Wesley Corpus

Fri. 15.--In the afternoon I preached at Alemouth. How plain an evidence have we here, that even our outward work, even the societies, are not of man’s building. With all our labour and skill, we cannot, in nine years’ time, form a society in this place; even though there is none that opposes, poor or rich: nay, though the two richest men in the town, and the only gentlemen there, have done all which was in their power to further it. Sat. 16.--I rode on to the poor colliers at Placey. When we came hither first, John Lane, then nine or ten years old, was one of the first who found peace with God. From that hour he continued to walk day and night in the light of his countenance. I saw him last year, longing to be with Christ. But he was detained here a little longer, that he might witness “a good confession” in death, as well as in life. He praised God as long as he had breath, and was buried a day or two before I came. May 17.--(Being What-Sunday.) I preached in the morning at Gateshead, to a huge congregation, on our Lord’s words, “ If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.” About tive I began near the 534 REV. J. WESLEY’S JOURNAL. ----_--i[ May, 1752. Keelmen’s Hospital ; many thousands standing round, or sitting on the grass. The wind was high just before ; but scarce a breath was felt, all the time we were assembled before God. I praise God for this also. Is it enthusiasm to see God in every benefit which we receive ? Mon. 18.--I preached at Newlands, and endeavoured to remove the offences which had crept in among the simple people. In the evening I preached at Sheep Hill. It rained all the time; but that little disturbed either the congregation or me.