Wesley Corpus

Accordingly, a gentleman in Cornwall (the Rector of Redruth) extends the calculation pretty considerably. “Let me see,” said he: “Two millions of Methodists; and each of these paying two-pence a week.” If so, I must have eight hundred and sixty thousand pounds, with some odd shillings and pence, a-year. * We now (1772) lend any sum not exceeding five pounds. 6. A tolerable competence | But be it more or less, it is nothing at all to me. All that is contributed or collected in every place is both received and expended by others; nor have I so much as the “beholding thereof with my eyes.” And so it will be, till I turn Turk or Pagan. For I look upon all this revenue, be it what it may, as sacred to God and the poor; out of which, if I want anything, I am relieved, even as another poor man. So were originally all ecclesiastical revenues, as every man of learning knows: And the Bishops and Priests used them only as such. If any use them otherwise now, God help them ! 7. I doubt not, but if I err in this, or any other point, you will pray God to show me his truth. To have “a conscience void of offence toward God and toward man” is the desire of, Reverend and dear Sir, Your affectionate brother and servant,