Wesley Corpus

At five they were still so eager to hear, that the preaching-house would not near contain the congregation. After preaching, four-and-thirty persons desired admission into the society; every one of whom was (for the present, at least) under very serious impressions: And most of them, there is reason to hope, will bring forth fruit with patience. In the evening I preached to a lovely congregation, at Stroud; and on Tuesday afternoon came to Bristol. Aug. 1783.] JOURNAL. 259 Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I spent at Bath. Thurs day, 24. I went with a few friends to Blase-Castle. The woods on the side of the hill, cut through various directions, are the pleasantest I ever saw, little inferior to the Leasowes; and, by the beautiful prospects, far superior to Stow gardens. After wards we took a view of Lord Clifford’s woods, at King's Weston. They are amazingly beautiful : I have seen nothing equal to them in the west of England, and very few in any other parts. In the evening I read to the congregation an account of our brethren in Holland, and many thanksgivings were rendered to God on their account. Tues. 29.--Our Conference began, at which two important points were considered: First, the case of Birstal House; and, Secondly, the state of Kingswood School. With regard to the former, our brethren earnestly desired that I would go to Birstal myself, believing this would be the most effectual way of bringing the Trustees to reason. With regard to the latter, we all agreed, that either the School should cease, or the Rules of it be punctually observed: Particularly, that the children should never play; and that a master should be always present with them. Tues. AUGUST 5.--Early in the morning I was seized with a most impetuous flux. In a few hours it was joined by a violent and almost continual cramp; first, in my feet, legs, thighs; then, in my side and my throat. The case being judged extreme, a grain and a half of opium was given me in three doses: This speedily stopped the cramp; but, at the same time, took away my speech, hearing, and power of motion; andlocked me up from head to foot; so that I lay a mere log. I then sent for Dr. Drummond, who from that time attended me twice a day.