Wesley Corpus

adds, is a mere play upon words: “Does Mr. W., by this looser merit, mean a merit that does not merit?” Yes; by terming a work meritorious in this improper sense, I do not mean, that it merits or deserves a reward in the proper sense of the word. Instances of the word taken in this improper sense occur all over the Bible. “This is shamefully evasive.” No more than it is Greek. It is a plain, rational, solid distinction; and it holds with regard to numberless words in all languages, which may be taken cither in a proper or improper sense. When I say, “I do not grant that works are meritorious, even when accompanied by faith,” I take that word in a proper sense. But others take it in an improper, as nearly equivalent with rewardable. Here, therefore, I no more contradict Mr. Fletcher than I do myself. Least of all do I plead, as Mr. H. roundly affirms, “for justification by the merit of my own good works.” (Page 52.) Of Marriage. 34. “Mr. W. says, his thoughts on a single life are just the same they have been these thirty years.” (I mean, with regard to the advantages which attend that state in general.) “Why then did he marry?” (Page 39.) I answered short, “For reasons best known to himself.” As much as to say, I judge it extremely impertinent for any but a superior to ask me the question. So the harmless raillery which Mr. H. pleases himself with upon this occasion may stand just as it is. Concerning Dress. 35. “Mr. W.