Wesley Corpus

And I could not but observe, that all these times he never blamed any one but himself. He did not appear to have the least touch of resentment to any man, receiving everything as at the hand of God. 6. On Wednesday (two days before his death) I paid him one visit more. As we were talking, Mrs. Dodd came in; but when she came near him, she sunk down. He catched her in his arms, and carried her to a chair; but had such a command over himself, that his eyes only spoke, though without tears, being afraid of adding to her distress. I now told him, “Sir, I think you do not ask enough, or expect enough, from God, your Saviour. The present blessing you may expect from him is, to be filled with all joy, as well as peace in believing.” “O Sir,” said he, “it is not for such a sinner as me to expect any joy in this world. The utmost I can desire is peace; and, through the mercy of God, that I have.” We then spent a little time in prayer, and I solemnly commended him to God. 7. On Friday morning all the prisoners were gathered together, when he came down into the court. He seemed entirely composed. But when he observed most of them lifting up their hands, praying for him, blessing him, and weeping aloud, he was melted down, burst into tears too, and prayed God to bless them all. When he came out of the gate, an innumerable multitude were waiting, many of whom seemed ready to insult him. But the moment they saw him, their hearts were changed, and they began to bless him and pray for him too. A Clergyman, (Mr. P.,) being desirous to see the last of him, pressed on, though with much difficulty and danger, and kept near him quite to the place of execution. One of his fellow-prisoners seemed to be in utter despair. Dr. Dodd, forgetting himself, laboured to comfort him; and strongly applied the promises. After some time spent in prayer, he pulled his cap over his eyes; and, sinking down, seemed to die in a moment. I make no doubt, but in that moment the angels were ready to carry him into Abraham’s bosom. JOHN WESLEY.