Wesley Corpus

Mon. 24.--I came to Darlington just in time; for a great stumbling-block had lately occurred. But my coming gave the people a newer thing to talk of. So I trust the new thing will soon be forgotten. Wed. 26.-I preached at Thirsk; Thursday, 27, at York. Friday, 28. I entered into my eightieth year; but, blessed be God, my time is not “labour and sorrow.” I find no more pain or bodily infirmities than at five-and-twenty. This I still impute, 1. To the power of God, fitting me for what he calls me to. 2. To my still travelling four or five thousand miles a year. 3. To my sleeping, night or day, whenever I want it. 4. To my rising at a set hour. And, 5. To my con stant preaching, particularly in the morning. Saturday, 29. I went on to Leeds, and, after preaching, met the select society, consisting of about sixty members; most of whom can testify, that “the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth from all sin.” Mon. JULY 1.-Coming to Sheffield, just at the time of the Quarterly Meeting, I preached on Acts is. 31 : “Then had the churches rest , and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.” This is eminently fulfilled in all these parts; at Sheffield in particular. Tues. 2.--I found a serious, as well as a numerous, con gregation at Nottingham. Thursday, 4. I preached at Derby. I trust the work of God will now prosper here also. All the jars of our brethren are at an end, and they strive together for the hope of the Gospel. Sat. 6.--I came to Birmingham, and preached once more in the old dreary preaching-house. Sun. 7.--I opened the new House at eight, and it contained the people well: But not in the evening; many were then 232 REv. J. Wesley’s [July, 1782. constrained to go away. In the middle of the sermon, a huge noise was heard, caused by the breaking of a bench on which some people stood. None of them was hurt; yet it occasioned a general panic at first: But in a few minutes all was quiet. Wed, 10.--I read Prayers and preached in the church at Darlaston, and in the evening returned to Birmingham. Fri day, 12. I walked through Mr. Bolton’s curious works.