EBENEZER in GEORGIA. Wednesday, June 25. 1740.

WENT on Monday and re­turn'd this Evening from Ebenezer, which I have seen with no small Satis­faction. Surely there is a Difference, even in this Life, between those that serve the LORD and those that serve him not.— All other Places of the Colony seem to be like Egypt, where was Darkness; but Eben­ezer, like the Land of Goshen, wherein was great Light. For near Four Miles I walk'd in almost one continued Field, with a most plentiful Crop of Corn, Pease, [Page 4] Potatoes, &c. growing upon it, all the Produce of a few Months Labour. But GOD gives the Labourers a peculiar Blessing. They are unanimous, the Strong help the Weak, and all seem hearty for the common Good. In a few Years the Saltzburghers, I believe, will be a flourishing People. Their Land is tolerably good and lies very near the River. They already provide Food, and, ere long, will be capable of providing Raiment for themselves. I shall send them up Cotton, Spinning-Wheels and a Loom, to begin a Manufactory; and next Year, I hope, their own Land will produce enough Flax, Cotton, &c. to carry it on. I had sweet Communion with their Ministers. Our Sister Orphan-House there is blessed by their Means; and Yesterday was set apart as a Day of Thanksgiving, for some Assistances lately sent the dear Lambs from Germany and Savannah. The People seem very grate­ful. They willingly receiv'd me into their little but cleanly Huts, and seem'd proud when I would accept any Thing from their Hands. Blessed be GOD! Certainly some Blessings are in Reserve for Georgia. As I said formerly, so I say again. They who help the Saltzburghers will do a good Work. They want [Page 5] Assistance. LORD, raise them up Bene­factors, for thy infinite Mercies Sake.

SAVANNAH.

Friday, June 27. With great Comfort receiv'd Capt. Grant, who has been at Cape-Fear to fetch a Load of Boards, and return'd with the Sloop in Fourteen Days. He was receiv'd very courteously by the Head of the Inhabitants, and many, he tells me, were in Expectation of seeing me in North-Carolina. LORD send me whi­thersoever and whensoever it shall seem Good to thy divine Majesty. Amen and Amen.

Monday, June 30. For these Ten Days last past have had frequent Communica­tions from above, both by Way of Hu­miliation and Exaltation. GOD has of­ten been pleas'd, since my Return, [...]o make himself known in our Sanctuary▪ and caused a mighty Power to attend the Word preach'd both in publick and pri­vate. I hav [...] been much refresh'd with a Packet of Letters from English Friends. Providence seems to smile upon the Or­phan-House, and to prosper every Thing that I take in Hand. A wealthy, moral, civilized Planter of South-Carolina came [...]ately to see us, and GOD, I believe, has been pleased to give him a true Know­ledge of himself, and a true Faith in his [Page 6] dear Son JESUS CHRIST. His Wife also was much quicken'd, having been wrought upon, by GOD, some Time last Winter. She was a great Admirer of Archbishop Tillotson; but having her Eyes now open'd to discern spiritual Things, can no longer take up with such Husks, fit only for carnal, unawaken'd, unbe­lieving Reasoners to eat. With this hap­py Pair (hearing both by Letters and o­therwise, that Charles-Town People were in great Expectation of seeing me before I went to the Northward, and that GOD had been pleased to work by my late Mi­nistry among them) I and a dear Friend left Savannah this Morning in a large Boat, built up one another in the Way, and arrived at Beaufort in Port-Royal a­bout Midnight. Our Friend and his Wife went to a Relation's House; but my Companion and I chose to continue in the Boat, where our LORD was plea­sed to cause us to lie down and sleep in Peace and Safety. Blessed, forever blessed be the Keeper of Israel, who neither slum­ [...]ereth nor sleepeth!

BEAUFORT in PORT-ROYAL.

Tuesday, July 1. Felt a most sweet and humbling Sense of the divine Presence in my Soul this Morning. Went▪ as soon [Page 7] as it was Light, to a Relation's of our Fellow Traveller, and afterwards had some close Conversation with Mr. Jones, the Minister of the Parish, about the great Doctrines of the Gospel. He receiv'd me with much Tenderness and Respect, but thought I went too far in condemn­ing Archbishop Tillotson. I think the Arguments I brought were conclusive; and the Account which my new Convert (being one of his Parishioners) gave of GOD's Dealing with his Soul was rati­onal, and, as he confessed, satisfactory: But he could not see clearly into the Doc­trine of Free Justification, without Re­gard to any Thing foreseen in the Crea­ture. However, being more noble than most of his other Brethren, he was can­did and courteous; and, notwitstanding he was in Danger of incurring the Dis­pleasure of the Commissary there [...]; yet he read Prayers, and requested me to preach in the Evening at his Church. I did, tho' to a small Auditory, there being but little Notice given of my Preaching. After Sermon Mr. Jones return'd me Thanks; and having promised to preach again, GOD willing, in my Return to Savannah, I took my Leave, and spent the Evening with my Fellow-Travellers at their Relation's House. May GOD [Page 8] convert every one related to them, and make them all Members of the Houshold of Faith! Even so, LORD JESUS! Amen.

CHARLES-TOWN.

Thursday, July 3. Set out Yesterday Morning about One a Clock, and reach­ed Mr. Bryan's Plantation about Ten. Stayed and dined comfortably together; wrote a few Letters; rode thro' extream Heat, put in and lay at a Planter's House by Reason of the Thunder, Lightning and Rain. Breakfasted this Morning at Mr. Bee's at Pon-pon; prayed; talked of the Things of GOD, and was enabled to hold out, notwithstanding the Weather was exceeding hot, till I came to Charles-Town, about Eighty Miles from Beaufort. Here again my Spirits were much raised, and my Heart comforted by a Packet of Letters from the Northward, giving me Account how the Word of the LORD run and was glorified in Philadelphia and other adjacent Places: The LORD's Name be praised from the Rising up of the Sun to the going down of the same.

Friday, July 4. Lay at a Gentlewo­man's House who came last Night to give me the Offer of her House. Was visited by many dear Friends of the Town, who were rejoiced to see me. Received a [Page 9] Letter from the Commissary, which I immediately answered. Wrote several Letters to Savannah. Dispatch'd some Affairs for the Orphan-House, and preach­ed in the Evening, in the Independent Meeting-House, to as large and attentive a Congregation as usual. Blessed be GOD for giving the People a hearing Ear. — LORD give them also an obedient Heart, for thy dear Son's Sake! Amen.

Sunday, July 6. Preach'd twice Yes­terday and twice to Day, and had great Reason to believe our LORD got himself the Victory in many Hearts: For the Word was attended with Power. Went to Church Morning and Evening, and heard the Commissary preach as virulent and unorthodox, inconsistent Discourse as ever I heard in my Life. His Heart seem'd full of Choler and Resentment. Out of the Abundance thereof, he pour­ed forth so many bitter Words against the Methodists (as he called them) in general, and me in particular, that several who intended to receive the Sacrament at his Hands withdrew. Never, I believe, was such a Preparation Sermon preach'd before. I could not help thinking the Preacher was of the same Spirit with the Bishop Gardner, in Queen Mary's Days, Afer Sermon he sent his Clerk to desire me not [Page 10] to come to the Sacrament till he had spoke with me. I immediately retired to my Lodgings, rejoicing that I was ac­counted worthy to suffer this further De­gree of Contempt for my dear LORD's Sake. Blessed JESUS, lay it not to the Commissary's Charge! Amen and Amen.

ASHLEY-FERRY.

Monday, July 7. Set out this Morning early, in Company with several, whose Hearts the LORD has lately open'd, and went to the House of one Mr. Chanler, a gracious Baptist Minister, who lives a­bout Fourteen Miles from Charles-Town. After Dinner, according to Appointment, I preach'd at his Meeting-House, to the Conviction of some and Comfort of o­thers, who came to me rejoicing, that the exploded Doctrines of the Gospel were so publickly and successfully spread abroad. Sermon being ended and much Importunity used, I went with some Charles-Town Friends to the House of Mrs. Peters, about Five Miles from the Meeting-House; but was obliged to lie down (as I now am generally every Day) by Reason of the violent Heat of the Wea­ther, and great Expence of Sweat. How­ever, GOD strengthen'd me much at Night, and so assisted me in giving an Ex­hortation [Page 11] to the Company that came with me, that all seem'd to be put under great Concern, and three or four in particular came out, tel [...]g me how powerfully GOD was working upon their Souls. Father, shew that it is thy especial Work, by carrying it on and perfecting it till the Day of our LORD JESUS!

Dorchester and Ashley-Ferry.

Tuesday, July 8. Left my Lodging a­bout Eight this Morning, and hasted to Dorchester, where I preach'd twice with much of the divine Presence, and to a large Audience, in Mr. Osgood's Meeting-House, a young Independent Minister. A­bout Four in the Afternoon we set out again, took a little Refreshment at a Gen­tleman's House in the Way, and lay at Mr. Chanler's all Night. Here my bodily Strength much failed me again, and therefore, being very weak, retired to Bed as soon as possible, but slept very little. LORD hasten that blessed Time, when I shall sleep no more.

Ashley-Ferry and Charles-Town.

Wednesday, July 9. Found myself still weaker than before; but was strengthen'd to preach under a Tree near Mr. Chan­ler's Meeting-House about Ten in the Morning; The House being now too small to contain the Congregation. Peo­ple seem'd to come from all Parts, and the Word (as I was told) came with a convincing Power. Having changed my Linnen, which I am obliged to do after every Sermon, by Reason of my prodigi­ous sweating, I hasten'd away for Charles-Town: But my Body was so exceeding weak, and the Sun shone so intensly hot, that Five Miles before I reach'd Town, I called in at a publick House, and lay for a considerable Time almost breathless and dead. But GOD poured ineffable Comforts into my Soul; and being there­by strengthen'd in the inner Man, I once more set forward with my dear Fellow-Travellers, reach'd Town about Four, and preach'd about Six at the usual Place and with much more Freedom and Power than could any Way be expected, con­sidering the great Weakness of my Body. But I can do all Things thro' CHRIST'S strengthening me. I thank thee holy Fa­ther, LORD of Heaven and Earth, that I [Page 13] have so often the Sentence of Death within myself! — Oh let me be daily taught there­by not in the least to trust in myself, but wholly in thee the everlasting GOD!

Christ Church, Charles-Town, and John's-Island.

Saturday, July 12. Went over the Water on Thursday, and read Prayers and preached, at the Request of the Church-Wardens and Vestry, at Christ Church. Returned in the Evening to Charles-Town. Preached twice there Yesterday, and went this Morning to John's-Island, about Twenty Miles up the River, whi­ther I was invited by Col. Gibbs. He received me and my Friends most hospi­tably, provided several Horses, Chairs, &c. for us and his Family. We rode very pleasantly to the Church; there was a great Congregation; GOD strength'ned me to read Prayers and preach twice, with much Freedom. About Four we returned to the Colonel's. I eat with some Appetite; was enabled to give a warm and close Exhortation to the Rich that sat round about me, and returned to Charles-Town in the Evening with my dear Friends, praising and blessing GOD. Glory be to his most holy Name. Dagon seems daily to fall before the Ark. A [Page 14] lasting Impression, I am persuaded, is made on many Hearts; and GOD, I be­lieve, will yet shew, that he hath much People in Charles-Town and the Countries round about. LORD thou hast visited them with thy Judgments, melt them down now with thy Mercies. Stretch out the golden Scepter of thy Favour, and bruise them no more with thy Iron Rod! Even so, LORD JESUS, Amen.

Sunday, July 13. Preached this Morn­ing with much Power, and collected in the Evening for my poor Orphans. Great Numbers stood without the Doors, and it raining very hard in the Time of divine Service, many of them were driven away. However GOD caused the other People's Hearts to devise liberal Things, Up­wards of Fifty Pounds Sterl. were collec­ted on the Occasion. Most shewed a great Readiness to assist me, and the LORD was pleased much to enlarge my Heart to give Praise unto his Name.

In the Morning I went to Church, and heard the Commissary preach: But had some infernal Spirit been sent to draw my Picture, I think it scarcely possible he could paint me in more horrid Colours. I think, if ever, then was the Time that all Manner of Evil was spoken against me falsly for CHRIST's Sake. The Com­missary [Page 15] seem'd to ransack Church Histo­ry, for Instances of Enthusiasm and abu­sed Grace. He drew a Parallel between me and all the Oliverians, Ranters, Qua­kers, French-Prophets, till he came down to a Family of the Dutarts, who lived not many Years ago in South-Carolina, and were guilty of the most notorious In­cests and Murders. To the Honour of GOD's Free Grace be it spoken, whilst he was representing me thus, I felt the blessed Spirit strength'ning and refreshing my Soul. GOD at the same Time gave me to see what I was by Nature; how I had deserved his eternal Wrath; and therefore I did not feel the least Resent­ment against the Preacher. No, I pitied, I prayed for him, and wished from my Soul, that the LORD would convert him, as he did once the Persecutor Saul, and let him know that it is JESUS whom he persecutes. In the Evening many came, as I was informed, to hear what I would say; but as the Commissary hinted, that his Sermons should be printed, and as they were full of invidious Falshoods, I held my Tongue and made little or no Re­ply. Father forgive him, for he knows not what he does!

Saturday, July 19. Preached all this Week twice every Day at Charles-Town, [Page 16] except on Wednesday and Thursday E­vening, the last of which Days I was cal­led upon to appear in Court; and on the former was desired to go to James's Island, to preach at the House of one Madam Woodard. This Gentlewoman, as she informed me herself, was once much prejudiced against me, insomuch that she thought it dangerous to come and hear me: But having read my Ser­mons, she changed her Mind, and coming both to Town and to John's Island to hear me preach, was, with her Daughter and another Gentlewoman, much melted down. Being given to Hospitality, she provided Food sufficient for a great Mul­titude. People came from Town and all the other neighbouring Places. Her Barn was put into proper Order, and I read Prayers and preached in it, with much of GOD's blessed Spirit in my Soul. A lovely Melting was visible in several Parts of the Auditory. After Sermon, GOD enabled me to speak many Gospel Truths a midst a polite Set of People; and at the Request of Madam Woodard I stayed all Night. This gave me an Opportuni­ty of teaching her Family the Way of GOD more perfectly, and also of resting my weary Body, which seems to be de­clining more and more every Day. — [Page 17] Blessed be GOD! If it be consistent with his Glory and the Good of Souls, I hope it will not be long e [...] Worms destroy it, and my Soul carried to see my GOD.

I have purposely given a more general Account of this Week's Labours than u­sual, that I might be the more particular in relating the Commissary's Dealing with me, from whom, by the Hands of his Apparitor on Friday, July Eleven, I received the following Citation.

At my Request, the said Apparitor brought me the underwritten, as a Copy of my Charge.

Tuesday, July 15. I appeared, accord­ing to the Citation, at the appointed Hour and Place. There were very many Spectators; and the Rev. Mr. Garden, Commissary, The Rev. Mr. Guy, The Rev. Mr. Mellichamp, The Rev. Mr. Roe, The Rev. Mr. Orr, sat as Judges: They received me with good Manners; and after the Clerk of the Court had ta­ken a Minute of their Appearing, the Commissary tender'd to me a Paper, de­siring my Answer to those Articles, but I refused taking it, till I was satisfied of the Authority of the Court in Question, adding, do you think I would in [...]ur a Premunire of doing what I could not answer? (or Words to that Effect) He then said, they would proceed to censure; upon which, I reminded them of the Ex­ample of the Magistrates, who exceeded their Authority, in condemning and scourging St. Paul; being a Roman, [Page 20] unheard. At this one of the Clergy sneer'd; but the Commi [...]ary replied, ‘We shall not go beyond o [...] Power, or scourge you.’ After a short Debate the Commissary sent his Apparitor to his House for his Commission, in order to give me Satisfaction. In about a Quar­ter of an Hour he return'd, with several Bundles of Papers, out of which the Com­missary first produced his Commission to act as Commissary from the Bishop of London. I read and approved of it: But at the same Time desired to be satisfied of the Bishop of London's Authority in this Province, not finding the Royal Au­thority underwritten, as mention'd in his publick Citation: Upon this a Latin Commission without a Seal, was order'd to be read by the Clerk of the Court. I objected, That it was in Latin contrary to our late Act, ordering every Thing to be in English; and not well understand­ing the Clerk as he read it, I desired the Perusal of it myself, which was granted. I read it with an audible Voice; and after reading it, I objected, That tho' there might be a general Power given to the Bishop, to exercise ecclesiastical Jurisdic­tion in this Province; yet the Extent of that Power was to be determined by par­ticular Acts of Assembly. I farther urged, [Page 21] That a Court of this Nature was intirely unpresidented in America: that I belong­ed to Georgia, a different Province, and was here only as an Itinerate. I also ad­ded, That my Lord of London, tho' I preached in the Fields for some Months, never attempted to exercise such Autho­rity against me. The Commissary repli­ed, Tho' I belonged to Georgia, yet I had committed Irregularities here, and there­fore came under his Cognizance; and that what he had to lay to my Charge might be Crimes of a different Nature.

Not satisfied with my Objections, he order'd the Clerk to minute down, That I contumaciously contemned the Autho­rity of the Court. But I desired that Expression might be softned, declaring from my Heart, That what I did, pro­ceeded from a real Scruple concerning their Authority, urging the Example of King Charles, who, before he made An­swer to his Accusers, [...]sisted on knowing the Authority his Judges had to call him to an Account. I further objected, That the Commissaries in Maryland and Penn­sylvania were mere Cyphers, That the Trustees, to my Knowledge, question'd the Bishop of London's having any Juris­diction in these Parts; and that the Governor of Maryland, acting as Ordi­nary, [Page 22] had summoned his Clergy lately to meet him as such, which accordingly they did. I therefore upon the whole, humbly desired, as a Favour from the Court, that I might have till to Morrow Nine a Clock, the Time to which the Court was adjourned, to inform myself of the Extent of their ecclesiastical Jurisdiction in this Province, assuring them, that upon find­ing their Authority valid, I would im­mediately answer to any Interrogatories, and would be ready to receive any Sen­tence they could with Justice pass upon me. Tho' at my first asking he said, He had indulged me too far already; yet, after some Consideration, Mr. Commissa­ry ordered the Clerk to raze out the for­mer Minute, and to record, That upon my scrupling the Authority of the Court I was indulged my Request.

Our LORD was pleased to fulfil his Promise made to those that should be cal­led before Rulers and Governors for his Name-Sake. My Soul was full of Peace. I pitied, but did not feel the least Emo­tion of Resentment against my Judges. The People behaved pretty quiet; but some broke out into a Laughter, some­thing irregular, when I said, the Com­missaries in Pennsylvania and Maryland were but Cyphers. This I disapproved [Page 23] of, and checked immediately. After the Court was adjourned and the Commissary rose from his Seat, I made my Obeisance and returned to my Lodgings, thinking myself more highly honour'd, by my LORD, this Morning than in any other Part of my Life. LORD strengthen me in all my other impending Trials, for thy great Name's Sake. Amen and Amen.

Wednesday, July 16. Appeared this Morning at the Hour of Ten, and exhi­bited a Recusatio Judicis, i. e. my Ex­ceptions against the Commissary's being my Judge in this Cause, having too great Reason to believe him prejudiced against me. At first the Commissary refused to read it, insisting to know first whether I acknowledged the Authority of the Court? Unwarily I answer'd, Yes. But upon the Motion of my Advocate, Mr. Rut­ledge, I recalled my W [...]rds and said, I admitted and submitted to an Ecclesiasti­cal Court legally constituted. One of the Clergy on the Bench would have in­sisted on my first Answer. But I told him, It was mean-spirited and beneath a Court, consisting of those that called themselves Ministers of JESUS CHRIST, to catch at an Expression which I imme­diately corrected. Upon this, the Bench agreed to alter the Minute agreeable to [Page 24] my last Declaration. The Commissary then took my Paper, read it to himself, and said, he would not accept of it. I then stood up according to Law and said, I would go and protest against all further Proceedings, as null and void, and imme­diately left the Court. Upon Mr. Rut­ledge his Advice I returned and declared, That I appealed apud acta to the Bishop of London, and then withdrew a second Time.

We had not gone far from the Place of Judicature, but I was called back by the Apparitor and Register. We returned, and at the Commissary's Desire gave in my Exceptions to be read and filed.

By this Time Mr. Commissary had gotten one Mr. Graham, an Attorney, to appear in Behalf of the Court, who in­sisted on having the Merits of my Excep­tions tried in Court. But, as according to Law, I had referred them to the Ex­amination of Six Arbitrators, three no­minated by me, and three by the Com­missary, Mr. Rutledge, in my Behalf, protested against all further Proceedings, and against my appearing at the next Court, till my Reference to Arbitrators was complied with, it being quite impro­bable to imagine, that Mr. Commissary, who must be Judge (if my Exceptions [Page 25] should be tried by that Court) should al­low himself prejudiced.

This Recusatio Judicis I exhibited by the Advice of my Friends, not to quibble with or evade the Force or Rigour of any Law whatsoever, that I might justly fall under. For when the Articles of Impeachment were read, I found myself accused only of omitting to read the Com­mon-Prayer in the Presbyterian Meeting▪ at such Times as I preached there. Oh that my Adversaries may never have any Thing worse to lay to my Charge!

The Spectators were rather more nu­merous than Yesterday; they behaved quietly, and were much rejoiced to see my Opposers reduced to such a Dilemma. Well said the Psalmist, the Wrath of Man shall turn to thy Praise. — Great GOD, the Remainder of it do thou restrain; and for thy own Name Sake deliver me from the Hands of unreasonable Men, who, out of a misguided Zeal and without Cause, are mine Enemies!

Thursday, July 17. By Advice of Mr. Rutledge, appear'd in Court at the Time of their Meeting, to see if my Exceptions were admitted to Arbitration or repelled. The Court being open'd, Mr. Commis­sary asked me, If I was prepared to an­swer the Articles objected against me? [Page 26] I replied, I could give no Answer, till my [...]onceptions [...]were referred to Arbitrators. Mr. Rutledge stood up and spoke some few [...] Word's in Vindication of my Ob­jections proving, by a Book of Ecclesi­astical Law, That my Proceedings were according to the Rules therein prescribed

The Register was ordered to read their Reasons for repelling my Exceptions. Mr. Graham endeavoured to enforce, ha­ving first laboured to prove the Jurisdic­tion. of the Court, and to remove the Appehensions the Country in general, or Dissentels in particular, might entertain concerning the ill Consequences of such a Court's being [...]reated. He held on without Interruption for a considerable Time; but Mr. Rutledge rising up to in­validate what he had said, was stopped. A [...] [...]length therefore, finding my Excepti­ons repelled, I appealed to his Majesty in the High Court of Chancery, and de­clared all other Proceedings in that Court against me to be null and void. This c [...]sed many to rejoice and give Thanks into GOD in my Behalf. And my dear Redeemer, to comfort my Heart, by his good Providence, at my Return to my Lodgings, sent me several Letters from Philadelphia,acquainting me how migh­tily the Word of GOD grew and pre­vailed [Page 27] in those Parts. As also Mr. Bolten, who lately kept an Assembly-House, and whose Daughter, not long since, was con­verted at Georgia, wrote me Word, that he had near Fifty Negroes now learning to read of him: And further, that the People of Philadelphia, at their own Ex­pence and Accord, were building a Place for me against Winter, One Hundred Feet long and Seventy Foot wide. LORD, do thou fill it with thy Presence, and grant, that all that come thither to worship, may worship thee in Spirit and in Truth!

Saturday, July 19. After Evening Meeting, was desired by the Apparitor to come and wai [...] on Mr. Commissary, who was sitting in Court▪ I went. He desired me to deposite Ten Pounds Sterl. and to swear, That I would lodge my Appeal within a Twelve-Month. My Lawyer not being present, [...] my Friends were too sollicitous for my Non-compli­ance: But being to leave Town on Mon­day, and finding the Commissary's print­ed Orders gave him Authority to require it, I took the desired Oath, promised to leave Ten Pounds in a Friend's Hands; but withal, moved for a Copy of the Court's Proceedings, which was readily complied with.

[Page 28]The Court being ended, the Commis­sary desired to speak with me. I asked him to go my Lodgings. He chose to walk in a Green near the Church. His Spirit was something calmer than usual; but after an Hour's Conversation we were as far from agreeing as before. He char­ged me with speaking Blasphemy, for saying, That if it was in my Power, I would place him at the Right Hand of GOD. Upon my desiring to know wherein the Blasphemy consisted: He re­plied, Where then will you put CHRIST? I asked him▪ Why he was guilty of that Fault, which he charged me with, viz. In accusing the Methodists in general, when he only referr'd to Things wrote or done by me in particular? He answered, Because we were all of one Mind, he supposed. When I question'd him, Why he ridiculed me for making Grimaces in the Pulpit, when he did not come to hear me? Why, says he, as I passed by one Day, I saw you spreading out your Hands. I replied, Did not Paul do so when he began to preach? In short, all his Dis­course was so inconsistent, and contrary to the Gospel of our LORD, that I was obliged to tell him, That I believed him to be an unconverted Man, an Enemy to GOD, and of a like Spirit with the [Page 29] Persecutor Saul. At this he smiled; and after we had walked for a long while, we parted, and GOD gave me great Satis­faction, that I had delivered my Soul in my Private Conversation with the Commissary. O Father, give him also Peace and Joy in Believing through JESUS CHRIST, the Son of thy Love!

Sunday, July 20. Preached this Morn­ing as usual; and went afterwards to Church to hear the Commissary. His Text was, Take Heed how ye hear. At first I thought we should have a peaceable Sermon, especially since we had conversed before so amicably: but the Gall soon be­gan to flow from his Tongue, tho' not with so much Bitterness as the last Sunday. He endeavour'd to apologise for his Pro­ceedings, condemned all that followed me, and gave all Hopes of Heaven, that ad­hered to him and the Church. In the Evening (tho I went off my Bed to do it, and was carried in a Chaise) the LORD JESUS strengthned me to take my last Farewel of the dear People of Charlestown. My Soul was fu ll of Tenderness for them, and many seem'd to sympathize with me. Blessed be GOD for sending me once more among them! Tho' the Heat of the Weather and Frequency of Preaching has perhaps given an irrecoverable Stroke to the Health [Page 30] of my Body; yet I rejoice, knowing it has been for the Conviction and I believe Conversion of many Souls. Glory be to GOD on high! the Fields here, as well as [...]lsewhere, are now white ready unto Har­v [...]st. Numbers are seeking after JESUS. And two or three gracious-dissenting Mi­nisters, by my Advice, agreed to set up a Weekly Lecture. I advised the People, since the Gospel was not preach'd in the Church, to go and hear it in the Meeting-Houses. May the LORD be with both Ministers and People, and cause them to preach and hear, as becomes the Gospel of CHRIST. What makes the Change more remarkable in Charles-Town People, is, That they seemed to me at my first Coming, to be a People [...]olly devoted to Pleasure. One well acquainted with their Circumstances and Manners, told me, more had been annually spent on Po­lite Entertainments, that the Poor's Rate came to. But now the Jewellers and Dancing-Masters begin to cry out, That their Craft is in Danger. A vast Alter­ation is discernable in the Ladies Dress: And some, whilst I have been speaking, have been so convinced of the Sin of Wearing Jewels, that I have seen them with Blu [...]ies, put their Hands to their Ears and cover them with their Mobs. [Page 31] But I hope the Reformation has went far­ther than Externals. Many moral, good Sort of Men, who before were settled up­on their Lees, have been gloriously awa­kened to seek after JESUS CHRIST. And many a Lydia's Heart hath the LORD open'd to receive the Things that were spoken. Indeed the Word came often like a Hammer and a Fire. And a Door, I believe, will be opened for teaching the poor Negroes. Several of them have done their usual Work in less Time, that they might come to hear me. Many of their Owners, who have been awakened, re­solve to teach them Christianity. Had I Time and proper School-Masters, I might immediately erect a Negreo-School in South-Carolina as well as Pennsylvania. Many would willingly, contribute [...] Money and Land. Every Day almo [...] something or other was sent for my Or­phans at Georgia. The People were very follicitous about my Health, when they saw me weak; sent me many, small Pre­sents, and took Care to see the Lawyer who pleaded for me. I fear'd sometimes they would be too hot; but I endeavour'd to stop their Resentments against the Commissary, as much as possible, and re­commended Peace and Moderation to them in most of my Discour [...] ▪ May [Page 32] the LORD JESUS reward them for all their Works of Faith, and Labours which have proceeded of Love; may he never leave them without a Teaching Priest, and may he grant, that the Seed sown in their Hearts, may grow up into an eternal Harvest! A­men and Amen.

Ashley-Ferry and Pon-pon.

Monday, July 22. Left Charles-Town very early, accompanied by many of the Inhabitants, who I hope will prove true Followers of the Lamb. Read Prayers and preached at Ashley-Ferry, to a large Congregation, and great Power was a­mong them. The Weather continuing extream Hot, Sweating and Preaching weaken'd me very much. I went in a Chariot to Madam Bellinger's, who kindly invited me and my Friends to Din­ner. I eat but little; took leave of my dear Fellow-Travellers as well as I could; took Horse in the Evening; put in for Shelter from the Rain at Major Smith's; and reach'd Mr. Bee's, of Pon-pon, near Forty Miles from Town, about Midnight.

Here I had the Pleasure of Meeting Mr. Hugh Bryan; but Nature being quite worn out, I went to Rest as soon as possi­ble, not doubting but the LORD would cause me to renew my Strength before [Page 33] the Morning. Why should I doubt it, since the LORD hath said, I will never leave or forsake Thee?

Tuesday, July 23. Slept pretty well; but found myself not strong enough to engage in Family-Duty. Met with, and was civilly treated by Mr. Stobo and Mr. Steward, two Scotch Presbyterian Mini­sters, and Mr. Thompson, a Church of England Missionary, who refused to preach or sit in Judgment against me. About Noon GOD strengthned me to ride a Mile, and preach under a great Tree, to an attentive Auditory. Some I observed were affected; and I wo [...]ld willingly have preached a second Time, but my Body was so weak, that by the Advice of Friends, I resolved to continue where I was all Night. Surely it cannot be long 'ere this earthly Tabernacle will be dis­solved! Never did the Hart pant more eagerly after the Water-Brooks, than my S [...]l thirsts after the Enjoyment of thee my GOD!

Hoospanah Chappel and Good Hope.

Wednesday, July 24. Rose sometime before Day, and got to Hoospanah Chapel, [...]ear 30 Miles from Mr. Bee's about Noon. Here I preach'd to a very small [...], few People living thereabouts; [Page 34] but (as I was afterwards informed) not without some good Effect. Sermon being over, I went on Horse-back to Good-Hope, where Mr. Hugh Bryan lived, and several followed, hoping I would preach again in the Evening: But here my bodily Strength so failed me, and GOD poured such ineffable Thirstings▪ and Hungrings in my Soul after him, that I sometimes hoped he was about to set my imprisoned Soul at Liberty. Surely my GOD then placed me upon Mount Pisgah, and gave me a distant Prospect of the Heavenly Canaan! Every Limb stretched for Immortality, and I long­ed for the blessed Angels to come and carry me to Abraham's Harbour. These Words, "I know that my Redeemer liveth," with wonderful Sweetness and Power were pressed upon me; and the Thoughts of my Saviour's dying Love, and of the LORD's being my Righteousness, melted me into Tears. My dear Friend and Com­panion wept over me, answer'd almost Tear for Tear, and seemed willing to take his Flight with me into the Arms of our beloved JESUS. The poor Negroes crow­ded round the Windows, and by their Looks and Officiousness express'd a great Concern for me. Their Master had ac­quainted them, I believe, that I was their Friend: He himself sat by, and wept too: [Page 35] But alas! GOD soon shewed me, that the Time of my Departure was not yet at Hand: In a short Time I perceived my Body grew stronger, and I was enabled to walk about. As well as I could, I joined in Family-Prayer. I beg'd of GOD, if I was not to die, but live, it might be to declare the Works and loving Kindness of the LORD. Grant this, O Father, for thy dear Son's sake! Amen and Amen.

Good-Hope and Beaufort.

Thursday, July 25. Being too weak to ride on Horse-back, I went in Mr. Bryan's Boat to Beaufort: We got thither-about Ten in the Morning; but the Heat of the Sun almost struck me down, and took away my Senses. As soon as I put my Foot on Shore, kind Mr. Jones courte [...]us­ly received me. In the cool of the Even­ing I preached in his Church to a larger Auditory, and with more Power than when there last. Mr. Jones thanked me for my Sermon, disapproved [...]tirely of the Commissary's Treatment of me, and kindly entertain'd me and my Friends all Night. The LORD JESUS bless his Habitation, and give him to know how it is that we are freely redeem'd by his precious Blood!

Beaufort and Savannah.

Friday, July 26. Took Boat before Day, and having [...]ine Weather, and a fa­vourable Gale, reach'd Savannah, and sa­luted my dear Family about Five in the Evening. My Body being weak, it could not bear up under the Joy and Satisfaction which I felt in my Mind. However, I kneel'd down, wept out a short Prayer and Thanksgiving, and as well as I could, told my Assistants what GOD had done for my Soul. In the Evening I expound­ed, and undesignedly, thinking it was the Lesson for the Night, read the last Chapter of St. Paul's second Epistle to Timothy, in which were these encouraging Wor [...]s, ‘But watch thou in all Things, endure Afflictions, do the Work of an Evan­gelist, make full Proof of thy Ministry. Alexander the Copper-Smith, did me much Evil: The LORD reward him according to his Works. Of whom be thou aware also: For he hath greatly withstood our Words. At my first Tryal no Man stood by me: Notwith­standing the LORD stood by me, and strengthened me, that by me the Preach­ing might be fully known: And I was delivered out of the Mouth of the Lion. And the LORD shall deliver me out [Page 37] of every evil Work, and will preserve me to His heavenly Kingdom. To whom be Glory for ever and ever. Amen.’

Thursday, August 7. Continued very weak ever since my Return from Charles-Town: But was much refreshed this Morn­ing with the Sight of some dear Friends, (amongst whom was one Mr. Tilly, a gra­cious Baptist Minister) who came in our Sloop to see the O [...]phan-House. I gave them the Meeting at early Prayers; and GOD enabled me to expound with Power. LORD, let them not depart hence without having some Spiritual Gift imparted to them! Amen and Amen.

Sunday, August 3. Felt more than common of the Divine Presence in my Soul since the Arrival of Charlestown Friends; Who brought the Orphans many Presents, and blessed GOD for the Foot­steps of his Goodness and Providence plain­ly discernable amongst us. But last Night, through Weakness of Body, and a prodi­gious Concern which lay upon my Soul on Account of some domestick Trials, just as I began Family Prayer, I was struck, as I thought, almost for Death. I put up a few broken Accents, and breath'd out, LORD JESUS receive my Spirit. This Morning my Master shewed me [Page 38] why I was thus humbled: Soon after I rose, I found that Mr. Jones, and his Wife of Port-Royal, Mr. Jonathan Bryan, Brother to Mr. Hugh Bryan, and one Mr. Bull, were come to pay us a Visit. Tho' exceeding weak, and I had almost laid aside Thoughts of officiating this Day; yet up­on Mr. Jones's Intimating that Friends came expecting to hear me, I promised, if I could, to preach, and beg'd him to read Prayers: He did; but I found my­self so ill that I would fain have persuaded Mr. Tilly to preach for me: He peremp­torily refused, urging that GOD would strengthen me if I begun. Upon this I stood up, and soon found Power communi­cated to me from above. I felt a sweet Melting in my Soul: And 'ere I had pray­ed long Mr. Bull dropped down as tho' shot with a Gun. He soon got up, and sat attentively to hear the Sermon. The Power soon spread abroad; the greatest Part of the Congregation was under Con­cern: Tears trickled down apace. GOD manifested himself also much amongst us during the Time of the Sacrament. And I went home ashamed that I was so un­willing to preach. I stood justly reproved when Mr. Tilly after we came home, said, Did I not tell you, GOD would strengthen you? Dearest-LORD for thy Mercies sake [Page 39] never let me distrust thee again! Oh me of little Faith!

Monday, August 4. Was sent for about Noon to see Mr. Jonathan Bryan. At my Coming I found him under great Concern and strong Convictions of Sin. Oh, how did he reflect on his past mispent Life! How did he bless GOD▪ for bringing him to Savannah! How did he desire that he might be found in CHRIST 'ere he re­turned home! His Wife sat Weeping by, and Mr. Bull lay on a Bed, Groaning in Bitterness of Soul, under a Sense of Guilt, and Crying out for an Interest in CHRIST. I asked him what caused him to fall down Yesterday: He answered, the Power of GOD's Word. After about half an Hour's Conversation on the Nature of the New-Birth, and the Necessity of a saving Closure with the LORD CHRIST, I kneeled down and prayed with them, and then took my Leave, hoping the LORD would pluck them as Fire-Brands out of the Fire. Even so, LORD JESUS. A­men and Amen.

Sunday, August 9. Went on Tuesday with Mr. Bryan, Jones, &c. to Bethesda, and had the Pleasure of seeing the Work of GOD much carried on in most of our Visiters Hearts. It was but seldom I could officiate, but when I did the LORD [Page 40] generally caused the Word to come with very great Power. This Morning I ex­pounded early, as usual, and read Part of the Prayers at Ten a Clock; but got Mr. Tilly to preach; who tho' a Baptist Mini­ster, joined with us in receiving the Sacra­ment in the Church of England Way. ‘And the King was pleas'd to sit at his Table. He brought us into his Ban­quetting-House, and caused it to be a Feast of fat Things to our Souls.’ Many, I believe, fed on JESUS in their Hearts with Thanksgiving. After the Ordinance was over, the LORD enlarged my Heart, and I prayed as the Spirit gave me Utterance. I went home, much re­freshed in Soul, but so weak in Body, that I declined going to publick Worship in the Afternoon. In the mean while, GOD gave me a fresh supply of Strength. A­bout the Evening, when my Friends were sitting down together, finding the Power of the LORD come upon me, I began to speak to them of the Things of GOD. A great Alteration was soon dis­cernable in most of the Company. Their Concern gradually increased, till many burst into Floods of Tears; and one fell on the Ground. 'Ere I had done, some of my Parishioners came up, and the rest of my Family: They also felt the Divine [Page 41] Power. When I had done speaking to them from GOD, I spoke for them in Prayer to GOD: My Soul was carried as it were out of the Body, and I was en­abled to wrestle mightily with our LORD in their Behalf. He did not let us go without a Blessing. The Room was filled with the Cries of those around me; and many, I believe, at that Time sought JESUS Sorrowing. The Concern conti­nued after the Duty was over. Several were in great Agonies of Soul; and a Cherikee Indian-Trader, who providential­ly was present, desired to speak with me, saying, He never saw the like before. Mr. Jones also, of Port-Royal, who went away on Friday, but was forced back, and offi­ciated for me this Afternoon at Savannah, told a Friend, that Surely GOD was with us? Blessed be His rich, sovereign and distinguishing Grace. LORD make me lowly in my own Eyes, and cause me still to go on from Conquering to conquer! Not unto me: Not unto me; but unto thee, my King and my GOD, be all the Glory!

Saturday, August 15. Parted with dear Mr. Bull and Mr. Bryan on Tuesday, who I hope, could say, ‘LORD now lettest thou thy Servants depart in Peace, for our Eyes have seen, our Hearts have felt thy Salvation.’ Met with closer out­ward [Page 42] Trials this Week than ever I was visited with before. Was forced, several Times, to come out, thro' Concern of Soul and Weakness of Body, in the Midst of Publick Worship; and had not GOD uncommonly supported me, I must fre­quently have given up the Ghost. But as Troubles abounded, Consolations abound­ed also. These Words, But David strengthned himself in the LORD his GOD, were pressed with a wonderful supporting Power upon my Soul. The Eleventh of Hebrews also was blessed to me; I found the Benefit of being afflicted, GOD en­abled me to sanctify him in my Heart; and my greatest Grief was▪ that I should be so naughty as to oblige my Heavenly Father to [...]hastize and scourge me.—LORD I adore thy infinite condescending Goodness! Oh do not leave me to myself, but purge, oh purge me for thy Mercies Sake, that I may bring forth more Fruit!

Monday, August 17. Preached Yester­day Morning, and took leave of my Pa­rishioners. Administer'd the blessed Sa­crament, and gave a close Exhortation afterwards. Settled every thing to Day, to the best of my Power, for the Orphan-House (which succeeds even beyond Ex­pectation) [Page 43] and was so filled with the Love of CHRIST, in this Evening's Exposition and my private Farewel-Discourse to my Family, that I could almost say, I was within the Veil. My Hearers, both in private and publick, were vastly affected; and a strange Woman was so touched, that she came to me, confessing her Sins and crying out, What shall I do to be saved? When I came to converse with her, I found GOD had struck her the last Time I preached at Port-Royal; and I hope he will now call her effectually by his Grace. Pleased, and I hope in some Measure thankful to the LORD of all LORDS, for setting such Seals to my Ministry just at Departure. About Ten at Night I went on Board our Sloop with my other dear Visitors, in order to go to Charles-Town, where, by the Advice of Friends, the Captain is to take in Freight for Boston, for the Benefit of the Orphan-House. The LORD preserve my dear Lambs and Flock in my Absence; bring them into green Pastures, and lead them be­side the Waters of Comfort.

CHARLES-TOWN

Friday, August 21. Had a comfortable Passage with my dear Friends. Found the Sea Air improved my Health, and ar­rived [Page 44] safe at Charles-Town about Fourth Afternoon. Many came to the Whar and saluted me most kindly. I retired a soon as possible to my old Lodgings, and spent the Evening most sweetly at the House of Mr. Fowler, where I hope many true Disciples of the blessed JESUS were met together. The LORD, who once came to the Eleven by Night and said, Peace be unto you, I am persuaded by his Spirit spoke to many of them. The LORD, I believe, has made a willing People in this Day of his Power. Praised be his Name, from the rising up of the Sun unto the going down of the same! Amem & Amen.

Monday, September 1. Being but weak in Body (except on Sundays) I have preached only once every Day; but I think with greater Power than ever, and with greater Success. I scarce know the Time wherein I did not see a considerable Melting in some Part or other of the Con­gregation, and often it spread over the whole. Several Times I was so weak be­fore I began to preach, that I thought it almost impossible I should go through half a Discourse; but the LORD quickened, enlightened and supported me above mea­sure. Out of Weakness I became strong, and the LORD manifested himself in the Sanctuary. The Audiences were more [Page 45] numerous than ever, and it was supposed not less than Four Thousand were in and about the Meeting-House when I preach­ed my Farewel-Sermon. The Commi­ssary, having run his utmost Length, thought it best to say no more himself; but he employed one Mr. Rowe to preach for him, who told the People, that because of their Wickedness, GOD had sent them strong Delusion, that they might believe a Lie. Finding when I was here last, that JESUS CHRIST was not preached in the Church, my Conscience would not suffer me to attend on those that preach there any more: I therefore went to the Bap­tist and Independant Meeting-House, where JESUS CHRIST, I hope, was preached in Sincerity. I likewise administred the Sa­crament thrice in a private House, viz. Yesterday was seven-night, Yesterday, and this Morning. Never did I see any Thing more solemn. The Room was [...]arge, and most were dissolved into Tears [...]s tho' they were weeping at their SAVI­OUR'S Cross. Surely JESUS CHRIST was evidently set forth before them. Many, [...]t their Request, stood by that did not re­ [...]eive, but they wept bitterly. I prayed [...]or them and all with great Power; and I [...]ope the LORD will cloath them with a Wedding Garment. What was best, [Page 46] Baptists, Church-Folks and Presbyterians all joined together, and received accord­ing to the Church of England, except two, who desired to have it sitting. I willing­ly complied, knowing it was a Thing quite indifferent. Many others hearing how GOD was amongst us Yesterday, de­sired I would administer to them to Day. I did, and our Lord was with us again. Having more Leisure from my private Studies, by Reason my Weakness would not permit me to read much, I had better Opportunities of conversing with, and confirming those that were under Con­victions. Most of them I found grown in Grace, and their Hearts softned by re­deeming Love. Mr. Jonathan Bryan and Mr. Bull came to Charlestown, I hope, much established Mr. Hugh Bryan they left sick at Home, drinking deeply of the Cup: of GOD's Consolations. His Wife came with them to Charlestown: A gra­cious Woman. By my Advice they re­turned Home, with a Resolution to begin a Negroe-School for their Slaves. A young Stage-Player, convinced when I was last at New-York, and who providen­tially came to Georgia when Mr. Jona­than Bryan was there, is to be their first Master. The Time would [...]ail me was I to descend to every Particular. A great, [Page 47] very great Alteration is made in the Life and Manners of most of the Polite Ladies. The Rooms that were usually▪ employed for Balls and Assemblies, were now turn­ed into Society-Room [...]. Every Night, where I was invited to Supper, it became customary to have the House filled with Company, whom the LORD enabled me to pray with and exhort, with great Pow­er; but once I was so weak, that I was obliged to be led Home. Many came to me in private under the deepest Convic­tions. Several were esteemed mad by their Relations: One young Lady in par­ticular, for some little Time, was turned out of Doors, but afterwards was recalled again. And one Tradesman, who was looked upon as a very-good Man, was convinced of his Self-Righteousness in an extraordinary. Manner, and burnt near Forty Pounds Worth of Books, written by such as Chub, Foster, &c. The Care which People expressed of my Heath and Preservation, was uncommon. They were generally sending me in something or another, and so loaded our Sloop with Sea-Stores, that I was obliged to send Part of them to the Orphan-House. How this Work will end I know not. At present [...]here's a comfortable Prospect, that the LORD will gather to himself, out of [Page 48] Charlestown, a peculiar People, zealous of Good Works. Being to be absent from them for a long Season, I exhorted them with all my Power to continue in the Grace of GOD; I forwarned them of their Danger. and told them how they must deny themselves and take up their daily Crosses, if they would follow JESUS CHRIST. Having our Sloop freighted, and the Wind favouring us, after Dinner, with several Charlestown Friends I em­barked for Rhode-Island, intending to go from thence by Land to Boston. In the Evening we got over the Bar: But the Pilot would not take any thing for his Trouble. Here I parted with all Friends except Four, Two of which, GOD wil­ling, intend to accompany me during this Excursion. Do thou, O LORD, who claspest the Winds in thy Fists, and holdest the Waters in the Hollow of thy Hands, ac­cept our Thanks for past Mercies; sanctify our Voyage, and if it be best, carry us with Speed to the Haven where we would be. Amen and Amen.

Newport in Rhode-Island.

Sunday, Sept. 14. Was sick part of the Passage, but found afterwards the Sea-Air, under GOD, much improved my Health. Arrived at Newport in Rhode-Island just [Page 49] after the Beginning of Evening Service. We came purposely thither first with our Sloop. I think it the most pleasant En­trance I ever yet saw. Almost. all the Morning the Wind was contrary; but I found a very strong Inclination to pray▪ that we might arrive time enough to be present at publick Worship. Once I cal­led the People, but something prevented their coming: At last, finding my Im­pression increase upon me, I desired their Attendance immediately. They came. With a strong Assurance that we should be heard, we prayed, that the LORD would turn the Wind that we might give him Thanks in the great Congregation; and also, that he would send such to us as he would have us to converse with, and who might shew us a Lodging. Tho' the Wind was a-head when we began; yet, when we had done praying and come up out of the Cabbin, it was quite fair. With a gentle Gale we sailed most pleasantly into the Harbour, got into pub­lick Worship before they had finished the Psalms, and sat, as I thought, undisco­ver'd After Service was over, a Gentle­man asked me, whether my Name was not Whitefield? I told him, yes: He then desired me to go to his House, and he would take Care to provide Lodgings and [Page 51] Necessaries for me and my Friends. I went; silently admiring God's Goodness in answering my Pr [...]yer so minutely. Several Gentlemen of the Town soon came to pay their Respects to me, amongst whom was one Mr. Cla [...]p an aged Dis­senting Minister, but the most venerable Man I ever saw in my Life: He looked like a good old Puritan, and gave me an Idea of what Stamp those Men were, who first settled New-England. His Counte­nance was very heavenly: He rejoiced much in Spirit at the Sight of me, and prayed most affectionately for a Blessing on my coming to Rhode-Island. In the Evening, with him and some more Friends, I waited on Mr. Honeyman, the Minister of the Church of England, and de­sired the Use of his Pulpit. At first he seem­ed a little unwilling, being desirous to know what extraordinary Call I had to preach on Week-Days, which he said was disor­derly. I answered, St Paul exhorted Ti­mothy to be instant in Season and out of Season; that if the Orders of the Church were rightly complied with, our Ministers should read publick Prayers twice every Day, and then it would not be disorderly, at such Time, to give the People a Ser­mon. As to an extraordinary Call, I told him I clai [...]d none but that Injunction of [Page 51] the Apostle, as we have Opportunity, let us do good unto all Men. He still held out, and did not give any positive An­swer; but at last, after he had withdrawn and consulted with the Gentlemen, he said, if my Preaching would promote the Glory of GOD and the Good of Souls, I was welcome to his Church as often as I would, during my Stay in Town. We then agreed to make Use of it, at Ten in the Morning and Three in the Afternoon. After this, I went and waited on the Go­vernor, who seemed to be a very plain Man and had a very plain House, which much pleased me. By Profession I think, he is a Seventh-Day Baptist; he is a Man of good Report as to his Conduct and Dealing with the World. After a short Visit I returned to take my Leave of Mr. Honeyman, and to fetch my Friends, who were at his House, waiting for me. We then went to the House of Mr. Bourse, who first spake to me when coming out of Church. The House was soon filled with Company. I expounded and prayed with them for about an Hour, and then retired to a Lodging the LORD in his good Providence had provided for me. The blessed JESUS was pleased sweetly to manifest himself to my Soul. A Consi­deration of his distinguishing, repeated [Page 52] Mercies quite melted me down, and I called upon all that was within me to prai­se his holy Name. O LORD, in the Night Season, let me arise and give Thanks unto thee; and let my Talking be of thy loving Kindness and tender Mercies all the Day long!

Monday, Sept. 15. Breakfasted this Morning with old Mr. Clap, and was much edified by his Conversation. I could not but think, whilst at his Table, that I was sitting with one of the Patri­archs. He is full of Days, a Batchelor, and has been a Minister of a Congrega­tion in Rhode-Island upwards of Forty Years. People of all Denominations, I find, respect him. He abounds in good Works, gives all away, and is wonder­fully tender of little Children: Many of them, of different Persuasions, come to be instructed by him. Whenever he dies, I am persuaded, with good old Simeon, he will be enabled to say, LORD, now lettest thou thy Servant depart in Peace. At Ten in the Morning and Three in the After­noon, according to Appointment, I read Prayers and preached in the Church: 'Tis very commodious, and, I believe, will contain 3000 People. It was more than filled in the Afternoon. Person of all Denominations attended. GOD as­sisted [Page 53] me much; I observed Numbers af­fected, and had great Reason to believe, the Word of the LORD had been sharper than a two-edged Sword in some of the Hearers Souls. After Evening Service I received the following Letter.

On reading it, I could not but think this was one of those young Ministers whom GOD had lately made use of, in such a remarkable Manner, at the East [Page 54] End of Long-Island. I sent for him, and found he was the Man. My Heart re­joiced. We walked out and took sweet Council together; and, amongst other Things, he told me, That he came to Rhode-Island under a full Conviction that he should see me there, and had been waiting for me Eight Days: For, he said, these Words were mightily impressed up­on his Heart. ‘Is not Aaron the Levit [...] thy Brother? I know that he can speak well; and also, behold he cometh forth to meet thee, and when he seeth thee he will be glad in his Heart. And I will be with thy Mouth and with his Mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do.’ What render'd this more rema [...]kable, is, I had no Intention of failing into Rhode-Island till about Three Days before I left Carolina; and also, I had a great Desire to put in, if I could, at the East End of Long-Island, to see this very Person, whom the Great GOD now brought unto me. LORD, accept our Thanks, sanctify our Meeting, and teach us both what we shall do, for thy own Name's Sake. After a long Conference, we took leave of each other for the present; but agreed, that we should now be Compani­ons in Travel, till the LORD should make our Way more plain. In the Evening I [Page 55] went to venerable Mr. Clapp's and ex­horted and prayed with a great Multitude, who not only crowded into the House, but thronged every Way about it.. The dear old Man rejoiced to see the Things which he saw, and after my Exhortation was over, dismissed me with his Blessing. LORD JESUS, do thou say Amen to it. Even so, LORD JESUS, Amen and Amen.

Tuesday, Sept, 16. Perceived my self a little low in the Morning; but was enabled to read Prayers and preach with much Flame, Clearness and Power, to still grea­ter Auditors than Yesterday. It being Assembly - Time, the Gentlemen ad­journed in order to attend the Service: And several Invitations were given me to come to other adjacent Places. The People were exceedingly attentive, Tears trickled down their Cheeks; and so far prevailed with me by their Im­portunity, that, by the Divine Permis­sion, I promis'd to call on them in my Return from Boston. When I came home to my Lodgings, the Woman of the House saluted me with, Blessed art thou of the LORD. I looked round to see the Reason of such a Salutation, and on the Couch there lay a young Woman. After a little Conversation, I found she had had a gra­cious [Page 56] Discovery of the LORD JESUS made to her Soul, when I was speaking those Words, Come see a Man that told me all Things that ever I did. She said she had often grieved the Spirit of GOD; but now she believed the LORD was calling her home effectually. The Word, added she came with such Power, that I was obliged to go out of the Church, otherwise I must have disturbed the Congregation. When I came from Home, contrary to my Mother's Inclination, I insisted, I knew not why, on staying at Newport six Weeks: She would have me stay only a Month; but at last consented for me to stay my own Time. To-morrow, says she, is the last Day of the Six Weeks; A [...]d Oh the Goodness of GOD in sending you just now, before my Time was out! or Words to that Effect. Afterwards one or two more came under deep Convictions, crying out, in the Bitterness of their Souls, after the LORD JESUS. I prayed with each of them, and exhorted them not to rest till they found Rest in JESUS CHRIST. In the Evening I went, as I thought, privately, to a Friend's House; but the People were so eager after the Word, that in a short time, I believe, more than a thousand were be­fore the Door, besides those that were within, and filled every Room in the [Page 57] House: I therefore stood upon the Thres­hold, and spoke for near an Hour on these Words, ‘Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after Righteousness, for they shall be filled.’ Blessed be GOD it was a very solemn Meeting. Being Night I could not see how the Hearers were affec­ted; but the LORD assisted me in Speak­ing. Glory be to his great Name! Before I retired to Bed, I went and took my Leave of Mr. Honyman; and had some close Talk with him about the New-Birth. The LORD give him an experimental Know­ledge of it! He was very civil, and would have had me staid with him longer; but being to go on a Journey on the Morrow, after we had conversed about half an Hour, I took my Leave. At my Return to my Lodgings good old Mr. Clapp went with me in a Room, and gave me something for my Orphans, and spoke many affectionate Things to me: Altho' very old, yet he followed me from one end of the Town to the other; so that People said, I had made Mr. Clapp young again. Oh what a Crown of Glory is the hoary Head when found in the Way of Righteousness! He was exceeding desirous of my Coming to Rhode-Island again; which I promised to do by the Di­vine Permission: For Rhode-Island seems to be a Place where much good may be [Page 58] done: They are a very plain People for the Generality; tho' I observed there were some foolish Virgins at Church, cover'd all over with the Pride of Life. I find they are sadly divid [...] amongst themselves as to outward Things. I think there are no less than four different Congregations of of Baptists, two of the Independents, and one of the Quakers Persuasion. Dean Berkly's Name is had in much Respect a­mongst them. The establish'd Church is in good Order as to Externals: But many of the Head-Members, I soon found, were exceeding great Bigots; they seem'd very fearful least I should preach in Mr. Clapp's Meeting-House, and glorified much in my bringing the good old Man to Church. Nor is there less Bigotry, as far as I could find, amongst those of other Communions: All, I fear, place the Kingdom of GOD too much in Meats and Drinks; and have an ill Name abroad for Running of Goods. One day, when I said in my Sermon, ‘What will become of you who cheat the King of his Taxes?’ the whole Congregation seemed surpriz'd, and looked on one another as though they should say, We are guilty. LORD JESUS give them to know thee and the Power of thy Resurrec­tion, and teach them to render unto Caesar [Page 59] the Things which are Caesar's, and to GOD the Things which are GOD's.

Newport and Bristol.

Wednesday, Sept. 17. Left Newport in Rhode-Island about nine in the Morning, and reach'd Bristol, a Town twelve Miles off, about Noon. Several Friends from Rhode-Island accompanied me; and before we came to the Town a Dissenting Mini­ster, as I found afterwards, met me, and in the Name of the Court, which was then sitting at Bristol, invited me and my Friends to dine with them, and also to give them a Sermon: I complied. The Gentlemen received us with much Civility: And after Dinner I preached in the Meeting-House, to more People than might be expected on such sudden Notice. My Heart was much shut up in the Exercise. I felt and saw but little Power: However the Gentleme [...] seemed very thankful. I took my Leave about Four in the Afternoon; and lay at an Inn, about ten Miles farther on the Road. Here the LORD gave me a Spirit of Prayer. I wrestled with GOD in Be­half of my self and Friends. Supped com­fortably. Sung a Hymn, and went to Rest. Thanks be GOD for his unspeakable Mercies!

[Page 60] Thursday, Sept. 18. Rose a long while before Day, and set out as soon as it was Light. Breakfasted at a Minister's House on the Road. Found the People were ap­prised of my Coming, and were sollicitous for my Preaching: But being resolved, under GOD, if possible, to reach Boston that Night, we travel'd on, for near fifty Miles, and came to Boston about eight in the Evening. When we were within four Miles of the Town, the Governor's Son, and several other Gentlemen, and one or two-Ministers, waited at a Gentleman's House to give me the Meeting. They re­ceived me with great Gladness, and told me many more would have come, had not a large Funeral been in the Town, or if there had been more certain Notice of my Arriving. This rejoiced me: For I think I can stand any Thing better than this: It favours too much of human Gran­deur: But I must be tried every Way. The LORD be my Helper. After stop­ping a little while, we went altogether in Company to Boston, to the House of one Mr. Staniford, Brother-in-Law to Dr. Coleman, who long since had sent me an Invitation. Several Ministers, and other Gentlemen came in to pay their Respects. My Heart was but low, and my Body weak; but at the Request of one of the [Page 61] Ministers I gave thanks to our gracious GOD for bringing me in Safety, and prayed that my Coming might be in the Fulness of the Blessing of the Gospel of Peace. We then parted. I eat a little Supper; and then retired; beseeching the LORD to raise my Heart, and make his Power known in the Hearts of his People. Even so LORD JESUS. Amen and Amen.

Friday, Sept. 19. Slept pretty well; and in the Morning perceived fresh Ema­nations of Divine Light, break in upon and refresh my Soul. Was visited by se­veral Gentlemen and Ministers; and went to the Governor's with Esq Willard, Se­cretary of the Province, a Man fearing God, and with whom (tho' before un­known in Person) I have corresponded for some Time. The Governor received me with the utmost Respect. He seemed to savour the Things which were of GOD, and desired me to come and see him as often as I could. At eleven I went to publick Worship at the Church of England; and afterwards waited on the Commissary home, who read Prayers. He received me very courteously, and it being a Day whereon the Clergy of the established Church met, I had Opportunity of con­versing with five of them together. I think one of them first began witb me fo [...] [Page 62] calling that Tennent, and his Brethren, faithful Ministers of JESUS CHRIST. I answer'd, I believed they were. They then questioned me about the Validity of Presbyterian Ordination. I replied, I be­lieved it was valid. They then urged a­gainst me a Passage in my first Journal, where I said that a Baptist Minister at Deal did not give me a satisfactory Answer con­cerning his Mission: I answered, perhaps my Sentiments were altered. And is Mr. Wesley altered in his Sentiments too, said one; for he was very strenuous for the Church, and against all other Forms of Government, when he was at Boston. I answered, he was then a great Bigot; but GOD had since enlarged his Heart, and, I believed, he was like minded with me, as to this Particular. I then urged, that a catholick Spirit was best; and that a Baptist Minister had communicated with me lately at Savannah. And, I suppose, says another Clergyman, you would do him as good a Turn and communicate with him. I answered, Yes. I then urged, that it was best to preach up the New-Birth, and the Power of Godliness; and not to insist so much on the Form, for People would never be brought to one Mind as to that; nor did JESUS CHRIST ever intend it. Yes, but says Dr. Cutler, [Page 63] He did. How do prove it? Why says he, our LORD prayed that all might be one, even as thou, Father and I are one. I replied, that was spoken of the inward Union of the Souls of Believers with JESUS CHRIST, and not of the outward Church. That cannot be, says Dr. Cutler; for how then [...]ould it be said, that the World might know, that thou hast sent me? He then (taking it for granted, that the Church of England was the only true apostolical Church) drew a Parallel between the Jewish and our Church, urging how GOD required all Things to be made according to the Pattern given on the Mount. I an­swered, before the Parallel could be just, it must be proved that every Thing enjoined in our Church was as much a Divine In­stitution as any Rite or Ceremony under the Jewish Dispensation. I added farther, that I saw regenerate Souls among the Baptist, among the Presbyterians, among the Independents, and among the Church-Folks: All Children of GOD, and yet all born again in a different Way of Wor­ship; and who then can tell which is the most Evangelical? What, says the Com­missary, can you see Regeneration with your Eyes? or something to that Purpose. Soon after we began to talk of the Righ­teousness of CHRIST; and the Commis­sary [Page 64] said CHRIST was to make up the Defects of our Righteousness. I asked him if Conversion was not Instantaneous? He was unwilling to confess it; but having just before baptized an Infant at publick Worship, I asked him whether he believed that very Instant in which he sprinkled the Child with Water, the Holy Ghost f [...]ll upon the Child? He answered, Yes. Then says I, according to your own Prin­ciples Regeneration is Instantaneous; and since you will judge of the New-Birth by the Fruits, pray watch that Child, and see if it brings forth the Fruits of the Spirit. I also said, that if every Child was really born again in Baptism, then every baptized Infant would be saved: And so they are, says Dr. Cutler. How do you prove that? Why, says he, the Rubrick says, that all Infants dying after Baptism, before they commit actual Sin are undoubtedly saved. I asked what Text of Scripture there was to prove it. Here, says he, (holding a Prayer Book in his Hand) the Church says so. We then just hinted at Pre­destination. I said, I subscribed to the 17th Article of the Church in its plain literal Sense with all my Heart. We then talked a little about [...]ally falling away from Grace. I said, a true of Child of GOD, tho' he might fall foully yet could never [Page 65] fall finally. But, says he, the Article says Men may fall away from Grace given. But then, says I, observe what follows, and by the Grace of GOD they may rise again▪ Several other Things, of less Consequence, passed between us; but being engaged to dine at my Lodging, and finding how in­consistent they were, I took my Leave, resolving they should not have the Oppor­tunity of denying me their Pulpits. How­ever, they treated me with more Civility than any Set of our own Clergymen have done a long while. The Commissary very kindly urged me to dine with them; but being pre-engaged, I went to my Lodging; and in the Afternoon preached to about 4000 People in Dr. Coleman's Meeting-House; and, as afterwards I was told by several, with great Success. In the Even-I exhorted and prayed with as many as came to my Lodging, and inwardly re­joiced at the Prospect. there was of bringing many Souls in Boston to the saving Know­ledge of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. Grant this, O Father, for thy dear Son's sake. Amen.

Saturday, Sept. 20. Perceived myself grow more and more comfortable both in Body and Soul Was sweetly refresh­ed by several Packets of Letters sent me from different Parts in England and Ame­rica, [Page 66] giving me an Account of the Suc­cess of the Gospel, tho' was a little cast down, to find some English Friends had thrown aside the Use of Means, and others were disputing for sinless Perfection, and universal Redemption. I know of no such Thing asserted in the Gospel, if explain'd aright. LORD, do thou cause even this to work for Good, and give me Grace to oppose such Errors, without Respect to Persons, but with Meekness, Humility and Love. Amen, LORD JESUS, Amen and Amen.

Preach'd in the Morning with much Freedom and Power, to about 6000 Hear­ers, in Dr. Sewal's Meeting; afterwards on the Common, to about 8000; and a­gain at Night, to a thronged Company at my own Lodgings; and then spent the Remainder of the Evening with a few choice Friends, in preparing for the Sab­bath. Oh that it may be a Day of heaven­ly Rest sacred to divine Love! Oh that we may be always in the Spirit on the LORD's Day!

Sunday, Sept. 21. Went this Morning to hear Dr. Colman preach. Din' with his Collegue Mr. Cooper, and preach'd in the Afternoon to a very throng'd Audito­ry, and with great and visible Effects, at Mr. Foxcroft's Meeting; immediately af­ter on the Common, to about 15,000, [Page 67] and again at my Lodging, as usual, to a greater Company than before. Some afterwards came up into my Room. I felt much of the divine Presence in my own Soul, and tho' hoarse, was enabled to speak with much Power, and could have spoke, I believe, till Midnight. To see the People so willing to hear makes me forget myself. Oh that it may be my Sleep, my Meat and Drink, to do the Will of my heavenly Father! Oh that all who come to hear the Word, may take the Kingdom of GOD by force! Amen and Amen.

Monday, Sept. 22. Preached in the Morning, at Mr. Webb's Meeting-House, to about 6000 Hearers in the House, be­sides great Numbers standing about the Doors. The Presence of the LORD was amongst them. Look where I would a­round me, visible Impressions were made upon the Auditory. Most wept for a con­siderable Time. Some time after I re­ceiv'd a Letter, wherein were these Words.

But what I must give the Preference to, was that gracious Season at the New North, the Monday following, where there was more of the Presence of GOD thro' the whole of the Ministration than ever I had known at one Time thro' the whole Course of my Life. Justly might it have been said of that Place, [Page 68] it was no other than the House of GOD and the Gate of Heaven. O how dreadfu [...] was the Place! and yet, O how delightful! The LORD JESUS seem'd to be visibly walking in that his golden Candlestick, to try some of the many Thousands that were th [...] present. But O! how few were prepared for so holy an Inquisition? I am sure I know one who could not but tremble at the Tho' [...] of it, and who indeed could help crying out, Wo is me, for I am undone, because I am a Man of unclean Lips; for mine Eyes have seen the King, the LORD of Hosts. Indeed, my own Soul was so deeply abused and overwhelm'd with such unusual Melt­ings, that I could have been glad of some pri­vate Corner in that House, to pour out my Soul without Disturbance to the Audience. The Spirit of GOD indeed, seem'd move­ing upon the Face of the Waters at that Time; and who knows, but that, to a great many Souls, GOD was pleased to say, Let there be Light, and there was Light.

In the Afternoon I went to preach at Mr. Chickly's Meeting-House; but GOD was pleased to humble us by a very awful Providence: For, when the Meeting-House was filled with People, tho' there was no real Danger, on a sudden the Peo­ple were all in an Uproar, and so unac­countably [Page 69] surprized, that some threw themselves out of the Window, others threw themselves out of the Gallery; and others trampled upon one another, so that some were actually killed, and others dan­gerously wounded. I happen'd to come in the Midst of the Uproar, and saw two or three lying on the Ground in a pitia­ble Condition. GOD was pleased to give me Presence of Mind, so that I gave No­tice, I would immediately preach on the Common. The Weather was wet, but about 8000 followed into the Field, to whom I preached from these. Words, ‘— Go out into the Highways and Hedges, and compel them to come in.’ I endeavoured, as GOD enabled me, to improve what had befallen us; and tho' Satan in this has bruised our Heel, yet I doubt not, but even this will be a Means of bruising his accursed Head. LORD, thy Judgments are like the great Deep! Thy Footsteps are not known, Just and ho­ly art thou, O King of Saints!

In the Evening perceived myself weak in Body, so that I could not say much at the House where I supped; but GOD by his blessed Spirit greatly refreshed and comforted my Soul. Blessed be GOD, I [...]ind what our SAVIOUR says, exceeding true. He that believeth on me as the Scrip­ture [Page 70] has spoken, out of his Belly shall flow Rivers of living Water. I drink of GOD's Pleasures as out of a River. Oh that all were made Partakers of this living Water. They would never thirst after the deadly Pleasures of this lower World.

Roxbury and Boston.

Tuesday, Sept. 23. Went this Morning with Dr. Colman and the Secretary, to Roxbury, Three Miles from Boston, to see one Mr. Walter, a good old Puritan, who, with his Predecessor Mr. Elliot, com­monly called the Apostle of the Indians, but now with GOD, have been Pastors of that Congregation 106 Years. I had but little Conversation with him, my Stay was so very short; but I remember he told me, He was glad to hear I said, Man was half a Devil and half a Beast. The more People drink into GOD's Spi­rit, the more, I find, they are inclin'd to debase the natural Man.

About Eleven were return'd, and I preach­ed in Mr. Gee's Meeting-House, but not to a very crouded Auditory, because Peo­ple were in doubt where I would preach. Dined at the Secretary's, and preached in the Afternoon at Dr. Sewal's to a throng'd Congregation; and exhorted and prayed as usual at my own Lodgings; at neither [Page 71] Place without some Manifestations of a divine Power accompanying the Word. LORD, let thy Presence always follow me, or otherwise I shall be but as a sounding Bross or tinkling Cymbal!

Cambridge and Boston,

Wednesday, Sept. 24. Went this Morn­ing to see and preach at Cambridge, the chief College for training up the Sons of the Prophets in all New-England. It has one President, four Tutors and up­wards of an Hundred Students. It is scarce as big as one of our least Colleges in Oxford; and as far as I could gather from some, who well knew the State of it, not far superior to our Universities in Piety and true Godliness. Tutors neglect to pray with and examine the Hearts of their [...]. Discipline is at too low an Ebb. Bad Books are become fashionable amongst them. Tillotson and Clarke are read instead of Shepperd, Stoddard and such like Evangelical Writers; and therefore I chose to preach from these Words: — ‘We are not as many who corrupt the Word of GOD, &c’ — In the Con­clusion of my Sermon I made a close Ap­p [...]ication to Tutors and Students. A great Number of neighbouring Ministers at­tended, as indeed they do at all other [Page 72] Times; and GOD gave me great Free­dom and Boldness of Speech. The Pre­sident of the College and Minister of the Parish treated me very civilly. In the Afternoon I preach'd again in the College Yard, without particular Application to the Students. I believe there were 7000 Hearers. The holy Spirit melted many Hearts. The Word was attended with a manifest Power, and a Minister wrote me Word soon after, that he believed one of his Daughters was savingly wrought upon at that Time. LORD, add daily to thy Church such as shall be saved!

Paid my Respects to the Lieutenant Governor who lives at Cambridge; re­turn'd in the Evening to Boston, and ex­horted and prayed with many People who waited [...]ound the Door for a spiritual Morsel. I believe our LORD did not send them empty away. Blessed JESUS, feed them all with the Bread of Life which com­eth down from Heaven!

Thursday, Sept. 25. Preach'd the week­ly Lecture at Mr. Foxcroft's Meeting-House; but was so oppressed with such▪ Sense of my bafe Ingratitude to my dearest SAVIOUR, that Satan would fain have tempted me to hold my Tongue, and not invite poor Sinners to JESUS CHRIST, because I was so great a Sinner myself. [Page 73] But GOD enabled me to withstand the Temptation; and since JESUS CHRIST had shewn such Mercy to, and did [...]ot withdraw his holy Spirit from me▪ the Chief of Sinners, I was enabled the more feelingly to talk of his Love; and after­wards found, that one Stranger in particu­lar was, in all Probability, effectually con­victed by that Morning's Sermon. After publick Worship I went, at his Excellen­cy's Invitation, and din'd with the Go­vernor. Most of the Ministers of the Town were invited with me. Before Dinner the Governor sent for me up in­to his Chamber. He wept, wished me good Luck in the Name of the LORD, and recommended himself, Ministers and People to my Prayers. Immediately af­ter Dinner, at the Governor's Motion, I prayed explicitly for them all. Went in his Coach to the End of the Town; but [...] such a Sense of my Vileness upon my Soul, that I wondred People did not stone me. Cross'd a Ferry, and preach'd at Charlestown, a Town lying on the North Side of Boston. The Meeting-House was very capacious and quite filled: A graci­ous Melting was discernable through the whole Congregation; and I perceived much Freedom and Sweetness in my own Soul, tho' the Damp I felt in the Morn­ing [Page 74] was not quite gone off. Oh when shall I be free from indwelling Sin! O LORD, deliver me from the Body of this Death!

In the Evening I exhorted and prayed as usual at my Lodging, and, blessed be GOD, I found a great Alteration in the Hearers. They now began to melt and weep under the Word. Oh that the LORD may beat them down with the Ham­mer of his Word, till the Heart of Stone be entirely taken away! Even so, LORD JESUS, Amen and Amen.

Friday, Sept. 26. Preached in the Morning at Roxbury, from a little Ascent, to many Thousands of People, with much of the divine Presence amongst us. Seve­ral, I think, came afterwards to me, tel­ling how they were struck at that Time under the Word; and a Minister wrote to me thus,

Din'd at Judge Dudley's. Preached in the Afternoon from a Scaffold erected without Mr. Byles his Meeting-House, to near double the Number as in the Morn­ing. Snatch'd a few Moments to write a few Lines to Friends at England; gave a short Exhortation to a great Crowd of People, and then spent the Remainder of the Evening with several Ministers at Mr. H—n's. Our Conversation tended to the Use of Edifying. After Supper we sung Psalms; one prayed and then we took our Leave. Oh that the LORD may answer our Requests, and revive his Work in the Midst of the Years! We wait for thy Salvation, O LORD! O let thy Kingdom come!

[Page 76] Saturday, September 27. Preach'd this Morning at Mr. Welsted's Meeting-House. Din'd with Col. Wendell, and preach'd in the Afternoon on the Common, to about 15,000 People. But, Oh! how did the Word run! It rejoiced me to see such Numbers greatly affected, so that some of them, I believe, could scarcely abstain from crying out, That Place was no other than a Bethel and the Gate of Heaven. After Sermon I visited and prayed with two different Persons that were much hurt in the late Fright, and then went Home to my Lodging. The Power and Presence of the LORD accompanied and followed me. Many now wept exceed­ingly, and cried out under the Word like Persons that were really hungring and thirsting after Righteousness. And after I left them, GOD gave me to wrestle with him in my Chamber, in Behalf of some dear Friends then present and others that were absent from us. The Spirit of the LORD was upon them all: It made Intercession with Groanings that cannot be uttered. Oh let them enter into thy Ears, O LORD of Sabba [...]!

Sunday, September 28. [...] Preach'd in the Morning at Dr. Sewal's Meeting-House to a very crowded Auditory, and almost with as much Power and visible Appea­rance [Page 77] of GOD among us as Yesterday in the Afternoon. Collected 555 l. for my little Lambs. Was taken very ill after Dinner, vomited violently, but was en­abled to preach at Dr. Colman's in the Afternoon, to as great if not a greater Con­gregation than in the Morning. Here also 470 l. were collected for the Orphan-House in Georgia. In both Places all Things were carried on with great De­cency and Order. People went slowly out as tho' they had not a Mind to escape giving, and Dr. Colman said, it was the most pleasant Time he ever had enjoyed in that Meeting-House thro' the whole Course of his Life. Blessed be GOD! After Sermon I perceived myself some­what [...]refresh'd. Supt very early. Had the Honour of a private Visit from the Governor, who came full of Affection to take his Leave of me for the present. Went at their Request and preach'd to a great Number of Negroes, on the Con­version of the Ethiopian, Acts the 8th (at which the poor Creatures as well as many white People were much affected) and at my Return gave a Word of Exhortation [...]o a Crowd of People who were waiting at my Lodging. My animal Spirits were almost exhausted, and my Legs, thro' Ex­pence of Sweat and Vomiting, almost rea­dy [Page 78] to sink under me. But the LORD visited my Soul, and I went to Bed great­ly refreshed with divine Consolation. Oh what am I, that I should thus daily be fed with heavenly Manna! LORD, thou fillest my Soul with Marrow and Fatness! O let me praise thee with joyful Lips!

Marble-head, Salem and Ipswich.

Monday, Sept. 29. Set out about Seve [...] in the Morning, got to Marblehead, a large Town Twenty Miles from Boston, about Eleven. Preached to some Thou­sands on a broad Place in the Middle of the Town, but not with much visible Ef­fect. Dined with Mr. Bernard, one of the Ministers of the Place. Rode to Salem, Four Miles from Marblehead, and preach'd there also to about 7000 People. Here the LORD manifested forth his Glory. One Man, I believe, was struck down by the Power of the Word. In every Part of the Congregation might be seen Persons under great Concern. One Mr. Clark, a good Minister, as is granted by all Lovers of GOD, seem'd to be al­most in Heaven. Salem is the first settled and, except Boston, the largest Town in all New-England; but rather, as far as I could see and hear, excels it for Politeness. Upon Enquiry I found the Inhabitants [Page 79] had been sadly divided about their Minis­ter; and GOD was pleased, before I knew their Circumstances, to direct me to a suitable Subject. LORD heal their Divisions, and grant, that with one Heart and one Mind they may endeavour to glorify thy holy Name!

After the Exercise I immediately set out and got to Ipswich, another large Town, Sixteen Miles (the Way we went) distant from Salem. Two or three Gen­ [...]lemen came to meet me; and I and my Friends were kindly entertained at the House of Mr. R—rs, one of the Minis­ters of the Place. The LORD reward him and all others a Thousand-fold who re­fresh our Bowels in the LORD!

Ipswich, Newbury and Hampton.

Tuesday, Sept. 30. Preached at Ipswich about Ten in the Morning to some Thou­sands. The LORD gave me Freedom, and there was a great Melting in the Con­gregation. Din'd, set out, and reach'd Newbury, another large Town Twelve Miles distant from Ipswich, about Three. Here again the LORD accompanied the Word with his Power. The Meeting-House was very large; many Ministers were present, and People were greatly af­fected. Blessed be GOD, his divine Power [Page 80] attends us more and more. Took Ferry immediately after Sermon, went with Mr. Cotton, Minister of the Place, who came to meet me, in a Chaise to Hampton, ano­ther great Town, Nine Miles from New­bury. The Night was both dark and rainy; But he with whom the Darkness is no Darkness, brought us in Safety to Hampton, where I was pleased to see more Plainness in Mr. Cotton's House than I had seen in any Ministers House since my Arrival. His Wife was as one that ser­veth. Oh that all Ministers Wives were so: For there's nothing gives me more Offence, than to see Clergymen's Wives dressed out in the Pride of Life. They bring a Reproach upon Religion. They generally live up to the utmost of their Income, and, being above Working, after their Husbands Decease they are of all Women the most miserable. From such a Wife good LORD of thy infinite Mercy deliver my Soul!

Hampton, Portsmouth and York.

Wednesday, October 1. Preach'd in the Morning, tho' with not so much Free­dom as usual, at Hampton, to some Thou­sands in the open Air. The Wind was almost too high for me. Some, tho' not many, were affected, GOD's Spirit blow­eth [Page 81] when and where it li [...]eth. After Dinner rode in Company with many to Portsmouth, a large Town about Fourteen Miles from Hampton. Got thither in a­bout an Hour and an half. Preach'd to a Polite Auditory, but so very uncon­cerned that I began to question whether I had been speaking to rational or brute Creatures. Seeing no immediate Effects of the Word preach'd, I was a little de­jected; but GOD, to comfort my Heart, sent one young Man, crying out in great Anguish of Spirit, What shall I do to be saved? — Oh how does GOD pity the Weakness of his Children! Why wast thou [...]east down O my Soul! — Crossed a Fer­ry immediately after Sermon, and went ever a very stony Way to York, a Town Thirteen Miles, round the Ferry, distant from Portsmouth. Hither I came to see one Mr. Moody, a worthy, plain and pow­erful Minister of JESUS CHRIST, tho' now much impaired by old Age. He has l [...]ed by Faith for many Years, would [...]a [...]e no settled Salary, and has be [...] much despised by the Haters, and as much re­ [...]pected by the true Lovers of the blessed JESUS. He came as far as Hampton to meet me, but getting before him in our Night Travelling, a Physician, his Neigh­bour, who came also to meet me, receiv­ed [Page 82] me into his House, and kindly enter­tained us. Some of our Fellow-Travellers lost their Way, but came to us some Time after our Arrival at York. Here we supt and prayed very comfortably together. The Air agreed mightily with my Con­stitution. As I came along I was sur­prized to see such Improvements made in the Space of an Hundred Years, and could not but fancy myself in Old-England. Surely GOD is a GOD keeping Cove­nant. He has blessed the present Gene­ration for their Fathers Sake, with all tem­poral Blessings. LORD with these tempo­ral, give them spiritual Blessings, otherwise their Prosperity will destroy them!

York and Portsmouth.

Thursday, Oct. 2. Was much comforted to hear good Mr. Moody tell me, That he [...]lieved I should preach to an Hundred New Creatures this Morning in his Con­gregation: And indeed I believe I did; for when I came to preach I could speak little or no Terror, but most Consolation. I preach'd both Morning and Evening. The Hearers look'd plain and simple, and Tears trickled apace down most of their Che [...]ks. Indeed we saw the Out-Goings of the LORD in his Sanctuary. But one Thing put a little Damp upon my [Page 83] Soul, and I hope did me good. Mr. Moody ha [...] a Son, a Minister, who was once full of Faith and Joy in the Holy Ghost, and walked in the Light of GOD's Countenance, and made a full Proof of his Ministry: But for these Two Years last past has walked in Darkness and saw no Light. He has an inexpressible Gloo [...] myness upon his Soul, and cannot apply any of the Promises to himself. I was inform'd that he was at Meeting, but dared not see me. I was assisted to pray for him, and so much the more earnestly, not knowing but his Case may be [...] hereafter. LORD, let me not be high-minded, but fear. Into thy Hands I [...] ­mend my Spirit. I desire to take no Th [...] for the Morrow. Deal with me as it shall please thee. Justly mayest thou take every thing from me: For I have wretchedly a­bused thy loving Kindness. GOD be [...] ­ciful to me a Sinner.

Left York about 4 in the Evening. Reach­ed Portsmouth by Night, where I supped, conversed, & sung Psalms very comfortably wi [...] my Friends. The LORD was pleased to [...] up the Light of his blessed Countenance more and more upon my Soul. Rightly is JESUS called EMANUEL. He is GOD not only with but in us. Oh that I [...] ever provoke him to depart from [...].

Perismouth, Hampton and Newberry.

Friday, Octob. 3. Preached this Morn­ing at Portsmouth, to a far greater Con­gregation, and blessed be GOD, with much better Effect than before. Instead of Preaching to dead Stocks, I now had Leason to believe I was Preaching to li­ving Men: People began to melt soon af­ter I began to pray, and the Power encrea­sed more and more during the whole Ser­mon. The Word seem'd to pierce through and through, and carry such Con­victions along with it, that many, who before had industriously spoken Evil of me, were made asham'd of themselves. Mr. Shutliff, the Minister, when he after­wards sent me 97 l. 7 s. 6 d. collected at this Time for the Orphan-House, wrote thus, ‘You have left Numbers here under deep Im [...]ons, and I trust in GOD they [...] [...]ot all wear off; but that the [...] of some will be kept up and [...] till they have had their desired Effect.’ Amen and Amen. Hasten'd after Dinner to Hampton. Preached to several Thousands of People, with a good [...] of Life and Power; collected for my little Ones, and set out directly for New­bury, which we reach'd about eight at Night, [...] were kindly entertain'd at a [Page 85] Gentleman's House, with all my Friends. My Heart was much enlarged and filled with Joy. In the Way two old Disciples came to me acquainting me what sweet re­freshing Times GOD had vouchsafed them under my Ministry. LORD, not unto me, not unto me; but unto thy Free Grace be all the Glory.

Newbury, Ipswich, and Salem.

Saturday, Octob. 4. Lay at the House of Mr. Lowel, Minister of the Place. Preach'd in the Morning, to a very thronged Congregation; and saw the Out-Goings of GOD in his Sanctuary. Col­lected. Hasted to Ipswich. Preach'd to a larger Congregation, and with as much Power as when there last. Got to Salem about eight at Night; was most kindly received by Col. P—r, and also was fa­voured with a Visit from the Minister be­longing to the Church of England. Oh that they would preach the Articles to which they have subscribed!

Sunday, Octob. 5. Preach'd at eight a Clock this Morning in the Meeting-House, at the Ministers Request. Read Prayers, and assisted at the Sacrament in the Church of England; but thought Mat­ters were not all carried on with Decency and Order. Preach'd again in the After­noon [Page 86] in the Meeting-House; but saw no such Power all the Day, as when I preach'd here a few Days ago. Oh that the LORD may reach the Hearts of the Inhabitants, and make them a peculiar People zealous of good Works!

Salem, Marblehead, Moulden and Boston.

Monday, Octob. 6. Spent the Sabbath-Evening very comfortably with my dear Fellow-Travellers, in praying and singing spiritual Songs. I trust we made Melody with Grace in our Hearts unto the LORD. Set out from Salem about nine: Preached at Marblehead, about eleven, and with such Power, that, I trust, it will be a Day much to be remembered by many Souls. I was upon the Mount myself, and the LORD attended his Word with mighty Power. The two Ministers presented me 70 l. 2 s. 6 d. for the Orphans, which they had voluntarily collected Yesterday in their own private Meetings. Was m [...]st affectionately received and entert [...] [...] Col. M—n, from whom I parted [...] with Tears. The LORD make him [...] Faith and good Works. At the [...] of Mr. Emerson, Son-in-Law to [...] Moody, and, I believe, a real Man o [...] [...] we went to Maulden, fourteen [...] [Page 87] Marblehead, where I preached, not with so much Power as in the Morning: But one Girl came to me, crying and saying, She feared she had not true Faith in JESUS. Oh that Thousands of others began to doubt also! Here the Secretary, and several Friends from Boston, gave us the Meeting. With them, after Sermon, I immediately set out, and got privately into Boston, a­bout seven at Night. Received comfort­able Letters from Georgia and Carolina, and also, had the Satisfaction of hearing that Brother Seward was safely arrived in England. The LORD prosper the Work of his Hands upon him!

Perceived my Health to be much im­proved since I left Boston: And tho' I rode 178 Miles, and preach'd 16 Times, I trust, to the great Benefit of Thousands, yet I was not in the least wearied or fa­tigued. The Spirit of the LORD was up­on me. I set up till near midnight to an­swer Correspondents, and settle my pri­vate Affairs. Afterwards went to Rest, full of Peace, and desiring to be thankful to the LORD, for causing me thus to re­new my Strength. Oh what a good Master is JESUS CHRIST!

BOSTON

Tuesday, Octob. 7. Preached, both Mor­ning and Evening in Dr. Coleman's Meet­ing House. Both Times with much Power. People seem'd greatly rejoiced at my Arri­val, it being confidently reported that I died suddenly, or was poisoned: But I find I must not die; but live and declare the Works of the LORD. Father, I submit! Thy Will be done. Visited, I be­lieve, a true Disciple, who had been s [...]ck for a long Season: The LORD has made his Bed in his Sickness: He has been ena­bled to rejoice in Tribulation. Who would but be a Christian? Supp'd and gave a Word of Exhortation to many People, at a House, which, I trust, the LORD will visit with his Salvation. Wherever I go People will follow me; and I now hourly almost receive Letters from Persons under Convictions, and congratulatory Letters, and Visits from many Children of GOD, whose Souls have been abundantly refresh­ed by the Ministration of the Word. Bles­sed be GOD, who causes me to rejoice in the F [...]icity of his Chosen, Amen and Amen.

Wednesday, Oct. 8. Went with the Go­vernor, in his Coach, to Mr. W [...]s Meeting-House, where I preached both Morning and Evening to very great Au­ditories, [Page 89] both, Times, especially in the Morning, JESUS CHRIST manifested forth his Glory. Many Hearts melted within them, and I think I never was so drawn out to pray for and invite little Children to JESUS CHRIST as I was that Morning. A little before I had heard of a Child who was taken sick just after it had heard me preach, and said, He would go to Mr. Whitefield's GOD, and died in a short Time. This encouraged me to speak to the little ones. But Oh how were the old People affected! When I said, Little Children, if your Parents will not come to CHRST, do you come and go to Heaven without them. There seem'd to be but few dry Eyes, look where I would. The Word smote them I believe through and through, and my own Soul was very much carried out. Surely it was the LORD's Passover! I have not seen a greater Commotion since my preaching at Boston. Glory be to GOD who hath not forgotten to be gracious! Went with the Governor, who seem'd more and more affected, in his Coach to my Lodgings; snatch'd a few Moments to write a Let­ter or two; gave a Word of Exhortation to a great Crowd of People [...] and then slipped out privately at a Backdoor, and went and supped at a Man's House whose [Page 90] Wife and Sister, as well as himself, I trust, the LORD will deliver from the Guilt and Power of their Sins. Amen. Come, LORD JESUS, come quickly!

Thursday, Oct. 9. Have been applied to, this and every Morning since my Re­turn, by many Souls under deep Distress; and was only grieved, that I could not have more Time with them. Preach'd this Morning the Publick Lecture at Dr. Sewal's Meeting-House, which was very muc [...] crowded. When I left my Lodg­ings I had fixed on and folded down a particular Text, but when I came near the Meeting-House I found it much im­pressed upon my Heart, that I should preach upon our LORD's Conference with Nicodemus: I acquainted a Friend with it. When I came into the Pulpit I saw a great Number of Ministers sitting around and before me. And when I came to these Words, Art thou a Master of Israel and knowest not these Things? the LORD enabled me to open my Mouth boldly against unconverted Ministers, to caution Tutors to take Care of their Pu­pils, and also to advise Ministers part [...] ­larly to examine into the Experiences of Candidates for Ordination: For I am ve­rily persuaded, the Generality of Preachers talk of an unknown unfelt [...]. And [Page 91] the Reason why Congregations have been so dead, is, because they have had dead Men preaching to them. Oh that the LORD may quicken and revive them for his own Name sake! For how can dead Men beget living Children? Its true [...] ­deed, GOD may convert People by the Devil if he pleases, and so he may by un­converted Ministers: But I believe he seldom makes use of either of them for this Purpose. No! the LORD will chuse Vessels made meet by the Operations of the blessed Spirit for this sacred Use. And as for my own Part, I would not lay Hands on an unconverted Man for Ten Thousand Worlds. Unspeakable Free­dom GOD gave me while treating on this Head. After Sermon I din'd with tho. Governor, who seem'd more kindly affec­ted than ever, and particularly told one of the Ministers, who has lately began to preach Extempore, That he was very glad he had found out a Way to save his Eyes. Oh that others would follow him! I believe they would find the LORD ready to help and assist them. In the Afternoon I preached on the Common to about 15000 People, and collected for the Orphan-House upwards of 200l. Just as I had [...] my Sermon, a Ticket was put [...] wherein I was desired to pray [Page 92] for a Person just entered upon the Mi­nistry; but under Apprehensions that he was not converted; GOD enabled me to pray for him with my whole Heart; and I hope that Ticket will teach many o­thers, not to run before they can give an Account of their Conversion. If they do, they offer GOD strange Fire. Went to the Funeral of one belonging to the Council; but do not like the Custom at Boston, of not speaking at the Grave. When can Ministers Prayers and Exhor­tations be more suitable, than when the Corps before will silently as it were assist them, and with a Kind of Dumb Orato­ry, bid the Spectators consider their latter End. When the Funeral was over, I went as privately as possible to the Alms-House, and enlarged on these Words, The Poor receive the Gospel, for near half an Hour. Then I went to the Work-House, where I prayed with and exhorted a great Number of People who crowded after me, besides those belonging to the House, for an Hour more; then, hearing there was a considerable Number waiting for me at my Lodging (tho' some cried out, spare thyself) God strengthen'd me to go and g [...]ve them a spiritual Morsel, and then I went and eat Bread comfortably at a Friend's House, whither I was invited, and [Page 93] soon after retired to my Rest. Oh how sweet is Sleep after working for JESUS! LORD strengthen me yet a little longer, and then let me sleep in thee never to awake in this vain World again! Still I must intreat thee, if most conducive to thy Glory and the Good of Souls, to make no long Tarrying, O my GOD!

Charles-Town and Reading.

Friday, Oct. 10. Was still busied, from the very Moment I rose till I went out, in answering poor Souls that came to me under great Distress. About Nine went with Mr. Cooper over Charlestown Ferry, where I preached with much Demonstra­tion of the Spirit, and collected 156 l. for the Orphan-House. Then I din'd at Mys­tick, Four Miles from Charlestown, at the House of one Esq Royal, a young rich Man, who has seem'd much affected for some Time. Oh that he may not lack One Thing! Immediately after Dinner, we hasted to Reading, Twelve Miles fromCharlestown, there I preached to many Thousands, and collected 51l. 5s. for my little Ones, and observed a considerable Melting in the Congregation. Return'd and supp'd at Mr. Royal's; was weak, very weak in Body, but refreshed to hear of a poor Girl found sitting at the Gat [...] [Page 94] in the Cold: For, being examined by a truly-experienced Friend, he found she was under very strong Convictions, and had followed me from Roxbury. She said, she wanted Nothing but CHRIST, and CHRIST she would have. Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after Righte­ousness, for they shall be filled. LORD, let this Promise be fulfilled in her Heart!

Cambridge and Boston.

Saturday, Octob. 11. Was but weak in Body, and perceived I had taken Cold: But Preaching I find a constant Remedy against all slight Indispositions. Went to Cambridge, four Miles from Mystick. Preached at the Meeting-House Door, to a great Body of People, who stood very attentively tho' it rained, and were at the latter Part of the Sermon much affected. It being at the University, I discoursed on these Words, ‘Noah the Eighth Person, a Preacher of Righteousness;’ and en­deavoured to shew the Qualifications pro­per for a true Evangelical Preacher of CHRIST's Righteousness. The LORD open'd my Mouth and I spoke very plain­ly to Tutors and Pupils. One Hundred Pounds were collected for the Orphans. After Sermon the President very kindly entertained me and my Friends. About [Page 95] Four we reached Boston; I preached im­mediately at Dr. Sewal's Meeting-House; exhorted a great Company afterwards at my Lodging; and then was employed till near Midnight in settling my private▪ Affairs, answering Letters, and speaking to Souls under Convictions. One little Girl came to me, about Eight Years old, under deep Convictions: She, as her Friends told me, had been wrestling for CHRIST, and, whilst she was wrestling, it came to her Mind, that JESUS being in an Agony, prayed yet so much the more earnestly, and that an Angel was sent from Heaven to strengthen him; this encouraged her to persevere, and her Soul soon received some Comfort. Ano­ther Minister's little Daughter has bee [...] quite restless after CHRIST, Night and Day. And a young Man, about Four­teen, came to me crying, saying, Sir I am convicted but not converted: Oh pray for [...]e! — I thank thee holy Father, LORD [...]f Heaven and Earth, that thou hast hid [...]hese Things from the wise and pru­ [...]ent, and hast revealed them unto Babes. Even so Father, for so it seemeth good in thy Sight

Sunday, Octob. 12. Perceived I was much refreshed in Body and Soul when I [...]ose in the Morning. Spoke to as many as [Page 96] I could, that came for spiritual Advice. Preached with great Power and Affection at Dr. Sewal's Meeting-House, which was so exceedingly thronged, that I was obliged to get in at one of the Windows, Din'd with the Governor, who came to me after Dinner, when I was retired, and weeping, most earnestly desired my Pray­ers. The LORD be with and in him for Time and Eternity. Went and heard Dr. Sewal preach in the Afternoon; was sick at Meeting, and also after it was over. Went with the Governor in his Coach to the Common, where I preach'd my Fare­wel Sermon to near 30,000 People, a Sight I have not seen since I left Black-heath, and a Sight perhaps never before seen in all America: It being Duskish be­fore I had done, the Sight was more so­lemn. Numbers, great Numbers melted into Tears, when I talked of leaving them. I was very particular in my Application, both to Rulers, Ministers and People, commending what was commendable, and blaming what was blame-worthy, and exhorted them steddily to imitate the Piety of their Fore-Fathers, that, whether I was present or whether I was absent, I might hear of their Affairs, that with one Heart and with one Mind they [...] striving together for the Faith of the [...]. Af­ter [Page 97] Sermon the Governor went with me to my Lodgings. I stood in the Passage and spoke to a great Company, both with­in and without the Doors; but they were so deeply affected, and cried out so loud, that I was obliged to leave off praying. The Governor was highly pleased to see the Power of GOD: He took his Leave in the most affectionate Manner, and said, He would come and take me in his Coach to Charlestown Ferry, the Morrow Morn­ing. The Remainder of the Evening was almost entirely taken up in speaking to Souls deeply wounded by the Word. The poor Girl that followed me from Roxbury, I believe, had a saving Discovery of JE­SUS CHRIST this Morning: For when I had preached on these Words, ‘The LORD our Righteousness,’ she was enabled to say, The LORD my Righteous­ness. Her Soul received Comfort, and she knew her Sins were forgiven her, and was not afraid to di [...]. Poor Creature! I found upon Enquiry she could not read; which shews the Sovereignty of GOD's Electing Love, and confirms what the Apostle says, that the LORD chuses the foolish Things of this World to confound the Wise. Many offered to go with me to Georgia, and Charity I believe will incline me to take her; for she is cast out, in Ef­fect, [Page 98] already for CHRIST's Sake. Bles­sed be GOD for what he has done at Boston! I hope a glorious Work is now begun, and that the LORD will stir up some faithful Labourers to carry it on. Boston is a large populous Place; very wealthy; has the Form kept up very well; but has lost much of the Power of Religion. I have not heard of any re­markable Stir in it for these many Years. Ministers and People are obliged to con­fess, that the Love of many is waxed cold. Both, for the Generality, seem'd too much conform'd to the World. There's much of the Pride of Life to be seen in their Assemblies. Jewels, Patches and gay Apparel are commonly worn by the female Sex. Little Boys and Girls I ob­served commonly dressed up in the Pride of Life; and the little Infants that were brought to Baptism, were wrapped in such fine Things, and so much Pains ta­ken to dress them, that one would think, they were brought thither to be initiated into rather than renounce the Pomps and Vanities of this wiched World. There are Nine Meeting-Houses of the Congre­gational Persuasion; one Baptist; one French, and one belonging to the Scotch Irish. There are two monthly and one weekly Lecture, and that too but poorly [Page 99] attended. Several Ministers complain'd to me of it. I mentioned it in my Ser­mon, and I trust GOD will stir up the People, more frequently to tread the Courts of the LORD's House. One Thing Bos­ton is remarkable for, The external Ob­servation of the Sabbath. Men in Civil Offices have a Regard for Religion. The Governor encourages them; and the Mi­nisters and Magistrates seem to be more united than in any other Place where I have been. Both were exceedingly civil to me during my Stay. I never saw so little Scoffing, never had so little Opposi­tion: But one might easily foresee, much Opposition will hereafter arise, when I come to be more particular in my Appli­cation to particular Persons: For I fear many, many rest in a Head-Knowledge, are close Pharisees, having only a Name to live. It must needs be so, when the Po­wer of Godliness is dwindled away, and the Form only of Religion is become fashion­able amongst a People. However, no doubt there are a few Names left in Sardis, that have not defiled their Garments. Many Letters came to me, as far as I could judge, from truly p [...]ous People, in which they heavily complained of the sad Dege­neracy of their Times; and hoped that GOD was now about to revive his Work [Page 100] in the Midst of the Years. Even so LORD JESUS, Amen and Amen, say I with my whole Heart: For Boston People are dear to my Soul. They were greatly affected by the Word, fol­lowed Night and Day, and were very Li­beral to my dear Orphans. I promised, GOD willing, to visit them again, and intend to fulfil my Promise, when it shall please GOD to bring me again from my Native Country. In the mean while, dear, dear Boston, Adieu. The LORD be with thy Ministers and People, and grant that the Remnant which is yet left, accord­ing to the Election of Grace, may [...]ke Root downwards and bear Fruit upwards, and fill the Land!

Boston and Concord.

Monday, Octob. 13. Took an affecti­onate Leave of many dear Friends, espe­cially of mine Host and Hostess, who have been exceedingly kind to me and mine, and wept over me at our Departure from them. The LORD reward them a Thou­sand-fold. Went with the Governor in his Coach to Charlestown Ferry. He too [...] me to the Boat, kissed me, and, with Tears in his Ey [...], bid me farewel. bout Noon I reached Concord, a Town 13 Miles from Boston. Here I preach'd [Page 101] twice to some Thousands in the open Air, and comfortable Preaching it was. The Hearers were sweetly melted down; and my Soul was as it were in Heaven: I saw him that was invisible. Forty-five Pounds were collected for the Orphans. The Minister of the Parish being, I believe, a true Child of GOD, I chose to stay all Night at his House, that we might rejoice together. The LORD was with us. The Spirit of the LORD came upon me; and GOD gave me to wrestle with him for my Friends, especially those then with me. They all felt his Power. Brother Bliss, the Minister, broke into Floods of Tears; and we had Reason to cry out, It was good for us to be here. — Oh blessed be thy Name, O LORD, for these sweet Re­freshings in our Way towards the heavenly Canaan!

Sudbury, Marlborough and Worcester.

Tuesday, Oct. 14. Preached at Sudbury, about Six Miles from Concord, about Ten, where one Mr.Loring, a Man of GOD, presides. Preached to some Thousands with Power, and observed a considerable Commotion in the Assembly. Got to Marlborough, Eight Miles from [...], about Four. Preached in the Meeting House to a large Congregation. At first [Page 102] my Heart was dead. and I had but little Freedom; but before I had finished, the Word came with such a Demonstration of the Spirit, that great Numbers were very much melted down. When I came into the Meeting-House. I turned about, and to my Surprize found Governor Bel­cher there. He was affected; and tho' it rained and he was much advanced in Years, yet he went in Company with us as far as Worcester, Fifteen Miles from Marlborough, whither we got about Eight at Night: Here we were kindly entertained at the House of Col. C—r. We spent the Remainder of the Evening very a­greeably with the Governor, and after Prayer retired to Rest. Oh that I may ap­prove myself a Disciple of that Master, who, whilst tabernacling here on Earth, had not where to lay his Head!

Worcester and Leicester.

Wednesday, Oct. 15. Perceived the Go­vernor to be more affectionate than ever. After Morning Prayer, he took me by myself, kissed me, wept and exhorted me to go on in stirring up the Ministers: For says he, Reformation must begin at the House of GOD. As we were going to Meeting, says he, Mr. Whitefield, do [...] spare Rulers any more than Ministers, no, [Page 103] not the Chief of them. I preached in the open Air to some Thousands; the Word fell with Weight indeed; it carried all before it. After Sermon the Governor said to me, I pray GOD I may apply what has been said to my own Heart. Pray, Mr. Whitefield, that I may hunger and thirst after Righteousness. Dinner being ended, with Tears in his Eyes, he kissed and took his Leave of me. Oh that we may meet in Heaven! I have observed, that I have had greater Power than ordinary, when­ever the Governor has been at publick Worship: A Sign this, I hope, that the Most High intends effectually to bring him Home, and place him at his own Right Hand. Even so, LORD JESUS, Amen and Amen.. Was enabled much to re­joice in Spirit. Preached in the After­noon at Leicester, Six Miles from W [...]r­cester, with some, tho' not so much Power as in the Morning. Got to Brookfield by Night, and was upon the Mount indeed. My Soul was upon the Wing; and was excedingly enlarged; and I was en­abled, as it were, to take the Kingdom, of GOD by Force. Oh what precious Hours are those, when we are thus strengthned, as it were, to lay hold on GOD! Oh that we should ever cast ourselves down from these Frames! GOD be merciful to me a Sinner!

Leicester and Cold-Spring.

Thursday, Octob. 16. Rose in great De­jection of Soul, at the Consideration of Indwelling-Sin. Retired and wept before the LORD. Preached, not with extraor­dinary Freedom at first; but at last the Word ran, and melted many down. After Dinner, was much enlarged again, and strengthned to wrestle with GOD for a Revival of his Work in these Parts. Reached Cold-Spring 15 Miles from Lei­cester. Preached at the House of Mr. L—d, to three or four hundred People; but perceived little Moving except for a few Minutes. Spent this Evening with my dear Fellow-Travellers, was some­what cast down; but afterwards recovered Sweetness and Freedom of Soul by retiring and pouring out my Complaints and Pe­titions before the dear LORD JESUS. Oh the Sovereignty and distinguishing Free­ness of GOD's Grace! If it was not for the Consideration of that, my Soul must be continually pierced through with many Sorrows. LORD, for thy Mercies sake, suffer me never to let this Consideration go! Amen. LORD JESUS, Amen.

Hadley and Northampton.

Friday, Octob. 17. Set out as soon as it was Light, and reached Hadley, a Place where a great Work of GOD was begun some Years ago; but lately the People of GOD have complain'd of Deadness, and losing their first Love. However, as soon as I mentioned what GOD had done for their Souls formerly, it was like putting Fire to Tinder; the Remembrance of it quicken'd them and caused many of them to weep sorely. When I had taken a little Re­freshment, we crossed the Ferry to North­ampton, where no less than 300 Souls, as was supposed were savingly brought home to the dear LORD JESUS, about 5 of 6 Years ago. Their Pastor's Name is Ed­wards, Successor and Grandson to the great Stoddard, whose Memory will be always precious to my Soul; whose Books, enti­tled, A Guide to CHRIST, and Safety of appearing in CHRIST's Righteousness, I would earnestly recommend to all. Mr. Edwards is a solid excellent Christian; but at present weak in Body: I think I may say, I have not seen his Fellow in all New-England. When I came into his Pulpit I found my Heart drawn out to talk of scarce any think besides the Consolations and Priviledges of Saints, and the plentiful [Page 106] Effussion of the Holy Ghost in the Hearts of Believers: And when I came to remind them of their former Experiences, and how zealous and lively they were at that Time, both Minsters and People wept much, and the Holy Ghost enabled me to speak with a great deal of Power. In the Evening I gave a Word of Exhortation to several that came to Mr. Edwards's House. My Body was somewhat weak, my Appetite almost gone; but my LORD gave me Meat to eat which the World knows no­thing of. LORD, evermore give me this Bread! Amen and Amen.

Hadfield and Northampton.

Saturday, Octob. 18. At Mr. Edwards his Request, spoke to his little Children, who were much affected. Preached at Hadfield, five Miles from Northampton; but found myself streightned. Conversed profitably on the Way about the Things of GOD with dear Mr. Edwards, and preached about four in the Afternoon to his Congregation: I begun as it were with Fear and Trembling, feeling but little Power in the Morning; but GOD greatly assisted me, few dry Eyes seem'd to be in the Ass [...]mbly for a considerable Time. I had an affecting Prospect of the Glories of the upper World, and was enabled to speak of them [Page 107] feelingly to others: I believe, many were filled as with New-Wine; it seemed as if a Time of Refreshing was come from the Presence of the LORD. Even so come LORD JESUS, come quickly. Amen and Amen.

NORTHAMPTON.

Sunday, Octob. 19. Felt wonderful Sa­tisfaction in being at the House of Mr: Edwards. He is a Son himself, and hath also a Daughter of Abraham for his Wife. A sweeter Couple I have not yet seen. Their Children were dressed not in Silks and Sattins, but plain, as becomes the Children of those who in all Things ought to be Examples of Christian Simplicity. She is a Woman adorn'd with a meek and quiet Spirit, and talk'd so feelingly and solidly of the Things of GOD, and seem'd to be such a Help-meet for her Husband, that she caused me to renew those Prayers which for some Months I have put up to GOD, that He would be pleased to send me a Daughter of Abraham to be my Wife. I find, upon many Accounts, it is my Duty to marry. LORD, I desire to have no Choice of my own: Thou knowest my Circumstances: Thou knowest I desire to marry only in and for thee: Thou didst chuse a Rebecca for Isaac; chuse one for me, to be a [Page 108] Help-mete for me, in Managing that great Houshold committed to my Charge! LORD, hear me: LORD, let my cry come unto Thee. Preached this Morning, and perceived the Melting to begin sooner and rise higher than before. Dear Mr. Edwards wept al­most during the whole Time of Exercise. The People were equally, if not more af­fected, and my own Soul was much lifted up towards GOD. In the Afternoon the Power encreased yet more and more. Our LORD seem'd to keep the good Wine till the last. I have not seen such a gracious Melting since my Arrival. My Soul was much knit to the dear People of GOD, and tho' I had not Time to converse with them about their Experiences, yet one might see they were for the most part a gracious and tender People; and tho' their former Fire might be greatly abated, yet it i [...]diately appeared when stirred up. [...] my Soul might be refreshed with the [...] that Northampton People have [...] their first Love, that the LORD has revi [...]d his Work in their Souls, and [...] them to return and do their first [...]!

Westfield and Springfield.

Monday, Octob. 20. Left Northampton in the Evening, Rode very pleasantly 16 [Page 109] Miles to Westfield. Conversed with a poor Woman on her sick Bed, who gave me an Account of some Discoveries she had of our LORD's redeeming Love. Met with a little Book written by Dr. Cotton Mather, entituled, The Ornaments of the Daughters of Zion, which I would recom­mend to all, especially the Boston Ladies. Preached in the Morning to a considerable Congregation, and with considerable Pow­er at the [...]atter End. Hasted to Springfield about ten Miles from Westfield, Crossed a Ferry. Preached to a large Auditory, and then returned and preached in the Evening by Candle-Light to those who could not get over the Ferry by Reason of the Wind. The Meeting-House was full. GOD's Power was with me both Times, especially at the last. My Soul was much carried out in Prayer, and the LORD so strengthen'd me in the inner Man, that I could have preach'd another Sermon after I had done. A little after I left Spring-fields, my Horse coming over a Bridge threw me over his Head, directly upon my Nose: The Fall stunned me for a while. My Mouth was full of Dust. I bled a little; but, falling upon soft Sand, got not much Damage. After I recovered my self and mounted my Horse, GOD so fil­led me with a Sense of his sovereign, dis­tinguishing [Page 110] Love, and my own Unworthi­ness, that my Eyes gushed out with Tears; but they were all Tears of Love. Oh how did I want to sink before the high and lofty One that inhabiteth Eternity. I felt myself less than nothing, and yet knew that my JESUS was my ALL in ALL. The Divine Presence was strong upon me all the Evening. We stop'd at a Friend's House about four Miles from Springfield. Took proper Refreshment, and went to Rest, desiring not to be unmindful of the peculiar Favours conferred upon me the Night past. LORD, they are noted in thy Book, Oh let them be also written upon the Tables of my Heart!

Suffield and Winsdor.

Tuesday, Octob. 21. Set out for Suffield about eight Miles from the [...]lace where I lay: Reach'd there, and preached about eleven to several Thousands of People. Met with a Minister on the Way, who said it was not absolutely necessary for a Gospel Minister that he should be conver­ted. I insisted much in my Discourse up­on the Doctrine of the New-Birth, and also the Necessity of a Minister's being con­verted, before he could preach CHRIST aright. The Word came with great Power, and a great Impression was made [Page 111] upon the People in all Parts of the Assem­bly. Many Ministers were present. I did not spare them. Most of them thanked me for my plain Dealing; but one was offended, and so would more of his Stamp if I was to continue longer in New-Eng­land: For unconverted Ministers are the Bane of the Christian Church: And tho' I honour the Memory of that great and good Man Mr. Stoddard, yet I think he is much to be blamed for endeavouring to prove that unconverted Men might be ad­mitted into the Ministry. How he has handled the Controversy I know not. I think, no solid Arguments can be brought to defend such a Cause: But the best of Men are permitted to err, that we may know they were but Men. A Sermon lately published by Mr. Gilbert Tennent, entitled, The Danger of an unconverted Ministry, I think unanswerable. As I was Riding to Windsor, after Dinner, an old Man came up to me, saying, He knew that what I had preached in the Morning was true; I have felt it, says he: I was under the Spirit of Bondage 20 Years, and have received the Spirit of Adoption 23 Years. Another came, giving me an Ac­count of his Experiences; and the People of GOD seem'd much revived at Windsor: Where, I am informed, a true converted [Page 112] Ma [...] is the Minister. I preach'd in the Afternoon, and with such Freedom, that a young Minister, who had heard me se­veral Times, told me, I had kept the good Wine until now. As soon as Ser­mon was over, I rode about a Mile, cros­sed a broad Ferry, walked about a Mile and a half, and preached to a thronged Congregation, belonging to old Mr. Ed­wards, Father to Mr. Edwards of North­ampton, and, I believe, a true Disciple of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. My Body being something weak, I did not speak with that Strength as last Night, neither was I so much assisted: But it is the LORD. He knows best when to dispense, and when to suspend his Aids. After Exercise I supped at the House of old Mr. Edwards: His Wife, I believe, was as aged as him­self, and, if she was converted, and I know nothing to the contrary, I fancied I was sitting in the House of a Zachary and Eli­zabeth. Indeed I felt great Satisfaction in my own Soul; and parted from him and his Son (who came with me so far) with some inward Regret. But, blessed be GOD, we shall meet again in Eternity. LORD, grant I may always comfort myself with this Thought!

Hartford and Withersfield.

Wednesday, Oct. 22. Reached Hartford, Seven Miles from Windsor, about Ten last Night. Preached to many Thousands, and with much Freedom and Power, in the Morning; and to about the same Number at Withersfield, Three Miles from Hartford▪ in the Afternoon. Here my Soul was refreshed by the Coming of Mr. Wheelock and Pomeroy, two young faithful and zealous Ministers of JESUS CHRIST. The latter, in a Letter to Mr. Edwards, writes thus, Lebanon.

[Page 114]This Morning I intended to go and preach at both their Places, as also at Plymouth, Rhode-Island, &c. but GOD shewed me this Day it was inconsistent with my other Business upon many Ac­counts: And therefore, after Prayer and consulting with my Friends, I resolved to go directly to New-York. Accordingly at Night, after writing a few Letters, I rode to Middletown, Ten Miles from Withers­field, and was entertained at the House of Mr. Russel, the Minister of the Place, and, I think, an Isralite indeed, and one who has been long mourning over the Deadness of Professors. Oh that all Mi­nisters were like-minded!

Middletown and Wallingford.

Thursday, Oct. 23. Was much pleased with the Simplicity of my Host, and the Order wherein his Children attended on Family Devotions. Preach'd to about 4000 People (great Numbers of which were considerably affected.) About Ele­ven o'Clock preached again in the After­noon, at Wallingford, Fourteen Miles from Middletown, and then rode on to New-Haven, Fourteen Miles further, were I was affectionately received by Mr. Pier­pont, Brother to Mr. Edwards of Nor­thampton. As I came along I found won­derful [Page 115] Freedom in my Soul, for declining to go so long a Circuit as was proposed. I conversed profitably with Mr. Lamb, a godly, zealous Minister of Guilford; and when I came to New-Haven, I felt GOD strengthen'd my inner Man. I wrestled in Prayer in Company with my dear Fel­low-Travellers, and am persuaded the LORD did not let us go without a Bles­sing. Oh that we may all sit down in the Kingdom of Heaven!

NEW-HAVEN.

Friday, Oct. 24. Was refreshed with the Sight of dear Mr. Noble, of New-York, who also brought me Letters from Georgia. Blessed be GOD, the Orphan-House Af­fairs go on prosperously! The LORD is with my dear Family of a Truth. Declined preaching in the Morning because it was wet, the People had no Notice of my Coming, and I had much private Business upon my Hands. Perceived my Health of Body-grow better and better. Preach­ed in the Afternoon with Power towards the latter End of the Sermon, and obser­ved some deeply affected. It being the Time in which the Assembly sat, the Go­vernor, Council and the Gentlemen of the Lower House, were present. After Sermon, two young Ministers, who seem'd [Page 116] to have some Experience of divine Things, came to converse with me; and in the Evening I expounded at my Lodg­ing to a Room full of People. The Power of the LORD was upon me, I spoke with much Weight aud Freedom, and had sweet Fellowship with my dear Companions. Oh who would but travel for CHRIST!

Saturday, Oct. 25. Was again refreshed this Morning by the Sight of Mr. Jede­diah Mills, a dear Man of GOD, Minis­ter of Ripton, near Stratford. He wrote to me some time ago. I felt his Letter, and now also felt the Man. My Soul was much united to him. I could not but think, GOD would do great Things by his Hands. He has had a remarkable Work in his Parish some time ago, and talked like one that was no Novice in di­vine Things. With him I dined at Mr. Clap's, Rector of New-Haven College, about one third as big as that at Cambridge. It has one Rector, three Tutors and about 100 Students. But I hear of no remark­able Concern amongst them on Account of Religion. I preached twice, and, I believe, much to the Consolation of GOD's People; many of which, as I have heard, live in New-Haven and the Countries round about. There were sweet Melt­ings [Page 117] discernable both Times. I spoke very closely to the Students, and shew­ed the dreadful Inconveniency of an unconverted Ministry. Dear Mr. Mills and another Minister came to my Lodg­ings after Sermon: They rejoiced in Spi­rit; and Mr. Mills, when he took his Leave, told me of one Minister in parti­cular, who had been wrought upon before, but now was gone Home as full as he could hold. O that GOD may quicken Ministers! Oh that the LORD may make them a flaming Fire! Come LORD JE­SUS, come quickly. Amen and Amen.

Sunday, Oct. 26. Preached both Morn­ing and Evening to much larger Congre­gations than before, and in the Afternoon observed an especial Presence of GOD in the Assembly. Many, I believe, were comforted and quicken'd by the Holy. Ghost. The People of GOD sent me Word that they were much revived; and one came and told me, these Words were lately pressed upon her Heart, The Winter is gone, the Spring is at Hand, the Voice of the Turtle is heard in the Land. Indeed I believe this will be an acceptable Year of the LORD. Before Evening Service, the following Note was put into my Hands, by one who came to me a Day or two ago, some Miles off, under great Dis­tress, [Page 118] and tho' weak in Body could not but follow after me. One self-righteous Pharisee resting in Duties, who hath a ra­tional Belief of his damned Estate, and that he hath never felt the Pangs of the New-Birth, desires Prayers to your GOD, that hath said, “Ye must be born again,” After Sermon waited on the Governor, an aged, grave old Gentleman, well reported of by good Men. I observed him to be much affected under the Word. When I came in, he said, I am glad to see you, and heartily glad to hear you. But his Heart was so full, that he could not speak much. The T [...]ars trickled down his aged Cheeks like Drops of Rain, He was thankful to GOD, he said, for such Refreshings in the Way to our Rest. Food does us good, added he, when we eat it with an Appetite. And in­deed I believe, he had fed upon the Word. The LORD support him when his Strength [...]aileth, and bring his grey Hairs with Com­fort to the Grave! In the Evening I ex­pounded at my Lodging to a great Num­ber of People, and collected near Forty Pounds for the Orphans. My Soul was much refreshed, to hear how the Children of GOD were revived by the Word preached: And nothing confirms me more, that I have been taught of GOD and preach the Truth as it is in JESUS, [Page 119] than to find our LORD's dear and old Disciples feeling the Power of the Word wherever I go, and saying, it agrees with their Experiences. My Sheep hear my Voice, says our dear Redeemer, a Stranger will they not hear. About Eight at Night. we left New-Haven. The Moon shone bright, and after we had rode three Miles, we called at a House. which, as Mr. Wheelock, a faithful Minister of JESUS CHRIST, told me before, was full of GOD. I think they tell me the Mother and Three Daughters were converted Per­sons. As soon as I came into the House the Spirit of the LORD came upon me. GOD gave me to wrestle with him, and and my Friends said, at departing, they were never in such a House before. Oh it was a sweet Time indeed [...] GOD made his Power to be felt and known. After I had given a Word of Exhortation, that they would adorn the Gospel of our LORD in all Things, we went forward on our Journey, and got to Milford, Ten Miles from New-Haven, about Ten a Clock at Night. The LORD's Name be [...]raised, from the rising up of the S [...]n to [...]he going down of the same . Amen and Amen.

Milford and Stratford.

Monday, Oct. 27. Preach'd this Morn­ing at Milford, and I think with as much Clearness, Freedom and Power as I have for a long Season. The Presence of GOD was much in the Assembly, which was large. Many Ministers were present, and they could not help glorifying GOD much on my Behalf. Dear Mr. Mills, who came again to meet me this Morn­ing, was much affected; and as I was riding out of Town, a godly Gentleman met me, and with Tears in his Eyes, at length out of the Abundance of his Heart, said, I never saw GOD's Presence in the Sanctuary on this wise before. I have ex­perienced the Words you spoke; but never heard them so well cleared up, nor felt them so powerfully set home upon my Soul. It has been a blessed Time to my Soul; or Words to that Effect. In the Afternoon I preached at Stra [...]ford, Four Miles from Milford, but was not so much assisted as in the Morning. Both Places, especially the latter, I found, were ill reported of, for their leaning too much towards Arminian Prin­ciples. O LORD, convince them of the Rottenness of such a Foundation, and bring them to know the Truth as it is in JESUS.

Fairfield and Norwalk.

Tuesday, Octob. 28. Got to Fairfield, Eight Miles from Stratford, about Ten last Night. The Weather was very cold, having snowed a great Part of the Afternoon, but the LORD brought us in Safety. Preached to a considerable large Congregation in the Morning, and found myself assisted very much in my Prayer after Sermon, I scarce knew how to leave off. In the Afternoon. at Norwalk, Twelve Miles from Fairfield, I was re­strain'd much both in Prayer and Preach­ing. It rained much, so that we had not a large Congregation. However, some few, I observed, were affected. I believe my LORD never lets me preach in vain. Grant this, O GOD, for thy own Name Sake.

Stanford and Rye.

Wednesday, Oct. 29. Came hither last Night in Safety, tho' it was ve [...]y [...] [...]nd rainy. Was visited with a great i [...] ­wa [...] ▪ Trial, so that I was pained t [...] the [...]. Was somewhat dejected [...]fore [...] [...] out of my Lodgings, and somewh [...]t [...] for a Text after I got up in [...]he [...] ▪ The LORD at length [...] one; but I looked for no Power [...] being very low by my last [Page 122] Night's Trial. Notwithstanding, before I had preached half an Hour, the blessed Spirit began to move on the Hearers Hearts in a very awful Manner; young, and especially many old People were sur­prizingly affected, so that I thought they would have cried out. At Dinner the Spirit of the LORD came upon me again, and enabled me to speak with such Vigour against sending unconverted Persons into the Ministry, that two Ministers with Tears in their Eyes, publickly confessed, they had laid Hands on young Men with­out so much as asking them, Whether they were born again of GOD, or not? After Dinner, finding my Heart much enlarged, I prayed, and with such Power, that most in the Room were put under Concern; and one old Minister was so deeply con­ [...]cted, that calling Mr. Noble and me [...], with great Difficulty (because of his [...]) he desired our prayers: For, [...], I have been a Scholar and have p [...]each'd the Doctrines of Grace for a long T [...]me, [...]t I believe I have never felt the Power of them in my own Soul. — Oh that all unconverted Ministers were [...] make the [...] Confession! I wa [...] [...] affected wi [...] his Ingenuity, and [...], by Prayer, earnestly [...] him to GOD, I took Horse, [...] [Page 123] exceedingly in Spirit, to see how our LORD was getting himself the Victory, in a Place where Mr. Davenport, a Na­tive of Stanford, a dear Minister of the blessed JESUS, had been slighted and de­spised. A Prophet is not without Honour, save in his own Country and his Father's House.

But here I think it proper to set up my Ebenezer, and before I enter into the Pro­vince of New-York, to give GOD Thanks for sending me into New England. I have now had an Opportunity of seeing the greatest and the most populous Parts of it; and take all together, it certainly, on many Accounts, exceeds all other Provin­ces in America, and for the Establishment of Religion, perhaps all other Parts of the World. Never, surely, was so large a Spot of Ground settled in such a Manner in so short a Space as a hundred Years. The Towns through Connecticut a [...]d Eastward towards York, in the Provi [...]e of the Massachusetts, near the River Side, are large and well peopled and exceeding pleasant to travel through; every five or t [...]n Miles you have a Meeting-House, and I believe, there is no such Thing as a Plu­ [...]st or Non-resident Minister in both P [...]inces: Many, nay, perhaps, most that preach, I fear, do not experimentally [Page 124] know CHRIST; yet I cannot see much worldly Advantage to tempt them to take upon them the sacred Function; few Country-Ministers, as I have been inform'd have sufficient allowed them in Money to maintain a Family. GOD has remarka­bly, in sundry Times, and after divers Manners, poured out his Spirit in several Parts of both Provinces; and it often re­fresh'd my Soul to hear of the Faith of the good Forefathers who first settled in these Parts. Notwithstanding they had their Fobles, surely they were a Set of righteous Men! They certainly followed our LORD's Rule, sought first the Kingdom of GOD and its Righteousness, and behold all other Things GOD added to them. Their Seed are now blessed in temporal Things especially, and notwithstanding the rising Generation seem to be settled on their Lees, yet, I believe, the LORD has left more than seven Thousand who have not bowed the Knee to Baal. The Ministers and People of Connecticut seem'd to be more simple and serious than those that live near Boston, especially in the Parts where I went. But, I think, [...]he Ministers Preaching, almost 1univer [...]all [...], by Notes, is a certain Mark they have, in a great Measure, lost the old [...] Preaching: For, tho' all are not to [...] [Page 125] condemned that use Notes, yet it is a sad Symptom of the Decay of vital Religion, when Reading Sermons becomes fashiona­ble where extempore Preaching did once almost universally prevail. When the Spirit of Prayer began to be lost, then Forms of Prayer were invented. And, I believe, the same Observation will hold good as to Preaching. As for the Universi­ties, I believe, it may be said, their Light is now become Darkness, Darkness that may be felt, and is complain'd of by the most godly Ministers. I pray GOD these Fountains may be purified, and send forth pure Streams to water the City of our GOD. The Church of England is at a very low Ebb; and, as far as I can find, had People kept their primitive Purity it would scarce have got Footing in New-England. I have many Evidences to prove that most of the Churches have been first set up by immoral Men, and such as would not submit to the Discipline of their Congregation [...] or were corrupt in the Faith: But I will say no more about the poor Church of England, most of her Sons, whether Ministers or People, I fear, hate to be reform'd. As for the Civil Govern­ment of New-England, it seems to be well regulated; and, I think, at opening all their Courts, either the Judge or Minister [Page 126] begins with Prayer. Family-Worship is, I believe, generally kept up. The Negroes, I think, are better used, in respect both to Soul and Body, than in any other Province that I have yet seen. In short, I like New-England exceeding well, and when a Spirit of Reformation revives, it certain­ly will prevail more than in other Places, because they are more simple in their Wor­ship, less corrupt in their Principles, and consequently more easily brought over to the Form of sound Words, into which so many of their pious Ancestors were de­liver'd. Send forth, O LORD, thy Light and thy Truth, and for thy infinite Mercies sake shew thou hast a peculiar Delight in these habitable Parts of the Earth. Amen. LORD JESUS, Amen.