Wesley Corpus

against it. Rather, be glad to see more than you did before; to “have the eyes of your understanding opened.” Receive the truth in the love thereof, and you will have reason to bless God for ever. II. 1. Not that I would advise you to imitate the people called Quakers in those little particularities of dress which can answer no possible end but to distinguish them from all other people. To be singular, merely for singularity’s sake, is not the part of a Christian: I do not, therefore, advise you to wear a hat of such dimensions, or a coat of a particular form. Rather, in things that are absolutely indifferent, that are of no consequence at all, humility and courtesy require you to conform to the customs of your country. 2. But I advise you to imitate them, First, in the meatness of their apparel. This is highly to be commended, and quite suitable to your Christian calling. Let all your apparel, therefore, be as clean as your situation in life will allow. It is certain the poor cannot be as clean as they would, as having little change of raiment. But let even these be as clean as they can, as care and diligence can keep them. Indeed, they have particular need so to be; because cleanli mess is one great branch of frugality. It is likewise more conducive to health than is generally considered. Let the poor, then, especially labour to be clean, and provoke those of higher rank to jealousy. 3. I advise you to imitate them, Secondly, in the plainness of their apparel. In this are implied two things: (1.) That your apparel be cheap, not expensive; far cheaper than others in your circumstances wear, or than you would wear, if you knew not God: (2.) That it be grave, not gay, airy, or showy; not in the point of the fashion. And these easy rules may be applied both to the materials whereof it is made, and the manner wherein it is made or put on. 4. Would you have a farther rule with respect to both? Then take one, whicl. you may always carry in your bosom : “Do everything herein with a single eye;” and this will direct you in every circumstance.