Wesley Corpus

The mob here used to be exceeding boisterous; but none now opened his mouth. How easily, when it seems him good, does God “still the madness of the people !” 248 REv. J. wesLEY’s [April, 1766. Hence we rode to Trusthorpe in the Marsh, where a multitude of plain, simple-hearted people assembled. When I met the society after preaching, abundance of them crowded in; many of whom, while we were wrestling with God in prayer, cried out with a loud and bitter cry. But it was not long before some of them rejoiced with joy unspeakable. Tues. 22.--I preached to a congregation of a very different kind at Horncastle. John Hill has done more mischief here than a man of far greater talents can do good. By that unhappy division of the society, he has opened the mouths of all the gainsayers; and, to complete the scandal, he and six-and-twenty more have been dipped ! “Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel!” Wed. 23.--I preached at five; in Torrington at nine; and about two at Scotter, where the poor people now enjoy great quietness, by means of Sir N. H. About six I preached at Ferry. I do not choose to preach above twice or thrice in a day; but when I am called to do more, it is all one: I find strength according to my need. Thur. 24.--I rode to Epworth, and the next day, through heavy rain, to Swinfleet. I supposed, as the rain kept many from coming, the preaching-house would contain the congrega tion; but it would not. However, as the door and windows were open, I believe, most of them could hear; and the eagerness with which they heard made me hope they were not forgetful hearers. Sun. 27.--I rode over to Misterton, and visited a young woman, who a year or two since was struck first with deep melancholy, and soon after with utter distraction. We were quickly convinced whence her disorder came. Let Physicians do all they will or can; yet it will be found in the end, that “this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” After preaching I hasted away to Haxey, and came thither before the church began. The Curate preached a very harmless sermon against the Methodists.