Wesley Corpus

Scott, Minister of the Scotch church, both welcomed me to Holland; but their kindness involved me in an awkward difficulty: Mr. Scott had asked the consent of his Consistory, for me to preach in his church on Sunday afternoon; but Mr. Williams had given notice of my preaching in his church, both morning and afternoon; and neither of them being willing to give up his point, I would fain have compromised the matter; but each seemed to apprehend his honour con cerned, and would not in anywise give up his point. I saw no possible way to satisfy both, but by prolonging my stay in Holland, inorder to preach one Sunday, morning and afternoon in the Episcopal, and another in the Scotch church: And possibly God may have more work for me to do in Holland, than I am yet aware of. Though Mr. Loyal, with whom I lodged when I was at Rotterdam before, was not in town, being gone with a friend Aug. 1786.] JOURNAL. 345 to Paris, yet I was quite as at home, and went on in my work without any interruption. Sunday, 13. The Service began about ten. Mr. Williams read Prayers exceedingly well, and I preached on those words in the first Lesson, “How long halt ye between two opinions?” All the congregation gave a serious attention; but I fear they only heard, but did not feel: But many seemed to be much affected in the afternoon, while I opened and applied those words, “There hath no temptation taken you, but what is common to men.” In the evening, Mr. Scott called upon me, and informed me, that the Elders of his church would not desire me to stay in Holland on purpose to preach, but would dismiss my promise. I then determined to follow my first plan; and (God willing) to return to England in a fortnight. Mon. 14.--Taking boat at eight, we went at our ease through one of the pleasantest summer countries in Europe, and reached the Hague between twelve and one. Being determined to lodge at no more inns, I went with brother Ferguson to his own lodg ing, and passed a quiet and comfortable night. A few pious persons came to us in the evening; with whose spirits we quickly took acquaintance.