Wesley Corpus

Friday, 22. I embarked on board the Kildare; abundantly the best and cleanest ship which I have sailed in for many years. But the wind failing, we could not cross the bar till about noon. Saturday, 23. About one, the wind being high, and the sea rough, I judged it was my best way to lie down and go to sleep. Meantime the ship went forty leagues in about twelve hours, and reached Dublin early on Sunday morning. Landing at the quay, I walked straight to the new Room, very well, (blessed be God,) and very hungry. 426 REv. J. weslEY’s [April, 1771. I immediately set myself to inquire into the state of the society in Dublin. It was plain there had been a continual jar, for at least two years last past, which had stumbled the people, weakened the hands of the Preachers, and greatly hindered [the work of God]. I wanted to know the ground of this; and, that I might do nothing rashly, determined to hear the parties, separately first, and then face to face. Having already talked with the Preachers, I talked this evening with the Leaders at large; and from the spirit which appeared in all, I had a good hope that all hinderances would be removed. On Wednesday evening I met the Leaders again, and gave them an opportunity of explaining themselves further; and on Friday I appointed an extra ordinary meeting, at which some spoke with much warmth. But I tempered them on each side, so that they parted in peace. Sat. 30.--I preached at the new preaching-house, near the barracks, about six in the evening. Many attended here who cannot, and many who will not, come to the other end of the town. So that I am persuaded the preaching here twice or thrice a week, will be much for the glory of God. Sun. 31.--The Leaders, Stewards, and Preachers, spoke their minds freely to each other. I now saw the whole evil might be removed, all parties being desirous of peace. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I visited the classes, and found a general faintness had run through the society. Yet for several days God has given a general blessing, and strengthened many of the feeble-minded. On Tuesday I preached again at the new House, and many were greatly comforted.