Wesley Corpus

first, in grace, as well as number. The new preaching-house not being able to contain one half of the congregation, I preached abroad inthe calm, mild evening ; and I believe God applied his word tomany hearts. Thur. JULY 1.-I went to Lincoln. After dinner we took a walk in and round the Minster ; which I really think is more elegant than that at York, in various parts of the structure, as well as in its admirable situation. The new House was throughly filled in the evening, and with hearers uncommonly serious . There seems to be a remarkable difference between the people of Lincoln, and those of York. They have not so much fire and vigour ofspirit ; but far more mildness and gentleness ; by means of which, if they had the same outward helps, they would probably excel their neighbours. Some miles short of Lincoln, our post-boy stopped at an inn on the road, to give his horses a little water. As soon aswe went in, the inn-keeper burst into tears, as did his wife ; wringing her hands, and weeping bitterly. "What ! " he said, " are you come into my house ! My father is John Lester, ofEpworth." I found both he and hiswife had been of our society, till they left them. We spent some time in prayer together ; and I trust not invain. Fri. 2.-About eleven I preached at Newton; but the preaching-house would not contain half the congregation. No Aug. 1790.] JOURNAL. 491 rain fell during the time of preaching ; but it rained both before and after. I was struck with the preaching-house at Gainsbo- rough, (one of the handsomest towns in Lincolnshire,) so neat, so elegant ! just taking up one side of a small, neat Square. I found uncommon liberty of speech, and received it as a token for good. Surely this poor society, which has been so miserably depressed, will again lift up its head ! Saturday, 3. I reached Epworth ; and, after preaching in the evening, met the society ; and reminded them ofwhat they were some years ago, andwhat they are now ; scarce retaining the shadow of their former zeal and activity in all the ways ofGod. Sun. 4-. I went over to Misterton, where likewise the work of God was exceedingly decayed. The House being far too