Wesley Corpus

Abundance of people were gathered together, notwithstanding heavy rain; and they received the truth in the love thereof. I came to Howden a little before three; when a large congregation was soon gathered. All were serious; the more so, because of a few claps of thunder that rolled over our heads. I preached at Swinfleet in the evening. These are the most sensible and gentlemanlike farmers that I have seen anywhere; July, 1776.] v UU RNAL. 81 and many of them are “rooted and grounded in love,” and have adorned the Gospel many years. Sat. 6.-I went on to Epworth, and found my old friend, Mr. Hutton, in the deepest melancholy. I judged it to be partly natural, partly diabolical; but I doubt not he will be saved, though as by fire.o Tues, 9.--I preached at Brigg in the morning. All behaved well, but a few gentlemen, (so called,) who seemed to under stand no more of the matter, than if I had been talking Greek. I went thence to Horncastle and to Spilsby, with Mr. Bre While he was at Cambridge, he was convinced of sin, though not by any outward means, and soon after justified. Coming to Hull, he met with one of our Preachers. By long and close conversation with him, he was clearly convinced it was his duty to join with the people called Methodists. At first, indeed, he staggered at Lay Preachers; but, after weighing the matter more deeply, he began preaching himself; and found a very remarkable blessing, both on his own soul, and on his labours. After visiting a few more places in these parts, on Saturday, 13, I returned to Epworth. Sunday, 14. I preached in the morning at Gringley; about one, at Ouston; and at four, in Epworth market-place; where God “struck with the hammer of his word, and broke the hearts of stone.” We had after wards a love-feast, at which a flame was soon kindled; which was greatly increased while Mr. Cundy related the manner how God perfected him in love : A testimony which is always attended with a peculiar blessing. Mon. 15.--I preached at Doncaster, in one of the most elegant Houses in England, and to one of the most elegant congregations.