History of Methodism. 137 



preaching of Byland, Stillingfleet, Talbot, Bagnall, 

 Mansfield, Hawes, Venn, and others, some of whom 

 were among the most distinguished ministers, and 

 ornaments of the English pulpit. With a taste thus 

 formed for spiritual things, and a mind open to any 

 good influences in the world around him, as soon as 

 he was told of the Methodists he felt a desire, kindred 

 to that of Mr. Fletcher, to know something more of 

 the strange religious sect whose zeal for God had given 

 them such notoriety, and went with a companion to the 

 neighboring town of Wednesbury to see and hear for 

 himself. Although the people had not assembled in 

 a church with tower, and bell, and organ, 



And storied windows, richly dight, 

 That cast a dim religious light, 



yet they worshiped at the very gate of heaven. Said he : 



I soon found that this was not the church, but it was better. The 

 people were so devout — men and women kneeling down, saving 

 amen. Now, behold, they were singing hymns — sweet sound ! Why, 

 strange to tell, the preacher had no prayer-book, and yet he prayed 

 wonderfully! What was yet more extraordinary, the man took his 

 text and had no sermon-book. Thought I, this is wonderful indeed! 

 It is certainly a strange way, but the best wav» H- I talked about 

 confidence and assurance, of which all my flights and hopes fell 

 short. I had no deep convictions, nor had I committed any deep 

 known sins. At one sermon, some time after, my companion was 

 powerfully wrought on. I was exceedingly grieved that I could not 

 weep like him; yet I knew myself to be in a state of unbelief. On 

 a certain time when we were praying in my father's bam, I believe 

 the Lord pardoned my sins and justified my soul; but my compan- 

 ion reasoned me out of this belief, saying, " Mr. Mather said a be- 

 liever was as happy as if he was in heaven." I thought I was not 

 as happy as I would be there, and gave up my confidence, and that 

 for months. Yet I was happy; free from gu'lt and fear, an I had 

 power over sin, and felt great inward joy. Some time after I had 

 obtained a clear witness of ray acceptance with God, the Lord show .J 



