Wesley Corpus

In the even ing Mr. Pugh read Prayers, and I preached, at Newport. This is the only town in Wales which I had then observed to increase. In riding along on the side of Newport-Bay, I observed on the ground a large quantity of turfs. These are found by removing the sand above the high-water mark, under which there is a continued bed of turf, with the roots of trees, leaves, nuts, and various kinds of vegetables. So that it is plain the sea is an intruder here, and now covers what was once dry land. Such probably was the whole Bay a few centuries ago. Nay, it is not at all improbable, that formerly it was dry land from Aberystwith to St. David’s Point. Tues. 15.--Mr. Bowen carried me in his chaise to Cardigan. This is the second town I have seen in Wales, which is con tinually increasing both in buildings and in number of inhabitants. I preached at noon; five or six Clergymen being present, with a numerous congregation; and a more attentive one I have not seen: Many likewise appeared deeply affected. If our Preachers constantly attended here, I cannot think their labour would be in vain. Wed. 16.--About nine I preached again in Newport church, and found much liberty among that poor, simple people. We dined with Admiral Vaughan, at Tracoom; one of the most delightful spots that can be imagined. Thence we rode to Haverfordwest; but the heat and dust were as much as I could bear: I was faint for a while : But it was all gone as soon as I came into the congregation; and after preaching, and meeting the scciety, I was as fresh as at six in the morning. 106 REv. J. wesley’s [July, 1777. Thur. 17.--I preached at Roach, and took a view of the old Castle, built on a steep rock. A gentleman wisely asked Mr. S , “Pray is this natural or artificial?” He gravely replied, “Artificial, to be sure; I imported it from the north of Ireland.” Fri. 18.-The more I converse with the society at Haver ford, the more I am united to them. Saturday, 19. About eleven I preached at Howton, two miles short of the Ferry. There was an uncommon blessing among the simple-hearted people.