Wesley Corpus

Tues. 24.--Observing in that valuable book, Mr. Gillies’s “ Historical Collections,” the custom of Christian congregations in all ages to set apart seasons of solemn thanksgivings, I was amazed and ashamed that we had never done this, after all the blessings we had received : and many to whom I mentioned it gladly agreed to set apart a day for that purpose. Mon. 30.--I set out for Norwich, and came thither the next evening. As a large congregation was waiting, I could not but preach, though weary enough. The two following days I spoke to each member of the society; and on Friday, July 4, took horse again, though how I should ride five miles I knew not. But God so strengthened both man and beast, that I reached Bury the same night, and London the next, far less tired than when I set out from Norwich. Monday,7, was our first day of solemn thanksgiving for the numberless spiritual blessings we have received. And I believe it was a day which will not soon be forgotten. Thur. 17.--One spent the evening with us who is accounted both a sensible anda religious man. What a proof of the fall! Even with all the advantages of a liberal education, this person, I will be bold to say, xnows just as much of heart religion, of scriptural Christianity, the religion of love, as a child three years 11d of Algebra. How much then may we suppose a Turk or Heathen to know? Hardly more; perhaps just as much. Twes. 22.--To oblige a friendly gentlewoman, I was a witness to her will, wherein she bequeathed part of her estate to charitable uses; and part, during his natural life, to her dog Toby. I suppose, though she should die within the year, her legacy to Toby may stand good; but that to the poor is null and void, by the statute of Mortmain! Sun. 27.--I buzied the body of Ephraim B , once a pattern to all that believed. But ‘rum the time he left off fasting and universal 584 REV. J. WESLEY'S JOURNAL. _ [Aug. 1755