through a delightful country to Clonmell. At six I preached

through a delightful country to Clonmell. At six I preached

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[May, 1787. door.

Two or three hundred attended in the morning, and gladly received the whole truth.

In the evening the congregation was larger than before, and equally attentive.

Thursday, 3. I took my leave of this earnest, loving people, and went on through a delightful country to Clonmell.

At six I preached in the Court-House..

I was much surprised.

I know not when I have seen so well-dressed and ill-behaved a congregation ; but I was told it was the same way that they behaved at church.

Pity then they do not turn Papists.

The Church of England needs no such members: They are no honour to it.

Fri. 4.—With great difficulty we got over a most horrid road to Capperquin; but that from thence to Tallagh (eight miles) was exceeding pleasant.

The remaining ten miles were very tolerable; so that we reached Youghall in good time.

The Court-House was throughly filled at six, and above half filled at five inthe morning.

Saturday, 5. We went onto Cork.

The latter was pleasant beyond description. Ata very small distance on the left hand, the river " rolled its sinuous train ;" beyond which were shady trees, covering a steep hill, and rising row ahove row.

On the right we had another sloping mountain, tufted over with trees, sometimes forming one green, even wall, sometimes scattered up and down.

Between these appeared several beautiful seats, some of them fit for Noblemen.

At six in the evening the preaching-house would ill contain the congregation ; and many of the rich and honourable were among them!

Who hath warned these to flee from the wrath to come?

Sun. 6.—We had an evening congregation at seven, whom I warned to order their conversation aright.

At three in the afternoon I preached on the road to a numerous congregation; but many of them, especially the genteeler sort, were rude as colts untamed.

We stowed the people together in the evening as close at it was possible; but still many were constrained to go away, finding no place even at the door. Monday, 7. The congregation at five in the morning was little inferior to that we used to see on Sunday evening.

This time also we had many of the gay and honourable, who seem, at present, almost persuaded to be Christians.

O what shoals of halfawakened sinners will be broad awake when it is too late!

On Tuesday likewise the congregations were exceeding large, and deep attention sat on every face.

May, 1787.] JOURNAL.

Wed. 9.—We went to Bandon.

Here also there has beena remarkable work of God; and yet not without many backsliders.

It. was therefore my chief business here to strengthen the weak, and recall the wanderers : So in the evening I preached in the assembly-room, (which was offered me by the Provost,) on,

How shall I give thee up, Ephraim?" and God applied his word. I believe there was a general melting among the people, and many purposed to return to God.

But the Room was exceeding hot, and extremely-crowded ; and yet would not near contain the congregation. Thursday, 10. The preaching-house was filled at five in the morning; and again I applied directly to backsliders, and found a strong hope that "the times of refreshing" will soon "come from the presence of the Lord."

At noon we took a walk to Castle-Barnard.

Mr. Barnard has given it a beautiful front, nearly resembling that of Lord Mansfield's house at Caen-Wood, and opened part of his lovely park to the house, which, I think, has now as beautiful situation as Rockingham-House, in Yorkshire.

Mr. Barnard much resembles, in person and air, the late Sir George Saville.

Though he is far the richest person in these parts, he keeps no race-horses, or hounds; but loves his wife and home, and spends his time and fortune in improving his estate, and employing the poor.

Gentlemen of this spirit are a blessing to their neighbourhood.- May God increase their number !

In the evening, finding no building would contain the congregation, I stood in the main street, and testified, to a listening multitude, "This is not your rest."

I then administered the Lord's Supper to the society ; and God gave us a remarkable blessing.

Fri. 11.—I took an affectionate leave of our friends at five.

T left them full of good desires and resolutions.

Calling on one that was ill at Innishannon, word was quickly brought me, that the people were flocking together to the preaching-house.

It was soon filled from end to end; and I preached to them "Jesus Christ, made of God to us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption." About noon I preached in the Court-House at Kinsale, to a very large congregation.

But how different from that which I had in the bowling-green, two years ago!

That was one of the most indecent, ill-mannered congregations that ever I saw in Ireland. This was as eminently well-behaved ; the sovereign and many genteel persons being among them. It

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[May, 1787. was no wonder to see the congregation at Cork in the evening equally well-behaved.

So they always are; the chief of the city being no longer bitter enemies, but cordial friends.

Sat. 12.—A gentleman invited me to breakfast, with my old antagonist, Father O'Leary. I was not at all displeased at being: disappointed. He is not the stiff, queer man that I expected; but of an easy, genteel carriage, and seems not to be wanting either in sense or learning. In the afternoon, by appointment, I waited on the Mayor,—an upright, sensible man, who is diligently employed, from morning to night, in doing all the good he can.

He has already prevailed upon the Corporation to make it a fixed rule, that the two hundred a year, which was spent in two enter-tainments, should for the future be employed in relieving indigent freemen, with their wives and children.

He has carefully regulated the House of Industry, and has instituted a Humane Society for the relief of persons seemingly drowned ; and he is unwearied in removing abuses of every kind.

When will our English Mayors copy after the Mayor of Cork?

He led me through the Mayoralty-House,—a very noble and beautiful structure. The dining-room and the ball-room are magnificent, and shame the MansionHouse in London by their situation ; commanding the whole river, the fruitful hills on every side, and the meadows running between them. He was then so good as to. walk with me quite through the city to the House of Industry, and to go with me through all the apartments; which are quite sweet and commodious.

An hundred and ninety-two poor are now lodged therein ; and the master (a pious man, and a mem-. ber of our society) watches over them, reads with them, and. prays with them, as if they were his own children.

Sun. 18.—We had a very comfortable opportunity at eight in Cork.

At three Mr. Broadbent preached on the parade.

At five (as we removed the benches, and stowed the people close .ogether) the Room contained most of the people; and I took a solemn leave of them, after closely applying our

Lord's question, " Do ye now believe ?"

Mon. 14.—We went to Kilfinnan, about twenty Irish miles (so I compute) from Mallow.

I preached in the Court-House, about seven, to a large and serious audience ; and again at five in the morning, T'wesday, 15.

We then went on, through a delightful country, to Limerick.

Here were always an affectionate people; but I never found them so much so as now. It

May, 1787. ] JOURNAL.

was too cold in the evening to stand abroad ; so we squeezed as many as possible into the preaching-house.

I preached on, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart." Many here once experienced this ; but few, if any, retain it now !

Wed. 16.—The congregation at five filled the House almost as well as it was filled in the evening.

Finding a remarkable deadness, I inquired what were the reasons of it; and found, 1.

There had been, for several months, a deep misunderstanding between the Preachers and the chief of the society.

Hence, on the one hand, the Preachers had little life or spirit to preach ; and, on the other, the congregation dwindled away.

2. Many had left off meeting their bands, and many others seldom met their classes.

3. Prayer-meetings were entirely given up.

What wonder if all the people were grown dead as stones?

In the evening I endeavoured to re-awaken those that were settling upon their lees, by strongly applying those solemn words, "The first shall be last, and the last first ; for many are called, but few are chosen."

In the morning, Thursday, 17, I endeavoured to stir them up once more to hunger and thirst after righteousness, after the whole image of God, without which they will still remain Cold, languid, weary, heartless, dead.

After morning service I met the Stewards and Leaders, and inquired into the rise of the late misunderstanding.

I found the matter itself was nothing; but want of patience on both sides had swelled the mole-hill into a mountain.

O how patient, how meek, how gentle toward all men ought a Preacher, especially a Methodist, to be!

In the afternoon I walked through all the parts of the Workhouse, called, in Ireland, the House of Industry.

It is pleasantly situated on a rising ground near the river ; and, I believe, would contain about three hundred persons.

(That at Dublin contains six hundred.) At present there are about eighty persons there, the contributions falling short.

The apartments are large, airy, and sweet; and the poor (most of whom are employed) seem contented.

Every time' I preached I found more and more hope that God will revive his work in this city.

I know he will, if the prayer-meetings are restored ; these are never without fruit.

Fri. 18.—I set out carly in the morning, and reached

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[May, 1787.

Castlebay about four in the afternoon.

I had much conversation with Mrs. Persse, a woman of many sorrows.

But when she has been tried, she shall come forth as gold.

In the evening I preached at Killchrist, about four miles from Castlebay.

The number of the people constrained me to stand in the open air, though the wind was high and cold.

They were all attentive and serious, except one young gentleman, who would fain have laughed, if he could.

But his sport was quickly spoiled; and before the sermon was half over, he was as serious as his neighbours.

Sat. 19.—In two hours and a half we came to Athenry, the rival of Killmallock, once a flourishing city, now a heap of ruins:

But even these are now covered with earth. It was built by King John, as well as the other; and seems, by its walls, to have been one of the largest cities in the kingdom. Being wrong directed when we left this, we got almost to Galway, going about six miles out of our way to Cahir-Morress. However, I reached Ballinrobe in time to preach to a large and well-behaved (although genteel) congregation. I preached again at eight in the morning, Sunday, 20, and then hastened on to Castlebar. We went straight to church.

I preached at five in our new House; I think, larger than that at Limerick, and throughly filled with as attentive a congregation as any I have seen in the kingdom.

Mon. 21.—Little misunderstandings between themselves have continually hindered the work of God in this society. This morning I heard the contending parties face to face, and once more made them friends.

A numerous congregation listened with all attention, in the evening, to that important word of our

Lord, " Whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother."

Tuesday, 22. One of the men confined for murder, earnestly importuned me to visit him.

I did so; but he seemed as dead asa stone.

And I did not wonder ; for such an action, performed in cool blood, I never heard of before.

Mr. M'Donnel, who had his leg wounded by one shot, and both his arms broke by another, was sitting on the ground, when this wretch came and presented a blunderbussg.

He begged only five minutes to say his prayers. Andrew swore, "No, not'one;" and instantly shot him through the heart !

This whole transaction, from the beginning to the end, containing such a series of calm, deliberate murder, perpetrated with so shocking circumstances, is hardly to be paralleled in history.

May, 1787.] JOURNAL.

Some time since a shrewd man said, "This country will never be in quiet, till one of these men has murdered the other, and then is hanged for it."

Wed. 23.—Leaving our little society in peace and love, we went by Swineford to Sligo.

At six I preached in the new 'Court-House, a very spacious and commodious building, toa more numerous and more attentive congregation than I have seen here for many years.

A large congregation was present again at five in the morning, J'hursday, 24; so that I am not without hope, the work of God may at length revive here also.

I had purposed going straight from hence to Annadale; but notice had been given of my preaching at Manorhamilton.

It is true, this was five or six miles out of my way, and abundantly worse road.

However, I would not disappoint the poor people; although by this means Mr. Slack's dinner was delayed till near six o'clock.

I preached at seven to a very serious congregation, and passed a comfortable evening.

Fri. 25.—I had a day of rest in this lively family, only preaching morning and evening.

Saturday, 26. I preached at Ballyconnel about eleven: In the afternoon I took a walk in the Bishop of Kilmore's garden.

The house is finely situated ; has two fronts, and is fit for anobleman.

We then went into the church-yard, and saw the venerable tomb, a plain flat stone, inscribed, Depositum Gulielmi Bedel, quondam Episcopi Kilmorensis :* Over whom even the rebel army sung, Requiescat in pace ultimus Anglorum.

" Let the last of the Englishmen rest in peace."

At seven I preached to a large congregation.

It blew a storm, but most of the congregation were covered by a kind of shed raised for the purpose ; and not a few were greatly comforted.

Sun. 27.—I preached in Cavan at seven, and then hastened forward to Clones, leaving Mr. Broadbent to preach at Ballyhays; which he did with good effect. But I needed not to have been in such haste; for the Church Service did not begin till twelve. Such a number of communicants, I suppose, was never seen at thischurch before.

The Service ended about half past three.

The question then was, where I should preach.

The furious wind and violent rain made it impracticable to preach (where I intended) at the head of the market-place; but I * Here are deposited the remains of Witt1am Bebe, formerly Bishop of Kilmore.—EDIT.

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[May, 1787. made shift to stand on one side of it in a door-way, where I was pretty well sheltered; Although the poor people were exposed to heavy rain during the whole sermon, none of them seemed to regard it; and God did indeed send a gracious rain upon their souls, so that many rejoiced with joy unspeakable.

Mon, 28.—Having all the parties together, I inquired into an odd affair which occurred here a few months ago. F. B., Leader of the class of single women, and always hitherto of an unblemished character, was accused of immodesty by Mr. A gilt whose house she had lived for several years.

I found this accusation to be totally groundless.

John Carr, one of our oldest members, with a few others, spent an hour in reading and prayer, while a Local Preacher was reading a sermon at the Room; this was represented to the Assistant as done in a spirit of opposition, and as an intention of leaving the society; (a thing which never entered into their thoughts ;) and he was urged to read them out of the society.

Accordingly, he read out fourteen at once: I could not find, upon the strictest inquiry, that they had been guilty of any fault but meeting together that evening ; so I willingly received them all again, requiring only one condition of the contenders on both sides, to say not one word of anything that was past.

The spirit of peace and love gloriously descended on them all, at the evening preaching, while I was explaining the " fruit of the Spirit."

They were again filled with consolation at the Lord's Supper; and again in the morning, while Mr. Broadbent applied,

Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith the Lord."

Tues. 29.—The old murderer is restrained from hurting me; but, it seems, he has power over my horses. One of them I was obliged to leave in Dublin, and afterwards another, having bought two to supply thcir places ; the third soon got an ugly swelling in his shoulder, so that we doubted whether we could goon; and a boy at Clones, riding (I suppose galloping) the fourth over stones, the horse fell and nearly lamed himself,

However, we went on softly to Aughalun, and found such acongregation as I had not seen before in the kingdom. The tent, that is, a covered pulpit, was placed at the foot of a green, sloping mountain, on the side of which the huge multitude sat (as their manner is) row above row. While I was explaining, "God has given unto us his Holy Spirit," he was indeed poured out in a wonderful manner.

Tears of joy, and cries were heard

May, 1787.] JOURNAL.

on every side, only so far suppressed as not to drown my voice.

I cannot but hope, that many will have cause to bless.

God for that hour to all eternity.

I preached at Lisbelaw, another little village, about six in the evening.

The small rain continued all the time; but that did not hinder the people from mightily rejoicing in Him who causes "the earth to bring forth at once," and "a nation" to be " born in a day."

Wed. 30.—A large room, designed for an assembly-room, was filled in the morning ; and the poor people appeared to be quite ripe for the highest doctrine of the Gospel ; so I exhorted them, leaving the first principles, to " go on unto perfection."

About eleven I preached in the market-house at Enniskillen, formerly a den of lions; but the lions are become lambs. They flocked together from every part, and were all attention. Before I had half done, God made bare his arm, and the mountains flowed down at his presence.

Many were cut to the heart, and many rejoiced with joy unspeakable:

Surely the last shall be first; and poor Enniskillen shall lift up its head above many of the places where the Gospel has been long preached.

In the evening I preached to another numerous congrega~tion, at Sidare, a large house at the foot of the mountains.

One would wonder whence all the people came: They seemed to spring out of the earth.

Here also there were once many bitter persecutors; but they are vanished away like smoke.

Several of them, indeed, came to a fearful end, and their neighbours took warning by them.

Thur. 31.—We travelled through a pleasant, well-cultivated country to Omagh, the shire town of Tyrone.

It being market-day, a multitude of people presently flocked together to a tent, as they call it, on the side of the Green.

At first they were innocently noisy; (this being a new thing at Omagh ;) but they were soon still as night: I suited my subject to their experience, preaching on, " It is appointed unto men once to die."

God applied it to their hearts.

Not a smile was to be seen; but all seemed to feel the solemn truth.

Thence we went over mountains and dales to Kerlish Lodge, where we met with a hearty welcome, both from Alexander

Boyle, and his amiable wife, who are patterns to all the country.

Although we were at a lone house ten miles from any town, and although the weather-was both rainy and stormy, we had

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[June, 1787. a large congregation in the evening, and afterwards a comfortable love-feast.

I do not wonder the work of God spreads in these parts; the spirit and behaviour of Mr. Boyle and his wife, continually employed in doing good, have an amazing influence on all their neighbourhood.

Some time ago she went to his uncle's at Killrail, who has four daughters grown up.

They began conversing in the evening; they prayed, and sung, and talked and prayed again, till about seven in the morning.

By that time all four of them found a clear sense of pardon ; and two believed they were saved from all sin.

Mr. Boyle had spoke to Dr. Wilson, the Rector of a neighbouring town, concerning my preaching in the church; who wrote to the Bishop, and received a letter in answer, giving a full and free consent.

The Doctor desired me to breakfast with him.

Meantime one of his parishioners, a warm Seceder, took away the key of the church. So I preached in a neighbouring orchard:

I believe, not in vain.

The Rector and his wife were in the front of the congregation.

Afterward we took a view of Lord Abercorn's place.

The house has a lovely situation ; and the front of it is as elegant as any I have seen either in Great Britain or Ireland. The grounds are delightful indeed, perhaps equal to any in the kingdom.

About five in the evening I preached at Killrail.

No house would contain the congregation; so I preached in the open air.

The wind was piercing cold; but the people regarded it not.

Afterward I administered the Lord's Supper to about a hundred of them, and then slept in peace.

Sat. June 2.—It was with difficulty we reached Strabane ; my new horse quite failing.

I had no thought of preaching there, till word was sent, that the Town-Hall was at my service:

I then went to it without delay ; and had a genteel, yet seri- 'ous, congregation.

In the afternoon my horse failed again ; but one of the Preachers tried his; and he drew, as if he had

'been bred to it. Our House at Londonderry not being ready, I preached at six in the Town-Hall, a beautiful and spacious room, to a deeply serious congregation.

Sunday, 3. It was more numerous in the morning, and equally serious ; so was the great congregation in the evening, Surely we shall see more fruit in this city ; but first we shall have need of patience.

Mon. 4.—Mr. Broadbent preached at five, and I at eleven, and he in the evening. He did the same on Tuesday, 5. At

June, 1787.] JOURNAL.

noon we took a walk in the Bishop's garden, and saw his delightful summer-house; a room fifty feet long, finished with the utmost elegance; and situated on the point of a hill that commands the river and all the country: But his Lordship has utterly forsaken it; for it is no longer new.

Wed. 6.—I took leave of my dear friends at Londonderry, and drove to Newtown Limavaddy. I had no design to preach there ; but while we were at breakfast, the people were gathered so fast, that I could not deny them: The House was soon filled from end to end.

I explained to them the fellowship believers have with God.

Thence J went on to Coleraine, and preached at six (as I did two years ago) in the barrack-yard.

The wind was high and sharp enough; but the people here are good old soldiers.

Many attended at five in the morning, and a huge congregation about six in the evening; most of whom, I believe, tasted the good word ; for God was. with us of atruth.

Friday, 8. I could willingly have stayed a little longer with this steady, affectionate people; but I broke from them between six and seven; and went forward, as well as the heavy rain and a tired horse would permit.

About two we reached Ballymena, where we have a small and poor, but wellestablished, society.

The Presbyterian Minister offering his meeting-house, I willingly accepted his offer; and explained to a large congregation, "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself."

And I believe his word fell on many "as the rain, and as the dew upon the tender herb."

Sat. 9—We went through a lovely country to Antrim.

Here likewise the Presbyterian Minister offered me the use of a large and commodious House.

The Bible in the pulpit lying open, I chose, for the subject of my discourse, the words which first met my eye ; namely, "' When they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both."

The greatest part of the country from hence to Belfast is likewise exceeding pleasant.

At six I preached in the Linen-Hall, to a numerous and seriously attentive congregation.

A gentleman invited me to lodge at his house, and showed me the new Presbyterian meeting-house.

It is nearly seventy-two feet by fifty, and is far the most beautiful of any I have seen in Ireland; but I doubt whether it equals

Dr. Taylor's, in Norwich.

That is the most elegant I ever saw.

I preached at ten in the LinenHall, to double the congregation that attended in the evening; and the power of God came

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[June, 1787. wonderfully upon them, melting their hearts, and breaking the rocks in pieces.

In the afternoon I preached in the LinenHall at Lisburn, to a still more numerous congregation ; I think the largest that I have seen since we left England: And all, excepting a few giddy children, behaved as men that heard for life.

Mon. 11.—It being the Quarterly Meeting, I preached at eleven in the Presbyterian meeting-house; a large and handsome building, freely offered both by the Minister and his

Elders ; and it then contained the congregation.

But in the evening the multitude of people constrained me to return to my old stand in the Linen-Hall: And I have hardly had so solemn an opportunity since we came into the kingdom.

Yues. 12.—We came through a most beautiful country to Downpatrick ; a much larger town than I imagined; I think not much inferior to Sligo. The evening was uncommonly mild and bright, there not being a cloud in the sky. The tall firs shaded us on every side, and the fruitful fields were spread all around.

The people were, I think, half as many more as were at Lisburn even on Sunday evening ; on whom I enforced those important words, "Acquaint now thyself with Him, and be at peace."

Wed. 13.—Being informed we had only six-and-twenty miles to go, we did not set out till between six and seven.

The country was uncommonly pleasant, running between two high ridges of mountains. But it was up hill and down, all the way ; so that we did not reach Rathfriland till near noon. Mr. Barber, the Presbyterian Minister, (a princely personage, I believe six feet and a half high,) offering me his new spacious preachinghouse, the congregation quickly gathered together.

I began without delay to open and enforce, "' Now God commandeth all men everywhere to repent."

I took chaise the instant I had done; but the road being still up hill and down, we were two hours going what they called six miles.

I then quitted the chaise, and rode forward.

But even then four miles, so called, took an hour and a half riding; so that I did not reach Dr.

Lesley's, at Tanderagee, till half an hour past four.

About six I stood upon the steps, at Mr. Godly's door, and preached on, "This is not your rest," to a larger congregation, by a third, than even that at Downpatrick.

I scarce remember to have seen a larger, unless in London, Yorkshire, or Cornwall.

Lhur. 14.—Mr. Broadbent and I walked round Dr. Lesley's 'domain, TI have not seen anything of the size in England that

June, 1787.] JOURNAL.

is equal to it. The house stands in the midst of a fruitful hill, which is part beneath, and part above it.

In approaching it, you see no walls, nothing but green trees and shrubs of various kinds.

Enter the court-yard and gate, and you still see no stone walls; but on either hand, The verdurous wall of Paradise upsprings ; and that summer and winter ; consisting wholly of ever-greens, that bloom all the year round. On the upper side of the house, the gently rising hill yields the loveliest scene that can be conceived; such a mixture of shady walks, and lawns sprinkled with trees; at the top of which is a natural rock, under which you may sit and command a most beautiful and extensive prospect: And all this variety has arisen from a rough, furzy heath, by the industry of Dr. Lesley, in thirty years.

I expected the congregation would not be so large this evening as it was the last; but it was far larger, and, if possible, more attentive.

I have scarce ever seen a more pleasing sight.

We were covered round with tall, shady trees; only an opening on one side afforded a view of the wide-extended country.

The people were as motionless as the trees; for the power of God was upon them; and I believe few of them will forget that hour, till their spirits return to God.

Fri. 15.—About eight I preached at Rich-Hill, to a deeply serious congregation. At eleven I preached in the Castle-yard, at Charlemount, to a large congregation, gathered from all parts; it being the Quarterly Meeting. Immediately followed the love-feast.

But the preaching-house would not contain one half of the people: So we borrowed the Green in the Fort, and let the people through the wicket, one by one. They then sat down on the grass, being full as private as in the House; and many spoke their experience quite freely. But the rain obliged us to break off our meeting sooner than we intended. It began in the evening, before I had finished the hymn, but stopped in two or three minutes, and left us a fair and tolerably pleasant evening.

Sat. 16.—I went on to Dungannon; but the town seemed to be in an uproar.

One would have thought Bedlam had broke loose.

The cause was this:—A cock-fight was at hand.

A gentleman asked the Presbyterian Minister for the use of his meeting-house ; but he gave a reason for his denial, viz., that Mr. Hall, one of the society, had said he had played at cards all

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[June, 1787. night ; (which, it seems, was true ;) and therefore he could not allow him to come into his meeting-house. So we removed allt the benches out of our own; and it contained most of the congregation.

JI preached there again in the evening, and then held a love-feast ; at which many were greatly comforted.

Sun. 17.—We knew not what to do at Armagh: The rain would not suffer us to preach in the avenue; and our House would not contain half of the congregation, many of whom came from far, The best shift we could make was to squeeze into the House as many as possible, and keep both the windows and doors open; by which means many more could hear.

In the evening the Seceders (who would think it?) freely gave me the use of their large meeting-house.

It was filled from end to end: But a wise young gentleman observed, that I had quite mistook my subject; my sermon being calculated for the vulgar, not for gentlefolks.

I permitted as many as our House would contain to stay at the meeting of the society ; and gave them a plain account of the Methodists, both as to their rise, principles, and practice.

Mon. 18.—Many seemed not a little moved, while I enforced the words of Eliphaz, (it seems, the eldest and most honourable of Job's three friends,) " Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace."

Afterwards we took a view of the Primate's lodge and chapel, elegant in the highest degree ; and of the domain surrounding them, which is laid out and planted in the most beautiful manner. And what hath the owner thereof?

Not so much as the beholding thereof with his eyes.

Probably he will behold it no more.

He is fully taken up in building a large seat near Dublin, at above eighty years of age!

Tu secanda marmora Locas sub ipsum funus, et sepulchri Immemor struis domos !

In the evening I preached once more in Mr. M'Gough's avenue, and a listening multitude seriously attended.

Surely there will be a harvest here also by and by, although hitherto we see but little fruit.

Tues. 19.—We went on through horrible roads to Newry.

I wonder any should be so stupid as to prefer the Irish roads to the English. The huge unbroken stones, of which they are

For a translation of these lines see p. 311 of this volume.—Eprrt,

June, 1787.] JOURNAL.

generally made, are enough to break any carriage in picces.

No, there is nothing equal to good English gravel, both for horses, carriages, and travellers.

In the evening I preached to a numerous congregation in the large meeting-house., I believe many felt the edge of the word sharper than a two-edged sword: One consequence of which was, that our new Room would not contain the congregation even at five in the morning, but many were constrained to stand without.

Between nine and ten I preached in the market-house at Dundalk. We expected a tumult ; but there was none at all: A very large congregation of rich and poor behaved with the utmost decency, while I enforced,

" Now is the accepted time ; now is the day of salvation." At six in the evening I preached in the Court-House at Drogheda to a crowded congregation, on, "I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God."

Even in this turbulent town, all were quiet, and seemed to feel that God was there.

Thur. 21.—Several of our friends from Dublin met us at the Man-of-War, with whom we went on to Swords; a town famous from time immemorial for all manner of wickedness.

However, finding a congregation waiting, I began without delay ; and all were still as night: So salvation is come to the sinners of Swords also.

In the afternoon it pleased God to bring us safe to Dublin, when we had been absent a little above two months.

Fri. 22.—I began visiting the classes, which employed me to the Thursday following.

We found it necessary to exclude one hundred and twelve members; there remained eleven hundred and thirty-six.

Sun. 24.—At seven I preached in the Room ; at eleven the Service began at Bethesda. I found uncommon liberty there, even among the rich and great. I think some of them felt our

Lord present, both to wound and to heal.

In the evening I preached at the new Room, and it was just as much as I could do without weariness.

Tues. 26.—We were agreeably surprised with the arrival of Dr. Coke, who came from Philadelphia in nine-and-twenty days, and gave us a pleasing account of the work of God in America.

Thursday, 28. I had the pleasure of a conversation with Mr. Howard, I think one of the greatest men in Europe.

Nothing but the mighty power of God can enable VCL. IV.

Cec

REV. J. WESLEY'S

(July, 1787. him to go through his difficult and dangerous employments.

But what can hurt us, if God is on our side?

Sat. 30.—I desired all our Preachers to meet me, and consider the state of our brethren in America, who have been terribly frightened at their own shadow, as if the English

Preachers were just going to enslave them.

I believe that fear is now over, and they are more aware of Satan's devices.

Sun. Jury 1.—At seven I strongly exhorted a large congregation, not to be conformed either to the wisdom, spirit, or fashions of this world, if ever they desired to be transformed in the spirit of their mind, according to the perfect and acceptable will of God.

In the evening I opened and applied those awful words, '" Lord, are there few that be saved ?"

Tues. 8.—A few friends took me to Merino, a seat of Lord Charlemount's, four miles from Dublin.

It contains a lovely mixture of wood, water, and lawns, on which are several kinds of foreign sheep, with great plenty of peacocks; but I could not hear any singing-birds of any kind.

Ta little wondered at this, till I afterwards recollected, that I had not heard any singing-bird, not even a lark, a thrush, or a blackbird, within some miles of Dublin.

In the evening I strongly enforced those awful words, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate," upon a numerous congregation ; who had ears to hear, and hearts to receive the whole Gospel.

Ved. 4.—I spent an hour at the New-Dargle, a gentleman's seat four or five miles from Dublin.

I have not seen so beautifula place in the kingdom. It equals the Leasowes in Warwickshire; and it greatly exceeds them in situation ; all the walks lying on the side of a mountain, which commands all Dublin bay, as well as an extensive and finely-variegated land-prospect.

A little river runs through it, which occasions two cascades, at a small distance from each other. Although many places may exceed this in grandeur, I believe none can exceed it in beauty.

Afterwards I saw the Parliament-House. The House of Lords far exceeds that at Westminster; and the Lord-Licutenant's throne as far exceeds that miserable throne (so-called) of the King in the English House of Lords. The House of Commons is anoble room indeed. It is an octagon, wainscoted round with Trish oak, which shames all mahogany, and galleried all round for the convenience of the ladies.

The Speaker's chair is far more grand than the throne of the Lord Lieutenant. But what

July, 1787.) JOURNAL.

surprised me above all, werethe kitchens of the House, and the large apparatus for good eating. Tables were placed from one end of a large hall to the other ; which, it seems, while the Parliament sits, are daily covered with meat at four or five o'clock, for the accommodation of the members.

Alas, poor Ireland!

Who shall teach thy very senators wisdom?

War is ceased; Séd sevior armis, Luxuria incubuit f * Thur. 5.—Most of our Preachers came to town. I'riday, 6.

Our Conference began; and ended as usual on Tuesday, 10.

We had no jarring string, but all, from the beginning to the end, was love and harmony.

Sun. 8.—I preached at our Room at seven.

At eleven the Service began at Bethesda.

The congregation was exceeding large. I preached on part of the Second Lesson, Luke xx. 34; and many had a large taste of the powers of the world to come.

At the love-feast in the evening, many spoke freely, who were deeply experienced in the ways of God.

Indeed they have fairly profited in the divine life.

I have rarely heard such a conversation evenin England.

On Tuesday evening likewise, many spoke with equal fire, tempered with meekness of wisdom.

Wed. 11.—At five I took an affectionate leave of this loving people ; and, having finished all my business here, in the afternoon I went down with my friends, having taken the whole ship, and went on board the Prince of Wales, one of the Parkgate packets.

At seven we sailed with a fair, moderate wind.

Between nine and ten I lay down, as usual, and slept till near four, when I was waked by an uncommon noise, and found the ship lay beating upon a large rock, about a league from Holyhead.

The Captain, who had not long lain down, leaped up; and, running upon the deck, when he saw how the ship lay, cried out, " Your lives may be saved, but I am undone!"

Yet no sailor swore, and no woman cried out.

We immediately went to prayer; and presently the ship, I know not how, shot off the rock, and pursued her way, without any more damage, than the wounding a few of her outside planks.

About three in the afternoon we came safe to Parkgate; and in the evening went on to Chester.

This quotation from Juvenal is thus translated by Gifford :— Now all the evils of long peace are ours 5

Luxury, more terrible than hostile powers.. —EpDIT.

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[July, 1787.

Fri, 13.—I spent a quiet day ; and in the evening enforced to a crowded audience the parable of the Sower. I know not that ever I had so large a congregation.

Sun. 15.—I preached at the new church in the morning, on Matt. v. 20; in the afternoon, on 1 Cor. xv. 55; Mr.

Broadbent in the Room at eight in the morning, and between five and six in the evening.

Mon. 16.—The House was well filled at five in the morning.

At noon I took a view of Mr. Ryle's silk-mill, which keeps two hundred and fifty children in perpetual employment.

In the evening I preached on Mark iii. 85; and we had a comfortable opportunity.

Tuesday, 17. About noon I preached in the new chapel at Bullocksmithy; and in the evening at Stockport.

Being informed that the people in general were dead and cold, I strongly applied, " Now it is high time to awake out of sleep."

God was pleased to speak in his word, and that with a mighty voice; but still more powerfully at five in the morning, Wednesday, 18, while I was enforcing that promise, "The Lord whom ye seck will suddenly come to his temple."

I then retired to a little house of Mr.

Brocklehurst's, two miles beyond Manchester.

Here Adam Oldham lived!

O what did riches profit him!

How strange the Providence which put me in his place!

The rest of this week I spent in writing. On Saturday, 21, I returned to Manchester.

Sunday, 22. Our service began at ten. Notwithstanding the severe cold which has continued many days, the House was well filled; but my work was easy, as Dr. Coke assisted me.

As many as could, crowded in in the evening ; but many were obliged to go away.

Afterwards I spent a comfortable hour with the society.

Mon. 23.—I preached morning and afternoon.

In the evening I met the Bands, and admired their liveliness and simplicity.

After preaching on Tuesday morning I retired again to Bruton.

Thursday, 26. About noon I preached in the new preaching-house, to as many as it would well contain, on Isaiah ly. 5, 6.

To-day I read upon the road a very agreeable book, Mr. Dobb's " Universal History."

It gave me a clearer view of ancient times than ever I had before ; but I still doubt of many famous incidents, which have passed current for many ages. To instance in one :—I cannot believe there was ever such a nation as the Amazons in the world.

Aug. 1787.] JOURNAL.

The whole affair of the Argonauts I judge to be equally fabulous ; as Mr. Bryant has shown many parts of ancient history to be: And no wonder, considering how allegories and poetic fables have been mistaken for real histories.

After preaching at Rochdale, I was agreeably surprised by a young womanthat called uponme. Several years, agirl thirteen or fourteen years old was remarkable for piety ; but a year or two after, when I called upon her with great expectation, she had not the least savour of it left.

She came on purpose to inform me that God had restored her ; and she was now determined to live and dieto Him. God grant she may! She will either be an abandoned apostate, or a shining Christian.

Fri. 27.—The House was well filled at five.

I have not seen so large a morning congregation, in proportion to the size of the town, since I returned to England.

I was invited to breakfast at Bury, by Mr. Peel, a calico-printer; who, a few years ago, began with five hundred pounds, and is now supposed to have gained fifty thousand pounds.

O what a miracle if he lose not his soul !

Thence we went on to Bolton. Here are eight hundred poor children taughtin our Sunday-schools, by about eighty masters, who receiveno pay but what they are to receivefrom their Great

Master.

About a hundred of them (part boys and part girls) are taught to sing; and they sang so true, that, all singing together, there seemed to be but one voice.

The House was throughly filled, while I explained and applied the first comaandment.

What is all morality or religion without this?

A mere castle inthe air. In the evening, many of the children still hovering round the House, I desired forty or fifty to come in and sing, Vital spark of heavenly flame.

Although some of them were silent, not being able to sing for tears, yet the harmony was such as I believe could not be equalled in the King's chapel.

Sun. Aueust 5.—In the morning I met the select society ; a lovely company of humble, simple Christians. Several of them appeared to have sound and deep experience of the things of God, and to stand steadfast in the liberty wherewith Christ had made them free. The House was at ten full and warm enough.

Mr. Horne read Prayers, and read them well.

I preached on those words in the First Lesson, " How long halt ye between two opinions ?" and was enabled to press the question home on

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[Aug. 1787.. the consciences of the hearers.

We had five Clergymen,.

(although three only could officiate,) and twelve or thirteen hundred communicants ; and the Master of the feast was in the midst of us, as many found to their unspeakable comfort.

After preaching in the evening, I took a solemn leave of the affectionate society. Here, at least, it undeniably appears that we have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

Mon, 6.—Uaving taken the whole coach for Birmingham, we set out at twelve o'clock, expecting to be there, as usual, about five in the evening ; but having six persons within, and eight without, the coach could uot bear the burden, but broke down before three in the morning: But having patched it together, as well as we could, we went on to Congleton, and got another.

But in an hour or two this broke also; and one of the horses was so throughly tired, that he could hardly set one foot before the other. After all these hinderances, we got to Birmingham just at seven.

Finding a large congregation. waiting, I stepped out of the coach into the House, and began preaching without delay; and such was the goodness of God, that I found no more weariness when I had done than if I had rested all the day.

Here I took a tender leave of Mrs. Heath and her lovely daughters, about to embark with Mr. Heath for America ; whom I hardly expect to see any more till we meet in Abraham's bosom.

Tues. 7.—Setting out a little before five, we reached Worcester between ten and eleven: Resting till half-past twelve, and taking fresh horses at Tewkesbury, we reached

Gloucester before five o'clock.

About seven I preached to a numerous congregation in the new House, on, "I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ ;" and strongly applied the words to those whom they concerned, This night was one of the hottest I ever felt in Europe.

Wed. 8.—We set out at two; and, from the time it was light, rode through one of the pleasantest countries Tever saw. Before five we came to Rodbury-Place; but we were far too early for so genteel a family.

Before we reached Malmsbury, one of my horses fell lame; so I sent my own chaise and horses directly to Bristol, and took post-chaises the rest of the day.

About half-hour after four we came to Salisbury, designing to go straight forward to Southampton; but, to our great surprise, there was not a post-chaise to be hired in the town..

Aug. 1787.] JOURNAL,

After waiting some time, we were informed that notice had been given of my preaching in the evening.

I then saw the providential reason why we could not leave Sarum.

The House was full enough in the evening, and great was the power of God in the midst of them.

Thur. 9.—Desiring to be at Southampton as soon as possible, we took chaise at four in the morning, and (making but a short stay at Romsey) came thither between eight and nine.

We found two sloops nearly ready to sail. The Captain of one promised to sail the next morning; so we sat down content. At seven in the evening I preached in Mr. Fay's school-room, to asmall, but deeply serious, congregation, on, " It is appointed unto men once to die."

I believe some of these will not be forgetful hearers, but will bring forth fruit with patience.

Fri. 10.—At six I preached to nearly the same number, on Heb. iv. 14. In the afternoon I went with a gentleman (Mr.

Taylor) to hear the famous musician that plays upon the glasses.

By my appearing there, (as I had foreseen,) an heap of Gentry attended in the evening; and I believe several of them, as well as Mr. T. himself, did not come in vain.

Sat. 11.—We went on board tlie Queen, a small sloop, and sailed cight or nine leagues with a tolerable wind. But it then grew foul, and blew a storm; so that we were all glad to put in at Yarmouth harbour. About six Dr. Coke preached in the market-house, toa quiet and tolerably attentive congregation.

The storm continuing, at eight in the morning, Sunday, 12, I preached to a much larger congregation.

I had uncommon liberty of speech, and I believe some of them felt that God was there.

At eleven we went to church.

There was a tolerable congregation, and all remarkably well-behaved.

The Minister read Prayers very seriously, and preached on, " Blessed are the poor in spirit."

At four-I preached again, on Luke xix. 42, (part of the Second Lesson in the morning,) "If thou hadst known, even thou," &c.

The market-house was now more than filled ; and not a few seemed to hear as for life.

In the evening Dr. Coke preached again.

We have now delivered our own souls at Yarmouth, and trust God will suffer us to go on to Guernsey.

Mon. 13.—We set out from Yarmouth with a fair wind ; but itsoon turned against us, and blew so hard that in the afternoon we were,glad to put in at Swanage. I found we had still a little

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[Aug. 1787. society here. I had not seen them for thirteen years, and had no thought of seeing them now; but God does all things well.

In the evening I preached in the Presbyterian meeting-house, not often, I believe, so well filled; and afterwards passed half an hour very agreeably with the Minister, in the parsonage-house, which he rents ; a neat retired house, with a delightful garden,

Thence we adjourned to the house of our old brother Collins, and between eight and nine went on board.

Tues. 14.—Sailing on, with a fair wind, we fully expected to reach Guernsey in the afternoon; but the wind turning contrary, and blowing hard, we found it would be impossible.

We then judged it best to put in at the Isle of Alderney; but we were very near being shipwrecked in the bay.

When we were in the middle of the rocks, with the sea rippling all round us, the wind totally failed. Had this continued, we must have struck upon one or other of the rocks: So we went to prayer, and the win:l sprung up instantly.

About sunset we landed ; and, though we had five beds in the same room, slept in peace.

About eight I went down to a convenient spot on the beach, and began giving out a hymn. A woman and two little children joined us immediately.

Before the hymn was ended, we had a tolerable congregation ; all of whom behaved well:

Part, indeed, continued at forty or fifty yards' distance ; but they were all quiet and attentive.

It happened (to speak in the vulgar phrase) that three or four who sailed with us from England, a gentleman with his wife and sister, were near relations of the Governor.

He came to us this morning, and, when I went into the room, behaved with the utmost courtesy.

This little circumstance may remove prejudice, and make a more open way for the Gospel.

Soon after we set sail, and, after a very pleasant passage, through little islands on either hand, we came to the venerable

Castle, standing on arock, about a quarter of amile from Guernsey. The isle itself makes a beautiful appearance, spreading as a crescent to the right and left ; about seven miles long, and five broad ; part high land, and part low.

The town itself is boldly situated, rising higher and higher from the water. The first thing I observed in it was, very narrow streets, and excecding high houses. But we quickly went on to Mr. De Jersey's, hardly a mile from the town.

Here I found a most cordial welcome, both from the master of the house, and all his family.

Aug. 1787.] JOURNAL.

I preached at seven in a large room, to as deeply serious a congregation as I ever saw, on, " Jesus Christ, of God made unto us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, andredemption."

Thur. 16.—I had a very serious congregation at five, in a large room of Mr. De Jersey's house.

His gardens and orchards are of a vast extent, and wonderfully pleasant ; and I know no Nobleman in Great Britain that has such variety of the most excellent fruit ; which he is every year increasing, either from France, or other parts of the Continent.

What quantity of fruit he has, you may conjecture from one sort only :—This summer he gathered fifty pounds of strawberries daily, for six weeks together.

In the evening I preached at the other end of the town, in our own preaching-house. So many people squeezed in, (though not near all who came,) that it was as hot asa stove. But this none seemed to regard; for the word of God was sharper than a two-edged sword.

Fri. 17.—I waited upon the Governor, and spent half an hour very agreeably.

In the afternoon we took a walk upon the pier, the largest and finest I ever saw. The town is swiftly increasing ; new houses starting up on every side.

In the evening I did not attempt to go into the House, but stood near it, in the yard surrounded with tall, shady trees, and proclaimed to a large congregation, " God is a Spirit ; and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth."

I believe many were cut to the heart this hour, and some not a little comforted.

Sat. 18.—Dr. Coke and I dined at the Governor's.

I was well pleased to find other company.

We conversed seriously, for upwards of an hour, with a sensible, well-bred, agreeable man. In the evening I preached to the largest congregation I have seen here, on Jer. viii. 22; and they were all attention.

Surely God will have a people in this place.

Sun. 19.—Joseph Bradford preached at six in the morning, at Mont-Plaisir les Terres, to a numerous congregation.

I preached at half an hour past eight, and the House contained the corigregation. At ten I went to the French church, where there was a large and well-behaved congregation.

At five we had the largest congregation of all; of whom I took a solemn and affectionate leave, as it is probable I may not sce them any more till we meet in Abraham's bosom.

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[Aug. 1787.

Mon.20.— We embarked between three and four in the morning, ina very small, inconvenient sloop, and not aswift sailer; so that we were seven hours in sailing what is called seven leagues.

About eleven we landed at St. Helicr, and went straight to Mr. Brackenbury's house. It standsvery pleasantly, near the end of the town; and has a large convenient garden, with a lovely range of fruitful hills, which rise at a smalk distance from it.

I preached in the evening to an exceeding serious congregation, on Matt. iii. ult.: And almost as many were present at five in the morning ; whom I exhorted to go on to perfection; which many of them, Mr. Clarke informs me, are earnestly endeavouring todo.

Tuesday, 21. We took a walk to one of our friends in the country. Near his house stood what they call the College.

Itis a free-school, designed to train up children for the University ; exceeding finely situated, ina quiet recess, surrounded by tall woods. Not far from it stands,on the top of a high hill, (I suppose a Roman mount,) an old chapel,. believed to be the first Christian church which was built in the island.

From hence we had a view of the whole island, the pleasantest I ever saw ; as far superior to the Isle of Wight as that is to the Isle of Man. The little hills, almost covered with large trees, are inexpressibly beautiful : It seems they are to be equalled in the Isle of Guernsey.

In the evening I was obliged to preach abroad, on, " Now is the day of salvation." I think a blessing seldom fails to attend that subject.

Wed. 22.—In the evening, the Room not containing the people, I was obliged to stand in the yard.

I preached on Rom. ili. 22, 23 ; and spoke exceeding plain: Even the Gentry heard with deep attention.

How little things does God turn to his own glory!

Probably many of these flock together, because I have lived so many years.

And perhaps even this may be the means of their living for ever!

Thur. 23.—I rode to St. Mary's, five or six miles from St.

Helier, through shady, pleasant lanes.

None at the house could speak English, but I had interpreters enough.

In the evening our large Room was throughly filled: I preached on, "By grace are ye saved, through faith.'

Mr. Brackenbury interpreted sentence by sentence; and God owned his word, though delivered in so awkward a manner; but especially in prayer: I prayed in English, and Mr. B. in French.

The houses here are exactly like those in the interior parts

Aug. 1787.] JOURNAL,

of Wales, equal to the best farmers' houses in Lincolnshire ; and the people in general are far better behaved than our country farmers in England.

Fri. 24.—I returned to St. Helier.

The high wind in the evening prevented my preaching abroad.

However, on more than the House would contain, I enforced those awful words, "It is appointed unto men once to die."

I believe the word fell heavy on all that heard; and many wished to die the death of the righteous.

Sat. 25.—Having now leisure, I finished a sermon on discerning the " Signs of the Times."

This morning I had a particular conversation (as I had once or twice before) with Jeannie Bisson of this town; such a young woman as I have hardly seen elsewhere.

She seems to be wholly devoted to God, and to have constant communion with him.

She has a clear and strong understanding; and I cannot perceivethe least tincture of enthusiasm.

I am afraid she will not live long.

I am amazed at the grace of God which is in her: I think she is far beyond Madame Guion, in deep communion with God ; and I doubt whether I have found her fellow in England.

Precious as my time is, it would have been worth my while to come to Jersey, had it been only to see this prodigy of grace.

In the evening God was with us in a very uncommon manner, while I opened and enforced those comprehensive words, "' We preach Christ crucified."

I know not when we have had such an opportunity; it seemed as if every soul present would have found the salvation of God!

Sun. 26.—Dr. Coke preached at five, and I at nine o'clock.

Afterwards I heard the English Service at church; but the congregation was nothing near so large as ours at five in the morning.

We had a French sermon in our Room at three.

Afterwards I met tke society; many of whom came from the country, and had no English ; so Mr. Brackenbury interpreted for me again: Afterwards we both prayed.

Many of the people seemed greatly affected. Between five and six I began preaching in the yard ; but before I had finished my sermon, it poured down with rain ; so I was obliged to conclude abruptly.

Mon. 27.—Captain Cabot, the master of a Guernsey sloop, called upon us early in the morning, and told us, if we chose to go that way, he would set out between five and six.

But the wind being quite contrary, we judged it best to wait alittle

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[Aug. 1787. longer. In the evening, being appointed to preach at seven, I was obliged to preach within.

We were extremely crowded ; but the power of God was so manifested while I declared,

"We preach Jesus Christ, and him crucified," that we soon forgot the heat, and were glad of being detained a little longer than we intended.

I thought when I left Southampton, to have been there again as this day; but God's thoughts were not as my thoughts.

Here we are shut up in Jersey ; for how long we cannot tell.

But it is all well; for thou, Lord, hast done it.

It is my part to improve the time, as it is not likely I shall ever have another opportunity of visiting these islands.

Tues. 28.—Being still detained by contrary winds, I preached at six in the evening to a larger congregation than ever, in the assembly-room.

It conveniently contains five or six hundred people.

Most of the Gentry were present; and I believe felt that God was there in an uncommon degree.

Being still detained, I preached there again the next evening, to a larger congregation than ever.

I now judged, I had fully delivered my own soul: And in the morning, the wind serving for Guernsey, and not for Southampton, I returned thither not unwillingly; since it was not by my choice, but by the clear providence of God; for in the afternoon I was offered the use of the assembly-room; a spacious chamber in the market-place, which would contain at least thrice as many as our former Room.

'I willingly accepted the offer, and preached at six to such a congregation as I had not seen here before; and the word seemed to sink deep into their hearts. I trust it will not return empty.

Wed. 29.—I designed to have followed the blow in the morning ; but I had quite lost my voice.

However, it was restored in the evening; and I believe all in the assembly-room (more than the last evening) heard distinctly, while I explained and applied, "I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God."

In the morning, Thursday, 30, I took a solemn leave of the society.

We set out about nine, and reached St. Peter's in the afternoon.

Good is the will of the Lord. I trust he has something more for us to do here also, After preaching to a larger congregation than was expected on so short a notice, on,

"God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself,' I returned to Mont-Plaisir, to stay just as long as it should

Sept. 1787.] JOURNAL.

please God.

I preached there in the morning, Friday, 31, to a congregation serious a3 death.

Afterwards I looked over Archbishop Usher's Letters; and was surprised to find that great man was fully convinced, 1. That the Septuagint translation continually adds to, takes from, and changes, the Hebrew text at pleasure: 2. That this could not possibly be owing to mistake, but must have been done by design: 3. That the original translation of it was lost long ago; and what has ever since gone under that name isa spurious copy, abounding with omissions, additions, and alterations of the Hebrew text; yet not such as any way destroy the foundation.

I designed to preach abroad in the evening, but the furious wind drove us into the House.

However, our labour was not lost ; for many felt the sharpness of the two-edged sword, while I was expounding Gal. vi. 14.

Sat. SupreMBER 1.—This day twelvemonth I was detained in Holland by contrary winds.

Allis well, so we are doing and suffering the will of our Lord.

In the evening the storm driving us into the House again, I strongly exhorted avery genteel audience (such as I have rarely seen in England) to "ask for the old paths, and walk therein."

Sun. 2.—Being still pent up by the north-east wind, Dr.

Coke preached at six in the morning to a deeply affected congregation.

I preached at eight, on Rom. vii. 33.

At one, Mr. Vivian, a Local Preacher, preached in French, the language of the island.

At five, as the House would not contain half the congregation, I preached in a tolerably sheltered place, on the "joy there is in heaven over one sinner that repenteth ;" and both high and low seemed to hear it gladly.

I then designed to meet the society, but could not.

The people pressed so eagerly on every side, that the House was filled presently; so that I could only give a general exhortation, to walk worthy of their profession.

I was in hopes of sailing in the morning, Monday, 3; but the storm so increased, that it was judged impracticable.

The congregation in the evening increased every day; so I trust we were detained for good purpose.

They appeared to be more and more affected ; so that I believe we were not detained for nothing.

Tues. 4.—The storm continued, so that we could not stir. I took a walk to-day, through what is called the New-Ground, where the Gentry are accustomed to wall in the evening. Both

REV. J. WISLEY'S

[Sept. 1787. the upper ground, which is as level as a bowling-green, and the lower, which is planted with rows of trees, are wonderfully beautiful.

In the evening I fully delivered my own soul, by showing what it is to build upon arock.

But still we could not sail; the wind being quite contrary, as well as exceeding high.

It was the same on Wednesday.

In the afternoon we drank tea at a friend's, who was mentioning a Captain just come from France, that proposed to sail in the morning for Penzance ; for which the wind would serve, though not for Southampton.

In this we plainly saw the hand of God; so we agreed with him immediately; and in the morning, Thursday, 6, went on board with a fair, moderate wind ; but we had but just entered the ship when the wind died away.

We cried to God for help, and it presently sprung up, exactly fair, and did not cease till it brought us into Penzance bay.

We appeared to our friends here, as men risen from the dead.

Great was their rejoicing over us; and great was the power of God in the midst of the congregation, while I explained and applied those words, "Whosoever doeth the will of God, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother."

Sat. 8.—Dr. Coke preached at six to as many as the preaching-house would contain.

At ten I was obliged to take the field, by the multitude of people that flocked together.

I found a very uncommon liberty of speech among them; and cannot doubt but the work of God will flourish in this place.

In the evening I preached at St. Ives, (but, it being the market-day, I could not stand, as usual, in the marketplace,) in a very convenient field at the end of the town, to a very numerous congregation: I need scarce add, and very serious; for such are all the congregations in the county of Cornwall.

Sun. 9.—About nine I preached at the Copper-works, three or four miles from St. Ives, to a large congregation gathered from all parts; I believe, "with thedemonstration of the Spirit."

I then met the society in the preaching-house ; which is unlike any other in England, both as to its form and materials.

It is exactly round, and composed wholly of brazen slags ; which, T suppose, will last as long as the earth. Between one and two

I began in the market-place at Redruth, to the largest congregation I ever saw there ; they not only filled all the windows, but sat on the tops of the houses.

About five I began in the pit at Gwennap.

I suppose we had a thousand more than ever

Sept. 1787.] JOURNAL.

were therebefore: But it was all one; my voice was strengthened accordingly, so that every one could hear distinctly.

Mon. 10.—Lhad a large congregaticn at five, and a peculiar blessing. Thence I went.to Mr. Mill's, the Rector of Kenwyn, half a mile from Truro ; a house fit for a Nobleman ; and the most beautifully situated of any I have seen in the county. At noon I preached in the preaching-house at Truro. It was well filled with deeplyattentive hearers. Thence we went onthrough a swiftly improving country to St. Austle ; and preached in the new House, though not quite finished, to a crowded audience, who seemed all sensible that God was there.

The old House was well filled at five in the morning, Tuesday, 11. 1 did not design to preach at Liskeard, but finding a few people gathered together, I gave them a short discourse ; and then went on to Torpoint, where several of our brethren from the Dock were waiting for us; so we crossed over without loss of time, to an earnest affectionate people.

The House would ill contain the congregation in the evening, and a joyful meeting it was.

Wed. 12.—We went over to Mount Edgecomb, and walked through all the improvements.

The situation is fine indeed.

The lofty hill, nearly surrounded by the sea, and sufficiently adorned with trees, but not crowded, is uncommonly pleasant ; but it did not strike me like Lord Harcourt's seat at Newnham.

And are all these things to be burned up?

At noon I preached at Plymouth.

The House was crowded enough, and a solemn awe sat on all the people; as likewise in the evening at Plymouth Dock.

There is an excellent spirit in this people; and such general peace and unanimity as never was before.

Thur. 13.—We set out early, and dined at Exeter.

In the evening we had a crowded congregation, that drank in -every word.

'This society likewise increases both in number and strength.

Friday, 14. We took the mail-coach, and in the afternoon came to Bath.

Considering the uncertain notice which had been given, we had a larger congregation than was expected ; and many found it a comfortable season, particularly those that were in heaviness.

Sat. 15.—With the assistance of two of my friends, I answered abundance of letters.

In the evening we had an uncommon congregation, on whom I strongly enforced the first principles, (which indeed never can be too much enforced) " By grace are ye saved through faith."

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[Qcts 17872 Sun. 16.—I read Prayers at ten, and preached with a peculiar blessing ; and administered the Lord's Supper to an unusual number of deeply serious communicants.

At halfpast two I began again.

The chapel was more than filled.

Many could not get in; and it was the same case at six in the evening.

At both times I preached considerably longer than I usually do.

Surely the time is come, when God will cause his power to be known here also.

Mon. 17.—Lieaving this society in a better state than it has been in for many years, I went to Bristol, where my brother has been for some weeks.

By the way I preached at Wintanburn, on the foundation of a new preaching-house. There was much rain before I began, and a violent wind all the time I was preaching; yet some of these I trust did come to the marriage.

IT had now two or three days to answer my letters.

Every evening our Room was well filled with deeply attentive hearers.

Fri, 21.—TI spent the evening at the School, and was much pleased with the management of it.

Sun. 23.—In the morning my brother read Prayers, and I preached.

In the afternoon I preached in Temple church, to a very large and serious congregation. My brother desired to preach in the evening: So by the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.

On Monday and the following days I visited the country societies; and had the satisfaction to find most of them growing in grace, and not decreasing in number.

Thur. 27.—About noon I preached at Castle-Carey.

How are the times changed!

The first of our Preachers that came hither, the zealous mob threw into the horse-pond: Now high and low earnestly listen to the word that is able to save their souls.

In the evening I preached at Ditcheat.

Friday, 28.

I preached at Ditcheat again, at Shepton-Mallet ; and atPensford to such a congregation as I have not seen there for many years; and on Saturday returned to Bristol.

Sun. 30.—I read Prayers, and my brother preached.

I preached in the avenue at Kingswood about two; and at five near King's Square; probably the last time this year that I shall preach in the open air.

Monday, Octoser 1, and the three following days, I spoke to the society one by one, and was much refreshed 3 as the love of many was not grown cold, and their number considerably increased.

Oct. 1787.] JOURNAL.

Fri. 5.—I preached at noon in Keynsham; and the power of God was present in an uncommon degree:

So it was when I met the children at Miss: Bishop's, and afterwards those at Mr. Simpson's.

I verily think, the spirit and behaviour of these two sets of children gradually affect the whole place; which now retains scarce anything of the brutality and savageness for which it was eminent some years ago.

In the evening we had"a watchnight at Kingswood.

The weather was exceeding rough: Yet the House was filled ; and few went away till after the noon of night.

Sun. 7.—I preached morning and evening, and took a solemn leave of the affectionate people.

Monday, 8.

Having taken the whole mail-coach on Saturday, I went to it on Monday between three and four; and found, to my great surprise, it was filled with other passengers; and the clerk faced me down, I had taken the coach for Sunday: But some of our friends speaking strong words, they thought good to provide us another coach; only it did not reach town quite so soon. I was, however, soon enough to meet a large congregation on Tuesday evening, and praise the Lord together.

Wed. 10.—I retired, and spent the rest of the week in answering letters, and preparing matter for the Magazine.

Sun. 14.—I preached in West-Street chapel morning and afternoon; and at St. Swithin's church in the evening. Monday, 15. I began a hittle tour through Oxfordshire.

I preached at Wallingford in the evening, with much enlargement of heart.

Mr. Pentycross called upon me in the morning.

Twesday, 16.

Calvinism and bitterness are fled away together, and we willingly gave each other the right hand of fellowship. About one

I preached at Oxford, to a very quiet, deeply serious congregation.

The House at Witney would nothing near contain the people in the evening: It was well filled at five on Wednesday morning. I dearly love this people; they are so simple of heart, and so much alive to God. After dinner we returned to Oxford.

Half an hour before the hour of preaching, a heavy rain began ; by this means the House was filled, and not overfilled.

I found great liberty of speech in enforcing the first and great commandment; and could not but hope there will be a great work of God here, notwithstanding all the wisdom of the world.

Thur. 18.—We went on to High-Wycomb.

The work of God is so considerably increased here, that although three VOUS LV:

REV. J. WESLEY'S

1787. galleries are added to the preaching-house, it would scarce contain the people.

Even at five in the morning, Friday, 19, it was throughly filled.

Never before was there so fair a prospect of doing good at this place.

I dinéd in London.

Sun. 21,—I preached in the morning at Spitalfields, with the usual success; in the afternoon at the new chapel, on the remarkable answer of Balaam to Balak's question. (Micah vi. 8.) How clear light had Balaam at that time!

But he soon turned back, and "loved darkness rather than light."

Mon. 22.—I went to Canterbury, and preached in the evening on the first and great commandment ; in the morning,

Tuesday, 23, on the second.

We then went on to Dover.

In the evening I strongly applied the parable of the Sower to a crowded audience.

Wednesday, 24.

I spoke equally plain in the morning.

About noon (after an intermission of fifteen years) I preached at Sandwich, to more than the House contained, on Luke ix. 62.

God applied his word to many hearts, so that I have at length a hope for Sandwich also.

In the evening I preached at Margate.

The word was quick and powerful.

So it was likewise, in the morning, Thursday, 25.

A good work has been wrought here since I was here before.

Here is now a lively, loving society, who adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour.

In returning to Canterbury, I called upon Mr. Kingsford, a man of substance as well as piety.

He informed me, "Seven years ago, I so entirely lost the use of my ankles and knees, that I could no more stand than a new-born child.

Indeed, IT could not lie in bed without a pillow laid between my legs, one of them being unable to bear the weight of the other,

I could not move from place to place, but on two crutches, All the advice I had profited me nothing.

In this state I continued above six years.

Last year I went on business to London, then to Bristol and Bath.

At Bath I sent for a Physician ; but before he came, as I sat reading the Bible, I thought, 'Asa sought to the Physicians, and not to God ; but God can do more for me than any Physician.'

Soon after I heard a noise in the street; and, rising up, found I could stand. Being much surprised, I walked several times about the room; then I walked into the Square, and afterwards on the Bristol road: And from that time I have been perfectly well, having as full a use of all my limbs as I had seven years ago."

Nov. 1787.] JOURNAL.

We had a comfortable opportunity in the evening, and early in the morning; and. I left Canterbury, Friday, 26, with a strong hope that the work of God will flourish here, as it has not done for many years.

In the evening I preached toa lovely congregation at Chatham; and on Saturday returned to London.

Mon. 29.—I looked over all the manuscripts which I had collected for the Magazine, destroyed what I did not think worth publishing, and corrected the rest.

Tuesday, 30. I went down to Miss Harvey's, at Hinxworth, in Hertfordshire.

Mr. Simeon, from Cambridge, met me there; who breathes the very spirit of Mr. Fletcher. The chapel was quite crowded in the evening.

I preached on that inexhaustible text, and with much liberty of spirit, "By grace are ye saved through faith."

In the morning, Wednesday, 31,1 preached on the Woman of Canaan; and in the afternoon went over to Mr.

Hick's, at Wrestlingworth, through such roads as no chaise could pass: So we had the pleasure of riding in a farmer's cart.

It was such a motion as I never felt before: But, to make amends, the church was so filled as I never had seen it; and I was enabled to speak with unusual plainness.

Surely some received the truth in the love thereof!

Thur. November 1.—I gave a fair reading to Dr. Gerard's "Essay on Taste."

I should have wondered, but that I had read his "Plan of Education ;" wherein he advises to read Logic last.

Such an advice could never have been given but by one that knew nothing about it.

Indeed, he has hardly a clear idea of anything.

Hence it was natural for him to produce this strange performance, wherein he talks prettily, but quite wide of the mark, stumbling at first setting ont; for genius is no more invention, than it is sense or memory.

Fri. 2.—I set out early, and about noon preached at Barnet, to a small, serious congregation.

I then went on to London.

Sat. 3.—I had a long conversation with Mr. Clulow, on that execrable Act, called the Conventicle Act.

After consulting the Act of Toleration, with that of the fourteenth of Queen Anne, we were both clearly convinced, that it was the safest way to license all our chapels, and all our Travelling Preachers, not as Dissenters, but simply "Preachers of the Gospel

;" and that no Justice, or Bench of Justices, has any authority to refuse licensing either the House or the Preachers.

2D2

40+,

REV. "J. WESLEY'S

[Nov. 1787.

Sun. 4.—The congregation at the new chapel was far larger than usual ; and the number of communicants was so great, that I was obliged to consecrate thrice. Monday, 5. In my way to Dorking, I read Mr. Duff's " Essay on Genius."

It is, beyond all comparison, deeper and more judicious than Dr. G.'s Essay on that subject.

If the Doctor had seen it, (which one can hardly doubt,) it is a wonder he would publish his Essay. Yet I cannot approve of his method.

Why does he not first define his term, that we may know what he is talking about? I doubt, because his own idea of it was not clear; for genius is not imagination, any more than it is invention.

If we mean by it a quality of the soul, it is, in its widest acceptation, an extraordinary capacity, either for some particular art or science, or for all; for whatever may be undertaken.

So Euclid had a genius for mathematics; Tully, for oratory: Aristotle' and Lord Bacon had an universal genius, applicable to everything.

The congregation was, as usual, large and serious.

But there is no increase in the society.

, So that we have profited nothing by having our service in the church-hours, which some imagined would have done wonders.

I do not know that it has done more good anywhere in England; in Scotland I believe it has.

Tues. 6.—I preached about noon at Mitcham. We preached here many years ago for some time; but despairing of doing any good there, totally left the place.

A year or two ago a spark fell upon it, which is now kindled into aflame.

So that the work of God is more lively here, than in any society near London.

I found more life than I expected, in the evening, among the poor people at Wandsworth, who have been long swallowed up in the cares of this world.

But as they have a little more business, so they have more ease for their souls ; and seem determined to recover the ground they had lost.

Fri. 9.—A friend offering to bear my expenses, I set out in the evening, and on Saturday, 10, dined at Nottingham.

The preaching-house (one of the most elegant in England) was pretty well filled in the evening.

Sunday, 11. At ten we had a lovely congregation; and a very numerous one in the afternoon.

But, I believe, the House would hardly contain one half of those that came to it.

I preached a charity sermon for the Infirmary, which was the design of my coming.

This is not a County Infirmary, but is open to all England ;

Dec. 1787. | JOURNAL,

yea, to all the world; and everything about it is so neat, so convenient, and so well ordered, that I have seen none like it in the three kingdoms.

Monday, 12. In the afternoon we took coach again, and on Tuesday returned to London.

Thur. 15.—Even at Poplar I found a remarkable revival of the work of God.

I never saw the preaching-house so filled before; and the power of the Lord seemed to rest on many of the hearers.

, Sun. 18.—We had, as usual, a large congregation and a comfortable opportunity at Spitalfields.

Monday, 19. I began the unpleasing work of visiting the classes.

I still continue to do this in London and Bristol, as well as in Cork and Dublin.

With the other societies, their respective Assistants supply my lack of service.

Sun. 25.—I preached two charity sermons at West-Street, in behalf of our poor children. Herein I endeavoured to warn them, and all that bring them up, against that English sin, ungodliness ; that reproach of our nation, wherein we excel all the inhabitants of the earth.

Thur. 29.—I preached at Mr. Edwards's, in Lambeth. How wonderfully does God fit people for their work!

Here Mrs.

Edwards, a person of no extraordinary natural abilities, teaches near a hundred children, and keeps them in as good, if not better, order, than most school-mistresses in the kingdom !

Fri. 30.—I met the Committee, to consider the state of our temporal circumstances. Weare still running backward. Some way must be found to make our income answer our expenses.

Sat. DecemBer 1.—I saw an uncommon instance of distress ; a gentlewoman who used to keep her coach, shut up with her four children in a dark dirty room, (her husband being imprisoned for debt,) without almost any of the necessaries of life.

No wonder if she had chose strangling rather than life.

Sun. 2.—I was pressed in spirit to warn our people, in strong terms, of the Laodicean spirit which had crept in among them.

They received the reproof ; and many began to stir up the gift of God that is in them, which immediately appeared from the very great increase of the morning congregations.

Tues. 4.—I retired to Rainham, to prepare another edition of the New Testament for the press. Wednesday, 5. I preached at Purfleet, to a deeply serious congregation, many of whom walk in the light of God's countenance, Thursday, 6. I

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[Dec. 1787. preached to a large congregation at Rainham.

I trust some good will be done here also.

Fri. 7.—I returned to London, and again considered what was to be done in our present temporal circumstances.

After much consultation, they desired me, 1. To appoint a few of our brethren to divide the town between them, and desire our brethren that were able to assist in this exigence: 2. That a collection should be made in all our preaching-houses for the same purpose.

Above three hundred pounds were raised by these means, whereby the whole difficulty was removed.

Sun. 9.—I went down at half-hour past five, but found no Preacher in the chapel, though we had three or four in the house: So I preached myself.

Afterwards, inquiring why none of my family attended the morning preaching, they said, it was because they sat up too late.

I resolved to put a stop to this ; and therefore ordered, that, 1. Every one under my roof should go to bed at nine; that, 2. Every one might attend the morning preaching: And so they have done ever since.

Mon. 10.—I was desired to see the celebrated wax-work at the Museum in Spring-Gardens: It exhibits most of the crowned heads in Europe, and shows their characters in their countenance.

Sense and majesty appear in the King of Spain; dulness and sottishness in the King of France; infernal subtlety in the late King of Prussia; (as well as in the skeleton Voltaire ;) calmness and humanity in the Emperor, and King of Portugal; exquisite stupidity in the Prince of Orange; and amazing coarseness, with everything that is. unamiable, in the Czarina.

In the evening I preached at Peckham to a more awakened congregation than ever I observed there before.

Thur. 13.—I preached in the evening at Miss Teulon's, in Highgate. I never saw such a congregation there before. Will there then be good done here at last?

Well; nothing is too hard for God !

Sun. 16.—After preaching at Spitalfields, I hastened to St. John's, Clerkenwell, and preached a charity sermon for the Finsbury Dispensary ; as I would gladly countenance every institution of the kind.

Tues. 18.—I retired to Newington, and hid myself for almost three days.

Friday, 21. The Committee proposed to me, 1, That families of men and women should sit together

March, 1788. ] JOURNAL,

in both chapels: 2. That every one who took a pew should have it as his own: Thus overthrowing, at one blow, the discipline which I have been establishing for fifty years !

Sat. 22.—I yielded to the importunity of a painter, and sat an hour and a half, in all, for my picture.

I think it was the best that ever was taken; but what is the picture of a man above fourscore ?

Mon. 24.—We had another meeting of the Committee ; who after a calm and loving consultation, judged it best, 1. That the men and women should sit separate still; and, 2. That none should claim any pew as his own, either in the new chapel, or in West-Street.

[N.B. A part of Mr. Wesley's Journal which should come in here, is lost or mislaid, and cannot be found. |

Fesruary 25, 1788.—I took a solemn leave of the congregation at West-Street, by applying once more what I had enforced fifty years before, " By grace are ye saved, through faith."

At the following meeting the presence of God, ina marvellous manner, filled the place. The next evening we had a very numerous congregation at the new chapel, to which I declared the whole counsel of God.

I seemed now to have finished my work in London.

If I see it again, well; if not, I pray God to raise up others, that will be more faithful and more successful in his work !

Thur. 28.—I set out in the mail-coach, and the next morning came to Bath.

Here I found a pleasing prospect:

The congregations are larger than ever.

The society is, at length, at unity in itself ; and, consequently, increases both in grace and number.

Sat. Marcu 1.—(Being Leap-year.) I considered, What difference do I find by an increase of years? I find, 1. Less activity ; I walk slower, particularly up-hill: 2. My memory is not so quick : 3. I cannot read so well by candle-light. But I bless God, that all my other powers of body and mind remain just as they were.

Sun. 2.—I preached at eleven, at half an hour past two, and at half-hour past five.

The first congregation was large, and so was the second; but the third was far the largest, filling every corner of the House.

And the power of God seemed to increase with the number of the people; insomuch that in the evening, while I was applying, "To me to live is

REV. J. WESLEY'S

[March, 1788.

Christ, and to dic is gain," the glory of the Lord seemed to overshadow the congregation in an uncommon manner: And I trust the impression then made upon rich and poor will not soon wear off.

Mon. 3.—I1 went on to Bristol, and having two or three quiet days, finished my sermon upon Conscience.

On Tuesday I gave notice of my design to preach on Thursday evening, upon (what is now the general topic) Slavery. In consequence of this, on Thursday, the House from end to end was filled with high and low, rich and poor. I preached on that ancient prophecy, " God shall enlarge Japhet.

And he shall dwell in the tents of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant." About the middle of the discourse, while there was on every side attention still as night, a vehement noise arose, none could tell why, and shot like lightning through the whole congregation.

The terror and confusion were inexpressible.

You might have imagined it was a city taken by storm.

The people rushed upon each other with the utmost violence; the benches were broke in pieces; and nine-tenths of the congregation appeared to be struck with the same panic.

In about six minutes the storm ceased, almost as suddenly as it rose ; and, all being calm, I went on without the least interruption.

It was the strangest incident of the kind I ever remember ; and I believe none can account for it, without supposing some preternatural influence. Satan fought, lest his kingdom should be delivered up.

We set Friday apart as a day of fasting and prayer, that God would remember those poor outcasts of men ; and (what seems impossible with men, considering the wealth and-power of their oppressors) make a way for them to escape, and break their chains in sunder.

Fri. 7.—I went over to Kingswood School, and found everything there in excellent order.

Sunday, 9. I preached at the Room, morning and afternoon, (Mr. Collins reading Prayers,) and about two at the School; though the House would very ill contain the congregation.

Monday, 10, and the three following days, I visited the classes; which contained (after many added, and many lost or removed) a little more than nine hundred members.

I wonder that, with such Preachers, there is so little increase. Dublin has outrun Bristol already :

So will Manchester, Sheffield, and even Birmingham soon, unless they stir themselves up before the Lord.

March, 1788.] JOURNAL.

Wed. 12.—I preached in the evening at a new place, in Little George-Street, the poorest part of the city ; and great was our rejoicing in the Lord among this willing people.

Sat. 15.—In the evening, having no other time, I preached once more in Temple church.

I had no thought of meddling with the controversy which has lately pestered this city ; till I read those words in the Second Lesson which threw me full upon it, " Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power."

I then thought it my duty to speak clearly and strongly upon that head.

Sun. 16.—I was invited by the Mayor, Mr. Edger, to preach in his chapel, and afterwards to dine with him at the Mansion-House.

Most of the Aldermen were at church, and a multitude of high and low; to whom I explained and applied that awful passage of Scripture,—the history of Dives and Lazarus.

Mon. 17.—I began my northern journey, in a mild, lovely morning.

In the evening I preached to so crowded an audience at Stroud, as I have not seen there for some years.

Tuesday, 18. I preached in Painswick at ten.

Here also we wanted room for the audience; and all were still as night. At six in the evening I began at Gloucester.

Here it seems the scandal of the cross (such is the will of God) is ceased.

High and low, rich and poor, flock together, and seem to devour the word.

I preached on building upon a rock, and spoke with all plainness.

Many, I believe, were cut to the heart; for it was a day of the Lord's power.

Wed. 19.—About noon I preached at Tewkesbury, where also, notwithstanding the market, the House was over-filled ; and the people were deeply attentive.

The work of God goes on steadily here.

More and more are continually convinced, and converted to God: But the preaching-house is far too small; so that many who came could not get in.

We went to Worcester in the afternoon, where also the House is far too small for the congregation.

The Methodists here have by well-doing utterly put to silence the ignorance of foolish men ; so that they are now abundantly more in danger by honour than by dishonour.

Thursday, 20.

I went to Stourport.

'Twenty years ago there was but one house here ; now there are two or three streets; and, as the trade swiftly increases, it will probably grow into a considerable

REV, J. WESLEY'S

(March, 1788, town.

A few years since Mr. Cowell largely contributed to the building of a preaching-house here, in which both Calvinists and Arminians might preach: But when it was finished, the Arminian Preachers were totally excluded.

Rather than go to law, Mr. Cowell built another House, both larger and more convenient.

I preached there at noon to a large congregation, but to a much larger in the evening.

Several Clergymen were present, and were as attentive as any of the people.

Probably there will be a deep work of God at this place.

Sat, 22.—I breakfasted at Mr. Lister's, in Kidderminster, with a few very serious and pious friends.

In the evening we had a Sunday congregation at Birmingham.

Here there is a glorious increase of the work of God.

The society is risen to above eight hundred; so that it is at present inferior to none in England, except those in London and Bristol.

Sun. 23.—We were greatly straitened for room, many being obliged to go away.

But I believe all that could squeeze in found it good to be there; for, both in the morning and afternoon, the power of God was present to heal.

And so indeed it was on the two following days; particularly on Tuesday evening, while I explained, " Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect ?"

Wed. 26.—I went on to Wednesbury, the mother-society of Staffordshire. But few of the old standers are left: I think but three, out of three hundred and fifteen.

However, a new generation is sprung up, though hardly equal to the former.

Thur. 27,—About noon I preached at Dudley, and with much liberty of spirit ; but with far more at Wolverhampton in the evening; the new House being sufficiently crowded.

What a den of lions was this town for many years!

But now, it seems, the last will be first.

Friday, 28. We came to our dear friends at Madeley.

Mrs. Fletcher's health is surprisingly mended; and one might take her nephew for a believer of seven years' standing ; he seems so well established. in the faith of the Gospel. The congregation was surprisingly large in the evening; and great was their solemn joy, while

I applied, "When Christ who is our life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory."

Sat. 29.—Having no other time, I went over to Salop, and spent an afternoon very agreeably.

The Room was so crowded in the evening as I never saw it before ; perhaps the more,

April, 1788.] JOURNAL.

by reason of two poor wretches who were executed in the afternoon.

It was given me to speak strong words, such as made the stout-hearted tremble.

Surely there is now, if there never was before, a day of salvation to this town also.

Sun. 30.—I returned to Madeley ; but we were distressed by the large concourse of people.

It was too cold to stand abroad ; and the church could in nowise contain the congregation.

But we could not help it: So as many as could got in ; the rest stood without, or went away.

The epistle led me to preach on the " Three that bear record in heaven," which proved seasonable for Mrs. Fletcher.

In the afternoon, I preached on, " This is the record, that God hath given unto us eternal life, and this life is in his Son."

Mon. 31.—Ahbout noon I preached at Stafford, to a large and. serious congregation ; and about six in the evening, at LaneEnd.

Our chapel not being able to contain one-third of the: congregation, they stood at the front of Mr. Myat's house, where they could all hear perfectly ; and though the wind was high, and extremely cold, none seemed to regard it.

Mr. Myat was mentioning a little circumstance which I think worth relating, for its oddness :—He had two cats with kitten at once; one of which was the mother of the other, and kittened three weeks before her.

But she would not suffer one of her kittens to suck at all, till it was almost starved.

The younger cat seeing this, took the kitten and suckled it till she kittened herself ; and afterwards suckled it. with her own kittens. Who can account for this ?

Tues. ApRiu 1.—We went on to Burslem, where the work of God still prospers exceedingly, Sinners—men, women, and children—are still convinced and converted to God every day ; and there are exceeding few that draw back, as they are much united in affection, and watch over each other in love.

In the evening, before the time of preaching came, the preaching-house was more than filled.

Finding it could not contain one half of the people, I ordered a table to be placed in the yard ; where they stood very patiently, though the wind was very high and very cold, Afterwards I spent a comfortable hour with the society, who completely filled the House.

Wed. 2.—This morning I finished Mr. Weston's ingenious « Dissertations on the Wonders of Antiquity ;" particularly the Darkness at our Lord's death, and the Pool of Bethesda.

And I quite agree with him, that the chief reason why these

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