Wesley Corpus

But I did not see that I could refuse them my help, and be guiltless before God. Here commenced my power; namely, a power to appoint when, and where, and how they should meet; and to remove those whose lives showed that they had not a desire “to flee from the wrath to come.” And this power remained the same, whether the people meeting together were twelve, or twelve hundred, or twelve thousand. (2.) In a few days some of them said, “Sir, we will not sit under you for nothing; we will subscribe quarterly.” I said, “I will have nothing; for I want nothing. My Fellowship sup plies me with all I want.” One replied, “Nay, but you want a hundred and fifteen pounds to pay for the lease of the Foun dery; and likewise a large sum of money to put it into repair.” On this consideration, I suffered them to subscribe. And when the society met, I asked, “Who will take the trouble of receiv ing this money, and paying it where it is needful?” One said, “I will do it, and keep the account for you.” So here was the first Steward. Afterwards, I desired one or two more to help me, as Stewards, and, in process of time, a greater number. Let it be remarked, it was I myself, not the people, who chose these Stewards, and appointed to each the distinct work wherein he was to help me, as long as I desired. And herein I began to exercise another sort of power; namely, that of appointing and removing Stewards. (3.) After a time a young man, named Thomas Maxfield, came and desired to help me as a son in the gospel. Soon after came a second, Thomas Richards; and then a third, Thomas Westell. These severally desired to serve me as sons, and to labour when and where I should direct. Observe: These like wise desired me, not I them. But I durst not refuse their assist ance. And here commenced my power, to appoint each of these when, and where, and how to labour; that is, while he chose to continue with me. For each had a power to go away when he pleased; as I had also, to go away from them, or any of them, if I saw sufficient cause.