1770

About eighteen hundred of us met together: It was a most solemn season. As we did openly “avouch the Lord to be our God, so did He avouch us to be his people.”

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In a little journey, which I took into Bedfordshire, I finished Dr. Burnet’s “Theory of the Earth.” He is doubtless one of the first-rate writers, both as to sense and style; his language is remarkably clear, unaffected, nervous, and elegant. And as to this theory, none can deny that it is ingenious, and consistent with itself. And it is highly probable,

1. That the earth arose out of the chaos in some such manner as he describes:

2. That the antediluvian earth was without high or abrupt mountains, and without sea, being one uniform crust, enclosing the great abyss:

3. That the flood was caused by the breaking of this crust, and its sinking into the abyss of waters: And,

4. That the present state of the earth, both internal and external, shows it to be the ruins of the former earth. This is the substance of his two former books, and thus far I can go with him.

I have no objection to the substance of his third book upon the General Conflagration, but think it one of the noblest tracts which is extant in our language. And I do not much object to the fourth, concerning the new heavens and the new earth. The substance of it is highly probable.

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One informed me that Mrs. Kitely, at Lambeth, not expected to live many hours, had a great desire to see me before she died. I went as quick as possible; but when I came she seemed senseless, as well as speechless. I regarded not this, but spoke to her immediately; and immediately both her understanding and her speech returned, to testify an hope full of immortality. Having had her desire, she fell asleep, two days before her husband, —

A perfect pattern of true womanhood.

A good wife, a good parent, a good mistress; and “her works shall praise her in the gates.” How suitable was her death to her life! After many years spent in doing good, she redeemed a poor, friendless youth out of prison, took the gaol-distemper, and died.

Sat. February 3, and at my leisure moments on several of the following days, I read with much expectation, a celebrated book, — Rousseau upon Education. But how was I disappointed! Sure a more consummate coxcomb never saw the sun! How amazingly full of himself! Whatever he speaks he pronounces as an oracle. But many of his oracles are as palpably false, as that “young children never love old people.” No! Do they never love grandfathers and grandmothers? Frequently more than they do their own parents. Indeed they love all that love them, and that with more warmth and sincerity than when they come to riper years. But I object to his temper more than to his judgment: He is a mere misanthrope; a cynic all over. So indeed is his brother-infidel, Voltaire; and well nigh as great a coxcomb. But he hides both his doggedness and vanity a little better; wheleas here it stares us in the face continually. As to his book, it is whimsical to the last degree; grounded neither upon reason nor experience. To cite particular passages would be endless; but any one may observe concerning the whole, the advices which are good are trite and common, only disguised under new expressions. And those which are new, which are really his own, are lighter than vanity itself. Such discoveries I always expect from those who are too wise to believe their Bibles.

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I went to Wandsworth. What a proof have we here, that

God’s “thoughts are not as our thoughts!” Every one thought no good could be done here; we had tried for above twenty years. Very few would even give us the hearing; and the few that did, seemed little the better for it. But all on a sudden, crowds flock to hear; many are cut to the heart; many filled with peace and joy in believing; many long for the whole image of God. In the evening, though it was a sharp frost, the Room was as hot as a stove. And they drank in the word with all greediness; as also at five in the morning, while I applied, “Jesus put forth his hand and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean!”

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I read, with all the attention I was master of, Mr. Hutchinson’s Life, and Mr. Spearman’s Index to his Works. And I was more convinced than ever,

1. That he had not the least conception, much less experience, of inward religion:

2. That an ingenious man may prove just what he pleases, by well devised scriptural etymologies; especially if he be in the fashion, if he affects to read the Hebrew without vowels. And,

3. That his whole hypothesis, philosophical and theological, is unsupported by any solid proof.

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I was desired to hear Mr. Leoui sing at the Jewish synagogue. I never before saw a Jewish congregation behave so decently. Indeed the place itself is so solemn, that it might strike an awe upon those who have any thought of God.

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I sat down to read and seriously consider some of the writings of Baron Swedenborg. I began with huge prejudice in his favor, knowing him to be a pious man, one of a strong understanding, of much learning, and one who thoroughly believed himself. But I could not hold out long. Any one of his visions puts his real character out of doubt. He is one of the most ingenious, lively, entertaining madmen that ever set pen to paper. But his waking dreams are so wild, so far remote both from Scripture and common sense, that one might as easily swallow the stories of “Tom Thumb,” or “Jack the Giant-Killer.”

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I came to Newbury, where I had been much

importuned to preach. But where? The Dissenters would not permit me to preach in their meeting house. Some were then desirous to hire the old playhouse; but the good Mayor would not suffer it to be so profaned! So I made use of a workshop, — a large, commodious place. But it would by no means contain the congregation. All that could hear behaved well; and I was in hopes God would have a people in this place aiso. The next evening I preached at Bristol, and spent the rest of the week there. Monday, 12. I went to Stroud, where the House was filled as usual. Tuesday, 13. I went by Painswick and Gloucester to Tewkesbury. Wednesday, 14. I preached in the new Room, which is just finished, at Upon; and thence rode on to Worcester, where I preached in a large, old, awkward place, to a crowded and much-affected audience. Afterwards I met the society of about an hundred members, all of one heart and one mind; so lovingly and closely united together, that I have scarce seen the like in the kingdom.

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I met the select society. How swiftly has God deepened his work in these! I have seen very few, either in Bristol or London, who are more clear in their experience. The account all whom I had time to examine gave, was scriptural and rational: And, suppose they spoke true, they are witnesses of the Perfection which I preach. Yet, that they may fall therefrom I know; but that they must, I utterly deny.

After preaching at Evesham about noon, we rode through a furious shower of snow, driven full in our faces, to Broadmarston. The very uncommon severity of the weather somewhat lessened the congregation in the evening. All who were there seemed prepared for that awful subject, “I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God.”

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We rode, in another bitter day, with the wind and snow just in our face, to Birmingham. In the evening the people were wedged in as close as possible; yet many were obliged to go away. We had just the same congregation in the morning. Sunday, 18. At half-hour after one I was to preach at Bromwich-Heath; but the House would scarce contain a fourth part of the congregation. So I made a virtue of necessity, and preached in a ground where there was room for all that came: And I believe God kindled a fire in many frozen hearts.

In the evening I preached in the House at Wednesbury a funeral sermon for Elizabeth Longmore; I think, the first witness of Christian Perfection whom God raised up in these parts. I gave some account of her experience many years ago. From that time her whole life was answerable to her profession, every way holy and unblamable. Frequently she had not bread to eat; but that did not hinder her “rejoicing evermore.” She had close trials from her poor, apostate husband, in the midst of sharp pain, and pining sickness. But she was superior to all; still seeing her Father’s hand, and “in every thing giving thanks.” Her death was suitable to her life. No cloud could arise,

To darken the skies,

Or hide for a moment her Lord from her eyes.

All was noon-day. She praised God with every breath till he took her to himself.

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I rode to Craidley. Here also the multitude of people obliged me to stand abroad, although the north wind whistled round my head. About one I took the field again at Stourbridge. Many of the hearers were wild as colts untamed; but the bridle was in their mouths. At six I began at Dudley. The air was as cold as I had almost ever felt. But I trust God warmed many hearts.

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I took my leave of Wednesbury at five; preached about ten at Bilstone; about one, at Bilbrook; and about five in the evening, at Wolverhampton. Many here were wild and stupid enough: however, the greater part were deeply attentive.

I now procured an account of two remarkable children, which I think ought not to be buried in oblivion: —

“About three weeks before Christmas, 1768, William Cooper, at Walsal, in Staffordshire, then nine years old, was convinced of sin, and would frequently say he should go to hell, and the devil would fetch him. Sometimes he cried out, ‘I hate him.’ Being asked, ‘Whom?’ he answered, with great vehemence, ‘God.’ This terrified his mother, who, not knowing what was the matter with the child, strove to keep it secret.

“But in about a fortnight, it pleased God to reveal to him his pardoning love. His mouth was then filled with praise, declaring to all what God had done for his soul.

“A few days after Billy was awakened, God was pleased to convince his sister Lucy, then eleven years old. He soon put a song of praise into her mouth also, so that they mightily rejoiced together in God their Savior. At the same time they were both heavily afflicted in their bodies. But so much the more was the power of God manifested, causing them to continue in the triumph of faith, throughout their sharpest pains.

“On December 30, one of their sisters coming to see them, Billy told her he had been very ill. ‘But,’ said he, ‘I do not mean in my body, but in my soul: I felt my sins so heavy, that I thought I should go to hell; and I saw the devil ready to drag me away. Nay, for a week, I thought myself just in the flames of hell. The sins that troubled me most were, telling lies, and quarreling with my sister. I saw, if God did not forgive me, I was lost: And I knew quarreling was as great a sin in Lucy as in me; and if she did not get a pardon, and feel the love of Jesus, she could not go to heaven.’ “Lucy said, ‘When I heard Mr. A. describe two sorts of people, one sort washed in the blood of Christ, and the other not, I found I was not; and therefore, if I died so, must go to hell.’ Being asked what sin lay most on her conscience, she replied, ‘Taking his name in vain, by repeating my prayers when I did not think of God.’ “When Billy was confessing that he had loved money, Lucy said, ‘And so did I; and was angry if I had not as much as Billy. I loved money more than God, and he might justly have sent me to hell for it.’

“When Billy was asked how he knew his sins were forgiven, he answered, ‘Christ told me so. I had a great struggle in my heart with the devil and sin, till it pleased Jesus to come into my soul. I now feel his love in my heart, and he tells me he has forgiven my sins.’

“Being asked how he did, he replied, ‘Happy in Jesus: Jesus is sweet to my soul.’ ‘Do you choose to live, or die?’ He answered, ‘Neither. I hope, if I live, I shall praise God; and if I die, I am sure I shall go to him; for he has forgiven my sins, and given me his love.’ “One asked Lucy, how long she had been in the triumph of faith. She answered, ‘Only this week: Before I had much to do with Satan; but now Jesus has conquered him for me.’ While she was speaking, feeling great pain of body, she said, ‘O I want more of these pains, more of these pains, to bring me nearer to Jesus!’ “One speaking of knowing the voice of Christ, she said, ‘The voice of Christ is a strange voice to them who do not know their sins forgiven: But I know it; for he has pardoned all my sins, and given me his love. And O what a mercy that such a hell-deserving wretch as me, as me, should be made to taste of his love!’ “Billy had frequent fits. When he found one coming, he, with a smile, laid down his head, saying, ‘O sweet love!’ or, ‘O sweet Jesus!’ And as soon as he came to himself, being, asked how he did, he would reply, ‘I am happy in the love of Christ.’ “When a gentleman said, ‘My dear, you could praise God more, if it were not for those ugly fits,’ he replied, ‘Sir, they are not ugly; for my dear Jesus sent them; and he has given me patience to bear them; and he bore more for my sins.’

“One night, a gentleman and his wife came to see them; and the gentlewoman, looking on Lucy, said, ‘She looks as if nothing was the matter with her; she is so pleasant with her eyes.’ She replied, ‘I have enough to make me look so; for I am full of the love of God.’ While she spoke, her eyes sparkled exceedingly, and the tears flowed down her cheeks. At this Billy smiled, but could not speak; having been speechless for more than an hour. It seemed he was just going into eternity; but the Lord revived him a little; and as soon as he could speak, he desired to be held up in bed, and looked at the gentleman, who asked him how he did. He answered, ‘I am happy in Christ, and I hope you are.’ He said, ‘I hope I can say I am.’ Billy replied, ‘Has Christ pardoned your sins?’ He said, ‘I hope he has.’ ‘Sir,’ said Billy, ‘hope will not do; for I had this hope, and yet if I had died then, I should surely have gone to hell. But he has forgiven me all my sins, and given me a taste of his love. If you have this love, you will know it, and be sure of it; but you cannot know it without the power of God. You may read as many books about Christ as you please;’ (he was a great reader;) ‘but if you read all your life, this will only be in your head, and that head will perish: So that, if you have not the love of God in your heart, you will go to hell. But I hope you will not: I will pray to God for you, that he may give you his love.’

“Another, coming to see them, inquired how they were. Billy said, ‘Happier and happier in Christ: Are you so?’ He said, ‘No: I am not so happy as you.’ ‘Why,’ said Billy, ‘what is the matter? I am afraid you do not pray to Christ; for I am sure he is willing to make you happy.’

“One who sat by seemed struck with the discourse, but did not speak. Billy, observing her, said, ‘And you do not pray as you ought: For if you had the love of Christ in your heart, you would not look down so. I wish you and every one had it.’ One said, ‘My dear, would not you give it then, if you might?’ He answered, ‘No; for that would be to take Christ’s work out of his hands.’ “Many who heard what great things God had done for them, said, ‘It will not be so with you always. If you should live to come into the world again, he would leave you in the dark.’ They answered, ‘We do not think so; for our Jesus has promised that he will never leave us.’

“A young woman, who had told them so before, speaking in this manner a second time, Billy said to her, ‘Miss, are you assured of your interest in Christ?’ She answered, ‘I hope I am in Christ; but assurance is no way essential.’ He replied, ‘But if you have his love, you will be sure you have it: You will know it in your heart. I am afraid your hope is only in your head. Do you never quarrel with any body?’ She said, ‘No.’ ‘But,’ says he, ‘you quarrel with God’s word: For he has promised me, none shall pluck me out of his hand; and you say, the world will: So you make God a story-teller.’ At this she went away displeased.

“There were few came to see them, when either of them was able to speak, but they inquired into the state of their souls; and, without fear, told them the danger of dying without an assurance of the love of God.

“One coming to see them, was talked to very closely by Billy, till she could bear no more. She turned to Lucy, and said, ‘You were always good children, and never told stories.’ ‘Yes, Madam,’ said Lucy, ‘but I did, when I was afraid of being beat; and when I said my prayers; for I did not think of God; and I called him, My Father, when I was a child of wrath: And as to praying, I could not pray till it pleased him by his Spirit to show me my sins. And he showed me, we might say as many prayers as we would, and go to church or meeting; yet all this, if we had not Christ for our foundation, would not do.’

“When they were asked, if they were afraid to die, they always answered, ‘No; for what can death do? He can only lay his cold hand upon our bodies.’

“One told Lucy, ‘Now you may live as you please, since you are sure of going to heaven.’ She replied, ‘No, I would not sin against my dear Savior if you would give me this room full of gold.’ “On the Monday before he died, Billy repeated that hymn with the most triumphant joy, —

Come, let us join our cheerful songs

With angels round the throne!

Afterwards he repeated the Lord’s Prayer. The last words he spoke intelligibly were, ‘how pleasant is it to be with Christ, for ever and ever, — for ever and ever! Amen! Amen! Amen!’ “While he lay speechless, there came into the room some who he feared knew not God. He seemed much affected, wept and moaned much, waved his hand, and put it on his sister’s mouth; intimating, as she supposed, that she should speak to them. On Wednesday evening, February 1, his happy spirit returned to God.” She died soon after.

In the following days I went on slowly, through Staffordshire and Cheshire, to Manchester. In this journey, as well as in many others, I observed a mistake that almost universally prevails; and I desire all travelers to take good notice of it, which may save them both from trouble and danger. Near thirty years ago, I was thinking, “How is it that no horse ever stumbles while I am reading?” (History, poetry, and philosophy I commonly read on horseback, having other employment at other times.) No account can possibly be given but this: Because then I throw the reins on his neck. I then set myself to observe; and I aver, that in riding above an hundred thousand miles, I scarce ever remember any horse (except two, that would fall head over heels any way) to fall, or make a considerable stumble, while I rode with a slack rein. To fancy, therefore, that a tight rein prevents stumbling is a capital blunder. I have repeated the trial more frequently than most men in the kingdom can do. A slack rein will prevent stumbling, if any thing will. But in some horses nothing can.

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I preached in the new preaching-house at Rochdale, and on Saturday, 31, at Chester. Tuesday, APRIL 3. I went on to Liverpool. On Wednesday and Thursday I read Mr. Sellon’s answer to Elisha Coles’s book on God’s Sovereignty, so plausibly written, that it is no wonder so many are deceived thereby.

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I preached in Wigan at noon, and in the evening at Bolton.

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After preaching at eight and one, I hastened on to James Edmundson’s, preached to a few serious people, and gave directions to his poor sick daughter, which it is possible may save her life. Monday, 9. I rode on to Ambleside; on Tuesday, to Whitehaven.

Here I found a faintness had spread through all. No wonder, since there had been no morning preaching for some months. Yet, every morning I was here, the congregations were as large as they had been for many years.

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I met such a company of children as I have not found within an hundred miles. Several of them appeared to be convinced of sin; five rejoicing in God their Savior: And, upon inquiry, I found their whole behavior was suitable to their profession.

April 13. — (Being Good-Friday.) Notice having been given, through mistake, of my preaching at Carlisle, I was obliged to set out from Whitehaven, immediately after the morning preaching. I preached in Cockermouth at one, and then rode on to Carlisle. It was here the day of small things; the society consisting but of fifteen members. I preached at six; and as many as could hear, behaved with the utmost seriousness. Afterwards I walked to Houghton, a village two miles from Carlisle, and on an hard, clean bed, slept in peace.

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I preached at five to most of the village, though on so short a warning; and at eight in Carlisle. Leaving Mr. Rankin to preach in the evening, I rode on to Longtown; where, finding no better place to screen us from the wind, I stood in a large, broad entry, with a room on either hand. Many crowded in here; the rest stood at the door.

April 15. — (Being Easter-Day.) Joseph Guilford preached at five. At eight I preached in a little Square; but at one I was desired to preach in the market place, where was a far more numerous congregation. Afterwards we took horse, and before eight reached an admirable inn at Dumfries.

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We had a fair morning till we began to climb up Enterkine, one of the highest mountains in the west of Scotland. We then got into a Scotch mist, and were dropping wet, before we came to the Lead-Hills. In the evening we reached Lesmahagoe, and Glasgow on Tuesday, where I spent two days with much satisfaction. I had designed to go straight from hence to Perth; but being desired to take Edinburgh in my way, I rode thither on Friday, and endeavored to confirm those whom many had strove to turn out of the way. What pity is it that the children of God should so zealously do the devil’s work! How is it that they are still ignorant of Satan’s devices? Lord, what is man?

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Pushing through violent wind and rain, we came to Perth in the afternoon. This evening the Tolbooth contained the congregation, and at eight in the morning. The stormy wind would not suffer me to preach abroad in the evening; so we retired into the Court-House, as many as could, and had a solemn and comfortable hour. Monday, 23. I walked over to Scone, and took another view of that palace of ancient men of renown, long since moldered into common dust. The buildings too are now decaying apace. So passes the dream of human greatness!

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I spent a few agreeable hours with Dr. O—— an upright, friendly, sensible man. Such, likewise, I found Mr. Black, the senior Minister at Perth, who, soon after, went to Abraham’s bosom.

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Taking horse at five, we rode to Dunkeld, the first

considerable town in the Highlands. We were agreeably surprised: A pleasanter situation cannot be easily imagined. Afterwards we went some miles on a smooth, delightful road, hanging over the river Tay; and then went on, winding through the mountains, to the Castle of Blair. The mountains, for the next twenty miles, were much higher, and covered with snow. In the evening we came to Dalwhinny, the dearest inn I have met with in North-Britain. In the morning we were informed, so much snow had fallen in the night, that we could get no farther. And, indeed, three young women, attempting to cross the mountain to Blair, were swallowed up in the snow. However, we resolved, with God’s help, to go as far as we could. But about noon we were at a full stop: The snow, driving together on the top of the mountain, had quite blocked up the road. We dismounted, and, striking out of the road warily, sometimes to the left, sometimes to the right, with many stumbles, but no hurt, we got on to Dalmagarry, and before sunset, to Inverness.

Benjamin and William Chappel, who had been here three months, were waiting for a vessel to return to London. They had met a few people every night to sing and pray together; and their behavior, suitable to their profession, had removed much prejudice.

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I breakfasted with the senior Minister, Mr. M’Kenzie, a pious and friendly man. At six in the evening, I began preaching in the church, and with very uncommon liberty of spirit. At seven in the morning I preached in the library, a large commodious room; but it would not contain the congregation: Many were constrained to go away. Afterwards I rode over to Fort-George, a very regular fortification, capable of containing four thousand men. As I was just taking horse, the Commanding Officer sent word, I was welcome to preach. But it was a little too late: I had then but just time to ride back to Inverness.

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At seven, the benches being removed, the library contained us tolerably well; and, I am persuaded, God shook the hearts of many outside Christians. I preached in the church at five in the afternoon. Mr. Helton designed to preach abroad at seven; but the Ministers desired he would preach in the church, which he did, to a large and attentive congregation. Many followed us from the church to our lodgings, with whom I spent some time in prayer, and then advised them, as many as could, to meet together, and spend an hour every evening in prayer and useful conversation.

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We set out in a fine morning. A little before we reached Nairn, we were met by a messenger from the Minister, Mr. Dunbar; who desired, I would breakfast with him, and give them a sermon in his church. Afterwards we hastened to Elgin, through a pleasant and well-cultivated country. When we set out from hence, the rain began, and poured down till we came to the Spey, the most impetuous river I ever saw. Finding the large boat was in no haste to move, I stepped into a small one, just going off. It whirled us over the stream almost in a minute. I waited at the inn at Fochabers, (dark and dirty enough in all reason,) till our friends overtook me with the horses. The outside of the inn at Keith was of the same hue, and promised us no great things. But we were agreeably disappointed. We found plenty of every thing, and so dried ourselves at leisure.

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I rode on to Aberdeen, and spent the rest of the week there. It fell out well, for the weather was uncommon: We had storms of snow or rain every day. And it seems the weather was the same as far as London. So general a storm has scarce been in the memory of man.

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I preached in the College Kirk, at Old-Aberdeen, to a very serious (though mostly genteel) congregation. In the evening I preached at our own Room, and early in the morning took my leave of this loving people. We came to Montrose about noon. I had designed to preach there; but found no notice had been given. However, I went down to the Green, and sung a hymn. People presently flocked from all parts, and God gave me great freedom of speech; so that I hope we did not meet in vain. At seven in the evening I preached at Arbroath (properly Aberbrothwick). The whole town seems moved: The congregation was the largest I have seen since we left Inverness: And the society, though but of nine months’ standing, is the largest in the kingdom, next that of Aberdeen.

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I took a view of the small remains of the Abbey. I know

nothing like it in all North-Britain. I paced it, and found it an hundred yards long. The breadth is proportionable. Part of the west end, which is still standing, shows it was full as high as Westminster Abbey. The south end of the cross-aisle likewise is standing, near the top of which is a large circular window. The zealous Reformers, they told us, burnt this down. God deliver us from reforming mobs!

I have seen no town in Scotland which increases so fast, or which is built with so much common sense, as this. Two entire new streets, and part of a third, have been built within these two years. They run parallel with each other, and have a row of gardens between them. So that every house has a garden; and thus both health and convenience are consulted.

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I rode on to Dundee. The ministers here, particularly Mr. Small, are bitter enough: Notwithstanding which, the society is well established, and the congregation exceeding large. I dealt very plainly with them at six, and still more so the next evening: Yet none appeared to be offended. Friday, 11. I went forward to Edinburgh. Saturday, 12. I received but a melancholy account of the state of things here. The congregations were nearly as usual; but the society which, when I was here before, consisted of above an hundred and sixty members, was now shrunk to about fifty. Such is the fruit of a single Preacher’s staying a whole year in one place! together with the labors of good Mr. Townshend.

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At seven I preached in the chapel taken by Lady Glenorchy, which stands at a great distance from ours, in the most honorable part of the city. Between twelve and one I preached in the High-School yard, it being too stormy to preach on the Castle-Hill. A little before six I preached in our chapel, crowded above and below; but I doubt, with little effect: Exceeding few seemed to feel what they heard.

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After ten years inquiry, I have learned what are the Highlands of Scotland. Some told me, “The Highlands begin when you cross the Tay;” others, “when you cross the North Esk;” and others, “when you cross the river Spey:” But all of them missed the mark. For the truth of the matter is, the Highlands are bounded by no river at all, but by Carns, or heaps of stones laid in a row, southwest and northeast, from sea to sea. These formerly divided the kingdom of the Picts from that of the Caledonians, which included all the country north of the Carns; several whereof are still remaining. It takes in Argyleshire, most of Perthshire, Murrayshire, with all the northwest counties. This is called the Highlands, because a considerable part of it (though not the whole) is mountainous. But it is not more mountainous than North-Wales, nor than many parts of England and Ireland: Nor do I believe it has any mountain higher than Snowdon hill, or the Skiddaw in Cumberland. Talking Erse, therefore, is not the thing that distinguishes these from the Lowlands. Neither is this or that river; both the Tay, the Esk, and the Spey running through the Highlands, not south of them.

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At five in the morning I took a solemn leave of our friends at Edinburgh. About eight I preached at Musselburgh, and found some hope, there will be a blessing in the remnant. In the evening I preached in the new House at Dunbar, the cheerfullest in the kingdom. Friday, 18. We rode over to the Earl of Haddington’s seat, finely situated between two woods. The house is exceeding large and pleasant, commanding a wide prospect both ways; and the Earl is cutting walks through the woods, smoothing the ground, and much enlarging and beautifying his garden. Yet he is to die! In the evening I trust God broke some of the stony hearts of Dunbar. A little increase here is in the society likewise; and all the members walk unblamably.

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At noon I preached in the Town-Hall at Berwick. Coming to Alnwick in the afternoon, I found that wise and good man, William Coward, had been buried two or three days before. I judged it right to do honor to his memory, by preaching a kind of funeral sermon, on, “There is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.”

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At seven I preached in the House; at four and at seven in the market place; but the multitude was so great, that I doubt many could not hear. I then met the society, and we seemed to breathe the same spirit with him that was just entered into the joy of his Lord.

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I preached at Morpeth and at Newcastle. On Wednesday, 23, I went over to Sunderland. Saturday, 26. We went by water to North-Biddick. The preaching here had been discontinued for many years, as it seemed to be sowing upon the sand; but at length we found the fruit of our labor. Many are both convinced and converted to God. In returning, as we were four large boats in company, we made The mountains and vales his praises rebound.

So is even the water-language now changed!

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At eight I preached near the Cross in Sunderland, to such an assembly as was never seen there before. But I believe that at Gateshead-Fell was still larger; as was that at the Castle-Garth, in Newcastle. Monday, 28. I began again the meeting of the children, which had been neglected for some months; and we had a token for good: Two or three were cut to the heart; and many seemed much affected. On Tuesday, 29, and the following days, I took a little circuit through Weardale, Teesdale, and Swaledale. The ten days following I spent in and near Newcastle. Monday, JUNE 11. I took a cheerful leave of that loving people; about noon preached at Durham; and in the evening, before Mr. Watson’s door, to a numerous congregation at Stockton.

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At five I preached in the new House, strangely raised, when the case appeared quite desperate, by God’s touching the heart of a man of substance, who bought the ground and built it without delay. I preached at Norton at noon, and afterwards met those who can “rejoice evermore,” and “pray without ceasing.” We had another comfortable opportunity at Yarm in the evening, where I found a greater number of those who believe God has enabled them to love him with all their heart and soul.

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I preached at Halsey, ten miles from Yarm, and in the evening at Thirsk. Thursday, 14. About two, at Potto; and in the evening at Hutton. Here, as well as elsewhere, those who believe they are saved from sin undergo many trials from their brethren. But so much the more will “the God of all grace, after” they “have suffered a while, stablish, strengthen, and settle” them.

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I was agreeably surprised to find the whole road from Thirsk to Stokesley, which used to be extremely bad, better than most turnpikes. The gentlemen had exerted themselves, and raised money enough to mend it effectually. So they have done for several hundred miles in Scotland, and throughout all Connaught in Ireland; and so they undoubtedly might do throughout all England, without saddling the poor people with the vile imposition of turnpikes for ever.

In the afternoon we came to Whitby. Having preached thrice a day for five days, I was willing to preach in the House; but notice had been given of my preaching in the market place; so I began at six, to a large congregation, most of them deeply attentive.

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I found our Preacher, James Brownfield, had just set up for himself. The reasons he gave for leaving the Methodists were,

1. That they went to church.

2. That they held Perfection.

I earnestly desired our society to leave him to God, and say nothing about him, good or bad. In the afternoon I looked over Dr. Priestley’s “English Grammar.” I wonder he would publish it after Bishop Lowth’s.

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I met the select society, consisting of sixty-five members. I believe all of these were saved from sin; most of them are still in glorious liberty. Many of them spake with admirable simplicity; and their words were like fire. Immediately the flame kindled, and spread from heart to heart. At eight I preached; at nine, met the children, most of whom had known the love of God; and several of them were able still to rejoice in God their Savior. Almost as soon as I began to speak, God spoke to their hearts, and they were ill able to contain themselves. I observed one little maid in particular, who heaved and strove for some time, till at length she was constrained to yield, and break out into strong cries and tears. We had a poor sermon at church. However, I went again in the afternoon, remembering the words of Mr. Philip Henry, “If the Preacher does not know his duty, I bless God that I know mine.”

Between one and two I met the Bands, being near two thirds of the society. Their openess was quite surprising, as well as the spirit with which they spoke. One plain woman cried, and spoke, and cried again, so that they were in tears on every side. I suppose, if I could have stayed so long, some or other would have spoke till night.

At five I preached in the market place again, to a far larger congregation than before. One love-feast took up the next two hours, at which many were filled with solemn joy. Afterwards I met a few of the children again, all of whom had tasted that the Lord is gracious. I asked her that cried so violently in the morning what was the matter with her. She said, “I was so overwhelmed with the power and love of God that I could not hide it.” When I questioned her farther, she said, “A quarter of a year ago, one Saturday night, I was quite convinced I was a sinner, and afraid of dropping into hell; but on Sunday I felt the pardoning love of God; yet I had many doubts till Monday evening, when they were all taken away in a moment. After this, I saw and I felt the wickedness of my heart, and longed to be delivered from it; and on Sunday I was delivered, and had as clear a witness of this, as of my justification. But I was sometimes off my watch; then it was not so clear; and people commended me, till, by little and little, I lost it. Indeed I still feel the love of God, but not as I did before.”

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I preached at Robin Hood’s Bay about noon; at Scarborough in the evening. Wednesday, 20. I rode to Burlington, and preached on the quay, to many plain and many genteel people. I preached at Hull in the evening; and the next at Beverley. Friday, 22. I went on to York, where there is now more life among the people than has been for several years. We found much of the presence of God this evening, and much more the next. One young man was in a violent agony, and could not refrain from crying aloud. Several continued with him in prayer till ten o’clock. He was then filled with joy unspeakable.

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I met the select society at six, and had the pleasure to find that some who had lost the great blessing for months or years, had recovered it with large increase. At eight I preached to a people ready prepared for the Lord. At nine I met the children. At five, by taking out the benches, we made room for the greatest part of the congregation. Afterwards I spent an hour with the society, and so concluded the busy, happy day.

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I preached in Tadcaster at noon, and at Pateley-Bridge in the evening. It rained, as usual, all the time; but the congregation stood as still as the trees; and God did satisfy the hungry with good things, many of whom have given him all their heart.

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It rained all the time I was preaching at Otley, to a numerous congregation; and they drank in the words of life, just as the thirsting earth the showers. The next evening I preached in the House at Yeadon, the rain not suffering us to stand abroad.

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I rode to Mr. Sutcliffe’s at Hoohole; a lovely valley,

encompassed with high mountains. I stood on the smooth grass before his house, (which stands on a gently rising ground,) and all the people on the slope before me. It was a glorious opportunity. I trust many “came boldly to the throne,” and found “grace to help in time of need.” I can hardly believe that I am this day entered into the sixty-eighth year of my age. How marvelous are the ways of God! How has he kept me even from a child! From ten to thirteen or fourteen, I had little but bread to eat, and not great plenty of that. I believe this was so far from hurting me, that it laid the foundation of lasting health. When I grew up, in consequence of reading Dr. Cheyne, I chose to eat sparingly, and drink water. This was another great means of continuing my health, till I was about seven and-twenty. I then began spitting of blood, which continued several years. A warm climate cured this. I was afterwards brought to the brink of death by a fever; but it left me healthier than before. Eleven years after, I was in the third stage of a consumption; in three months it pleased God to remove this also. Since that time I have known neither pain nor sickness, and am now healthier than I was forty years ago. This hath God wrought! On Friday and Saturday I preached at Heptonstall, Colne, and Keighley.

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Being much concerned for the poor parishioners of

Haworth, who hear and hear, and are no more affected than stones, I spoke to them in the most cutting manner I could. May God apply it to their hearts!

On Monday and Tuesday I preached at Bingley and Bradford; and Wednesday, 4, rode to Halifax. Here I had an opportunity of inquiring thoroughly into a very extraordinary case. On January 26, 1760, a young woman of two-and-twenty, felt, in the evening, an uncommon coldness at her feet. Presently after she was seized with convulsions. The disorder from that time attended her, more or less, every day, in spite of all the medicines which were administered by the most skillful Physicians. One of her fits began a little before we went in. At first she fell back in her chair, seemingly senseless, and wrought (like one strangled) in her breast and throat. In two or three minutes she sprung up, turned round many times, then dropped down, and began beating her head against the stone floor. Quickly she started up, leaped right upwards many times; then ran to and to with an hundred odd gesticulations. She beat herself on the head, tore her hair, and attempted to run into the fire. Being put into a chair, she spoke a good deal, but not articulately. She was convulsed again from head to foot; and afterwards said wildly, “Where am I? Who are these? I want my father. I will go to my father.” In about an hour she came to her senses. I should have imagined the Physicians would have supposed all this to be counterfeit. But it seems one and all thought that could not be, as she could have no motive to feign, since she gained nothing thereby, living upon the fruit of her own and her father’s labor. And many of the circumstances could not be accounted for, upon that supposition. Such were her tears, her foaming at the mouth, her tearing her hair, striking herself, and beating her head against the stones; her strong convulsions; and what none can well conceive unless he saw it, the change of her countenance, which was horrid and dreadful, yea, diabolical, as long as the fits were upon her, but was remarkably pretty and agreeable, as soon as she came to herself.

When old Dr. A——r was asked, what her disorder was he answered, “It is what formerly they would have called being bewitched.” And why should they not call it so now? Because the infidels have hooted witchcraft out of the world; and the complaisant Christians, in large numbers, have joined with them in the cry. I do not so much wonder at this, — that many of these should herein talk like infidels. But I have sometimes been inclined to wonder at the pert, saucy, indecent manner wherein some of those trample upon men far wiser than themselves; at their speaking so dogmatically against what not only the whole world, heathen and Christian, believed in past ages, but thousands, learned as well as unlearned, firmly believe at this day. I instance in Dr. Smollett and Mr. Guthrie, whose manner of speaking concerning witchcraft must be extremely offensive to every sensible man, who cannot give up his Bible.

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I preached at six at Daw Green, near Dewsbury. All things contributed to make it a refreshing season; the gently-declining sun, the stillness of the evening, the beauty of the meadows and fields, through which

The smooth clear “river drew its sinuous train;”

the opposite hills and woods, and the earnestness of the people, covering the top of the hill on which we stood; and, above all, the day-spring from on high, the consolation of the Holy One!

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I rode to Miss Bosanquet’s. Her family is still a pattern, and a general blessing to the country. Sunday, 8. I preached at Whitechapel, Birstal, and Leeds, at each to as many as my voice could reach. Monday, 9. About noon I preached at Woodhouse, a village near Leeds, where a flame is suddenly broke out. Few days pass without fresh displays of the grace of God, converting sinners to himself; and a spirit of childlike, simple love runs through the whole body of the people. Tuesday, 10. I rode to Harewood, and preached to a large congregation of the same spirit with that at Woodhouse. Here, too, the word of God runs swiftly; many are convinced, and many converted to God.

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I rode to Doncaster, and preached at noon in the new House, one of the neatest in England. It was sufficiently crowded, and (what is more strange) with serious and attentive hearers. What was more unlikely, some years since, than that such an House or such a congregation should be seen here! In the evening I preached at Finningley. The church was filled; but I fear few felt the word.

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I preached at Epworth. Friday, 13. We rode through heavy

rain to Newton-upon-Trent. The weather clearing up, I preached before the House to an earnest congregation. A people more loving, more artless, or more athirst for God, I have seldom seen. Taking horse about eleven, we rode, broiling in the sun, through Lincoln to Horncastle. Our brethren desiring me to preach in the market place, I cried to an unbroken multitude, “What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” The power of God was upon them, and they all calmly attended, till I commended them to God.

This was the first day that I have been weary (the violent heat drinking up my spirits) since I set out from London. Saturday, 14. In another sultry day we rode to Louth, formerly another den of lions. At first great part of the congregation seemed to “care for none of these things.” But God made them care; the Lord looked down from heaven, and “his arrows went abroad.” I have seldom seen persons more sensibly struck. They gathered closer and closer together, till there was not one inattentive hearer, and hardly one unaffected. In riding hence the heat was as intense as ever; so that I was again tired before we reached Grimsby. But I soon recovered, and preached to a congregation to good old Methodists, on, Daniel in the Den of Lions.

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I preached at eight, and again at two, and they hastened away to Barrow. The people here much resembled those at Horncastle. So I would not take them out of their depth, but explained and enforced these solemn words, “It is appointed unto men once to die.” Monday, 16. At nine I preached in Awkborough, to a people of quite another kind. So I spoke to them directly of “Christ Crucified,” and the salvation which is through him. About noon I preached to a people of the same spirit at Amcoats. In the evening, the House at Swinfleet not being able to contain a third of the congregation, I preached on a smooth, green place, sheltered from the wind, on Hebrews 7:25. Many rejoiced to hear of being “saved to the uttermost,” the very thing which their souls longed after.

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I preached in the market place at Thorne: All were quiet, and tolerably attentive.

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About noon I preached at Crowle. This is the place, the former Rector of which, contemporary with my father, ordered those words to be inscribed upon his tomb-stone: — HERE LIES THE BODY

OF

SOLOMON ASHBURN,

FORTY YEARS RECTOR OF THIS PARISH.

“All the day long have I stretched out my hands Unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.

So I gave them up unto their own hearts’ lusts, And let them follow their own imaginations.” They did follow them for many years; but at length God hath visited them.

Friday and Saturday I spent at Epworth. Sunday, 22. About eight I preached at Misterton; at one about half a mile from Haxey church; and at five on Epworth Cross, to the largest congregation in Lincolnshire, on, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.”

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I preached at Doncaster and Rotherham; on Tuesday and

Wednesday at Sheffield. On Wednesday evening my heart was so enlarged, that I knew not how to leave off. Do some say, “I preach longer than usual when I am barren?” It is quite the contrary with me. I never exceed, but when I am full of matter; and still I consider it may not be with my audience as with me. So that it is strange if I exceed my time above a quarter of an hour.

On Thursday and Friday I preached at Creitch, Derby,

Burton-upon-Trent, and Ashby. Saturday, 28. I rode to

Castle-Donnington; but hay-making had emptied the town, till a violent shower brought all the hay-makers home, who received the good word with gladness.

At seven I preached in Nottingham; Sunday, 29, at Sanjaker, where God was eminently present. At five in the evening I went to the market place in Nottingham. Thousands upon thousands flocked together; and all were still as night, while I opened and applied, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.” We closed the day with a love-feast, during which four mourners found peace with God; two of them could not avoid declaring it in the presence of all their brethren.

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I preached at Bingham, ten miles from Nottingham. I really admired the exquisite stupidity of the people. They gaped and stared while I was speaking of death and judgment, as if they had never heard of such things before. And they were not helped by two surly, ill-mannered Clergymen, who seemed to be just as wise as themselves. The congregation at Houghton in the evening was more noble, behaving with the utmost decency.

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At nine I preached in the market place at Loughborough, to almost as large a congregation as at Nottingham, and equally attentive. Thence I rode to Markfield. Notwithstanding the harvest, the church was quickly filled. And great was our rejoicing in our great High Priest, through whom we “came boldly to the throne of grace.” In the evening I preached in the Castle-yard at Leicester, to a multitude of awakened and unawakened. One feeble attempt was made to disturb them; a man was sent to cry fresh salmon at a little distance; but he might as well have spared the pains, for none took the least notice of him.

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I rode to Northampton. It being still extremely hot, I determined not to be cooped up, but took my stand on the side of the Common, and cried aloud to a large multitude of rich and poor, “Acquaint thyself now with him, and be at peace.”

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Some friends from London met us at St. Alban’s. Before

dinner we took a walk in the Abbey, one of the most ancient buildings in the kingdom, near a thousand years old; and one of the largest, being five hundred and sixty feet in length, (considerably more than Westminster Abbey,) and broad and high in proportion. Near the east end is the tomb and vault of good Duke Humphrey. Some now living remember since his body was entire. But after the coffin was opened, so many were curious to taste the liquor in which it was preserved, that in a little time the corpse was left bare, and then soon moldered away. A few bones are now all that remain. How little is the spirit concerned at this!

Sunday, 5, and for five or six days this week, the heat was as great as I remember in Georgia. Tuesday, 7. Our Conference began, and ended on

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On Sunday evening I set out in the machine, and the next evening preached at Bristol. Saturday, 18. I gave a solemn warning to a large congregation on Redcliff-Hill, from those awful words, “The time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God.” Surely it will; unless a general repentance prevent a general visitation.

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I rode to Charlton. The violent heat continuing, I preached in the evening under a tree to a congregation who were all attention. Tuesday,

21. I rode on to Tiverton, and thence through Launceston, Camelford, Port-Isaac, Cubert, St. Agnes, and Redruth, to St. Ives. Here God has made all our enemies to be at peace with us, so that I might have preached in any part of the town. But I rather chose a meadow, where such as would might sit down, either on the grass or on the hedges, — so the Cornish term their broad stone walls, which are usually covered with grass. Here I enforced, “Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole of man.”

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Being desired to preach in the town, for the sake of some who could not come up the hill, I began near the market place, at eight, on, “Without holiness no man shall see the Lord.” We had an useful sermon at church, and another in the afternoon, delivered in a strong and earnest manner. At five I preached again. Well nigh all the town were present, and thousands from all parts of the country; to whom I explained, “The Son of God was manifested to destroy the works of the devil.”

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I was surprised to find, that the select society had been wholly neglected. I got a few of them together; but did not find so much as one, who had not given up his confidence. At nine I renewed the meeting of the children, which had also been given up for a long season. But so dead a company have I seldom seen. I found scarce one spark of even the fear of God among them.

To the evening I preached before the House at St. Just, on, “I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God.” It was a glorious hour. The same spirit breathed upon us, at the meeting of the society. At such a season, who does not feel that nothing is too hard for God?

On Tuesday and Wednesday I preached at Newlyn, Goldsithney and St. John’s. Thursday, 30. I rode to Falmouth; and preached at two in the afternoon near the church, to a greater number of people than I ever saw there before; except the mob, five-and-twenty years ago. I preached at Penryn in the evening; Friday noon in Crowan; in the evening at Treworgey, near Redruth.

Here I met with an ingenious book, the late Lord Lyttleton’s “Dialogues of the Dead.” A great part of it I could heartily subscribe to, though not to every word. I believe Madam Guion was in several mistakes, speculative and practical too: Yet I would no more dare to call her, than her friend, Archbishop Fenelon, “a distracted enthusiast.” She was undoubtedly a woman of a very uncommon understanding, and of excellent piety. Nor was she any more “a lunatic,” than she was an heretic.

Another of this lively writer’s assertions is, “Martin has spawned a strange brood of fellows, called Methodists, Moravians, Hutchinsonians, who are madder than Jack was in his worst days.” I would ask any one who knows what good breeding means, is this language for a nobleman or a porter? But let the language be as it may, is the sentiment just? To say nothing of the Methodists, (although some of them too are not quite out of their senses,) could his Lordship show me in England many more sensible men than Mr. Gambold and Mr. Okely? And yet both of these were called Moravians. Or could he point out many men of stronger and deeper understanding than Dr. Horne and Mr. William Jones? (if he could pardon them for believing the Trinity!) And yet both of those are Hutchinsonians. What pity is it, that so ingenious a man, like many others gone before him, should pass so peremptory a sentence in a cause which he does not understand! Indeed, how could he understand it? How much has he read upon the question? What sensible Methodist, Moravian, or Hutchinsonian did he ever calmly converse with? What does he know of them, but; from the caricaturas drawn by Bishop Lavington, or Bishop Warburton? And did he ever give himself the trouble of reading the answers to those warm, lively men? Why should a good-natured and a thinking man thus condemn whole bodies of men by the lump? In this I can neither read the gentleman, the scholar, nor the Christian.

Since the writing of this, Lord Lyttleton is no more; he is mingled with common dust. But as his book survives, there still needs an answer to the unjust reflections contained therein.

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I took a walk to the top of that celebrated hill,

Carn-Brae. Here are many monuments of remote antiquity, scarce to be found in any other part of Europe: Druid altars of enormous size, being only huge rocks, strangely suspended one upon the other; and rockbasins, hollowed on the surface of the rock, it is supposed, to contain the holy water. It is probable these are at least co-evil with Pompey’s Theatre, if not with the Pyramids of Egypt. And what are they the better for this? Of what consequence is it either to the dead or the living, whether they have withstood the wastes of time for three thousand, or three hundred years? AN EXTRACT

OF THE

REV. MR. JOHN WESLEY’S

JOURNAL

FROM SEPTEMBER 2, 1770, TO SEPTEMBER 12, 1773.

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At five in the evening I preached in the natural

amphitheater at Gwennap. The people covered a circle of near fourscore yards’ diameter, and could not be fewer than twenty thousand. Yet, upon inquiry, I found they could all hear distinctly, it being a calm, still evening.

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Between eight and nine, while I was preaching at Truro, we had only a few light showers; although, a few miles off, there was impetuous rain, with violent thunder and lightning. About noon I preached at Mevagissey, in a vacant space near the middle of the town, and strongly applied those words, “Turn ye, turn ye, from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of’ Israel?” At six I stood at the head of the street, in St. Austle, and enforced, on a large and quiet congregation, “Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” After visiting Medros, Plymouth, and Collumpton, I came on Friday, 7, to Taunton. Presently after preaching, I took horse. The rain obliged us to make haste; but in a while the saddle came over his neck, and then turned under his belly. I had then only to throw myself off, or I must have fallen under him. I was a little bruised, but soon mounted again, and rode to Lympsham, and the next day to Bristol.

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My voice was weak when I preached at Princes-Street in the morning. It was stronger at two in the afternoon, while I was preaching under the sycamore tree in Kingswood; and strongest of all at five in the evening, when we assembled near King’s Square in Bristol.

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In the evening I preached at Frome; but not abroad, as I designed, because of the rain. The next evening I preached in the adjoining meadow, to as quiet a congregation as that in the House.

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The appointed Preacher not coming in time, I preached myself at five; at eight in Princes-Street, at two in Kingswood, and near King’s Square at five in the evening, Saturday, 15.

It was the day before, that I first observed a very uncommon concern in the children at Kingswood School, while I was explaining, and enforcing upon them, the first principles of religion.

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Most of them went to see the body of Francis Evans, one of our neighbors, who died two or three days before. About seven Mr. Hindmarsh met them all in the school, and gave an exhortation suited to the occasion. He then gave out that hymn, —

And am I born to die,

To lay this body down?

And must my trembling spirit fly

Into a world unknown?

This increased their concern; so that it was with great difficulty they contained themselves till he began to pray. Then Al——r M——r, and R——d N——e, cried aloud for mercy; and quickly another and another, till all but two or three were constrained to do the same; and as long as he continued to pray, they continued the same loud and bitter cry. One of the maids, Elizabeth Nutt, was as deeply convinced as any of them. After prayer, Mr. H. said, “Those of you who are resolved to serve God may go and pray together.” Fifteen of them did so, and continued wrestling with God, with strong cries and tears, till about nine o’clock.

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At the morning prayer many of them cried out again, though not so violently. From this time their whole spirit and behavior were changed: They were all serious and loving to each other. The same seriousness and mildness continued on Thursday; and they walked together, talking only of the things of God. On Friday evening their concern greatly increased, and caused them to break out again into strong cries. Saturday, 22. They seemed to lose none of their concern, and spent all their spare time in prayer.

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Fifteen of them gave me their names; being resolved, they said, to serve God. In the afternoon I gave them a strong exhortation, and afterward Mr. Rankin. Their very countenances were entirely changed. They drank in every word.

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During the time of prayer in the evening, they were affected just as the Tuesday before. The two other maids were then present, and were both cut to the heart.

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“I rode,” says Mr. Rankin, “in the afternoon to Kingswood, and went up stairs, in order to retire a little. But when I came up, I heard one of the boys at prayer, in an adjoining room. I listened a while, and was exceedingly struck with many of his expressions. When he ceased I went in, and found two others with him. Just then three more came in. I went to prayer. The Lord seemed to rest upon them all, and pierced their hearts with deep conviction. The next morning I spent some time with all the children, and then desired those who were resolved to save their souls, to come up stairs with me. I went up, and nine of the children followed me, who said they were determined to ‘flee from the wrath to come.’ I exhorted them never to rest till they found peace with God; and then sung and prayed. The power of God came down in so wonderful a manner, that my voice was drowned by their cries. When I concluded, one of them broke out into prayer, in a manner that quite astonished me; and, during the whole day, a peculiar spirit of seriousness rested on all the children. “After spending some time in the school on Friday, I desired those I had spoke to the day before, to follow me; which they did, and one more. I pressed each of them severally, not to rest till he had a clear sense of the pardoning love of God. I then prayed, and the Lord poured out his Spirit as the day before; so that, in a few minutes, my voice could not be heard amidst their cries and groans.”

“On Friday, 28,” says Mr. Hindmarsh, “when I came out into the ground, ten of the children quickly gathered round about me, earnestly asking, what they must do to be saved: Nor could I disengage myself from them, till the bell rang for dinner. All this time we observed, the children who were most affected learned faster and better than any of the rest.

“In the evening, I explained to all the children the nature of the Lord’s Supper. I then met twelve of them apart, and spoke to each particularly. When I asked one of them, Simon Lloyd, ‘What do you want to make you happy?’ after a little pause, he answered, ‘God.’ We went to prayer. Presently a cry arose from one and another, till it ran through all, vehemently calling upon God, and refusing to be comforted without the knowledge and the love of God.

“About half-hour after eight, I bade them good night, and sent them up to bed. But Lloyd, Brown, and Robert Hindmarsh slipped aside, when the rest went up, being resolved they would not sleep, nor rest, till God revealed himself to them. When they began to pray, some of the others heard them, and one and another stole down, some half dressed, some almost naked. They continued praying by turns near three quarters of an hour, in which time, first one, then a second, and before they concluded, two more found peace with God. I then went to them, and asked Bobby Hindmarsh, ‘Why did you slip aside?’ He said, ‘Simon Lloyd, and Jacky Brown, and I had agreed together, that we would not sleep till the Lord set us at liberty.’ After I had prayed with them, and praised God till about half-hour past nine, I desired them to go to bed. They did so; all but those three, who slipped away, and stayed with Richard Piercy, who was in deep agony of soul, and would by no means be persuaded to rise from his knees. The children above, hearing them pray, in a few minutes ran down again. They continued wrestling, with still increasing cries and tears, till three more found peace with God. About a quarter past ten, I went to them again, and observing some of them quite hoarse, insisted upon their going to bed, which all of them then did. But quickly one, and then another, stole out of bed, till, in a quarter of an hour, they were all at prayer again. And the concern among them was deeper than ever, as well as more general; there being but four of our five-and-twenty children, that did not appear to be cut to the heart. However, fearing they might hurt themselves, I sent one of our maids to persuade them to go up. But Jacky Brown catching hold of her, said, ‘O Betty, seek the salvation of your soul! Seek it in earnest! It is not too late: And it is not too soon.’ Immediately she fell upon her knees, and burst out into tears and strong cries. The two other maids hearing this, ran in, and were presently seized as violently as her. Jacky Brown then began praying for Betty, and continued in prayer near three quarters of an hour. By that time there was a general cry from all the maids, as well as the boys. This continued till past eleven. My wife, and I, and Mr. Keard, then went in, and fearing some of them might be hurt, with difficulty prevailed upon them to go to bed, and went up with them.

“The maids continued below in much distress. We talked with them a little, and left them praying. But it was not above a quarter of an hour, before Betty broke out into thanksgiving. Going in, I asked her, ‘Now is the love of God free?’ She answered, ‘Free as air: Blessed be God, that ever I came under this roof!’ The other two remained on their knees, praying as in an agony. I desired them to go into their own room, and they did: Yet would not go to bed, but continued in prayer.

“Saturday, 29, I was waked between four and five by the children vehemently crying to God. The maids went to them at five: And first one of the boys, then another, then one and another of the maids, earnestly poured out their souls before God, both for themselves and for the rest. They continued weeping and praying till nine o’clock, not thinking about meat or drink: Nay, Richard Piercy took no food all the day, but remained, in words or groans, calling upon God.

“About nine, Diana went into her own room, and prayed, partly alone, partly with Betty. About ten, (as Betty was praying,) her strength was quite spent; and she sunk down as dead. She lay so for some minutes, while the other prayed on; but then suddenly started up, praising God with all her might, and rejoicing with joy unspeakable.

“Mary hearing her voice, broke off her work, and ran in to her in haste. They all remained praying by turns till twelve, when she lay like one at the point to die. But there was not yet any answer to prayer, nor any deliverance.

“About one, all the maids, and three of the boys, went upstairs, and began praying again. And now they found the Lord’s hand was not shortened. Between two and three, Mary likewise rejoiced with joy unspeakable. They all continued together till after four, praising the God of their salvation. Indeed they seemed to have forgotten all things here below, and to think of nothing but God and heaven.

“In the evening, all the maids, and many of the boys, not having been used to so long and violent speaking, were worn out, as to bodily strength, and so hoarse that they were scarce able to speak: But they were strong in the spirit, full of love, and of joy and peace in believing. Sunday, 30. Eight of the children, and the three maids, received the Lord’s Supper for the first time. And hitherto, they are all rejoicing in God, and walking worthy of the Gospel.” All this time it was observed, that there was an uncommon revival of the work of God, in all the societies round about. That in Kingswood, within a few months, increased from an hundred and eighteen, to above three hundred members; and every day more and more were convinced of sin, and more and more enabled to rejoice in God their Savior. Mon. October 1, and the following days, I preached at many of the towns round Bristol, and found the congregations increasing in every place.

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My brother and I complied with the desire of many of our

friends, and agreed to administer the Lord’s Supper every other Sunday at Bristol. We judged it best to have the entire Service, and so began at nine o’clock. After it was ended, I rode to Kingswood, gave an exhortation to the children, and preached to as many as the House would contain. A little before five, I began at the Square, and found no want of strength. At the conclusion of the Morning Service I was weak and weary, hardly able to speak. After preaching at Kingswood, I was better; and at night quite fresh and well.

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I preached at Pensford and Shepton-Mallet in my way to

Wincanton, one of the dullest places in all the county. I preached on Death in the evening, and Hell in the morning. Tuesday, 9. It seemed, these were the very subjects they wanted. I never saw this careless people so much affected before.

I preached in Shaftesbury at noon, in Salisbury at night. Wednesday, 10. I preached at Fordingbridge, to a serious, well-behaved congregation: Only two young gentlewomen were at first inclined to mirth. But in the evening, two young women at Salisbury retained their mirth to the end; being greatly diverted with hearing of “the dead, small and great, standing before God!” Now what understanding have these pretty things? Have they as much as many children six years old?

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About eleven I preached at Winchester, to a genteel and yet serious congregation. I was a little tired before I came to Portsmouth, but the congregation soon made me forget my weariness. Indeed the people in general here are more noble than most in the south of England. They receive the word of God “with all readiness of mind,” and show civility, at least, to all that preach it.

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I walked round the Dock, much larger than any other in

England. The late fire began in a place where no one comes, just at low water, and at a time when all were fast asleep. So that none can doubt its being done by design. It spread with such amazing violence, among tow, and cordage, and dry wood, that none could come near without the utmost danger. Nor was anything expected, but that the whole Dock: would be consumed, if not the town also. But this God would not permit. It stopped on one side, close to the Commissioner’s house; and just as it was seizing the town on the other side, the wind changed and drove it back. Afterwards the fury of it was checked, by water, by sand, and by pulling down some buildings. And yet it was full five weeks before it was wholly put out. Saturday, 13. I set out at two, and in the afternoon came to the Foundry.

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I set out for Oxfordshire, and was thoroughly wet in my way to Wallingford. The congregation was large, and deeply serious. Tuesday,

16. I preached at Witney, in the new House, and again on Thursday morning. After service, many crowding with me into the House, I spent some time with them in prayer. It was a happy opportunity; and many praised God for the consolation they received.

We had afterwards a fair and pleasant ride to High-Wycomb. For many years we had little prospect of doing good here; but now the seed which had been so long dead, springs up into a plentiful harvest. Friday, 19. I conversed particularly with several who believe God has saved them from sin; and their lives, I find, are suitable thereto, and do in no wise dishonor their profession.

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I returned to London. So rainy a week I have seldom seen; yet we have not had one shower while we were abroad, except on Monday morning. Poor reasoners! who think: any instance of Providence too small to be observed or acknowledged!

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I took horse a little before five, in an exceeding thick fog; but it was gone by noon. The rain, which was suspended all day, began again when we came to Whittlebury; where, notwithstanding the rain and boisterous wind, the Room was filled, both in the evening and morning. On Tuesday noon I preached at Toncaster, and in the evening at Weedon. Here I heard a remarkable account: — An eminently profane man, two or three days ago, was swearing to his companions, that he should outlive forty of them. Instantly he began vomiting blood; and in ten minutes was stone-dead.

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I preached at Weedon at five, and about nine at Kislingbury, where I was obliged, by the largeness of the congregation, to stand in the open air. At first the sun on the side was full warm, as it was about noon at Horlston. Thence I rode to Northampton, where we had now a more commodious place to preach in, formerly used by the Presbyterians. The people heard with great attention; and many of them came at five in the morning. Thursday, 25. About ten I began at Brighton, where, likewise, the multitude of people constrained me to preach abroad. About two I preached at Haddon, to a far greater multitude, in a delightful meadow. Nor did I find any want of strength when I concluded the day by preaching and meeting the society at Northampton. On Friday I preached at Bedford; on Saturday noon at Hertford; and in the afternoon went on to London.

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I rode to Colchester; and on Tuesday to Norwich.

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In applying those solemn words, “As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, there is but a step between me and death,” my heart was enlarged, and my mouth opened both to convince and comfort. Surely, in spite of the marvelous ignorance which prevails among the generality of people in this city, and the uncommon stumbling-blocks which have been thrown in their way, the work of God will not only continue, but increase.

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I rode to Yarmouth, — a dull, cold place: Yet this

evening we had a remarkable blessing, as also the next evening. Lord, thy thoughts are not as our thoughts! Thou wilt work; and who shall hinder?

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At seven I met the society at Norwich, and administered the Lord’s Supper to about an hundred and fourscore persons. Monday, 5. I met the Leaders, and inquired into the state of the society. In all England I find no people like those of Norwich. They are eminently “unstable as water.” Out of two hundred, whom I left here last year, sixty-nine are gone already! What a blessing is knowledge when it is sanctified! What stability can be expected without it? For let their affections be ever so lively for the present, yet what hold can you have upon a people who neither know books, nor men; neither themselves, nor the Bible; neither natural nor spiritual things?

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I read and abridged an old treatise, on “the Origin of the Soul.” I never before saw anything on the subject so satisfactory. I think he proves to a demonstration, that God has enabled man, as all other creatures, to propagate his whole species, consisting of soul and body.

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I set out for London. It rained almost all the day; and in the afternoon so impetuously, (the rain being driven upon us by a furious wind,) that it was with difficulty we reached Lakenheath. Here we found Mr. Evans just worn out, a picture of human nature in disgrace. He had not only no more strength than a little child, but no more understanding!

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About ten I preached at Bury, and at Braintree in the evening. Finding I was among stocks, I was obliged to strike with all my might; and I trust God did strike some of the flinty hearts.

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I returned to London, and had the melancholy news of Mr.

Whitefield’s death confirmed by his executors, who desired me to preach his funeral sermon on Sunday, the 18th. In order to write this, I retired to Lewisham on Monday; and on Sunday following, went to the chapel in Tottenham-Court-Road. An immense multitude was gathered together from all corners of the town. I was at first afraid that a great part of the congregation would not be able to hear; but it pleased God so to strengthen my voice, that even those at the door heard distinctly. It was an awful season: All were still as night: Most appeared to be deeply affected; and an impression was made on many, which one would hope will not speedily be effaced.

The time appointed for my beginning at the Tabernacle was half-hour after five: But it was quite filled at three; so I began at four. At first the noise was exceeding great; but it ceased when I began to speak; and my voice was again so strengthened that all who were within could hear, unless an accidental noise hindered here or there for a few moments. O that all may hear the voice of Him with whom are the issues of life and death; and who so loudly, by this unexpected stroke, calls all his children to love one another!

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Being desired by the Trustees of the Tabernacle at Greenwich to preach Mr. Whitefield’s funeral sermon there, I went over today for that purpose; but neither would this House contain the congregation. Those who could not get in made some noise at first; but in a little while all were silent. Here, likewise, I trust God has given a blow to that bigotry which had prevailed for many years.

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I took a little journey into Kent. In the evening I

preached at Chatham, in the new House, which was sufficiently crowded with attentive hearers. Tuesday, 4. I preached at Canterbury. Wednesday,

5. We went to Dover, where, with some difficulty, we climbed to the top of Shakspeare’s Cliff. It is exceeding high, and commands a vast prospect both by sea and land; but it is nothing so terrible in itself as it is in his description. I preached to a very serious congregation in the evening as well as in the morning. The same, likewise, we observed at Canterbury; so that I hope to see good days here also. Friday, 7. I preached in Feversham at nine, and in the evening at Chatham. So we go through water and fire! And all is well, so we are doing or suffering the will of our Lord!

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About noon I preached at Dorking. The hearers were many, and seemed all attention. About an hundred attended at Ryegate in the evening, and between twenty and thirty in the morning: Dull indeed as stones. But cannot God “out of these stones raise up children unto Abraham?”

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This was a day full of work; but, blessed be God, not tiresome work. I began in the Foundry at four: The Service at West-Street began at nine. In the afternoon I met the children at three, preached at five, and then had a comfortable season with the society.

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We concluded the year, at the chapel, with the voice of praise and thanksgiving. How many blessings has God poured upon us this year! May the next be as this, and much more abundant!

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