1774

Three or four years ago, a stumbling horse

threw me forward on the pommel of the saddle. I felt a good deal of pain; but it soon went off, and I thought of it no more. Some months after I observed, testiculum alterum altero duplo majorem esse. I consulted a Physician: He told me it was a common case, and did not imply any disease at all. In May twelvemonth it was grown near as large as a hen’s egg. Being then at Edinburgh, Dr. Hamilton insisted on my having the advice of Drs. Gregory and Munro. They immediately saw it was a Hydrocele, and advised me, as soon as I came to London, to aim at a radical cure, which they judged might be effected in about sixteen days: When I came to London, I consulted Mr. Wathen. He advised me,

1. Not to think of a radical cure, which could not be hoped for, without my lying in one posture fifteen or sixteen days. And he did not know whether this might not give a wound to my constitution, which I should never recover.

2. To do nothing while I continued easy. And this advice I was determined to take.

Last month the swelling was often painful. So on this day, Mr. Wathen performed the operation, and drew off something more than half a pint of a thin, yellow, transparent water. With this came out (to his no small surprise) a pearl of the size of a small shot; which he supposed might be one cause of the disorder, by occasioning a conflux of humus to the part.

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I was as perfectly easy, as if no operation had been performed.

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I began at the east end of the town to visit the society from house to house. I know no branch of the pastoral office, which is of greater importance than this. But it is so grievous to flesh and blood, that I can prevail on few, even of our Preachers, to undertake it.

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Mr. Pentycross assisted me at the chapel. O what a curse upon the poor sons of men is the confusion of opinions! Worse by many degrees than the curse of Babel, the confusion of tongues. What but this could prevent this amiable young man from joining heart and hand with us?

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I was desired by Mrs. Wright, of New York, to let her take my effigy in wax-work. She has that of Mr. Whitefield and many others; but none of them, I think, comes up to a well-drawn picture.

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I buried the remains of that venerable mother in Israel, Bilhah Aspernell. She found peace with God in 1738; and soon after, purity of heart. From that time she walked in the light of God’s countenance, day and night, without the least intermission. She was always in pain, yet always rejoicing, and going about doing good. Her desire was, that she might not live to be useless: And God granted her desire. On Sunday evening she met her class, as usual. The next day she sent for her old fellow-traveler, Sarah Clay, and said to her, “Sally, I am going.” She asked, “Where are you going?” She cheerfully answered, “To my Jesus, to be sure!” and spoke no more.

Saturday, 29, and several times in the following week, I had much conversation with Ralph Mather, a devoted young man, but almost driven out of his senses by Mystic Divinity. If he escapes out of this specious snare of the devil, he will be an instrument of much good.

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I was desired by that affectionate man, Mr. P—,

to give him a sermon at Chelsea. Every corner of the room was thoroughly crowded; and all but two or three gentlewomen (so called) were deeply serious, while I strongly enforced, “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, that leadeth unto life.”

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In my way to Dorking, I gave another reading to the “Life of Anna Maria Schurman:” Perhaps a woman of the strongest understanding that the world ever saw. And she was likewise deeply devoted to God. So was also Antoinette Bourignon, nearly her equal in sense, though not in learning; and equally devoted to God. In many things there was a surprising resemblance between them, particularly ill severity of temper, leading them to separate from all the world, whom they seemed to give up to the devil without remorse; only with this difference, — Madame Bourignon believed there were absolutely no children of God, but her and her three or four associates: Anna Schurman believed there were almost none, but her and her little community. No wonder that the world returned their love, by persecuting them in every country.

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I preached at L——. But O what a change is there! The society is shrunk to five or six members, and probably will soon shrink into nothing. And the family is not even a shadow of that which was for some years a pattern to all the kingdom!

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In the evening I went to Brentford, and on Monday to

Newbury. Tuesday, 8. Coming to Chippenham, I was informed that the floods had made the road by Marshfield impassable. So I went round by Bath, and came to Bristol just as my brother was giving out the hymn; and in time to beseech a crowded audience, not to receive “the grace of God in vain.”

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I went over to Kingswood, and put an end to some little misunderstandings which had crept into the family. At this I rejoiced; but I was grieved to find that Ralph Mather’s falling into Mysticism and Quakerism had well-nigh put an end to that uncommon awakening which he had before occasioned among the children. But the next day I found, the little maids at Publow, who found peace by his means, had retained all the life which they had received; and had indeed increased therein.

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I began my northern journey, and went by Stroud,

Gloucester, and Tewkesbury, to Worcester. Thursday, 17. I preached in the Town-Hall at Evesham, to a numerous and serious congregation.

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I returned to Worcester. The society here continues walking together in love, and are not moved by all the efforts of those who would fain teach them another Gospel. I was much comforted by their steadfastness and simplicity. Thus let them “silence the ignorance of foolish men!”

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In the evening I preached at Birmingham, and at eight in the morning. At noon I preached on Bramwick-Heath; and, the Room being far too small, stood in Mr. Wiley’s courtyard, notwithstanding the keen northeast wind. At Wednesbury, likewise, I was constrained by the multitude of people to preach abroad in the evening. I strongly enforced upon them the Apostle’s words, “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” If we do not “go on to perfection,” how shall we escape lukewarmness, Antinomianism, hell-fire?

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I preached at nine in Darlaston, and about noon at

Wolverhampton. Here I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Fletcher, and we took sweet counsel together. Tuesday, 22. At five I explained that important truth, that God trieth us every moment, weighs all our thoughts, words, and actions, and is pleased or displeased with us, according to our works. I see more and more clearly, that “there is a great gulf fixed” between us and all those who, by denying this, sap the very foundation both of inward and outward holiness.

At ten I preached at Dudley, and in the afternoon spent some time in viewing Mr. Bolton’s works, wonderfully ingenious, but the greater part of them wonderfully useless. Wednesday, 23. I preached at Ashby-de-la-Zouch; and Thursday, 24, went on to Markfield. The church was quickly filled. I preached on those words in the Second Lesson, “Lazarus, come forth!” In the evening I preached at Leicester. Here, likewise, the people “walk in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost.”

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About noon I preached at Stapleford, six miles west from Nottingham. I stood in a meadow, because no house could contain the congregation. But it was nothing to that at Nottingham-Cross in the evening, the largest I have seen for many years, except at Gwennap.

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About noon I preached at Donnington. It was a showery day, but the showers were suspended during the preaching. In the evening I preached at Derby, and had the satisfaction to observe an unusual seriousness in the congregation. Careless as they used to be, they seemed at length to know the day of their visitation.

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About ten I preached in the market-place at Ashbourne to a large and tolerably serious congregation; and some, I believe, felt the word of God quick and powerful, while I enforced, “ God now commandeth all men everywhere to repent.” After dinner we went on to

Newcastle-under-Lyne, (what is the proper name of the river,) where I was invited by the Mayor, a serious, sensible man, to lodge at his house. I was desired (our Room being but small) to preach in the market-place. Abundance of people were soon gathered together; who surprised me not a little, by mistaking the tune, and striking up the March in Judas Maccabeus. Many of them had admirable voices, and tolerable skill. I know not when I have heard so agreeable a sound: It was indeed the voice of melody. But we had one jarring string: A drunken gentleman was a little noisy, till he was carried away.

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I went on to Congleton, where I received letters, informing me that my presence was necessary at Bristol. So about one I took chaise, and reached Bristol about half an hour after one the next day. Having done my business in about two hours, on Friday in the afternoon I reached Congleton again; (about a hundred and forty miles from Bristol;) no more tired (blessed be God!) than when I left it. What a change is in this town! The bitter enmity of the townsfolk’s to the Methodists is clean forgotten. So has the steady behavior of the little flock turned the hearts of their opposers.

April 3. — (Being Easter-Day.) I went on to Macclesfield, and came just in time (so is the scene changed here also) to walk to the old church, with the Mayor and the two Ministers. The rain drove us into the House in the evening; that is, as many as could squeeze in; and we had a season of strong consolation, both at the preaching, and at the meeting of the society.

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I went on to Manchester, where the work of God appears to be still increasing. Tuesday, 5. About noon I preached at New-Mills, to an earnest, artless, loving people; and in the evening, at poor, dull, dead Stockport, not without hopes that God would raise the dead. As one means of this, I determined to restore the morning preaching, which had been discontinued for many years. So I walked over from Portwood in the morning, and found the house well filled at five o’clock. Wednesday, 6. I preached at Pendleton-pole, two miles from Manchester, in a new chapel designed for a Church Minister, which was filled from end to end.

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I preached about noon at Northwich, now as quiet as

Manchester: And in the evening at that lovely spot, Little Leigh. Friday, 8. I went on to Chester. Saturday, 9. I visited our old friends at Alpraham; many of whom are now well-nigh worn-out, and just ready for the Bridegroom.

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I preached about noon at Warrington, and in the evening at Liverpool. Thursday, 14. I preached in Wigan at noon, where all tumult is now at an end: The lives of the Christians having quite put to silence the ignorance of foolish men. In the evening I preached at Bolton, to the most lively and most steady people in all these parts.

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I preached at a preaching-house just built at Chowbent, which was lately a den of lions; but they are all now quiet as lambs. So they were the next day at the new House near Bury. Saturday, 16. At noon I preached in Rochdale; and in the evening near the church in Huddersfield. The wind was high, and very sharp; but the people little regarded it, while I strongly enforced those words, “What doest thou here, Elijah?”

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I rode to Halifax. Such a country church I never saw before. I suppose, except York Minster, there is none in the county so large. Yet it would not near contain the congregation. I was afraid it would be impossible for all to hear; but God gave me a voice for the occasion: So that I believe all heard and many felt the application of those words, (part; of the First Lesson,) “Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!”

While I was at dinner at Dr. Leigh’s, one came from Huddersfield to tell me the Vicar was willing I should preach in the church. Dr. Leigh lending me his servant and his horse, I set out immediately; and, riding fast, came into the church while the Vicar was reading the Psalms. It was well the people had no notice of my preaching, till I came into the town: They quickly filled the church. I did not spare them, but fully delivered my own soul.

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The Minister of Heptonstall sent me word that I was

welcome to preach in his church. It was with difficulty we got up the steep mountain; and when we were upon it, the wind was ready to bear us away. The church was filled, not with curious but serious hearers. No others would face so furious a storm. At the Ewood, in the evening, we had the usual blessing.

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Mrs. Holmes, who has been some years confined to her bed, sent, and desired I would preach at her house. As I stood in the passage, both she could hear, and all that stood in the adjoining rooms. I preached on Revelation 14:1-5. It was a refreshing season to her and to many. At half-hour after ten, I preached in the new House at Hightown, and in the evening at Daw-Green.

I found Mr. Greenwood (with whom I lodged) dying (as was supposed) of the gout in the stomach. But, on observing the symptoms, I was convinced it was not the gout, but the angina pectoris: (Well described by Dr. Heberden, and still more accurately by Dr. M’Bride of Dublin:) I therefore advised him to take no more medicines, but to be electrified through the breast. He was so. The violent symptoms immediately ceased, and he fell into a sweet sleep.

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I preached at Morley, on, “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” About two I preached at the new-built House at Pudsey, where the Germans (I was informed) are continually declining. Twenty years since one would have thought they would never have been moved; but who can stand any longer than God is on their side? This evening and the next I preached to the lively congregation at Bradford, and was much comforted; so were many; indeed all that earnestly desired to recover the whole image of God.

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I rode and walked to Bradshaw House, standing alone in a dreary waste. But although it was a cold and stormy day, the people flocked from all quarters. So they did at noon the next day, to Clough, (two or three miles from Colne,) where, though it was cold enough, I was obliged to preach abroad. In the evening I preached to our old, upright, loving brethren at Keighley.

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It being a cold and stormy day, Haworth church contained the people tolerably well. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I preached at Bingley and Yeadon; and on Thursday opened the new House at Wakefield. What a change is here, since our friend was afraid to let me preach in his house, lest the mob should pull it down! So I preached in the main street: And then was sown the first seed, which has since born so plenteous a harvest.

Hence I went to Leeds, and on Saturday, 30, to Birstal. Here, on the top of the hill, was the standard first set up four and-thirty years ago. And since that time, what hath God wrought!

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I preached at eight on that delicate device of Satan to destroy the whole religion of the heart, — the telling men not to regard frames or feelings, but to live by naked faith; that is, in plain terms, not to regard either love, joy, peace, or any other fruit of the Spirit: Not to regard whether they feel these, or the reverse; whether their souls be in an heavenly or hellish frame! At one I preached at the foot of the hill to many thousand hearers; and at Leeds to about the same number, whom I besought in strong terms not to receive “the grace of God in vain.” On Monday and Tuesday I preached at Otley and Pateley-Bridge.

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I went on to Ambleside; and on Thursday to Whitehaven.

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I set out for Scotland. At, eight I preached in the Castle-yard at Cockermouth, to abundance of careless people, on, “ Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.” In the evening I preached at Carlisle. On Tuesday I went on to Selkirk, and on Wednesday to Edinburgh; which is distant from Carlisle ninety-five miles, and no more.

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I went in the stage-coach to Glasgow; and on Friday and Saturday, preached on the old Green, to a people, the greatest part of whom hear much, know every thing, and feel nothing.

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My spirit was moved within me at the sermons I heard both morning and afternoon. They contained much truth, but were no more likely to awaken one soul than an Italian Opera. In the evening a multitude of people assembled on the Green, to whom I earnestly applied these words, “Though I have all knowledge, — though I have all faith, — though I give all my goods to feed the poor,” etc., “and have not love, I am nothing.”

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In the afternoon, as also at seven in the morning, I preached in the kirk at Port-Glasgow. My subjects were Death and Judgment, and I spoke as home as I possibly could. The evening congregation at Greenock was exceeding large. I opened and enforced these awful words, “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, that leadeth unto life.” I know not that ever I spoke more strongly. And some fruit of it quickly appeared; for the House, twice as large as that at Glasgow, was thouroughly filled at five in the morning. In the evening, Tuesday, 17, I preached on the Green at Glasgow once more, although the north wind was piercing cold. At five in the morning I commended our friends to God.

How is it that there is no increase in this society? It is exceeding easy to answer. One Preacher stays here two or three months at a time, preaching on Sunday mornings, and three or four evenings in a week. Can a Methodist Preacher preserve either bodily health, or spiritual life, with this exercise? And if he is but half alive, what will the people be? Just so it is at Greenock too.

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I went to Edinburgh, and on Thursday to Perth. Here likewise the morning preaching had been given up: Consequently the people were few, dead, and cold. These things must be remedied, or we must quit the ground.

In the way to Perth, I read that ingenious tract, Dr. Gregory’s “Advice to his Daughters.” Although I cannot agree with him in all things; (particularly as to dancing, decent pride, and both a reserve and a delicacy which I think are quite unnatural;) yet I allow there are many fine strokes therein, and abundance of common sense: And if a young woman followed this plan in little things, in such things as daily occur, and in great things copied after Miranda, she would form an accomplished character.

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I rode over to Mr. Fraser’s, at Monedie, whose mother-in-law was to be buried that day. O what a difference is there between the English and the Scotch method of burial! The English does honor to human nature; and even to the poor remains, that were once a temple of the Holy Ghost! But when I see in Scotland a coffin put into the earth, and covered up without a word spoken, it reminds me of what was spoken concerning Jehoiakim, “He shall be buried with the burial of an ass!”

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I returned to Perth, and preached in the evening to a large congregation. But I could not find the way to their hearts. The generality of the people here are so wise that they need no more knowledge, and so good that they need no more religion! Who can warn them that are brimful of wisdom and goodness, to flee from the wrath to come.

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I endeavored to stir up this drowsy people, by speaking as strongly as I could, at five, on, “Awake, thou that sleepest;” at seven, on, “Where their worm dieth not;” and in the evening, on, “ I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God.” In the afternoon a young gentleman, in the west kirk, preached such a close, practical sermon, on, “Enoch walked with God,” as I have not heard since I came into the kingdom.

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About ten, I preached to a considerable number of plain, serious, country-people, at Rait, a little town in the middle of that lovely valley, called the Carse of Gowry. In riding on to Dundee, I was utterly amazed at reading and considering a tract put into my hands, which gave a fuller account than I had ever seen of the famous Gowry conspiracy in 1600. And I was thoroughly convinced, —

1. From the utter improbability, if one should not rather say, absurdity, of the King’s account, the greater part of which rests entirely on his own single word;

2. From the many contradictions in the depositions which were made to confirm some parts of it; and,

3. From the various collateral circumstances, related by contemporary writers, —

that the whole was a piece of king craft; the clumsy invention of a covetous and blood-thirsty tyrant to destroy two innocent men, that he might kill and also take possession of their large fortunes. In the evening I preached at Dundee, and on Tuesday, 24, went on to Arbroath. In the way I read Lord K——’s plausible “Essays on Morality and Natural Religion.” Did ever man take so much pains to so little purpose, as he does in his Essay on Liberty and Necessity? Cui bono? What good would it do to mankind, if he could convince them that they are a mere piece of clock-work? that they have no more share in directing their own actions, than in directing the sea or the north wind? He owns, that “if men saw themselves in this light, all sense of moral obligation, of right and wrong, of good or ill desert, would immediately cease.” Well, my Lord sees himself in this light; consequently, if his own doctrine is true, he has no “sense of moral obligation, of right and wrong, of good or ill desert.” Is he not then excellently well-qualified for a Judge? Will he condemn a man for not “holding the wind in his fist?”

The high and piercing wind made it impracticable to preach abroad in the evening. But the House contained the people tolerably well, as plain and simple as those at Rait. I set out early in the morning; but, not being able to ford the North-Esk, swollen with the late rains, was obliged to go round some miles. However, I reached Aberdeen in the evening. Here I met with another curious book, “Sketches of the History of Man.” Undoubtedly, the author is a man of strong understanding, lively imagination and considerable learning; and his book contains some useful truths. Yet some things in it gave me pain:

1. His affirming things that are not true; as that all Negro children turn black the ninth or tenth day from their birth. No: most of them turn partly black on the second day, entirely so on the third. That all the Americans are of a copper color. Not so: Some of them are as fair as we are. Many more such assertions I observed, which I impute not to design but credulity.

2. His flatly contradicting himself; many times within a page or two.

3. His asserting, and laboring to prove, that man is a mere piece of clock-work:

And, lastly, his losing no opportunity of vilifying the Bible, to which he appears to bear a most cordial hatred. I marvel if any but his brother Infidels will give two guineas for such a work as this!

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At seven the congregation was large. In the evening the people were ready to tread upon each other. I scarce ever saw people so squeezed together. And they seemed to be all ear, while I exhorted them, with strong and pointed words, not to receive “the grace of God in vain.”

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I set out early from Aberdeen, and preached at Arbroath in the evening. I know no people in England who are more loving, and more simple of heart, than these. Tuesday, 31. I preached at Easthaven, a small town, inhabited by fishermen. I suppose all the inhabitants were present; and all were ready to devour the word. In the evening I preached at Dundee, and had great hope that brotherly love would continue. In my way hither, I read Dr. Reid’s ingenious Essay. With the former part of it I was greatly delighted: But afterwards I was much disappointed. I doubt whether the sentiments are just: But I am sure his language is so obscure that to most readers it must be mere Arabic. But I have a greater objection than this; namely, his exquisite want of judgment in so admiring that prodigy of self-conceit, Rousseau, — a shallow, but supercilious Infidel, two degrees below Voltaire! Is it possible, that a man who admires him can admire the Bible?

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I went on to Edinburgh, and the next day examined the

society one by one. I was agreeably surprised. They have fairly profited since I was here last. Such a number of persons having sound Christian experience I never found in this society before. I preached in the evening to a very elegant congregation, and yet with great enlargement of heart.

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I found uncommon liberty at Edinburgh in applying Ezekiel’s vision of the Dry Bones. As I was walking home, two men followed me, one of whom said, “ Sir, you are my prisoner. I have a warrant from the Sheriff, to carry you to the Tolbooth.” At first I thought he jested; but finding the thing was serious, I desired one or two of our friends to go up with me. When we were safe lodged in a house adjoining to the Tolbooth, I desired the Officer to let me see his warrant. I found the prosecutor was one George Sutherland, once a member of the society. He had deposed, “That Hugh Saunderson, one of John Wesley’s Preachers, had taken from his wife one hundred pounds in money, and upwards of thirty pounds in goods; and had, besides that, terrified her into madness; so that, through the want of her help, and the loss of business, he was damaged five hundred pounds.”

Before the Sheriff, Archibald Cockburn, Esq., he had deposed, “That the said John Wesley and Hugh Saunderson, to evade her pursuit, were preparing to fly the country; and therefore he desired his warrant to search for, seize, and incarcerate them in the Tolbooth, till they should find security for their appearance.” To this request the Sheriff had assented, and given his warrant for that purpose.

But why does he incarcerate John Wesley? Nothing is laid against him, less or more. Hugh Saunderson preaches in connection with him. What then? Was not the Sheriff strangely overseen?

Mr. Sutherland furiously insisted that the Officer should carry us to the Tolbooth without delay. However, he waited till two or three of our friends came, and gave a bond for our appearance on the 24th instant. Mr. S. did appear, the cause was heard, and the prosecutor fined one thousand pounds.

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About eight I preached at Ormiston, twelve miles from

Edinburgh. The House being small, I stood in the street, and proclaimed “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.” The congregation behaved with the utmost decency. So did that on the Castle-Hill in Edinburgh, at noon; though I strongly insisted, that God “now commandeth all men every where to repent.” In the evening the House was throughly filled; and many seemed deeply affected. I do not wonder that Satan, had it been in his power, would have had me otherwise employed this day.

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I took my leave of our affectionate friends, and in the evening preached at Dunbar. Thursday, 9. The wind being high, I preached in the Court-House at Alnwick; but it was intolerably hot. Friday, 10. About eleven I preached in the little Square, adjoining to the preaching-house in Morpeth. In the evening I preached at Newcastle; and in the morning, Saturday, 11, set out for the Dales about noon I preached at Wolsingham, and in the evening near the preaching-house in Weardale.

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The rain drove us into the House, both morning and

afternoon. Afterwards I met the poor remains of the select society; but neither of my two lovely children, neither Peggy Spence nor Sally Blackburn, were there. Indeed a whole row of such I had seen before; but three in four of them were now as careless as ever. In the evening I sent for Peggy Spence and Sally Blackburn. Peggy came, and I found she had well-nigh regained her ground, walking in the light, and having a lively hope of recovering all that she had lost. Sally flatly refused to come, and then ran out of doors. Being found at length, after a flood of tears, she was brought almost by force. But I could not get one look, and hardly a word, from her. She seemed to have no hope left: Yet she is not out of God’s reach.

I now inquired into the causes of that grievous decay in the vast work of God, which was here two years since; and I found several causes had concurred:

1. Not one of the Preachers that succeeded was capable of being a nursing-father to the new-born children:

2. Jane Salkeld, one great instrument of the work, marrying, was debarred from meeting the young ones; and there being none left who so naturally cared for them, they fell heaps upon heaps:

3. Most of the liveliest in the society were the single men and women; and several of these in a little time contracted an inordinate affection for each other; whereby they so grieved the Holy Spirit of God, that he in great measure departed from them:

4. Men arose among ourselves, who undervalued the work of God, and called the great work of sanctification a delusion. By this they grieved some, and angered others; so that both the one and the other were much weakened.

Hence, the love of many waxing cold, the Preachers were discouraged; and jealousies, heart-burnings, evil-surmisings, were multiplied more and more. There is now a little revival: God grant it may increase!

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At eleven I preached in Teesdale, and at Swaledale in the evening. Tuesday, 14. We crossed over the enormous mountain into lovely Wenaudale; the largest by far of all the Dales, as well as the most beautiful. Some years since, many had been awakened here, and joined together by Mr. Ingham and his Preachers. But since the bitter dissension between their Preachers, the poor sheep have all been scattered. A considerable number of these have been gleaned up, and joined together by our Preachers. I came into the midst of them at Redmire. As I rode through the town, the people stood staring on every side, as if we had been a company of monsters. I preached in the street, and they soon ran together, young and old, from every quarter. I reminded the elder, of their having seen me thirty years before, when I preached in Wensley church; and enforced once more, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” When I rode back through the town, it wore a new face. The people were profoundly civil: They were bowing and curtseying on every side. Such a change in two hours I have seldom seen.

Hence we hasted to Richmond, where I preached in a kind of Square. All the Yorkshire Militia were there; and so were their Officers, who kept them in awe, so that they behaved with decency. At six I preached at the end of our House in Barnard-Castle. I was faint and feverish when I began; but the staying an hour in a cold bath (for the wind was very high and sharp) quite refreshed me; so that all my faintness was gone, and I was perfectly well when I concluded.

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I went on by Durham to Sunderland. Saturday, 18. I preached at Biddick. It was fair while I was preaching, but rained very hard both before and after. Sunday, 19. I preached at the east end of the town, I think, to the largest congregation I ever saw at Sunderland. The rain did not begin till I had concluded. At two I preached at the Fell, at five in the Orphan-House.

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About nine I set out for Horsley, with Mr. Hopper and Mr. Smith. I took Mrs. Smith and her two little girls, in the chaise with me. About two miles from the town just on the brow of the hill, on a sudden both the horses set out, without any visible cause, and flew down the hill, like an arrow out of a bow. In a minute John fell off the coach-box. The horses then went on full speed, sometimes to the edge of the ditch on the right, sometimes on the left. A cart came up against them: They avoided it as exactly as if the man had been on the box. A narrow bridge was at the foot of the hill. They went directly over the middle of it. They ran up the next hill with the same speed; many persons meeting us, but getting out of the way. Near the top of the hill was a gate, which led into a farmer’s yard. It stood open. They turned short, and run through it, without touching the gate on one side, or the post on the other. I thought, “However, the gate which is on the other side of the yard, and is shut, will stop them: “ But they rushed through it as if it had been a cobweb, and galloped on through the corn-field. The little girls cried out, “Grandpapa, save us!” I told them, “ Nothing will hurt you: Do not be afraid;” feeling no more fear or care, (blessed be God!) than if I had been sitting in my study. The horses ran on, till they came to the edge of a steep precipice. Just then Mr. Smith, who could not overtake us before, galloped in between. They stopped in a moment. Had they gone on ever so little, he and we must have gone down together!

I am persuaded both evil and good angels had a large share in this transaction: How large we do not know now; but we shall know hereafter. I think some of the most remarkable circumstances were,

1. Both the horses, which were tame and quiet as could be, starting out in a moment just at the top of the hill, and running down full speed.

2. The coachman’s being thrown on his head with such violence, and yet not hurt at all.

3. The chaise running again and again to the edge of each ditch, and yet not into it.

4. The avoiding the cart.

5. The keeping just the middle of the bridge.

6. The turning short through the first gate, in a manner that no coachman in England could have turned them, when in full gallop.

7. The going through the second gate as if it had been but smoke, without slackening their pace at all. This would have been impossible, had not the end of the chariotpole struck exactly on the center of the gate; whence the whole, by the sudden impetuous shock, was broke into small pieces.

8. That the little girl, who used to have fits, on my saying, “Nothing will hurt you,” ceased crying, and was quite composed.

Lastly, That Mr. Smith struck in just then: In a minute more we had been down the precipice; and had not the horses then stopped at once, they must have carried him and us down together. “Let those give thanks whom the Lord hath redeemed, and delivered from the hand of the enemy!”

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I read over Dr. Wilson’s tract on the Circulation of the Blood. What are we sure of but the Bible? I thought nothing had been more sure, than that the heart is the grand moving power, which both begins and continues the circulation. But I think the Doctor has clearly proved, that it does not begin at the heart; and that the heart has quite another office, only receiving the blood, which then moves on through its channels, on the mere principle of suction, assisted by the ethereal fire, which is connected with every particle of it.

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In the morning I preached at the Ballast-Hills, among the glassmen, keelmen, and sailors. As these had nothing to pay, I exhorted them “to buy wine and milk without money and without price.”

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I took my leave of this lovely place and people, and about ten preached to a serious congregation at Durham. About six I preached at Stockton-upon-Tees, on a text suited to the congregation, “Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.”

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This being my birth-day, the first day of my seventy-second year, I was considering, How is this, that I find just the same strength as I did thirty years ago? That my sight is considerably better now, and my nerves firmer, than they were then? That I have none of the infirmities of old age, and have lost several I had in my youth? The grand cause is, the good pleasure of God, who doeth whatsoever pleaseth Him. The chief means are,

1. My constantly rising at four, for about fifty years.

2. My generally preaching at five in the morning; one of the most healthy exercises in the world.

3. My never travelling less, by sea or land, than four thousand five hundred miles in a year.

In the evening, I preached at Yarm; about eleven the next day at Osmotherley; and in the evening at Thirsk. Thursday, 30. I preached at Hutton-Rudby, and found still remaining a few sparks of the uncommon flame which was kindled there ten years ago. It was quenched chiefly by the silly, childish contentions of those who were real partakers of that great blessing.

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I preached in Stokesley at six; and many determined to set out anew. In Guisborough I was constrained to preach abroad; and the whole multitude was as silent as the subject, — Death! I never before had such an opportunity at this place. In the afternoon, through miserable roads, we at length got to Whitby.

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We had a solemn hour at five with the society only; and

another at eight, while I enforced those words on a numerous congregation, “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” While we were at church, a poor man would needs divert himself by swimming; but he sunk, and rose no more. The Minister preached in the afternoon a sermon suited to the occasion, on, “Be ye likewise ready; for ye know not the hour when the Son of Man cometh.” At five I preached in the market-place, on, “Though I speak with the tongues of men and angels,” etc., “and have not charity, I am nothing.” I spoke exceeding plain, and the people were attentive: Yet few of them, I doubt, understood what was spoken. The society, however, are well established, and adorn the doctrine of God our Savior.

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At eleven I preached in the little Square at Robin Hood’s Bay. At six I preached to a numerous congregation, in the new House at Scarborough. It is plain; and yet is one of the neatest and most elegant preaching-houses in England. Now let the people walk worthy of their calling, and there will be a good work in this place.

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I went On to Bridlington-Quay; and in the evening preached in the town, to as stupid and ill-mannered a congregation as I have seen for many years. Thursday, 7. I preached at Beverley and Hull, where the House would not near contain the congregation. How is this town changed since I preached on the Car! Saturday, 9. I preached at Pocklington and York.

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Some of Tadcaster informing me that the Minister was willing I should preach in the church, I went thither in the morning. But his mind was changed: So I preached in the street, to a listening multitude, from the Lesson for the day, on the righteousness which exceeds that of the Scribes and Pharisees; in the morning and evening at York.

Tuesday, 12, was the Quarterly Meeting. It was a busy, and yet a comfortable, day. Many were refreshed, both at the love-feast, and while I was describing the “hundred forty and four thousand,” standing “with the Lamb on mount Zion.” Who is ambitious to be of that number?

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About nine I preached at Wakefield, and in the evening at Doncaster. Here also God has a few names. Friday, 15. About eleven I preached at Thorne, and in the evening, at Rotherham, to a people who both understand and love the Gospel.

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I went to Epworth, and preached in the market-place to a numerous and quiet congregation. Sunday, 17. About eight I preached at Misterton. The sun shining in my face was a little troublesome at first; but was soon covered with clouds. We had an useful sermon at Haxey church. About one I preached at Overthorpe; and between four and five, the rain being stayed, I began in Epworth market-place. Such a congregation never met there before; and they did not meet in vain.

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I reached Brigg before eight; and, by the request of the chief persons in the town, preached at nine in the market-place, to a large and attentive congregation. Hence I went on to Tealby, and preached near the church to a multitude of plain, serious country-people: Very different from the wild, unbroken herd, to whom I preached at Horncastle in the evening.

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I preached at Louth about noon, and at Grimsby in the

evening. At ten, on Wednesday, 20, I preached at Wimberton. None of the hearers was more attentive than an old acquaintance of my father’s, — Mr. George Stovin, formerly a Justice of the peace near Epworth, now as teachable as a little child, and determined to know nothing save Christ crucified. About two I preached in an open place at Scotter, and in the evening at Owston. One of my audience here was Mr. Pinder, a contemporary of mine at Oxford. But any that observed so feeble, decrepit an old man, tottering over the grave, would imagine there was a difference of forty rather than two, years between us!

On Friday and Saturday I made a little excursion into Yorkshire. Sunday,

24. I preached at eight at Gringley-in-the-Hill, to an huge congregation, among whom I could observe but one person that was inattentive. Here I received an invitation from Mr. Harvey, to give him a sermon at Tinningley. I came thither a little before the service began; and the church was filled, but not crowded. Between three and four l returned to Epworth. The congregation there was large last Sunday; but it was nearly doubled now: And never had we, from the beginning, a more solemn and affectionate parting.

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I went on to Sheffield, and on Tuesday met the select society. But it was reduced from sixty to twenty; and but half of these retained all that they once received! What a grievous error, to think those that are saved from sin cannot lose what they have gained! It is a miracle if they do not; seeing all earth and hell are so enraged against; them: While, meantime, so very few, even of the children of God, skillfully endeavor to strengthen their hands.

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About one we reached Leek, in Staffordshire. I could not

imagine who the Quaker should be that had sent me word he expected me to dinner; and was agreeably surprised to find that it was my old friend, Joshua Strongman, of Mount-Mellick, in Ireland, whom I had not seen for many years. I found he was the same man still; of the same open, friendly, amiable temper: And every thing about him was (not costly or fine, but) surprisingly neat and elegant. It began to rain soon after we came in; but the rain stayed while I was preaching; and it seemed the whole town, rich and poor, were gathered together, and listened while I explained, “God is a Spirit, and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” I preached at Burslem in the evening; and on Thursday, 28, in the afternoon, came to Shrewsbury.

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I went on to Madeley; and in the evening preached under a sycamore-tree, in Madeley-Wood, to a large congregation, good part of them colliers, who drank in every word. Surely never were places more alike, than Madeley-Wood, Gateshead-Fell, and Kingswood.

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The church could not contain the congregation, either morning or afternoon; but in the evening I preached to a still larger congregation at Broseley; and equally attentive. I now learned the particulars of a remarkable story, which I had heard imperfectly before: — Some time since, one of the colliers here, coming home at night, dropped into a coal-pit, twenty-four yards deep. He called aloud for help, but none heard all that night, and all the following day. The second night, being weak and faint, he fell asleep, and dreamed that his wife, who had been some time dead, came to him, and greatly comforted him. In the morning, a gentleman going a hunting, an hare started up just before the hounds, ran straight to the mouth of the pit, and was gone; no man could tell how. The hunters searched all round the pit, till they heard a voice from the bottom. They quickly procured proper help, and drew up the man unhurt.

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I preached at Bewdley, in an open place at the head of

the town; and in the evening at Worcester, which still continues one of the liveliest places in England. Here I talked with some who believe God has lately delivered them from the root of sin. Their account was simple, clear, and scriptural; so that I saw no reason to doubt of their testimony.

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I preached at ten in the Town-Hall, at Evesham, and rode on to Broadmarston. Thursday, 4. I crossed over to Tewkesbury, and preached at noon in a meadow near the town, under a tall oak. I went thence to Cheltenham. As it was the high season for drinking the waters, the town was full of Gentry: So I preached near the market-place in the evening, to the largest congregation that was ever seen there. Some of the footmen at first made a little disturbance; but I turned to them, and they stood reproved.

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I walked from Newport to Berkeley-Castle. It is a beautiful, though very ancient, building; and every part of it kept in good repair, except the lumber-room and the chapel; the latter of which, having been of no use for many years, is now dirty enough. I particularly admired the fine situation, and the garden on the top of the house. In one corner of the castle is the room where poor Richard II was murdered. His effigy is still preserved, said to be taken before his death. If he was like this, he had an open, manly countenance, though with a cast of melancholy. In the afternoon we went on to Bristol.

The Conference, begun and ended in love, fully employed me on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; and we observed Friday, 12, as a day of fasting and prayer for the success of the Gospel.

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I set out for Wales, but did not reach Cardiff till near eight o’clock. As the congregation was waiting in the Town-Hall, I went thither without delay; and many, I believe, did not regret the time they had waited there.

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I preached, about noon, in the great hall at Llandaff, on, “It is appointed unto men once to die.” Strange doctrine, and not very welcome to the inhabitants of palaces!

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At eleven I preached in the Town-Hall, at Cowbridge: The

neatest place of the kind I have ever seen. Not only the floor, the walls, the ceiling, are kept exactly clean, but every pane of glass in the windows. Hence I hasted on to Swansea, and at seven preached in the Castle to a large congregation. The next morning I went on to Llanelly; but what a change was there! Sir Thomas Stepney, the father of the poor, was dead: Cut down in the strength of his years! So the family was broke up, and Wilfred Colley, his butler, the father of the society, obliged to remove. Soon after, John Deer, who was next in usefulness to him, was taken into Abraham’s bosom. But just then Col. St. Leger, in the neighborhood, sent to Galway for Lieutenant Cook to come and put his house into repair, and manage his estate. So another is brought, just in time to supply the place of Wilfred Colley. I preached at five near sister Deer’s door, to a good company of plain country-people; and then rode over to the old ruinous house, which Mr. Cook is making all haste to repair. It is not unlike old Mr. Gwynne’s house at Garth, having a few large handsome rooms. It is also situated much like that; only not quite so low: For it has the command of a well-cultivated vale, and of the fruitful side of the opposite mountain.

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We rode on to Larn-Ferry; and seeing a person just riding over the ford, we followed him with ease, the water scarce reaching above our horses’ knees. Between two and three we came to Pembroke.

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At nine I began the service at St. Daniel’s, and concluded a little before twelve. It was a good time. The power of the Lord was unusually present, both to wound and to heal. Many were constrained to cry, while others were filled with speechless awe and silent love. After dinner I went over to Haverfordwest, but could not preach abroad because of the rain. Both here and at Pembroke, I found the people in general to be in a cold, dead, languid state. And no wonder, since there had been for several months a total neglect of discipline. I did all I could to awaken them once more, and left them full of good resolutions. Tuesday, 23 I went to the New Inn, near Llandilo; and on Wednesday, 24, to Brecknock.

In the evening I preached in the Town-Hall to most of the Gentry in the town. They behaved well, though I used great plainness of speech in describing the narrow way.

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At eleven I preached within the walls of the old church at the Hay. Here and everywhere I heard the same account of the proceedings at——. The Jumpers (all who were there informed me) were first in the court, and afterwards in the house. Some of them leaped up many times, men and women, several feet from the ground: They clapped their hands with the utmost violence; they shook their heads; they distorted all their features; they threw their arms and legs to and fro, in all variety of postures; they sung, roared, shouted, screamed with all their might, to the no small terror of those that; were near them. One gentlewoman told me, she had not been herself since, and did not know when she should. Meantime the person of the house was delighted above measure, and said, “Now the power of God is come indeed.”

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Being detained some hours at the Old Passage, I preached to a small congregation; and in the evening returned to Bristol.

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I set out for Cornwall, and preached at Collumpton in the evening. I spoke strong words to the honest, sleepy congregation: Perhaps some may awake out of sleep. Tuesday, 30. I preached to a far more elegant congregation at Launceston; but what is that unless they are alive to God?

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I preached in the market-place at St. Ives to almost the whole town. I could not but admire the number of serious children, as well-behaved as the eldest of the congregation. This was a happy meeting: So was that of the society too, when all their hearts were as melting wax.

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We had the Quarterly Meeting at Redruth. This is frequently a dull, heavy meeting; but it was so lively a one today, that we hardly knew how to part. About six I preached at Treworgey, and applied closely to the Methodists, “What do ye more than others?” One cried out, “Damnable doctrine!” True; it condemns all those who hear and do not obey it.

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The rain drove us into the House at St. Agnes. At one it was fair; so I preached in the street at Redruth. But the glorious congregation was assembled at five, in the amphitheater at Gwennap. They were judged to cover fourscore yards, and yet those farthest off could hear. Today I received the following note: —

“The sermon you preached last Thursday evening was, by the grace of God, of great good to my soul. And when you prayed so earnestly for backsliders, (of whom I am one,) an arrow dipped in blood reached my heart. Ever since I have been resolved, never to rest till I find again the rest that remains for the people of God. “I am, dear Sir,

“A vile backslider from the pure love of Jesus,

and from the society at Gwennap,”

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I preached at Cubert; Tuesday, 6, at Port-Isaac. Wednesday, 7. Having preached at Camelford and Launceston, I did not think of preaching at Tavistock; but finding a congregation waiting, I began without delay. I had scarce half finished my discourse in the Square at Plymouth Dock, when the rain began. At first I did not regard it: But as it grew heavier and heavier, I thought it best to shorten my sermon. It seems, after a long interval of deadness, God is again visiting this poor people. The society is nearly doubled within this year, and is still continually increasing. And many are athirst for full salvation; particularly the young men. Friday, 9. I set out early from the Dock; and the next afternoon reached Bristol.

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We had a solemn watch-night at Kingswood. It seemed, every one felt that God was there; so that hardly any went away till the whole service was concluded.

In the following week I visited many of the country societies. At Frome I learned the remarkable case of sister Whitaker. Last Sunday she met her class as usual; and after saying, “I know that my Redeemer liveth,” dropped down, and in a few minutes, without any struggle or pain, expired.

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I preached at Freshford and Bradford; Wednesday, 28, at Bath, where many of the people seemed much moved; chiefly those who had long imagined they were “built on a rock,” and now found they had been “building upon the sand.”

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I preached at Pill, on the “worm” that “dieth not, and the fire” that “is not quenched:” If haply some of these drowsy ones might awake, and escape from everlasting burnings.

Mon. October 3, and on Tuesday and Wednesday, I examined the society.

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I met those of our society who had votes in the ensuing election, and advised them,

1. To vote, without fee or reward, for the person they judged most worthy:

2. To speak no evil of the person they voted against: And,

3. To take care their spirits were not sharpened against those that voted on the other side.

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The evening being fair and mild, I preached in the new Square. It was a fruitful season:

Soft fell the word as flew the air;

even “as the rain into a fleece of wool.” Many such seasons we have had lately: Almost everyday one and another has found peace, particularly young persons and children. Shall not they be a blessing in the rising generation? In the evening we had a solemn opportunity of renewing our covenant with God; a means of grace which I wonder has been so seldom used either in Romish or Protestant churches!

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I preached at Salisbury; and on Tuesday, 11, set out for the Isle of Purbeck. When we came to Corfe-Castle, the evening being quite calm and mild, I preached in a meadow near the town, to a deeply attentive congregation, gathered from all parts of the island. I afterwards met the society, artless and teachable, and full of good desires. But few of them yet have got any farther, than to “see men as trees walking.”

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I preached to a large congregation at five, who seemed quite athirst for instruction. Afterwards we took a walk over the remains of the Castle, so bravely defended in the last century, against all the power of the Parliament forces, by the widow of the Lord Chief Justice Banks. It is one of the noblest ruins I ever saw: The walls are of an immense thickness, defying even the assaults of time, and were formerly surrounded by a deep ditch. The house, which stands in the middle, on the very top of the rock, has been a magnificent structure. Some time since the proprietor fitted up some rooms on the southwest side of this, and laid out a little garden, commanding a large prospect, pleasant beyond description. For a while he was greatly delighted with it: But the eye was not satisfied with seeing. It grew familiar; it pleased no more; and is now run all to ruin. No wonder: What can delight always, but the knowledge and love of God? About noon I preached at Langton, three or four miles from Corfe-Castle, to a large and deeply serious congregation. Here is likewise a little society; but I did not find any among them who knew in whom they had believed. In the evening I preached in a meadow, near Swanage, to a still larger congregation. And here at length I found three or four persons, and all of one family, who seemed really to enjoy the faith of the Gospel. Few others of the society (between thirty and forty in number) appeared to be convinced of sin. I fear the Preachers have been more studious to please than to awaken, or there would have been a deeper work.

The Isle (or properly Peninsula) of Purbeck is nine or ten miles broad, and perhaps twenty long, running nearly from northeast to southwest. Two mountains run almost the whole length, with valleys both between them and on each side, but poorly cultivated. The people in general are plain, artless, good-natured, and well-behaved. If the laborers here are zealous and active, they will surely have a plentiful harvest.

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I set out early, and reached Gosport, (seventy-two miles,) not long after six. Finding a boat ready, I crossed, and went straight to the Room. It was full enough; so I began without delay, and enforced our Lord’s words, (one of my favorite subjects,) “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Friday, 14. I visited as many as I could, sick or well, and endeavored to settle those that had been shaken by those bigots who are continually waiting to receive the weak “unto doubtful disputations.” I had intended, after preaching in the evening, to meet the society alone; but the eagerness of the people to stay, induced me to suffer a great part of them. Yet it was little to their satisfaction; for when I warned our brethren not to have “itching ears,” they ran away in all haste.

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Setting out (as usual at two, I reached London early in the evening. Monday, 17. I set out for Oxfordshire, and preached at Wallingford in the evening. Tuesday, 18. About nine I preached at Newnham; at noon, in the garden at Oxford; and in the evening, at Finstock, (a village near Carnbury-house, built by the great Earl of Clarendon, but not inhabited by any of his descendants!) to a plain, artless people. Wednesday, 19. I rode to Witney, and found more life than I expected, both in the congregation and the society. Thursday, 20. I preached at Wattleton, at the front of Mr. Stonehill’s house. The whole congregation was seriously attentive. In the evening I preached at High-Wycornb, to many more than the Room would contain; and I believe not in vain.

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I preached in Chesham, and on Saturday returned to London.

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I set out for Northamptonshire, and received a particular account of one that eminently adorned the Gospel: —

“1. SUSANNAH SPENCER was born at Whittlebury, in the year 1742. When she was young she contracted a very general acquaintance, and was exceedingly beloved by them, having an agreeable person, a good understanding, and much sweetness of temper; and, being modest and decent in her whole behavior, she seemed, like others, to think she had religion enough.

“2. In 1760, Thomas Grover came down, and preached several times at Whittlebury and at Towcester. She went to hear him, but with a fixed resolution, ‘ not to be catched,’ as she called it; but her resolution was vain. In a sermon she heard at Towcester, she was cut to the heart. Her convictions grew deeper and deeper from that time, for about a year. She was then hearing him preach, but felt her heart as hard as the nether millstone. Yet at the love-feast which followed, it was suddenly broke in pieces, and she was all melted into tears, by those words applied to her inmost soul, in an inexpressible manner, — My God is reconciled,

His pardoning voice I hear!

He owns me for his child;

I can no longer fear.

“3. The day following, being exercised with strong temptation, she gave up her confidence; but the next night wrestling with God in prayer, she received it again with double evidence: And though afterwards she frequently felt some doubts, yet it never continued long; but she had, in general, a clear, abiding sense of the pardoning love of God.

“4. From that time she walked steadily and closely with God, and was a pattern to all around her. She was particularly exact in reproving sin, and lost no opportunity of doing it. In her whole conversation she was remarkably lively, and yet gentle towards all men. Her natural temper indeed was passionate, but the grace of God left scarce any traces of it. “5. From the very time of her justification, she clearly saw the necessity of being wholly sanctified; and found an unspeakable hunger and thirst after the full image of God; and in the year 1772, God answered her desire. The second change was wrought in as strong and distinct a manner as the first had been. Yet she was apt to fall into unprofitable reasonings; by which her evidence was often so clouded, that she could not affirm she was saved from sin, though neither could she deny it. But her whole life bore witness to the work which God had wrought in her heart. She was as a mother in Israel, helping those that were weak, and tenderly concerned for all; while she sunk deeper into the love of God, and found more and more of the mind that was in Christ.

“6. In the summer, 1773, she took cold by lying in a damp bed. This threw her into a violent fever, which not only brought her very low, but fixed a deep cough upon her lungs, which no medicine could remove. It quite wore her down; especially when there was added the loss of both her sisters and her mother, who were all taken away within a little time of each other. She had likewise a continual cross from her father, and was at the same time tried by the falsehood of those friends in whom she confided, and whom she tenderly loved. The following year, 1774, she had a presage of her death; in consequence of which, she was continually exhorting the young women, Betty Padbury in particular, to fill up her place when God should remove her from them.

“7. In the beginning of winter I f1 understood, that, weak as she was, she had not proper nourishment; being unable to procure it for herself, and having no one to procure it for her; so I took that charge upon myself; I worked with her in the day, (for she would work as long as she could move her fingers,) lay with her every night, and took care that she should want; nothing which was convenient for her. “8. For some time her disorder seemed at a stand, growing neither better nor worse; but in spring, after she had taken a quantity of the bark, she was abundantly worse. Her cough continually increased, and her strength swiftly decayed; so that before Easter, she was obliged to take to her bed: And having now a near prospect of death, she mightily rejoiced in the thought, earnestly longing for the welcome moment; only still with that reserve, ‘Not as I will, but as thou wilt.’ “9. Mr. Harper (the Preacher) took several opportunities of asking her many questions. She answered them all with readiness and plainness, to his entire satisfaction. She told him abundance of temptations which she underwent from time to time; but still witnessed, that the blood of Christ had cleansed her from all sin. She often said to us, The race we all are running now!

And if I first attain,

Ye too your willing heads shall bow;

Ye shall the conquest gain!

“10. Commonly, when I came into her room, I was not able to speak for a time. She would then say, ‘ Why do not you speak? Why do not you encourage me? I shall love you better when we meet in heaven, for the help you give me now.’

“11. In the last week or two, she was not able to speak many words at a time; but as she could, with her feeble, dying voice, she exhorted us to go forward. Yet one day, some of her former companions coming in, her spirit seemed to revive; and she spoke to them, to our great surprise, for near an hour together. They seemed deeply affected; and it was some time before the impression wore off.

“12. Her father now frequently came, sat by her bedside, and expressed tender affection; weeping much, and saying he should now be quite alone, and have no one left to whom he could speak. She spoke to him without reserve. He received every word, and has never forgotten it since.

“13. A few days before she died, after we had been praying with her, we observed she was in tears, and asked her the reason. She said, ‘ I feel my heart knit to you, in a manner I cannot express; and I was thinking, if we love one another now, how will our love be enlarged when we meet in heaven! And the thought was too much for me to bear; it quite overcame me.’

“14. On Friday she seemed to be just upon the wing: We thought she was going almost every moment. So she continued till Tuesday. We were unwilling to part with her, but seeing the pain she was in, could not wish it should continue; and so gave her up to God. I sat up with her that night, and the next day, June 7, she fell asleep.” Monday, 31, and the following days, I visited the societies near London.

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In the afternoon John Downes (who had preached

with us many years) was saying, “I feel such a love to the people at West-Street, that I could be content to die with them. I do not find myself very well; but I must be with them this evening.” He went thither, and began preaching, on, “Come unto me, ye that are weary and heavy-laden.” After speaking ten or twelve minutes, he sunk down, and spake no more, till his spirit returned to God.

I suppose he was by nature full as great a genius as Sir Isaac Newton. I will mention but two or three instances of it: — When he was at school, learning Algebra, he came one day to his master, and said, “Sir, I can prove this proposition a better way than it is proved in the book.” His master thought it could not be; but upon trial, acknowledged it to be so. Some time after, his father sent him to Newcastle with a clock, which was to be mended. He observed the clockmaker’s tools, and the manner how he took it in pieces, and put it together again; and when he came home, first made himself tools, and then made a clock, which went as true as any in the town. I suppose such strength of genius as this, has scarce been known in Europe before.

Another proof of it was this: — Thirty years ago, while I was shaving, he was whittling the top of a stick: I asked, “What are you doing?” He answered, “I am taking your face, which I intend to engrave on a copper-plate.” Accordingly, without any instruction, he first made himself tools, and then engraved the plate. The second picture which he engraved, was that which was prefixed to the “Notes upon the New Testament.” Such another instance, I suppose, not all England, or perhaps Europe, can produce.

For several months past, he had far deeper communion with God, than ever he had had in his life; and for some days he had been frequently saying, “I am so happy, that I scarce know how to live. I enjoy such fellowship with God, as I thought could not be had on this side heaven.” God having now finished his course of fifty-two years, after a long conflict with pain, sickness, and poverty, he gloriously rested from his labors, and entered into the joy of his Lord.

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I baptized two young women; one of whom found a deep

sense of the presence of God in his ordinance; the other received a full assurance of his pardoning love, and was filled with joy unspeakable.

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After a day of much labor, at my usual time, (half-hour past nine,) I lay down to rest. I told my servants, “I must rise at three, the Norwich coach setting out at four.” Hearing one of them knock, though sooner than I expected, I rose and dressed myself; but afterwards, looking at my watch, I found it was but half-hour past ten. While I was considering what to do, I heard a confused sound of many voices below; and looking out at the window towards the yard, I saw it was as light as day. Meantime, many large flakes of fire were continually flying about the house; all the upper part of which was built of wood, which was near as dry as tinder. A large deal-yard, at a very small distance from us, was all in a light fire; from which the northwest wind drove the flames directly upon the Foundery; and there was no probability of help, for no water could be found. Perceiving I could be of no use, I took my Diary and my papers, and retired to a friend’s house. I had no fear; committing the matter into God’s hands, and knowing He would do whatever was best. Immediately the wind turned about from northwest to southeast; and our pump supplied the engines with abundance of water; so that in a little more than two hours, all the danger was over.

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In the evening I preached at Bury; Tuesday, 15, about one at Loddon, to a people the most athirst for God of any I found in the county. In the afternoon I went on to Yarmouth. When was “confusion worse confounded?” Division after division has torn the once-flourishing society all in pieces. In order to heal the breach, in some measure, I enforced those deep words, “Though I have all knowledge and all faith, so as to remove mountains, and have not love, it profiteth me nothing.” One of our former Leaders being asked what he thought of this, frankly answered, “It is damnable doctrine.”

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About noon I preached at Lowestoft, where the little flock are remarkably lively. The evening congregation at Yarmouth was all attention; and truly the power of God was present to heal them. In the evening I returned to Norwich. Never was a poor society so neglected as this has been for the year past. The morning preaching was at an end; the bands suffered all to fall in pieces; and no care at all taken of the classes, so that whether they met or not, it was all one; going to church and sacrament were forgotten; and the people rambled hither and thither as they listed.

On Friday evening I met the society, and told them plain, I was resolved to have a regular society or none. I then read the Rules, and desired every one to consider whether he was willing to walk by these Rules or no. Those in particular, of meeting their class every week, unless hindered by distance or sickness, (the only reasons for not meeting which I could allow) and being constant at church and sacrament. I desired those who were so minded to meet me the next night, and the rest to stay away. The next night we had far the greater part; on whom I strongly enforced the same thing. Sunday, 20. I spoke to every Leader, concerning every one under his care; and put out every person whom they could not recommend to me. After this was done, out of two hundred and four members, one hundred and seventy-four remained. And these points shall be carried, if only fifty remain in the society.

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I examined the society at Loddon. There are near fifty of them, simple and teachable, all of one mind, and many of them able to rejoice in God their Savior. Tuesday, 22. I took a solemn and affectionate leave of the society at Norwich. About twelve we took coach. About eight, Wednesday, 23, Mr. Dancer met me with a chaise, and carried me to Ely. O what want of common sense! Water covered the highroad for a mile and a half. I asked, “How must foot-people come to the town?” “Why, they must wade through!”

About two I preached in a house well filled with plain, loving people. I then took a walk to the cathedral, one of the most beautiful I have seen. The western tower is exceeding grand; and the nave of an amazing height. Hence we went through a fruitful and pleasant country, though surrounded with fens, to Sutton. Here many people had lately been stirred up: They had prepared a large barn. At six o’clock it was well filled; and it seemed as if God sent a message to every soul. The next morning and evening, though the weather was uncommonly severe, the congregation increased rather than diminished.

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I left them in much hope that they will continue in this earnest, simple love.

I set out between eight and nine in a one-horse chaise, the wind being high and cold enough. Much snow lay on the ground, and much fell as we crept along over the fen-banks.

Honest Mr. Tubbs would needs walk and lead the horse through water and mud up to his mid-leg, smiling and saying, “We fen-men do not mind a little dirt.” When we had gone about four miles, the road would not admit of a chaise. So I borrowed a horse and rode forward; but not far, for all the grounds were under water. Here therefore I procured a boat full twice as large as a kneading-trough. I was at one end, and a boy at the other, who paddled me safe to Erith. There Miss L—— waited for me with another chaise, which brought me to St. Ives.

No Methodist, I was told, had preached in this town: So I thought it high time to begin; and about one I preached to a very well-dressed and yet well-behaved congregation. Thence my new friend (how long will she be such?) carried me to Godmanchester, near Huntingdon. A large barn was ready, in which Mr. Berridge and Mr. Venn used to preach. And though the weather was still severe, it was well filled with deeply attentive people. Saturday, 26. I set out early, and in the evening reached London.

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I paid a visit to the amiable family at Shoreham, and found the work of God there still increasing. Wednesday, 30. I crossed over to Ryegate, and had a larger congregation than ever before.

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I preached at Dorking, and was much pleased with the congregation, who seemed to “taste the good word.” Friday, 2. I returned to London.

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I preached at Canterbury; and Tuesday, 6, at Dover. As I was setting out thence on Wednesday morning, a wagon, jostling us, disabled our chaise. Our coachman went back to procure another, saying, he would soon overtake us. He did so after we had walked nine or ten miles, and brought us safe to Canterbury, where I spent a day or two with much satisfaction; and on Saturday, returned home.

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I opened the new House at Sevenoaks. Tuesday, 13. About noon I preached at Newbounds; and in the evening at Sevenoaks again, where our labor has not been in vain.

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I rode to Chatham, and found that James Wood, one of our Local Preachers, who, being in a deep consumption, had been advised to spend some time in France, had come back thither two or three days before me. The day after he came he slept in peace: And two days after, his body was interred, all our brethren singing him to the grave, and praising God on his behalf. I preached his funeral sermon to a crowded audience, on the text which he had chosen: “Let me die the death of the righteous; and let my last end be like his!”

Monday, 19, and the following days, I read with the Preachers what I judged most useful: And we endeavored to “provoke one another to love and to good works.”

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I walked, with one that belongs to the family, through the Queen’s house. The apartments are nothing so rich as those in Blenheim House, but full as elegant. Nor in any thing in Blenheim itself more grand than the staircase and the saloon. But I was quite disappointed in the Cartoons; they are but the shadow of what they were: The colors are so entirely faded, that you can hardly distinguish what they were once.

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I buried the body of Esther Grimaldi, who died in the full triumph of faith. “A mother in Israel” hast thou been; and thy “works shall praise thee in the gates!” During the twelve festival days, we had the Lord’s Supper daily; a little emblem of the Primitive Church. May we be followers of them in all things, as they were of Christ!

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