1748

I conversed an hour with Counselor G., many years eminent for an utter disregard of all religion. He had lately contracted an acquaintance with Mr. R., in consequence of which, he soon set upon his wife. She told him, “Sir, here is a fuller answer to your objections, than I am able to give;” and desired him seriously to read the “Earnest Appeal.” He did so, and was thoroughly convinced that there is reality in religion. I believe he told me all that was in his heart. He stayed till the watch-night service was ended, and appeared much affected. Let but a little seed be sown, and God is able to give it an increase.

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Upon reviewing the account of the sick, we found great reason to praise God. Within the year, about three hundred persons had received medicines occasionally. About one hundred had regularly taken them, and submitted to a proper regimen: More than ninety of these were entirely cured of diseases they had long labored under. And the expense of medicines for the entire year amounted to some shillings above forty pounds.

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I made a public collection towards a lending-stock for the poor. Our rule is, to lend only twenty shillings at once, which is repaid weekly within three months. I began this about a year and a half ago: Thirty pounds sixteen shillings were then collected; and out of this, no less than two hundred and fifty-five persons have been relieved in eighteen months. Dr. W., hearing of this design, sent a guinea toward it; as did an eminent Deist the next morning.

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I preached at four; and afterwards set out for Brentford. Thence I rode to Windsor, and preached about noon. We lodged at Morrel-Green, and came to Fisherton on Tuesday, about two o’clock. Mr. Hall, having heard I was coming, had given strict orders that no one should be let in. The inner door he had locked himself, and (I suppose) taken away the key. Yet when we knocked at the outer gate, which was locked also, William Sims opened the wicket. I walked straight in. A girl stood in the gateway, but turned as soon as she saw me. I followed close at her heels, and went in after her, at a back door. I asked the maid, “Where is Mr. Hall?” She said, “In the parlor,” and went in to him. I followed her, and found him sitting with my sister: But he presently rose and went up stairs. He then sent William Sims down, and bid him, “Tell my brother, he has no business in my house.” After a few minutes, I went to a house in the town, and my sister came to me. In about an hour, she returned home; but he sent word to the gate, she might go to the place whence she came. I met a little company, gathered up out of the wreck, both in the evening and at five in the morning, and exhorted them to go on in the Bible way, and not to be wise above that is written.

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I commended them to the grace of God, and set out for

Deverel Long-Bridge. About ten o’clock we were met by a loaded wagon, in a deep, hollow way. There was a narrow path between the road and the bank; I stepped into this, and John Trembath followed me. When the wagon came near, my horse began to rear, and to attempt climbing up the bank. This frighted the horse which was close behind, and made him prance and throw his head to and fro, till the bit of the bridle catched hold of the cape of my great coat, and pulled me backward off my horse. I fell as exact on the path, between the wagon and the bank, as if one had taken me in his arms and laid me down there. Both our horses stood stock still, one just behind me, the other before; so, by the blessing of God, I rose unhurt, mounted again, and rode on.

At twelve I preached at Deverel; in the evening at Bearfield; and on Friday, 29, came to Bristol.

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I received an account of Mr. Towers, of Leeds, who

had even prayed that he might not know his sins forgiven, as believing it was the highest presumption. But, notwithstanding this, as he lay one night upon his bed, he did receive the knowledge of salvation by the remission of sins: And he declared it boldly to the confusion, at least, if not conviction, of those who denied the truth.

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I preached at eight in the morning at Bath, and in the evening at Coleford. The colliers of this place were “darkness” indeed; but now they are “light in the Lord.”

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I met about sixty of the society in Bristol, to consult about enlarging the Room; and indeed securing it, for there was no small danger of its falling upon our heads. In two or three days, two hundred and thirty pounds were subscribed. We immediately procured experienced builders to make an estimate of the expense: And I appointed five Stewards (besides those of the society) to superintend the work.

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After preaching at Oakhill about noon, I rode to Shepton, and found them all under a strange consternation. A mob, they said, was hired, prepared, and made sufficiently drunk, in order to do all manner of mischief. I began preaching between four and five: None hindered or interrupted at all. We had a blessed opportunity, and the hearts of many were exceedingly comforted. I wondered what was become of the mob. But we were quickly informed, they mistook the place, imagining I should alight (as I used to do) at William Stone’s house, and had summoned, by drum, all their forces together, to meet me at my coming: But Mr. Swindells innocently carrying me to the other end of the town, they did not find their mistake till I had done preaching; so that the hindering this, which was one of their designs, was utterly disappointed. However, they attended us from the preaching-house to William Stone’s, throwing dirt, stones, and clods in abundance; but they could not hurt us; only Mr. Swindells had a little dirt on his coat, and I a few specks on my hat.

After we were gone into the house, they began throwing great stones, in order to break the door. But perceiving this would require some time, they dropped that design for the present. They first broke all the tiles on the penthouse over the door, and then poured in a shower of stones at the windows. One of their captains, in his great zeal, had followed us into the house, and was now shut in with us. He did not like this, and would fain have got out; but it was not possible; so he kept as close to me as he could, thinking himself safe when he was near me. But, staying a little behind, — when I went up two pair of stairs, and stood close on one side, where we were a little sheltered, — a large stone struck him on the forehead, and the blood spouted out like a stream. He cried out, “O Sir, are we to die tonight? What must I do? What must I do?” I said, “Pray to God. He is able to deliver you from all danger.” He took my advice, and began praying in such a manner as he had scarce done ever since he was born.

Mr. Swindells and I then went to prayer; after which I told him, “We must not stay here we must go upon immediately.” He said, “Sir, we cannot stir; you see how the stones fly about.” I walked straight through the room, and down the stairs; and not a stone came in, till we were at the bottom. The mob had just broke open the door when we came into the lower room; and exactly while they burst in at one door, we walked out at the other. Nor did one man take any notice of us, though we were within five yards of each other.

They filled the house at once, and proposed setting it on fire. But one of them, happening to remember that his own house was next, with much ado persuaded them not to do it. Hearing one of them cry out, “They are gone over the grounds,” I thought the advice was good; so we went over the grounds, to the farther end of the town, where Abraham Jenkins waited, and undertook to guide us to Oakhill.

I was riding on in Shepton-Lane, it being now quite dark, when he cried out, “Come down: Come down from the bank.” I did as I was bid; but the bank being high, and the side very near perpendicular, I came down all at once, my horse and I tumbling one over another. But we both rose unhurt. In less than an hour we came to Oakhill, and the next morning to Bristol.

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At seven I preached at Bedminster. At Kingswood I began between eight and nine; at Connam about two; (where I read prayers also;) and in Bristol at five. After the society was the love-feast; at which my soul was refreshed; but my body was worn-out, so that I could hardly speak to be heard: Nor did I recover my voice for several days.

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I set out for Ireland. We came to the New-Passage at ten. After waiting about five hours, we found, (which they did not care to confess,) that the boatmen did not dare to venture out. It blew a storm. We then rode to the Old-Passage; but the boat was just gone off.

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They talked of passing early; but the storm was too high. I then walked to Aust, where I preached about ten, to a small, serious congregation. Between four and five, the wind somewhat abating, a boat ventured out and carried us over. We passed through Chepstow soon after sunset, and pushed n; though it grew dark, and the untracked snow lay thick upon the ground. About eight we reached the Star, a good, though small inn, five long miles from Chepstow.

It snowed all night. On Wednesday, 17, we set out before day; but found it bad traveling, there being no path to be seen, neither footstep of man or beast. However, in four or five hours, we reached Abergavenny; and Brecknock before three in the afternoon.

Our landlady here almost forced us to take a guide. And it was extremely well she did; for the snow had so entirely covered the roads, that our guide himself mistook the way more than once. So that if he had not been with us, we should, without doubt, have lodged upon the mountains. I preached in the evening at Builth, and at noon the next day; at Garth in the evening, and twice on Friday.

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I preached in Maesmennys church in the after noon; at Garth morning and evening.

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I preached in the morning in Lanzunfried church. The service at Builth was not over till past two; I then began in the churchyard, not with standing the northeast wind, to call sinners to repentance. More than all the town were gathered together in that pleasant vale, and made the woods and mountains echo while they sung,

Ye mountains and vales, In praises abound;

Ye hills and ye dales, Continue the sound;

Break forth into singing, Ye trees of the wood;

For Jesus is bringing Lost sinners to God.

In the evening I preached again at Garth, and on Monday, 22, at five in the morning. A little before sunrise we took horse, it being a clear, sharp frost. We had waited four days in hopes the snow would melt, fearing the drifts of it would lie deep upon the mountains, particularly as we journeyed northward; but quite contrary to our expectation, the farther northward we went, the less snow we found, so that it scarce hindered us after the first day. About eleven we came to Llanidlocs. At the earnest request of one who lived there, I preached at noon in the market-place, to such a congregation as no one could expect at an hour’s warning. It was as much as we could do to reach Machynlleth that night. It snowed again from about midnight till morning; so that no path was to be seen for several miles. However, we found our way to Tannabull, and passed the sands in the afternoon, being determined to reach Carnarvon, if possible. And so we did, notwithstanding my horse’s losing a shoe; but not till between nine and ten at night.

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We hastened on to Holyhead; but all the ships were on the other side.

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No packet-boat being come, I gave notice of preaching in the evening. The hearers were many more than the room could contain, and they all behaved with decency.

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I preached again in the evening. Mr. E., the Minister, came in towards the close. He was speaking warmly to our landlord, when Mr. Swindells went to him, and spoke a few mild words. Mr. E. asked him to step with him to his lodgings, where they had a long and friendly conversation.

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Mr. Swindells informed me, that Mr. E. would take it a favor if I would write some little thing, to advise the Methodists not to leave the Church, and not to rail at their Ministers. I sat down immediately and wrote, “A Word to a Methodist,”’ which Mr. E. translated into Welsh, and printed.

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In the evening I read Prayers at our inn and preached to a large and serious audience. I did the same on Monday and Tuesday evening. Perhaps our stay here may not be in vain.

I never knew men make such poor, lame excuses, as these Captains did for not sailing. It put me in mind of the epigram,

There are, if rightly I methink,

Five causes why a man should drink;

which, with a little alteration, would just suit them: — There are, unless my memory fail,

Five causes why we should not sail:

The fog is thick; the wind is high;

It rains; or may do by-and-by;

Or — any other reason why.

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Finding no more probability of sailing now than the

first day we came to Holyhead, we rode into the country to see for Mr. William Jones, who had some acquaintance with my brother. We procured a guide to show us the way to his house; but all we learned there was, that he was not at home. We lodged at the Bull’s head: All the family came up to prayers, and we had a quiet and comfortable night.

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Mr. Holloway, a neighboring Exciseman, invited us to

breakfast with him. He once began to run well; and now resolved to set out afresh: I trust we were sent to him for good.

His wife bitterly opposed this way, till, one day, as she was sitting in her house, a flash of lightning killed a cat which sat just by her, and struck her to the earth, scorching her flesh in many parts, and yet not at all singeing her clothes. When she came to herself, she could not but acknowledge the loud call of God: But her seriousness did not continue long; her acquaintance soon laughed her out of it.

Yet God called her again, in dreams and visions of the night. She thought she was standing in the open air, when one appeared in the clouds exceeding glorious, above the brightness of the sun: She soon after saw a second, and then a third. One had a kind of spear in his hand; the second, a besom, wherewith he was going to sweep the earth; the third, an hourglass, as though the time was short. This so deeply affected her, that she began from that time, to seek God with her whole heart.

At noon we went to Mr. Morgan’s, where I lodged in August last. About two we met Mr. Jones and Mr. Williams, a Clergyman from South Wales, at Ryd-y-Spardon. After Mr. W. had preached in Welsh, I preached in English. Many understood me, and felt the power of God.

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We went to Llandaniel, a mile or two from Baldon-Ferry. Here again Mr. W. preached in Welsh, and I in English. I was much pleased with this loving, artless people, and readily complied with their request, of preaching again in the afternoon.

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At two I preached at Ryd-y-Spardon, to a little, earnest company, who were ready to devour every word. We spent the evening very agreeably with Mr. Jones, at Trefollwin.

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We went to Langefnye church, though we understood little of what we heard. O what a heavy curse was the confusion of tongues! And how grievous are the effects of it! All the birds of the air, all the beasts of the field, understand the language of their own species. Man only is a barbarian to man, unintelligible to his own brethren!

In the afternoon I preached at Llanfehengel, about six miles southwest of Llangefnye. I have not seen a people so deeply affected since we came into Anglesey; their cries and tears continued a long time without any intermission. O that we could declare to them, in their own tongue, the wonderful works of God!

In the evening I preached at Llanygorse. When I had done, Mr. Jones repeated in Welsh, (as he likewise did in the afternoon,) the substance of what I had said. The next morning we returned to Holyhead, and found there all the packet-boats which we had left.

I was determined not to stay another day at an inn; so in the afternoon I took a lodging in a private house, not a bow-shot distant from the town, and removed thither without delay.

My congregation this evening was larger than ever; and several of the Gentry agreed to come the next, but it was a little too late; for at midnight the wind became fair, and before one we sailed out of the harbor.

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Having a gentle gale, it soon lulled me fast asleep. I was waked before five by a violent storm: This continued two or three hours longer, and left us within sight of Howth, with a small breeze, which brought us to the Black-Rock about four in the afternoon.

We hired horses here, and rode to Dublin.; Mr. Meriton, Swindells, and I. We came to our House, in Cork-Street, (vulgarly called Dolphin’s barn-lane,) while my brother was meeting the society. But it was some time before my voice could be heard for the noise of the people, shouting and praising God. The remaining days of the week, I despatched all the business I could, and settled with my brother all things relating to the work.

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My brother preached both morning and evening, expecting to sail at night. But before night the wind turned full east, and so continued all the week.

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I began preaching at five in the morning; — an unheard-of thing in Ireland. I expounded part of the first chapter of the Acts; which I purpose, God willing, to go through in order.

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I inquired into the state of the society. Most pompous

accounts had been sent me, from time to time, of the great numbers that were added to it; so that I confidently expected to find therein six or seven hundred members. And how is the real fact? I left three hundred and ninety-four members; and I doubt if there are now three hundred and ninety-six!

Let this be a warning to us all, how we give in to that hateful custom of painting things beyond the life. Let us make a conscience of magnifying or exaggerating any thing. Let us rather speak under, than above, the truth. We, of all men, should be punctual in all we say; that none of our words may fall to the ground.

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I preached at eight, on Oxmantown-Green. We expected noise; but there was none: The whole congregation was as quiet and still as that in Bristol or London.

In the afternoon my brother embarked. I preached about three in Marlborough-Street; and in the evening, at our own House, in Cork-Street.

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I talked with a warm man, who was always very zealous for the Church, when he was very drunk, and just able to stammer out the Irish proverb, “No gown, no crown.” He was quickly convinced, that, whatever we were, he was himself a child of the devil. We left him full of good resolutions, which holden several days.

I preached at Newgate at three; but found no stirring at all among the dry bones.

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I preached in Marlborough-Street at five, to the largest congregation I have yet seen in a morning. At two I began in Ship-Street, where were many of the rich and genteel. I was exceeding weak in body, having been examining classes all the day; but I felt it not after I had spoke two sentences. I was strengthened both in body and soul. I finished the classes the next day, and found them just as I expected. I left three hundred and ninety-four persons united together in August; I had now admitted between twenty and thirty, who had offered themselves since my return to Dublin; and the whole number was neither more nor less than three hundred and ninety-six.

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It rained most of the day, so that I was constrained to preach in the house only; viz., at our own House, morning and evening, and at Marlborough-Street in the afternoon.

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I preached in Skinner’s Alley, at five, to a large and quiet congregation. I preached in Newgate at two, in the Common Hall, the jailer refusing us the room where we used to preach. But that is not the worst: — I see no fruit of our labor.

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I rode to Philip’s Town, the shire-town of the King’s county. I was obliged to go into the street, which was soon filled with those who flocked from every side; to whom I declared Jesus Christ, our “wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.”

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One would have dissuaded me from preaching at five, being sure none would rise so soon. But I kept my hour, and had a large and serious congregation. After preaching I spoke severally to those of the society, of whom forty were troopers. At noon I preached to (I think) the largest congregation I had seen since I came from Builth. God did then make a clear offer of eternal life to all the inhabitants of Philip’s Town. But how few retained these good impressions one week; or would effectually come to him that they might have life!

In the evening I preached at Tullamore, to most of the inhabitants of the town. Abundance of them came again at five in the morning. But “he that endureth to the end shall be saved.”

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I preached at Clara, to a vast number of well-behaved

people; although some of them came in their coaches, and were (I was informed) of the best quality in the country. How few of these would have returned empty, if they had heard the word of God, not out of curiosity merely, but from a real desire to know and do his will!

In the evening I preached at Temple-Macqueteer, and again at five in the morning. About one (Saturday, 2) we came to Moat, — the pleasantest town I have yet seen in Ireland. Here I preached to an handful of serious people, and then hastened on to Athlone. At six I preached from the window of an unfinished house, opposite to the Market-House, (which would not have contained one-half of the congregation,) on, “Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.” I scarce ever saw a better-behaved or more attentive congregation. Indeed, so civil a people as the Irish in general, I never saw, either in Europe or America.

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I preached at five to, at least, three hundred hearers. I walked from thence to see a poor woman that was sick, about a mile from the town. About an hundred and fifty people ran after me. After I had prayed with the sick person, being unwilling so many people should go empty away, I chose a smooth, grassy place, near the road, where we all kneeled down to prayer; after which we sung a psalm, and I gave them a short exhortation. At eleven we went to church, and heard a plain, useful sermon. At two I preached on the Connaught side of the bridge, where there are only (they informed me) five or six families of Protestants. Such a company of people (many said) had never before been seen at Athlone; many coming from all the country round, and (for the present) receiving the word with joy. I preached again, at six, in the same place, and to nearly the same (only a little larger) congregation; the greater part whereof (notwithstanding the prohibition of their Priests) I afterward found were Papists.

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I preached once more at five, and a great part of the

congregation was in tears. Indeed almost all the town appeared to be moved, full of goodwill and desires of salvation. But the waters spread too wide to be deep. I found not one under any strong conviction; much less had any one attained the knowledge of salvation, in hearing above thirty sermons. So that, as yet, no judgment could be formed of the future work of God in this place.

I took horse at ten, and about twelve preached at Moat, to a little larger congregation than before. I could not but observe the zeal of these young disciples. They were vehemently angry at a man’s throwing a cabbage stalk. Let them keep their courage till they see such a sight as that at Walsal or Shepton.

In the evening I preached at Tyrrel’s Pass, and found great enlargement of heart. But when the society met, I was quite exhausted; so that I dismissed them after a short exhortation.

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Our Room was filled at five. After preaching I examined the classes. I found a surprising openness among them. When I asked one in particular, how he had lived in time past; he spread abroad his hands, and said, with many tears, “Here I stand, a gray-headed monster of all manner of wickedness;” which, I verily believe, had it been desired, he would have explained before them all. Much in the same manner spoke one who came from Connaught; but with huge affliction and dismay. We determined to wrestle with God in her behalf; which we did for above an hour: And he heard the prayer; so that her soul was filled with joy unspeakable. Mr. Jonathan Handy, greatly sorrowing before, was also now enabled to rejoice in God; and four other persons were cut to the heart, and cried aloud to Him that is mighty to save.

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I baptized seven persons educated among the Quakers. In the afternoon we rode to Philip’s Town; but the scene was changed. The curiosity of the people was satisfied; and few of them cared to hear any more.

As soon as I mounted my horse, he began to snort and run backward without any visible cause. One whipped him behind, and I before; but it profited nothing. He leaped to and fro, from side to side, till he came over against a gateway, into which he ran backward, and tumbled head over heels. I rose unhurt. He then went on quietly.

At Tullamore, in the evening, well-nigh all the town, rich and poor, were gathered together. I used great plainness of speech, in applying those words, “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” The next day, being Good Friday, I preached at five to a large and serious congregation. Between one and two I preached at Clara, and then rode to Athlone. I preached at six, on, “Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and after that to enter into his glory?” So general a drawing I never knew among any people; so that, as yet, none even seems to oppose the truth.

Sat.. 9. — I preached in Connaught, a few miles from Athlone. Many heard; but, I doubt, felt nothing.

The Shannon comes within a mile of the house where I preached. I think there is not such another river in Europe: It is here ten or twelve miles over, though scarce thirty miles from its fountain-head. There are many islands in it, once well inhabited, but now mostly desolate. In almost every one is the ruins of a church: In one, the remains of no less than seven. I fear, God hath still a controversy with this land, because it is defiled with blood.

APRIL 10. — (Easter-Day.) Never was such a congregation seen before at the sacrament in Athlone. I preached at three. Abundance of Papists flocked to hear; so that the Priest, seeing his command did not avail, came in person at six, and drove them away before him like a flock of sheep.

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I preached, at five, the terrors of the Lord, in the strongest manner I was able. But still they who are ready to eat up every word, do not appear to digest any part of it.

In the evening there appeared more emotion in the congregation than ever I had seen before. But it was in a manner I never saw; not in one here and there, but in all. Perhaps God is working here in a way we have not known, going on with a slow and even motion through the whole body of the people, that they may all remember themselves and be turned unto the Lord.

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I rode to Clara, where I was quickly informed, that there was to begin in an hour’s time a famous cockfight, to which almost all the country was coming from every side. Hoping to engage some part of them in a better employ, I began preaching in the street, as soon as possible. One or two hundred stopped, and listened awhile, and pulled off their hats, and forgot their diversion.

The congregation at Tullamore in the evening was larger than ever before, and deep attention sat on every face. Toward the latter end of the sermon, there began a violent storm of hail. I desired the people to cover their heads; but the greater part of them would not; nor did any one go away till I concluded my discourse.

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I preached in the evening at Tyrrel’s Pass. The congregation here also was larger than ever; and the word of God seemed to take deeper root here than in any other part of this country.

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The House was full at five. In the evening, many of the neighboring Gentlemen were present, but none mocked. That is not the custom here; all attend to what is spoken in the name of God; they do not understand the making sport with sacred things; so that whether they approve or no, they behave with seriousness.

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I rode to Edinderry. Abundance of people were quickly

gathered together. Having been disturbed in the night by Mr. Swindells, who lay with me, and had a kind of apoplectic fit, I was not at all well about noon, when I began to preach, in a large walk, on one side of the town, and the sun shone hot upon my head, which had been aching all the day; but I forgot this before I had spoken long; and when I had finished my discourse, I left all my weariness and pain behind, and rode on, in perfect health, to Dublin.

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I found great reason to praise God for the work wrought among the people in my absence. But still there is no such work as I look for. I see nothing yet but drops before a shower.

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I preached at Skinner’s Alley, both morning and evening. About four I went to St. Luke’s church, being very near us. When I came out, I had a large attendance, even in the churchyard, hallooing and calling names. I am much mistaken, if many of the warmest zealots for the Church would ever come within the doors, if they were thus to run the gauntlet every time they came. Would they not rather sleep in a whole skin?

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I spent an agreeable hour with Mr. Miller, the Lutheran Minister. From him I learned that the earnest religion which I found in so many parts of Germany is but of late date, having taken its rise from one man, August Herman Francke! So can God, if it pleaseth him, enable one man to revive his work throughout a whole nation.

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I read, some hours, an extremely dull book, Sir James Ware’s “Antiquities of Ireland.” By the vast number of ruins which are seen in all parts, I had always suspected what he shows at large, namely, that in ancient times it was more populous, tenfold, than it is now; many that were large cities, being now ruinous heaps; many shrunk into inconsiderable villages.

I visited one in the afternoon who was ill of a fever, and lay in a very close room. While I was near him, I found myself not well. After my return home, I felt my stomach out of order. But I imagined it was not worth any notice, and would pass off before the morning.

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I preached at Skinner’s Alley at five; and on

Oxmantown-Green at eight. I was weak in body, but was greatly revived by the seriousness and earnestness of the congregation. Resolving to improve the opportunity, I gave notice of preaching there again in the afternoon; which I did to a congregation much more numerous, and equally attentive. As I came home I was glad to lie down, having a quinsy, attended with a fever. However, when the society met, I made a shift to creep in among them. Immediately my voice was restored. I spoke without pain, for near an hour together. And great was our rejoicing over each other; knowing that God would order all things well.

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Finding my fever greatly increased, I judged it would be best to keep my bed, and to live awhile on apples and apple tea. On Tuesday, I was quite well, and should have preached, but that Dr. Rutty (who had been with me twice) insisted on my resting for a time.

I read today what is accounted the most correct history of St. Patrick that is extant; and, on the maturest consideration, I was much inclined to believe, that St. Patrick and St. George were of one family. The whole story smells strong of romance. To touch only on a few particulars: — I object to his first setting out: The Bishop of Rome had no such power in the beginning of the fifth century as this account supposes; nor would his uncle, the Bishop of Tours, have sent him in that age to Rome for a commission to convert Ireland, having himself as much authority over that land as any Italian Bishop whatever. Again, if God had sent him thither, he would not so long have buried his talent in the earth. I never heard before of an Apostle sleeping thirty-five years, and beginning to preach at three-score. But his success staggers me the most of all: No blood of the Martyrs is here; no reproach, no scandal of the Cross; no persecution to those that will live godly. Nothing is to be heard of, from the beginning to the end, but Kings, nobles, warriors, bowing down before him. Thousands are converted, without any opposition at all; twelve thousand at one sermon. If these things were so, either there was then no devil in the world, or St. Patrick did not preach the Gospel of Christ.

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In the evening I read the letters; my voice being weak, but I believe audible. As I was reading one from S. G., a young woman dropped down, and cried out exceedingly; but in a few minutes her sorrow was turned into joy, and her mourning into praise.

Thursday, 28, was the day fixed for my going into the country: But all about me began to cry out, “Sure, you will not go today? See how the rain pours down!” I told them, “I must keep my word, if possible.” But before five, the man of whom I had bespoke an horse sent word, his horse should not go out in such a day. I sent one who brought him to a better mind. So about six I took horse. About nine I called at Killcock: The old landlord was ill of the gout, and his wife of a complication of distempers: But when I told her, “The Lord loveth whom he chasteneth, and all these are tokens of his love,” she burst out, “O Lord, I offer thee all my sufferings, my pain, my sickness! If thou lovest me, it is enough. Here I am: Take me, and do with me what thou wilt.”

Between one and two we came to Kinnegad. My strength was now pretty well exhausted; so that when we mounted again, after resting an hour, it was as much as I could do to sit my horse. We had near eleven Irish (measured) miles to ride, which are equal to fourteen English. I got over them pretty well in three hours, and by six reached Tyrrel’s Pass. At seven I recovered my strength, so as to preach and meet the society; which began now to be at a stand, with regard to number, but not with regard to the grace of God.

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I rode to Temple-Macqueteer, and thence toward Athlone. We came at least an hour before we were expected. Nevertheless we were met by many of our brethren. The first I saw about two miles from the town, were a dozen little boys running with all their might, some bare-headed, some bare-footed and bare-legged: So they had their desire of speaking to me first, the others being still behind.

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I found the roaring lion began to shake himself here also. Some Papists, and two or three good Protestant families, were cordially joined together, to oppose the work of God; but they burst not yet do it openly, the stream running to strongs against them.

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Great part of the town was present at five, and, I found, began to feel what was spoken. Yet still the impression is not made, as in other places, on one here and there only; but the main body of the hearers seem to go on together with an even pace.

About two I preached on the Connaught side of the bridge, to an attentive multitude both of Protestants and Papists, whose Priest, perceiving he profited nothing, at five came himself. I preached on, “Is there no balm in Gilead?” and could not help applying to the Papists in particular. I am satisfied many of them were almost persuaded to give themselves up to the great Physician of souls.

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I rode to Birr, twenty miles from Athlone, and, the key of the Sessions-House not being to be found, declared “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ” in the street, to a dull, rude, senseless multitude. Many laughed the greater part of the time. Some went away just in the middle of a sentence. And yet when one cried out, (a Carmelite Friar, Clerk to the Priest,) “You lie! you lie!” the zealous Protestants cried out, “Knock him down:” And it was no sooner said than done. I saw some bustle, but knew not what was the matter, till the whole was over.

In the evening we rode to Balliboy. There being no house that could contain the congregation, I preached here also in the street. I was afraid, in a new place, there would be but few in the morning; but there was a considerable number, and such a blessing as I had scarce found since I landed in Ireland.

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I rode to Clara, and preached to a small company, who were not afraid of a stormy day. I spent half an hour after sermon with a few serious people, and then rode to Tullamore.

One who looks on the common Irish cabins, might imagine Saturn still reigned here: —

Cum frigida parvas

Praeberet spelunca domos; ignemque laremque,

Et pecus et dominos, communi clauderet umbra. 4

Communi umbra indeed: For no light can come into the earth or straw-built cavern, on the master and his cattle, but at one hole; which is both window, chimney, and door.

In the evening I preached to a large, quiet congregation; though not so large as the last.

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Though my flux continually increased, (which was caused by my eating a bad egg at Birr,) yet I was unwilling to break my word, and so made shift to ride in the afternoon to Mountmelick. I had not seen such a congregation before since I set out from Dublin: And the greater part did not stand like stocks and stones; but seemed to understand what I spake of worshipping God “in spirit and in truth.”

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More people came at five than I had seen at that hour in any part of Ireland: And I found my heart so moved towards them, that, in spite of weakness and pain, I enforced, for more than an hour, those solemn words, “The kingdom of God is at hand: Repent ye, and believe the Gospel.”

Hence I rode to Philip’s Town, — a poor, dry, barren, place. I pray God the first may not be last.

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I set out in the morning, and after resting two hours at

Tullamore, and two or three more at Moat, I rode on to Athlone, and preached at six, on, “He healeth them that are broken in heart.” I felt no weariness or pain till I had done speaking; but then found I could not meet the society, being ill able to walk the length of the room: But God gave me refreshing sleep.

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I preached at five, though I could not well stand. I then set out for Aghrim, in the county of Galway, thirteen Connaught (that is, Yorkshire) miles from Athlone. The Morning Prayers (so called) began about twelve; after which we had a warm sermon against enthusiasts. I could not have come at a better time: For I began immediately after; and all that were in the church, high and low, rich and poor, stopped to hear me. In explaining the inward kingdom of God, I had a fair occasion to consider what we had just heard; and God renewed my strength, and, I trust, applied his word to the hearts of most of the hearers. Mr. S., a neighboring Justice of Peace, as soon as I had done, desired me to dine with him. After dinner, I hastened back to Athlone, and began preaching about six: Five Clergymen were of the audience, and abundance of Romanists. Such an opportunity I never had before in these parts.

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Having not had an hour’s sound sleep, from the time I lay down till I rose, I was in doubt whether I could preach or not: However, I went to the Market-place as usual, and found no want of strength, till I had fully declared “the redemption that is in Jesus Christ.” I had designed, afterwards, to settle the society thoroughly; but I was not able to sit up so long.

Many advised me not to go out at night, the wind being extremely cold and blustering. But I could in no wise consent to spare myself, at such a time as this. I preached on, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden.” And I found myself at least as well when I had done, as I was before I begun.

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With much difficulty I broke away from this immeasurably loving people; and not so soon as I imagined neither; for when we drew near to the turnpike, about a mile from the town, a multitude waited for us at the top of the hill. They fell back on each side, to make us way, and then joined and closed us in. After singing two or three verses, I put forward, when, on a sudden, I was a little surprised by such a cry of men, women, and children, as I never heard before. Yet a little while, and we shall meet, to part no more; and sorrow and sighing shall flee away for ever.

Instead of going straight to Tullamore, I could not be easy without going round by Coolylough; I knew not why; for I did not know then that Mr. Handy’s wife, who had been brought to bed a few days, had an earnest desire to see me once more before I left the kingdom. She could not avoid praying for it, though her sister checked her again and again, telling her, it could not be. Before the debate was concluded, I came in: So they wondered, and praised God.

In the evening I preached at Tullamore, and at five in the morning. I was then glad to lie down. In the afternoon, Wednesday, 11, I rode once more to Mountmelick. The congregation, both in the evening and the next morning, was larger than before.

After preaching, a gray headed man came to me, bitterly lamenting, that he had lived many years without knowing that he had need of a Physician. Immediately came another, who had been a harmless man as any in the town: He would have spoke, but could not. I then spoke to him; but not two minutes before he sunk to the ground. So I perceived I had not spent my little strength here “as one that beateth the air.”

I took the straight road from hence to Dublin. Here likewise I observed abundance of ruined buildings; but I observed also, that some of them were never finished; and some had been pulled down by those who built them. Such is the amazing fickleness of this people. Almost every one who has his fortune in his own hands diruit, aedificat, mutat quadrata rotundis; 5 and leaves those monuments of his folly to all succeeding generations. I reached Dublin in the evening, faint and weary; but the two next days I rested.

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Finding my strength greatly restored, I preached at five, and at eight on Oxmantown Green. I expected to sail as soon as I had done; but the Captain putting it off, (as their manner is,) gave me an opportunity of declaring the Gospel of peace to a still larger congregation in the evening. One of them, after listening some time, cried out, shaking his head, “Ay, he is a Jesuit; that’s plain.” To which a Popish Priest, who happened to be near, replied aloud, “No, he is not; I would to God he was.”

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Observing a large congregation in the evening, and many strangers among them, I preached more roughly than ever I had done in Dublin, on those awful words, “What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”

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I spoke strong and plain words again, both in the morning and evening; and should not have regretted my being detained, had it been only for the blessings of this day.

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We took ship. The wind was small in the afternoon, but exceeding high towards night. About eight I laid me down on the quarterdeck. I was soon wet from head to foot, but I took no cold at all. About four in the morning we landed at Holyhead, and in the evening reached Carnarvon.

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I rode with Mr. C. Perronet to Machynlleth, and the next day, Saturday, 21, to Builth. I had no desire to go further, as it rained hard; but Mr. Philips pressed us to go on to Garth. We came thither just as they were singing before family prayer; so I took the book, and preached on those words, “Behold, to fear the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil, that is understanding.”

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At eight I preached at Garth, afterwards in Maesmennys

church, and at Built in the afternoon. We proposed going this evening to John Price’s at Mertha; but hearing he might be as the society, (two miles from his house,) we went round that way, and came while the exhorter was in the midst of his sermon. I preached when he had done. About eight we came to Mertha, and slept in peace.

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We were on horseback at four o’clock; and at four in the afternoon came to Cardiff. The rain obliged me to preach in the Room.

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I breakfasted at Fonmon, dined at Wenvo, and preached at Cardiff in the evening. Wednesday, 25. We set out after preaching, and in the afternoon came to Bristol.

Whit-Sunday, MAY 29. — Our first service began about four, at the Weavers’ Hall. At seven I preached in the Old Orchard. At ten I began in Kingswood; where, at two, (the house being too small for the congregation,) I preached under the sycamore tree. At five I preached in the Old Orchard, and then rode to Kingswood; where we concluded the day with a lovefeast.

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I preached at three in the Old Orchard, and in the evening at Bath. Tuesday, 31. In the evening I preached at Reading, and Wednesday, JUNE 1, I reached London.

We had an exceeding solemn meeting of the Bands this evening, and of the societies the next.

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I was sent for by Captain H., one who had been strongly prejudiced against us. But the arrows of the Almighty now constrained him to cry out, “Lord, send by whom thou wilt send!”

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I preached in Moorfields both morning and evening. There had been much tumult there the last Sunday; but all was quiet now; and the power of God seemed even to compel sinners to come in.

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I designed preaching in the fields at seven; but the thunder, and lightning, and rain prevented. At eleven I preached in St. Bartholomew’s church. Deep attention sat on every face, while I explained, and by the grace of God pressed home, those words, “Thou art not far from the kingdom of God.”

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I spent an hour or two with Dr. Pepusch. He asserted, that the art of music is lost; that the ancients only understood it in its perfection; that it was revived a little in the reign of King Henry VIII., by Tallys and his cotemporaries; as also in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, who was a judge and patroness of it; that after her reign it sunk for sixty or seventy years, till Purcell made some attempts to restore it; but that ever since, the true, ancient art, depending on nature and mathematical principles, had gained no ground; the present masters having no fixed principles at all.

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I preached once more at St. Bartholomew’s. How strangely is the scene changed! What laughter and tumult was there among the best of the parish, when we preached in a London church ten years ago! And now all are calm and quietly attentive, from the least even to the greatest.

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The congregation in Moorfields was greatly increased, both morning and afternoon; and their seriousness increased with their number; so that it was comfortable even to see them. In the evening, to ease me a little in my journey, as I had not yet recovered my strength, Colonel Gumley carried me in his chair to Brentford.

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I preached at Reading, at noon, to a serious, well behaved congregation; and, in the afternoon, rode to Hungerford. Tuesday, 21. I preached in the Old Orchard, at Bristol, on, “Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous.”

Friday, 24, the day we had appointed for opening the school at Kingswood, I preached there, on, “Train up a child in the way that he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” My brother and I administered the Lord’s Supper to many who came from far. We then agreed on the general rules of the School, which we published presently after.

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I rode to Wall Bridge, near Stroud, and preached at one, to a lively congregation. About two we set out for Stanley. I scarce ever felt the sun so scorching hot in England. I began preaching in Farmer Finch’s orchard, (there not being room in the house,) between seven and eight, and the poor, earnest people devoured every word.

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I rode to Evesham, and exhorted them to “strengthen the things that remained, which were ready to die.” Wednesday, 29. We took horse at four, and, calling at Studley, found a woman of a broken heart, mourning continually after God, and scarce able to speak without tears About one I began preaching in the open air at Birmingham. At the same time it began raining violently, which continued about a quarter of an hour; but did not disturb either me or the congregation.

At half an hour after six I preached at Wednesbury, to an exceeding large congregation; and every man, woman, and child behaved in a manner becoming the Gospel.

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We set out between three and four, and reached Nottingham in the afternoon. Friday, JULY 1. I rode to Sheffield, and preached in the evening, at the end of the House, to a quiet congregation.

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I rode to Epworth, and preached to a large congregation, many of them established in the grace of God.

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I preached in the Room at five, but at nine, on my usual stand, at the cross. The clouds came just in time (it being a warm, sunshiny morning) to shade me and the congregation: But at the same time both the light and power of the Most High were upon many of their souls. I was quite surprised when I heard Mr. R. preach. That soft, smooth, tuneful voice, which he so often employed to blaspheme the work of God, was lost, without hope of recovery: All means had been tried, but none took place. He now spoke in a manner shocking to hear, and impossible to be heard distinctly by one quarter of the congregation. Mr. Hay, the Rector, reading Prayers, I had once more the comfort of receiving the Lord’s Supper at Epworth. After the Evening Service, I preached at the cross again, to almost the whole town. I see plainly, we have often judged amiss, when we have measured the increase of the work of God, in this and other places, by the increase of the society only. The society here is not large; but God has wrought upon the whole place. Sabbath breaking and drunkenness are no more seen in these streets; cursing and swearing are rarely heard. Wickedness hides its head already. Who knows but, by and by, God may utterly take it away? I was peculiarly pleased with the deep seriousness of the congregation at church, both morning and evening: And all the way as we walked down the Church Lane, after the sermon was ended, I scarce saw one person look on either side, or speak one word to another.

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I rode to Hainton. The congregation here was but small, which was chiefly owing to the miserable diligence of the poor Rector. Art thou also to die, and to give an account to God of every word and work?

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We rode to Coningsby, on the edge of the Fens. Mr. B., a Baptist Minister, had wrote to me at London, begging me to lodge with him, whenever I came to Coningsby: But he was gone out of town that very morning. However, one rode after him, and brought him back in the afternoon. I was scarce set down in his house, before he fell upon the point of baptism. I waived the dispute for some time; but finding there was no remedy, I came close to the question, and we kept to it for about an hour and half. From that time we let the matter rest, and confirmed our love towards each other.

At seven I preached in the street, to one of the largest congregations I had seen in Lincolnshire. In the morning Wednesday, 6, we had another quiet and comfortable opportunity. We thence rode to Lorborough, where I preached at eleven; and in the afternoon, to Grimsby.

At seven I preached in the large room; but it was not near large enough to contain the congregation. Many stood on the stairs, and in the adjoining rooms, and many below in the street. The fear of God has lately spread in an uncommon degree among this people also. Nor has Mr. Prince been able to prevent it, though he bitterly curses us in the name of the Lord.

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Immediately after preaching I rode to Laseby, and preached at seven to a small, earnest congregation. We stopped no more till we came to Epworth, where we had a joyful meeting in the evening.

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I took horse immediately after preaching, and rode to Mr. Stovill’s, of Crowle. I began preaching soon after eight; but so wild a congregation I had not lately seen: However, as I stood within the Justice’s garden, they did not make any disturbance.

About noon I preached at Sykehouse. The little society here also seemed to partake of the general revival. We took horse at ten, and soon after eight came to Boroughbridge.

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Setting out between two and three, we reached Newcastle about three in the afternoon. Sunday, 10. I began exhorting all that loved their own souls, solemnly to renew their covenant with God; the nature of which I explained at large on the mornings of the ensuing week. I had designed preaching between eight and nine in Sandgate; but the rain drove us into the Room. In the afternoon I preached on the First Lesson, David’s conquest of Goliath; but the house would in no wise contain the people, so that many were forced to go away.

On Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, I examined the classes, and found not only an increase of number, but likewise more of the life and power of religion among them than ever I had found before.

The same thing I observed in all the country societies, among which I spent one or more nights every week.

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We had a glorious hour in the morning. At half hour past eight I preached in the Castle Garth, and again at four in the afternoon to a vast multitude of people.

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I began my journey northward, having appointed to preach in Morpeth at noon. As soon as I had sung a few verses at the Cross, a young man appeared at the head of his troop, and told me very plainly and roughly, “You shall not preach there.” I went on; upon which he gave the signal to his companions, who prepared to force me into better manners; but they quickly fell out among themselves. Meantime I began my sermon, and went on without any considerable interruption; the congregation softening more and more, till, toward the close, the far greater part appeared exceeding serious and attentive.

In the afternoon we rode to Widdrington, which belonged to the Lord Widdrington, till the Rebellion in 1716. The people flocked in from all parts, so that the congregation here was larger than at Morpeth. It was a delightful evening, and a delightful place, under the shade of tall trees; and every man hung upon the word; none stirred his head or hand, or looked to the right or left, while I declared, in strong terms, “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

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We rode to Alemouth, a small seaport town, famous for all kinds of wickedness. The people here are sinners convict; they have nothing to pay, but plead guilty before God. Therefore, I preached to them without delay Jesus Christ, for “wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.”

After dinner we rode to Alnwick, one of the largest inland towns in the county of Northumberland. At seven I preached at the Cross to as large a congregation as at Newcastle on Sunday evening. This place seemed much to resemble Athlone; all were moved a little, but none very much. The waters spread wide, but not deep. But let the Lord work as it seemeth him good.

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We took horse between eight and nine, and a little before two came to Berwick. I sent to the Commander of the Garrison to desire the use of a green place near his house, which he readily granted. I preached at seven to (it was judged) two thousand people. I found the generality of them just such as I expected; serious and decent, but not easy to be convinced of any thing. For who can tell them what they did not know before?

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After preaching we walked round the walls, which they were repairing and rebuilding. I could not but observe today, how different the face of things was, from what it appeared yesterday; especially after I had preached at noon. Yesterday we were hallooed all along the streets; today none opened his mouth as we went along; the very children were all silent. The grown people pulled off their hats on every side; so that we might even have fancied ourselves at Newcastle. O well is it, that honor is balanced with dishonor, and good report with evil report! At seven I preached to a far larger congregation than before. And now the word of God was as a fire and an hammer. I began again and again, after I thought I had done; and the latter words were still stronger than the former; so that I was not surprised at the number which attended in the morning, when we had another joyful, solemn hour. Here was the loud call to the people of Berwick, if haply they would know the day of their visitation.

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I preached about noon at Tuggle, a village about three miles from Barnborough; and then went on to Alnwick, where, at seven, was such a congregation as one would not have thought the whole town could afford; and I was enabled to deal faithfully with them, in explaining, “Thou art not far from the kingdom of God.” I was constrained to speak twice as long as usual; but none offered to go away: And I believe the most general call of God to the people of Alnwick was at this hour.

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I preached at noon at Long Horsley. The Minister here was of a truly moderate spirit. He said, “I have done all I can for this people; and I can do them no good. Now let others try. If they can do any, I will thank them with all my heart.”

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I preached at five in the Newcastle House; at half hour past eight in the Castle Garth, and at four in the afternoon. I was weary and faint when I began to speak; but my strength was quickly renewed. Thence we went to the society. I had designed to read the Rules; but I could not get forward. As we began, so we went on till eight o’clock, singing, and rejoicing, and praising God.

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I rode to Blanchland, intending to preach there. But, at the desire of Mr. W., the Steward of the lead mines, I went about a mile further, to a house where he was paying the miners; it being one of their general paydays. I preached to a large congregation of serious people, and rode on to Hindly Hill, in Allandale.

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We rode over the moors to Nint’s Head, a village southwest from Allandale, where I preached at eight. We then went on to Alesden, a small market town in Cumberland. At noon I preached at the Cross, to a quiet, staring people, who seemed to be little concerned, one way or the other. In the evening I preached at Hindly Hill again, and we praised God with joyful lips.

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At noon I went to the Cross in Allandale town, where Mr. Topping, with a company of the better sort, waited for us. I soon found it was but a vain attempt to dispute or reason with him. He skipped so from one point to another, that it was not possible to keep up with him: So after a few minutes I removed about an hundred yards, and preached in peace to a very large congregation; it being the general payday, which is but once in six months.

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At noon I preached at Newlands: About three near Tanfield Cross, and at Newcastle in the evening.

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At eight I preached in the street, at Sunderland, and at one in the afternoon. I rode thence straight to the Castle Garth, and found abundance of people gathered together. Many were in tears all round, while those comfortable words were opened and applied, “He healeth them that are broken in heart, and giveth medicine to heal their sickness.”

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One of my old companions returned, — my headache; which I never had while I abstained from animal food. But I regarded it not, supposing it would go off in a day or two of itself.

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I preached about noon at Biddick, and at Pelton in the evening. I intended to have given an exhortation to the society; but as soon as we met the spirit of supplication fell upon us, so that I could hardly do any thing but pray and give thanks, till it was time for us to part.

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I found it absolutely necessary to publish the following advertisement: —

“WHEREAS one Thomas Moor, alias Smith, has late]y appeared in Cumberland and other parts of England, preaching (as he calls it) in a Clergyman’s habit, and then collecting money of his hearers: This is to certify whom it may concern, that the said Moor is no Clergyman, but a cheat and impostor; and that no Preacher in connection with me, either directly or indirectly asks money of any one.

“JOHN WESLEY.”

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I preached in the evening at Spen: Friday, 5, about noon, at Horsley. As I rode home I found my headache increase much. But as many people were come from all parts, (it being the monthly watch-night,) I could not be content to send them empty away. I almost forgot my pain while I was speaking; but was obliged to go to bed as soon as I had done.

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The pain was much worse than before. I then applied cloths dipped in cold water: Immediately my head was easy, but I was exceeding sick. When I laid down, the pain returned, and the sickness ceased: When I sat up, the pain ceased, and the sickness returned. In the evening I took ten grains of ipecacuanha: It wrought for about ten minutes. The moment it had done I was in perfect health, and felt no more either of pain or sickness.

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I preached as usual at five, and at half hour after eight. In the afternoon all the street was full of people, come from all parts to see the Judges. But a good part of them followed me into the Castle Garth and found something else to do. This put a zealous man that came by quite out of patience, so that I had hardly named my text, when he began to scold and scream, and curse and swear, to the utmost extent of his throat. But there was not one of the whole multitude, rich or poor, that regarded him at all.

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I set out once more for the north. At noon I preached at the Cross, in Morpeth; in the evening at Alnwick; where many now began to fear God, and tremble at his word.

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I preached about noon at Tuggle; and between six and seven in the evening at Berwick. More of the Gentry were there than ever before; and I think but three went away. Wednesday, 10. The congregation was nearly doubled, and the word seemed to sink into their hearts. It was with great difficulty that I afterwards met the society; so many crowded after me, (though without the least incivility,) and knew not how to go away.

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Abundance of them were with us in the morning. We took horse as soon as we could after preaching, and before twelve reached Alemouth, where all the publicans and sinners drew near to hear: Nay, and all the Gentry; the chief of whom invited us to dinner, where we spent two hours in agreeable and useful conversation.

In the evening I preached to the earnest congregation at Widdrington. There is always a blessing among this people.

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In riding to Newcastle, I finished the tenth Iliad of Homer. What an amazing genius had this man! To write with such strength of thought, and beauty of expression, when he had none to go before him! And what a vein of piety runs through his whole work, in spite of his Pagan prejudices! Yet one cannot but observe such improprieties intermixed, as are shocking to the last degree.

What excuse can any man of common sense make for

His scolding heroes and his wounded gods?

Nay, does he not introduce even his “Father of gods and men,” one while shaking heaven with his nod, and soon after using his sister and wife, the empress of heaven, with such language as a carman might be ashamed of? And what can be said for a King, full of days and wisdom, telling Achilles how often he had given him wine, when he was a child and sat in his lap, till he had vomited it up on his clothes? Are these some of those “divine boldnesses which naturally provoke short sightedness and ignorance to show themselves?”

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We left Newcastle. In riding to Leeds, I read Dr. Hodge’s “Account of the Plague in London.” I was surprised,

1. That he did not learn, even from the symptoms related by himself, that the part first seized by the infection was the stomach; and,

2. That he so obstinately persevered in the hot regimen; though he continually saw the ill success of it, — a majority of the patients dying under his hands.

Soon after twelve I preached near the market-place in Stockton, to a very large and very rude congregation. But they grew calmer and calmer; so that long before I had done, they were quiet and serious. Some gentlemen of Yarm earnestly desired that I would preach there in the afternoon. I refused for some time, being weak and tired; so that I thought preaching thrice in the day, and riding upwards of fifty miles, would be work enough. But they would take no denial: So I went with them about two o’clock, and preached at three in the market-place there to a great multitude of people, gathered together at a few minutes’ warning,. About seven I preached in the street at Osmotherley. It rained almost all the time; but none went away. We took horse about five, Wednesday, 17, and in the afternoon came to Leeds.

On Thursday and Friday I preached at the neighboring towns.

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At the earnest desire of the little society, I went to Wakefield. I knew the madness of the people there: But I knew also they were in God’s hand. At eight I would have preached in Francis Scot’s yard; but the landlord would not suffer it; saying the mob would do more hurt to his houses than ever we should do him good; so I went, perforce, into the main street, and proclaimed pardon for sinners. None interrupted, or made the least disturbance, from the beginning to the end.

About one I preached at Oulton, where likewise all is now calm, after a violent storm of several weeks, wherein many were beaten and wounded, and outraged various ways; but none moved from their steadfastness. In the evening I preached at Armley to many who want a storm, being quite unnerved by constant sunshine.

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I preached, as usual, at Leeds and Birstal.

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After preaching at Heaton, I rode to Skircoat Green. Our brethren here were much divided in their judgment. Many thought I ought to preach at Halifax Cross: Others judged it to be impracticable; the very mention of it as a possible thing having set all the town in an uproar. However, to the Cross I went. There was an immense number of people, roaring like the waves of the sea. But the far greater part of them were still as soon as I began to speak. They seemed more and more attentive and composed till a gentleman got some of the rabble together, and began to throw money among them, which occasioned much hurry and confusion. Finding my voice could not be heard, I made signs to the people, that I would remove to another place. I believe nine in ten followed me to a meadow, about half a mile from the town, where we spent so solemn an hour as I have seldom known, rejoicing and praising God.

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The congregation was larger at five in the morning than it was in the evening when I preached here before. About one I preached at Baildon, and in the evening at Bradford; where none behaved indecently but the Curate of the parish.

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At eight I preached at Eccleshill, and about one at Keighley. At five Mr. Grimshaw read Prayers and I preached at Haworth, to more than the church could contain. We began the service in the morning at five: And even then the church was nearly filled.

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I rode with Mr. Grimshaw to Roughlee, where T. Colbeck, of Keighley, was to meet us. We were stopped again and again, and begged not to go on; for a large mob from Colne was gone before us. Coming a little farther, we understood they had not yet reached Roughlee. So we hastened on, that we might be there before them. All was quiet when we came. I was a little afraid for Mr. Grimshaw: But it needed not: He was ready to go to prison or death for Christ’s sake.

At half hour after twelve I began to preach. I had about half finished my discourse, when the mob came poring down the hill like a torrent. After exchanging a few words with their captain, to prevent any contest, I went with him as he required. When we came to Barrowford, two miles off, the whole army drew up in battle array before the house into which I was carried, with two or three of my friends. After I had been detained above an hour, their captain went out and I followed him, and desired him to conduct me whence I came. He said, he would: But the mob soon followed after; at which he was so enraged, that he must needs turn back to fight them, and so left me alone.

A farther account is contained in the following letter, which I wrote the next morning: —

“SIR, Widdop, Aug.26, 1748.

“YESTERDAY, between twelve and one o’clock, while I was speaking to some quiet people, without any noise or tumult, a drunken rabble came, with clubs and staves, in a tumultuous and riotous manner the captain of whom, Richard B., by name, said he was a Deputy Constable, and that he was come to bring me to you. I went with him; but I had scarce gone ten yards, when a man of his company struck me with his fist in the face with all his might; quickly after, another threw his stick at my head: I then made a little stand; but another of your champions, cursing and swearing in the most shocking manner, and flourishing his club over his head, cried out, ‘Bring him away!’

“With such a convoy I walked to Barrowford, where they informed me you was; their drummer going before, to draw all the rabble together from all quarters.

“When your deputy had brought me into the house, he permitted Mr. Grimshaw, the Minister of Haworth, Mr. Colbeck, of Keighley, and one more, to be with me, promising that none should hurt them. Soon after you and your friends came in, and required me to promise, I would come to Roughlee no more. I told you, I would sooner cut off my hand, than make any such promise: Neither would I promise that none of my friends should come. After abundance of rambling discourse (for I could keep none of you long to any one point,) from about one o’clock till between three and four, (in which one of you frankly said, ‘No; we will not be like Gamaliel, we will proceed like the Jews,’) you seemed a little satisfied with my saying, ‘I will not preach at Roughlee at this time.’ You then undertook to quiet the mob, to whom you went and spoke a few words, and their noise immediately ceased. I then walked out with you at the back door.

“I should have mentioned that I had several times before desired you to let me go, but in vain; and that when I attempted to go with Richard B., the mob immediately followed, with oaths, curses, and stones; that one of them beat me down to the ground; and when I rose again, the whole body came about me like lions, and forced me back into the house. “While you and I went out at one door, Mr. Grimshaw and Mr. Colbeck went out at the other. The mob immediately closed them in, tossed them to and fro with the utmost violence, threw Mr. Grimshaw down, and loaded them both with dirt and mire of every kind; not one of your friends offering to call off your bloodhounds from the pursuit. “The other quiet, harmless people, who followed me at a distance, to see what the end would be, they treated still worse, not only by the connivance, but by the express order of your Deputy. They made them run for their lives, amidst showers of dirt and stones, without any regard to age or sex. Some of them they trampled in the mire, and dragged by the hail; particularly Mr. Mackford, who came with me from Newcastle. Many they beat with their clubs without mercy. One they forced to leap down (or they would have thrown him headlong) from a rock, ten or twelve feet high, into the river. And when he crawled out, wet and bruised, they swore they would throw him in again, which they were hardly persuaded not to do. All this time you sat well pleased close to the place, not attempting in the least to hinder them.

“And all this time you was talking of Justice and Law! Alas, Sir, suppose we were Dissenters, (which I deny,) suppose we were Jews or Turks, are we not to have the benefit of the laws of our country? Proceed against us by the law, if you can or dare; but not by lawless violence; not by making a drunken, cursing, swearing, riotous mob, both judge, jury, and executioner. This is flat rebellion against God and the King, as you may possibly find to your cost.”

Between four and five we set out from Roughlee. But observing several parties of men upon the hills, and suspecting their design, we put on and passed the lane they were making for before they came. One of our brothers, not riding so fast, was intercepted by them. They immediately knocked him down, and how it was that he got from amongst them he knew not.

Before seven we reached Widdop. The news of what had passed at Barrowford made us all friends. The person in whose house Mr. B. preached, sent and begged I would preach there; which I did at eight, to such a congregation as none could have expected on so short a warning. He invited us also to lodge at his house, and all jealousies vanished away.

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I preached at five to much the same congregation. At twelve we came to Heptonstall Bank. The house stands on the side of a steep mountain, and commands all the vale below. The place in which I preached was an oval spot of ground, surrounded with spreading trees, scooped out, as it were, in the side of the hill, which rose round like a theatre. The congregation was equal to that at Leeds; but such serious and earnest attention! It lifted up my hands, so that I preached as I scarce ever did in my life.

About four I preached again to nearly the same congregation, and God again caused the power of his love to be known. Thence we rode to Midgley. Many flocked from all parts, to whom I preached till near an hour after sunset. The calmness of the evening agreed well with the seriousness of the people; every one of whom seemed to drink in the word of God, as a thirsty land the refreshing showers.

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I preached once more at seven to the earnest people at the Bank, and then rode to Todmorden Edge. Here several prisoners were set at liberty, as was Mr. Mackford the day before. At five I preached at Mellar Barn, in Rosendale. There were a few rude people; but they kept at a distance; and it was well they did, or the unawakened hearers would have been apt to handle them roughly. I observed here what I had not then seen, but at one single place in England: — When I had finished my discourse, and even pronounced the blessing, not one person offered to go away; but every man, woman, and child stayed just where they were, till I myself went away first.

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I was invited by Mr. U., the Minister of Goodshaw, to preach in his church. I began reading Prayers at seven; but perceiving the church would scarce contain half of the congregation, after Prayers I went out, and standing on the church yard wall, in a place shaded from the sun, explained and enforced those words in the Second Lesson, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.”

I wonder at those who still talk so loud of the indecency of field preaching. The highest indecency is in St. Paul’s church, when a considerable part of the congregation are asleep, or talking, or looking about, not minding a word the Preacher says. On the other hand, there is the highest decency in a churchyard or field, when the whole congregation behave and look as if they saw the Judge of all, and heard him speaking from heaven. At one I went to the Cross in Bolton. There was a vast number of people, but many of them utterly wild. As soon as I began speaking, they began thrusting to and fro; endeavoring to throw me down from the steps on which I stood. They did so once or twice; but I went up again, and continued my discourse. They then began to throw stones; at the same time some got upon the Cross behind me to push me down; on which I could not but observe, how God overrules even the minutest circumstances. One man was bawling just at my ear, when a stone struck him on the cheek, and he was still. A second was forcing his way down to me, till another stone hit him on the forehead: It bounded back, the blood ran down, and he came no farther. The third, being got close to me, stretched out his hand, and in the instant a sharp stone came upon the joints of his fingers. He shook his hand, and was very quiet till I concluded my discourse and went away.

We came to Shackerley, six miles further, before five in the evening. Abundance of people were gathered before six; many of whom were disciples of Dr. Taylor; laughing at Original Sin, and, consequently, at the whole frame of Scriptural Christianity. O what a providence is it, which has brought us here also, among these silver tongued Anti-christs! Surely a few, at least, will recover out of the snare, and know Jesus Christ as their wisdom and righteousness!

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I preached at Davy Hulme. I had heard a surprising account concerning a young woman of Manchester, which I now received from her own mouth. She said, “On Friday, the 4th of last March, I was sitting in the house while one read the Passion Hymn. I had always before thought myself good enough, having constantly gone to church and said my prayers, nor had I ever heard any of the Methodist Preachers. On a sudden I saw our Savior on the cross, as plain as if it had been with my bodily eyes; and I felt it was my sins for which he died. I cried out, and had no strength left in me. Whether my eyes were open or shut, he was still before me hanging on the cross; and I could do nothing but weep and mourn day and night. This lasted till Monday in the afternoon. Then I saw, as it were, heaven open, and God sitting upon his throne in the midst of ten thousand of his saints; and I saw a large book in which all my sins were written; and he blotted them all out, and my heart was filled with peace, and joy, and love, which I have never lost to this hour.” In the evening I preached at Booth Bank. Tuesday, 30. I preached about one at Oldfield Brow. We rode in the afternoon to Woodley. We saw by the way many marks of the late flood; of which John Bennet, who was then upon the place, gave us the following account: —

“On Saturday, the 23d of July last, there fell for about three hours, in and about Hayfield, in Derbyshire, a very heavy rain, which caused such a flood as had not been seen by any now living in those parts. “The rocks were loosened from the mountains: One field was covered with huge stones from side to side.

“Several water mills were clean swept away, without leaving any remains. “The trees were torn up by the roots, and whirled away like stubble. “Two women of a loose character were swept away from their own door and drowned. One of them was found near the place; the other was carried seven or eight miles.

“Hayfield churchyard was all torn up, and the dead bodies swept out of their graves. When the flood abated, they were found in several places. Some were hanging on trees; others left in meadows or grounds; some partly eaten by dogs, or wanting one or more of their members.”

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John Bennet showed me a gentleman’s house, who was, a few years since, utterly without God in the world. But two or three years ago, God laid his hand both upon his body and soul. His sins dropped off. He lived holy and unblamable in all things. And not being able to go about doing good, he resolved to do what good he could at home. To this end he invited his neighbors to his house, every Sunday morning and evening, (not being near any church,) to whom he read the Prayers of the Church and a sermon. Sometimes he had an hundred and fifty or two hundred of them at once. At Bongs I received an invitation from him; so John Bennet and I rode down together, and found him rejoicing under the hand of God, and praising him for all his pain and weakness.

In the evening I preached at Chinley; Thursday, SEPTEMBER 1, near Finny Green at noon; and in the evening near Astbury. Friday, 2. I preached at Wednesbury in the afternoon, and thence rode to Meridan. Riding long stages the next day, we reached St. Alban’s, and the Foundery on Sunday morning.

In the following week I examined the classes, and settled all the business which had called me to London. Monday, 12. I preached at Reading, and rode on to Hungerford. Tuesday, 13. I preached in the new built Room at Bristol. Thursday, 15. I rode to Beercrocombe, where, between six and seven, I preached to a serious congregation. At three, Friday, 16, we took horse and came in the evening to Lifton, near Launceston. One who removed from Camelford hither, received us gladly. I had not been well all the day, so that I was not sorry they had had no notice of my coming. Being much better in the morning, I preached at seven in the street to a listening multitude, on, “Repent ye, and believe the Gospel.” After preaching, I rode on to Mr. Bennet’s. In the evening I read Prayers and preached in Tresmere church. Sunday, 18. I rode to St. Gennis. Mr. Bennet read Prayers, and I preached, on, “Thou art not far from the kingdom of God.” I question if there were more than two persons in the congregation who did not take it to themselves. Old Mrs. T. did, who was in tears during a great part of the sermon. And so did Mr. B., who afterwards spoke of himself in such a manner as I rejoiced to hear. Between three and four we reached Tresmere, where a large congregation waited for us. There was no need of speaking terrible things to these, a people ready prepared for the Lord. So I began immediately after Prayers, “All things are of God, who hath reconciled us unto himself.” A little before six I preached again near St. Stephen’s Down. The whole multitude were silent while I was speaking. Not a whisper was heard; But the moment I had done, the chain fell off their tongues. I was really surprised. Surely never was such a cackling made on the banks of Cayster, or the Common of Sedgmoor.

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I rode to Camelford, and preached about noon, none now offering to interrupt. Thence I went to Port lsaac, and preached in the street at five to near the whole town; none speaking an unkind word. It rained most of the time, but I believe not five persons went away.

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The Room was full at four. I breakfasted about seven, at Wadebridge, with Dr. W., who was, for many years, a steady, rational infidel. But it pleased God to touch his heart in reading the “Appeal;” and he is now laboring to be altogether a Christian.

After preaching at one at St. Agnes, I went on to St. Ives. The lives of this society have convinced most of the town, that what we preach is the very truth of the Gospel.

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I preached at St. Ives, Ludgvan, and Gulval; Saturday, 24, at St. Just. I rejoiced over the society here; their hearts are so simple and right toward God. And out of one hundred and fifty persons, more than an hundred walk in the light of his countenance.

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Believing my strength would not allow of preaching five times in the day, I desired John Whitford to preach at five. At eight I preached at Morva, near the village of Trembath. Hence I rode to Zennor: Mr. Simmonds came soon after, and preached a close, awakening sermon; which I endeavored to enforce by earnestly applying those words, “Thou art not far from the kingdom of God.”

I reached Newlyn a little after four. Here was a congregation of quite a different sort, — a rude, gaping, staring rabblerout; some or other of whom were throwing dirt or stones continually. But before I had done, all were quiet and still; and some looked as if they felt what was spoken. We came to St. Ives about seven: The Room would nothing near contain the congregation; but they stood in the orchard all round, and could hear perfectly well. I found tonight, that God can wound by the Gospel as well as by the Law; although the instances of this are exceeding rare, nor have we any Scripture ground to expect them. While I was enforcing, “We pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God,” a young woman, till then quite unawakened, was cut to the heart, and sunk to the ground; though she could not give a clear, rational account of the manner how the conviction seized upon her.

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I took my leave of St. Ives; about noon preached at Sithney, and at six in the evening at Crowan.

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At one I preached in Penryn, in a convenient place, encompassed with houses. Many of the hearers were at first like those of Newlyn. But they soon softened into attention.

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I took horse between three and four, and came to St. Mewan at eight. It rained all the time I was walking to the Green, which was the usual place of preaching. But the moment I began to speak the rain ceased, and did not begin again till I had done speaking. It rained with little intermission all the day after; which made the roads so bad, that it was pretty dark when we came within two miles of Crimble Passage. We were in doubt, whether the tide would allow us to ride along the sands, as we do at low water. However, it being much the shortest way, we tried. The water was still rising; and at one step our foremost man plunged in, above the top of his boots. Upon inquiry we found his horse had stumbled on a little rock, which lay under water. So we rode on, reached the passage about seven, and the Dock a little before eight.

We found great part of the congregation still waiting for us. They attended again at four in the morning. At five we took horse, and, by easy riding, soon after eight came to Tavistock. After I had preached, we hasted on, rested an hour at Oakhampton, and soon after sunset came to Crediton. We could willingly have staved here, but John Slocomb had appointed to meet us at Collumpton. Soon after we set out, it was exceeding dark, there being neither moon nor stars. The rain also made it darker still, particularly in the deep, narrow lanes. In one of these we heard the sound of horses coming toward us, and presently a hoarse voice cried, “What have you got?” Richard Moss understood him better than me, and replied, “We have no panniers.” Upon which he answered “Sir, I ask your pardon,” and went by very quietly.

There were abundance of turnings in the road, so that we could not easily have found our way at noon day. But we always turned right; nor do I know that we were out of the nay once. Before eight the moon rose. We then rode cheerfully on, and before ten reached Collumpton.

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I preached at eleven in Taunton; at three in Bridgewater; at seven in Middlesey.

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I preached at Waywick about one, and then rode

quietly on to Bristol.

I examined the society the following week, leaving out every careless person, and every one who wilfully and obstinately refused to meet his brethren weekly. By this means their number was reduced from nine hundred to about seven hundred and thirty.

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(I began examining the classes in Kingswood; and was never before so fully convinced of the device of Satan, which has often made our hands hang down, and our minds evil affected to our brethren. Now, as ten times before, a cry was gone forth, “What a scandal do these people bring upon the Gospel! What a society is this! With all these drunkards and tale bearers and evil speakers in it!” I expected, therefore, that I should find an heavy task upon my hands; and that none of these scandalous people might be concealed, I first met all the Leaders, and inquired particularly of each person in every class. I repeated this inquiry when the classes themselves met. And what was the ground of all this outcry? Why, two persons had relapsed into drunkenness within three months time; and one woman was proved to have made, or at least related, an idle story concerning another. I should rather have expected two and twenty instances of the former, and one hundred of the latter kind.

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I preached in Bath at noon to many more than the Room would contain. In the evening I preached in the street at Westbury, under Salisbury Plain. The whole congregation behaved well, though it was a town noted for rough and turbulent people.

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I preached at Reading; and on Saturday, 15, rode to London.

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I spent an hour in observing the various works of God in the Physic Garden at Chelsea. It would be a noble improvement of the design, if some able and industrious person were to make a full and accurate inquiry into the use and virtues of all these plants: Without this, what end does the heaping them thus together answer, but the gratifying an idle curiosity?

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Being All-Saints’ day, we had a solemn assembly

at the chapel; as I cannot but observe, we have had on this very day, for several years. Surely, “right dear in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints!”

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Sarah Peters, a lover of souls, a mother in Israel, went to rest. During a close observation of several years, I never saw her, upon the most trying occasions, in any degree ruffled or discomposed, but she was always loving, always happy. It was her peculiar gift, and her continual care, to seek and save that which was lost; to support the weak, to comfort the feeble minded, to bring back what had been turned out of the way. And in doing this, God endued her, above her fellows, with the love that “believeth, hopeth, endureth all things.”

“For these four years last past,” says one who was intimately acquainted with her, “we used once or twice a week to unbosom ourselves to each other. I never knew her to have one doubt concerning her own salvation. Her soul was always filled with the holy flame of love, and ran after Christ as the ‘chariots of Amminadib.’ She used to say, ‘I think I am all spirit; I must be always moving: I cannot rest, day or night, any longer than I am gathering in souls to God.’ Yet she would often complain of her weakness and imperfections; and cry out, ‘I am an unprofitable servant.’ I was sometimes jealous that she carried her charity too far, not allowing herself what was needful. But she would answer, ‘I can live upon one meal a day, so that I may have to give to them that have none.’”

On Sunday, October 9, she went, with one more, to see the condemned malefactors in Newgate. They inquired for John Lancaster, in particular, who had sent to desire their coming. He asked them to go into his cell, which they willingly did; although some dissuaded them from it, because the gaol distemper (a kind of pestilential fever) raged much among the prisoners. They desired he would call together as many of the prisoners as were willing to come. Six or seven of those who were under sentence of death came. They sung a hymn, read a portion of Scripture, and prayed. Their little audience were all in tears. Most of them appeared deeply convinced of their lost estate. From this time her labors were unwearied among them; praying with them and for them night and day. John Lancaster said, “When I used to come to the Foundery every morning, which I continued to do for some time, I little thought of ever coming to this place. I then often felt the love of God, and thought I should never commit sin more. But after a while, I left off coming to the preaching: Then my good desires died away. I fell again into the diversions I had laid aside, and the company I had left off. As I was one day playing at skittles with some of these, a young man, with whom I was now much acquainted, gave me a part of the money which he had just been receiving for some stolen goods. This, with his frequent persuasion, so wrought upon me, that at last I agreed to go partners with him. Yet I had often strong convictions; but I stifled them as well as I could. “We continued in this course till August last. As we were then going home from Bartholomew Fair, one morning about two o’clock, it came into my mind to go and steal the branches out of the Foundery. I climbed over the wall, and brought two of them away; though I trembled and shook, and made so great a noise, that I thought all the family must be dead, or else they could not but hear me. Within a few days after, I stole the velvet; for which I was taken up, tried, and condemned.”

Some being of opinion it would not be difficult to procure a pardon for him, S. Peters, though she never mentioned this to him, resolved to leave no means unattempted. She procured several petitions to be drawn, and went herself to Westminster, to Kensington, and to every part of the Town where any one lived who might possibly assist therein. In the mean time, she went constantly to Newgate, sometimes alone, sometimes with one or two others, visited all that were condemned in their cells, exhorted them, prayed with them, and had the comfort of finding them, every time, more athirst for God than before; and of being followed, whenever she went away, with abundance of prayers and blessings.

After a time, she and her companions believed it would be of use to examine each closely, as to the state of his soul. They spoke to John Lancaster first. He lifted up his eyes and hands, and, after pausing awhile, said, “I thank God, I do feel that He has forgiven me my sins: I do know it.” They asked how, and when, he knew it first. He replied, “I was in great fear and heaviness, till the very morning you came hither first. That morning I was in earnest prayer; and just as St. Paul’s clock struck five, the Lord poured into my soul such peace as I had never felt; so that I was scarce able to bear it. From that hour I have never been afraid to die; for I know, and am sure, as soon as my soul departs from the body, the Lord Jesus will stand ready to carry it into glory.”

The next who was spoken to was Thomas Atkins, nineteen years of age. When he was asked (after many other questions, in answering which he expressed the clearest and deepest conviction of all his sins, as well as that for which he was condemned) if he was not afraid to die; he fixed his eyes upward, and said, in the most earnest and solemn manner, “I bless God, I am not afraid to die; for I have laid my soul at the feet of Jesus.” And to the last moment of his life, he gave all reason to believe that these were not vain words.

Thomas Thompson, the next, was quite an ignorant man, scarce able to express himself on common occasions; yet some of his expressions were intelligible enough. “I don’t know,” said he, “how it is: I used to have nothing but bad and wicked thoughts in me, and now they are all gone; and I know God loves me, and He has forgiven my sins.” He persisted in this testimony till death, and in a behavior suitable thereto. When John Roberts came first into John L.’s cell, he was utterly careless and sullen. But it was not long before his countenance changed: The tears ran down his cheeks, and he continued, from that hour, earnestly and steadily seeking repentance and remission of sins. There did not pass many days, before he likewise declared that the burden of sin was gone, that the fear of death was utterly taken away, and it returned no more. William Gardiner, from the time that he was condemned, was very ill of the gaol distemper. She visited him in his own cell, till he was able to come abroad. He was a man of exceeding few words, but of a broken and contrite spirit. Some time after, he expressed great readiness to die, vet with the utmost diffidence of himself. One of his expressions, to a person accompanying him to the place of execution, was, “O Sir, I have nothing to trust to but the blood of Christ! If that won’t do, I am undone for ever.” As soon as Sarah Cunningham was told that the warrant was come down for her execution, she fell raving mad. She had but few intervals of reason till the morning of her execution. She was then sensible, but spoke little; till, being told, “Christ will have pity upon you, if you ask him,” she broke out, “Pity upon me! Will Christ have pity upon me? Then I will ask him; indeed I will;” which she did in the best manner she could, till her soul was required of her.

Samuel Chapman appeared to be quite hardened. He seemed to fear neither God nor devil. But when, after some time, Sarah Peters talked with him, God struck him down at one stroke. He felt himself a sinner, and cried aloud for mercy. The gaol distemper then seized upon him, and confined him to his bed, till he was carried out to die. She visited him frequently in his cell. He wept much, and prayed much; but never appeared to have any clear assurance of his acceptance with God.

It was the earnest desire of them all, that they whom God had made so helpful to them might spend the last night with them. Accordingly she came to Newgate at ten o’clock, but could not be admitted on any terms. However, six of them were suffered to be in one cell. They spent the night, wrestling with God in prayer. She was admitted about six in the morning. As soon as the cell was opened, they sprang out, several of them crying, with a transport not to be expressed, “O what a happy night have we had! What a blessed morning is this! O when will the hour come that we long for, that our souls shall be set at liberty!” The turnkey said, “I never saw such people before.” When the bellman came at twelve o’clock, to tell them, (as usual,) “Remember you are to die today,” they cried out, “Welcome news! Welcome news!”

John Lancaster was the first who was called out to have his irons knocked off. When he came to the block, (at which this is done,) he said, “Blessed be the day I came into this place! O what a glorious work hath the Lord carried on in my soul since I came hither!” Then he said to those near him, “O my dear friends, join in praise with me a sinner! O for a tongue to praise him as I ought! My heart is like fire in a close vessel. I am ready to burst for want of vent. O that I could tell the thousandth part of the joys I feel!” One saying, “I am sorry to see you in that condition;” he answered, “I would not change it for ten thousand worlds.” From the press yard he was removed into a large room, where he exhorted all the officers to repentance, till Thomas Atkins was brought in; whom he immediately asked, “How is it between God and your soul?” He answered, “Blessed be God, I am ready.” An officer asking about this time, “What is it o’clock?” was answered, “Near nine.” On which Lancaster said, “By one I shall be in Paradise, safely resting in Abraham’s bosom.” To another prisoner coming in, he said, “Cannot you see Jesus? I see him by faith, standing at the right hand of God, with open arms to receive our souls.” One asking, “Which is Lancaster?” he answered, “Here I am. Come, see a Christian triumphing over death.” A bystander said, “Be steadfast to the end.” He replied, “I am, by the grace of God, as steadfast as the rock I am built upon, and that rock is Christ.” Then he said to the people, “Cry to the Lord for mercy, and you will surely find it. I have found it; therefore none should despair. When I came first to this place, my heart was as hard as my cell walls, and as black as hell. But now I am washed, now I am made clean by the blood of Christ.”

When William Gardiner came in, he said, “Well, my dear man, how are you?” He answered, “I am happy, and think the moments long; for I want to die, that I may be with Him whom my soul loves.” Lancaster asked, “Had we not a sweet night?” He said, “I was as it were in heaven. O, if a foretaste be so sweet, what must the full enjoyment be?” Then came in Thomas Thompson, who with great power witnessed the same confession. The people round, the mean time, were in tears; and the officers stood like men affrighted.

Then Lancaster exhorted one in doubt, never to rest till he had found rest in Christ. After this he brake out into strong prayer, (mingled with praise and thanksgiving,) that the true Gospel of Christ might spread to every corner of the habitable earth; that the congregation at the Foundery might abound more and more in the knowledge and love of God; that he would, in a particular manner, bless all those who had taken care of his dying soul; and that God would bless and keep Mr. W.s, that neither men nor devils might ever hurt them, but that they might, as a ripe shock of corn, be gathered into the garner of God.

When the last prisoner came into the room, he said, “Here is another of our little flock.” An officer said tenderly, he thought it was too large. He said, “Not too large for heaven: Thither we are going.”

He said to Mr. M., “O Sir, be not faint in your mind. Be not weary of well doing. You serve a glorious Master; and if you go on, you will have a glorious reward.”

When the officers told them, it was time to go, they rose with inexpressible joy, and embraced each other, commending each other’s soul to the care of Him who had so cared for them. Lancaster then earnestly prayed, that all there present might, like him, be found of God, though they sought Him not.

Coming into the pressyard, he saw Sarah Peters. He stepped to her, kissed her, and earnestly said, “I am going to Paradise today; and you will follow me soon.”

The crowd being great, they could not readily get through. So he had another opportunity of declaring the goodness of God. And to one in heaviness he said, “Cry unto the Lord, and he will be found. My soul for thine, he will have mercy upon thee.” Then he said to all, “Remember Mary Magdalene, out of whom the Lord cast seven devils. So rely ye on him for mercy, and you will surely find it.”

As they were preparing to go into the cart, he said, “Come, my dear friends, let us go on joyfully; for the Lord is making ready to receive us into everlasting habitations.” Then turning to the spectators, he said, “My friends, God be your guide. God direct you in the right way to eternal glory. It is but a short time, and we shall be ‘where all sorrow and sighing shall flee away.’ Turn from the evil of your ways; and you also, with us, shall stand with the innumerable company on Mount Sion.” As they went along, he frequently spoke to the people, exhorting them to repentance. To some he said, “Ye poor creatures, you do not know where I am going. See that you love Christ; see that you follow Christ; and then you will come there too.” He likewise gave out, and sung, several hymns; particularly that, with which he was always deeply affected, — Lamb of God, whose bleeding love

We still recall to mind,

Send the answer from above,

And let us mercy find.

Think on us, who think on thee,

And every struggling soul release:

O remember Calvary;

And let us go in Peace!

All the people who saw them seemed to be amazed; but much more when they came to the place of execution. A solemn awe overwhelmed the whole multitude. As soon as the executioner had done his part with Lancaster, and the two that were with him, he called for a hymn book, and gave out a hymn with a clear, strong voice. And after the Ordinary had prayed, he gave out and sung the fifty first psalm. He then took leave of his fellow sufferers with all possible marks of the most tender affection. He blessed the persons who had attended him, and commended his own soul to God.

Even a little circumstance that followed seems worth observing. His body was carried away by a company hired of the Surgeons: But a crew of sailors pursued them, took it from them by force, and delivered it to his mother; by which means it was decently interred, in the presence of many who praised God on his behalf.

One thing which occasioned some amazement was, that even after death there were no marks of violence upon him. His face was not at all bloated or disfigured; no, nor even changed from its natural color; but he lay with a calm, smiling countenance, as one in a sweet sleep.

He died on Friday, October 28, and was buried on Sunday, the 30th. S. Peters, having now finished her work, felt the body sink apace. On Wednesday, November 3, she took to her bed, having the symptoms of a malignant fever. She praised God in the fires for ten days; continually witnessing the good confession, “I have fought the good fight; I have kept the faith; I am going to receive the crown:” And a little after midnight, on Sunday, the 13th, her spirit also returned to God.

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I rode to Windsor, and, after preaching, examined the

members of the society. The same I did at Reading in the evening; at Wycombe, on Tuesday; and on Wednesday, at Brentford. In the afternoon I preached to a little company at Wandsworth, who had just begun to seek God: But they had a rough setting out; the rabble gathering from every side, whenever they met together, throwing dirt and stones, and abusing both men and women in the grossest manner. They complained of this to a neighboring Magistrate, and he promised to do them justice; but Mr. C. walked over to his house, and spoke so much in favor of the rioters, that they were all discharged. It is strange, that a mild, humane man could be persuaded, by speaking quite contrary to the truth, (means as bad as the end,) to encourage a merciless rabble in outraging the innocent. A few days after, Mr. C., walking over the same field, dropped down, and spoke no more! Surely the mercy of God would not suffer a well meaning man to be any longer a tool to persecutors.

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I set out for Leigh, in Essex. It had rained hard in the former part of the night, which was succeeded by a sharp frost; so that most of the road was like glass; and the northeast wind set just in our face. However, we reached Leigh by four in the afternoon. Here was once a deep open harbor; but the sands have long since blocked it up, and reduced a once flourishing town to a small ruinous village. I preached to most of the inhabitants of the place in the evening; to many in the morning, and then rode back to London.

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I retired to Newington to write. I preached every

evening to a little company. One who stumbled in among them on Wednesday was a man eminent for all manner of wickedness: He appeared much affected, and went away full of good desires and resolutions.

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A poor mourner found peace. When she related it to me in the morning, I told her, “If you watch and pray, God will give you more of his love.” She replied, “More! Why, is it possible I should feel more love to God than I do now?” the natural thought of newborn babes, who feel as much as their hearts will then contain.

In the evening I saw one in a far different state. He was crying out, (in a high fever,) “O Sir, I am dying without God, without Christ, without hope!” I spoke strongly of the mercies of God in Christ, and left him a little revived. The next night he told me, “For some time after you was here, I was — I know not how; so light and easy I had no doubt but God would have mercy upon me; but now I am dark again: I fear lest I should perish at the last.” He then broke out into prayer. I left him a little easier, beginning again to cast his care upon God.

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Several of our brethren called upon him, and found his hope gradually increasing.

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He expressed a strong confidence in the mercy of God, and said, he feared nothing but lest he should live and turn back into the world. Before noon he was a little delirious; but as soon as any one spoke of God, he recovered himself, and prayed so vehemently as to set all that heard him in tears. I called once more about six in the evening, and commended his soul to God. He was speechless, but not without sense, as the motion of his lips plainly showed; though his eyes were generally fixed upwards, with a look which said, “I see God.” About half an hour after I went away, his soul was set at liberty.

Thus, in the strength of his years, died Francis Butts, one in whose lips was found no guile. He was an honest man, fearing God, and earnestly endeavoring to work righteousness.

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I buried the body of William Turner; who, towards the close of a long illness, had been removed into Guy’s Hospital, though with small hope of recovery. The night before his death he was delirious, and talked loud and incoherently, which occasioned many in the ward to gather round his bed, in order to divert themselves. But in that hour it pleased God to restore him at once to the full use of his understanding; and he began praising God and exhorting them to repent, so as to pierce many to the heart. He remained for some time in this last labor of love, and then gave up his soul to God.

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Mr. Glanville died. He was at the burial of Francis Butts, and was then saying, “What a mercy it is that I am alive! That I was not cut off a year ago!” The same night he was taken ill, and was for the most part delirious. In his lucid intervals he seemed intent on the things of God. I saw him not till the night before his death: He answered me sensibly once or twice, saying, he hoped to meet me in a better place: Then he raved again; so I used a short prayer, and commended his spirit to God.

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