Wesley Corpus

At five, the hill on which I designed to preach was covered, from the top to the bottom. I never saw so large a number of people together, either in Moorfields, or at Kennington Common. I knew it was not possible for the one half to hear, although my voice was then strong and clear ; and I stood so as to have them all in view, as they were ranged on the side of the hill. The word of God which I set before them was, "I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely." After preaching, the poor people were ready to tread me under foot, out of pure love and kindness. It was some time before I could possibly get out of the press. I then went back another way:than I came; but several were got to our inn before me; by whom I was vehemently importuned to stay with them, at least, a few days ; or, however, one day more. But I could not consent; having given my word to be at Birstal, with God's leave, on Tuesday night. Some of these told me, they were members of a religious society, which had subsisted for many years, and had always gone on in a prudent, regular manner, and been well spoken of by all men. They likewise informed me what a fine library they had; and that the steward read a sermon every Sunday And yet how many of the publicans and herlots will go into the kingdom of heaven before these ! About three I left Newcastle. I read over to-day the famous Dr. Pitcairn's Works ; but I was utterly disappointed by that dry, sour, controversial book. We came in the evening to Boroughpridge, where, to my great surprise, the mistress of the house. though Journal I. 17 he? eee 204 REV. J. WESLEY'S JOURNAL. June, 1742. - much of a gentlewoman, desired she and her family might join with us in prayer. They did so likewise between four and five in the morning. Perhaps even this seed may bring forth fruit.