Wesley Corpus

At five, the hill on which I designed to preach was covered, from the top to the bottom. I never saw so large a number of people together, either in Moorfields, or at Kennington Common. I knew it was not possible for the one half to hear, although my voice was then strong and clear ; and I stood so as to have them all in view, as they were ranged on the side of the hill. The word of God which I set before them was, “I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely.” After preaching, the poor people were ready to tread me under foot, out of pure love and kindness. It was some time before I could possibly get out of the press. I then went back another way:than I came; but several were got to our inn before me; by whom I was vehemently importuned to stay with them, at least, a few days ; or, however, one day more. But I could not consent; having given my word to be at Birstal, with God’s leave, on Tuesday night. Some of these told me, they were members of a religious society, which had subsisted for many years, and had always gone on in a prudent, regular manner, and been well spoken of by all men. They likewise informed me what a fine library they had; and that the steward read a sermon every Sunday And yet how many of the publicans and herlots will go into the kingdom of heaven before these ! Mon. 31.--About three I left Newcastle. I read over to-day the famous Dr. Pitcairn’s Works ; but I was utterly disappointed by that dry, sour, controversial book. We came in the evening to Boroughpridge, where, to my great surprise, the mistress of the house. though Journal I.--17 he? eee 204 REV. J. WESLEY’S JOURNAL. [June, 1742. - much of a gentlewoman, desired she and her family might join with us in prayer. They did so likewise between four and five in the morning. Perhaps even this seed may bring forth fruit.