Wesley Corpus

May, 1783.] JOURNAL. 247 Here the scandal of the cross seems to be ceased, and we are grown honourable men. Thursday, 15. I preached about noon at Wigan, and in the evening at Bolton, to a people much alive to God. Saturday, 17. I went on to Manchester. Sunday, 18. Mr. Bayley came very opportunely to assist me in the Morning Service. Such a sight, I believe, was never seen at Manchester before. It was supposed there were thirteen or fourteen hundred communicants, among whom there was such a spirit as I have seldom found; and their whole behaviour was such as adorned the Gospel. Tues. 20.--I met the select society, consisting of between forty and fifty members. Several of these were lately made partakers of the great salvation; as several were above twenty years ago. I believe there is no place but London, where we have so many souls so deeply devoted to God; and his hand is not shortened yet, but his work rapidly increases on every side. About noon I preached at Stockport; and in the after noon, in the new church at Macclesfield. This society seems as lively as even that at Manchester, and increases nearly as fast. Not a week passes wherein some are not justified, and some renewed in love. Wednesday, 21. I met a few of these, and found them indeed All praise, all meekness, and all love. In the evening I exhorted them all to expect pardon or holi ness to-day, not to-morrow. O let their love never grow cold ! Fri. 23.--I set out for Derby; but the smith had so effect ually lamed one of my horses, that many told me he would never be able to travel more. I thought, “Even this may be made matter of prayer;” and set out cheerfully. The horse, instead of growing worse and worse, went better and better; and in the afternoon (after I had preached at Leek by the way) brought me safe to Derby. Sat. 24.--Being desired to marry two of our friends at Buxton, two-and-thirty miles from Derby, I took chaise at three, and came thither about eight. I found notice had been given of my preaching in the church ; and the Minister desired me to read Prayers.