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, or Tale. UPON-TYNE, &c. 1. IN the latter end of the year 1739, eight or ten persons came to me in London, who appeared to be deeply convinced of sin, and earnestly groaning for redemption. They desired (as did two or three more the next day) that I would spend some time with them in prayer, and advise them how to flee from the wrath to come; which they saw continually hanging over their heads. That we might have more time for this great work, I appointed a day when they might all come toge ther, which from thenceforward they did every week, namely, on Thursday, in the evening. To these, and as many more as desired to join with them, (for their number increased daily,) I gave those advices, from time to time, which I judged most needful for them; and we always concluded our meeting with prayer suited to their several necessities. 2.