space at the head of the town. The wind was high and
March, 1780. ] JOURNAL.
reflect, in this room I lodged the first time I saw poor Mr.
Ireland:
Emphatically poor!
Poor beyond expression ;— though he left fourscore thousand pounds behind him!
Thur. 24.—I met the building Committee; according to whose representation, our income at last nearly answcrs our expenses.
If so, it will clear itself in a few years.
Mon. 28.—Taking the post-coach, I reached Newbury time cnough to preach to a crowded audience.
Tuesday, 29, and Wednesday, I preached at Bath, where brotherly love is now restored.
Thursday, Marcu 2. I went into Bristol, and enjoyed much peace among a quiet, loving people.
On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I examined the society, and had reason to rejoice over them.
Mon. 13.—I set out for the north, and in the evening preached at Stroud, where is a considerable increase of the work of God.
Tuesday, 14. I preached in the church at Pitchcomb ; but it would by no means contain the congregation.
In the evening I preached at Tewkesbury, and on Wednesday, 15, at Worcester, to a very serious congregation.
Thursday, 16. About noon I began preaching at Bewdley, in an open space at the head of the town.
The wind was high and exceeding sharp; but no one seemed to regard it.
In the middle of the sermon came a man beating a drum; but a gentleman of the town soon silenced him.
Friday, 17.
About noon I preached at Bengeworth church, to the largest congregation I ever saw there; and in Pebworth church about six, to a larger congregation than I had seen there before.
I found uncommon liberty in applying those words, (perhaps a last warning to the great man of the parish, Mr. Martin,)
"' Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might."
Sat. 18.—I went on to Birmingham; and, Sunday, 19, preached. at eight in the morning, and at half-past one in the afternoon; in the evening, at Wednesbury.
Monday, 20. I reached Congleton, and preached to a lively congregation on our Lord's words: " Lazarus, come forth!"
Tuesday, 21. I preached in the new chapel at Macclesfield; Thausday, 23, at Stockport and Manchester.
On Good-Friday I preached, at seven, in Manchester ; about one, in Oldham; and in Manchester, at six.
Saturday, 25. I went on to Bolton, where the work of God is continually increasing.
On Easter-Day I set out for Warrington.
Mr.