Wesley Corpus

Rich and poor flocked together to it; whom I exhorted to acquaint themselves with God, and be at peace. I found much liberty of spirit among them; and still more at Halifax in the evening, when it seemed as if the windows of heaven were opened; as also at five in the morning, when I took a solemn leave of this affectionate people. Wed. 30.--About eleven the service began at Honley. After the Curate had read Prayers to a large and serious congregation, I preached, on, “It is appointed unto men once to die.” I believe many felt as well as heard the word. About six I preached at Huddersfield; where our brethren are now all at peace and unity with each other. In the evening I went to our quiet and delightful retreat at Longwood-House. Thur. MAY 1.--The congregation at five was exceeding 416 REv. J. Wesley’s [May, 1788. large, coming from many miles round; but that at Shelly, a lone place, six or seven miles from Huddersfield, where I was constrained to preach in the open air at nine, was six or seven times larger ; indeed, the largest I have seen since I left Manchester; and the power of God was eminently present, both to wound and to heal. I believe the congregation at Wakefield in the evening was larger even than this ; and the verdure of the trees, the smoothness of the meadow, the calmness of the evening, and the stillness of the whole congregation, made it a delightful sight. Fri. 2.--I went on to Bradford. I feared the jars which had been here would have lessened the congregation; but it was as large as ever I remember it on a week-day; and as deeply attentive as ever. A large number attended again at five in the morning. In the afternoon I spent some hours with the Trustees of Eccleshill House; but I might as well have talked to so many posts. In the evening we had a lovely congregation again, to whom I explained the former part of Rev. xiv. These had ears to hear; and many of them rejoiced with joy full of glory. Sun. 4.--It was not without extreme difficulty that we could get into the church; but it was worth all the labour.