of Jasper Robinson and his fellow-labourers. The congregation
Dec. 1786.] JOURNAL.
Sun. 12.—I preached, morning and afternoon, for the use of our little charity-school, where forty boys and twenty girls are trained up both for this world and the world to come.
Mon. 13.—I retired, for a few days, to Highbury-Place, that I might go on in my work without interruption.
I returned to town. on Thursday, 16; and after preaching on 1 Tim. vi.
20, had a comfortable meeting with the Bands.
Their shyness is vanished away; and we have only one inconvenience, -—we have not time to hear all those that are willing to speak.
Sun.26.—After officiating at West-Street morning and afternoon, I took coach at seven in the evening.
We had a clear, pleasant night, and reached Norwich about eleven on Monday, 27. I found all things in peace, through the zeal and prudence of Jasper Robinson and his fellow-labourers. The congregation in the evening was nearly as large as it usually is on Sunday ; and more than twice as large at six in the morning as it is accustomed tobe.
TJ'uesday, 28. About noon I preached at Cayster, a little town twenty miles east of Norwich, to a little, serious congregation ; the greater part of them seemed to he ripe fora blessing.
The House at Yarmouth was throughly filled in the evening, and many attended in the morning likewise.
Once more the combatants here have laid down their arms, and solemnly promise to continue in peace and love.
Wednesday and Thursday I spent comfortably at HANG. among a quiet, loving people.
Friday, Drcumser 1. 1 took a solemn leave of them at six.
At nine I preached at NorthCove, with much enlargement of spirit; and about eleven at Beccles, to more than their preachinghouse could contain ; and all of them appeared as serious and attentive as the congregation at Yarmouth.
In the evening there seemed to be a peiceeule shaking even among the dry bones at Loddon ; and such a company attended at Mr. Crisp's in the morning, as I never saw there before.
Sat. 2.—I returned to Harwich, and was much pleased in the evening with the largeness and seriousness of the congregation.
Sunday, 3. I administered the Lord's Supper at eight, and afterwards attended our parish church.
Besides the little company that went with me, and the Clerk and Minister, I think we had five men and six women: And this is a Christian country !
Our House could in nowise contain the congregation, either in the afternoon or in the evening ; and at both times, great was
Ree
'REV. J. WESLEY'S
[Dee; 17862 the power of God in the midst of them. I have not seen, for many years, such a prospect of doing good in this city.
Mon. 4.—I was strongly importuned by our friends at LongStratton, to give them a sermon there.
I heard of a young woman in that country who had uncommon fits, and of one that had lately preached; but I did not know that it was one and the same person.
I found her in the very house to which I went, and went and talked with her at large.
I was surprised.
Sarah Mallet, two or three and twenty years old, is of the same size that Jane Cooper was; and is, I think, full as much devoted to God, and of as strong an understanding.
But she is not likely to live; having a species of consumption which I believe is never cured.
Of the following relation, which she gave me, there are numberless witnesses :— Some years since it was strongly impressed upon her, that she ought to call sinners to repentance.
This impression she vehemently resisted, believing herself quite unqualified, both by her sin, and her ignorance, till it was suggested, "If you do it not willingly, you shall do it whether you will or no."
She fell into a fit; and while utterly senseless, thought she was in the preaching-house in Lowestoft, where she prayed and preached for near an hour, to a numerous congregation.
She then opened her eyes, and recovered her senses.
In a year or two she had eighteen of these fits; in every one of which she imagined herself to be preaching in one or another congregation.
She then cried out, "Lord, I will obey thee; I wilt call sinners to repentance."
She has done so occasionally from that time; and her fits returned no more.
I preached at one to as many as the House could contain, of people that seemed ready prepared for the Lord.
In the evening the hearts of the whole congregation at Norwich seemed to be bowed as the heart of one man. I scarce ever saw them so moved.
Surely God will revive his work in this place, and we shall not always find it so cold and comfortless as it has long been. ues. 5.—In the afternoon I took coach again, and returned to London at eight on Wednesday morning.
All the time I could save to the end of the week I spent in transcribing the society'; a dull, but necessary, work, which I have taken upon myself once a year for near these fifty years.
Wed. 13.—I retired to Peckham, where, the next evening, E
Jan. 1787.] JOURNAL.
preached to as many as the House would well contain, and found much liberty of spirit in enforcing upon them, the glorying only in the cross of Christ.
Saturday, 16. I returned to London.
Sun. 17.—We had, as usual, a very solemn and comfortable season at Spitalfields.
Wednesday, 20. I retired to HighburyPlace; but how changed!
Where are the three amiable sisters?
One is returned to her father; one deprived of her reason; and one in Abraham's bosom !
Sat. 23.—By great importunity I was induced (having little hope of doing good) to visit two of the felons in Newgate, who lay under sentence of death.
They appeared serious; but I can lay little stress on appearances of this kind.
However, I wrote in their behalf to a great man; and perhaps it was in consequence of this that they had a reprieve.
Sun. 24.—I was desired to preach at the Old Jewry.
But the church was cold, and so was the congregation.
We hada congregation of another kind the next day, Christmas-Day, at four in the morning, as well as five in the evening at the new chapel, and at West-Street chapel about noon.
Sun. 31.—From those words of Isaiah to Hezekiah, "Set thy house in order," I strongly exhorted all who had not done it already, to settle their temporal affairs without delay.
It is a strange madness which still possesses many, that are in other respects men of understanding, who put this off from day to day, till death comes in an hour when they looked not for it.
Mon. January 1, 1787.—We began the service at four in the morning, to an unusually large congregation.
We had another comfortable opportunity at the new chapel at the usual hour, and a third in the evening at West-Street.
Tuesday, 2.
I went over to Deptford; but it seemed, I was got into a den of lions.
Most of the leading men of the society were mad for separating from the Church.
I endeavoured to reason with them, but in vain; they had neither sense nor even good. manners left.
At length, after meeting the whole society, I told them, "If you are resolved, you may have your service in church-hours; but, remember, from that time you will see ay face no more."
This struck deep ; and from that hour I have heard no more of separating from the Church.
Friday, 5, and in the vacant hours of the following days, IL yead Dr. Hunter's Lectures.
They are very lively and ingenious.
The language is good, and the thoughts generally just.
REV. J. WESLEY'S
[Feb. 1787.
But they do not at all suit my taste.
I do not admire that florid way of writing.
Good sense does not need to be so studiously adorned. I love St. John's style, as well as matter.
Sun. 7.—At the desire of many of our friends, we began. that solemn work of renewing our covenant with God at three in the afternoon, two hours earlier than usual.
Monday, 8, and the four following days, I wert a begging for the poor.
I hoped to be able to provide food and raiment for those of the society who were in pressing want, yet had no weekly allowance: These were about two hundred: But I was much disappointed.
Six or seven, indeed, of our brethren gave ten pounds apiece.
If forty or fifty had done this, I could have carried my design into execution.
However, much good was done with two hundred pounds, and many sorrowful hearts made glad.
Sun. 21.—I preached at St. Swithin's church, to a numerous and serious congregation.
Thursday, 25. I went to Dorking, and found a lively and well-established people.
Saturday, 27.
I began the heavy work of meeting the classes in London.
Fri. Frpavuary 2.—I endeavoured to reconcile two of our brethren that were at variance ; and one of them was very will-. ing; but the other raged like a bear bereaved of her whelps.
Sun. 4.—While I applied the parable of the Sower at the new chapel, God was with us of a truth.
The stout-hearted trembled; as they did, likewise, in the evening, while I applied, " Many are called, but few are chosen."
Wed. 7.—I preached at Brentford; and in the morning ; Thursday evening at Lambeth.
At both places I found many who promise not to be forgetful hearers, but doers of the word.
Being earnestly desired by our brethren at Newark, one hundred and twenty-four miles from London, to come and open their new House, I took the mail-coach, Friday, 9, in the evening, and reached Newark the next day about four in the afternoon.
But having a great cold, and being so hoarse: that I could not preach, I desired Mr. Mather to supply my place, till I had recovered my voice.
Sun. 11.—Having partly recovered.my voice, I preached in the new House at nine,—a lightsome, cheerful building, and gave notice of preaching at five in the afternoon.
But it was not long before I received a message from the Mayor, to desire me to begin preaching a little later, that himself and several of
Feb. 1787. ] JOURNAL.
the Aldermen might the more conveniently attend.
They all came at half an hour -past five, and as many people as could possibly squeeze in; and God opened my mouth to speak strong words, and the hearts of many to receive them.
Surely God will have a people in this place, that will adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour; Mon. 12.—There being no places to be had in the York coach, Mr. Broadbent and I went across the country to Hinckley.
I now inquired concerning the poor wretch who, when I was here last, while he was praying to God to damn his eyes, was in the instant struck blind.
So, it seems, he continued for some time.
But as soon as he recovered his sight, he was just as profane as before.
Although it rained, and the people had no notice till we came, yet the preaching-house was quickly filled; and many, I believe, were filled with peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Tues. 138.—Leaving the society here much alive to God, I went on to Coventry.
Here finding places vacant in the Liverpool mail-coach, we set out in the evening, and reached London the next morning, Wednesday, 14.
Thursday, 15. 1 preached at Deptford, and was agreeably surprised to find the threatening storm blown over, and all our brethren in peace and love with each other. From hence, on Friday, 16, I went to Rotherhithe, which used to be one of the most uncomfortable places in England.
But it was far otherwise now.
Many of the people seemed much alive to God ; and his presence was manifested in the congregation, in a very uncommon manner.
Sat. 17.—I went on in reading that odd book, entitled, "A Chinese Fragment."
As to the Chinese themselves, I believe they are almost as religious, but nothing near so honest, as the Turks; so that I account the contrasting them with the Christians, to be a mere pious fraud.
Du Halde's word I wili not take for a straw; but there are many and just remarks in the treatise, to which few impartial men would have any objection, in whatever form they were proposed.
Sun. 18.—The power of God was, as usual, eminently present during the service at Spitalfields.
In the evening I met the single women of the society, and advised them to make full use of the advantages they enjoy: But I doubt, not many had ears to hear ; Tor when'had youth the leisure to be wise ?
REV. J. WESLEY'S
[March, 1787.
Fri, 23.—I met our family, and was pleased to find that we are a family of love.
There is not at present one jarring string, but we all hold the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Sun. 25.—After taking a solemn leave of our friends, both at West-Strect and the new chapel, I took the mail-coach, and the next evening reached Exeter, a little after ten o'clock.
T'uesday, 27. We went on to Plymouth-Dock.
The large, new House, far the best in the west of England, was well filled, though on so short a warning; and they seemed cordially to receive the exhortation, " Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous."
I had the satisfaction to find the society here in a more flourishing state than ever.
Notwithstanding all the pains that have been taken, and all the art that has been used, to tear them asunder, they cleave close together; and consequently increase in number as well as in strength.
Wed. 28.—We went over to Plymouth, and found the society doubled since I was here before; and they are both more loving than they were then, and more earnest to save their souls.
It rained most of the afternoon.
However, we had a crowded congregation in the evening; and all of them seemed to feel that God was in the midst of them; for his word was sharper than a two-edged sword.
In consequence of this, a large number attended at five on Thursday morning, Marcu 1.
Surely this is a time of love for poor Plymouth also.
O that they may know the day of their visitation !
In the evening I preached again at the Dock; and again the power of God was present to heal.
The people seemed to be all struck, while I opened and strongly applied the parable of the Sower; especially while I was warning them to beware of "the cares of the world, and the desires of other things."
Fri. 2.—I was desired to go over to Torpoint, a village on the Cornish side of the water.
We were attended by a large company from the Dock, and a great multitude from all quarters.
I suppose a great part of these had never heard this sort of preaching before: They now heard with inexpressible attention ; and I believe not in vain.
God opened, as it were, the windows of heaven, and sent a gracious rain upon his inheritance.
I am in hopes, a plentiful harvest will spring from the seed which was sown this hour.
In the afternoon I went over to Plymouth, and drank tea at Mr. Hawker's, the Minister of the new church.
He seems to be
March, 1787.] JOURNAL.
a man of an excellent spirit, and is a pattern to all the Clergy round about.
It rained all the evening; but that did not hinder the House from being throughly filled with people that heard as for life.
This congregation likewise seemed to be, "all but their attention, dead."
The like has hardly been seen here before.
What! is God about to work in Plymouth also ?
Sat. 3.—Many attended at five in the morning, although it rained sharply.
It likewise blew a storm.
So it did all the day, as well as in the evening.
The House was then crowded indeed ; yet there was attention still as night.
But God uttered his voice; yea, and that a mighty voice, insomuch that the stout-hearted trembled ; and it seemed as if he would send none empty away ; but of these, too, though many were called, I fear few were chosen.
Sun. 4.—I began the service at half an hour past nine, and concluded it before one.
I suppose such a number of communicants were never seen before at Plymouth-Dock; but there was no disorder or hurry at all.
There was more difficulty in the evening: The throng was so great that it was impossible for me to get through them to the pulpit; so at length they made shift to lift me over the seats.
Again God spoke in his word, I believe to all that could get in; but some could not, and were constrained to go away.
Mon. 5.—The House was well filled again, both above and below; and after a solemn parting, we took coach at six, leaving such a flame behind us as was never kindled here before.
God grant it may never be put out!
We reached Exeter between two and three.
In the evening I preached on, " By grace are ye saved through faith," to as many as could possibly squeeze into the Room.
It was a glorious opportunity.
God uttered his voice, and that a mighty one.
It seemed to break the rocks in pieces, to make the stout-hearted tremble.
I know not that I ever saw such an impression made on the people of Exeter before.
Wed. 7.—It rained much while we were at Plymouth, and at the Dock, and most of the way from the Dock to Exeter ; but we had lovely weather to-day, and came into Bath early in the evening.
So crowded a House I had not seen here for many years. I fully delivered my own soul, by strongly enforcing those awful words, " Many are called, but few are chosen." I believe the word sunk deep into many hearts. The
REV. J. WESLEY'S
[March, 1787. next evening we had another large congregation equally serious.
Thursday, 8. I went on to Bristol; and the same afternoon Mrs. Fletcher came thither from Madeley.
The congregation in the evening was exceeding large.
I took knowledge what spirit they were of.
Indeed the work of God has much increased in Bristol since I was here last, especially among the young men, many of whom are a pattern to all the society.
Fri. 9.—I went over to Kingswood, and found the school in a better state than I expected, considering the want of a second master, which they had for some time laboured under.
Sat. 10.—I had the pleasure of an hour's conversation with Mrs. Fletcher.
She appears to be swiftly growing in grace, and ripening for a better world. I encouraged her to do all the good she could during her short stay in Bristol.
Accordingly she met, in the following week, as many of the classes as her time and strength would permit; and her words were as fire, conveying both light and heat to the hearts of all that heard her.
Sun. 11.—We had a solemn season at the Room, both in the morning and evening ; and also in the afternoon at Kingswood, where the work of God revives as well as at Bristol.
I strongly warned the people of Bristol of their indolence, through which the Preacher had twelve, ten, or five hearers in a morning; and advised them to shake it off.
Many of them did so; and I suppose we had three hundred on Monday morning, one hundred and fifty on Saturday, and between two and three hundred every morning of the week besides.
Monday, 12, and on the four days following, I met the society.
They were considerably increased both in grace and number.
In the evening we had a Sunday's congregation, and a very uncommon pouring out of the Spirit. If this continues, the society in Bristol will soon vie with that in Dublin.
On Thursday, 15, we had such another shower of grace.
Many were wounded, and many healed. Yesterday that blessed saint, Sarah Bulgin, went to rest in the full triumph of faith.
Sunday, 18. I preached her funeral sermon to a listening multitude, and had such a number of communicants as was never seen together at Bristol Room before. In the evening we had a lovefeast, at which Mrs. Fletcher simply declared her present experience. I know no one that is so changed for the better in a few years, even in her manner of speaking. It is now smooth, easy, and natural, even when the sense is deep and strong.
Mon. 19.—1 left Bristol with much satisfaction » expecting to.
March, 1787.] JOURNAL.
hear of a plentiful harvest there; and in the evening preached at Stroud.
The House was unusually filled, both with people 'and with the power of God.
Tuesday, 20. We had a large congregation at five.
Afterwards I met the select society, many of them enjoying the pure love of God, and constantly walking in the light of his countenance. ,We then visited one that was always sick and in pain, and always rejoicing in God.
Another man we found nearly in the same condition,—always afflicted, and always happy.
Mrs. Wathen, a few doors from them, left by a most affectionate husband with six children, is a pattern to allabout her. I walked from hence through one of the loveliest valleys I ever saw, running, with a clear stream in the midst of it, between two lofty and fruitful mountains, sprinkled all over with little white houses.
Between eleven and twelve L reached Cirencester ; and, no larger place being to be procured,
I preached at one in our own Room, to as many as could hear, either in or near it.
And the labour was not lost: They all drunk in the word, as the thirsty earth the showers.
In the evening I preached to a multitude of people, in the Tolbooth, at Gloucester. High and low, rich and poor, behaved well.
I trust a good blessing is coming to Gloucester also.
Wed. 21.—We had a numerous congregation at six, on whom I strongly enforced the great salvation.
About eleven T had the satisfaction of spending an hour with the Bishop; a sensible, candid, and, I hope, pious man.
The palace in which he lives (once the Priory) is a venerable place, quite retired and elegant, though not splendid ; the chapel, in particular, fitted up by good Bishop Benson.
The hall is noble ; as are also two or three of the bedchambers.
But how soon must all these change their possessor !
Finding prejudice was now laid asleep, the tide running the contrary way, our friends thought it time to prepare for building their preaching-house ; anda hundred pounds are already subscribed.
In the evening I preached to a larger congregation than ever; but all was still as night: And once more in the morning, on, " Whosoever doeth the will of God, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother."
Thur. 22.—About noon I preached at Tewkesbury, to the largest congregation I have seen there for many years; and in the evening, to our lovely and loving people, at Worcester ;— plain, old, genuine Methodists.
REV. J. WESLEY'S
[ March, 1787.
Fri, 23.—Notice having been given, though without my knowledge, I went over to Stourport, a small, new-built village, almost equally distant from Bewdley and from Kidderminster.
I had seen Mr. Heath before, a middle-aged Clergyman, who is going over to Cokesbury-College, and is, I believe, throughly qualified to preside there.
I met his wife and two daughters here, who are quite willing to bear him company ; and I think their tempers and manners, so " winning soft, so amiably mild," will do him honour wherever they come.
At noon, abundance of people being gathered together from all parts, I preached on Isaiah liii. 6,7.
We have not had such an opportunity since we left Bristol.
The stout-hearted trembled ; and every one seemed almost persuaded to be a Christian.
The congregation at Worcester, in the evening, seemed to be of the same spirit ; and God spoke to every heart.
Sat. 24.—I went on to Birmingham: But my hoarseness increased ; so that I was afraid the people would not hear me in the evening.
But they did, though the congregation was uncommonly large.
Sunday, 25. Having promised to read Prayers and administer the sacrament, I knew not how I should do, But as we were going to the House, Mr. Heath, just come to town, overtook us.
So he read Prayers, and assisted me in delivering the sacrament to seven or eight hundred communicants.
In the evening the House at Birmingham, as it was rainy, contained half (I suppose) of those that would willingly have come in.
Those that could get in found it an acceptable time ; and we all praised God with joyful lips.
Mon. 26.—I spent an agreeable hour with the select society.
Most of them still enjoy the pure love of God, and the rest are earnestly panting after it.
I preached in the evening (at the request of a friend) on 2 Cor. v. 19, &.
Many seemed to receive the word with all readiness, and I trust will bring forth fruit with patience.
Lues. 27.—I went on to Wednesbury.
As it rained great part of the afternoon, most of the congregation could get into the House; and I took knowledge of the ancient spirit, although most of our first hearers are gone to rest.
Wed. 28.—About ten Mr. Horne (from Madeley) read Prayers in the church, at Darlaston; and I preached on those words of Ruth, in the First Lesson, "Thy people shall be my
March, 1787.] JOURNAL.
people, and thy God shall be my God."
We have had no such time since I left Bristol.
The flame of love seemed to melt many hearts. What has God done for Darlaston! How are the last become first !
In the evening I opened the new House at Wolverhamp~ ton, nearly as large as that at Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
It would not near contain the people, though they were wedged together as close as possible.
I believe such a congregation was never seen in Wolverhampton before; not only so serious, but so well-behaved.
I hope this is a token for good.
Thur. 29.—About twelve I preached at Lane-End. It being too cold to stand abroad, the greater part of the earnest congregation squeezed into the preaching-house. Herewe entered into the country which seems to be all on fire,—that which borders on Burslem on every side: Preachers and people provoking one another to love and good works, in such a manner as was never seen before. In the evening I preached at Burslem. Observing the people flocking together, I began half an hour before the appointed time.
But, notwithstanding this, the House would not contain one half of the congregation: So, while I was preaching in the House to all that could get in, John Broad-. bent preached in a yard to the rest.
The love-feast followed ; but such aone as I have not known for many years. While the two or three first spoke, the power of God so fell upon all that were present, some praying, and others giving thanks, that their voices could scarce be heard: And two or three were speaking at a time, till I gently advised them to speak one at a time ; and they did so, with amazing energy.
Some of them had found. peace a year ago, some within a month or a week, some within a day or two; and one of them, a potter's boy, told us, " At the prayer-meeting I found myself dropping into hell; and I cried to the Lord, and he showed me he loved me.
But Satan came immediately, and offered me a bag of money, as long as my arm ; but I said, ' Get thee behind me, Satan.'"
Several also testified that the blood of Christ had cleansed them from al} sin. Two declared, after bitter cries, that they knew their sins were just then blotted out by the blood of the Lamb ; and I doubt not but it will be found, upon inquiry, that several more were either justified or sanctified.
Indeed there has been, for some time, such an outpouring of the Spirit here, as has not been in any other part of the kingdom ; particularly in the
REV. J. WESLEY'S
[April, 1787. meetings for prayer.
Fifteen or twenty have been justified inaday.
Some of them had been the most notorious, abandoned sinners, in all the country ; and people flock into the society on every side; six, eight, or ten, in an evening.
Fri. 30.—I had appointed to preach at five in the morning ; 'but soon after four I was saluted by a concert of music, both vocal and instrumental, at our gate, making the air ring with a hymn to the tune of Judas Maccabeus: It was a good prelude.
So I began almost half an hour before five ; yet the House was crowded both above and below. IJ strongly, but very tenderly, enforced that caution, "Let him that standeth take heed lest he fall."
Andis not God able to make them stand?
Yea, and he will do it, if they walk humbly with God.
In the evening I preached at Congleton to a serious and well-established people.
Here I found my coeval, Mr. -—, two months (I think) younger than me, just as a lamp going out for want of oil, gently sliding into a better world: He sleeps always, only waking now and then just long enough to say, "I am happy."
Sat. 31.—I went on to Macclesfield, and found a people still alive to God, in spite of swiftly increasing riches.
If they continue so, it will be the only instance I have known, in above half a century.
I warned them in the strongest terms I could, and believe some of them had ears to hear.
Sun. Avrit 1.—Fearing nothing so much as lest a people so much at ease should settle upon their lees, I preached at the new church, in the most awakening manner I could, on Rev. xx. 11: "I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, S56,
I then hastened to Manchester; and endeavoured to convince a crowded congregation of the full spiritual meaning of those important words, " By grace are ye saved, through faith."
Mon. 2.—About noon I preached at Stockport, and in the evening at Manchester; where I fully delivered my own soul, both then, and the next day. W% ednesday, 4. I went to Chester, and preached in the evening on Heb. iii. 12. Finding there was no packet at Parkgate, I immediately took places in the mail-coach for Holyhead.
The porter called us at two in the morning, on Thursday, but came again in half an hour, to inform us the coach was full; so they returned my money, aad at four I took a post-chaise. We overtook the coach at Conway ; and, crossing the ferry with the passengers, went forward with-
April, 1787.] JOURNAL.
out delay. So we came to Holyhead an hour before them, and went on board the Le Despenser between eleven and twelve o'clock.
At one we left the harbour; and at two the next day came into Dublin-Bay.
On the road and in the ship I read Mr. Blackwell's " Sacred Classics Ilustrated and Defended."
I think he fully proves his point, that there are no expressions in the New Testament which are not found in the best and purest Greck authors.
In the evening we had a Sunday's congregation, and a blessing from on high: I then retired to my lodgings which were at Arthur Keene's, about half a mile out of town ; a pleasant, healthy spot, where were peace and love, and plenty of all things.
Aprit 8.—(Being Easter-Day.) I preached in Bethesda, Mr. Smyth's new chapel.
It is very neat, but not gay; and I believe will hold about as many people as West-Street chapcl.
Mr. Smyth read Prayers, and gave out the hymns, which were sung by fifteen or twenty fine singers; the rest of the congregation listening with much attention, and as much devotion, as they would have done to an opera.
But is this Christian worship?
Or ought it ever to be suffered in a Christian church? It was thought we had between seven and eight hundred communicants ; and indeed the power of God was in the midst of them.
Ourown Room in the evening was well filled with people, and with the presence of God.
Afterward we had a love-feast, which I suppose might have continued till midnight, if all had spoken that were ready to speak.
On Monday and Tuesday 1 preached again at Bethesda, and God touched several hearts, even of the rich and great: So that (for the time at least) they were " almost persuaded to be Christians." It scems as if the good Providence of God had prepared this place, for those rich and honourable sinners, who will not deign to receive any message from God but in a genteel way.
Wed. 11.—By conversing with many of our friends, I found they were stillincreasing in grace as well asin number.
The society now contains upwards of a thousand members ; so. that it has outrun all in England, but that of London.
After this amazing flow, we must expect an ebb: It will he well if only two hundred of these fall away.
On Thursday and Friday the congregations were still uncommonly large, and seemed to feel all that was spoken.
Sat. 14,—Even at the Gravel-Walk, where the congregation
REV. J. WESLEY'S
[April, 1787. used to be small enough, the House was crowded in the evening ; although the soldiers (seventy or eighty of whom are in the society) could not attend, it being the hour of their roll-calling.
Sun. 15.—I preached first at the new Room, and afterwards. at Bethesda: Many fair blossoms we see here also; and surcly some fruit will follow!
In the evening our House could not contain the congregation, though they squeezed together as close as possible.
I believe few of them heard in vain: Such attention sat on every face, as I seldom see even in Bristol or London.
Mon. 16.—I set out early, and preached at Prosperous about ten, to a numerous congregation ; and although I had come ten miles out of my way, I did not regret my labour.
In the evening we came to Philipstown, which we had forsaken for near forty years; yet at length there isa prospect of good. A little socicty is formed ; and some troopers, who are part of it, keep all the town in awe. The congregation was as quiet as that in Dublin, both in the evening and at seven in the morning.
Here is seed sown once more ; and God is able to givea plentiful harvest, Tues. 17.—I crossed over to my old friends at Tyrrel's Pass.
It was supposed the House would hold the congregation in the evening, but it would hardly contain a fourth part of them:
So I preached in the yard, not only to Protestants, but (I was informed) most of the Papists in the town; and we found God was no respecter of persons.
Wednesday, 18. The House was well filled in the morning, and we had a comfortable season 3 as also at Goolylough in the evening, where God spoke to many hearts.
Thursday, 19. About noon I preached at Kenagh, to a numerous congregation: For many years we seemed to be beating the air here; but a few months since, God so blessed the preaching of poor John Bredin, Just tottering over the grave, that we have now a lively society, swiftly increasing both in grace and number.
We went hence to Longford, where a multitude of people soon assembled in the Town-Hall.
Ne found much liberty of speech, and I have seldom seen, a congregation more affected.
I observed one genteel woman, who. kept her eyes fixed, from the beginning to the end; and was. agreeably surprised, when she called upon me, to find one of my old flock at Castlebar.
Once more she has set her hand to the plough: May she never look back !
Fri. 20.—I went to Athlone, and preached in the evening to.
April, 1787.] JOURNAL.
a congregation of deeper experience than any I had seen since Tleft Dublin. Yet the next day I thought it expedient to press upon them the advice of the Apostle, " Let him that assuredly standeth " (so it should be rendered) " take heed lest he fall."
Sun. 22.—I opened and applied that glorious text, " The help that is done upon earth, ke doeth it himself."
Is it not strange that this text, Psalm Ixxiv. 12, is vanished out of the new translation of the Psalms?
I found the work of God much increased here; and it is a favourable circumstance, that of the three Ministers in the town two are our fast friends, and the third no enemy.
The wind driving us into the House at six, we were crowded sufficiently.
Afterwards I administered the sacrament to the society; and not without a remarkable blessing.
Mon. 23.—Having taken leave of our affectionate friends at Athlone, I went on to Balinasloe; but here we were at a loss ; the usual preaching-place would not contain half the people ; and the wind was so high, and so extremely cold, that they could not stand abroad.
However, we made the best shift we could with two rooms, together with the passage and staircase.
I strongly explained what it is to build upon the sand; and all that could hear seemed to receive the word gladly : Some, I hope, will bring forth fruit with patience.
The church at Aghrim was so filled in the evening as it scarce ever was before.
I believe God enabled me to find the way to the hearts both of Protestants and Roman Catholics.
I never saw so general an impression made on the people of this town before.
In the morning, Twesday, 24, the preaching-house was well filled; and I exhorted them in St.
John's words, " Look to yourselves, that ye lose not the things which ye have gained, but that ye receive a full reward."
I did not find either so large or so serious a congregation in the church at Eyre-Court. I preached between ten and eleven to a number of unconcerned hearers, and then went on to Birr.
There has been lately a great shaking among the dry bones here.
The congregations are much increased, and hear with deep attention ; and several members have been added to the society. 'I would fain have preached in the Square, as I did before; but the wind and rain did not permit; so as many as could, crowded into the preaching-house.
I preached on, "TI am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ ;" a subject which, it
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REV. J. WESLEY'S
[April, 1787. seemed, suited the hearers; many of whom are hindered chiefly by evil shame from being altogether Christians.
Wed. 25.—I once more visited my old friends at Tullamore.
Have all the balloons in Europe done so much good as can counterbalance the harm which one of them did here a year or two ago?
It took fire in its flight, and dropped it down on one and another of the thatched houses so fast that it was not possible to quench it till most of the town was burned down.
I preached in the assembly-room, to a large congregation, a few of whom are still alive to God.
In the morning, for the sake of good old Matthew Moore, who is not likely to hear me again, I preached in his parlour, to as many as that and the other rooms would contain, on, (Luke xx. 34, &c.,) "They neither marry, nor are given in marriage: Neither can they dic any more: For they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection."
Thur. 26.—Ahbout noon I preached at Portarlington, not in the noisy market-place, but in our own House, throughly filled with attentive hearers.
In the evening I preached in the church at Mount-Mellick, larger than either that at EyreCourt or Aghrim ; and the whole congregation behaved well :
I have seen few such since I left Dublin.
Friday, 27. We went to Kilkenny, nine-and-twenty Trish miles from MountMellick.
Religion was here at a low ebb, and scarce any society left, when God sent three troops of horse, several of whom are full of faith and love.
Since they came, the work of God has revived.
I never saw the House so filled since it was built ; and the power of God seemed to rest upon the congregation, as if he would still have a people in this place.
Sat, 28.—]Y preached in the morning to about a hundred people at Kilkenny, on the general judgment.
They seemed to feel what was spoken.
I left Mr. Kane behind me for two or three days, to follow the blow ; and I trust before he leaves the town, God will lay such a foundation even there as shall never be overthrown.
We reached Carlow before noon; and were much refreshed with the hearty affection of our brethren, who had not forgotten me, though I had not visited them for near sixteen years. Inthe evening I preached at theassembly-room, to alarge and tolerably serious congregation, They seemed more serious in the morning,
Sunday, 29, when I spoke in a manner more suited to their
May; 2787.) JOURNAL.
capacitics, in largely explaining and strongly enforcing our Lord's words, " One thing is needful.""
The church is far the neatest (though not fine) of any I have seen since we left
Dublin. The Rector came after Service, and spent near an hour with us in friendly conversation.
In the evening I would have preached in the open air; but Ahe wind was too cold and too high: So I applied the thirteenth of the Corinthians in the assembly-room, to the most affected congregation I have seen at Carlow: And here is a plentiful harvest; the rather, because several of the troopers quartered here are much alive to God, and "adorn in all things the doctrine of God our Saviour."
Mon. 30.—We went over high and steep mountains, interspersed. with lovely valleys, to Bunklody ; now called NewtownBarry, one of the pleasantest towns which I have seen in the kingdom. Here we rejoiced to meet Mrs. Cookman, with sister
(Henry) Moore, and Miss Acton from Dublin, who came on purpose, and willingly accompanied us to Waterford, and thence to Clonmell.
I preached in the assembly-room here also ; but to a congregation very little awakened.
But how soon can our Lord say to any of these, " Lazarus, come forth!"
About noon we reached Enniscorthy.
Here likewise the use of the assembly-room was promised; but a Clergyman (whose father died in black despair, crying out the room was full of devils) caused that promise to be retracted: So I stood in a large yard; and, though it blew a storm, we had an exceeding large congregation, three or perhaps four times as many as the assembly-room would have contained.
I preached on, "If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him."
To avoid the ferry, we went the mountain-way, and about five came to Wexford.
Were ever assembly-rooms put to better use?
That in Wexford, wherein I preached, was one of the largest I ever saw; and high and low, rich and poor, flocked together; and it seemed as if many of them were ripe for the Gospel.
I expect there will be a good harvest in this place.
; Tues. May 1.—Setting out early in the morning, between nine and ten I preached in the church at Old-Ross, to a large company of as plain country-people as ever I saw in Yorkshire.
We reached Waterford between two and three.
At six 1 preached in the Court-House, to an immense congregation, while a file of musketeers, ordered by the Mayor, paraded at the 2B2