1766

A large congregation met in the Foundery at

four o’clock, and ushered in the new year with the voice of praise and thanksgiving. In the evening we met, as usual, at the church in Spitalfields, to renew our covenant with God. This is always a refreshing season, at which some prisoners are set at liberty.

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Mr. B—— called upon me, now calm and in his right mind. God has repressed his furious, bitter zeal, by means of Mr. Whitefield. He (Mr. Whitefield) made the first breach among the Methodists: O that God may empower him to heal it!

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In the evening I went to Lewisham. Thursday, 9. I read Bishop Lowth’s “Answer” to Bishop W. If any thing human could be a cure for pride, surely such a medicine as this would!

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I went in the machine to Bury, and preached to a small, serious congregation. Tuesday, 14. The frozen road being exceeding rough, our machine broke down before day. However, it was patched up, so as to carry us to Budsdale; and in the evening I preached at Yarmouth. The work of God was increasing here, when poor B. W. was converted to Calvinism. Immediately he declared open war, tore the society in pieces, took all he could to himself, wholly quitted the Church, and raised such a scandal as will not soon be removed. Yet doubtless he who turned the young man’s head thinks he has done God service.

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I rode to Norwich, and preached at seven in a large place, called the Priory. The room, I suppose, was formerly the chapel: I like it the better on that account. After spending three days here more agreeably than I had done for many years, on Monday, 20, I left a society of an hundred and seventy members, regular, and well united together. In the evening the machine put up at the White Elm. On Tuesday morning I reached Colchester.

I found the society here slowly recovering from the mischief done by offense and disputing together. I had great liberty of speech, both morning and evening; and God seemed strongly to apply his word. Surely they will at length learn to bear one another’s burdens; then will “the desert rejoice, and blossom as the rose.”

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I returned to Lincoln. Tuesday, 28. Our brethren met together to consider our temporal affairs. One proposed that we should, in the first place, pay off the debt of the society, which was five hundred pounds. Towards this an hundred and seventy were subscribed immediately. At a second meeting this was enlarged to three hundred and twenty. Surely God will supply the rest.

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Mr. Whitefield called upon me. He breathes nothing but peace and love. Bigotry cannot stand before him, but hides its head wherever he comes.

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I dined with W. Welsh, the father of the late Society

for Reformation of Manners. But that excellent design is at a full stop. They have indeed convicted the wretch who, by willful perjury, carried the cause against them in Westminster-Hall; but they could never recover the expense of that suit. Lord, how long shall the ungodly triumph?

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One called upon me who had been cheated out of a large fortune, and was now perishing for want of bread. I had a desire to clothe him, and send him back to his own country; but was short of money. However, I appointed him to call again in an hour. He did so; but before he came, one from whom I expected nothing less, put twenty guineas into my hand: So I ordered him to be clothed from head to foot, and sent him straight away to Dublin.

Monday, 10, and the four following days, I wrote a catalogue of the society, now reduced from eight-and-twenty hundred to about two-and-twenty. Such is the fruit of George Bell’s enthusiasm, and Thomas Maxfield’s gratitude!

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I preached at Sundon; and many looked as if they understood something of what was said. Tuesday, 18. I went on to Bedford, and found James Glasbrook had just buried his wife; a woman of fine understanding, and an excellent spirit, snatched away in the dawn of her usefulness. What Thou doest, we know not now! We wonder and adore! The next day I rode over to Copel, where she died, and preached her funeral sermon. In the evening I preached at Bedford, and found God was there also: And Where Thy presence is display’d is heaven.

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I preached at Hertford, and in the evening at Leytonstone.

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I preached at Oldford, near Bow. Part of the congregation were deeply serious; the other part wild and stupid enough. But the bridle was in their mouth, so that they made no noise; nay, and were, in a manner, attentive.

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In the evening I went to Lewisham, and finished the notes on the book of Job. About this time one of Henry Jackson’s daughters gave me the following letter from her sister: —

“Newcastle, February 23, 1766.

“ON Thursday, the 13th of this month, my honored father looked so beautiful and comely that we all wondered. At night, in his first sleep, he was taken very ill. On Friday morning I asked him what he could take. He answered, ‘I am to eat no more.’ His illness increased; but he was still calm and composed, and resigned to the will of God. Indeed I always beheld in him such faith, love, and divine resignation as I never saw in any other. On Sunday he said, ‘Now my soul is prepared, and made ready to meet the Lord.’ From this time he was filled with longing desires to depart and to be with Christ; crying out, ‘I cannot stay: I must go to my Beloved, to be with him for ever.’ Monday, 17. He said, ‘I have fought a good fight; I have finished my course; I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of glory, which the righteous Judge shall give me at that day.’ Tuesday, 18. After receiving the blessed sacrament, he declared to the Minister, ‘My anchor is cast within the veil, both sure and immovable.’ And as long as he had his speech, he preached Christ to every one that came to see him. Indeed his whole life, for many years, was but one dedication of his body and soul to God; praying continually, and being lost in praise and thanksgiving to his adorable Savior. In all the various dispensations of God’s providence towards him and his family, he was still magnifying and praising his holy name; always thankful, humble, loving, and obedient. Nothing was able to move him one moment, or put him out of temper; but he received every thing from the hand of God, with faith, patience, and resignation. Before his speech failed, he blessed all his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; and on Thursday morning, February 20, yielded up his soul to God, being ninety-nine years and five months old.”

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I read Bishop Lowth’s ingenious Lectures De Poesi Hebraea, far more satisfactory than any thing or that subject which I ever saw before. He shows clearly, that the noblest poetry may subsist without being beholden either to rhyme or fixed measures.

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Our brethren met once more on account of the public debt. And they did not part till more than the whole (which was six hundred and ten pounds) was subscribed.

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In the evening I went to Knightsbridge; and in the morning took the machine for Bristol, where I preached (as I had appointed) on Tuesday evening, and met the society. Wednesday, 12. I rode over to Kingswood; and, having told my whole mind to the Masters and servants, spoke to the children in a far stronger manner than ever I did before. I will kill or cure: I will have one or the other, — a Christian school, or none at all.

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I preached in Princes-Street at eight, on, “Awake, thou that sleepest;” and at the Square in the evening, to a listening multitude, on, “Come, Lord Jesus!” At Kingswood we had such a congregation at ten as has not been there for several years: And I had the satisfaction to find four of our children again rejoicing in the love of God.

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I rode to Stroud, the sun shining as in May. Seventeen such days in the beginning of March, I suppose, few men have known. But on Tuesday the weather entirely changed; and the piercing northeast wind, this and the two following days, was scarce supportable. At seven I preached in the Room at Painswick, and about ten came to Cheltenham. Here I was in a strait; the House would not hold half the people; and the wind was keen enough. However, I thought this the less evil of the two, and so preached abroad, where we were tolerably sheltered. And I did not observe that any, rich or poor, went away till I concluded. I reached Evesham about five in the evening, and preached about six with tolerable quiet. But as we returned, the mob, encouraged by the wretched Magistrate, were rude and noisy enough. Yet as they neither saluted us with stones, nor dirt, we were well contented.

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We called at a little inn, about sixteen miles from Evesham. But as Duncan Wright and I had our hoods on, the good woman was frightened, and did not care to take us in: So we rode a mile or two farther to another house, where we came in season. After a little talk, the woman of the house said, “I fear it is not so well with me as it was once. Before I married, I used to kneel down in the cow-house, to pray to God for all I wanted. But now I am incumbered with worldly cares; and yet God has not forgotten me. Last winter, when my husband had lost the use of all his limbs, I prayed to God for him, and he was well.” This woman knew nothing about the Methodists; but God is nigh to all that call upon him. In the evening I preached at Birmingham. Towards the close, the mob gathered: But they were restrained till I had concluded.

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It was as much as we could do to bear the cold before sunrise. However, we came well to Burton before eleven, where I preached to an exceeding serious congregation. In the evening I preached at Nottingham in the new House, thoroughly filled with serious hearers. Indeed there is never any disturbance here. And there could be none anywhere, if the Magistrates were lovers of peace, and exerted themselves in the defense of it.

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I had thoughts of preaching in the market place; but the snow which fell in the night made it impracticable. In the morning the house contained the congregation; but in the evening many were constrained to go away. There seems to be now (what never was before) a general call to the town.

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We rode to Derby. I never saw this House full before; the people in general being profoundly careless. I endeavored to show them their picture, by enlarging on those words, “Gallio cared for none of these things.”

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At ten I preached in their new House at Creitch, about twelve miles from Derby, to a loving, simple-hearted people; many of whom felt what I spoke of fellowship with the Father and with the Son. Thence we rode on through several heavy showers of snow to Sheffield, where at six we had a numerous congregation. There has been much disturbance here this winter; but tonight all was peace.

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I preached in the morning at a little village near Eyam, in the High-Peak. The eagerness with which the poor people devoured the word made me amends for the cold ride over the snowy mountains. The same earnestness I observed in the congregation at Maxfield: And yet hardly a third part of those I formerly examined now retain the glorious liberty which they then enjoyed.

March 28. — (Being Good-Friday.) As soon as we came from church, I began at Stockport, on, “We preach Christ crucified; to the Jews a stumbling-block, and to the Greeks foolishness.” At six in the evening I preached at Manchestcer; and on Saturday, and on Easter-Day In the evening I explained to the society the nature of the yearly subscription. On this one sent me the following letter: —

“GOOD SIR, March 31, 1766.

“I THOUGHT proper to send you a few lines concerning what you spoke of last night. How good it was that you, but us all together as one family; that each might do his utmost to help all his brethern! Had you spoke of this sooner, and opened your mind freely as you did yesterday, where I have given one shilling, I would have given one pound. My heart was rejoiced at the good news, so as my tongue cannot express. I was ready to cry out, with Zaccheus, ‘Lo, the half of my goods I give to the poor.’ I have sent you two guineas towards carrying on the work of the Lord. And may the blessing of the Lord go with it; for I give it freely: I would rather it had been twoscore.

W. N.”

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On a close examination, out of more than fifty persons,

who, two or three years ago, were filled with the love of God, I did not find above a third part who had not suffered loss. But almost all were deeply sensible of their loss, and earnestly groaning for what they once enjoyed.

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We rode through heavy rain to Chester. Friday, 4. I visited a poor woman, who has been ill eight years, and is not yet weary or faint in her mind. An heavy-laden sinner desired to receive the sacrament with her, and found rest to her soul; and from that hour increased every day in the knowledge and love of God.

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I preached at Warrington, about noon, to a large congregation, rich and poor, learned and unlearned. I never spoke more plain; for have I ever seen a congregation listen with more attention. Thence I rode to Liverpool, and thoroughly regulated the society, which had great need of it. Wednesday, 9. I took much pains with a sensible woman who had taken several imprudent steps. But it was labor lost, — neither argument nor persuasion made the least impression. O, what power less than almighty call convince a thorough-paced enthusiast!

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I looked over the wonderful Deed which was lately made here: On which I observed,

1. It takes up three large skins of parchment, and so could not cost less than six guineas; whereas our own Deed, transcribed by a friend, would not have cost six shillings.

2. It is verbose beyond all sense and reason; and withal so ambiguously worded, that one passage only might find matter for a suit of ten or twelve years in Chancery.

3. It everywhere calls the house a Meeting-House, a name which I particularly object to.

4. It leaves no power either to the Assistant or me, so much as to place or displace a Steward.

5. Neither I, nor all the Conference, have power to send the same Preacher two years together. To crown all,

6. If a Preacher is not appointed at the Conference, the Trustees and the congregation are to choose one by most votes! And can any one wonder I dislike this Deed, which tears the Methodist discipline up by the roots?

Is it not strange, that any who have the least regard either for me or our discipline, should scruple to alter this uncouth Deed?

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I preached near Wigan to a large number of serious,

well-behaved people, mixed with a few as stupidly insolent creatures as I ever saw. Finding them proof both against reason and persuasion, at length I rebuked them sharply. This they understood, and quickly retired. So I concluded in peace.

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I was desired to preach at Brinsley, three or four miles from Wigan. The sun shone hot, but I had some shelter; and the artless people drank in every word. About six I began in the street at Bolton. The wind was then high, and cold enough; but I soon forgot it, and so did most of the people, being almost as thirsty as those at Brinsley. When I began on Sunday, in the afternoon, the wind was exceeding sharp; but it fell in a few moments, and we had a mild, agreeable summer evening.

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I preached at Middleton, six miles from Manchester. A sharp shower of hail began in the middle of the sermon; but scarce any went away. Tuesday, 15. We rode to Chapel-en-le-Frith. We had a rough salutation in riding through the town; at the end of which a multitude of people being gathered together in a convenient meadow, I preached on, “By grace are ye saved through faith.” God spoke in his word. It was an acceptable time, and few went empty away.

In riding over the dreary mountains of the High-Peak we met with several storms: But we were no worse when we came to Rotherham, where I preached in the evening. The spirit of the congregation was able to enliven the dullest Preacher. Indeed it was good to be here. Wednesday, 16. About two in the afternoon, I had another kind of congregation at Doncaster, wild and stupid enough. Yet all were tolerably civil, many attentive, and some affected. Thence we hasted to Epworth. Here I took knowledge of the same spirit as at Rotherham. What a blessing is it, to be with those who are alive to God! But how few duly value this blessing!

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I set out for the eastern part of Lincolnshire, and after

preaching at Awkborough and Barrow in the way, came the next day to our old friends at Grimsby. It put me in mind of Purrysburg, in Georgia. It was one of the largest towns in the county: It is no bigger than a middling village, containing a small number of half-starved inhabitants, without any trade, either foreign or domestic. But this they have; they love the Gospel, hardly six families excepted. And a large proportion of them have found “it is the power of God unto salvation.”

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Between nine and ten I began preaching in an open place at Louth. The mob here used to be exceeding boisterous; but none now opened his mouth. How easily, when it seems him good, does God “still the madness of the people!”

Hence we rode to Trusthorpe in the Marsh, where a multitude of plain, simple-hearted people assembled. When I met the society after preaching, abundance of them crowded in; many of whom, while we were wrestling with God in prayer, cried out with a loud and bitter cry. But it was not long before some of them rejoiced with joy unspeakable.

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I preached to a congregation of a very different kind at Horncastle. John Hill has done more mischief here than a man of far greater talents can do good. By that unhappy division of the society, he has opened the mouths of all the gainsayers; and, to complete the scandal, he and six-and-twenty more have been dipped! “Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel!”

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I preached at five; in Torrington at nine; and about two at Scotter, where the poor people now enjoy great quietness, by means of Sir N. H. About six I preached at Ferry. I do not choose to preach above twice or thrice in a day; but when I am called to do more, it is all one: I find strength according to my need.

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I rode to Epworth, and the next day, through heavy rain, to Swinfleet. I supposed, as the rain kept many from coming, the preaching house would contain the congregation; but it would not. However, as the door and windows were open, I believe, most of them could hear; and the eagerness with which they heard made me hope they were not forgetful hearers.

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I rode over to Misterton, and visited a young woman, who a year or two since was struck first with deep melancholy, and soon after with utter distraction. We were quickly convinced whence her disorder came. Let Physicians do all they will or can; yet it will be found in the end, that “this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” After preaching I hasted away to Haxey, and came thither before the church began. The Curate preached a very harmless sermon against the Methodists. Between one and two I preached at Westwood-side, on, “Behold, now is the day of salvation!” And it seemed as if all had ears to hear. About four I began in the market place at Epworth, on, “He beheld the city, and wept over it.” And such a call I think the inhabitants of this town have scarce ever had before.

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I preached at Thorne. Although a great part of the

congregation had never heard one preach under a tree before, yet they behaved extremely well. Before we came to York, I was thoroughly tired; but my strength quickly returned; so that, after preaching to a large congregation, and meeting the society, I was fresher than when I began.

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I preached at noon in the new House at Thirsk, almost equal to that at Yarm: And why not quite, seeing they held the model before their eyes, and had nothing to do but to copy after it? Is it not an amazing weakness, that when they have the most beautiful pattern before them, all builders will affect to mend something? So the je ne scai quoi is lost, and the second building scarce ever equals tne first.

I preached at Yarm in the evening, and the next at Newcastle. I know not to what it is owing, that I have felt more weariness this spring than I had done before for many years; unless to my fall at Christmas, which perhaps weakened the springs of my whole machine more than I was sensible of.

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I enjoyed a little rest. I do not find the least change in this respect. I love quietness and silence as well as ever; but if I am called into noise and tumult, all is well.

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The rain constrained me to preach in the Room, both in the morning and evening. But it was fair at two while I preached abroad at the Fell, where the Room could not contain one half of the congregation.

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I rode to Sunderland. On Wednesday and Thursday evening, I preached in Monkwearmouth church. Saturday, 10. I spent an agreeable hour at a Quaker’s, a man of large substance. His spirit put me in mind of Thomas Keene. May thy last end be like his!

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The weather not permitting me to preach abroad, I preached in the Room, morning and evening, and about eleven in Monkwearmouth church. In the evening some hundreds of us solemnly renewed our covenant with God, and he answered many in the joy of their hearts.

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After preaching at South-Shields about noon, and at

North-Shields in the evening, I returned to Newcastle. In the following days I preached at as many of the neighboring places as I could; and on Monday, 19, set out northward. About two I preached to the honest colliers at Placey, and in the evening at Morpeth. Tuesday, 20. About noon I preached at Felton. There were many hearers, though the wind was extremely sharp; and most of them were attentive; but very few seemed to understand anything of the matter. I preached at Alnwick in the evening.

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We spent an hour in the Castle and the gardens, which the Duke is enlarging and improving daily, and turning into a little paradise. What pity, that he must leave all these, and die like a common man!

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At eleven I preached in the street at Belford, fifteen miles beyond Alnwick. The hearers were seriously attentive, and a few seemed to understand what was spoken. Between six and seven I preached in the Town-hall at Berwick. I had an uncommon liberty in speaking, and a solemn awe sat on the faces of all the hearers. Is God again visiting this poor, barren place?

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When I came to Old-Camus, I found notice had been given of my preaching about a mile off. So I took horse without delay, and rode to Coppersmith, where the congregation was waiting. I spoke as plain as I possibly could; but very few appeared to be at all affected. It seems to be with them, as with most in the north: They know everything, and feel nothing.

I had designed to preach abroad at Dunbar in the evening; but the rain drove us into the House. It was for good. I now had a full stroke at their hearts, and I think some felt themselves sinners.

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In the afternoon, notice having been given a week before, I went to the Room at Preston-Pans. And I had it all to myself; neither man, woman, nor child, offered to look me in the face: So I ordered a chair to be placed in the street. Then forty or fifty crept together; but they were mere stocks and stones; no more concerned than if I had talked Greek. In the evening I preached in the new Room at Edinburgh, a large and commodious building.

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I spent some hours at the meeting of the National Assembly. I am very far from being of Mr. Whitefield’s mind, who greatly commends the solemnity of this meeting. I have seen few less solemn: I was extremely shocked at the behavior of many of the members. Had any Preacher behaved so at our Conference, he would have had no more place among us.

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I preached at Leith, and spoke exceeding plain. A few received the truth in the love thereof.

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Many of the Ministers were present at seven, with a

large and serious congregation. In the afternoon I heard a thundering sermon in the new kirk, occasioned by Mr. Jardin’s (a Minister) dropping down dead in the Assembly a day or two before. I preached in the evening on “The Spirit and the Bride say, Come!” A few, I trust, closed with the invitation.

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I came to Dundee, wet enough. But it cleared up in the evening, so that I preached abroad to a large congregation, many of whom attended in the morning. Tuesday, 3. The congregation was still larger in the evening, but on Wednesday the rain kept us in the house. Thursday, 5. It being fair, we had a more numerous congregation than ever; to whom, after preaching, I took occasion to repeat most of the plausible objections which had been made to us in Scotland. I then showed our reasons for the things which had been objected to us, and all seemed to be thoroughly satisfied.

The sum of what I spoke was this: —

“I love plain-dealing. Do not you? I will use it now. Bear with me. “I hang out no false colors; but show you all I am, all I intend, all I do.

“I am a member of the Church of England: But I love good men of every Church.

“My ground is the Bible. Yea, I am a Bible-bigot. I follow it in all things, both great and small.

“Therefore,

1. I always use a short private prayer, when I attend the public service of God. Do not you? Why do you not? Is not this according to the Bible?

“2. I stand whenever I sing the praise of God in public. Does not the Bible give you plain precedents for this?

“3. I always kneel before the Lord my Maker, when I pray in public. “4. I generally in public use the Lord’s Prayer, because Christ has taught me, when I pray, to say, ——

“I advise every Preacher connected with me, whether in England or Scotland, herein to tread in my steps.”

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We went on to Aberdeen, about seventy measured miles. The congregation in the evening was larger than the usual one at Edinburgh. And the number of those who attended in the morning showed they were not all curious hearers.

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Knowing no reason why we should make God’s day the

shortest of the seven, I desired Joseph Thompson to preach at five. At eight I preached myself. In the afternoon I heard a strong, close sermon, at Old-Aberdeen; and afterward preached in the College kirk, to a very genteel, and yet serious congregation. I then opened and enforced the way ot holiness, at New-Aberdeen, on a numerous congregation. Monday, 9. I kept a watch-night, and explained to abundance of genteel people, “One thing is needful;” a great number of whom would not go away, till after the noon of night.

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I rode over to Sir Archibald Grant’s. The church was pretty well filled, and I spoke exceeding plain; yet the hearers did not appear to be any more affected than the stone walls.

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I returned to Aberdeen, where many of the people were much alive to God. With these our labor has not been in vain; and they are worth all the pains we have taken in Scotland.

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We reached Brechin a little before twelve. Quickly after, I began preaching in the fish market, on the “one thing needful.” It being the fair-day, the town was full of strangers, and perhaps some of them were found of Him they sought not. I preached in the evening at Dundee, with greater liberty than ever before. Saturday, 14. It rained from the moment we set out, till (about one) we came to Kinghorn. Finding the boat was not to move till four o’clock, I purposed to hire a pinnace; but the wind springing up fair, I went into the large boat. Quickly it fell calm again, so that we did not get over till past seven.

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Our Room was very warm in the afternoon, through the

multitude of people; a great number of whom were people of fashion, with many Ministers. I spoke to them with the utmost plainness, and, I believe, not in vain; for we had such a congregation at five in the morning as I never saw at Edinburgh before. It is scarce possible to speak too plain in England; but it is scarce possible to speak plain enough in Scotland. And if you do not, you lose all your labor, you plough upon the sand.

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I took a view of one of the greatest natural curiosities in the kingdom; what is called Arthur’s Seat; a small, rocky eminence, six or seven yards across, on the top of an exceeding high mountain, not far from Edinburgh. The prospect from the top of the Castle is large, but it is nothing, in comparison of this. In the evening, we had another Sunday’s congregation, who seemed more affected than the day before. Tuesday, 17. It rained much, yet abundance of people came; and again God made bare his arm. I can now leave Edinburgh with comfort; for I have fully delivered my own soul.

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I set out for Glasgow. In the afternoon the rain poured down, so that we were glad to take shelter in a little house, where I soon began to talk with our host’s daughter, eighteen or nineteen years old. But, to my surprise, I found her as ignorant of the nature of religion as an Hottentot. And many such I have found in Scotland; able to read, nay, and repeat the Catechism, but wholly unacquainted with true religion, yea, and all genuine morality. This evening we were in the House; but the next I preached abroad to many more than the House could contain. On Friday the number was greatly increased, but much more on Saturday. I then enlarged upon communion with God, as the only real, scriptural religion. And I believe many felt, that, with all their orthodox, they had no religion still. What a difference there is between the society here, and that at Dundee! There are about sixty members there, and scarce more than six scriptural believers. Here are seventy-four members, and near thirty among them lively, zealous believers; one of whom was justified thirty years ago, and another of them two-and-forty: And several of them have been for many years rejoicing in God their Savior.

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At seven I was obliged to preach abroad, and the word sunk deep into the hearers. I almost wondered at myself for speaking so plain, and wondered how they could bear it. It is the Lord’s doing! In the afternoon Mr. Gillies was unusually close and convincing. At five I preached on, “O that thou hadst known, at least in this thy day, the things that make for thy peace!” I almost despaired of making the whole congregation hear; but by their behavior it seems they did. In the close I enlarged upon their prejudices, and explained myself with regard to most of them. Shame, concern, and a mixture of various passions, were painted on most faces; and I perceived the Scots, if you touch but the right key, receive as lively impressions as the English.

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We rode in a mild, cool day, to Thorny-Hill, about sixty (measured) miles from Glasgow. Here I met with Mr. Knox’s “History ot the Church of Scotland;” and could any man wonder, if the members of it were more fierce, sour, and bitter of spirit, than some of them are? For what a pattern have they before them! I know it is commonly said, “The work to be done needed such a spirit.” Not so: The work of God does not, cannot need the work of the devil to forward it. And a calm, even spirit goes through rough work far better than a furious one. Although, therefore, God did use, at the time of the Reformation, some sour, over-bearing, passionate men, yet he did not use them because they were such, but notwithstanding they were so. And there is no doubt, He would have used them much more, had they been of an humbler and milder spirit.

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Before eight we reached Dumfries, and after a short bait

pushed on in hopes of reaching Solway-Frith, before the sea was come in. Designing to call at an inn by the Frith side, we inquired the way, and were directed to leave the main road, and go straight to the house which we saw before us. In ten minutes Duncan Wright was embogged: However, the horse plunged on, and got through. I was inclined to turn back; but Duncan telling me I needed only go a little to the left, I did so, and sunk at once to my horse’s shoulders. He sprung up twice, and twice sunk again, each time deeper than before. At the third plunge he threw me on one side, and we both made shift to scramble out. I was covered with fine, soft mud, from my feet to the crown of my head; yet, blessed be God, not hurt at all. But we could not cross till between seven and eight o’clock. An honest man crossed with us, who went two miles out of his way to guide us over the sands to Skilburness; where we found a little clean house, and passed a comfortable night.

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We rode on to Whitehaven. Here I spent the rest of the week.

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I appointed the children to meet me; and desired Mr. Atlay to meet them for the time to come. At one, Robert Williams preached in the market place, to some thousands of people, all quiet and attentive. About five I preached near the town to a willing multitude, many of whom seemed to be cut to the heart.

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About two we reached Penrith. Two of our friends guided us thence to Appleby, a county-town worthy of Ireland, containing, at least, five-and-twenty houses. I was desired to preach here; but, being very wet, I chose to ride on to Arthur Johnson’s, near Brough.

I would willingly have preached, (though we had rode upwards of seventy miles,) but it was a lone house, and there was not time to gather a congregation. Tuesday, JULY 1. The neighbors soon came together, to whom I preached at seven, and then rode on to Barnard-Castle and met the Stewards of the societies, greatly increased since I was here before. At six I preached in an open space, adjoining to the preaching-house. As the militia were in town, the far greater part of them attended, with a large congregation from town and county. It rained most of the time I was speaking; but, I believe; hardly six persons went away. At the love-feast which followed, several spoke their experience with all simplicity. One poor mourner was set at liberty, and many greatly comforted.

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About noon I preached in Teesdale, and in Weardale at six in the evening. Here a poor woman was brought to us, who had been disordered several years, and was now raving mad. She cursed and blasphemed in a terrible manner, and could not stand or sit still for a moment. However, her husband constrained her to come to the place where I was going to preach; and he held her there by main strength, although she shrieked in the most dreadful manner; but in a quarter of an hour she left off shrieking, and sat motionless and silent, till she began crying to God, which she continued to do, almost without intermission, till we left her.

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We rode through a pleasant vale to Wolsingham, where I began singing near the middle of the town. A few soon gathered together, and their number increased all the time I was preaching. Only one young man behaved amiss, striving to divert them that were near him; but they would not be diverted: So that after a while he grew serious too. In the evening we came once more to Newcastle. On Saturday I rode to Sunderland; and at eight the next morning preached at the east end of the town, to a huge multitude, the greater part of whom had little thought of God or devil. Thence we returned to Gateshead-Fell, where was a multitude of another kind, ripe for the whole Gospel. Here, therefore, as well as at the Garth-Heads about five, I enlarged on those solemn words, “Today, if you will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.”

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I rode to Durham, and preached about noon on our Lord’s lamentation over Jerusalem. In the evening, the rain hindering me from preaching, in the street, at Hartlepool, I had a large congregation in the assembly room. Many of them were present again in the morning, and seemed “almost persuaded to be Christians.”

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While I was preaching at Stockton, a drunken man made some disturbance. I turned and spoke strongly to him. He stood reproved, and listened with much attention. Wednesday, 9. We had our Quarterly Meeting at Yarm. The societies in this Circuit increase; that is, among the poor; for the rich, generally speaking, “care for none of these things.”

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About two in the afternoon, I preached at Potto, and in the evening at Hutton-Rudby. Here is the largest society in these parts, and the most alive to God. After spending some time with them all, I met those apart who believe they are saved from sin. I was agreeably surprised. I think not above two, out of sixteen or seventeen whom I examined, have lost the direct witness of that salvation ever since they experienced it.

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I preached at five, on the spies who “brought up an evil report” on the good land. I breakfasted at ——’s, and met with a very remarkable family. He himself, his wife, and three of his daughters, are a pattern to all round about them. About nine I preached in the new House at Stokesley; but it would by no means contain the congregation. I came to Guisborough a little before twelve, and found notice had been given of my preaching there; so, having no time to lose, I began without delay, in the street where I alighted. I had a serious congregation in a few minutes, and did not at all repent of my labor. After riding on to Whitby, and preaching at seven, I was no more tired than when I rose in the morning.

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I preached at seven in the Room; at one in the main street on the other side the water. A vast multitude quickly ran together, and were deeply attentive. At five I preached in the new market place to a still larger congregation. A great number of them attended at five in the morning, and we had a solemn parting.

About one I preached in the little Square at Robin Hood’s Bay, and rode on to Scarborough. We were met near the town by a furious thundershower, but it was quickly over; and a fair evening following, I preached in the garden to a tolerably serious congregation.

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I had much conversation with Mr. C., whom some had again

taken true pains to prejudice. I think he is once more set right, but fear it will not continue long. It rained hard at six, but was fair at seven. Just as I ended my sermon the rain began again.

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About ten I reached Middleton, near Pickering. The church was pretty well filled. I preached on part of the Second Lesson, John 4; particularly the twenty-fourth verse; and all the congregation seemed earnest to know how they might worship God “in spirit and in truth.” In the evening most of the congregation at Malton were of another kind; but a whole troop of the Oxford Blues, who stood together and were deeply serious, kept them in awe: So that all behaved decently, and many of the soldiers were present again in the morning.

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In the way to Beverley, I called upon Sir Charles Hotham, and spent a comfortable hour. I preached before the time appointed at Hull; by which means the Room was but moderately filled. It was near full at five in the morning; at noon I believe few were unaffected. When we took horse in the afternoon, it was quite calm, and the sun was extremely scorching; but the wind soon rose, and brought on the clouds; so we had a pleasant ride to Beverley. I preached at six in an House as warm as an oven; and the people were tolerably attentive. Who knows but we may find again, after many days, the bread we are now casting upon the waters?

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I took a view of Beverley Minster, such a parish church as has scarce its fellow in England. It is a most beautiful as well as stately building, both within and without, and is kept more nicely clean than any cathedral which I have seen in the kingdom; but where will it be when the earth is burned up, and the elements melt with fervent heat? About one I preached at Pocklington, (though my strength was much exhausted,) and in the evening at York.

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After preaching at eight, I went to St. Savior-gate church. Towards the close of the Prayers the Rector sent the sexton to tell me the pulpit was at my service. I preached on the conclusion of the Gospel for the day, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” I did not see one person laugh or smile, though we had an elegant congregation.

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I went on to Tadcaster. Here Mr. Ingham had once a far larger society than ours; but it is now shrunk into nothing; ours, meantime, is continually increasing. In the evening rich and poor flocked together, to whom I explained, “We know that we are of God;” namely, “by the Spirit which he hath given us;” by the witness of the Spirit, and by the fruit confirming that witness.

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I preached at Pateley-Bridge. Such a congregation, both for number and seriousness, I have not seen since we left Newcastle. As it rained, I desired the men to put on their hats; but in two or three minutes they pulled them off again, and seemed to mind nothing but how they might “know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

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We rode to Skipton in Craven. I designed to preach in the market place; but the rain prevented. So I stood near Mr. Garforth’s house, where many were under shelter; but many remained without, seeming not to think whether it rained or not. Will all these be barren and unfruitful?

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I preached at Addingham about nine, and at Guiseley in the

evening. Sunday, 27. As Baildon church would not near contain the congregation, after the Prayers were ended I came out into the church-yard, both morning and afternoon. The wind was extremely high, and blew in my face all the time; yet, I believe, all the people could hear. At Bradford there was so huge a multitude, and the rain so damped my voice, that many in the skirts of the congregation could not hear distinctly. They have just built a preaching-house, fifty-four feet square, the largest octagon we have in England; and it is the first of the kind where the roof is built with common sense, rising only a third of its breadth; yet it is as firm as any in England; nor does it at all hurt the walls. Why then does any roof rise higher? Only through want of skill, or want of honesty, in the builder.

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I preached at Colne. And here I found one whom I had sent for some years ago. She lives two miles from Colne, and is of an unblamable behavior. Her name is Ann A——n. She is now in the twenty-sixth year of her age. The account she gives is as follows: — “I cannot now remember the particulars which I told Mr. Grimshaw from time to time; but I well remember, that from the time I was about four years old, after I was in bed I used to see several persons walking up and down the room. They all used to come very near the bed, and look upon me, but say nothing. Some of them looked very sad, and some looked very cheerful; some seemed pleased, others very angry; and these frayed me sore; especially a man and a woman of our own parish, who seemed fighting, and died soon after. None of them spake to me but a lad about sixteen, who, a week before, died of the small-pox. I said to him, ‘You are dead! How did you get out of the other place?’ He said, ‘Easily enough.’ I said, ‘Nay, I think if I was there, I should not get out so easily.’ He looked exceeding angry. I was frightened, and began to pray, and he vanished away. If it was ever so dark when any of them appeared, there was light all round them. This continued till I was sixteen or seventeen; but it frightened me more and more; and I was troubled because people talked about me; and many told me I was a witch. This made me cry earnestly to God to take it away from me. In a week or two it was all at an end; and I have seen nothing since.”

In the evening I preached near the preaching house at Paddiham, and strongly insisted on communion with God, as the only religion that would avail us. At the close of the sermon came Mr. M. His long, white beard showed that his present disorder was of some continuance. In all other respects he was quite sensible; but he told me, with much concern, “You can have no place in heaven without — a beard! Therefore, I beg, let yours grow immediately.”

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I rode to Rosendale; which, notwithstanding its name, is little else than a chain of mountains. The rain in the evening obliged me to preach in the new House, near a village called New-Church. As many as could, crowded in, and many more stood at the door; but many were constrained to go away. Thursday, 31. I preached at Bacup, and then rode on to Heptonstall. The tall mountain on which it stands is quite steep and abrupt, only where the roads are made; and the deep valleys that surround it, as well as the sides of the mountains beyond, are well clothed with grass, corn, and trees. I preached with great enlargement of heart, on, “Now is the day of salvation.” The renegade Methodists, first turning Calvinists, then Anabaptists, made much confusion here for a season; but as they now have taken themselves away, the poor people are in peace again.

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I rode to Ewood. The last time I was here, young Mr.

Grimshaw received us in the same hearty manner as his father used to do; but he too is now gone into eternity! So in a few years the family is extinct! I preached at one in a meadow near the House to a numerous congregation; and we sang with one heart,

Let sickness blast and death devour,

If heaven will recompense our pains:

Perish the grass and fade the flower,

Since firm the word of God remains.

In the evening I preached at Halifax. When I began, the sun was intensely hot; but quickly the clouds covered him.

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When the Prayers at Haworth were ended, I preached from a little scaffold on the south side of the church, on those words in the Gospel, “O that thou hadst known the things that belong into thy peace!” The communicants alone (a sight which has not been seen since Mr. Grimshaw’s death) filled the church. In the afternoon the congregation was supposed to be the largest which had ever been there; but strength was given me in proportion; so that I believe all could hear.

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At one I preached at Bingley, but with an heavy heart, finding so many of the Methodists here, as well as at Haworth, perverted by the Anabaptists. I see clearer and clearer, none will keep to us unless they keep to the church. Whoever separate from the church, will separate from the Methodists. In the afternoon I went to Otley; but the town seemed to be run mad. Such noise, hurry, drunkenness, rioting, confusion, I know not when I have met with before. It was their feast-day! A feast of Bacchus, or Venus, or Belial? O shame to a Christian country! However, both the small and great rabble were so engaged, that they had no leisure to molest us; so that I preached to a large congregation under the hill with perfect quietness.

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I rode to Bradford. Wednesday, 6. I preached at one in Great-Gomersal; in the evening at Dewsbury. The congregation was as large as at Bradford, and as attentive; although a few years since the people of Daw-Green were as eminently savage and irreligious, as even the colliers of Kingswood.

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We had as hot a day as most I have known in Georgia.

However, about noon I rode to Horbury; but it was impracticable to preach abroad. So we retired into the new House; but this too was as hot as an oven. Some of the people behaved exceeding ill at first; but it was soon over. In a few minutes the whole congregation was as serious and attentive as that at Daw-Green.

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I rode over to Huddersfield. The church, though large, was exceeding hot, through the multitude of people; on whom I enforced St. Paul’s words, “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” How we should have rode back, I know not; but that the wind, which was in our face as we came, was again in our face as we returned. At Bristol we found many of our brethren from various parts. One of them was mentioning a remarkable case: — David Prince, of Thorner, near Leeds, had been stone-blind for many years, and was without God in the world till past fourscore. At about eighty-one he received remission of sins, and from that hour he never lost the sense of it. When he was asked how he did, his answer was, “Happier and happier.” In the eighty-fifth year of his age his spirit returned to God.

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After Mr. Eastwood had read Prayers, I came out into the churchyard, and preached to four times as many as the church could contain, on, “Are not Abana and Pharpar better than all the waters of Israel?” About one I preached at Daw-Green. I judged the congregation, closely wedged together, to extend forty yards one way, and about an hundred the other. Now, suppose five to stand in a yard square, they would amount to twenty thousand people. I began preaching at Leeds, between five and six, to just such another congregation. This was the hardest day’s work I have had since I left London; being obliged to speak, at each place, from the beginning to the end, to the utmost extent of my voice. But my strength was as my day.

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Our Conference began, and ended on Friday evening. An

happier Conference we never had, nor a more profitable one. It was both begun and ended in love, and with a solemn sense of the presence of God.

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After preaching in Leeds at seven, I rode to Birstal, and heard a sound useful sermon, on, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden.” At one I preached to an immense multitude, on, “Come, Lord Jesus!” I then set out for Rotherham; but the next day I turned off from the road I had designed to take, and, going on to Leicester that night, on Wednesday, reached London.

It was at the earnest request of ——, whose heart God has turned again, without any expectation of mine, that I came hither so suddenly: And if no other good result from it but our firm union with Mr. Whitefield, it is an abundant recompence for my labor. My brother and I conferred with him every day; and, let the honorable men do what they please, we resolved, by the grace of God, to go on, hand in hand, through honor and dishonor.

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The chapel was sufficiently crowded, both morning and afternoon, and God was eminently present. In the evening I went to Brentford, and saw a remarkable monument of mercy, — a man who, in the full career of sin, was so hurt by a fall, that there was no hope of his life. But, after deep repentance, God broke in upon his soul, and gave him a better hope; so that he is now little concerned about life or death, but praises God all the day long. Monday, 25. We set out early from Brentford, and reached Bath on Tuesday, in the afternoon. Many were not a little surprised in the evening, at seeing me in the Countess of H.’s chapel. The congregation was not only large, but serious; and I fully delivered my own soul. So I am in no concern, whether I preach there again, or no. I have no choice concerning it.

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I rode to Bristol, and the next day delivered the management of Kingswood house to stewards on whom I could depend. So I have cast an heavy load off my shoulders. Blessed be God for able and faithful men, who will do his work without any temporal reward!

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In my way to Cornwall, I preached at Shepton-Mallet at nine, in Wincanton at one. I was thoroughly tired before we came to Shaftesbury: However, at six I preached in the new House, filled within and without, to the no small astonishment, it seemed, of most of the hearers. But it was a time of consolation, as well as conviction. I trust many will experience both in this House.

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We rode to Stallbridge, long the seat of war, by a senseless, insolent mob, encouraged by their betters, so called, to outrage their quiet neighbors. For what? Why, they were mad: They were Methodists. So, to bring them to their senses, they would beat their brains out. They broke their windows, leaving not one whole pane of glass, spoiled their goods, and assaulted their persons with dirt, and rotten eggs, and stones, whenever they appeared in the street. But no Magistrate, though they applied to several, would show them either mercy or justice. At length they wrote to me. I ordered a lawyer to write to the rioters. He did so; but they set him at nought. We then moved the Court of King’s Bench. By various artifices, they got the trial put off, from one Assizes to another, for eighteen months. But it fell so much the heavier on themselves, when they were found guilty; and, from that time, finding there is law for Methodists, they have suffered them to be at peace.

I preached near the main street, without the least disturbance, to a large and attentive congregation. Thence we rode on to Axminster, but were thoroughly wet before we came thither. The rain obliged me to preach within at six; but at seven on Sunday morning, I cried in the market place, “The kingdom of God is at hand; repent ye, and believe the Gospel.” In the evening I preached in the street at Ashburton. Many behaved with decency; but the rest, with such stupid rudeness as I have not seen, for a long time, in any part of England.

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I came to Plymouth-Dock, where, after heavy

storms, there is now a calm. The House, notwithstanding the new galleries, was extremely crowded in the evening. I strongly exhorted the backsliders to return to God; and I believe many received “the word of exhortation.”

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Being invited to preach in the Tabernacle at Plymouth, I began about two in the afternoon. In the evening I was offered the use of Mr. Whitefield’s Room at the Dock; but, large as it is, it would not contain the congregation. At the close of the sermon, a large stone was thrown in at one of the windows, which came just behind me, and fell at my feet, the best place that could have been found. So no one was either hurt or frightened, not many knowing anything of the matter.

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I rode to Medros, where there was, last year, the most lively society in Cornwall. But they are decreased, both in number and strength; many who were then strong in the Lord, being now weak and faint. However, we had a deeply serious congregation in the evening, and a remarkable blessing at the meeting of the society.

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At noon I preached in Truro. I was in hopes, when Mr.

Walker died, the enmity in those who were called his people would have died also. But it is not so: They still look upon us as rank heretics, and will have no fellowship with us. In the evening I preached at Penryn, in the main street, at the door of one of the chief gentlemen in the town. I never saw such a congregation here before; and all seemed to hear as for life.

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I preached near Helstone, to an exceeding large and serious congregation. What a surprising change is wrought here also, within a few years, where a Methodist Preacher could hardly go through the street without a shower of stones!

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At one I began preaching in a meadow adjoining to Penzance. The whole congregation behaved well. The old bitterness is gone, and perhaps, had it not been market-day, I might have had a quiet hearing in the market place. In the evening I preached at Newlyn. Small rain fell all the time; but none went away.

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At eight I preached in Mousehole, a large village southwest from Newlyn. Thence I went to Buryan church, and, as soon as the service was ended, preached near the church-yard, to a numerous congregation. Just after I began, I saw a gentleman before me, shaking his whip, and vehemently striving to say something. But he was abundantly too warm to say any thing intelligibly. So, after walking a while to and fro, he wisely took horse and rode away.

The multitude of people at St. Just constrained me to preach abroad, though it rained the whole time. But this did not discourage the congregation, who not only stayed till I had concluded, but were not in haste to go away then; many still hovering about the place.

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In riding to St. Ives, I called on one with whom I used to lodge, two or three and twenty years ago, Alice Daniel, at Rosemargay. Her sons are all gone from her; and she has but one daughter left, who is always ill. Her husband is dead; and she can no longer read her Bible, for she is stone-blind. Yet she murmurs at nothing, but cheerfully waits till her appointed time shall come. How many of these jewels may lie hid, up and down; forgotten of men, but precious in the sight of God! In the evening I preached at St. Ives, a little above the town, to the largest congregation I ever saw there. Indeed nearly the whole town seems convinced of the truth; yea, and almost persuaded to be Christians.

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I preached at Lelant about one, but the rain drove us into the House; and at St. Ives, all I could do was to preach to as many as the House would hold, and a few at the door. But the next evening I stood in the meadow again, and enforced those solemn words, “Come, Lord Jesus!”

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I rode to St. Hilary, and in the evening preached near the new House, on, “Awake, thou that sleepest.” In returning to my lodging, it being dark, my horse was just stepping into a tin-pit, when an honest man caught him by the bridle, and turned his head the other way.

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I preached at noon in the new House at Crowan, it being a very stormy day. But I knew not what to do at Redruth, in the evening: The House was far too small, and the wind was exceeding high, and brought on frequent and heavy showers. However, I chose the most convenient part of the street; and we had but one short shower till I concluded.

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I preached in St. Agnes at eight. The congregation in Redruth, at one, was the largest I ever had seen there; but small, compared to that which assembled at five, in the natural amphitheater at Gwennap; far the finest I know in the kingdom. It is a round, green hollow, gently shelving down, about fifty feet deep; but I suppose it is two hundred across one way, and near three hundred the other. I believe there were full twenty thousand people; and, the evening being calm, all could hear.

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I preached at Cubert, and next morning rode on to St.

Columb. Being desired to break the ice here, I began preaching, without delay, in a gentleman’s yard adjoining to the main street. I chose this, as neither too public nor too private. I fear the greater part of the audience understood full little of what they heard. However, they behaved with seriousness and good manners.

Hence I rode to Port-Isaac, now one of the liveliest places in Cornwall. The weather being uncertain, I preached near the House. But there was no rain while I preached, except the gracious rain which God sent upon his inheritance.

Here Mr. Buckingham met me, who, for fear of offending the Bishop, broke off all commerce with the Methodists. He had no sooner done this, than the Bishop rewarded him by turning him out of his curacy; which, had he continued to walk in Christian simplicity, he would probably have had to this day.

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I twice stopped a violent bleeding from a cut, by applying a brier-leaf. The Room at Launceston would not near contain the congregation in the evening, to whom I strongly applied the case of the impotent man at the pool of Bethesda. Many were much affected; but O, how few are willing to be made whole!

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I rode to Collumpton, preached at six, and then went on to Tiverton. Friday, 19, came a messenger from Jo. Magor, dangerously ill at Sidmouth, four or five and twenty miles off, to tell me he could not die in peace till he had seen me. So the next morning, after preaching, I set out, spent an hour with him, by which he was exceedingly refreshed, and returned to Tiverton time enough to rest a little before the evening preaching.

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I preached, morning and evening, in the market house, and at one in an open place at Bampton. Monday, 22. I preached in the street at Culmstock, to almost all the inhabitants of the town. A little before six in the evening I preached at Mr. Jones’s door, in Middlesey. Many of the hearers did once run well; some of whom resolve to set out anew. Tuesday,

23. At eleven I preached to a large and serious congregation at Lymsham-Green. When I concluded, a Clergyman began to entertain the people with a dispute concerning Lay-Preachers. In the instant began a violent shower; so they left him to himself. But it was fair again in the afternoon, and we had a pleasant ride to Bristol.

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I preached in Princes-Street at eight, in Kingswood at two, and at five near the new Square. The last especially was an acceptable time; particularly while I was explaining, “Neither can they die any more; but are the children of God, being children of the resurrection.” In the following days I preached at Pensford, Paulton, Coleford, Buckland, Frome, Beckington, Freshford, and Bradford. Sunday, OCTOBER 5. At eight I administered the sacrament at Lady H.’s chapel in Bath. At eleven I preached there on those words in the Gospel for the day, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” The word was quick and powerful; and I trust many, even of the rich and great, felt themselves sinners before God. Several evenings this week I preached at Bristol on the Education of Children. Some answered all by that poor lame, miserable shift, “O, he has no children of his own!” But many, of a nobler spirit, owned the truth, and pleaded guilty before God.

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I waited on the good old Bishop of Londonderry, and spent two or three hours in useful conversation. In the evening I preached again at my Lady’s chapel to another numerous congregation. Who knows but a few among this gay multitude may “work out their salvation with fear and trembling?”

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I took a ride to Cheltenham. It being too cold to preach abroad, at six I preached in the chapel, and fully declared the whole counsel of God. Afterwards I examined the little society; and found the greater part of them lively believers, and quite free from the bigotry which is common among Churchmen, and still more among Dissenters. The next day, after preaching at five and at eight in Gloucester I had a pleasant ride to Bristol.

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I took my leave of Princes-Street for this season. We had such a congregation at Kingswood at ten as I have scarce seen there for these twenty years; and at two I was obliged to preach abroad. Sunday, 19. I preached once more in the Square; and in the morning, Monday, 20, left Bristol, with a firm hope that both here and at Kingswood things will now be conducted to the glory of God and the honor of true religion. In the evening I preached an healing sermon at Bath, on Colossians 3:9. The next day I went on to Salisbury, and preached in as rousing a manner as I could, on, “One thing is needful.” Thursday, 23. I preached at Romsey: The next day, at Winchester, Whitchurch, and Basingstoke, where many attended at five on Saturday morning. In the afternoon I came to London.

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I preached at West-Street in the morning to a crowded audience, and in the evening at the Foundery. How pleasing would it be to play between Bristol and London, and preach always to such congregations as these! But what account then should I give of my stewardship when I can “be no longer steward?”

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I rode to Wycombe. The Room was much crowded, and yet

could not contain the congregation. In the morning, too, they flocked together in such a manner as had not been seen here before. In the evening I preached at Whitney, (where a little company stand fast together,) and thrice the next day, endeavoring to lay “line upon line, and precept upon precept.”

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At one I preached in Wattleton, and thence rode with some difficulty, the wind being exceeding high, over the mountain to Wycombe. The congregation was as before, both for number and earnestness. So, at length we see the fruit of our labor.

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At my return to London, I found it needful to hasten to

Leytonstone; but I came too late. Miss Lewen died the day before, after an illness of five days. Some hours before, she witnessed that good confession, —

Nature’s last agony is o’er,

And cruel sin subsists no more.

Awhile after, she cried out earnestly, “Do you not see him? There he is! Glory! glory! glory! I shall be with him for ever, — for ever, — for ever!” So died Margaret Lewen! a pattern to all young women of fortune in England: A real Bible Christian. So she “rests from her labors, and her works do follow her.”

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“God, who hath knit together his elect in one communion and fellowship,” gave us a solemn season at West-Street (as usual) in praising him for all his Saints. On this day in particular, I commonly find the truth of these words: —

The Church triumphant in his love,

Their mighty joys we know;

They praise the Lamb in hymns above,

And we in hymns below.

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I rode to Brentford, where all was quiet, both in the congregation and the society. Tuesday, 4. I preached at Brentford, Battersea, Deptford, and Welling, and examined the several societies.

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I rode by Shoreham to Sevenoaks. In the little journeys which I have lately taken, I have thought much on the huge encomiums which have been for many ages bestowed on a country life. How have all the learned world cried out,

O fortunati nimium, sua si bona norint Agricola! 11

But, after all, what a flat contradiction is this to universal experience! See that little house, under the wood, by the river side! There is rural life in perfection. How happy then is the farmer that lives there! Let us take a detail of his happiness. He rises with, or before, the sun, calls his servants, looks to his swine and cows, then to his stables and barns. He sees to the ploughing and sowing his ground, in winter or in spring. In summer and autumn he hurries and sweats among his mowers and reapers. And where is his happiness in the mean time? Which of these employments do we envy? Or do we envy the delicate repast that succeeds, which the poet so languishes for? —

O quando faba, Pythagorae cognata, simulque

Uncta satis pingui ponentur oluscula lardo!

“O the happiness of eating beans well greased with fat bacon! Nay, and cabbage too!” — Was Horace in his senses when he talked thus, or the servile herd of his imitators? Our eyes and ears may convince us there is not a less happy body of men in all England than the country farmers. In general, their life is supremely dull; and it is usually unhappy too. For of all people in the kingdom, they are most discontented; seldom satisfied either with God or man.

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I set out early for Northampton. But before we came to

Luton, James Glasbrook met me, and informed me that he had given notice of my preaching every day, at one place or another, in Bedfordshire. Upon reflection, we thought it best for Mr. Blackwell to go to Northampton, and for me to keep the appointments which had been made. So I preached in Luton at two, and in the evening at Sundon. Tuesday, 11. I preached, between one and two, at a village called Milbrook, to a company of plain, serious people; and in the evening at Wotton-Pillidge, where several have already found this word to be “the power of God unto salvation.”

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I preached at two in Lidlington, to another company of plain country people. Thence we crossed over to Copel, where is at present the most lively of all the little societies in Bedfordshire. Thursday,

13. I rode to Bedford, and in the evening spoke with more plainness, I may indeed say roughness, than ever I did before, if haply God might rouse some of these drowsy people. Friday, 14. I preached at Luton; and on Saturday I returned to London.

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I strongly inculcated family religion, the grand desideratum among the Methodists. Many were ashamed before God, and at length adopted Joshua’s resolution, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

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I conversed with a young Clergyman full of good resolutions. But I judge it impossible they can hold; for he has not the least conception of his own weakness.

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I preached on the Education of Children, wherein we are so shamefully wanting. Many were now deeply convinced of this. I hope they will not all stifle that conviction.

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I went to Canterbury, and on Wednesday, 10, to Dover. At all the sea-ports we have a multitude of hearers. Is not this a token for good to the nation? Surely mercy “embraces us on every side.” Will it not likewise go through the land?

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I preached at Dover, Sandwich, Ramsgate, and Margate; on Friday, at Canterbury. I have not seen this society so at unity among themselves for many years. Saturday, 13. I left them with much satisfaction, and cheerfully returned to London.

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I spent an hour with ——; just of the same spirit as she was twenty years ago. So hitherto all the bad labor of my small friends is lost.

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At five in the morning I again began a course of sermons on Christian Perfection; if haply that thirst after it might return which was so general a few years ago. Since that time, how deeply have we grieved the Holy Spirit of God! Yet two or three have lately received his pure love; and a few more are brought to the birth.

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