Wesley Corpus

Wed. 10.--I opened the new preaching-house just finished at Newport in the Isle of Wight. After preaching, I explained the nature of a Methodist society; of which few had before the least conception. Friday, 12. I came to London, and was informed that my wife died on Monday. This evening she was buried, though I was not informed of it till a day or two after. Mon. 15.--I set out for Oxfordshire, and spent five days with much satisfaction among the societies. I found no offences among them at all, but they appeared to walk in love. On Friday, 19, I returned to London. Sun. 21.--About ten at night we set out for Norwich, and came thither about noon on Monday. Finding the people loving and peaceable, I spent a day or two with much satisfaction; and on Wednesday, went on to Yarmouth. There is a prospect of good here also, the two grand hinderers having taken themselves away. At Lowestoft I found much life and much love. On Friday I preached at Loddon, and on Saturday returned to Norwich. Sun. 28.--I preached at Bear-Street to a large congregation, most of whom had never seen my face before. At half an hour after two, and at five, I preached to our usual congregation; and the next morning commended them to the grace of God. Mon. 29.--I went to Fakenham, and in the evening preached in the Room, built by Miss Franklin, now Mrs. Parker. I believe most of the town were present. Tuesday, 30. I went to Wells, a considerable sea-port, twelve miles from Fakenham, where also Miss Franklin had opened a door, by preaching abroad, though at the peril of her life. She was followed by a young woman of the town, with whom I talked Dec. 1781.] JOURNAL. 219 largely, and found her very sensible, and much devoted to God. From her I learnt that till the Methodists came, they had none but female Teachers in this country; and that there were six of these within ten or twelve miles, all of whom were members of the Church of England. I preached about ten in a small, meat preaching-house; and all but two or three were very attentive. Here are a few who appear to be in great earnest. And if so, they will surely increase.