1781

We began, as usual, the service at four, praising Him who, maugre all our enemies, had brought us safe to the beginning of another year.

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Much of the power of God rested on the congregation, while I was declaring how “the Son of God was manifested, to destroy the works of the devil.”

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I preached at St. John’s, Wapping. Although the church was extremely crowded, yet there was not the least noise or disorder, while I besought them all, by the mercies of God, to present themselves a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God.

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Hearing Mr. Holmes was extremely weak, I went down to

Burling, and found him very near worn-out, just tottering over the grave. However; he would creep with me to the church, which was well filled, though the night was exceeding dark. I preached on, “Repent, and believe the Gospel.” The congregation appeared to be quite stunned. In the morning I returned to London.

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I went to Dorking, and buried the remains of Mrs. Attersal; a lovely woman, snatched away in the bloom of youth. I trust it will be a blessing to many, and to her husband in particular.

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I spent an agreeable hour at a concert of my nephews. But I was a little out of my element among Lords and Ladies. I love plain music and plain company best.

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I went to Norwich. The House was extremely

crowded in the evening, and the whole congregation appeared to be wounded; consequently, many attended in the morning. Tuesday, 13. I was desired to preach that evening, on, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God that worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” Even the Calvinists were satisfied for the present; and readily acknowledged that we did not ascribe our salvation to our own works, but to the grace of God.

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To awaken, if possible, the careless ones at Loddon, at two in the afternoon, I opened and enforced those awful words, “Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.” In the evening, I applied those gracious words, “All things are ready; come unto the marriage.” After spending Thursday and Friday with the affectionate people at Lowestoft, on Saturday I returned to Norwich. Here I found about fifty missing out of the two hundred and sixteen whom I left in the society a year ago. Such fickleness I have not found any where else in the kingdom; no, nor even in Ireland.

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The chapel was full enough, both in the afternoon and the evening. I declared to them the whole counsel of God, and on Monday returned to London.

Wednesday, 21, being the National Fast, I preached in the new chapel in the morning, and at West-Street in the afternoon. At this, as well as the two last Public Fasts, all places of public worship were crowded: All shops were shut up; all was quiet in the streets, and seriousness seemed to spread through the whole city. And one may hope even this outward acknowledgment of God is in a measure acceptable to him.

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My brother, Mr. Richardson, and Mr. Buckingham being ill, I went through the Service at Spitalfields alone. The congregation was much larger than usual; but my strength was as my day, both here, the new chapel, and afterwards at St. Antholin’s church: The Service lasted till near nine; but I was no more tired than at nine in the morning.

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We had our General Quarterly Meeting, and found the money subscribed this year for the payment of the public debt was between fourteen and fifteen hundred pounds.

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At eight in the evening I took coach for Bristol, with Mr. Rankin and two other friends. We drove with two horses as far as Reading. Two more were then added, with a postilion, who knowing little of his business, instead of going forward, turned quite round on a sloping ground, so that we expected the coach to overturn every moment. So it must have done, but that the coachman instantly leaped off, and with some other men holden it up, till we got out at the opposite door. The coach was then soon set right, and we went on without let or hindrance.

After spending two or three days at Bath, on Thursday, 8, I went forward to Bristol. On Monday, 12, and the following days, I visited the society; but was surprised to find no greater increase, considering what Preachers they had had.

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I preached morning and evening at the Room; in the afternoon at Temple church. The congregation here is remarkably well-behaved; indeed so are the parishioners in general. And no wonder, since they have had such a succession of Rectors as few parishes in England have had. The present incumbent truly fears God. So did his predecessor, Mr. Catcott, who was indeed as eminent for piety as most Clergymen in England. He succeeded his father, a man of the same spirit, who I suppose succeeded Mr. Arthur Bedford; a person greatly esteemed, fifty or sixty years ago, for piety as well as learning.

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For several years the severe weather has begun the very day I set out from Bristol. But the mild weather now continued seven or eight days longer. This evening I preached at Stroud; Tuesday, 20, at Stroud, Gloucester, Tewkesbury, and Worcester. Wednesday, 21. At noon I preached in Bewdley; and at Worcester in the evening. Thursday, 22. I preached in Bengeworth church, and had some conversation with that amiable man, Mr. B. I preached in the evening at Pebworth church, on those words in the Lesson, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.”

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I was invited to preach at Quinton, five miles from

Birmingham. I preached there at noon in the open air, to a serious and attentive congregation. Some of them appeared to be very deeply affected. Who knows but it may continue? In the evening I had another comfortable opportunity with our friends at Birmingham.

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I preached at Birmingham, Dudley, and Wednesbury.

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I preached at noon in Mr. Barker’s large parlor, at Congreve, near Penkridge. Many stood in the next room, and many in the garden, near the windows: And I believe all could hear. I brought strange things to the ears of those that had been used to softer doctrines. And I believe not in vain. They seemed to receive the truth in the love thereof In the evening I preached at Newcastle-under-Lyne. Mr. Scott and two or three of his Preachers were present. They have lately begun to preach both here and at Burslem. If they would go and break up fresh ground, we should rejoice; but we cannot commend them for breaking in upon our labors, after we have born the burden and heat of the day.

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I went a little out of my way in order to open the new

preaching-house at Shrewsbury. I did not so much wonder at the largeness, as at the seriousness, of the congregation. So still and deeply attentive a congregation I did not expect to see here. How apt are we to forget that important truth that “all things are possible with God!”

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I returned to Burslem. How is the whole face of this country changed in about twenty years! Since the potteries were introduced, inhabitants have continually flowed in from every side. Hence the wilderness is literally become a fruitful field. Houses, villages, towns have sprung up. And the country is not more improved than the people. The word of God has had free course among them. Sinners are daily awakened and converted to God; and believers grow in the knowledge of Christ. In the evening the House was filled with people, and with the presence of God. This constrained me to extend the service a good deal longer than I am accustomed to do. Likewise at the meeting of the society, many were filled with strong consolation.

After preaching at Congleton, Macclesfield, and Stockport, in my way, on Friday, 30, I opened the new chapel at Manchester; about the size of that in London. The whole congregation behaved with the utmost seriousness. I trust much goodwill be done in this place.

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I began reading Prayers at ten o’clock. Our country friends flocked in from all sides. At the Communion was such a sight as I am persuaded was never seen at Manchester before: Eleven or twelve hundred communicants at once; and all of them fearing God.

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1 took a solemn leave of our affectionate friends here, and went on to Bolton. The society here are true, original Methodists. They are not conformed to the world, either in its maxims, its spirit, or its fashions; but are simple followers of the Lamb: Consequently they increase both in grace and number.

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I went over to Wigan, and preached a funeral sermon for Betty Brown, one of the first members of this society; one of whom, John Layland, gave me the following artless account of her: — “She met with us in a class about twenty years, even to the Sunday before her death, which was on Friday, March 2. Going to market that day in good health, she returned (as she often did) without her husband, ate her supper, and went to bed. About midnight, he came, and found her body; but the spirit was fled! Her love for God, for his cause, and for her brethren and sisters, was truly remarkable. So was her pity for backsliders. At home and abroad she was continually intent on one thing. We cannot forget her tears and prayers, which we doubt not the Lord hath heard.

“A little before her death, sitting with my sisters, she seemed in deep thought, and broke out, ‘I will go to God!’ One of them being surprised, said, ‘Pray, Betty, what do you mean?’ She only replied, ‘I will go to God.’ So that, if I think right, she was the beloved of God, the delight of his children, a dread to wicked men, and a torment to devils.”

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I went to Chester. The House was well filled with deeply attentive hearers. I perceived God had exceedingly blessed the labors of Jonathan Hern and William Boothby. The congregations were much larger than they used to be. The society was increased; and they were not only agreed among themselves, but in peace with all round about them.

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I went to Alpraham, and preached the funeral sermon of good old sister Cawley. She has been indeed a mother in Israel; a pattern of all good works. Saturday, 7. At noon, I preached at Preston-on-the-Hill; and in the evening at Warlington. Sunday, 8. The service was at the usual hours. I came just in time to put a stop to a bad custom; which was creeping in here: A few men, who had fine voices, sang a Psalm which no one knew, in a tune fit for an opera, wherein three, four, or five persons, sung different words at the same time! What an insult upon common sense! What a burlesque upon public worship! No custom can excuse such a mixture of profaneness and absurdity.

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Desiring to be in Ireland as soon as possible, I hastened to Liverpool, and found a ship ready to sail; but the wind was contrary, till on Thursday morning, the Captain came in haste, and told us, the wind was come quite fair. So Mr. Floyd, Snowden, Joseph Bradford, and I, with two of our sisters, went on board. But scarce were we out at sea, when the wind turned quite foul, and rose higher and higher. In an hour I was so affected, as I had not been for forty years before. For two days I could not swallow the quantity of a pea of any thing solid, and very little of any liquid. I was bruised and sore from head to foot, and ill able to turn me on the bed. All Friday, the storm increasing, the sea of consequence was rougher and rougher. Early on Saturday morning, the hatches were closed, which, together with the violent motion, made our horses so turbulent, that I was afraid we must have killed them, lest they should damage the ship. Mrs. S. now crept to me, threw her arms over me, and said, “O Sir, we will die together!” We had by this time three feet water in the hold, though it was an exceeding light vessel. Meantime we were furiously driving on a lee-shore; and when the Captain cried, “Helm a lee,” she would not obey the helm. I called our brethren to prayers; and we found free access to the throne of grace. Soon after we got, I know not how, into Holyhead harbor, after being sufficiently buffeted by the winds and waves, for two days and two nights.

The more I considered, the more I was convinced, it was not the will of God I should go to Ireland at this time. So we went into the stage-coach without delay, and the next evening came to Chester.

I now considered in what place I could spend a few days to the greatest advantage. I soon thought of the Isle of Man, and those parts of Wales which I could not well see in my ordinary course. I judged it would be best to begin with the latter. So, after a day or two’s rest, on Wednesday, 18, I set out for Brecon, purposing to take Whitchurch (where I had not been for many years) and Shrewsbury in my way. At noon I preached in Whitchurch, to a numerous and very serious audience; in the evening at Shrewsbury; where, seeing the earnestness of the people, I agreed to stay another day.

Here I read over Sir Richard Hill’s Letter to Mr. Madan, on his Defense of Polygamy. I think it is home to the point; and wish always to write (if I must write controversy) in just such a spirit.

Not knowing the best way from hence to Brecon, I thought well to go round by Worcester. I took Broseley in my way, and thereby had a view of the iron bridge over the Severn: I suppose the first and the only one in Europe. It will not soon be imitated.

In the evening I preached at Broseley; and on Saturday, 21, went on to Worcester. I found one of our Preachers, Joseph Cole, there; but unable to preach through his ague. So that I could not have come more opportunely.

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I preached at seven in our own Room. At three the Service began at St. Andrew’s. As no notice had been given of my preaching there, only as we walked along the street, it was supposed the congregation would be small; but it was far otherwise. High and low, rich and poor, flocked together from all parts of the city; and truly God spoke in his word; so that I believe most of them were almost persuaded to be Christians. Were it only for this hour alone, the pains of coming to Worcester would have been well bestowed.

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Being informed it was fifty miles to Brecknock, we set out early: But, on trial, we found they were computed miles. However, taking fresh horses at the Hay, I just reached it in time, finding a large company waiting. Wednesday, 25. I set out for Carmarthen. But Joseph Bradford was so ill, that, after going six miles, I left him at a friend’s house, and went only myself. I came in good time to Carmarthen, and enforced those solemn words on a serious congregation, “Now he commandeth all men everywhere to repent.”

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I went on to Pembroke, and in the evening preached in the Town-Hall. Friday, 27. I preached at Jefferson, seven miles from Pembroke, to a large congregation of honest colliers. In the evening I preached in Pembroke Town-Hall again, to an elegant congregation; and afterwards met the society, reduced to a fourth part of its ancient number. But as they are now all in peace and love with each other, I trust they will increase again. Saturday, 28. We had, in the evening, the most solemn opportunity which I have had since we came into Wales: And the society seemed all alive, and resolved to be altogether Christians.

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At seven I preached in the Room, on, “Lazarus, come forth;” and about ten, began at St. Daniel’s. The church was filled as usual; and the Second Lesson gave me a suitable text, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” I applied the words as closely as possible; and I doubt not, some were more than almost persuaded. In the evening I preached at Haverfordwest, to the liveliest congregation I have seen in Wales.

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I met about fifty children; such a company as I have not seen for many years. Miss Warren loves them, and they love her. She has taken true pains with them, and her labor has not been in vain. Several of them are much awakened; and the behavior of all is so composed, that they are a pattern to the whole congregation.

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I rode to St. David’s, seventeen measured miles from

Haverford. I was surprised to find all the land, for the last nine or ten miles, so fruitful and well cultivated. What a difference is there between the westernmost parts of England, and the westernmost parts of Wales! The former (the west of Cornwall) so barren and wild; the latter, so fruitful and well improved. But the town itself is a melancholy spectacle. I saw but one tolerable good house in it. The rest were miserable huts indeed. I do not remember so mean a town even in Ireland. The cathedral has been a large and stately fabric, far superior to any other in Wales. But a great part of it is fallen down already; and the rest is hastening into ruin: One blessed fruit (among many) of Bishops residing at a distance from their See. Here are the tombs and effigies of many ancient worthies: Owen Tudor in particular. But the zealous Cromwellians broke off their noses, hands, and feet; and defaced them as mach as possible. But what had the Tudors done to them? Why, they were progenitors of Kings.

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About ten I preached at Spittal, a large village about six miles from Haverford. Thence we went to Tracoon, and spent a few hours in that lovely retirement, buried from all the world, in the depth of woods and mountains. Friday, 4. About eleven I preached in Newport church, and again at four in the evening. Saturday, 5. I returned to Haverford.

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I preached in St. Thomas’s church, on, “We preach Christ crucified.” It was a stumbling-block to some of the hearers. So the Scripture is fulfilled. But I had amends when I met the society in the evening.

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About ten I preached near the market-place in Nerbeth, a large town ten miles east from Haverford. Abundance of people flocked together. And they were all still as night. In the evening I preached to an equally attentive congregation at Carmarthen.

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I had a large congregation at Llanelly and at Swansea. Some months since, there were abundance of hearers at Neath: But, on a sudden, one lying tongue set the society on fire, till almost half of them were scattered away. But as all, offended, or not offended, were at the Town-Hall, I took the opportunity of strongly enforcing the Apostle’s words, “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil-speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.” I believe God sealed his word on many hearts; and we shall have better days at Neath. About three I preached in the church near Bridge-End, and at six in the Town-Hall at Cowbridge. Thursday, 10. I preached in our Room about ten, on, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.” May God deliver us from this evil disease, which eats out all the heart of religion! In the evening I preached in the Town-Hall, at Cardiff: But the congregation was almost wholly new. The far greater part of the old society, Ann Jenkins, Thomas Glascot, Arthur Price, Jane Haswell, Nancy Newell, and a long train, are gone hence, and are no more seen. And how few are followers of them, as they were of Christ!

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Before I reached Monmouth, one met and informed me, that Mr. C., a Justice of the Peace, one of the greatest men in the town, desired I would take a bed at his house. Of consequence, all the rabble of the town were as quiet as lambs; and we had a comfortable opportunity both night and morning. Surely this is the Lord’s doing!

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We went through miserable roads to Worcester. Wednesday,

16. About ten I preached in the large meeting at Kidderminster, to a numerous congregation. With much difficulty we reached Salop in the evening, and found the people waiting. There has been no tumult since the new House was built. So far God has helped us.

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I preached at Whitchurch and Nantwich; Friday, 18, at eleven, in the chapel near Northwich; and in the evening at Manchester.

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I found much enlargement in applying to a numerous

congregation the lovely account given by St. James of “pure religion and undefiled.” In the afternoon, I preached a funeral sermon for Mary Charlton, an Israelite indeed. From the hour that she first knew the pardoning love of God, she never lost sight of it for a moment. Eleven years ago, she believed that God had cleansed her from all sin; and she showed that she had not believed in vain, by her holy and unblamable conversation.

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I went over to Warrington, and preached in the evening.

Fearing many of the congregation rested in a false peace, I endeavored to undeceive them, by closely applying those words, “Ye shall know them by their fruits.” Tuesday, 22. About eleven, I preached at Chowbent, and in the evening at Bolton; where the people seemed to be on the wing, just ready to take their flight to heaven.

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Having appointed to preach at Blackburn, I was desired to take Kabb in my way. But such a road sure no carriage ever went before. I was glad to quit it, and use my own feet. About twelve I found a large number of plain, artless people, just fit for the Gospel. So I applied our Lord’s words, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.” In the evening I preached in the new House at Blackburn.

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I went on to Preston, where the old prejudice seems to be quite forgotten. The little society has fitted up a large and convenient House, where I preached to a candid audience. Every one seemed to be considerably affected: I hope in some the impression will continue.

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We went on to Ambleside; and on, Saturday, to Whitehaven.

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I preached, morning and evening, in the House; in the afternoon, in the market-place. But abundance of people went away, not being able to bear the intense heat of the sun.

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I embarked on board the packet-boat for the Isle of Man. We had a dead calm for many hours: However, we landed at Douglas on Friday morning. Both the Preachers met me here, and gave me a comfortable account of the still increasing work of God. Before dinner, we took a walk in a garden near the town, wherein any of the inhabitants of it may walk. It is wonderfully pleasant; yet not so pleasant as the gardens of the Nunnery, (so it is still called,) which are not far from it. These are delightfully laid out, and yield to few places of the size in England.

At six I preached in the market-place, to a large congregation; all of whom, except a few children, and two or three giddy young women, were seriously attentive.

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I rode to Castleton, through a pleasant and (now)

well-cultivated country. At six I preached in the market-place, to most of the inhabitants of the town, on, “One thing is needful.” I believe the word carried conviction into the hearts of nearly all that heard it. Afterwards I walked to the house of one of our English friends, about two miles from the town. All the day I observed, wherever I was, one circumstance that surprised me: — In England we generally hear the birds singing morning and evening; but here thrushes, and various other kinds of birds, were singing all day long. They did not intermit, even during the noon-day heat, where they had a few trees to shade them.

June 3. — (Being Whit-Sunday.) I preached in the market-place again about nine, to a still larger congregation than before, on, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.” How few of the genteel hearers could say so! About four in the afternoon, I preached at Barewle, on the mountains, to a larger congregation than that in the morning. The rain began soon after I began preaching; but ceased in a few minutes. I preached on, “They were all filled with the Holy Ghost;” and showed in what sense this belongs to us and to our children.

Between six and seven I preached on the sea-shore at Peel, to the largest congregation I have seen in the island: Even the society nearly filled the House. I soon found what spirit they were of. Hardly in England (unless perhaps at Bolton) have I found so plain, so earnest, so simple a people.

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We had such a congregation at five, as might have been

expected on a Sunday evening. We then rode through and over the mountains to Beergarrow; where I enforced, on an artless, loving congregation, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.” A few miles from thence, we came to Bishop’s Court, where good Bishop Wilson resided near threescore years. There is something venerable, though not magnificent, in the ancient palace; and it is undoubtedly situated in one of the pleasantest spots of the whole island.

At six in the evening I preached at Balleugh; but the preaching-house would not contain one half of the congregation; of which the Vicar, Mr. Gilling, with his wife, sister, and daughter, were a part. He invited me to take a breakfast with him in the morning, Tuesday, 5; which I willingly did. He read family-prayers before breakfast, in a very serious manner. After spending a little time very agreeably, I went on to Kirk-Andrews. Here also I was obliged to preach in the open air; the rain being suspended till I had done. In the afternoon we rode through a pleasant and fruitful country, to Ramsay, about as large as Peel, and more regularly built. The rain was again suspended while I preached to well-nigh all the town; but I saw no inattentive hearers.

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We had many of them again at five, and they were all attention. This was the place where the Preachers had little hope of doing good. I trust they will be happily disappointed.

This morning we rode through the most woody, and far the pleasantest, part of the island; — a range of fruitful land, lying at the foot of the mountains, from Ramsay, through Sulby, to Kirkmichael. Here we stopped to look at the plain tomb-stones of those two good men, Bishop Wilson and Bishop Hildesley; whose remains are deposited, side by side, at the east end of the church. We had scarce reached Peel before the rain increased; but here the preaching-house contained all that could come. Afterwards, Mr. Crook desired me to meet the singers. I was agreeably surprised. I have not heard better singing either at Bristol or Lincoln. Many, both men and women, have admirable voices; and they sing with good judgment. Who would have expected this in the Isle of Man?

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I met our little body of Preachers. They were two-and-twenty in all. I never saw in England so many stout, well-looking Preachers together. If their spirit be answerable to their look, I know not what can stand before them. In the afternoon I rode over to Dawby, and preached to a very large and very serious congregation.

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Having now visited the island round, east, south, north, and west, I was thoroughly convinced that we have no such Circuit as this, either in England, Scotland, or Ireland. It is shut up from the world; and, having little trade, is visited by scarce any strangers. Here are no Papists, no Dissenters of any kind, no Calvinists, no disputers. Here is no opposition, either from, the Governor, (a mild humane man,) from the Bishop, (a good man,) or from the bulk of the Clergy. One or two of them did oppose for a time; but they seem now to understand better. So that we have now rather too little, than too much, reproach; the scandal of the cross being, for the present, ceased. The natives are a plain, artless, simple people; unpolished, that is, unpolluted; few of them are rich or genteel; the far greater part, moderately poor; and most of the strangers that settle among them are men that have seen affliction. The local Preachers are men of faith and love, knit together in one mind and one judgment. They speak either Manx or English, and follow a regular plan, which the Assistant gives them monthly.

The isle is supposed to have thirty thousand inhabitants. Allowing half of them to be adults, and our societies to contain one or two and twenty hundred members, what a fair proportion is this! What has been seen like this, in any part either of Great Britain or Ireland?

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We would willingly have set sail; but the strong northeast wind prevented us. Monday, 11. It being moderate, we put to sea: But it soon died away into a calm; so I had time to read over and consider Dr. Johnson’s “Tour through Scotland.” I had heard that he was severe upon the whole nation; but I could find nothing of it. He simply mentions (but without any bitterness) what he approved or disapproved; and many of the reflections are extremely judicious; some of them very affecting.

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The calm continuing, I read over Mr. Pennant’s “Tour

through Scotland.” How amazingly different from Dr. Johnson’s! He is doubtless a man both of sense and learning. Why has he then bad English in almost every page? No man should be above writing correctly. Having several passengers on board, I offered to give them a sermon; which they willingly accepted. And all behaved with the utmost decency, while I showed, “His commandments are not grievous.” Soon after, a little breeze sprung up, which, early in the morning, brought us to Whitehaven.

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I had a design to preach at noon in the Town-Hall at

Cockermouth; but Mr. Lothian offering me his meeting-house, which was far more convenient, I willingly accepted his offer. By this means I had a much more numerous audience; most of whom behaved well. At seven I preached at Mr. Whyte’s, in Ballantyne; a little village four miles from Cockermouth. Many assembled here who had hardly seen or heard a Methodist before. I believe some of them did not hear in vain. After this, I saw Mr. Whyte no more. God soon called him into a better world. Friday, 15. In the evening I preached in the Town-Hall, at Carlisle; and on Saturday, 16, reached Newcastle.

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In the morning I preached at the Ballast-Hills; in the

afternoon, at Gateshead; and at five, at the Garth-Heads. Today I heard a remark at All-Saints’ church, which I never read or heard before, in confirmation of that assertion of Abraham, “If they hear not Moses and the Prophets:” — “The thing has been tried. One did rise from the dead, in the sight of a multitude of people. The namesake of this Lazarus rose from the dead. The very Pharisees could not deny it. Yet who of them that believed not Moses and the Prophets was thereby persuaded to repent?”

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I went over to Sunderland; and preached evening and morning to a lovely congregation. Thursday, 21. I read Prayers and preached in Monkwearmouth church; and Friday, 22, returned to Newcastle.

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I went over to Hexham, and preached in the market-place to a numerous congregation, on, “I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God.” None were rude or uncivil in any respect; and very few were inattentive. Sunday, 24. I preached in the morning, at Gateshead-Fell; about noon, at a village called Greenside, ten miles west of Newcastle, to the largest congregation I have seen in the north; many of whom were Roman Catholics. In the evening I preached once more at the Garth-Heads, (some thought to the largest congregation that had ever been there,) on those words in the Service, “Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God.”

After preaching at many places in the way, on Wednesday, 27, I preached at York. Many of our friends met me here, to that in the evening the House would ill contain the congregation. And I know not when I have found such a spirit among them; they seemed to be all hungering and thirsting after righteousness.

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I preached at eleven in the main street at Selby, to a large and quiet congregation; and in the evening at Thorne. This day I entered my seventy-ninth year; and, by the grace of God, I feel no more of the infirmities of old age, than I did at twenty-nine. Friday, 29. I preached at Crowle and at Epworth. I have now preached thrice a day for seven days following; but it is just the same as if it had been but once.

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I went over to Owstone, and found the whole town was

moved. One of the chief men of the town had been just buried, and his wife a few days before. In a course of nature they might have lived many years, being only middle-aged. He had known the love of God, but had choked the good seed by hastening to be rich. But Providence disappointed all his schemes; and it was thought he died of a broken heart. I took that opportunity of enforcing, “Whatsoever the hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.”

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I preached, as usual, at Misterton, at Overthorpe, and at Epworth. Monday, 2. I preached at Scotter about eight; at Brigg, at noon; and in the evening, in the old church-yard, at Grimsby, to almost all the people of the town, on, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.” The late proof of it is in the glorious death of Robert Wilkinson; and the behavior of his widow,

So firm, yet soft, so strong, yet so resigned,

I believe, will hardly be forgotten by any that were witnesses of it.

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I preached at Claythorp, three miles from Grimsby. Here,

likewise, there has been an outpouring of the Spirit. I was reminded here of what I saw at Cardiff, almost forty years ago. I could not go into any of the little houses, but presently it was filled with people; and I was constrained to pray with them in every house, or they would not be satisfied. Several of these are clearly renewed in love, and give a plain, scriptural account of their experience; and there is scarce a house in the village, wherein there is not one or more earnestly athirst for salvation.

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I called upon an honest man, and, I hope, took him out of the hands of an egregious quack; who was pouring in medicines upon him, for what he called “wind in the nerves!” In the evening I preached at Louth, now as quiet as Grimsby. When shall we learn “to despair of none?”

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I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Brackenbury again, though still exceeding weak. His chapel was thoroughly filled in the evening; I trust, with sincere hearers.

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I crossed over to Langham-Row; where the high wind would not suffer me to preach abroad. But the House tolerably contained the congregation; most of whom attended again at five in the morning. Today I finished the second volume of Dr. Robertson’s “History of America.” His language is always clear and strong, and frequently elegant; and I suppose his history is preferable to any history of America which has appeared in the English tongue. But I cannot admire, First, His intolerable prolixity in this history, as well as his “History of Charles the Fifth.” He promises eight books of the History of America, and fills four of them with critical dissertations. True, the dissertations are sensible, but they have lost their way; they are not history: And they are swelled beyond proportion; doubtless, for the benefit of the author and the bookseller, rather than the reader. I cannot admire, Secondly, A Christian Divine writing a history, with so very little of Christianity in it. Nay, he seems studiously to avoid saying any thing which might imply that he believes the Bible. I can still less admire, Thirdly, His speaking so honorably of a professed Infidel; yea, and referring to his masterpiece of Infidelity, “Sketches of the History of Man;” as artful, as unfair, as disingenuous a book, as even Toland’s “Nazarenus.” Least of all can I admire, Fourthly, His copying after Dr. Hawkesworth, (who once professed better things,) in totally excluding the Creator from governing the world. Was it not enough, never to mention the Providence of God, where there was the fairest occasion, without saying expressly, “The fortune of Certiz,” or “chance,” did thus or thus? So far as fortune or chance governs the world, God has no place in it.

The poor American, though not pretending to be a Christian knew better than this. When the Indian was asked, “Why do you think the beloved ones take care of you?” he answered, “When I was in the battle, the bullet went on this side, and on that side; and this man died, and that man died; and I am alive! So I know, the beloved ones take care of me.” It is true, the doctrine of a particular Providence (and any but a particular Providence is no Providence at all) is absolutely out of fashion in England: And a prudent author might write this to gain the favor of his gentle readers. Yet I will not say, this is real prudence; because he may lose hereby more than he gains; as the majority, even of Britons, to this day, retain some sort of respect for the Bible.

If it was worth while to mention a little thing, after things of so much greater importance, I would add, I was surprised that so sensible a writer, in enumerating so many reasons, why it is so much colder in the southern hemisphere than it is in the northern; why it is colder, for instance, at forty degrees south, than at fifty north latitude; should forget the main, the primary reason, namely, the greater distance of the sun! For is it not well known, that the sun (to speak with the vulgar) is longer on the north side the line than the south? that he is longer in the six northern signs than the southern, so that there is a difference (says Gravesande) of nine days? Now, if the northern hemisphere be obverted to the sun longer than the southern, does not this necessarily imply that the northern hemisphere will be warmer than the southern? And is not this the primary reason of its being so?

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I designed to go from hence to Boston; but a message from Mr. Pugh, desiring me to preach in his church on Sunday, made me alter my design. So, procuring a guide, I set out for Rauceby. We rode through Tattershall, where there are large remains of a stately castle; and there was in the chancel of the old church, the finest painted glass (so it was esteemed) in England; but the prudent owner, considering it brought him in nothing by staying there, lately sold it for a round sum of money. Here I met with such a ferry as I never saw before. The boat was managed by an honest countryman who knew just nothing of the matter, and a young woman equally skillful. However, though the river was fifty yards broad, we got over it in an hour and a half. We then went on through the fens in a marvellous road, sometimes tracked, and sometimes not, till about six we came to Rauceby, and found the people gathered from all parts. I preached on those words in the Second Lesson, “There is neither Greek nor Jew, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: But Christ is all and in all.”

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The congregation was still larger. Hence I rode over to Welby, and preached in Mr. Dodwell’s church in the afternoon and in the evening, to a numerous and serious congregation. Monday, 9. I preached at Grantham in the open air; (for no house would contain the congregation,) and none made the least disturbance, any more than at Newark, (where I preached in the evening,) or in the Castle-yard at Lincoln, on Tuesday, 10.

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I preached at Newton-upon-Trent, and Gainsborough.

After visiting many other societies, I crossed over into the West-Riding of Yorkshire. Monday, 23. I preached at Yeadon, to a large congregation. I had heard, the people there were remarkably dead: If so, they were now remarkably quickened; for I know not when I have seen a whole congregation so moved. Tuesday, 24. We had fifty or sixty children at five; and as many or more in the evening; and more affectionate ones I never saw. For the present at least God has touched their hearts. On Wednesday and Thursday I preached at Bradford and Halifax; on Friday, at Greetland chapel, and Haddersfield. After preaching I retired to Longwood-House, one of the pleasantest spots in the county. Saturday, 28. I preached at Longwood-House, at Mirfield, and at Daw-Green. Sunday, 29. I preached at eight before the House. I expected to preach at one, as usual, under the hill at Birstal; but after the Church Service was ended, the Clerk exclaimed with a loud voice, “The Rev. Mr. Wesley is to preach here in the afternoon.” So I desired Mr. Pawson to preach at one. The church began at half-hour past two; and I spoke exceeding plain to such a congregation as I never met there before. In the evening I preached at Bradford to thousands upon thousands, on, “The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

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I crossed over to Tadcaster at noon; and in the evening to York. Hence I took a little circuit through Malton, Scarborough, Beverley, Hull, and Pocklington, and came to York again.

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At the old church in Leeds we had eighteen Clergymen,

and about eleven hundred communicants. I preached there at three: The church was thoroughly filled; and I believe most could hear, while I explained the “new covenant,” which God has now made with the Israel of God.

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I desired Mr. Fletcher, Dr. Coke, and four more of our

brethren, to meet every evening, that we might consult together on any difficulty that occurred. On Tuesday our Conference began, at which were present about seventy Preachers whom I had severally invited to come and assist me with their advice, in carrying on the great work of God.

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I desired Mr. Fletcher to preach. I do not wonder he should be so popular; not only because he preaches with all his might, but because the power of God attends both his preaching and prayer. On Monday and Tuesday we finished the remaining business of the Conference, and ended it with solemn prayer and thanksgiving.

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I went to Sheffield. In the afternoon I took a view of the chapel lately built by the Duke of Norfolk: One may safely say, there is none like it in the three kingdoms; nor, I suppose, in the world. It is a stone building, an octagon, about eighty feet diameter. A cupola, which is at a great height, gives some, but not much, light. A little more is given by four small windows, which are under the galleries. The pulpit is movable: It rolls upon wheels; and is shifted once a quarter, that all the pews may face it in their turns: I presume the first contrivance of the kind in Europe. After preaching in the evening to a crowded audience, and exhorting the society to brotherly love, I took chaise with Dr. Coke; and, travelling day and night, the next evening came to London. We observed Friday, 17, as a fast-day, and concluded it with a solemn watch-night. Having finished my business in town for the present, on Sunday, 19, at eight in the evening, I took coach with my new fellow-traveler, George Whitfield; and on Monday evening preached at Bath. Tuesday, 21. I went on to Bristol; and after resting a day, on Thursday, 23, set out for Cornwall. Finding, after breakfast, that I was within a mile of my old friend, G. Só, I walked over, and spent an hour with him. He is all-original still, like no man in the world, either in sentiments or any thing about him. But perhaps if I had his immense fortune, I might be as great an oddity as he. About six in the evening I preached at Taunton, to a numerous congregation. I found the letters concerning Popery had much abated prejudice here. Friday, 24. I preached at Collumpton about noon, and at Exeter in the evening. Saturday, 25. I preached in the Square at Plymouth-Dock, to a quieter congregation than usual. Sunday, 26. Between one and two, I began in the new House in Plymouth. The large congregation was all attention; and there seemed reason to hope that even here we shall find some fruit of our labor. In the evening I preached again in the Square, on the story of the Pharisee and Publican, to such a congregation, for number and seriousness together, as I never saw there before.

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I was desired to preach at Trenuth at noon, a little way (they said) out of the road. The little way proved six or seven miles, through a road ready to break our wheels in pieces. However, I just reached St. Austle time enough to preach; and God greatly comforted the hearts of his people.

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Between nine and ten we had such a storm of rain, as I do not remember to have seen in Europe before. It seemed ready to beat in the windows of the chaise, and in three minutes drenched our horsemen from head to foot. We reached Truro, however, at the appointed time. I have not for many years seen a congregation so universally affected. One would have imagined, every one that was present had a desire to save his soul. In the evening I preached in the High-street at Helstone. I scarce know a town in the whole county which is so totally changed; not a spark of that bitter enmity to the Methodists, in which the people here for many years gloried above their follows.

Going through Marazion, I was told that a large congregation was waiting: So I stepped out of my chaise, and began immediately; and we had a gracious shower. Some were cut to the heart; but more rejoiced with joy unspeakable.

In the evening I preached in the market-place at Penzance. I designed afterwards to meet the society; but the people were so eager to hear all they could, that they quickly filled the House from end to end. This is another of the towns wherein the whole stream of the people is turned, as it were, from east to west.

We had a happy season, both at St. Just on Thursday evening, and in the market-place at St. Ives on Friday. Saturday, SEPTEMBER 1. I made an end of that curious book, Dr. Parson’s “Remains of Japhet.” The very ingenious author has struck much light into some of the darkest parts of ancient history; and although I cannot entirely subscribe to every proposition which he advances, yet I apprehend he has sufficiently proved the main of his hypothesis; namely, —

1. That, after the flood, Shem and his descendants peopled the greatest parts of Asia.

2. That Ham and his children peopled Africa.

3. That Europe was peopled by the two sons of Japhet, Gomer and Magog; the southern and southwestern by Gomer and his children; and the north and the northwestern by the children of Magog.

4. That the former were called Gomerians, Cimmerians, Cimbrians, and afterwards Celtiae, Galatae, and Gauls; the latter were called by the general name of Scythians, Scuiti, Scots.

5. That the Gomerians spread swiftly through the north of Europe, as far as the Cimbrian Chersonesus, (including Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and divers other countries,) and then into Ireland, where they multiplied very early into a considerable nation.

6. That some ages after, another part of them who had first settled in Spain, sailed to Ireland, under Milea, or Milesius; and, conquering the first inhabitants, took possession of the land.

7. That about the same time the Gomerians came to Ireland, the Magogians, or Scythians, came to Britain; so early that both still spoke the same language, and well understood each other.

8. That the Irish, spoke by the Gomerians, and the Welsh, spoke by the Magogians, are one and the same language, expressed by the same seventeen letters, which were long after brought by a Gomerian Prince into Greece.

9. That all the languages of Europe, Greek and Latin in particular, are derived from this.

10. That the antediluvian language, spoken by all till after the flood, and then continued in the family of Shem, was Hebrew; and from this (the Hebrew) tongue many of the Eastern languages are derived. The foregoing particulars this fine writer has made highly probable. And these may be admitted, though we do not agree to his vehement panegyric on the Irish language; much less, receive all the stories told by the Irish Poets, or Chroniclers, as genuine, authentic history.

At eleven I preached in Camborn Church-town; and I believe the hearts of all the people were bowed down before the Lord. After the Quarterly Meeting in Redruth, I preached in the market-place, on the first principle, “Ye are saved through faith.” It is also the last point; and it connects the first point of religion with the last.

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About five in the evening I preached at Gwennap. I believe two or three and twenty thousand were present; and I believe God enabled me so to speak, that even those who stood farthest off could hear distinctly. I think this is my ne plus ultra. I shall scarce see a larger congregation, till we meet in the air.

After preaching at Bodmin, Launceston, Tiverton, and Halberton, on Wednesday, 5, about noon, I preached at Taunton. I believe it my duty to relate here what some will esteem a most notable instance of enthusiasm. Be it so or not, I aver the plain fact. In an hour after we left Taunton, one of the chaise-horses was on a sudden so lame, that he could hardly set his foot to the ground. It being impossible to procure any human help, I knew of no remedy but prayer. Immediately the lameness was gone, and he went just as he did before. In the evening I preached at South-Brent; and the next day went on to Bristol.

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I went over to Kingswood, and made a particular inquiry into the management of the school. I found some of, the Rules had not been observed at all; particularly that of rising in the morning. Surely Satan has a peculiar spite at this school! What trouble has it cost me for above these thirty years! I can plan; but who will execute? I know not; God help me!

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In the calm, sunshiny evening I preached near King’s Square. I know nothing more solemn than such a congregation, praising God with one heart and one voice. Surely they who talk of the indecency of field-preaching never saw such a sight as this.

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I preached at Paulton and Shepton-Mallet to a lively,

increasing people in each place. Tuesday, 11. I found the same cause of rejoicing at Coleford; and the next evening at Frome. Thursday, 13. I preached at Roade and at Bradford. Friday, 14. After an interval of thirty years, I preached again in Trowbridge. About two I preached near the church in Freshford; and then spent a day or two at Bath. On Monday, 17, I preached at Chew-Magna and Stoke; on Tuesday, at Clutton and Pensford. But Pensford is now a dull, dreary place, the flower of the congregation being gone.

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I went over to Mangots-Field, a place famous for all manner of wickedness, and the only one in the neighborhood of Kingswood which we had totally neglected. But, on a sudden, light is sprung up even in this thick darkness. Many inquire what they must do to be saved. Many of these have broke off outward sin, and are earnestly calling for all inward Savior. I preached in the main street, to almost all the inhabitants of the town, on, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”

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I preached at Thornbury, where I had not been before for near forty years. It seems as if good might at length be done here also; as an entire new generation is now come up, in the room of the dry, stupid stocks that were there before.

On Monday, 24, and the following days, I met the classes at Bristol, and was not a little surprised to find that the society is still decreasing. Certainly we have all need to stir up the gift of God that is in us, and with all possible care to “strengthen the things that remain.”

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I preached at Bath and Bradford; and on Friday, at

Trowbridge. How long did we toil here and take nothing! At length, it seems, the answer of many prayers is come. Friday, 28. About noon I preached at Keynsham; and not without hopes of doing good even here. Since Miss Owen has removed from Publow, Miss Bishop has set up a school here; and it is worthy to be called a Christian school. It is what the school at Publow was!

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I spent an hour with Mr. Henderson at Hannam, and

particularly inquired into his whole method; and I am persuaded there is not such another house for lunatics in the three kingdoms. He has a peculiar art of governing his patients; not by fear, but by love. The consequence is, many of them speedily recover, and love him ever after.

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I was importuned to preach the condemned sermon at Bristol. I did so, though with little hope of doing good; the criminals being eminently impenitent. Yet they were, for the present, melted into tears; and they were not out of God’s reach.

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I took my leave of the congregation in the new Square, in a calm, delightful evening. Monday, 8. I preached at the Devizes about eleven; at Sarum in the evening.

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I preached at Winchester, where I went with great expectation to see that celebrated painting in the cathedral, the raising of Lazarus. But I was disappointed. I observed,

1. There was such a huddle of figures, that, had I not been told, I should not ever have guessed what they meant.

2. The colors in general were far too glaring, such as neither Christ nor his followers ever wore. When will painters have common sense?

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I opened the new preaching-house just finished at Newport in the Isle of Wight. After preaching, I explained the nature of a Methodist society; of which few had before the least conception. Friday, 12. I came to London, and was informed that my wife died on Monday. This evening she was buried, though I was not informed of it till a day or two after.

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I set out for Oxfordshire, and spent five days with much satisfaction among the societies. I found no offenses among them at all, but they appeared to walk in love. On Friday, 19, I returned to London.

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About ten at night we set out for Norwich, and came thither about noon on Monday. Finding the people loving and peaceable, I spent a day or two with much satisfaction; and on Wednesday, went on to Yarmouth. There is a prospect of good here also, the two grand hinderers having taken themselves away. At Lowestoft I found much life and much love. On Friday I preached at London, and on Saturday returned to Norwich.

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I preached at Bear-Street to a large congregation, most of whom had never seen my face before. At half an hour after two, and at five, I preached to our usual congregation; and the next morning commended them to the grace of God.

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I went to Fakenham, and in the evening preached in the

Room, built by Miss Franklin, now Mrs. Parker. I believe most of the town were present. Tuesday, 30. I went to Wells, a considerable sea-port, twelve miles from Fakenham, where also Miss Franklin had opened a door, by preaching abroad, though at the peril of her life. She was followed by a young woman of the town, with whom I talked largely, and found her very sensible, and much devoted to God. From her I learnt that till the Methodists came, they had none but female Teachers in this country; and that there were six of these within ten or twelve miles, all of whom were members of the Church of England. I preached about ten in a small, neat preaching-house; and all but two or three were very attentive. Here are a few who appear to be in great earnest. And if so, they will surely increase. At two in the afternoon I preached at Walsingham, a place famous for many generations. Afterwards I walked over what is left of the famous Abbey, the east end of which is still standing. We then went to the Friary; the cloisters and chapel whereof are almost entire. Had there been a grain of virtue or public spirit in Henry the Eighth, these noble buildings need not have run to ruin.

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I went to Lynn, and preached in the evening to a very genteel congregation. I spoke more strongly than I am accustomed to do, and hope they were not all sermon-proof. Friday, NOVEMBER 2. I returned to London.

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I began visiting the classes, and found a considerable increase in the society. This I impute chiefly to a small company of young persons, who have kept a prayer-meeting at five every morning. In the following week I visited most of the country societies, and found them increasing rather than decreasing. Sunday, 18. I preached at St. John’s, Wapping; and God was present both to wound and heal. Monday, 19. Travelling all night, I breakfasted at Towcester, and preached there in the evening and the following morning. Tuesday, 20. We had a pleasant walk to Whittlebury. This is still the loveliest congregation, as well as the liveliest society, in the Circuit. Thursday, 22. We had a large congregation at Northampton. On Friday I returned to London.

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I took a little tour through Sussex; and Wednesday, 28, I preached at Tunbridge-Wells, in the large Presbyterian meeting-house, to a well-dressed audience, and yet deeply serious. On Thursday I preached at Sevenoaks. Friday, 30. I went on to Shoreham, to see the venerable old man. He is in his eighty-ninth year, and has nearly lost his sight: But he has not lost his understanding, nor even his memory; and is full of faith and love. On Saturday I returned to London.

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I preached at St. Swithin’s church in the

evening. About eight I took coach, and reached St. Neot’s in the morning. I preached in the evening to a larger congregation than I ever saw there before. Tuesday, 4. About nine I preached for the first time at Bugden, and in the evening at Huntingdon. Wednesday, 5. I was at Bedford. On Thursday, 6, our House at Luton was thoroughly filled; and I believe the people felt as well as heard, those words, “Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.” On Saturday I was in London.

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I went to Canterbury, and preached in the evening on,

“Casting all your care upon Him.” It was a word in season. Tuesday, 11. Finding abundance of people troubled, as though England were on the brink of destruction, I applied those comfortable words, “I will not destroy the city for ten’s sake.” Wednesday, 12. I preached at Chatham, and the next day returned to London.

Friday, 21, we observed all over England as a day of fasting and prayer: And surely God will be entreated for a sinful nation! Friday, 28. By reading in Thurloe’s Memoirs the original papers of the treaty at Uxbridge, agnovi fatum Carthaginis! f8 I saw it was then flatly impossible for the King to escape destruction. For the Parliament were resolved to accept no terms, unless he would,

1. Give up all his friends to beggary or death; and,

2. Require all the three kingdoms to swear to the Solemn League and Covenant. He had no other choice. Who then can blame him for breaking off that treaty?

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