Wesley Corpus

Dr. Coke made two or three little alterations in the Prayer-Book without my knowledge. [The Sunday Service of the Methodists. A new edition was printed in 1788. See Green's Bibliography, Appendix, pp. vii-ix, and Nos. 376, 390; letter also of Sept. 10, 1784.] I took particular care throughout to alter nothing merely for altering' sake. In religion I am for as few innovations as possible. I love the old wine best. And if it were only on this account, I prefer 'which' before 'who art in heaven.' Mr. Howard is really an extraordinary man. [Wesley met John Howard on July 28, 1787, in Dublin: 'I think one of the greatest men in Europe.' He called on Wesley in March 1789, but found him away on one of his journeys. See Journal, vii. 295, 472n.] God has raised him up to be a blessing to many nations. I do not doubt but there has been something more than natural in his preservation hitherto, and should not wonder if the providence of God should hereafter be still more conspicuous in his favor. About three weeks hence I expect to embark for England. Peace be with you and yours! -- I am Your affectionate brother. To the Publisher of the 'Dublin Chronicle' June 20, 1789. Since Mr. Edward Smyth, [See letters of June 2 and June 25 (to Adam Clarke).] as he says, 'has me in his power,' I hope as he is stout he will be merciful; and that he will remember the words of the honest Quaker to him that answered the Ernest Appeal, 'Canst thou not be content with laying John Wesley on his back, but thou wilt tread his guts out too' [See letter of Nov. 4, 1758, 5 (Mr. Potter).] To Zachariah Yewdull [27] DUBLIN, June 20, 1789. DEAR ZACHARY, -- You have chose an admirably good advocate in honest Alexander Mather. I shall blame you if you cannot plead your own cause when you have him at your elbows, especially when you know you have another friend standing behind the curtain. For with regard to circuits to be assigned, or any other assistance you may be assured of anything that is in the power of Your affectionate brother. To Mr. Yewdall, In South Wynd, In Edinburgh, P. Portpatrick. To George Holder [28] DUBLIN, June 24, 1789.