[363]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 354. It may be added, that, in 1775, Dr. Conyers became rector of Deptford, where he converted his coach-house and stable into a domestic chapel, and established lectures four nights every week. On April 23, 1786, after preaching to a crowded congregation in Deptford church, and while pronouncing the benediction, his speech faltered; he was taken home; and, within four hours afterwards, he was in heaven.[364]After all, this was an ecclesiastical peccadillo. The following is an extract from the seventy-fourth canon of the Church of England, and has never been repealed. “All deans, masters of colleges, archdeacons and prebendaries, doctors in divinity, bachelors in divinity, and masters of arts, having any ecclesiastical livings, shall usually wear, in their journeys, cloaks with sleeves, without gards, welts, long buttons, or cuts. And no ecclesiastical person shall wear any coif or wrought nightcap, but only plain nightcaps of black silk, satin, or velvet. In private houses and in their studies, the said persons ecclesiastical may use any comely and scholarlike apparel, provided that it be not cut or pinckt, and that in public they go not in their doublet and hose, without coats or cassocks; and that they wear not anylight coloured stockings.” How is it that the ritualists of the present day disregard this canon of their church?[365]Stevens’s “History of Methodism,” vol. ii., p. 19.[366]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 168.[367]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 104; and 1833, p. 52.[368]Wesley’s Works, vol. ix., p. 104. In the year following, Mr. Downes’s widow published a letter against Wesley, which, says he, “scarce deserves any notice at all, as there is nothing extraordinary in it, but an extraordinary degree of virulence and scurrility.” (Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 24, 1760.)[369]C. Wesley’s Journal, vol. ii., p. 245.[370]S. Francks’ manuscript letter.[371]Manuscript.[372]Wesley’s Works, vol. xi., p. 378, etc.[373]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 390.[374]Irish Evangelist, Nov. 1, 1860.[375]London Magazine, 1760, p. 147.[376]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 176.[377]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 499.[378]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 305.[379]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 111.[380]I sayprobably. I think it possible that Wesley used the word “Sussex” in mistake for “Kentish.”[381]London Magazine, 1761, p. 413;Lloyd’s Evening Post, July 1, 1761.[382]Methodist Magazine, 1848, p. 1227; and manuscript letter, kindly lent by Mr. G. Stevenson.[383]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 112.[384]Mr. Newton now filled the office of tide surveyor at Liverpool, and was in possession of a comfortable salary. In this same year, 1760, he published a volume of his sermons, though he was not ordained for four years afterwards. The emoluments of his Olney curacy were only £60 per annum. (“Life of Rev. John Newton.”)[385]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 441.[386]Walpole’s Letters, vol. iii.; andLondon MagazineandChristian Magazine, for 1760.[387]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 459.[388]Everett’s Folio, vol. iii., p. 451.[389]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 24, 1760.[390]Nichols’ Literary Anecdotes, vol. viii., p. 229; andGentleman’s Magazine, 1761, p. 286.[391]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 24, 1760.[392]Monthly Review, 1761, p. 473.[393]One of Wesley’s letters is given on p. 244 of this volume.[394]Pp. 296-299.[395]P. 470.[396]P. 472.[397]P. 516.[398]P. 586.[399]P. 690.[400]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 17, 1760.[401]Widow of the Rev. John Downes, whose attack on Methodism is mentioned on p. 342 of this volume.[402]The Rev. Alexander Jephson.[403]Dr. Green, dean of Lincoln.[404]Author of “Caveat against the Methodists,” which I have not seen.[405]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Dec. 1, 1760.[406]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Dec. 24, 1760.[407]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 334.[408]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 386.[409]Jackson’s Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 180.[410]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 183.[411]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 184.[412]Ibid. p. 185.[413]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 186.[414]Ibid. p. 188.[415]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 191.[416]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 196.[417]Methodist Magazine, 1848, p. 1205.[418]This list is taken, chiefly, from Myles’s “Chronological History”; but it is far from being perfect.[419]Methodist Magazine, 1806, p. 518.[420]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 329.[421]This wretched man, in 1761, published a silly octavo two-shilling pamphlet, entitled, “Union: or, a Treatise of the Consanguinity and Affinity between Christ and His Church.” TheMonthly Reviewof that period, p. 87, observes:—“The author says he is quiteabove uncertainty, in respect of the matter and scope of his treatise; but freely owns his defects as a writer,—which are, indeed, so many and so great, that he does not even ‘pretend to the abilities offalliableauthors.’ However, if some ‘busy critic, whose genius leads him ever in search of offal, or thepidlingpedant, who feeds on garbage,’ should pretend to detect in his book, not only bad grammar (of which there is plenty), but inaccuracies in phrase and errors in judgment, yet, he says, he has ‘aninfalliableremedy in silence.’” Other particulars of this mischievous antinomian could easily be given; but suffice it to add that, in 1764, a case came before the lord chancellor, in Lincoln’s Inn, in which a Yorkshire lady was plaintiff, and James Relly and others were defendants. The allegations of the plaintiff were—(1) that Relly had fraudulently obtained from her, while she was labouring under a fit of enthusiastic frenzy, a deed securing to him an annuity of £5 per annum for his life, without giving to her any valuable consideration; and (2) that, in addition to this deed, Relly had received from her a considerable sum of money, under the like circumstance. The hall, at the hearing of the case, was crowded; and the decision of the court, which gave great satisfaction, was that the deed be cancelled, and the money be refunded. (London Magazine, 1764, p. 654.)[422]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 670.[423]At this period, the Rev. Henry Venn had recently removed from Clapham to Huddersfield, where his church became crowded to such an extent, that many were not able to procure admission. His irregularities were such as the following. He would often address the congregation from the desk, briefly explaining and enforcing the psalms and the lessons. He would frequentlybeginthe service with a solemn, extemporised exhortation. Instead of reading his sermons, he only used short notes. He statedly visited, on the week days, the different hamlets in his extensive parish, and held service in private houses. (Venn’s Life, p. 26.)[424]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 672.[425]Methodist Magazine, 1781, p. 219.[426]Ibid. 1781, p. 143.[427]Methodist Magazine, 1846, p. 1188.[428]Methodist Magazine, 1781, p. 142.[429]Ibid. 1827, p. 428.[430]“History of Methodism in Darlington,” p. 17.[431]Private manuscripts, and Wilson’s “Dissenting Churches.”[432]Dixon’s “Methodism in America,” p. 75.[433]Atmore’s “Methodist Memorial.”[434]Jacob Rowell’s manuscripts. The following are some of the entries in Yarm society book, for 1761:—“Mr. Fugill’s and Mr. Wesley’s charges, 13s.8d.Paid the lad for dressing the horses, 1s.6d.Half a pound oflickrishfor Mr. Megget’s horse, 6d.A pound and a half of candles, 9d.Preacher’s watch mending, 2s.3d.Lousinga letter, 4d.”[435]“History of Methodism in Darlington.”[436]Methodist Magazine, 1808, p. 88.[437]Ibid. 1810, p. 216.[438]Memoir of Cussons, p. 6.[439]Manuscript.[440]Methodist Magazine, 1826, p. 595.[441]An idea of the low state of Methodism at York may be formed from a fact, stated in the old society book, namely, that the seat rents of the chapel amounted to only £8 per year; that the monthly collections averaged not more than about 5s.8d.each; and the class moneys hardly 6s.6d.weekly.[442]Methodist Magazine, 1827, p. 225.[443]Ibid. 1845, p. 116.[444]Old newspaper.[445]Everett’s “Methodism in Sheffield.”[446]Manuscript.[447]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 224. We have before us two unpublished letters, written by Alexander Coates to Wesley, and dated respectively “July 14, 1761,” and “September 29, 1761.” Both refer to the points which Wesley here mentions; but the letters, though deeply interesting, are too lengthy for insertion. Suffice it to say, that Sandy Coates believed that he would be sanctified just before he had to die; and that, meanwhile, it was his “duty and his privilege to persevere in grace.” He confesses, that Wesley’s “perfect folk” gave him but little satisfaction, and that he had received tempting offers, both at London and Leeds, to leave the Methodists; but he had no intention of doing so. Coates, as his letters show, was a good man, with great courage and independency of thought; but though he read several languages, he was without any mental discipline. No doubt, he was serviceable in saving souls; but he was utterly unfit for the professor’s chair; and to think of him solving the vexed questions which were now agitating the Methodists was simply ridiculous.[448]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 177.[449]Ibid. p. 178.[450]Manuscript.[451]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 113.[452]Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 331.[453]At the first Methodist conference, in 1744, it was asked, “Is faith the condition, or the instrument, of sanctification?” And it was answered, “It is both the condition and instrument of it. When we begin to believe, then sanctification begins; and as faith increases, holiness increases, till we are created anew.”[454]Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 332.[455]Methodist Magazine, 1781, p. 390.[456]Methodist Magazine, 1783, p. 106.[457]Ibid. 1782, p. 272.[458]Whitehead’s Life of Wesley, vol. ii., p. 297.[459]Ibid. p. 298.[460]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 113.[461]London Magazine, 1761, p. 19.[462]Ibid. p. 36.[463]Ibid. p. 35.[464]Ibid. p. 91.[465]Ibid. p. 91; also Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 371.[466]London Magazine, 1761, p. 356.[467]Manuscript letter of J. Pawson.[468]Methodist Magazine, 1782, pp. 157, 386; and 1783, p. 328.[469]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 149.[470]Moore’s Life of Wesley, vol. ii., p. 218.[471]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 385.[472]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 120.[473]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 674.[474]Maxfield’s “Vindication,” p. 14.[475]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 117.[476]Methodist Magazine, 1790, p. 42.[477]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 76.[478]Methodist Magazine, 1795, p. 50.[479]Maxfield’s “Vindication,” p. 16.[480]Manuscript.[481]London Chronicle, Feb. 26, 1763; andLondon Magazine, 1763, p. 162.[482]Whitefield’s Works, vol. iii., p. 287.[483]Lloyd’s Evening Post, March 2, 1763.[484]Ibid. March 21, 1763.[485]Wesley’s Works, vol. iv., p. 232.[486]Jackson’s Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 210.[487]Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 333.[488]Reilly’s “Memoir of an Actor.”[489]“Life and Times of Countess of Huntingdon,” vol. i., p. 281. Grimshaw had died triumphantly four months before.[490]Christian Miscellany, 1865, p. 284.[491]Methodist Magazine, 1865, p. 985.[492]Methodist Magazine, 1856, p. 988.[493]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 342.[494]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 193.[495]Methodist Magazine, 1783, p. 108.[496]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 115.[497]Ibid. p. 116.[498]Monthly Review, 1762.[499]Monthly Review, 1762.[500]London Chronicle, Jan. 8, 1763.[501]London Chronicle, Jan. 15, 1763.[502]Ibid. Feb. 10, 1763.[503]Whitehead’s Life of Wesley, vol ii., p. 299.[504]Methodist Magazine, 1794, p. 565.[505]Ibid. 1794, p. 566.[506]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 116.[507]Ibid vol. xii., pp. 116, 117.[508]“Life and Times of Countess of Huntingdon,” vol. i., p. 329.[509]“Life and Times of Countess of Huntingdon,” vol. i., p. 330.[510]Methodist Magazine, 1795, p. 49.[511]Ibid. p. 151.[512]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 351.[513]London Magazine, 1763, p. 48.[514]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Jan. 26, 1763.[515]For a full account of the society, see the “Life and Times of the Rev. Samuel Wesley,” pp. 213-224.[516]The figures were: Whitefield’s followers, about 20; Wesley’s, about 50; Churchmen, about 20; Dissenters, about 70.[517]London Chronicle, April 5, 1763.[518]The reason of this was the excited state of the London Methodists. Hence, the following extract from an unpublished letter, kindly lent by Charles Reed, Esq., M.P.“London,March 21, 1763.“My dear Sister,—My coming into the country is quite uncertain, till I see what turn things here will take. I am glad to hear the work of God prospers among you; etc.“J. Wesley.”[519]Methodist Magazine, 1782, p. 443.[520]Lady Maxwell’s Life.[521]Lady Glenorchy’s Life.[522]Myles’s “Chronological History.”[523]Manuscript letter.[524]Ward’s “Strictures.”[525]Rev. Valentine Ward’s manuscript diary.[526]Methodist Magazine, 1813, p. 74.[527]Methodist Magazine, 1782, p. 216.[528]“Minutes of Several Conversations,” etc. 1763: 12mo. 30 pages. P. 2.[529]“Minutes of Several Conversations,” etc. 1763: 12mo. 30 pages. P. 3.[530]Ibid. p. 4.[531]Ibid. p. 5.[532]Ibid. p. 6.[533]Ibid. p. 6.[534]Ibid. p. 7.
[363]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 354. It may be added, that, in 1775, Dr. Conyers became rector of Deptford, where he converted his coach-house and stable into a domestic chapel, and established lectures four nights every week. On April 23, 1786, after preaching to a crowded congregation in Deptford church, and while pronouncing the benediction, his speech faltered; he was taken home; and, within four hours afterwards, he was in heaven.
[363]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 354. It may be added, that, in 1775, Dr. Conyers became rector of Deptford, where he converted his coach-house and stable into a domestic chapel, and established lectures four nights every week. On April 23, 1786, after preaching to a crowded congregation in Deptford church, and while pronouncing the benediction, his speech faltered; he was taken home; and, within four hours afterwards, he was in heaven.
[364]After all, this was an ecclesiastical peccadillo. The following is an extract from the seventy-fourth canon of the Church of England, and has never been repealed. “All deans, masters of colleges, archdeacons and prebendaries, doctors in divinity, bachelors in divinity, and masters of arts, having any ecclesiastical livings, shall usually wear, in their journeys, cloaks with sleeves, without gards, welts, long buttons, or cuts. And no ecclesiastical person shall wear any coif or wrought nightcap, but only plain nightcaps of black silk, satin, or velvet. In private houses and in their studies, the said persons ecclesiastical may use any comely and scholarlike apparel, provided that it be not cut or pinckt, and that in public they go not in their doublet and hose, without coats or cassocks; and that they wear not anylight coloured stockings.” How is it that the ritualists of the present day disregard this canon of their church?
[364]After all, this was an ecclesiastical peccadillo. The following is an extract from the seventy-fourth canon of the Church of England, and has never been repealed. “All deans, masters of colleges, archdeacons and prebendaries, doctors in divinity, bachelors in divinity, and masters of arts, having any ecclesiastical livings, shall usually wear, in their journeys, cloaks with sleeves, without gards, welts, long buttons, or cuts. And no ecclesiastical person shall wear any coif or wrought nightcap, but only plain nightcaps of black silk, satin, or velvet. In private houses and in their studies, the said persons ecclesiastical may use any comely and scholarlike apparel, provided that it be not cut or pinckt, and that in public they go not in their doublet and hose, without coats or cassocks; and that they wear not anylight coloured stockings.” How is it that the ritualists of the present day disregard this canon of their church?
[365]Stevens’s “History of Methodism,” vol. ii., p. 19.
[365]Stevens’s “History of Methodism,” vol. ii., p. 19.
[366]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 168.
[366]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 168.
[367]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 104; and 1833, p. 52.
[367]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 104; and 1833, p. 52.
[368]Wesley’s Works, vol. ix., p. 104. In the year following, Mr. Downes’s widow published a letter against Wesley, which, says he, “scarce deserves any notice at all, as there is nothing extraordinary in it, but an extraordinary degree of virulence and scurrility.” (Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 24, 1760.)
[368]Wesley’s Works, vol. ix., p. 104. In the year following, Mr. Downes’s widow published a letter against Wesley, which, says he, “scarce deserves any notice at all, as there is nothing extraordinary in it, but an extraordinary degree of virulence and scurrility.” (Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 24, 1760.)
[369]C. Wesley’s Journal, vol. ii., p. 245.
[369]C. Wesley’s Journal, vol. ii., p. 245.
[370]S. Francks’ manuscript letter.
[370]S. Francks’ manuscript letter.
[371]Manuscript.
[371]Manuscript.
[372]Wesley’s Works, vol. xi., p. 378, etc.
[372]Wesley’s Works, vol. xi., p. 378, etc.
[373]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 390.
[373]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 390.
[374]Irish Evangelist, Nov. 1, 1860.
[374]Irish Evangelist, Nov. 1, 1860.
[375]London Magazine, 1760, p. 147.
[375]London Magazine, 1760, p. 147.
[376]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 176.
[376]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 176.
[377]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 499.
[377]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 499.
[378]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 305.
[378]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 305.
[379]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 111.
[379]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 111.
[380]I sayprobably. I think it possible that Wesley used the word “Sussex” in mistake for “Kentish.”
[380]I sayprobably. I think it possible that Wesley used the word “Sussex” in mistake for “Kentish.”
[381]London Magazine, 1761, p. 413;Lloyd’s Evening Post, July 1, 1761.
[381]London Magazine, 1761, p. 413;Lloyd’s Evening Post, July 1, 1761.
[382]Methodist Magazine, 1848, p. 1227; and manuscript letter, kindly lent by Mr. G. Stevenson.
[382]Methodist Magazine, 1848, p. 1227; and manuscript letter, kindly lent by Mr. G. Stevenson.
[383]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 112.
[383]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 112.
[384]Mr. Newton now filled the office of tide surveyor at Liverpool, and was in possession of a comfortable salary. In this same year, 1760, he published a volume of his sermons, though he was not ordained for four years afterwards. The emoluments of his Olney curacy were only £60 per annum. (“Life of Rev. John Newton.”)
[384]Mr. Newton now filled the office of tide surveyor at Liverpool, and was in possession of a comfortable salary. In this same year, 1760, he published a volume of his sermons, though he was not ordained for four years afterwards. The emoluments of his Olney curacy were only £60 per annum. (“Life of Rev. John Newton.”)
[385]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 441.
[385]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 441.
[386]Walpole’s Letters, vol. iii.; andLondon MagazineandChristian Magazine, for 1760.
[386]Walpole’s Letters, vol. iii.; andLondon MagazineandChristian Magazine, for 1760.
[387]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 459.
[387]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 459.
[388]Everett’s Folio, vol. iii., p. 451.
[388]Everett’s Folio, vol. iii., p. 451.
[389]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 24, 1760.
[389]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 24, 1760.
[390]Nichols’ Literary Anecdotes, vol. viii., p. 229; andGentleman’s Magazine, 1761, p. 286.
[390]Nichols’ Literary Anecdotes, vol. viii., p. 229; andGentleman’s Magazine, 1761, p. 286.
[391]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 24, 1760.
[391]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 24, 1760.
[392]Monthly Review, 1761, p. 473.
[392]Monthly Review, 1761, p. 473.
[393]One of Wesley’s letters is given on p. 244 of this volume.
[393]One of Wesley’s letters is given on p. 244 of this volume.
[394]Pp. 296-299.
[394]Pp. 296-299.
[395]P. 470.
[395]P. 470.
[396]P. 472.
[396]P. 472.
[397]P. 516.
[397]P. 516.
[398]P. 586.
[398]P. 586.
[399]P. 690.
[399]P. 690.
[400]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 17, 1760.
[400]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Nov. 17, 1760.
[401]Widow of the Rev. John Downes, whose attack on Methodism is mentioned on p. 342 of this volume.
[401]Widow of the Rev. John Downes, whose attack on Methodism is mentioned on p. 342 of this volume.
[402]The Rev. Alexander Jephson.
[402]The Rev. Alexander Jephson.
[403]Dr. Green, dean of Lincoln.
[403]Dr. Green, dean of Lincoln.
[404]Author of “Caveat against the Methodists,” which I have not seen.
[404]Author of “Caveat against the Methodists,” which I have not seen.
[405]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Dec. 1, 1760.
[405]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Dec. 1, 1760.
[406]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Dec. 24, 1760.
[406]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Dec. 24, 1760.
[407]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 334.
[407]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 334.
[408]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 386.
[408]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 386.
[409]Jackson’s Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 180.
[409]Jackson’s Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 180.
[410]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 183.
[410]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 183.
[411]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 184.
[411]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 184.
[412]Ibid. p. 185.
[412]Ibid. p. 185.
[413]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 186.
[413]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 186.
[414]Ibid. p. 188.
[414]Ibid. p. 188.
[415]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 191.
[415]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 191.
[416]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 196.
[416]Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 196.
[417]Methodist Magazine, 1848, p. 1205.
[417]Methodist Magazine, 1848, p. 1205.
[418]This list is taken, chiefly, from Myles’s “Chronological History”; but it is far from being perfect.
[418]This list is taken, chiefly, from Myles’s “Chronological History”; but it is far from being perfect.
[419]Methodist Magazine, 1806, p. 518.
[419]Methodist Magazine, 1806, p. 518.
[420]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 329.
[420]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 329.
[421]This wretched man, in 1761, published a silly octavo two-shilling pamphlet, entitled, “Union: or, a Treatise of the Consanguinity and Affinity between Christ and His Church.” TheMonthly Reviewof that period, p. 87, observes:—“The author says he is quiteabove uncertainty, in respect of the matter and scope of his treatise; but freely owns his defects as a writer,—which are, indeed, so many and so great, that he does not even ‘pretend to the abilities offalliableauthors.’ However, if some ‘busy critic, whose genius leads him ever in search of offal, or thepidlingpedant, who feeds on garbage,’ should pretend to detect in his book, not only bad grammar (of which there is plenty), but inaccuracies in phrase and errors in judgment, yet, he says, he has ‘aninfalliableremedy in silence.’” Other particulars of this mischievous antinomian could easily be given; but suffice it to add that, in 1764, a case came before the lord chancellor, in Lincoln’s Inn, in which a Yorkshire lady was plaintiff, and James Relly and others were defendants. The allegations of the plaintiff were—(1) that Relly had fraudulently obtained from her, while she was labouring under a fit of enthusiastic frenzy, a deed securing to him an annuity of £5 per annum for his life, without giving to her any valuable consideration; and (2) that, in addition to this deed, Relly had received from her a considerable sum of money, under the like circumstance. The hall, at the hearing of the case, was crowded; and the decision of the court, which gave great satisfaction, was that the deed be cancelled, and the money be refunded. (London Magazine, 1764, p. 654.)
[421]This wretched man, in 1761, published a silly octavo two-shilling pamphlet, entitled, “Union: or, a Treatise of the Consanguinity and Affinity between Christ and His Church.” TheMonthly Reviewof that period, p. 87, observes:—“The author says he is quiteabove uncertainty, in respect of the matter and scope of his treatise; but freely owns his defects as a writer,—which are, indeed, so many and so great, that he does not even ‘pretend to the abilities offalliableauthors.’ However, if some ‘busy critic, whose genius leads him ever in search of offal, or thepidlingpedant, who feeds on garbage,’ should pretend to detect in his book, not only bad grammar (of which there is plenty), but inaccuracies in phrase and errors in judgment, yet, he says, he has ‘aninfalliableremedy in silence.’” Other particulars of this mischievous antinomian could easily be given; but suffice it to add that, in 1764, a case came before the lord chancellor, in Lincoln’s Inn, in which a Yorkshire lady was plaintiff, and James Relly and others were defendants. The allegations of the plaintiff were—(1) that Relly had fraudulently obtained from her, while she was labouring under a fit of enthusiastic frenzy, a deed securing to him an annuity of £5 per annum for his life, without giving to her any valuable consideration; and (2) that, in addition to this deed, Relly had received from her a considerable sum of money, under the like circumstance. The hall, at the hearing of the case, was crowded; and the decision of the court, which gave great satisfaction, was that the deed be cancelled, and the money be refunded. (London Magazine, 1764, p. 654.)
[422]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 670.
[422]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 670.
[423]At this period, the Rev. Henry Venn had recently removed from Clapham to Huddersfield, where his church became crowded to such an extent, that many were not able to procure admission. His irregularities were such as the following. He would often address the congregation from the desk, briefly explaining and enforcing the psalms and the lessons. He would frequentlybeginthe service with a solemn, extemporised exhortation. Instead of reading his sermons, he only used short notes. He statedly visited, on the week days, the different hamlets in his extensive parish, and held service in private houses. (Venn’s Life, p. 26.)
[423]At this period, the Rev. Henry Venn had recently removed from Clapham to Huddersfield, where his church became crowded to such an extent, that many were not able to procure admission. His irregularities were such as the following. He would often address the congregation from the desk, briefly explaining and enforcing the psalms and the lessons. He would frequentlybeginthe service with a solemn, extemporised exhortation. Instead of reading his sermons, he only used short notes. He statedly visited, on the week days, the different hamlets in his extensive parish, and held service in private houses. (Venn’s Life, p. 26.)
[424]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 672.
[424]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 672.
[425]Methodist Magazine, 1781, p. 219.
[425]Methodist Magazine, 1781, p. 219.
[426]Ibid. 1781, p. 143.
[426]Ibid. 1781, p. 143.
[427]Methodist Magazine, 1846, p. 1188.
[427]Methodist Magazine, 1846, p. 1188.
[428]Methodist Magazine, 1781, p. 142.
[428]Methodist Magazine, 1781, p. 142.
[429]Ibid. 1827, p. 428.
[429]Ibid. 1827, p. 428.
[430]“History of Methodism in Darlington,” p. 17.
[430]“History of Methodism in Darlington,” p. 17.
[431]Private manuscripts, and Wilson’s “Dissenting Churches.”
[431]Private manuscripts, and Wilson’s “Dissenting Churches.”
[432]Dixon’s “Methodism in America,” p. 75.
[432]Dixon’s “Methodism in America,” p. 75.
[433]Atmore’s “Methodist Memorial.”
[433]Atmore’s “Methodist Memorial.”
[434]Jacob Rowell’s manuscripts. The following are some of the entries in Yarm society book, for 1761:—“Mr. Fugill’s and Mr. Wesley’s charges, 13s.8d.Paid the lad for dressing the horses, 1s.6d.Half a pound oflickrishfor Mr. Megget’s horse, 6d.A pound and a half of candles, 9d.Preacher’s watch mending, 2s.3d.Lousinga letter, 4d.”
[434]Jacob Rowell’s manuscripts. The following are some of the entries in Yarm society book, for 1761:—“Mr. Fugill’s and Mr. Wesley’s charges, 13s.8d.Paid the lad for dressing the horses, 1s.6d.Half a pound oflickrishfor Mr. Megget’s horse, 6d.A pound and a half of candles, 9d.Preacher’s watch mending, 2s.3d.Lousinga letter, 4d.”
[435]“History of Methodism in Darlington.”
[435]“History of Methodism in Darlington.”
[436]Methodist Magazine, 1808, p. 88.
[436]Methodist Magazine, 1808, p. 88.
[437]Ibid. 1810, p. 216.
[437]Ibid. 1810, p. 216.
[438]Memoir of Cussons, p. 6.
[438]Memoir of Cussons, p. 6.
[439]Manuscript.
[439]Manuscript.
[440]Methodist Magazine, 1826, p. 595.
[440]Methodist Magazine, 1826, p. 595.
[441]An idea of the low state of Methodism at York may be formed from a fact, stated in the old society book, namely, that the seat rents of the chapel amounted to only £8 per year; that the monthly collections averaged not more than about 5s.8d.each; and the class moneys hardly 6s.6d.weekly.
[441]An idea of the low state of Methodism at York may be formed from a fact, stated in the old society book, namely, that the seat rents of the chapel amounted to only £8 per year; that the monthly collections averaged not more than about 5s.8d.each; and the class moneys hardly 6s.6d.weekly.
[442]Methodist Magazine, 1827, p. 225.
[442]Methodist Magazine, 1827, p. 225.
[443]Ibid. 1845, p. 116.
[443]Ibid. 1845, p. 116.
[444]Old newspaper.
[444]Old newspaper.
[445]Everett’s “Methodism in Sheffield.”
[445]Everett’s “Methodism in Sheffield.”
[446]Manuscript.
[446]Manuscript.
[447]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 224. We have before us two unpublished letters, written by Alexander Coates to Wesley, and dated respectively “July 14, 1761,” and “September 29, 1761.” Both refer to the points which Wesley here mentions; but the letters, though deeply interesting, are too lengthy for insertion. Suffice it to say, that Sandy Coates believed that he would be sanctified just before he had to die; and that, meanwhile, it was his “duty and his privilege to persevere in grace.” He confesses, that Wesley’s “perfect folk” gave him but little satisfaction, and that he had received tempting offers, both at London and Leeds, to leave the Methodists; but he had no intention of doing so. Coates, as his letters show, was a good man, with great courage and independency of thought; but though he read several languages, he was without any mental discipline. No doubt, he was serviceable in saving souls; but he was utterly unfit for the professor’s chair; and to think of him solving the vexed questions which were now agitating the Methodists was simply ridiculous.
[447]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 224. We have before us two unpublished letters, written by Alexander Coates to Wesley, and dated respectively “July 14, 1761,” and “September 29, 1761.” Both refer to the points which Wesley here mentions; but the letters, though deeply interesting, are too lengthy for insertion. Suffice it to say, that Sandy Coates believed that he would be sanctified just before he had to die; and that, meanwhile, it was his “duty and his privilege to persevere in grace.” He confesses, that Wesley’s “perfect folk” gave him but little satisfaction, and that he had received tempting offers, both at London and Leeds, to leave the Methodists; but he had no intention of doing so. Coates, as his letters show, was a good man, with great courage and independency of thought; but though he read several languages, he was without any mental discipline. No doubt, he was serviceable in saving souls; but he was utterly unfit for the professor’s chair; and to think of him solving the vexed questions which were now agitating the Methodists was simply ridiculous.
[448]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 177.
[448]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 177.
[449]Ibid. p. 178.
[449]Ibid. p. 178.
[450]Manuscript.
[450]Manuscript.
[451]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 113.
[451]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 113.
[452]Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 331.
[452]Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 331.
[453]At the first Methodist conference, in 1744, it was asked, “Is faith the condition, or the instrument, of sanctification?” And it was answered, “It is both the condition and instrument of it. When we begin to believe, then sanctification begins; and as faith increases, holiness increases, till we are created anew.”
[453]At the first Methodist conference, in 1744, it was asked, “Is faith the condition, or the instrument, of sanctification?” And it was answered, “It is both the condition and instrument of it. When we begin to believe, then sanctification begins; and as faith increases, holiness increases, till we are created anew.”
[454]Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 332.
[454]Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 332.
[455]Methodist Magazine, 1781, p. 390.
[455]Methodist Magazine, 1781, p. 390.
[456]Methodist Magazine, 1783, p. 106.
[456]Methodist Magazine, 1783, p. 106.
[457]Ibid. 1782, p. 272.
[457]Ibid. 1782, p. 272.
[458]Whitehead’s Life of Wesley, vol. ii., p. 297.
[458]Whitehead’s Life of Wesley, vol. ii., p. 297.
[459]Ibid. p. 298.
[459]Ibid. p. 298.
[460]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 113.
[460]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 113.
[461]London Magazine, 1761, p. 19.
[461]London Magazine, 1761, p. 19.
[462]Ibid. p. 36.
[462]Ibid. p. 36.
[463]Ibid. p. 35.
[463]Ibid. p. 35.
[464]Ibid. p. 91.
[464]Ibid. p. 91.
[465]Ibid. p. 91; also Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 371.
[465]Ibid. p. 91; also Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 371.
[466]London Magazine, 1761, p. 356.
[466]London Magazine, 1761, p. 356.
[467]Manuscript letter of J. Pawson.
[467]Manuscript letter of J. Pawson.
[468]Methodist Magazine, 1782, pp. 157, 386; and 1783, p. 328.
[468]Methodist Magazine, 1782, pp. 157, 386; and 1783, p. 328.
[469]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 149.
[469]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 149.
[470]Moore’s Life of Wesley, vol. ii., p. 218.
[470]Moore’s Life of Wesley, vol. ii., p. 218.
[471]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 385.
[471]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 385.
[472]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 120.
[472]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 120.
[473]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 674.
[473]Methodist Magazine, 1780, p. 674.
[474]Maxfield’s “Vindication,” p. 14.
[474]Maxfield’s “Vindication,” p. 14.
[475]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 117.
[475]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 117.
[476]Methodist Magazine, 1790, p. 42.
[476]Methodist Magazine, 1790, p. 42.
[477]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 76.
[477]Wesley’s Works, vol. iii., p. 76.
[478]Methodist Magazine, 1795, p. 50.
[478]Methodist Magazine, 1795, p. 50.
[479]Maxfield’s “Vindication,” p. 16.
[479]Maxfield’s “Vindication,” p. 16.
[480]Manuscript.
[480]Manuscript.
[481]London Chronicle, Feb. 26, 1763; andLondon Magazine, 1763, p. 162.
[481]London Chronicle, Feb. 26, 1763; andLondon Magazine, 1763, p. 162.
[482]Whitefield’s Works, vol. iii., p. 287.
[482]Whitefield’s Works, vol. iii., p. 287.
[483]Lloyd’s Evening Post, March 2, 1763.
[483]Lloyd’s Evening Post, March 2, 1763.
[484]Ibid. March 21, 1763.
[484]Ibid. March 21, 1763.
[485]Wesley’s Works, vol. iv., p. 232.
[485]Wesley’s Works, vol. iv., p. 232.
[486]Jackson’s Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 210.
[486]Jackson’s Life of C. Wesley, vol. ii., p. 210.
[487]Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 333.
[487]Wesley’s Works, vol. xiii., p. 333.
[488]Reilly’s “Memoir of an Actor.”
[488]Reilly’s “Memoir of an Actor.”
[489]“Life and Times of Countess of Huntingdon,” vol. i., p. 281. Grimshaw had died triumphantly four months before.
[489]“Life and Times of Countess of Huntingdon,” vol. i., p. 281. Grimshaw had died triumphantly four months before.
[490]Christian Miscellany, 1865, p. 284.
[490]Christian Miscellany, 1865, p. 284.
[491]Methodist Magazine, 1865, p. 985.
[491]Methodist Magazine, 1865, p. 985.
[492]Methodist Magazine, 1856, p. 988.
[492]Methodist Magazine, 1856, p. 988.
[493]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 342.
[493]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 342.
[494]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 193.
[494]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 193.
[495]Methodist Magazine, 1783, p. 108.
[495]Methodist Magazine, 1783, p. 108.
[496]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 115.
[496]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 115.
[497]Ibid. p. 116.
[497]Ibid. p. 116.
[498]Monthly Review, 1762.
[498]Monthly Review, 1762.
[499]Monthly Review, 1762.
[499]Monthly Review, 1762.
[500]London Chronicle, Jan. 8, 1763.
[500]London Chronicle, Jan. 8, 1763.
[501]London Chronicle, Jan. 15, 1763.
[501]London Chronicle, Jan. 15, 1763.
[502]Ibid. Feb. 10, 1763.
[502]Ibid. Feb. 10, 1763.
[503]Whitehead’s Life of Wesley, vol ii., p. 299.
[503]Whitehead’s Life of Wesley, vol ii., p. 299.
[504]Methodist Magazine, 1794, p. 565.
[504]Methodist Magazine, 1794, p. 565.
[505]Ibid. 1794, p. 566.
[505]Ibid. 1794, p. 566.
[506]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 116.
[506]Wesley’s Works, vol. xii., p. 116.
[507]Ibid vol. xii., pp. 116, 117.
[507]Ibid vol. xii., pp. 116, 117.
[508]“Life and Times of Countess of Huntingdon,” vol. i., p. 329.
[508]“Life and Times of Countess of Huntingdon,” vol. i., p. 329.
[509]“Life and Times of Countess of Huntingdon,” vol. i., p. 330.
[509]“Life and Times of Countess of Huntingdon,” vol. i., p. 330.
[510]Methodist Magazine, 1795, p. 49.
[510]Methodist Magazine, 1795, p. 49.
[511]Ibid. p. 151.
[511]Ibid. p. 151.
[512]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 351.
[512]Methodist Magazine, 1797, p. 351.
[513]London Magazine, 1763, p. 48.
[513]London Magazine, 1763, p. 48.
[514]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Jan. 26, 1763.
[514]Lloyd’s Evening Post, Jan. 26, 1763.
[515]For a full account of the society, see the “Life and Times of the Rev. Samuel Wesley,” pp. 213-224.
[515]For a full account of the society, see the “Life and Times of the Rev. Samuel Wesley,” pp. 213-224.
[516]The figures were: Whitefield’s followers, about 20; Wesley’s, about 50; Churchmen, about 20; Dissenters, about 70.
[516]The figures were: Whitefield’s followers, about 20; Wesley’s, about 50; Churchmen, about 20; Dissenters, about 70.
[517]London Chronicle, April 5, 1763.
[517]London Chronicle, April 5, 1763.
[518]The reason of this was the excited state of the London Methodists. Hence, the following extract from an unpublished letter, kindly lent by Charles Reed, Esq., M.P.“London,March 21, 1763.“My dear Sister,—My coming into the country is quite uncertain, till I see what turn things here will take. I am glad to hear the work of God prospers among you; etc.“J. Wesley.”
[518]The reason of this was the excited state of the London Methodists. Hence, the following extract from an unpublished letter, kindly lent by Charles Reed, Esq., M.P.
“London,March 21, 1763.“My dear Sister,—My coming into the country is quite uncertain, till I see what turn things here will take. I am glad to hear the work of God prospers among you; etc.“J. Wesley.”
“London,March 21, 1763.
“My dear Sister,—My coming into the country is quite uncertain, till I see what turn things here will take. I am glad to hear the work of God prospers among you; etc.
“J. Wesley.”
[519]Methodist Magazine, 1782, p. 443.
[519]Methodist Magazine, 1782, p. 443.
[520]Lady Maxwell’s Life.
[520]Lady Maxwell’s Life.
[521]Lady Glenorchy’s Life.
[521]Lady Glenorchy’s Life.
[522]Myles’s “Chronological History.”
[522]Myles’s “Chronological History.”
[523]Manuscript letter.
[523]Manuscript letter.
[524]Ward’s “Strictures.”
[524]Ward’s “Strictures.”
[525]Rev. Valentine Ward’s manuscript diary.
[525]Rev. Valentine Ward’s manuscript diary.
[526]Methodist Magazine, 1813, p. 74.
[526]Methodist Magazine, 1813, p. 74.
[527]Methodist Magazine, 1782, p. 216.
[527]Methodist Magazine, 1782, p. 216.
[528]“Minutes of Several Conversations,” etc. 1763: 12mo. 30 pages. P. 2.
[528]“Minutes of Several Conversations,” etc. 1763: 12mo. 30 pages. P. 2.
[529]“Minutes of Several Conversations,” etc. 1763: 12mo. 30 pages. P. 3.
[529]“Minutes of Several Conversations,” etc. 1763: 12mo. 30 pages. P. 3.
[530]Ibid. p. 4.
[530]Ibid. p. 4.
[531]Ibid. p. 5.
[531]Ibid. p. 5.
[532]Ibid. p. 6.
[532]Ibid. p. 6.
[533]Ibid. p. 6.
[533]Ibid. p. 6.
[534]Ibid. p. 7.
[534]Ibid. p. 7.