Wesley Corpus

We had another good opportunity at seven in the morning, Tuesday, 14, which we closed with a serious, pointed conversation, and then went on to Tyrrel’s Pass. Though the wind was piercing cold, the multitude of people obliged me to preach abroad in the evening; after which I gave them all a plain account of the design of Methodism; namely, not to separate from the Church, but to unite together all the children of God that were scattered abroad. Wed. 15.--About ten I preached to a small congregation in the Court-House, in Molingar. We had a far different con gregation, both as to number and spirit, in Longford Court House in the evening. It was a beautiful sight. Great part of them came again at seven in the morning, and seemed to relish those words, “He that doeth the will of God, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.” Thur. 16.--Heavy rain came on in the evening; yet the preaching-house at Kenagh would not contain the people. Friday, 17. I came to my old friends at Athlone; but, to my surprise, I found them heaps upon heaps. I hastened to hear the contending parties face to face; and was amazed to find how much matter a little fire kindles. Some of the Leaders had causelessly taken offence at the Assistant. He called on Mr. R., and warned him against imbibing the same prejudice; telling him if he did he must beware of the consequence; meaning thereby the mischief it would do among the people. Misunderstanding this word, he grew very angry. Others took part with him, and the society was in an uproar. I talked with him till I was tired; but in vain: One might as well have talked to the north wind. So I gave him up to God, and only endeavoured to quench the flame among the people. Saturday, 18, was a day of peace. Sunday, 19. The Com manding Officer sending to offer me the use of any part of the barracks, I preached at five in the riding-house, a very spacious building, to a multitude of people, on, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” I think the word did not fall to the ground. Monday, 20. I preached about eleven at B ; and at six in the church at Aghrim.