Wesley Corpus

We afterwards rode through Longford; but did not stop, as the day was cool and pleasant. About two we were unawares encompassed with a multitude of Papists, coming out of their mass-house. One of them knowing me soon alarmed the rest, who set up a hideous roar, and drew up in battle array. But we galloped through them, and went on to Drumersmave, where I preached in the evening, and the next day, Wednesday, 25, rode on to Sligo. Never did I see a fairer prospect of good here. But 8 REv. J. wesLEY’s [June, 1760. blossoms are not fruit. As large, if not a larger congregation than before, was at the market-place in the evening. I was exceeding weary, having rode an extremely dull horse; but I soon forgot my weariness, seeing so many, young and old, rich and poor, receiving the word with all gladness. Thur. 26.--I preached at five, in a large, commodious Room which has been procured since I was here last. I breakfasted at Mr. A ’s, and dined at Mr. K. ’s : But two such families I have seldom seen. They had feared God for many years, and served him in the best manner they knew. Nothing was wanting but that they should hear the “more excellent way,” which they then embraced with all their heart. Fri. 27.--Our morning congregation was doubled. Mr. D did not fail to be there, though it seemed strange to him at first, when mention was made of preaching at five in the morning. In the evening we had a still larger congre gation, and I believe God applied his word. Some trembled, others wept. Surely some of these shall know there is “balm in Gilead.” Sat. 28.--At five the congregation was larger than ever it had been at that hour. After breakfast I rode out with Mr. K. and Mr. D., who, hearing I was ill-mounted, desired me to make use of one of his horses, during my stay in Ireland. In the evening (it being market-day, so that the market house was full of people) I wrote a line to the Colonel, who readily gave me the liberty of preaching in the barrack-yard. He likewise came to hear himself, as did several of the Officers. It was a solemn conclusion of the happiest birth-day which I have known for many years. Sun.