Wesley Corpus

DEAR JOSEPH, -- By all means let James Hall [His colleague in Cornwall West. Taylor stayed in Cornwall another year; Hall went to Plymouth as second preacher in 1783.] come to the Conference. If he would put forth all his strength and be exact in every branch of his office, I would appoint him for the Assistant next year. But I should be sorry if the work should decay. Do all you can during this precious season. I shall have no objection to your being in Nottingham Circuit (unless you are in love). But if you go thither, you must take the books into your own hands; though I do not say you will receive many thanks from Matthew Bagshaw. [Evidently the books had been in the charge of this layman.] I expect to be in England in about ten days. -- I am, dear Joseph, Your affectionate friend and brother. To his Brother Charles DUBLIN, May 2, 1783. DEAR BROTHER, -- In three or four days we hope to embark. When we land, you may hear farther; but at a venture you may direct to Chester: and don’t forget the verses. I marvel Miss Freeman does not answer my letters. [See letter of April 25 to him.] Surely she is not affronted at anything. We parted in much friendship. I think verily you will keep out of debt while I live, if you will give me an hint now and then. We must positively let Mr. Abraham [This note is written by Charles Wesley on the letter: ‘The clergyman who accompanied me in my first journey to Londonderry. He returned to London, but was quite unmanageable. I saw him there in 1784.’] drop, and both his relations with him and near him. I am in hopes T. M. will satisfy Dr. Coke. I suppose she loses her annuity if she owns her marriage. I have not seen Mr. Barnard. [See letter of May 12, 1785.] We had an exceeding happy Conference, which concluded this morning. I wish all our English preachers were of the same spirit with the Irish, among whom is no jarring string. I never saw such simplicity and teachableness run through a body of preachers before. Tell me all you know of the good Congress, the loyalists, and the Colonies. Peace be with you and yours! Adieu! To John Cricket DUBLIN, May 2, 1783.