Wesley Corpus

2.-In my way to Exeter, I read over an ingenious tract, containing some observations which I never saw before. In particular, that if corn sells for twice as much now as it did at the time of the Revolution, it is in effect no dearer than it was then, because we have now twice as much money; that if other things sell now for twice as much as they did then, corn 86 REv. J. Wesley’s [Sept. 1776. ought to do so too; that though the price of all things increases as money increases, yet they are really no dearer than they were before; and, lastly, that to petition Parliament to alter these things, is to put them upon impossibilities, and can answer no end but that of inflaming the people against their Governors. Wed. 4.--I was desired to call at Ottery, a large town, eleven miles from Exeter. I preached in the market-house to abun dance of people, who behaved with great decency. At five, I preached in the market-place at Axminster, to a still larger con gregation. I have seldom heard people speak with more honesty and simplicity than many did at the love-feast which followed. I have not seen a more unpolished people than these; but love supplies all defects. It supplies all the essentials of good breeding, without the help of a dancing-master. Thur. 5.-I went on to Corfe-Castle, in the Isle of Purbeck. At six I preached in the yard adjoining to the preaching-house. It was a season both of conviction and consolation. Friday, 6. I preached at the new House in Melcomb, to as many as it would well contain. Saturday, 7. About noon I stood upon the Cross, at Bruton, and proclaimed “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Many seemed to be astonished; all were quiet; and a few deeply affected. In the evening I preached at Shepton-Mallet; where the people in general appeared to be more serious, ever since the late terrible riot, in which two of them were killed. On Saturday I went on to Bristol. Mon. 9.--I began, what I had long intended, visiting the society from house to house, setting apart at least two hours in a day for that purpose. I was surprised to find the simplicity with which one and all spoke, both of their temporal and spiritual state.