but with fear and trembling. Here I continued a constant hearer for above two months, before I spoke to one person belonging to it; which I purposely abstained from, that I might the more exactly observe the whole behavior, both of yourself and those that heard you. And the more closely I examined, the more clearly I was convinced, These are the men I have been seeking so long. “At last I was admitted into the society, and, after the usual trial, into the Bands. I was now continually walking upon the wings of love. The life and power of religion was all my talk. I was not ashamed to declare it before all men; for the candle of the Lord constantly shone upon my head.

“At present, I find my soul continually hungering and thirsting after the Spirit’s indwelling in me. I often find a solid peace, a serious watchfulness, a presence of mind, never confused or hurried; a sweet communion with God, goodwill toward all men, with much grief at their misery, but no fear. I can, with unaccountable boldness yet with meekness and love, reprove the most daring sinner. And the more I obey this spirit, the more of it I feel; the more sensible I am of my own weakness, and at the same time filled with praise and amazement, to feel my strength in the Lord.

“W.B.”

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