Wesley Corpus

We rode to Durham, and thence, through very rough roads, and as rough weather, to Barnard Castle. I was exceeding faint when we came in: however, the time being come, I went into the street, and would have preached ; but the mob was so numerous and so loud, chat it was not possible for many to hear. Nevertheless, I spoke on, and those who were near, listened with huge attention. To prevent this, some of the rabble fetched the engine, and threw a good deal of water on the congregation; but not a drop fell on me. After about three quarters of an hour, I returned into the house. At five the preaching house would not contain one half of the congregation. Many stood at the door and windows ; far more thun could hear. When I come again, perhaps they will hear while they may. We rode hence to Weardale. I had been out of order all night, and found myself now much weaker. However, I trusted in the Strong for strength, and began preaching to a numerous congregation: and I did not want strength, till I had finished my discourse ; nor did the people want a blessing. In the evening we came to Allandale, and found the poor society well nigh shattered in pieces. Slackness and offence had eaten them up. When I came into the room, I was just like one of them; having neither life nor strength, and being scarce able June, 1752. REV. J. WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 535 either to speak or to stand. But immediately we had a token for good. In a moment I was well. My voice and strength were entirely restored; and I cried aloud, " How shall I give thee up, Ephraim?" The mountains again flowed down at his presence, and the rocks were once more broken in pieces.