THE  TENTH PART

 THE  JOURNAL

FROM  FEBRUARY   16,   1755,  TO  JUNE   16,   1758

VOL. IV

The question as to the relationship of Methodism to the Church of England, always present in Wesley's mind, was rapidly passing into a more acute stage. Whatever may have teen the case at a later period, in 1755 the two brothers were of one mind. They both with equal earnestness deprecated the tendency towards Dissent which so often revealed itself among the preachers. John and Charles Wesley at this time differed only as to future possibilities. John, with keener vision than Charles, saw that in a more or less remote future the Methodists might drift, or be ' thrust out.' Against suck a contingency it behooved him to prepare. Meantime, both by example and argument he sought to check the drift, and to minimize the practical difficulties of a situation which was becoming more and more painful.

The purpose of this note is not to discuss a many-sided question, but to emphasize the Leeds Conference of 1755 as a point of departure in an extremely important discussion, and to draw attention to those original sources of information which, when they shall have been rearranged in order of date, will more fully illuminate the Churchmanship of John Wesley and the attitude of the early Methodists towards all the Churches of the Reformation.

In a collection of Charles Wesley MSS.  now in the Conference Office there has recently been found a small volume which contains a much longer version of ' Reasons Against a Separation from the Church of'England'1'(Works, vol.  x11i. p.   22$.    The date is probably a late error). From internal evidence we may assume that this manuscript version is a copy by Charles Wesley's amanuensis of the original draft written by John Wesley in 1755 in connection with   the Leeds Conference.     This draft may be the ' manuscript' referred to by fackson (Life of C. W., vol. 11., p. 84.    See also below, p. 115).    Several copies of this clearly reasoned and popularly worded document were made at the time.     The one in  Charles  Wesley's note-book is entitled,' Ought we to separate from the Church of England?'    Another copy was sent to the Rev. Samuel Walker of Truro, and a third to the Rev. Thomas Adams of  Wintringham.    In the same handwriting is a copy of John   Wesley's   Minutes   on   the Leeds   Conference, including his closing admonition to the preachers; and copies, partly in   Charles   Wesley's handwriting, of the correspondence   between    Wesley,   Walker,   and Adams. There are also several letters in shorthand by Charles Wesley;  also shorthand Minutes of the  Conference of August  26-28.

THE  JOURNAL

From February 16,  1755, to June 16,   1758

1755. FEB. I6.[ The Sermon Register shows that, during the interval between the last date in Part IX. (Oct. 28, 1754) and the first in Part X. (Feb. 16, 1755), he preached as under :Sun. Nov. 3, 1754, West Street and Snowsfields; Mon. n, Wapping; Sun. 17, Snowsfields; Mon. 18, Foundery. Sun. Dec. I, Spitalfields Sat. 7, Snowsfields; Mon. 9, N.W. [New Wells); Sat. «I, Snowsfields; Sun. 22, Spitalfields; Mon. 23, Foundery; Thur. 26, Spitalfields; Tues. 31, Foundery. Wed. Jan. I, 1755, Spitalfields; Fri. 3, Foundery; Sat.4,Snowsfields; Sun.5,West Street and Foundery; Sun. 19, Snowsfields. Sat. Feb. 8, Snowsfields; Sun. 9, West Street and Foundery; Mon. 10, We. [It might be ' Wells' i.e. New Wells or Westminster, not West Street, which is always ' C' or ' Ch' or ' The Chapel']; Tues. n, Westminster]; Mon. 17, Foundery; Thur. 20, Foundery; Sun. 23, Spitalfields; Fri. 28, West Street.]-Having heard a confused account from a place near Camelford, in Cornwall, I wrote to a friend near it, and received the following answer :

According to your desire, I have inquired into the particulars of the late affair at Delabole Quarry. The rock is about thirty yards thick; but the most valuable part of the stone lies undermost.

There were nine partners who shared the advantage of this part of the Quarry. Being greedy of gain, they brought out as much of the under part as possible; and the rather because the time for which they had hired it was within a month of expiring.

On Monday, Dec. 2, William Lane, John Lane, William Kellow, and five more of the partners met in the morning and sent one of their numbers for Theophilus Kellow to come to work. He came, but was so uneasy he could not stay, but quickly returned home. William Kellow was sent for in haste, and went to look after his mare, which had cast her foal. The other seven continued laboring till twelve. All the workmen usually dine together; but these wrought on, when the rest withdrew, till in a moment they were covered with rocks of all sizes, falling about ten yards, some of which were thought to be three tons weight. William Lane had, some years since, known the love of God. He was sitting, cleaving stones, when the rock calved [' Calved,' for ' caved in,' is still dialect English in many parts, North Lincolnshire among the rest. See Murray's Dictionary, and Notts and Queries, 4th series, vol. x11. pp. 116 275.] in upon him, with a concave surface, which just made room for his body ; only one edge of it light upon him, and broke one of his thigh-bones. When they dug away the stones he was earnestly praying to God, and confessing his unfaithfulness. As soon as he looked up he began exhorting all around instantly to make their peace with God. His bone being set, he soon recovered both his bodily strength and the peace and love which he had lost. Another, who sat close by his side, was covered over and killed at once. Close to him John Lane (son of William) was standing: he was thrown upon his face, he knew not how, and a sharp-edged stone pitched between his thighs ; on which a huge rock fell, and was suspended by it, so as to shadow him all over. The other five were entirely dashed in pieces. Doth not God save those that trust in Him?

APRIL I, Tues.[ The Sermon Register gives a few dates in March as follows: March 16, West Street; March 30, 22, 24 and 29, Bristol; March 21, Freshford; and March 25 and 30, Kingswood. ]-I rode from Bristol to a village named Kingswood, [Cf. above, p. 80.]

 near Wotton-under-Edge. The church was exceeding full, and the congregation was serious and wellbehaved ; and I had since the satisfaction of being informed that many of them are much changed, at least in their outward behavior.

            Wed. 2.-With some difficulty we reached Stanley. There has been lately a great awakening in this country. I never saw such a congregation here before, notwithstanding the wind and rain ; and all present seemed to receive the word with gladness and readiness of mind. There are a solid, serious people in these parts, who stand their ground against all opposition. The warmest opposers are the Jacobites, who do not love us, because we love King George. But they profit nothing ; for more and more people ' fear God, and honor the King.'

We rode on Thursday in the afternoon, through heavy rain and almost impassable roads, to Evesham ; and on Friday the 4th to Birmingham, a barren, dry, uncomfortable place. Most of the seed which has been sown for so many years the ' wild boars' have ' rooted up'; the fierce, unclean, brutish, blasphemous Antinomians have utterly destroyed it. And the mystic foxes have taken true pains to spoil what remained, with their new gospel. Yet it seems God has a blessing for this place still; so many still attend the preaching, and He is eminently present with the small number that is left in the society.

April. 1756, In the Midlands

Sat. 5.-I preached at Wednesbury, and at eight on Sunday morning. But the great congregation assembled in the afternoon, as soon as the service of the church was over, with which we take care never to interfere. A solemn awe seemed to run all through the company in the evening, when I met the society. We have indeed preached the gospel here ' with much contention,' but the success overpays the labor.

            Mon. 7.-I was advised to take the Derbyshire road to Manchester. We baited at a house six miles beyond Lichfield.[ Alrewas seems to  fulfill all the conditions.    It is en route to Barton-under Needwood and Hayfield.] Observing a woman sitting in the kitchen, I asked, ' Are you not well?' and found she had just been taken ill (being on her journey), with all the symptoms of an approaching pleurisy. She was glad to hear of an easy, cheap, and (almost) infallible remedy-a handful of nettles, boiled a few minutes, and applied warm to the side. While I was speaking to her an elderly man, pretty well dressed, came in. Upon inquiry, he told us he was traveling, as he could, towards his home near Hounslow, in hopes of agreeing with his creditors, to whom he had surrendered his all. But how to get on he knew not, as he had no money, and had caught a tertian ague. I hope a wise Providence directed this wanderer also, that he might have a remedy for both his maladies.

Soon after we took horse we overtook a poor man creeping forward on two crutches. I asked whither he was going. He said toward Nottingham, where his wife lived. But both his legs had been broke while he was on shipboard, and he had now spent all his money. This man likewise appeared exceeding thankful, and ready to acknowledge the hand of God.

In the afternoon we came to Barton Forge, where a gentleman of Birmingham had set up a large iron-work, and fixed five or six families, with a serious man over them, who lost near all he had in the great riot at Wednesbury. Most of them are seeking to save their souls. I preached in the evening, not to them only, but to many gathered from all parts, and exhorted them to love and help one another.

Tues. 8.-I had designed to go straight on to Hayfield ; but one from Ashbourne [Thomas     Hanby,     afterwards     a preacher,  tells an interesting   story of the beginnings of Methodism at or near Ashbourne, in Thomas Thompson's tollhouse, where Miss Beresford was converted, and at Mr. Kurd's, a gentleman farmer's.   Ashbourne is near the head of Dovedale. See Meth. .AV. Jan. 29, 1903 ; cf. Meth. Mag. 1805, p. 97; also pp. 600 and 606.] pressed me much to call there, which accordingly I did at seven in the morning, and preached to a deeply serious congregation. Seventeen or eighteen then desired to join in a society, to whom I spoke severally, and was well pleased to find that near half of them knew the pardoning love of God. One of the first I spoke to was Miss [Judith] Beresford-a sweet, but short-lived flower! [See fully below, p. 204; also Wesley's letter to H. A.   Roe (Works, vol. x11i. P7S-).]

Through much hail, rain, and wind we got to Mr. Baddiley's,[ Mr. Baddiley is described as 'a sort of second Grimshaw.' See Works, vol, x11i. p. 209. Tyerman quotes a manuscript letter from Baddiley to Wesley, in which he tells a tragic story of a child who, protesting against the defiant dancing in his father's alehouse, lost his life (vol. 11. p. 195, 196). In a letter, dated ' Chipley, Oct. 22, 1748,' John Bennet tells Wesley of Mr. Baddiley's conversion : ' The minister of Hayfield, a church town within two miles of my father's, is lately converted, and preaches the pure gospel of Jesus Christ. The town is up in arms against him already, breathing out slaughter. Not withstanding he is as bold as a lion.' After reading the first volume of Wesley's sermons, weighing their ' orthodoxy by the standard of Primitive Christianity," he writes warmly approving, and John Bennet copies his letter (Meth. Ret. Winter No. 1902, p. 30).] at Hayfield, about five in the afternoon. His favorite daughter died some hours before we came, such a child as is scarce heard of in a century. All the family informed me of many remarkable circumstances, which else would have seemed incredible. She spoke exceeding plain, yet very seldom ; and then only a few words. She was scarce ever seen to laugh, or heard to utter a light or trifling word. She could not bear any that did, nor any one who behaved in a light or unserious manner. If any such offered to kiss or touch her, she would turn away, and say,' I don't like you." If her brother or sisters spoke angrily to each other, or behaved triflingly, she either sharply reproved (when that seemed needful) or tenderly entreated them to give over. If she had spoke too sharply to any, she would humble herself to them, and not rest till they had forgiven her. After her health declined she was particularly

pleased with hearing that  hymn  sung, ' Abba,  Father,'   and would be frequently singing that line herself: Abba, Father, hear my cry!

April 1755, Manchester and Liverpool

On Monday, April 7, without any  struggle,  she  fell asleep, having lived two years and six months.[ These two lines omitted in 1st ed.]

Wed. 9.-In the evening I preached at Manchester.[ He wrote to Blackwell respecting his proof-sheets which he wished to send to Mr. Belchier (Works, vol. x11. p. 182). Mr. Perronet also was helping him with proof-reading. Tyerman says these were the proofs of the Notes on. the New Testament.] The mob was tolerably quiet as long as I was speaking, but immediately after raged horribly. This, I find, has been their manner for some time. No wonder, since the good Justices encourage them.[ 1st ed. gives ' the Justice encourages."]

Thur. 10.-I rode to Hayfield again, to bury Mr. Baddiley's child. Abundance of people were gathered together, and I found uncommon liberty in preaching. Who would have looked for such a congregation as this in the Peak of Derbyshire?

I returned to Manchester the next day, and had a quiet congregation both that evening and the following.

Sun. 13.-I met the society at five, and showed them wherein I feared they had grieved the Spirit of God, and provoked Him to deliver them to be thus outraged by ' the beasts of the people.' I then rode to Hayfield once more, where Mr. B[Baddiley] read prayers, and preached a solemn and affecting sermon relative to the late providence. In the afternoon I again found great liberty of spirit in applying those awful words,' What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?'

Mon. 14.-I rode by Manchester (where I preached about twelve) to Warrington.[ See W.H.S. vol. v11i. pp. 57 and 81 for articles on Wesley's visits to Warrington.]

 At six in the morning, Tuesday the 15th, I preached to a large and serious congregation, and then went on to Liverpool,[ When Wesley was a boy the population of Liverpool was about 8,000.   At the time of this visit it was 18,500.   Like Bristol, it was largely indebted for its initial prosperity to the slave-trade.] one of the neatest, best-built towns I have seen in England. I think it is full twice as large as Chester;most of the streets are quite straight. Two-thirds of the town, we are informed, have been added within these forty years. If it continue to increase in the same proportion, in forty years more it will nearly equal Bristol.[ For early Methodism in Liverpool, see W. H.S. vol. i. p. 104] The people in general are the most mild and courteous I ever saw in a seaport town ; as indeed appears by their friendly behavior, not only to the Jews and Papists who live among them, but even to the Methodists (so called). The preaching-house is a little larger than that at Newcastle. It was thoroughly filled at seven in the evening, and the hearts of the whole congregation seemed to be moved before the Lord, and before the presence of His power.[ For the first society-room in Cable   Street, and for Pitt Street Chapel, &c see Tyerman's   Wesley, vol. 11. p.  197.]

Every morning, as well as evening, abundance of people gladly attended the preaching. Many of them, I learned, were dear lovers of controversy; but I had better work. I pressed upon them all ' repentance toward God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.'

Sun. 20.-I explained, after the evening preaching, the rules of the society, and strongly exhorted the members to adorn their profession by all holiness of conversation.

Mon. 21.-I rode to Bolton. Being now among those who were no ' strangers to the covenant of promise,' I had no need to lay the foundation again, but exhorted them to ' rejoice evermore.' Their number is a little reduced since I was here before; and no wonder, while the sons of strife are on every

side-some for Mr. Bennet, and some for Mr. Wh------.[ The reference is probably to Whitefield, or possibly Wheatley. ]    The

little flock, notwithstanding, hold on their way, looking straight to the prize of their high calling.

April 1755, In Yorkshire

Thur. 24.-We rode in less than four hours the eight miles (so called) to New Hall Hey.[ He lodged with Mr. Robert Cunliffe (Afelh. in Rossendalc, p. 84). ] Just as I began to preach, the sun broke out, and shone exceeding hot on the side of my head. I found, if it continued, I should not be able to speak long, and lifted up my heart to God. In a minute or two it was covered with clouds, which continued till the service was over. Let any who please call this chance; I call it an answer to prayer.

Fri. 25.-About ten I preached near Todmorden.[ At Mankinholes (see Meth. Rec. April 18, 1912). The 'delightful vale' of the next paragraph is the Halifax Road Valley.] The people stood, row above row, on the side of the mountain. They were rough enough in outward appearance; but their hearts were as melting wax.

One can hardly conceive anything more delightful than the vale through which we rode from hence. The river ran through the green meadows on the right; the fruitful hills and woods rose on either hand. Yet here and there a rock hung over, the little holes of which put me in mind of those beautiful lines:

Te, Domine, intonsi monies, te saxa loquentur Summa Deum, dum montis amat juga pendulus hircus, Saxorumque colit latebrosa cuniculus antra! [' Thee, O Lord, the leafy mountains, Thee, the highest rocks, speak [the idea suggested is that of rustling mountain woods] as God, whilst the poised wild goat loves the mountain ridges, and the coney hides in the coverts of the cliffs- the caverns.' This is from a paraphrase of Psalm civ. by Dr. John Burton, Wesley's friend (see above, vol. I. p. 28), who introduced him to Oglethorpe. Intonsi monies is a reminiscence of Virgil's Eel. v. 63. The lines are repeated below, April 1786, where he attributes them to Dr. Burton. Cf. W.H.S. vol. v. p. 29.]

At three in the afternoon I preached at Heptonstall, on the brow of the mountain. The rain began almost as soon as I began to speak. I prayed that, if God saw best, it might be stayed till I had delivered His word. It was so, and then began again. But we had only a short stage to Ewood.[ Then in possession of Mr. Grimshaw's son (J. U. Walker's Methodism in Halifax, p. 93).]

Sat. 26.-I preached at seven to a large and serious congregation, and again at four in the afternoon. When I began, in a meadow near the house, the wind was so high I could hardly speak. But the winds too are in God's hand ; in a few minutes that inconvenience ceased, and we found the Spirit of God breathing in the midst of us, so that great was our rejoicing in the Lord.

            Sun. 27.-A little before I took horse I looked into a room as I walked by, and saw a good old man bleeding almost to death. I desired him immediately to snuff vinegar up his nose, and apply it to his neck, face, and temples. It was done, and the blood entirely stopped in less than two minutes.

The rain began about five, and did not intermit till we came to Haworth; notwithstanding which a multitude of people were gathered together at ten. In the afternoon I was obliged to go out of the church, abundance of people not being able to get in. The rain ceased from the moment I came out till I had finished my discourse. How many proofs must we have that there is no petition too little, any more than too great, for God to grant?

May 1755, The Twelfth Conference

Mon. 28.-I preached at Keighley, on Tuesday[On April 29 he wrote to Blackwell {Works, vol. x11. p. 182), and preached at Birstall.] at Bradford, which is now as quiet as Birstall. Such a change has God wrought in the hearts of the people since John Nelson was in the dungeon here. My brother met me at Birstall in the afternoon.[ Wesley, in a  letter to his wife, refers to this meeting, adding ' I pity his poor wife, if now upon the road.   There she Is   likely   to   stick   till   the  warm weather comes.   The roads are almost impassable for   wheels'   (C.   Wesley's Journal, vol. 11. p. 201).]

Wed. 30.-We began reading together A Gentleman's Reasons for his Dissent from the Church of England.[ Written by Micaiah Towgood in the form of three letters to John White, B. D., Fellow of St. John's College, Cambridge, and vicar of Ospringe, near Faversham, who wrote a defence of the Established Church.    Towgood's book was published in 1746.    See Green's Bibliography, p. 107 ; also below, p. 247.] It is an elaborate and lively tract, and contains the strength of the cause; but it did not yield us one proof that it is lawful for us (much less our duty) to separate from it.

May 1, Thur.-I finished the Gentleman's Reasons (who is a dissenting minister at Exeter). In how different a spirit does this man write from honest Richard Baxter! The one dipping, as it were, his pen in tears, the other in vinegar and gall. Surely one page of that loving, serious Christian weighs more than volumes of this bitter, sarcastic jester.[ On May 2 he preached at Halifax, and on Monday the 5th at Leeds.]

Sun. 4.- I preached at one, and again at five, to some thousands at the foot of the hill. I believe this hollow would contain sixty thousand people, standing one above another ; and a clear, strong voice might command them all. Although, if they stood upon a plain, I doubt whether any human voice could be distinctly heard by half the number.

Tues. 6.-Our Conference began at Leeds.[ The Twelfth Conference, the Minutes of which are said to be ' in the handwriting of John Jones,' apparently from notes taken by John Wesley (Octavo Minutes, vol. I. p. 708). This was the largest Conference yet held. Sixtythree preachers were present-twelve ' half itinerants,' fifteen ' our chief local preachers." Wesley's address delivered at the close of the Conference has been preserved-a most trenchant pastoral. Tyerman gives a long account of the discussion and correspondence respecting separation from the Church, with many of Charles Wesley's letters, vol. 11. pp. 200-11 ; see also Charles Wesley's letter to his wife (Journal, vol. 11. No. xxxiv.); John Wesley to Charles (Works, vol. x11. pp. Il6-i8),"and below, June 6, 1755. During this visit to Leeds Wesley and Mr. Crook, perpetual curate of Hunslet, exchanged visits. The latter had preached two sermons in the Leeds parish church which Wesley strongly approved. They were afterwards published. He was attacked, bitterly and with misrepresentation of facts, by Sedgewick, master of the Grammar School, in The Leeds Intelligencer. In a spirited reply he incidentally gives information of interest (see W.H.S. vol. 11. pp. 115-18). The Conference was held in the ' Boggard House,' Wesley living for the week in the Preachers' House in ' Boggard Close.' See also Henry Moore's Life of Wesley, vol. 11. pp. 194, 195. The Sermon Register gives an appointment at Manchester also on May 6 (!) and at Birstall on the loth.]

 The point on which we desired all the preachers to speak their minds at large was,' Whether we ought to separate from the Church?' Whatever was advanced on one side or the other was seriously and calmly considered ; and on the third day we were all fully agreed in that general conclusion-that (whether it was lawful or not) it was no ways expedient.[ On May  10 he wrote  to   Samuel Furly (Christian Advocate, 1907, p. 487).]

Mon. 12.-We rode (my wife and I) to Northallerton.

Tues. 13.-I rode on to Newcastle. I did not find things here in the order I expected. Many were on the point of leaving the Church, which some had done already; and, as they supposed, on my authority! Oh how much discord is caused by one jarring string! How much trouble by one man who does not walk by the same rule and agree in the same judgement with his brethren!

Sun. 18 (being Whit Sunday).-I preached about eight at Gateshead Fell, and returned before the service at St. Andrew's began. At the sacrament many found an uncommon blessing, and felt God has not yet left the Church.

In the following week I spake to the members of the society severally, and found far fewer than I expected prejudiced against the Church; I think not above forty in all. And I trust the plague is now stayed.

Wed. 21.-I preached at Nafferton, near Horsley, about thirteen miles from Newcastle. We rode chiefly on the new western road, which lies on the old Roman wall. Some part of this is still to be seen, as are the remains of most of the towers, which were built a mile distant from each other, quite from sea to sea. But where are the men of renown who built them, and who once made all the land tremble? Crumbled into dust! Gone hence, to be no more seen, till the earth shall give up her dead!

June 1755, A Strange Phenomenon

Thur. 22.-Mr. Wardrobe,[ Whitehead (Life of Wesley, vol. I. p. 285 «.) gives an account of this devoted minister, whom Wesley so greatly admired. See a letter of his in Arm. Mag. 1778, p. 375, inviting Wesley to Hexham in 1746. For his death see below, p. 164.]

minister of Bathgate, in Scotland, preached at the Orphan House in the evening, to the no small amazement and displeasure of some of his zealous countrymen.

Sat. 24.-I preached at Sheephill. The cold drove us into the house ; which being much crowded, was as hot as an oven. Riding afterwards in the keen north wind, it seized upon my breast immediately. However, I made a shift to preach at Chester [Chester-le-Street.    It is unfortunate]; and then went on to Sunderland.

Sun. 25.-I preached at eight, though not without pain, not having recovered my voice. We had a useful sermon at church. As soon as the sacrament was over I preached in the High Street (it being Trinity Sunday), upon ' There are three that bear record in heaven'; and my voice was so restored that I could command the whole congregation, though it was exceeding large.

Mon. 26.-I rode to Morpeth, and preached in the marketplace to a small but quiet congregation. In the evening I preached in the new room at Alnwick; but I could scarce be heard, rny voice being very weak. In the morning it was stronger; so I preached with more ease at five, and then returned to Newcastle.[ On Monday, May 26, he preached before leaving Sunderland. During May he preached, on a day not specified, at Seacroft in Yorkshire.]

Thur. 29.-I had the pleasure of seeing Mr. Gillies,[ Cf. above, p. 62.] from Glasgow. He preached for me in the evening, to the still greater astonishment of the warm men, who ' could never have thought it of him!' Shall we not have more and more cause to say:

Names, and sects, and parties fall;

Thou, O Christ, art all in all?

Fri. 30.-I walked to the Infirmary. It is finely situated on the top of the hill, and is the best ordered of any place of the kind I have seen in England. Nor did I ever see so much seriousness in a hospital before. None were laughing or talking lightly ; many were reading the Bible; and when I talked to and prayed with one, the whole ward listened with

deep attention.

June 2, Mon.-I left Newcastle, and came to Durham, just as Jacob Rowell had done preaching, or rather, attempting to preach ; for the mob was so noisy that he was constrained to break off. I reached Osmotherley in the evening, and found a large congregation waiting. I preached immediately, God renewing my strength and comforting my heart.[ The Osmotherley society book records, ' Laid out for Mr. John Wesley, wife   and  daughter,    Mr.    Shent,  and Mr. Downes, 5*.']

Here I inquired, of eye and ear witnesses, concerning what lately occurred in the neighbourhood.[ See W.M. Mag. 1843, pp. 206-8. Wesley contributed this account to the London Mag., Gentleman's Mag., The Public Advertiser, and Scots Mag.]

On Tuesday, March 25 last, being the week before Easter, many persons observed a great noise near a ridge of mountains in Yorkshire, called Black Hamilton. It was observed chiefly in the south-west side of the mountain, about a mile from the course where the Hamilton races are run ; near a ridge of rocks, commonly called Whiston Cliffs, or Whiston-White-Mare ; two miles from Sutton, about five from Thirsk.

The same noise was heard on Wednesday by all who went that way. On Thursday, about seven in the morning, Edward Abbot, weaver, and Adam Bosomworth, bleacher, both of Sutton, riding under Whiston Cliffs, heard a roaring (so they termed it), like many cannons, or loud and rolling thunder. It seemed to come from the cliffs, looking up to which they saw a large body of stone, four or five yards broad, split and fly off from the very top of the rocks. They thought it strange, but rode on. Between ten and eleven a larger piece of the rock, about fifteen yards thick, thirty high, and between sixty and seventy broad, was torn off and thrown into the valley.

About seven in the evening, one who was riding by observed the ground to shake exceedingly, and soon after several large stones or rocks, of some tons weight each, rose out of the ground. Others were thrown on one side, others turned upside down, and many rolled over and over. Being a little surprised, and not very curious, he hasted on his way.

On Friday and Saturday the ground continued to shake and the rocks to roll over one another. The earth also clave asunder in very many places, and continued so to do till Sunday mofning.

Being at Osmotherley, seven miles from the cliffs, on Monday, June 2, and finding Edward Abbot there, I desired him, the next morning, to show me the way thither. I walked, crept, and climbed, round and over great part of the ruins. I could not perceive, by any sign, that there was ever any cavity in the rock at all; but one part of the solid stone is cleft from the rest, in a perpendicular line, and smooth, as if cut with instruments. Nor is it barely thrown down, but split into many hundred pieces, some of which lie four or five hundred yards from the main rock.

The ground nearest the cliff is not raised, but sunk considerably beneath the level; but at some distance it is raised in a ridge of eight or ten yards high, twelve or fifteen broad, and near a hundred long. Adjoining to this lies an oval piece of ground, thirty or forty yards in diameter, which has been removed, whole as it is, from beneath the cliff, without the least fissure, with all its load of rocks, some of which were as large as the hull of a small ship. At a little distance is a second piece of ground, forty or fifty yards across, which has been also transplanted entire, with rocks of various sizes upon it, and a tree growing out of one of them. By the removal of one or both of these, I suppose, the hollow near the cliff was made.

All round them lay stones and rocks, great and small; some on the surface of the earth, some half sunk into it, some almost covered, in a variety of positions. Between these the ground was cleft asunder in a thousand places: some of the apertures were nearly closed again, some gaping as at first. Between thirty and forty acres of land, as is commonly supposed (though some reckon above sixty), are in this condition.

On the skirts of these I observed, in abundance of places, the green turf (for it was pasture land), as it were pared off, two or three inches thick, and wrapped round like sheets of lead. A little farther it was not cleft or broken at all, but raised in ridges five or six foot long, exactly resembling the graves in a churchyard.  Of these there is a vast number.

That part of the cliff from which the rest is torn lies so high and is now of so bright a colour that it is plainly visible to all the country round, even at the distance of several miles. We saw it distinctly not only from the street in Thirsk, but for five or six miles, as we rode towards York. So we did likewise in the Great North Road, between Sandhutton and Northallerton.

But how may we account for this phenomenon? Was it effected by a merely natural cause? If so, that cause must either have been fire, water, or air. It could not be fire ; for then some mark of it must have appeared, either at the time, or after it. But no such mark does appear, nor ever did; not so much as the least smoke, either when the first or second rock was removed, or in the whole space between Tuesday and Sunday.

It could not be water ; for no water issued out when the one or the other rock was torn off, nor had there been any rains some time before. It was, in that part of the country, a remarkably dry season. Neither was there any cavity in that part of the rock wherein a sufficient quantity of water might have lodged. On the contrary, it was one single, solid mass, which was evenly and smoothly cleft in

sunder.

There remains no other natural cause assignable, but imprisoned air.    I  say imprisoned;  for, as  to  the fashionable  opinion that the exterior air is the grand agent in earthquakes, it is so senseless, unmechanical, unphilosophical a dream as deserves not to be named but to be exploded.    But it is hard to conceive how even imprisoned air could produce such an effect.    It might, indeed, shake, tear, raise, or sink the earth ; but how could it cleave a solid rock?    Here was not room for a quantity of it sufficient to do anything of this nature; at least, unless it had been suddenly and violently expanded by fire, which was not the case.     Could a small quantity of air, without that violent expansion, have torn so large a body of rock from the rest to which it adhered in one solid mass?    Could it have shivered this into pieces, and  scattered  several  of those pieces some hundred yards round? Could it have transported  those promontories  of earth,  with  their incumbent load,  and  set   them  down,  unbroken,  unchanged,  at a distance?   Truly I am not so great a volunteer in faith as to be able to believe this.    He that supposes this must suppose air to be not only a very strong (which we allow) but a very wise agent; while it bore its charge with so great caution as not to hurt or dislocate any part of it.

What, then, could be the cause? What, indeed, but God, who arose to shake terribly the earth; who purposely chose such a place, where there is so great a concourse of nobility and gentry every year; and wrought in such a manner that many might see it and fear; that all who travel one of the most frequented roads in England might see it, almost whether they would or no, for many miles together.[ Whiston Cliff was a noted place for training and matching racehorses. An anonymous writer in The Gentleman's Mag., professedly after inquiry, denied the facts in toto. Wesley replied March 8, 175^1 reaffirming the facts as ' punctually true, having been an eye-witness of every particular of it.' John Langhorne, then a private tutor near Thirsk, afterwards translator of Plutarch's Lives, wrote fully confirming Wesley's statements. (Tyerman's Life, vol. 11. p. 213; W.M. Mag. 1843, p. 206; also Works, vol. xi., in Thoughts on the Earthquake at Lisbon.)] It must likewise for many years, maugre all the art of man, be a visible monument of His power, all that ground being now so encumbered with rocks and stones that it cannot be either ploughed or grazed. Nor will it serve any use but to tell all that see it, ' Who can stand before this great God?'

June 17550, From York to Sheffield

Hence we rode to Thirsk, where I met the little society, and then went on to York. The people had been waiting for some time, so I began preaching without delay, and felt no want of strength, though the room [This was the room in Pump Yard, Newgate. It held 120 persons, and was registered for public worship (Methodism in York, pp. 80, 81).] was like an oven through the multitude of people.

Fri. 6.-I read Dr. Sharp's[Archdeacon of Northumberland. See W.H.S. vol. iv. p. 108.]

 elaborate tracts on the Rubrics and Canons. He justly observes, with regard to all these: (I) that our governors have power to dispense with our observance of them; (2) that a tacit dispensation is of the same force with an explicit dispensation ; (3) that their continued connivance at what they cannot but know is a tacit dispensation. I think this is true ; but, if it be, he has himself answered his own charge against the Methodists (so called). For, suppose the Canons did forbid field-preaching, as expressly as playing at cards and frequenting taverns, yet we have the very same plea for the former as any clergyman has for the latter. All our governors, the king, the archbishop, and bishops, connive at the one as well as the other.

Sat. 7.-One of the residentiaries sent for Mr. Williamson, who had invited me to preach in his church, and told him, ' Sir, I abhor persecution, but if you let Mr. Wesley preach it will be the worse for you.' He desired it, nevertheless; but I declined.[ Charles Wesley preached there twice in October 1756.]

Perhaps there is a providence in this also. God will not suffer my little remaining strength to be spent on those who will not hear me but in an honorable way.

Sun. 8.-We were at the Minster in the morning, and at our parish church in the afternoon. The same gentleman preached at both ; but though I saw him at the church, I did not know I had ever seen him before. In the morning he was all life and motion, in the afternoon he was as quiet as a post. At five in the evening the rain constrained me to preach in the ' oven' again. The patience of the congregation surprised me. They seemed not to feel the extreme heat, nor to be offended at the close application of those words,' Thou art not far from the kingdom of God.'[See Arm. Mag. 1779, p. 319 : letter from Rev. John Baddiley, rector of Hayfield, Derbyshire, to J. W. re the Separation debates at ' your last Conference in Leeds.' On p. 368, John Wesley to Walker of Truro, dated Bristol, Sept. 24, 1 Difficulties with regard to the Church.' On p. 371, Thos. Adams (Wintringham, Oct. 10,1755):' On leaving the Church'; reply to this (Lond. Oct. 31,1755) P-373VOL. IV

On p. 641, letter from Walker to Wesley, 'Truro, Aug. 16, 1756": 'Advices concerning the Church.' Wesley's reply, 'Kingswood, Sept. 3, 1756,' p. 644.]

Mon. 9.-I took my leave of the richest society, number for number, which we have in England. I hope this place will not prove (as Cork has for some time done) the Capua [For same allusion see below, p. 332.] of our preachers. When I came to Epworth the congregation was waiting. So I went immediately to the Cross, and great was our glorying in the Lord.

Tues. 10.-I met the stewards of the Lincolnshire societies, who gave us an agreeable account of the work of God in

every place.

Wed.11.-I preached in a meadow at Misterton to a larger congregation than ever met there before.

Thur. 12.-At eight I preached at Clay worth, and at Rotherham in the evening. Here likewise was such a number of people assembled as was never before seen in that town. Is not this one clear proof of the hand of God that, although the novelty of this preaching is over, yet the people flock to hear it in every place far more than when it was a new thing?

Fri. 13.-In the evening I preached at Sheffield.[ Sheffield was part of the Epworth Circuit until August 1757It included also Gainsborough, Grimsby, Barrow, Doncaster, Rotherham, ' and divers other circuits.']   In the morning I examined the members of the society, and was agreeably surprised to find that though none had visited them since I did it myself two years ago, yet they were rather increased than diminished in number, and many of them growing in grace.[ On Friday the 13th he preached again at Rotherham, and on the I4th at Barley Hall as well as Sheffield.]

July 1755, In Norwich

Mon. 16.-I preached in the evening at Nottingham,[ Harwood's History of Wtslcyan Methodism in Nottingham (pp. 8-43), describes the sequence of events which rooted Methodism here. Cf. ' Howe's Society,' p. 13, with 'John How, Nottingham' in Hutton's Memoirs, p. 231. ] and on Thursday afternoon reached London. From a deep sense of the amazing work which God has of late years wrought in England, I preached in the evening on those words (Ps. cxlv11. 20), ' He hath not dealt so with any nation'; no, not even with Scotland or New England. In both these God has indeed made bare His arm, yet not in so astonishing a manner as among us. This must appear to all who impartially consider (I) the numbers of persons on whom God has wrought; (2) the swiftness of His work in many, both convinced and truly converted in a few days ; (3) the depth of it in most of these, changing the heart as well as the whole conversation ; (4) the clearness of it, enabling them boldly to say,' Thou hast loved me; Thou hast given Thyself for me'; (5) the continuance of it. God has wrought in Scotland and New England, at several times, for some weeks or months together; but among us He has wrought for near eighteen years together, without any observable intermission.

Above all, let it be remarked that a considerable number of the regular clergy were engaged in that great work in Scotland; and in New England above a hundred, perhaps as eminent as any in the whole province, not only for piety, but also for abilities, both natural and acquired ; whereas in England there were only two or three inconsiderable clergymen, with a few young, raw, unlettered men; and these opposed by wellnigh all the clergy, as well as laity, in the nation. He that remarks this must needs own, both that this is a work of God and that He hath not wrought so in any other nation.[ On Thursday, June 19, he preached at West Street. On the zoth he wrote from London to Charles Wesley ( Works, vol. x11. p. 116), still on the burning question of Separation. On Sunday the 22nd he again preached at West Street.]

Mon. 23.-I was considering what could be the reasons why the hand of the Lord (who does nothing without a cause) is almost entirely stayed in Scotland, and in great measure in New England. It does not become us to judge peremptorily, but perhaps some of them may be these: (I) Many of them became ' wise in their own eyes'; they seemed to think they were the men, and there were none like them. And hence they refused God the liberty of sending by whom He would send, and required Him to work by men of learning, or not at all. (2) Many of them were bigots, immoderately attached either to their own opinions or mode of worship. Mr. Edwards himself was not clear of this. But the Scotch bigots were beyond all others, placing Arminianism (so called) on a level with Deism, and the Church of England with that of Rome. Hence they not only suffered in themselves and their brethren a bitter zeal, but applauded themselves therein, in showing the same spirit against all who differed from them as the Papists did against our forefathers. (3) With pride, bitterness, and bigotry, selfindulgence was joined ; self-denial was little taught and practiced. It is well if some of them did not despise, or even condemn, all self-denial in things indifferent, as in apparel or food, as nearly allied to Popery. No marvel, then, that the Spirit of God was grieved. Let us profit by their example.

Tues. 24.-Observing in that valuable book, Mr. Gillies's Historical Collections, [See   above,   p.   62,   and    W.H.S. vol. iv. p. 108.] the custom of Christian congregations in all ages to set apart seasons of solemn thanksgivings, I was amazed and ashamed that we had never done this, after all the blessings we had received, and many to whom I mentioned it gladly agreed to set apart a day for that purpose.[ On June 28 he wrote another letter confident in the preachers' loyalty to the Church, to Charles Wesley (Works, vol. x11. p. 118) ; also one (the first of six) to Mr. Richard Tompson, on the doctrineof Assurance. See Works, vol. x11. p. 466 ; Tyerman, vol 11. p. 214. On the same day (June 28) and on Sunday the 29th he preached at West Street.]

Mon. 30.-I set out for Norwich, and came thither the next evening. As a large congregation was waiting, I could not but preach, though weary enough.[ At a place called the Foundery, near Orford Hill (Lorkin's Methodism in Norwich, p. 2).] The two following days I spoke to each member of the society; and on Friday, JULY 4, took

horse again, though how I should ride five miles I knew not. But God so strengthened both man and beast that I reached Bury the same night, and London the next, far less tired than when I set out from Norwich.[ On July 4 he preached at Bury St. Edmunds, and on Saturday the 5th at Bishop Bonner's.]

Monday the 7th was our first day of solemn thanksgiving for the numberless spiritual blessings we have received. And I believe it was a day which will not soon be forgotten.[ On Thursday the loth he preached at Bishop Bonner's, and on Sunday the 13th at Moorfields.]

Thur, 17.-One spent the evening with us who is accounted both a sensible and a religious Mon. What a proof of the Fall! Even with all the advantages of a liberal education, this person, I will be bold to say, knows just as much of heart religion, of scriptural Christianity, the religion of love, as a child three years old of algebra. How much, then, may we suppose a Turk or heathen to know? Hardly more ; perhaps just as much.[ On Monday the 2ist he preached at West Street and Wapping.]

Tues. 22.-To oblige a friendly gentlewoman, I was a witness to her will, wherein she bequeathed part of her estate to charitable uses and part, during his natural life, to her dog Toby. I suppose, though she should die within the year, her legacy to Toby may stand good, but that to the poor is null and void by the statute of Mortmain![ So not very correctly, though commonly, called 9 Geo. 11. c. 36: ' No sums of money . . . shall be given . . . in trust for any charitable uses . . . unless by deed . . . twelve calendar months at least before the death of such donor ... to be enrolled within . . . six months after execution.'The term ' charitable uses' is applicable only to gifts for what are called public charities, the objects of which are not particular individuals, but a class or the public in general.]

Sun. 27 [On July 25 he wrote the second letter to Richard Tompson (Works, vol. x11, p. 467), noting 'concessions' in the Minutes with regard to ' assurance' and ' perfection.']

-I buried the body of Ephraim Bedder,[ See above, p. 48] once a pattern to all that believed ; but, from the time he left off fasting and universal self-denial, in which none was more exemplary for some years, he sunk lower and lower, till he had neither the power nor the form of religion left. In the beginning of his illness he was in black despair. But much prayer was made for him. Toward the close of it it pleased God to restore to him the light of His countenance. So, Itrust, his backsliding only cost him his life, and he may yet live with God for ever.[ On Saturday, Aug. 2, he preached at West Street.]

July 1765., A Letter from  Virginia

            I was much affected about this time by a letter sent from a gentleman in Virginia.[ Rev. Samuel Davies, of Hanover (in Virginia),    See below, for other letters, pp. 149, 194.] Part of it runs thus :

The poor Negro slaves here never heard of Jesus, or His religion, till they arrived at the land of their slavery in America, whom their masters generally neglect, as though immortality was not the privilege of their souls in common with their own.   These poor Africans are the principal objects of my compassion, and,  I think, the most proper subject of your charity.

The inhabitants of Virginia are computed to be about three hundred thousand, and the one half of them are supposed to be negroes. The number of these who attend on my ministry at particular times is uncertain, but I think there are about three hundred who give a stated attendance. And never have I been so much struck with the appearance of an assembly as when I have glanced my eye on one part of the house, adorned (so it has appeared to me) with so many black countenances, eagerly attentive to every word they heard, and some of them covered with tears. A considerable number of them, about a hundred, have been baptized, after they had been fully instructed in the great truths of religion, and had evidenced their sense of them by a life of the strictest virtue. As they are not sufficiently polished to dissemble with a good grace, they express the sensations of their hearts so much in the language of simple nature, and with such genuine indications of artless [1st ed. ' earth-less.'] sincerity, that it is impossible to suspect their professions, especially when attended with a suitable behavior.

Mr. Todd, minister of the next congregation, has near the same number under his care, and several of them also, he informs me, discover the same seriousness. Indeed, there are multitudes of them in various parts who are eagerly desirous of instruction. They have generally very little help to read; and yet, to my agreeable surprise, sundry of them, by dint of application in their very few leisure hours, have made such a progress that they are able to read their Bible, or a plain author, very intelligibly. But few of their masters will be at the expense of furnishing them with books. I have supplied them to the utmost of my ability. They are exceedingly delighted with Watts's Songs, and I cannot but observe that the negroes, above all of the human species I ever knew, have the nicest ear for music. They have a kind of ecstatic delight in psalmody; nor are there any books they so soon learn, or take so much pleasure in, as those used in that heavenly part of divine worship.

Aug. 3, Sun.-I dined with one who lived for many years with one of the most celebrated beauties in Europe. She was also proud, vain, and nice to a very uncommon degree. But see the end! After a painful and nauseous disease, she rotted away above ground, and was so offensive for many days before she died that scarce any could bear to stay in the room.

Mon. 4.-Hearing my old friend Mr. H------s was now a

beggar, and forsaken of all, I called (after a separation of sixteen years) at his lodgings to offer him any service in my power. I was pleasingly surprised to find him reading the Bible! But still I am afraid all is not right, for the hand of God seems to be upon him still, and his mind is so hurried he can settle to nothing. Oh what a pattern of holiness and stability of mind was this very man till he was stolen away by the men whose ' words are smoother than oil'! But were they not to him very swords? [On Monday, Aug. 4, he preached at West Street, and on the 5th at Deptford. ]

Wed. 6.-I mentioned to the congregation another means of increasing serious religion, which had been frequently practised by our forefathers and attended with eminent blessing, namely, the joining in a covenant to serve God with all our heart [1st ed. ' with all our soul' only.] and with all our soul. I explained this for several mornings following, and on Friday many of us kept a fast unto the Lord, beseeching Him to give us wisdom and strength to promise unto the Lord our God and keep it.[ On Thursday, Aug. 7, he preached at Bishop Bonner's, and on Sunday the 10th in Moorfields.]

Mon. 11.-I explained once more the nature of such an engagement, and the manner of doing it acceptably to God. At six in the evening we met for that purpose at the French church in Spitalfields. After I had recited the tenor of the covenant proposed, in the words of that blessed man, Richard Alleine, all the people stood up, in testimony of assent, to the number of about eighteen hundred persons. Such a night I scarce ever saw before. Surely the fruit of it shall remain for ever.

Sat. 16.-I buried the remains of a rough, honest, friendly man, Captain Edward Stotesbury.[ Charles Wesley, Thursday, June 7, 1750, wrote : ' I carried Sally to see our old friends at Newington Green. It is remarkable that the first time Mrs. Stotesbury ever saw her she said within herself, " That person is to be my minister's wife." ' Is this the unnamed familyat Newington that provided a quiet retreat for Wesley when he had literary work on hand? Charles Wesley wrote an elegy on Mrs. Stotesbury when she died, March 17, 1759 : ' Friendly, faithful soul, adieu' (C.Wesley'sJournal,vol.11. p. 352).] But the lion was become a lamb before God took him to Himself.

1. Bonner's Hall, 'Near Hackney' (see p. 101)

2. Zoar Chapel, Southwark (see p. 140)

Aug. 1785., In Cornwall

Sun. 17.-I took leave of the congregation in Moorfields by applying those awful words,' It is appointed for men once to die,' and early in the morning set out for Cornwall. In the evening I preached to a sleepy congregation at Reading on ' It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God,' and to much such another on Tuesday evening at Salisbury on ' Harden not your hearts.'

On Wednesday the 20th, at noon, I preached at Shaftesbury to a much more lively people. In the afternoon both my fellow traveller and I were fairly worn out. We betook ourselves to prayer, and received strength. Nor did we faint any more till, on Friday the 22nd, we reached Plymouth Dock. And I found myself far less weary then than on Monday, when I came to Colebrook.

Having spent two days comfortably, and I hope usefully, on Monday the 2 5th I rode over the mountains, close by the sea, to Looe, a town near half as large as Islington, which sends four Members to the Parliament! And each county in North Wales sends one! At Fowey a little company met us, and conducted us to Luxulyan. Between six and seven I preached in what was once the courtyard of a rich and honourable man ; but he and all his family are in the dust, and his very memory is almost perished. The congregation was large and deeply serious ; but it was still larger on Tuesday evening, and several seemed to be cut to the heart. On Wednesday they flocked from all parts. And with what eagerness did they receive the word! Surely many of these last will be first.

Thur. 28.-I preached at St. Mewan. I do not remember ever to have seen the yard in which I stood quite full before, but it would not now contain the congregation: many were obliged to stand without the gate. At five in the morning I preached at St. Austell1 to more than our room could contain. In the evening I was at St. Ewe. One or two felt the edge of God's sword and sank to the ground, and indeed it seemed as if God would suffer none to escape Him-as if he both heard and answered our prayer:

Dart into all the melting flame

Of love, and make the mountains flow.

Sat. 30.-As I was riding through Truro one stopped my horse and insisted on my alighting. Presently two or three more of Mr. Walker's [Rev. Samuel Walker. ' Evangelical opinions, an awakening ministry, and great ministerial success.' See W.M. Mag. 1847, p. 1099, and Tyerman's Wtsby, vol, 11. p. 207.] society came in, and we seemed to have been acquainted with each other many years; but I was constrained to break from them. About five I found the congregation waiting in a broad, convenient part of the street in Redruth. I was extremely weary, and our friends were so glad to see me that none once thought of asking me to eat or drink ; but my weariness vanished when I began to speak. Surely God is in this place also.

Sun. 31.-Understanding there were many present who did once run well, I preached at eight (the rain ceasing just in time) on ' How shall I give thee up, Ephraim?' Many endeavoured, but in vain, to hide their tears. I was agreeably surprised at church to hear the prayers read, not only with deliberation, but with uncommon propriety. At one the congregation was nearly double to what it was in the morning, and all were still as night. Surely these are patient hearers. God grant they may be fruitful ones!

At five I preached in Gwennap to several thousands, but not one of them light or inattentive. After I had done the storm arose, and the rain poured down till about four in the morning. Then the sky cleared, and many of them that feared God gladly assembled before Him.[ The following brief and painfully graphic letter, written on this date from Redruth, shows the kind of irritations which, coupled with jealousies, were straining to breaking-point the relations between two persons who ought never to have become husband and wife. To Mr. Blackwell, In Change Alley, London.

REDRUTH, Aug. 31,1755.

Dear Sir,

In my last journey to the North [see Journal, May «z], all my patience was put to the proof again and again, and all my endeavours to please, yet without success. In my present journey I leap as broke from chains. I am content with whatever entertainment I meet with, and my companions are always in good humour, 'because they are with me.' This must be the spirit of all who take journeys with me. If a dinner ill drest, a hard bed, a poor room, a shower of rain, or a dusty road will put them out of humour, it lays a burden upon me greater than all the rest put together. By the grace of God I never fret. I repine at nothing. I am discontented with nothing. And to hear persons at my ear fretting and murmuring at everything is like tearing the flesh off my bones,

I see God sitting upon His throne and ruling all things well. Although, therefore, I can bear this also, to have His government of the world continually found fault with-for in blaming the things which He alone can alter we in effect blame Him-yet it is such a burden to me as I cannot bear without pain, and I bless God when it is removed. The doctrine of a particular providence is what exceeding few persons understand, at least not practically, so as to apply it to every circumstance of life. This I want, to see God acting in everything, and disposing all for His own glory and His creatures' good. I hope it is your continual prayer that you may see Him, and love Him, and glorify Him with all you are and all you have. Peace be with you all!

Your affectionate Servant,

J. Wesley]

SEPT. I, Mon.-I preached at Penryn to abundantly more than the house could contain.

Tues. 2.-We went to Falmouth.[ Our own room' at Falmouth, on Smithick Hill. The society removed later to Porhan Street. In 1791 a new chapel was built. The present chapel (1912) is on the same site.] The town is not now what it was ten years since. All is quiet from one end to the other. I had thoughts of preaching on the hill near the church, but the violent wind made it impracticable, so I was obliged to stay in our own room. The people could hear in the yard likewise, and the adjoining houses, and all were deeply attentive.

Wed. 3.-At four Mrs. M.[ See above, vol. in. p. 190. Mrs. M. is believed to have been Mrs. Maddern, the woman in Falmouth who received him from the mob into her house.] came into my room, all in tears, and told me she had seen, as it were, our Lord standing by her, calling her by her name, and had ever since been filled with joy unspeakable. Soon after came her sister, in almost the same condition, and afterwards her niece, who likewise quickly melted into tears and refused to be comforted. Which of these will endure to the end? Now, at least, God is among them.

After preaching again to a congregation who now appeared ready to devour every word, I walked up to Pendennis Castle, finely situated on the high point of land which runs out between the bay and the harbour, and commanding both. It might easily be made exceeding strong; but our wooden castles are sufficient.

In the afternoon we rode to Helston, once turbulent enough, but now quiet as Penryn. I preached at six on a rising ground about a musket-shot from the town. Two drunken men strove to interrupt; but one soon walked away, the other leaned on his horse's neck and fell fast asleep.

What has done much good here is the example of W-----T------. He was utterly without God in the world when his father died and left him a little estate, encumbered with huge debt. Seven or eight years ago he found peace with God. He afterwards sold his estate, paid all his debts, and with what he had left furnished a little shop. Herein God has blessed him in an uncommon manner. Meantime all his behavior is of a piece, so that more and more of his neighbours say, ' Well, this is a work of God!'

Thur. 4.-In the evening heavy rain began just as I began to give out the hymn, but it ceased before I named my text. I spoke very plain, and it seemed to sink into many hearts, as they showed by attending at five in the morning, when we had another happy and solemn hour.

About noon, Friday Vnz 5th, I called on W. Rowe, in Breage, in my way to Newlyn. ' Twelve years ago,' he said, ' I was going over Gulval Downs, and I saw many people together, and I asked what was the matter, and they told me a man was going to preach. And I said, " To be sure it is some mazed Mon." But when I saw you I said, " Nay, this is no mazed Mon." And you preached on God's raising the dry bones, and from that time I could never rest till God was pleased to breathe on me and raise my dead soul.'

I had given no notice of preaching here, but, seeing the poor people flock from every side, I could not send them empty away. So I preached at a small distance from the house, and besought them to consider our ' great High-Priest, who is passed through into the heavens.' And none opened his mouth,

for the lions of Breage too are now changed into lambs. That they were so fierce ten years ago is no wonder, since their wretched minister told them from the pulpit (seven years before I resigned my fellowship) that 'John Wesley was expelled the College for a base child, and had been quite mazed ever since; that all the Methodists, at their private societies, put out the lights," &c., with abundance more of the same kind. But a year or two since it was observed he grew thoughtful and melancholy, and, about nine months ago, he went into his own necessary house-and hanged himself.

When we came to Newlyn we were informed that a strong, healthy man was, the morning before, found dead in his bed. Many were startled, so I endeavoured to deepen the impression by preaching on those words, ' There is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the grave, whither thou

goest.'

Sat. 6.-In the evening I preached at St. Just. Except at Gwennap, I have seen no such congregation in Cornwall. The sun (nor could we contrive it otherwise) shone full in my face when I began the hymn ; but just as I ended it a cloud arose, which covered it till I had done preaching. Is anything too small for the providence of Him by whom our very hairs are numbered?

Sun. 7.-Last year a strange letter, written at Penzance, was inserted in the public papers.[ See Gentleman's Mag., 1754, p. 482.]

 To-day I spoke to the two persons who occasioned that letter. They are of St. Just parish, sensible men, and no Methodists. The name of one is James Tregear, of the other Thomas Sackerly. I received the account from James two or three hours before Thomas came, but there was no material difference. In July was twelvemonth, they both said, as they were walking from St. Just church-town toward Sancreed, Thomas, happening to look up, cried out,' James, look, look! What is that in the sky?' The first appearance, as James expressed it, was three large columns of horsemen, swiftly pressing on, as in a fight, from south-west to north-east, a broad streak of sky being between each column. Sometimes they seemed to run thick together, then to thin their ranks. Afterwards they saw a large fleet of three-mast ships in full sail toward the Lizard Point. This continued above a quarter of an hour; then, all disappearing, they went on their way. The meaning of this, if it was real (which I do not affirm), time only can show.

I preached at eight in the morning and five in the afternoon,[ At Penzance.] and then hastened to St. Ives ; but we did not reach it till between nine and ten, so I delayed visiting Mr. K.[ We can hardly doubt that this is John Knill, whose 'Pyramid,' and a legacy providing for annual dancing around it, are so well known in St. Ives. He was horn in 1733, and would at this time be twenty-two. He was articled to Robert Kitchen, of Penzance, solicitor, and possibly had not, in 1755, left this office for London. He returned to St. Ives as agent for the Earl of Buckinghamshire, and died in 1811. Nearly every prominent man in St. Ives came into the vortex of the Methodist movement. K[nill']s madness opened Wesley's way into his uncle's, the mayor's, family. See letter to Blackwell, Works, vol. x11. p. 184. See especially J. Hobson Matthews's History of the parishes of St. Ives, Lelant, Towednack, and Zennor.] till the morning. He is a young attorney who for some time past frequently attended the preaching. On Saturday morning he fell raving mad. I never saw him till this morning. He sung, and swore, and screamed, and cursed, and blasphemed as if possessed by legion; but as soon as I came in he called me by my name and began to speak. I sat down on the bed, and he was still. Soon after he fell into tears and prayer. We prayed with him, and left him calm for the present.

Tues. 9.-I desired as many of our brethren as could to observe Wednesday the loth as a day of fasting and prayer. Just as we were praying for him (we were afterwards informed) he left off raving, and broke out,' Lord, how long? Wilt Thou hide Thy face for ever? All my bones are broken. Thy wrath lieth heavy upon me : I am in the lowest darkness, and in the deep. But the Lord will hear: He will rebuke thee, thou unclean spirit: He will deliver me out of thy hands.' Many such expressions he uttered for about half an hour, and then raved again.[ On Wednesday   the   loth  Wesley preached at Lelant.]

            Thur. 11.-He was more outrageous than ever, but while we were praying for him in the evening he sunk down into a sound sleep, which continued for ten hours; nor was he furious any more, although   the   time of deliverance was  not come.[ On Sept. 12 he wrote to Blackwell (Works,\o\. x11.p. i83),and to Christopher Hopper (Orphan House, p. 103). The Blackwell letter is especially interesting for its information about three notable persons, namely: Michael Fenwick; Mrs. Wesley, into whose hands a packet intended for Charles Perronet accidentally fell-' it contained a few lines which I had writ to Mrs. Lefevre, in answer to a letter,' &c. ; and ' a. young gentleman, nephew to the present mayor,' who was the Mr. K[nill] above-mentioned.]

Sat. 13.-I preached once more at St. Just, on the first stone of their new society-house.  [The second chapel, 40 ft. by 28 ft. {W.M.Mas. 1833, p. 874.)]

 In the evening, as we rode to Camborne, John Pearce of Redruth was mentioning a remarkable incident. While he lived at Helston, as their class was meeting one evening, one of them cried, with an uncommon tone, ' We will not stay here, we will go to' such a house, which was in a quite different part of the town. They all rose immediately and went, though neither they nor she knew why. Presently, after they were gone, a spark fell into a barrel of gunpowder which was in the next room, and blew up the house. So did God preserve those who trusted in Him, and prevent the blasphemy of the multitude.

Sun. 14.-I preached about eight, at [Carn Brea], to a very numerous congregation ; and I believe God spoke to the hearts of many-of backsliders in particular. Soon after ten we went to Redruth church. A young gentlewoman in the next pew, who had been laughing and talking just before, while the Confession was reading seemed very uneasy, then screamed out several times, dropped down, and was carried out of church. Mr. Collins [See above, vol. l11. p. 191.] read prayers admirably well, and preached an excellent sermon on ' Christ also suffered, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.'

At one I preached on faith, hope, and love. I was surprised at the behavior of the whole multitude. At length God seems to be moving on all their hearts. About five I preached at St. Agnes, where all received the truth in love, except two or three, who soon walked away. Thence I rode on to Cubert. At noon I was much tired; but I was now as fresh as in the morning.

Mon. 15.-We walked an hour near the sea-shore, among those amazing caverns, which are full as surprising as Poole's Hole, or (any other in the Peak of Derbyshire. Some part of the rock in these natural vaults glitters as bright and ruddy as gold [Pope's arbour was adorned with these Cornish stones.]; part is a fine sky-blue; part green; part enamelled, exactly like mother-of-pearl; and a great part, especially near the Holy Well[About one and a half miles northwest of the parish church. A full account of this famous well is given in the History of Cornwall. Borlase also mentions the spar. Southey celebrates another Cornish Holy Well, that of St. Keyne's.] (which bubbles up on the top of a rock, and is famous for curing either scorbutic or scrofulous disorders), is crusted over, wherever the water runs, with a hard, white coat, like alabaster.

At six in the evening I preached at Port Isaac. The next day I rode to Camelford, and preached in the market-place about six, on 'Ye must be born again.' Some were much afraid there would be disturbance; but the whole congregation was quiet and attentive.

Thur. 18.-Just as we came in at Launceston the heavy rain began. Between five and six I preached in a gentleman's dining-room, capable of containing some hundreds of people. At five in the morning I preached in the Town Hall, and soon after took my leave of Cornwall.

Fri. 19.-In the evening I reached North Molton ; but, being wet and tired, and the people not having notice, I did not preach till the next morning. A few, I found, stand steadfast here also, though a neighbouring gentleman has threatened them much unless they will leave this way, has turned many out of their work or farms, and headed the mob in person.[ See Charles Wesley's letter (Journal, vol. 11. p. 221) : ' Mr Robarts was the

first that planted the gospel in this place.']

On Saturday evening I preached at Tiverton to a wellestablished people.

Sun. 21.-I rode to Cullompton,[ The ride from Tiverton; church service ; preaching, probably out of doors, at five indoors; meeting the society; writing a long, plain, practical letter which seems to have saved a faulty preacher, John Trembath (Works, vol. x11. p. 251)-compare letter written five years later-this was a fair day's work for a convalescent.] where the minister preached an excellent practical sermon. At one I preached on the parable of the Sower, and about five in the markethouse at Tiverton. The congregation was larger than for some years, yet all behaved as though they really desired to save their souls.

Mon. 22.-It rained the greater part of the day, which lessened the congregation at Charlton.

Tues. 23.-We walked up to Glastonbury Tower,[ On the top of Glastonbury Tor, 500 feet high.] which a gentleman is now repairing. It is the steeple of a church, the foundation of which is still discernible. On the west side of the tower there are niches for images, one of which, as big as the life, is still entire.[ St. Michael holding in his hands a pair of scales.] The hill on which it stands is extremely steep, and of an uncommon height; so that it commands the country on all sides, as well as the Bristol Channel. I was weary enough when we came to Bristol,[ Sept. 24, Bristol, letter to Rev. Mr. Walker (Works, vol. x11i. p. 193), on the question of separation, clearly stating the arguments for it urged in the Leeds Conference, his own difficulty in answering, and the dilemma as to permitting or appointing lay preachers. As to the doctrine and liturgy of the Established Church, and also the unlawfulness of separation, he has no doubt. As he puts it to Mr. Adams two months later: ' We will not go out: if we are thrust out, well.' The series of letters-four to Mr. Walker and one to Mr. Adams-is worth careful study.] but I preached till all my complaints were gone, and I had now a little leisure to sit still, and finish [Wesley began his Notes on the New Testament Jan. 6, 1754, and finished his

task soon after Sept. 23,1755. The volume was published in London as a quarto of 759 pages, price eighteen shillings. Five editions were issued during Wesley's life, with corrections and additions. The Dr. Heylyn (not the more celebrated Peter Heylyn) to whose Theological Lectures he acknowledges indebtedness, was the man whom Wesley heard in St. Mary-le-Strand on Whit Sunday, 1738, and whom he assisted at the Holy Communion. See above, vol. I. p. 463-4.] the Notes on the New Testament?

Oct. 1755, In the West

OCT. 3, Fri.-I rode over to Pill, a place famous from generation to generation, even as Kingswood itself, for stupid, brutal, abandoned wickedness. But what is all the power of the world and the devil, when the day of God's power is come? Many of the inhabitants now seem desirous of turning from the power of Satan to God.[ On Saturday the 4th he preached in Bristol.]

Sun. 5.-I preached on the south-west side of Bristol.[ Bedminster. He afterwards specifies The Green and the Paddock as open-air preaching-places.]    I suppose a considerable part of the congregation had hardly ever heard a sermon in the open air before ; but they were all (rich and poor) serious and attentive. No rudeness is now at Bristol.

Thur. 9.[ On Oct. 8 he wrote to Christopher Hopper (Orphan House,  p. 104) : also to  Paul Greenwood (W.H.S. vol. v11. p. 20).]-I preached on the Green, near Pill, to a large and serious congregation. It rained most of the time; but none went away, although there were many genteel hearers.[ On Friday the loth he preached in Bristol.]

Mon. 13.-I preached, about noon, at Shepton Mallet, and in the evening at Coleford, where the congregation is so increased that they must enlarge the house.[ See above, vol. 11i. p. 161.]

Tues. 14.-About one I preached near Bradford, and again in the evening.

Wed. 15.-I preached at Bath. Even here a few are joined together, and hope they shall be scattered no more.[ Oct.  16, Bristol, is the date of the PS. to the Introd. to Primitive Physick (Works, vol. xiv. p. 316).]

I dined with some serious persons in a large, stately house standing on the brow of a delightful hill.[ Certainly Prior   Park,   not  Comhe

Grove of Sept. 17-19, 1764. In Hunt's LifeofWarburton, prefixed to Works, vol. I. p. 50, of Prior Park Hunt says : ' In so agreeable, or rather splendid a retreat Warburton enjoyed health, affluence, and leisure; the best company when he could partake of it.'] In this paradise they live in ease, in honour, and in elegant abundance. And this they call retiring from the world! What would Gregory Lopez have called it?

In the evening the society met at Bristol. I had desired again and again that no person would come who had not calmly and deliberately resolved to give himself up to God. But I believe not ten of them were wanting, and we now solemnly and of set purpose, by our own free act and deed, jointly agreed to take the Lord for our God. I think it will not soon be forgotten ; I hope not to all eternity.[ On Friday the 17th he preached at Kingswood.]

[Sun. 19.-I preached once more in Stokes Croft, to a deeply serious congregation.][ Insertion from 1st ed.   Why omitted in later editions is not known.]

Mon. 20.-I left Bristol, and, taking several societies in the way, I on Thursday the 23rd preached at Reading. Several soldiers were there, and many more the next night, when I set before them ' the terrors of the Lord.[ On Tuesday the 2ist he preached at Bray, on Wednesday the 22nd at Salisbury and Westcombe, and on Friday the 24th at Bearfield.] And I scarce ever saw so much impression made on this dull, senseless people.

Nov. 1755, London and Essex

Sat. 25.- I reached London, notwithstanding all the forebodings of my friends, in at least as good health as I left it.

Sun. 26.-I entered upon my London duty, reading prayers, preaching, and giving the sacrament at Snowsfields in the morning; preaching and giving the sacrament at noon in West Street Chapel; meeting the leaders at three; burying a corpse at four; and preaching at five in the afternoon. Afterwards I met the society, and concluded the day with a general love feast.

Mon. 27.-We set out for Leigh, in Essex [See Meth. Rec. April 21, 1898.]; but, being hindered a little in the morning, the night came on, without either moon or stars, when we were about two miles short of Rayleigh. The ruts were so deep and uneven that the horses could scarce stand, and the chaise was continually in danger of overturning ; so that my companions thought it best to walk to the town, though the road was both wet and dirty. Leaving them at Rayleigh, I took horse again. It was so thoroughly dark that we could not see our horses' heads; however, by the help of Him to whom the night shines as the day, we hit every turning ; and, without going a quarter of a mile out of our way, before nine came to Leigh.

Wed. 29.-1 returned to London.[ And preached at Bishop Bonner"s.] In my scraps of time, on this and two or three other days, I read over (what I had often heard much commended) Lord Anson's Voyage[A Voyagt Round the World, 1740-4.VOL.  IV Published in 1748.   The 'historian' was Benjamin Robins, F.R.S.] What pity he had not a better historian!-one who had eyes to see and courage to own the hand of God.[ On Oct. 31 he wrote a letter to Rev. Thomas Adams {Works, vol. x11i. p. 207) defining the Methodist position in relation to the Church of England. On Nov. 3 he preached at Wapping.]

Nov. 5, Wed.-Mr. Whitefield called upon me.  Disputings are now no more ; we love one another, and join hand in hand to promote the cause of our common Master.

In the afternoon I buried the remains of Samuel Larwood,[ See above, p. 23.] who died of a fever on Sunday morning, deeply convinced of his unfaithfulness, and yet hoping to find mercy. He had lately taken and repaired a building in Southwark, called by the venerable men who built it, Zoar.[ Zoar Street preserves the name. The chapel stood on the north side, near the west end, and the site is now tovered by a block of model dwellings. It was originally a Presbyterian meeting house, and, tradition    affirms, was preached in by John Bunyan. Old and New London, vol. vi. p. 40, says Zoar became first a brewery, then a factory. See W.H.S. vol. v11. p. HO; also above, p. 127. ] His executor offering it to me on the evening of Friday the 7th, that solemn day which we observed 'with fasting and prayer for our King.and country, I preached there to a large and quiet congregation ; but most of them appeared wild enough : and such were we, till grace made the difference.

            Mon. 10.-I preached at the Wells [And at West Street. For the Wells see above, p. 93.]; and I did not wonder that God gave an uncommon blessing to those who then assembled in His name, considering the difficulties they had broke through. The frost was very severe, accompanied with such a fog as perhaps the oldest man there never saw before. The lamps could not be seen across the street, and hardly the ground, by those who had lights in their hands. Many lost their way when they were just at their own doors. And it was almost as hard to breathe as to see. How easy it is for God to punish a sinful nation, even without employing an arm of flesh!

Mon. 17.-As we were walking towards Wapping the rain 'poured down with such violence that we were obliged to take .shelter till it abated. We then held on to Gravel Lane, in many parts of which the waters were like a river. However, we got on pretty well till the rain put out the candle in our lantern. We then were obliged to wade through all, till we came to the chapel-yard. Just as we entered it a little streak of lightning appeared in the south-west. There was likewise a small clap of thunder, and a vehement burst of rain, which rushed so plentifully through our shattered tiles that the vestry was all in a float. Soon after I began reading prayers the lightning flamed all round it, and the thunder rolled just over our heads. When it grew louder and louder, perceiving many of the strangers to be much affrighted, I broke off the prayers, after the Collect, ' Lighten our darkness, we beseech Thee,

            O  Lord,' and  began  applying   ' The Lord  sits above the water-flood ; the  Lord remains a King for ever.'    Presently the lightning, thunder, and rain ceased, and we had a remarkably calm evening.

It was observed that exactly at this hour they were acting Macbeth in Drury Lane, and just as the mock-thunder began the Lord began to thunder out of heaven. For a while it put them to a stand ; but they soon took courage, and went on. Otherwise it might have been suspected that the fear of God had crept into the very theatre!

Tues. 18.-We had a solemn watch-night at Zoar.

Wed. 26.-Being much importuned thereto, I wrote Serious Thoughts on the Earthquake at Lisbon?directed, not as I designed at first, to the small vulgar, but the great-to the learned, rich, and honourable heathens, commonly called Christians.

Dec. 1755, In London

Dec. 2, Tues.-I received a remarkable letter,[ The earthquake took place on Nov. I, 1755. A large part of the city was destroyed, and over 30,000 lives were lost. The Serious Thoughts soon ran into six editions. See Works, vol. xi. pp. 1-13 ; Green's Bibliog. No. 171.] part of which I have here subjoined:

            It may seem strange, sir, that I, whom you have no personal knowledge of, should write with the freedom I am now going to take. But, I trust you desire as much to instruct as I to be instructed. I have long labored under a disease which comes the nearest to that which is named scepticism. I rejoice at one time in the belief that the religion of my country is true; but how transient my joy! While my busy imagination ranges through nature, books, and men, I often drop into that horrible pit of Deism, and in vain bemoan my fall. The two main springs which alternately move my soul to these opposite opinions are, first, Can it be, that the great God of the boundless universe, containing many thousand better worlds than this, should become incarnate here, and die on a piece of wood? There I lose my belief of Christianity.

            But on the other hand I think, Well, let me examine the fitness of things which Deism boasts of. And certain it is I discern nothing but beauty and wisdom in the inanimate parts of the creation. But how is the animate side of nature? It shocks me with powerful cruelty and bleeding innocence. I cannot call the earth (as Fontenelle does) 'a great rolling globe covered over with fools,' but rather a great rolling globe covered over with slaughter-houses, where few beings can escape but those of the butcher kind-the lion, wolf, or tiger. And as to man himself, he is undoubtedly the supreme lord, nay, the uncontrollable tyrant, of this globe. Yet survey him in a state of Deism, and I must pronounce him a very poor creature; he is then a kind of Jack Ketch, an executioner-general. He may, nay, he must, destroy, for his own subsistence multitudes of beings that have done him no wrong. He has none of that heavenly power to restore life; and can he be fond of the permission to take it away? One who, like me, is subject to the tender passions, will never be proud of this.

No dying brute I view in anguish here,

But from my melting eye descends a tear.

The very beasts are entitled to my compassion; but who can express the anxieties I feel for the afflictions sustained by virtuous men, and my abhorrence of the cruel? Yet in Deism I can discern no reward for the one or punishment for the other. On this view of things the Castihan King might well say he could have directed God to amend His creation.

I think, upon the whole, the God of wisdom would not have made a world so much in want of a Redeemer as this and not give it one; therefore at present I am again a Christian. Oh that the Son of God would confirm me His! As yet my soul is like a weather-beaten bird that hovers over the great ocean, tired and afraid of dropping. Death and eternity are ready to receive it; the pleasant land is out of sight, hid by fogs and mists, and the way unknown to gain the happy groves.

I was formerly apt to mention my skepticism, both to clergymen and laymen, with a view of lessening the evil, but they rather increased it. Few clergymen cared to discourse on the subject, and if they did they generally expected that a few weak reasons should eradicate at once strong and deep-rooted prejudices; and most laymen discovered an utter ignorance of the religion they pretended to believe, and looked upon me as if I had the plague for owning I did not believe it. What method could I take? I long avoided speaking of religion to any but its Great Author, who, I hope, has at last led me to one that is capable of removing my spiritual darkness. May the Giver of all goodness reward you in that day when (according to the prophet Daniel) ' the wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever '![ On Sunday, Dec. 7, he preached at West Street.]

Fri. 12.-As I was returning from Zoar I came as well as usual to Moorfields ; but there my strength entirely failed, and such a faintness and weariness seized me that it was with difficulty I got home. I could not but think how happy it would be (suppose we were ready for the Bridegroom) to sink down and steal away at once, without any of the hurry and pomp of dying! Yet it is happier still to glorify God in our death as well as our life.

About this time I received a serious, sensible letter, the substance of which was as follows [This was reprinted in the Arm. Mag. 1795P.155]:

Scarce any nation passes a century without some remarkable fluctuation. How should it be otherwise? For how can that be perpetually stable wherein man, full of instability, is principally concerned? It is certain, therefore, that all the quiet in a nation is ordered by divine wisdom, as all the confusions and convulsions are permitted by divine justice. Let us view the present state of Great Britain in this light, resting assured that all which befalls us is intended to promote our good in this world and that which is to come.

This land is ripe for judgments. How few are there herein who even intend to please God in all they do! And all besides are subjects of divine wrath. For all who live without any regard to God are willful sinners against God, and every hour liable to the stroke of His offended

justice.

And what shall these do when visited by the sword, the plague, the famine, or the furious elements? Oh that they would turn to God through the Savior of sinners! Surely then they would find mercy! Yea, and probably see the salvation of God, even in the land of the living.

But what shall the Christians do in the time of public calamities? Be still, look up, and follow Providence. Be still, O my soul! in the midst of tumults and the distress of nations. Take no comfort in anything but in the consciousness of divine love. Listen to His voice, and quietly wait to see the hand of God over all. If you are uncertain what to do, look up and expect wisdom from above. If you fear, look up for courage and faith to act well on all occasions. If the sword is at your throat, look up for submission to the wise and gracious will of God. Look up for power to pray without ceasing, and in everything to give thanks. Follow Providence. Do not run before, but after, the hand that leads the simple-hearted, with a steady attention and a determinate purpose to do what is pleasing to Him.

But what shall the Christians do if the storm come-if our country be actually invaded? The general answer must be the same : ' Be still; look up; follow Providence.' A particular answer is hard to give yet. Only so far one may say : (I) We must take great care of our spirits. If we sink into the world's fears or joys we shall lose our hold on God. The spirit of the Christians and the spirit of the world are entirely different. They can never agree in what appertains to the work of God, either in His dispensations of grace or justice. (2) Every one should deeply consider what he is called to. Some may think it would be a sin to defend themselves. Happy are they if they can refrain from judging or condemning those that are of a different persuasion. Certain it is some have fought and died in a just cause with a conscience void of offence. To some, therefore, it may be matter of duty to repel the common enemy. (3) They who believe they are called to this should proceed in all things in a Christian spirit. They should, if possible, join in one body. They should endeavour to avoid trifling company and conversation. They should learn the exercise with prayers and hymns. But who of us is sufficient for these things?

Sun. 14.-The minds of many people being deeply affected with a prospect of public calamities, I explained those comfortable words in the First Lesson (Isa. xxvi. 20): ' Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee. Hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast [Stone's End, near the Marshalsea in the Borough. In Paterson's Road Map miles are counted from this point on the Dover Road.    See W.H.S. vol. y11. p. 71.]

Tues. 16.-I set out for Lewisham, appointing one to meet me with my horse at the Stone's End.1 But he mistook his way, and so left me to walk on, in my boots and great-coat. When I came within a quarter of a mile of Lewisham Bridge a coach drove swiftly by me. I wondered why the coachman stopped, till he called, and desired me to come up to him. The reason then appeared-the low grounds were quite covered with water, so that I could not have attempted to reach the bridge without hazarding my life.[ On Friday, the 19th he preached at West Street.]

Tues. 23-[ On Thursday the 25th he preached at West Street.]-I was in the robe-chamber adjoining to the House of Lords when the King put on his robes.[ George   11   was   then   seventy-two years of age-the last King of England to lead an army into battle (Dettingen, 1743).    He reigned  th11ty-three years; was also Elector of Hanover:   died  in 1760.] His brow was much furrowed with age, and quite clouded with care. And is this all the world can give even to a king? All the grandeur it can afford? A blanket of ermine round his shoulders, so heavy and cumbersome he can scarce move under it! A huge heap of borrowed hair, with a few plates of gold and glittering stones upon his head! Alas, what a bauble is human greatness! And even this will not endure. Cover the head with ever so much hair and gold, yet-

Scit te Proserpina canum; Personam capiti detrahet illa tuo.[ ' Proserpine knows you to be whitehaired ; she will snip off the mask from your   head'   (Martial,  Epigr.   11i.   43). W.H.S. vol. v. p. 30.]

Jan. 1756., Public Affairs

1756, Jan. I.-We had a large congregation at four in the morning.[ At the Foundery ; also, later in the day, at West Street.] How much are men divided in their expectations concerning the ensuing year! Will it bring a large harvest of temporal calamities, or of spiritual blessings? Perhaps of both-of temporal afflictions preparatory to spiritual blessings.

Mon. 5.-This week I wrote An Address to the Clergy? which, considering the state of public affairs, I judged would be more seasonable and more easily borne at this time than at any other.[ Jan. 6 is the date at the end of A Letter to the Reverend W. Law. At the beginning is the date 'Dec. 15, 1755' (Green's Bibliography, No. 174, and Works, vol. ix. p. 466). He also wrote to Joseph Cownley on the loth (vol. x11. p. 224). On the 9th he preached at Zoar.]

Wed. 14.-Mr. Walsh wrote to me as follows:

REV.   AND  VERY  DEAR  SlR,

In Mr.  Booker's  letter are  many palpable falsehoods.[ The reference is probably to one of the Two Letters Concerning the Methodists, published in 1752, a rare publication, the originals of which are in Trinity College Library, Dublin. His roughness notwithstanding, there is evidence to show that Booker admired both the scholarship and character of Walsh. See above, P-39]    But what exasperated  him so he does not tell.    It was my opposing his Arian principles, my telling him I had the same arguments to prove the Divinity of Christ as to prove the Godhead of the Father. (I) The Father is called God, "?X ; so is the Son, Isa. ix. 6. (2) The Father is called DVita ; so is the Son, Hos. I. 7. (3) The Father is called mrp; so is the Son, Jer. xx11i. 6. (4) The Father is said to be from everlasting ; so the Son is called iy UK, Isa. ix. 6. Not the everlasting Father, but the Father or Author of eternity. (5) The Father is said to create all things ; so is the Son, John I. and Col. I. (6) The Father is said to be almighty ; so is the Son. (7) The Father is omnipresent; so is the Son, Matt, xv11i. 20. (8) The Father is omniscient ; so is the Son, Rev. 11. 23. (9) The Father forgives sins; so does the Son, Mark 11. 5-11. (10) The Father is Judge of all ; so is the Son.

But still he disputed whether any man should pray to Christ. I gave these reasons for it : (I) All men are bound to honour the Son as they honour the Father. But we are to honour the Father by praying to Him, therefore we should so honour the Son. (2) God commands, ' Let all the angels of God worship Him.' This is done, Rev. v. 12, 13. And it is certain praise and thanksgiving are superior rather than inferior to prayer. (3) St. Paul prayed to Him, 2 Cor. x11. 8, 9. (4) St. Stephen prayed to Him, Acts v11. 59. (The word God is not in the original.) (5) All believers in the apostolic age prayed to Him, I Cor. I.   2. For what is to call upon His name but to pray to Him?

When he could not answer these reasons he called them cant, and said, ' Much learning has made thee mad.' What he calls ' contempt ' was confronting him with Scripture and reason in defence of the Godhead of Christ. I acknowledge I have been an opposer of Arianism ever since I knew what it was, but especially since my late illness, during which I had such glorious evidences of the eternal power and Godhead of my great Redeemer. I bless God I love Mr. Bfooker], as well as all mankind ; but it grieves me to see people led in the high road to hell instead of heaven, especially at a time which calls upon all to awake and prepare to meet their God.[ On Thursday the I5th he preached at   Bishop  Bonner's   Hall (see above, p.  loi).]

            Saturday the 17th, and in the pare hours of the following days, I read over Mr. Pike's Philosophia Sacra, [Samuel Pike (1717 (?)-1773).   Philosophia Sacra ; or, the Principles of Natural Philosophy Extracted from Divine Revelation. London, 1753. 8vo. See W.H.S. vol. iv. p. 108 ; below, p. 190.] a treatise admirably well wrote by an ingenious man, who says all that can be said for Mr. Hutchinson's hypothesis.[ John Hutchinson, born in 1674, was steward to the Duke of Somerset.    His Prinnpia were an attempt to set aside the Newtonian doctrine of gravitation.] But it is only an hypothesis still; much supposition and little proof?

Feb. 1756, In Kent and London

Mon. 26.-I rode to Canterbury, and preached in the evening to such a congregation as I never saw there before, in which were abundance of the soldiers, and not a few of their officers.

Wed. 28.-I preached about noon at Dover [For early preaching-places in Dover (and the Cliff) see Meth Rec. Aug. 16, 1906.] to a very serious but small congregation. We afterwards walked up to the Castle, on the top of a mountain. It is an amazingly fine situation, and from hence we had a clear view of that vast piece of the cliff which a few days ago divided from the rest and fell down upon the beach.

Fri. 30.-In returning to London I read the life of the late Czar, Peter the Great. Undoubtedly he was a soldier, a general, and a statesman, scarce inferior to any. But why was he called a Christian? What has Christianity to do either with deep dissimulation or savage cruelty? [From Feb. I he was in London (see Sermon Register), and on Feb. 5 he wrote his third letter to R. Tompson ( Works, vol. x11. p. 469). He also wrote to Dr. Dodd (Woiks, vol. xi. p 448).]

Feb. 6, Fri.-The fast-day was a glorious day, such as London has scarce seen since the Restoration.[ Humiliation was turned into national rejoicing, for the threatened invasion by the French was averted.] Every church in the city was more than full, and a solemn seriousness sat on every face. Surely God hears the prayer, and there will yet be a lengthening of our tranquility.

Even the Jews observed this day with a peculiar solemnity. The form of prayer which was used in their synagogue began : ' Come, and let us return unto the Lord, for He hath torn and He will heal us,' and concluded with those remarkable words :

"Incline the heart of our Sovereign Lord King George, as well as the hearts of his lords and counsellors, to use us kindly, and all our brethren, the children of Israel, that in his days and in our days we may see the restoration of Judah, and that Israel may dwell in safety, and the Redeemer may come to Zion. May it be Thy will! And we all say, Amen." [On Tuesday the  I71h he preached at Deptford.    On Feb.  i8th the fourth letter   to    R.   Tompson   was   written (Works, vol. x11. p. 472.)]

FEB. 14-19, 1756

". to recover, though slowly, from that hour."

Thur. 19.-Daniel Car, whom I never saw before, but heard from others that he had been for some time remarkably serious -a prentice to one Mr. Rogers, a tailor, on Stepney Causeway- gave me the account following :

About the beginning of last month there were strange noises in our house, which were heard by many. Jan. 10, about a quarter past ten at night, I went up into a two-pair-of-stairs room and sat down to read my Bible, when I heard a knocking under my feet, as if it was in the room below. I took the candle in my left hand, and the book in my right, and went down immediately. As soon as I went into the room the candle went out, and I saw a man standing in the middle of the chamber, in light-coloured cloths and a green velvet waistcoat, with a lighted torch in his hand. I said, ' In the name of God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, who are you, and what do you want?' He said, 'I am the spirit of Richard Sims, who died here in the year 1702. I have a nephew at Kingston-upon-Thames, Thomas Roberts, an apothecary; you must go and warn him and his sister from me that they immediately turn to God, for he will die on the 26th of next month, and she will die on the 3oth.' I said, ' I can't go, for my time is not my own.' He answered, ' Can you write?' I said ' Yes.' ' Then,' said he, 'you must write to them. Go and fetch pen, ink, and paper, and I will tell you what to write.' I went and fetched a pen and ink, with a sheet of paper. When I came in again the table, which used to stand near the window, was removed to the feet of the bed. So I sat down, and he stood before the table, and told me, word by word, what to write. I wrote a whole sheet of paper on all four sides, describing the torment of hell in such words as I had never heard in my life, enough to make one's blood run cold. When I had done he said, ' I will give them a mark that it comes from me.' So he struck the burning end of his torch on the paper, and it turned that part of it into the colour of half-burnt tinder. He then said, 'What book is that?' I answered, ' The Bible.' He said, ' Open it, and read where your eye falls.' I did so, and read, John v. 28, 29 : ' The hour is coming in which all that are in the graves shall hear His voice, and shall come

forth; they that have done good unto the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil unto the resurrection of damnation.' At that word he gave such a groan and shriek as I never heard and . . .][ The above is a fragment of another version of the Journal in the handwriting of Wesley.    This   narrative,   and   also another given below,  pp. 250-3,   were discovered among Wesley letters in the Colman   Collection.     They    have   not hitherto been published, so far as we have been able to ascertain.]

March 1756., Canterbury: London: Bristol

Mon. 23.-I paid another visit to Canterbury, but came in too late to preach.

Tues. 24.-Abundance of soldiers and many officers came to the preaching. And surely the fear and the love of God will prepare them either for death or victory.

Wed. 25.-I dined with Colonel------,[ Probably Colonel Gallatin, who was stationed at Canterbury.] who said : ' No men fight like those who fear God ; I had rather command five hundred such than any regiment in his Majesty's army.'

Thur. 26.-I had so severe a cold that I could hardly speak to be heard. However, I preached morning and evening, as I could, and the next day returned to London.[ On Friday the 27th he preached at Zoar, and on Sunday the 2gth in London.]

March 1, Mon.-I set out for Bristol. Some time after I received the copy of another letter, dated March 2, from the Rev. Mr. Davies in Virginia, [Of Hanover, Virginia. For his