John Wesley in the Midlands 1748-1789

John Wesley, the founder with his brother Charles, of the religious movement, Methodism, visited Ireland on twenty one separate occasions between 1747 and 1789 and has left four volumes of journals to tell the tale. The journals are mainly spiritual in character but nevertheless contain much that is useful about Irish life, the towns, estates and even the weather. The late T. W. Freeman, in his John Wesley in Ireland (Irish Geography, vol. 8, 1975), pages 86 - 96 used the Everyman edition The Journals of the Rev. John Wesley, A.M., edited by the Rev. F. W. Macdonald. I have used the same edition for this survey.

Freeman noted that Wesley generally visited Ireland in the late Spring and stayed for 2 or 3 months; making what was in those days, the perilous journey across the Irish Sea. Wesley was born in 1703 and died in 1795 and was the fifteenth child of Samuel Wesley. Soon after being ordained, he went to Georgia (1735) On the boat, he met a party of German Moravians and after discussions began to have a more earnest view of the importance of evangelical doctrine. Wesley's mission to Georgia was not successful and he returned to England in 1738. His 'conversion' is dated to this time and following the example of George Whitefield (1714 - 70), the originator of Methodism, he began his open-air preaching of which he did much across his 'parish' which was effectively England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. The DNB noted that his journal of missionary travel would serve as a guide book to the British Isles. To the last he continued to travel and is said to have preached 40,000 sermons and travelled 250,000 miles.

Wesley made his first trip to Ireland in 1747 and stayed for a short time. He returned again in 1748 arriving via Holyhead to Blackrock. 'I began preaching at five in the morning an unheard of thing in Ireland'. The membership of the Society was near 400 as much as in 1747. After preaching at Marlborough Street, and Ship Street in Dublin he rode directly to Daingean, then called to Philipstown, the shire town of the county but already in a state of decay. He was to spend almost a month in the Midlands on his first extended stay in the country. He notes in the Journal:
Philipstown, Wednesday, 30th March 1748: I rode to Philip's Town, the shire-town of the King's County. I was obliged to go into the street, which was soon filled with those who flocked from every side: to whom I declared "Jesus Christ, our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption".

Thurs. 31st: One would have dissuaded me from preaching at five, being sure none would rise so soon. But I kept my hour, and had a large and serious congregation. After preaching I spoke severally to those of the Society, of whom forty were troopers. At noon I preached to (I think) the largest congregation I had seen since I came from Builth. God did then make a clear offer of eternal life to all the inhabitants of Philip's Town. But how few retained these good impressions one week, or would effectually "come to Him, that they might have life"?

In the evening I preached at Tullamore to most of the inhabitants of the town. Abundance of them came again at five in the morning. But he that endureth to the end shall be saved.

Fri. April 1st: I preached at Clara, to a vast number of well-behaved people; although some of them came in their coaches, and were (I was informed) of the best quality in the country. How few of these would have returned empty, if they had heard the word of God, not out of curiosity merely, but from a real desire to know and do his will?

In the evening I preached at Temple-Macqueteer, and again at five in the morning. About one (Saturday, 2d, April 1748) we came to Moat, the pleasantest town I have yet seen in Ireland. Here I preached to a handful of serious people, and then hastened on to Athlone. At six I preached from the window of an unfinished house opposite to the Market-House, (which would not have contained one half of the congregation,) on, "Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ." I scarce ever saw a better behaved, or more attentive congregation. Indeed so civil a people as the Irish in general, I never saw either in Europe or America.

Sun. 3rd April 1748: I preached at five to, at least three hundred healers. I walked from thence to see a poor woman that was sick, about a mile from the town: about an hundred and fifty people ran after me. After I had prayed with the sick person, being unwilling so many people should go empty away, I chose a smooth, grassy place near the road, where we all kneeled down to prayer, after which we sung a psalm, and I gave them a short exhortation. At eleven, we went to church and heard a plain, useful sermon. At two, I preached on the Connaught side of the bridge, where there are only (they informed me) five or six families of Protestants. Such a company of people (many said had never before been seen together at Athlone; many coming from all the country round, and (for the present) receiving the word with joy. I preached again at six in the same place, and to nearly the same (only a little larger) congregation: the greater part whereof (notwithstanding the prohibition of their Priests) I afterward found were Papists.

Mon. 4. I preached once more at five; and a great part of the congregation was in tears. Indeed almost all the town appeared to be moved,, full of goodwill and desires of salvation. But the waters spread too wide to be deep. I found not one under any strong conviction, much less had any one attained the knowledge of salvation, in hearing above thirty sermons. So that as yet no judgement could be formed of the future work of God in this place. I took horse at ten, and about twelve preached at Moat to all the larger congregation than before. I could not but observe the zeal of these young disciples; the were vehemently angry at a man's throwing a cabbage-stalk. Let them keep their courage till they see such a sight as that at Walsal, or Shepton.

In the evening I preached at Tyrrell's Pass, and found great enlargement of heart. But when the Society met, I was quite exhausted; so that I dismissed them, after a short exhortation.

Tues. 5, April 1748. Our room was filled at five. After preaching I examined the Classes. I found a surprising openness among them. When I asked one in particular, "How he had lived in time past? " he spread abroad his hands, and said, with many tears, "hear I stand, a grey-headed monster of all manner of wickedness;" which I verily believe, had it been desired, he would have explained before them all. Much in the same manner spoke one who came from Connaught, but with huge affliction and dismay: we determined to wrestle with God in her behalf, which we did for above and hour: and he heard the prayer, so that her soul was filled with joy unspeakable. Mr. Jonathan Handy, greatly sorrowing before, was also now enabled to rejoice in God; and four other persons were cut to the heart, and cried aloud to Him that is mighty to save Wes. 6, April 1748.

I baptised seven persons educated among the Quakers. In the afternoon we rode to Philip's Town, but the scene was changed. The curiosity of the people was satisfied, and few of them cared to hear any more. As soon as I mounted my horse, he began to snort and run backward without any visible cause. One whipped him behind, and I before, but it profited nothing: he leaped to an fro, from side to side, till he came over against a gateway, into which he ran backward, and tumbled head over heels. I rose unhurt. He then went on quietly.

RICH AND POOR PRAY TOGETHER

At Tullamore, in the evening, well nigh all the town, rich and poor, were gathered together. I used great plainness of speech in applying those words: "All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." The next day, being Good Friday, I preached at five, to a large and serious congregation. Between one and two, I preached at Clara, and then rode to Athlone. I preached at six, on, "Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and after that to enter into his glory?" So general a drawing I never knew among any people, so that as yet none even seems to oppose the truth.

Sat.9, April 1748 I preached in Connaught, a few miles from Athlone. Many heard; but I doubt felt nothing. The Shannon comes within a mile of the house where I preached. I think there is not such another river in Europe: it is here ten or twelve miles over, though scarce thirty miles from its fountain-head. There are many islands in it, once well inhabited, but now mostly desolate. In almost every one is the ruins of a church: in one, the remains of no less than seven. I fear God hath still a controversy with this land, because it is defiled with blood.

April 10, 1748. Easter-day. Never was such a congregation seen before at the Sacrament in Athlone. I preached at three. Abundance of papists flocked to hear; so that the Priest, seeing his command did not avail, came in person at six, and drove them away before him like a flock of sheep.

Mon. 11, April 1748. I preached at five the terrors of the Lord, in the strongest manner I was able. But still they who are ready to eat up every word, do not appear to digest any part of it.

In the evening there appeared more emotion in the congregation than ever I had seen before. But it was in a manner I never saw: not in one here and there, but in all. Perhaps God is working here in a way we have not known, going on with a slow and even motion through the whole body of the people, that they may all remember themselves and be turned unto the Lord.

Tues. 12, April 1748. I rode to Clara, where I was quickly informed, that there was to begin in an hour's time a famous cock-fight, to which almost all the country was coming from every side. Hoping to engage some part of them in a better employ, I began preaching in the street as soon as possible. One or two hundred stopped, and listened awhile, and pulled off their hats, and forgot their division.

The congregation at Tullamore in the evening was larger than ever before, and deep attention sat on every face. Toward the latter end of the sermon, there began a violent storm of hail. I desired the people to cover their heads, but the greater part of them would not; nor did any one go away till I concluded my discourse.

Wednesday 13th April 1748: I preached in the evening at Tyrrel's Pass. The congregation here also was larger than ever; and the word of God seemed to take deeper root here than in any other part of this country.

Thursday 14th April 1748: The house was full at five. In the evening many of the neighbouring gentlemen were present, but none mocked. That is not the custom here; all attend to what is spoken in the name of God: they do not understand the making sport with sacred things; so that whether they approve or no, they behave with seriousness.

Friday 15th April 1748:. I rode to Edinderry. Abundance of people were quickly gathered together. Having been disturbed in the night by Mr. Swindells, who lay with me and had a kind of apoplectic fit, I was not at all well about noon, when I began to preach in a large walk, on one side of the town, and the sun shone hot upon my head, which had been aching all the day: but I forgot this before I had spoken long, and when I had finished my discourse, I left all my weariness and pain behind, and rode on in perfect health to Dublin.

The first trip to the Midlands lasted from 30th March 1748, to 15th April or just two weeks. After a stay of some two weeks in Dublin he was back again in the Midlands riding from Dublin via Kinnegad for a stay from 29th April to 14th May 1748.

Thursday, April 28th 1748: Between one and two we came to Kinnegad. My strength was now pretty well exhausted; so that when we mounted again, after resting an hour, it was as much as I could do to sit my horse. We had near eleven Irish (measured) miles to ride, which are equal to fourteen English. I got over them pretty well in three hours, and by six reached Tyrrel's Pass.

At seven I recovered my strength, so as to preach and meet the Society, which began now to be at a stand, with regard to number, but not with regard to the grace of God.

Friday, 29th April 1748: I rode to Temple-Macqueteer, and thence toward Athlone. We came at least an hour before we were expected. Nevertheless we were met by many of our brethren. The first I saw, about two miles from the town, were a dozen little boys running with all their might, some bare-headed, some bare-footed and bare-legged: so they had their desire of speaking to me first the others being still behind.

Saturday, 30th April 1748: I found the roaring lion began to shake himself here also. Some Papists and two to three good Protestant families were cordially joined together, to oppose the work of God; but they durst not yet do it openly, the steam running so strong against them.

Sunday, May 1st 1748: Great part of the town was present at five, and, I found, began to feel what was spoken. Yet still the impression is not make, as in other places, on one here and there only, but the main body of the hearers seem to go on together with an even pace.

About two I preached on the Connnaught side of the bridge, to an attentive multitude both of Protestants and Papists: whose Priest, perceiving he profited nothing, at five came himself. I preached on "Is there no balm in Gilead?" and could not help applying to the Papists in particular. I am satisfied many of them were almost persuaded to give themselves up to the great Physician of souls.

Tuesday, 3rd May 1748: I rode to Birr, twenty miles from Athlone; and , the key of the Sessions-House not being to be found, declared " The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ" in the street, to a dull, rude, senseless multitude. Many laughed the greater part of the time. Some went away just in the middle of a sentence. And yet when one cried our, (a Carmelite friar, clerk to the Priest,) "You lie, you lie;" the zealous Protestants cried out, "Knock him down." And it was no sooner said than done. I saw some bustle, but knew not what was the matter, till the whole was over.

In the evening we rode to Balliboy. There being no house that could contain the congregation, I preached here also in the street. I was afraid, in a new place, there would be but few in the morning; but there was a considerable number, and such a blessing as I had scarce found since I landed in Ireland.

Wednesday, 4th May 1748: I rode to Clara, and preached to a small company, who were not afraid of a stormy day. I spent half and hour after sermon with a few serious people, and them rode to Tullamore.

One who looks on the common Irish cabins, might imagine Saturn still reigned here: -

". . . . . . . . . . . Cum frigida parvas Praeberet spelunca domos; ignemque laremque Et pecus et dominos communi clauderet umbra."

Communi umbr indeed; for no light can come into the earth or straw-built cavern, on the master and his cattle, but at one hole, which is both window, chimney, and door.

Thursday, 5th May 1748: Though my flux [diarrhoea] continually increased, (which was caused by my eating a bad egg at Birr,) yet I was unwilling to break to break my word, and so made shift to ride in the afternoon to Mountmelick. I had not seem such a congregation before,since I set out from Dublin; and the greater part did not stand like stocks and stones, but seemed to understand what I spake,of worshipping God "in spirit and in truth."

Friday, 6th May 1748: More people came at five than I had seen at that hour in any part of Ireland; and I found my heart so moved towards them, that in spite of weakness and pain, I enforced, for more than an hour, those solemn words: "The Kingdom of God is at hand; repent ye, and believe the Gospel."

Hence I rode to Philip's Town, [Daingean] a poor, dry, barren place. I pray God the first may not be last. Saturday, 7th May 1748: I set out in the morning, and after resting two hours at Tullamore, and two or three more at Moat, I rode on to Athlone, and preached at six, on, "He healeth them that are broken in heart." I felt no weariness or pain till I had done speaking, but them found I could not meet the Society, being ill able to walk the length of the room; but God gave me refreshing sleep.

Sunday, 8th May 1748: I preached at five, though I could not well stand. I then set out for Aghrim [Aughrim], in the county of Galway, thirteen Connaught, i.e. Yorkshire, miles from Athlone. The morning prayers, so called, began about twelve; ;after which we had a warm sermon against enthusiasts. I could not have come at a better time; for I began immediately after, and all that were in the church, high and low, rich and poor, stopped to hear me. In explaining the inward kingdom of God, I had a fair occasion to consider what we had just heard; and God renewed my strength, and, I trust, applied his word to the hears of most of the hearers.

Mr. S., a neighbouring Justice of Peace, as soon as I had done, desired me to dine with him; after dinner I hastened back to Athlone, and began preaching about six: five Clergymen were of the audience, and abundance of Romanists: such an opportunity I never had before in these parts.

Athlone

Monday, 9th May 1748: Having not had an hour's sound sleep from the time I lay down till I rose, I was in doubt whether I could preach or not; however, I went to the Marketplace, as usual, and found no want of strength, till I had fully declared " the redemption that is in Jesus Christ." I had designed afterwards to settle the Society thorughly, but I was not able to sit up so long.

Many advised me not to go out at night, the wind being extremely cold and blustering; but I could in no wise consent to spare myself at such a time as this. I preached on, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden;" and I found myself at least as well when I had done as I was before I begun.

Tuesday, 10th May 1748: With much difficulty I broke away from this immeasurably - loving people , and not so soon as I imagined neither; for when we drew near to the turnpike, about a mile from the town , a multitude waited for us at the top of the hill. They fell back on each side, to make us way, and then joined and closed us in : after singing two or three verses, I put forward, when on a sudden I was a little surprised, by such a cry of men , women, and children, as I never heard before. Yet a little while, and we shall meet, to part no more; and sorrow and sighing shall flee away for ever.

Instead of going straight to Tullamore, I could not be easy without going round by Coolylough [near Kilbeggan]: I knew not why; for I did not know then that Mr. Handy's wife who had been brought to bed a few day's, had an earnest desire to see me once more before I left the kingdom. She could not avoid praying for it, though her sister checked her again and again, telling her, "It could not be." Before the debate was concluded, I came in : so they wondered and praised God .

In the evening I preached at Tullamore, and at five in the morning; I was then glad to lie down. In the afternoon, Wednesday the 11th, I rode once more to Mountmelick. The congregation , both in the evening and the next morning , was larger than before.

After preaching, a grey-headed man came to me, bitterly lamenting that he had lived many years without knowing that he had need of a physician. Immediately came another, who had been a harmless man as any in the town; he would have spoke, but could not . I then spoke to him; but not two minutes before he sunk to the ground : so I perceived I had not spent my little strength here, "as one that beateth the air.

After this his second trip to the Midlands Wesley left for Dublin and directly back to Wales. It seems clear that the roots of the Society in Ireland were in the towns and villages of Offaly and Westmeath. The Reverend Dudley Cooney in his unpublished A History of Methodism in Tullamore, a typescript of sixteen pages completed c. 1988 states that:
'Most of the early Methodists belonged to the lower classes of society, but some of the gentry were influenced, and among those was a lady whose name has been obscured in Methodist history behind the cryptonym "Mrs. M.". She had been a Miss Bertrand, and her sister Ruth was married to a young land owner from County Westmeath called Samuel Handy.

The first of the Handy family to come to Ireland did so as a lieutenant in the Cromwellian army. After the campaign he chose to remain in Ireland, and his family acquired a small estate at Coolalough and Bracca in the parish of Ardnurcher, not far from the present village of Horseleap. At the time of Wesley's visit to Dublin Samuel Handy, the lieutenant's grandson, was forty-three years of age. He was alarmed by the news that his sister was associating with the Methodists, for both religious and social reasons, and hurried to Dublin to discourage her. She was a woman of some force of character, and persuaded her brother-in-law not to condemn the Methodists unheard. He agreed to attend a Methodist meeting at Dolphin's Barn on the outskirts of Dublin, where the preacher on that occasion was a young Yorkshireman, Paul Greenwood from Haworth. Mrs. M. invited Greenwood to breakfast on the following morning and sermon and discussion persuaded Samuel Handy. He invited Greenwood and his colleagues to visit Coolalough.

Using the Handy house at Coolalough as their base the Methodist preachers within a year had established societies at Templemacateer, Tyrrellspass, Philipstown, Moate, Athlone and Tullamore. Before returning to England in 1748 Charles Wesley paid his only visit to Coolalough. Between March and May of 1748 John Wesley was back in Ireland, and toured the new societies in the midlands. When he came for the first time to Coolalough in May Ruth Handy was still in bed after the birth of a baby. The fate of this baby is not recorded, but in 1751 she had a son, who eventually succeeded his father at Coolalough. This child was called Samuel Wesley, his names honouring his father and the evangelist.'

Of the Handy family a short history by Hy Fitzgerald Reynolds, was published in Notes and Queries (21st March 1942, pages 160 - 162). Cooney goes on to state that the British Conference of the Society in the same year (1748) divided Ireland into four "circuits" based in Dublin, Tullamore, Tyrrellspass and Athlone - a circuit being a group of Methodist Societies under the care of one or more Methodist preachers. He further states that these four circuits do not appear to have functioned as such and when fifteen years later the county was divided into seven circuits, Tullamore was included in the Athlone circuit.

1749

John Wesley was back in Ireland in 1749 for his third visit to the country and the second to the Midlands. He arrived at Holyhead on Wednesday, 12th April 1749 only to find at first no ships available and then no wind. He eventually boarded ship on 15th April but got caught in a storm. In his diary he noted:
Saturday, 15th April 1749: We went on board at six, the wind then standing due east. But no sooner were we out of the harbour, than it turned south-west and blew a storm. Yet we made forward, and about one o'clock came within two or three leagues of land. The wind then wholly failed; a calm suddenly following a storm, produced such a motion as I never felt before. But it was not long before the wind sprung up west, which obliged us to stand away for the Skerries. When we wanted a league of shore it fell calm again, so that there we rolled about till past sunset. But in the night we got back into Dublin-Bay, and landed soon after three at Dunlary [Dun Laoghaire], about seven English miles from the city. Leaving William Tucker to follow me in a chaise, I walked straight away, and came to Skinner's Alley, a little before the time of preaching.....

Wesley noted that membership of the Society had increased from 400 to 449 over the year 1748 - 49. Suffering the effects of a cold and a swelling in his cheek he applied boiled nettles to take away the pain and warm treacle to reduce the swelling. Two weeks after his arrival he rode to Tyrellspass and later to Edenderry, Mountmellick, Tullamore and Clara between the 29th April and the 7th May. After a stay in Aughrim and later he was in Birr (11th May 1749):

Saturday, 29th April 1749: I rode to Tyrrel's Pass and preached in the evening, and on Sunday morning and evening.

Monday, 1st May 1749: I preached at five in the evening at Edinderry, to an exceedingly well-behaved congregation. I preached at five in the morning, (many Quakers being present,) on "Ye shall be all taught of God." In the evening I preached at Mountmelick.

Wednesday, 3rd May 1749: I preached at Tullamore.

Thursday, 4th May 1749: At Clara about noon, and in the evening at Athlone. I never saw so large a congregation here on a week-day before; among whom were many of the soldiers, (the remains of the regiment wherein John Nelson was,) and seven or eight of the officers. They all behaved well, and listened with deep attention.

This day, and the next, I endeavoured to see all who were weary and faint in their minds. Most of them, I found, had not been used with sufficient tenderness. Who is there that sufficiently weighs the advice of Kempis? "Noli duriter agere cum tentato;" 'Deal not harshly with one that is tempted.'

Sunday, 7th May 1749: I preached (as usual) at five and at three, with the spirit of convincing speech. The Rector preached in the afternoon (though it is called the morning service,) a close useful Sermon, on the fear of God. At five I had great numbers of the poor Papists, (as well as Protestants,) maugre all the labour of their Priests. I called aloud, "Ho! Every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters; and he that hath no money!" Strange news to them, one of whom had declared frankly, but a few days before, "I would fain be with you, but I dare not: for now I have all my sins forgiven for four shillings a year; and this could not be in your church."

We had a triumphant hour when the Society met. Several captives were set at liberty: one of these was Mr. Joseph Ch-----. He had been an eminent man many years for cursing, swearing, drinking, and all kinds of fashionable wickedness. On Monday last he had rode fifteen miles to Tyrrel's Pass, and came thither before five in the morning. He was immediately convinced, and followed me in from the preaching. I was then examining a Class. The words cut him to the heart. He came after me to Athlone, (when he had settled some temporal business,) having his eyes continually filled with tears, and being scarce able either to eat, drink or sleep. But God now wiped away the tears from his eyes; and he returned to his house, to declare what things God had wrought.

Monday, 8th May 1749: I rode to Aghrim [Aughrim], where the face of things was quite changed since the time I was there before. Here was now a serious congregation from all the country round. I preached about seven, and afterwards explained the nature and use of a Society. The first who desired to join therein was Mr. S., his wife, and daughter.

Tuesday, 9th May 1749: I rode to Ahaskra, six miles south, at the desire of Mr. G., the Rector. As the Papists durst not come into the church, I preached before Mr. Glass's door. I should not have imagined this was the first time of their hearing this preaching, so fixed and earnest was their attention. In the morning, Wednesday, 10th, I think the congregation was larger than in the evening; among whom was the Rector of a neighbouring parish, who seemed then to be much athirst after righteousness.

Mr. Wade, of Aghrim, rode with me hence to Eyre-Court about fourteen miles from Ahaskra. Here I preached in the market-house, a large handsome room, to a well-behaved congregation. [Probably still standing in this fornlorn village with such gems of architecture. Lewis (1837, vol i. page 23) states that Ahascragh had 851 inhabitants in the town in the 1830s. Part of the demesne of Lord Clonbrock was in the parish and nearby was the home of Sir Ross Mahon at Castlegar. Eyrecourt was some 11 Irish miles northwest of Birr and had some 1,789 inhabitants in the 1830s. (see Lewis, 1837, i. page 610] Thence I rode on to Birr, and preached, at seven, to a large unconcerned congregation. The next day, both in the morning and evening, I spoke very plain and rough. And the congregation had quite another appearance than it had the night before. So clear it is, that love will always prevail; but there is a time for the terrors of the Lord.

After spending the period from the 12th May to the 12th June in the south west, in Counties Limerick and Cork, Wesley rode back to Offaly on the 12th June 1749 committing to his journal the following:
Monday, 12th June 1749: I had appointed to take horse at four, that I might have time to preach at Nenagh, but no horses came till seven. At four, I walked forward. After resting a while at Tullah; I walked on, till an honest man, overtaking me, desired me to ride behind him. With this help I came to Nenagh before eleven, preached there at twelve, and at Birr in the evening.

Tuesday, 13th June 1749: We rode over to Gloster, a beautiful seat, built by an English gentleman, who had scarce finished his house, and laid out his gardens, when he was called to his everlasting home. Sir L- P- [Laurence Parsons], and his lady dined with us; whether coming by accident or design, I know not. About five, I preached in the stately saloon, to a little company of plain, serious people: the fine ones looking on, and some of them seeming to be a little affected. I expounded at Birr about seven, in the strongest manner I could, the story of Dives and Lazarus. [Gloster, Brosna, Birr is a well known country house of late 17th century date and reconstructed in the early 18th century. The house was owned by the Lloyd family until 1958 when it was sold to the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco who vacated in recent times selling first to Macra na Feirme, who in turn sold the house to Senator Edward Haughey of Norbrook Laboratories. Wesley's note is interesting. The house is described briefly in George Cunningham's Roscrea and District page 63 -64 and in Mark Bence Jones Burke's Guide to Irish Country Houses at page 141. The house is said to have been remodelled c. 1730 for Trevor Lloyd by Sir Edward Lovett Pearce, his cousin. Wesley's reference to the lately deceased English gentleman must be Trevor Lloyd whose will was proved in 1747 (see Vicars Prerogative Wills page 293). The Laurence Parsons referred to was the third baronet who married in 1730 Mary Sprigge and secondly in 1742 Anne Wentworth Harman. Sir Laurence Parsons died in 1749 and was succeeded by his eldest son, William (see Burke's Peerage 1890, page 1180)].

Wednesday, 14th June 1749: We designed to dine at Ferbane, about twelve miles from Birr. We stopped at the first inn in the town. But they did not care to entertain heretics: neither did the people at the second inn. I alighted at the third, and went in, without asking any questions.

Here I met with a woman very sick, and very serious. Some of her neighbours quickly gathered about us, and we endeavoured to improve the opportunity. After some time spent in close conversation and prayer, we parted in much love.

About seven I preached at Athlone. It being the time of the general review, abundance of soldiers, and many officers were present. They all behaved with the utmost decency. But a gentleman of the town did not; which had like to have cost him dear. Many swords were drawn: but the officers interposed, and it went no farther.

Saturday, 17th June 1749: The wind being very tempestuous in the evening, I preached in our new-built House [presumably the first Methodist church in Athlone]. Toward the close of the sermon, I asked, "Which of you will give yourself, soul and body to God?" One cried out, with a cry that almost shook the house, "O, I will, I will," And as soon as she could stand, she came forth in the midst to witness it before all the congregation. It was Mrs. Glass. Her words pierced like lightening. Presently another witnessed the same resolution. And not long after, one who had been sorrowing as without hope, Mrs. Meecham, lifted up her head with joy, and continued singing and praising God to the dawn of the next day.

Perceiving this was an acceptable time, I laid aside my design of meeting the Society, and continued in prayer with the whole congregation, all our hearts being as the heart of one man.

When I had at length pronounced the blessing, no man stirred but each stayed in his place till I walked through them. I was soon called back by one crying out, "My God, my God, thou hast forgotten me." Having spoken this, she sunk to the earth. We called upon God in her behalf. The cries, both of her and of several others, mourning after God, redoubled. But we continued wrestling with God in prayer, till He gave us an answer of peace.

Sunday, 18th June 1749: I preached at five, and about two, on the Connaught side of the river: thence I hastened to Aghrim, and endeavoured to awaken a serious but sleepy congregation.

Monday, 19th June 1749: I rode over to Abaskra [Ahascragh?], and then to Mr. Mahon's at Castle-Gar. I had much conversation with Mrs. M---, and was much in doubt, from the account she gave of her own experience, whether she had not been justified many years, though she knew it not by that name.

I preached at Abaskra [Ahashra] at six, both in the evening and in the morning; on Tuesday evening at Athlone. I then met the Society, where one, and another, cried aloud for mercy: we called upon God, till several of them found mercy, and praised him with a good courage. I think more found peace with God in these four days than in sixteen months before.

Wednesday, 21st June 1749: I rode to Tyrrel's Pass, but did not find that fervour of spirit in the congregation, which was among them the last year; yet a few there were who were still pressing on to the mark.

Thursday, 22nd June 1749: I preached at noon at a village three miles from Tyrrel's Pass; in the evening at Tullamore, and on Friday morning and evening.

Saturday, 24th June 1749: I rode to Mountmellick, and dined with Joseph Fry, late a Quaker. Abundance of people were at the preaching in the eveing, and all seemed to give earnest attention.

Sunday, 25th June 1749: I preached at eight to a still increasing congregation; and God's word was as a two-edged sword. I rode thence to Portarlington, a town inhabited chiefly by French. A Clergyman there received me gladly. Some time before a gentleman of Mountmellick had desired him to preach against the Methodists. He said, "He could not, till he knew what they were;" in order to which, he came soon after and heard Mr. Larwood; and from that time, instead of preaching against them, he spoke for them, wherever he came.

As soon as we came out of church, I went straight to the Market-House, and the whole congregation followed me. I had not seen in all Ireland so glittering a company before, unless at St. Mary's church, in Dublin; and yet all of them, high and low, behaved in such a manner as became His presence before whom they stood.

Thence I rode two miles farther, to Mr. L.'s house, at Closeland, near Ballibrittis. It rained the whole time that I was preaching; but the congregation regarded it no more than I did, though I was thoroughly wet before I had done, the shower driving full in my face.

Monday, 26th June 1749: We had a blessed opportunity at Mountmelick in the evening, while I was explaining the covenant God hath made with us. The same spirit continued with us at the meeting of the Society; so that my voice could not be heard for the voice of those who cried for mercy, or praised the God of their salvation. Tuesday, 27th June 1749: I talked two hours with J-- St--n, [Strangeman?] a Quaker. He spoke in the very spirit and language wherein poor Mr. Hall used to speak before he made shipwreck of the grace of God. I found it good for me to be with him; it enlivened and strengthened my soul.

I rode in the afternoon to Closeland, and preached in the evening and morning, to a people earnestly desirous of pleasing God.

Thursday, 29th June 1749: I rode to Portarlington again, and preached to a larger congregation than before: they all seemed to hear, not only with strong desire, but with understanding also.

I afterwards explained to them the nature of a Society, and desired any who were willing so to unite together, to speak to me severally: above threescore did so the same day.

Saturday, 1st July 1749: I preached at Mountmellick.

Sunday, 2nd July 1749: I preached at eight in Portarlington, and again at two. I scarce knew how to leave off; all the people seemed to be so deeply affected. The Society now contained above one hundred members, full of zeal and good desires; and in one week the face of the whole town is changed: open wickedness is not seen; the fear of God is on every side; and rich and poor ask, "What must I do to be saved?" And how long (I thought with myself) will this continue? In most only till the fowls of the air come, and devour the seed. Many of the rest, when persecution or reproach begins, will immediately be offended. And in the small remainder, some will fall off, either through other desires, or the cares of the world, or the deceitfulness of riches.

Monday, 3rd July 1749: I preached at Edinderry, and on Tuesday morning and evening. Almost every person who was present at the meeting of the Society, appeared to be broken in pieces. A cry went up on every side, till Joseph Fry, once as eminent a sinner as even Joseph Fry of Mountmellick, and since as eminent an instance of the grace of God, broke out into prayer. It was not long before praise and prayer were mixed together; and shortly after, prayer was swallowed up in the voice of praise and thanksgiving.

Wesley returned to Dublin on Wednesday, 5th July 1749 and was there for the 12th of July celebrations. Before leaving Ireland he visited Dr. Stephen's (sic) Hospital and the Royal Hospital Kilmainham. His comments are interesting now as both buildings have been restored.

Dr. Steevens was completed in 1733 and was the first public hospital in Dublin.

Thursday, 20th July 1749: I saw Dr. Stephen's Hospital, far cleaner and sweeter than any I had seen in London, and the Royal Hospital, for old soldiers, standing on the top of an hill, overlooking Phoenix-Park. All the buildings are kept not only in good repair, but likewise exactly clean. The hall is exceeding grand; the chapel far better finished than any thing of the kind in Dublin. O what is wanting to make these men happy? Only the knowledge and the love of God.

Crookshank in his History of Methodism in Ireland (1885, reprinted 1994), states that Closeland is in the parish of Lea and that there Wesley was the guest of a Mr. Labrode.

The aftermath of John Wesley's 1749 visit is contained in a letter written from Tyrell's Pass on 24th July 1749 which John Wesley reproduces in his Journal (volume ii, pages 116 - 117). The writer is J. R. - a Methodist preacher. Crookshank states that this is Jonathan Reeves, a Methodist preacher.

"Dear Sir,

"Tyrell's Pass, July 24, 1749

"Many have found a sense of the pardoning love of God at Athlone since you left it; and the Society in general are on the stretch for the kingdom of God. The Lord has kindled a fire in Aghrim likewise. The last time but one that I was there, several were struck with deep convictions, which continued till I came again. While I was meeting the Society there, the Governess of Mr. S----'s children was struck to the ground, and in a short time filled with peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. The next morning, his Steward was cut to the heart, and fell upon his knees in the midst of the sermon, as did Mr. S---- himself, together with his wife, and great part of the congregation. The Steward went home full of peace and love. This has set the whole Society on fire: so that now everyone is crying out, 'What must I do to be saved?'

"The same fire is kindled at Portarlington. I went there the next Sunday after you. One then found a sense of God's pardoning love; and last Saturday in the Society some cried out, and some fell to the ground, three of whom found peace to their souls.

"I was at Mount-Melick likewise the next Sunday after you, and the power of God was present to heal. Two that were heavy laden, found rest that night. The next time we met, we scarce knew how to part. We continued singing and praying till five persons received a clear manifestation of the love of God: another found the same blessing while I was preaching this morning. We spent some time afterwards at James Moss's house, in praying with some that were under deep convictions; and two of them went home rejoicing in God their Saviour. I was now informed of two more that were rejoicing in God: so that in Mount-Melick twelve persons, in all, have found the 'peace that passeth all understanding,' since you left that place.

"I preached at Rahew, [Rahugh near Kilbeggan] likewise, the week after you was there. The man of the house had fetched his mother from a considerable distance; she had never heard a Methodist Preacher before. She was soon cut to the heart, and cried out aloud. One behind her bid her fall upon her knees, which she presently did, and the whole House was as in one cry. I broke off my discourse, and began to pray, which I continued till I was so spent, I could hardly speak. I went out to take a little breath, and came in again. She was crying out, 'I am dropping, dropping into hell; its mouth is open, ready to swallow me up.' I went to prayers again, and before we had done, God spoke peace to her soul. She was filled with job unspeakable, and could but just say, 'I am in a new world, I am in a new world.'

"From the whole, I cannot but observe two things, 1. What a blessing it is, when any who finds that peace, declares it openly before all the people, that we may break off and praise God. If this was always done, it would be good for many souls. The first that found it on Sunday evening, spoke before all, and we praised God: the moment she spoke, another, and then another, found peace, and each of them spoke aloud; and made the fire run through the whole congregation. I would observe, 2. The woman at Rahew had never before seen any one in the like trouble. Therefore she could not cry out because she had heard others do it, but because she could not help it; because she felt the word of God 'sharper than a two-edged sword;' and generally, the sharper the convictions are, the sooner they are over.

"This is from your son in the Gospel, "J. R."

Wesley rode with Jonathan Reeves to Edenderry in the week after Easter Sunday, 19th April 1750.

Thursday, 19th April 1750: I rode with Jonathan Reeves through a heavy rain to Edinderry. The congregation was much larger than I expected; and both in the evening and the morning we praised God with joyful lips.

Friday, 20th April 1750: I rode to Portarlington on a very bad horse, and was glad of a little rest.

Sunday, 22nd April 1750: I preached at eight; at Closeland about two; and between five and six at Portarlington, to almost all the gentry in the town, on. "Thou art not far from the kingdom of God."

Monday, 23rd April 1750: I preached at Closeland again, and the next morning spoke severally with the Members of the Society, increased both in number and in the grace of God.

Wednesday, 25th April 1750: I dined at Mr. K----'s, who had lived utterly without God for about seventy years; but God had now made both him, and most of his household, partakers of like precious faith. When I first came into the house, he was in an agony of pain, from a hurt of about forty-five years' standing. I advised to apply hot nettles; the pain presently ceases, and he arose and praised God.

Thursday, 26th April 1750: I examined the Class of children, many of whom are rejoicing in God. I then sought after some of the sheep that were lost, and left all I spoke with, determined to return. About noon I read the letters, and in the afternoon rode cheerfully to Mount-Mellick. I found the Society here much increased in grace, and yet lessened in number: a case which I scarce remember to have met with before, in all England and Ireland. Sunday, 29th April 1750: I preached at eight, at two, and at five, when some of our most vehement opposers were present, and by their seriousness and attention, gave us reason to hope they will oppose no more.

Monday, 30th April 1750: I baptized a man and woman, (late Quakers,) as I had done another the night before. Afterwards, I visited the sick. The first we went to, had been a Papist, but was cast out for hearing us. While we were at prayer, she cried bitterly after God, refusing to be comforted; nor did she cease, till He revealed his Son in her heart, which she could not but declare to all that were in the house.

About one I administered the Lord's Supper to a sick person, with a few of our Brethern and Sisters. Being straitened for time, I used no extemporary prayer at all; yet the power of God was so unusually present during the whole time, that several knew not how to contain themselves, being quite overwhelmed with joy and love. Wesley arrived in Ireland spending 12 days in Dublin and then to Edenderry, Portarlington and Mountmellick. Many of his Tullamore fair-day audience were drunk. His trip to the Midlands as set out below. In the South at Cork and Bandon there was vigorous opposition to his preaching and to the Methodist movement with violent outbreaks eventually quelled by be soldier. Methodism had formed loyal supporters in the army barracks throughout the country. He noted in his Journal:
Thence we rode to Tullamore. It being the Fair-Day, many were tolerably drunk. When I began to preach, they made a little disturbance for awhile; but the bulk of the audience were deeply attentive.

Tuesday, 1st May 1750: I found many of the first were become last, being returned as a dog to the vomit. In the evening my hoarseness (contracted in Dublin) was so increased, that I doubt few of the congregation could hear. In meeting the Society, I reproved them sharply for the lukewarmness and covetousness. In that hour the spirit of contrition came down, and all of them seemed broken in pieces: at the same time my voice was restored in a moment, so that I could once more sing praise to God.

Wednesday, 2nd May 1750: I rode to Tyrrell's Pass, and found more than double the congregation which I had there last year. The next day, when I spoke to those of the Society severally, I had still greater cause to rejoice; finding a great part of them "walking in the light," and "praising God all the day long."

Friday, 4th May 1750: I preached about noon at Cooly-lough, (near Horseleap) and about six in the Market-House at Athlone.

Sunday, 6th May 1750: I addressed myself in the morning, to the backsliders, from, "How shall I give thee up, Ephraim?" At one, to the unawakened, from, "What is a man profited if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" In the evening I preached to a far larger congregation, on the Connaught side of the river. In the midst of the sermon, a man with a fine curvetting horse drew off a large part of the audience. I paused a little, and then raising my voice, said, "If there are any more of you, who think it is of more concern to see a dancing horse, than to hear the Gospel of Christ, pray go after them." They took the reproof; the greater part came back directly, and gave double attention.

Monday, 7th May 1750: When I met the Society in the evening, one who had been always afraid to exposing herself, was struck so that she could not help crying out aloud, being in strong agonies both of soul and body. Indeed her case was quite peculiar. She felt no fear of hell, but an inexpressible sense of the sufferings of Christ, accompanied with sharp bodily pain, as if she had literally suffered with Him. We continued in prayer until twelve o'clock, and left her patiently waiting for salvation.

Tuesday, 8th May 1750: I dined at Mr. T---'s. Two other Clergymen were present, and Mr. H--, Member of Parliament for the county. We soon fell upon Justification and Inspiration, and after a free conversation seemed nearly of one mind.

Thursday, 10th May 1750: I read the letters. A famous drunkard and swearer stood as long as he could, and then fell down upon his knees before the whole congregation. All appeared to be much moved. It was difficulty I broke from them about noon, and rode to Ahaskra; where I preached in the evening to an exceeding serious congregation on, "Seek ye the Lord while he may be bound."

Friday, 11th May 1750: I talked largely with the two Miss M---'s. The elder, I found, had once known the love of God, but not kept it long, and seemed to be now earnestly mourning after it. The younger had never left her first love; and in the midst of great bodily weakness, had no fear of death, but a "desire to depart, and to be with Christ."

Saturday, 12th May 1750: I rode to Mr. Simpson's, near Oatfield; and in the evening preached at Aghrim, [Aughrim] to a well-meaning, sleeping people. Sunday, the 13th, I strove to shake some of them out of sleep, by preaching as sharply as I could. We had such a congregation at church, as (it was said) had not been seen there for twenty years before. After church I preached to abundance of Papists as well as Protestants; and now they seemed to be a little more awake.

About five in the afternoon I preached at Ahaskra, to a congregation gathered from all parts. O what a harvest might be in Ireland, did not the poor Protestants hate Christianity worse than either Popery or Heathenism? Monday, 14th May 1750: I rode to Birr. The number of people that assembled here in the evening, and at five in the morning, and their serious attention, gave me some hope that there will more good be done even in this place. On Wesley's way back to Dublin from Waterford in mid-June 1750, he stopped at Portarlington.

Sunday, 17th June 1750: I preached about nine in the Market-Place at Portarlington, again at one, and immediately after the Evening Service. The Earl of D----, and several other persons of distinction, listened a while, but it was not to their taste.

Tuesday, 19th June 1750: I rode over to Dublin, and found all things there in a more prosperous state than ever before.

Thursday, 21st June 1750: I returned to Closeland, and preached in the evening to a little earnest company. O who should draft me into a great city, if I did not know there is another world! How gladly could I spend the remainder of a busy life in solitude and retirement!

Friday, 22nd June 1750: We had a watch-night at Portarlington. I began before the usual time, but it was not easy to leave off; so great was our rejoicing.

Sun. 24, There being no English service, I went to the French church. I have sometimes thought Mr. Whitefield's action was violent, but he is a mere post to Mr Callaird.

In the Evening I preached at Mountmelick, where were two from Roscrea to show me the way thither. One of them gave so strange a relation, that I thought it own words. The strangest part of it rests not on his testimony alone, but on that of many of his neighbours, none of whom could have any manner of temptation to affirm either more or less than they saw with their own eyes.

"My son, John Dudley, was born at Roscrea, in the year 1726. He was serious from a child, tender of conscience, and greatly fearing God. When he was at school he did not play, like other children, but spent his whole time in learning. About eighteen, I took him home, and employed him in husbandry, and he grew more and more serious. On February 4th, 1747, just as I was laid down in bed, he cried out, 'My father, I am ready to be choked.' I ran, and took him in my arms, and in about a minute he recovered.

"The next morning he cried out just as before, and continued ill about two minutes. From this time he gave himself whooy to prayer, laying aside all worldly business..........

Tues. 26. I had gone through Montrath, (in the way to Roscrea,) when some met me on the bridge, and earnestly pressed me to preach; so I went into an empty house, (the rain and wind preventing my going to the Market Place) and immediately began to declare "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ". The house was presently filled; the rest of the audience stood at the doors and windows. I was not one person, man, woman, or child who behaved either rudely or carelessly.

I Preached in the Market-Place at Roscrea, between six and seven in the evening. Several gentlemen and several Clergymen were present, and all behaved well.

Thur. 28. I preached in the street in Birr, a little beyond the bridge : by this means, the congregation was four times larger than usual, in which were abundance of Romans

Fri.29. As I went through Frankfort, many people gathered together, chiefly Romans, and desired me to preach. I did so, in the middle of the town. They give me a calm, stupid attention ; but I did not perceive that any of them we affected, otherwise than with amazement.

I came to Tullamore, as it fell out, on a second fair-day and had, of course, abundance of new hearers. I found far more earnestness in the people now, than when I was here before. Why should we ever be discouraged by the want of present success? Who knows what a day may bring forth?

In the evening I preached in Athlone to many officers, and an uncommon number of soldiers, who were gathered together from every part, waiting for a review. Mrs T -- desired me to lodge at her house. About twelve I heard a huge noise. Presently the street-door was broken open, next door of Mrs T--'s chamber, then that of the room which I lay. I went to the door, on which Mr. T-- shrunk back, walked down stairs, and wrecked his vengeance on his mother's windows. Some honest gentlemen of the town had set him on, and filled him with wine for the purpose.

Wesley was back in Ireland in July 1752 accompanied by his wife. The Society still has some 420 members as was the case three or four years earlier. After his stay in Dublin for c. 10 days, he departed for the Midlands, preaching at Edenderry, Closeland near Ballybrittas, Portarlington, Mountmellick, Tullamore, Athlone and Birr. He departed for England after an eleven-week stay in October 1752.

Monday, July 2nd 1750: I preached in the evening on Rev. xx. I had none to assist me, nor any respite; and I needed none. It was such a night as I have seldom known: the stout-hearted trembled on every side, particularly the troopers late at Philipstown, who did once run well.

One of them sunk down to the ground as a stone, others could hardly stand; and the same spirit of solemn, deep humiliation seemed to run through the whole assembly.

Tuesday, 3rd: In spite of the indolence of some, and the cowardice of others, I preached in the evening on the Connaught side of the river. I then met the Society; but when I would have dismissed them none seemed willing to go. We were standing and looking at each other, when a trooper stepped out into the middle of the room, and said, "I must speak. I was Saul: I persecuted the children of God. I joined with you in Philipstown, but I fell back, and hated God and all his ways: I hated you in particular, and a day or two ago said all manner of evil of you. I was going to a woman last night, when one of my comrades met and asked me if I would go to the watch-night. Out of curiosity I came; but for half the sermon I minded nothing that was said. Then God struck me to the heart, so I could not stand, but dropped down to the ground. I slept none last night, and came to you in the morning, but I could not speak. I went from you to a few of our brethern, and they prayed with me till my burden dropped off. And now, by the grace of God, we will part no more. I am ready to go with you all over the world."

The words were as fire; they kindled a flame which spread through the congregation. We praised God with one heart and one voice. I then a second time pronounced the blessing, but the people stood without motion as before till a dragoon stepped from his fellows and said, "I was a pharisee from my youth, having a strict form of godliness, and yet I always wanted something, but I knew not what, till something within me pushed me on, I could not tell why, to hear you. I have done so since you came hither. I immediately saw, what I wanted was faith and the love of God; and he supplied my wants here last night. Now I can rejoice in God my Saviour."

Monday, July 9th 1750: I preached in the evening at Tyrrell's Pass, and at five in the morning, Tuesday, 10th. Thence we rode to Drumcree, sixteen Irish miles to the north of Tyrrell's Pass. In our way, we stopped an hour at Molingar. The Sovereign of the town came to the inn, and expressed much desire that I should preach: but I had little hopes of doing good by preaching in a place where I could preach but once, and where none but me could be suffered to preach at all. We came to Mr. N------'s about two. Many fine people came from various parts in the evening, and were perfectly civil and unconcerned: so what was said to them was written on the sand.

Wednesday, July 11th 1750: It was not so with the morning congregation. There were few dry eyes among them: some would have sunk to the ground had not others supported them; and none seemed more affected than Mrs. N------ herself. There was the same spirit in the evening; many cried out aloud, and all received the word with the deepest attention.

Thursday, July 12th 1750: The congregation at five was larger than that on Tuesday evening: and surely God gave to many both the hearing ear, and the understanding heart.

Friday, 13th: I preached once more at Portarlington, and afterwards reproved this Society likewise, for the miserable, covetousness of some and the lukewarnness of others. It may be, they "will be zealous, and repent, and do the first works."

Saturday, July 14th 1750: I returned to Dublin, and on Sunday, 15th, preached at Oxmantown-Green to such a congregation as I never saw in Dublin, nor often in Ireland before.

Wesley, back in Ireland in 1752 wrote:

Monday, 27th July 1752: I preached in Edindery at one, and at Closeland in the evening.

Tuesday, 28th July 1752: I preached at Portarlington; though I was extremely ill, and it was a pain to me to speak; but it was a comfortable pain. I could from my heart praise God for his fatherly vistation.

Wednesday, 29th July 1752: I rode to Mount-Melick, but was so hoarse and wak, that I could only preach in the house.

Friday, 31st July 1752: Being not well able to ride, I borrowed Mr. P-----'s chair [sedan chair] to Tullamore; and on Saturday reached Cony-Lough [Coolylough], and met many of my friends from all parts. I now found my strength increasing daily; it must be, as my day is.

Sunday, August 2nd 1752: I baptized Joseph English, (late a Quaker,) and two of his children. Abundance of people were at Tyrrell's Pass in the evening; many more than the house could contain. Wednesday, 5th August 1752: We rode to Athlone.

Thursday, 6th August 1752: I preached in a large open place, near the house, to many of the rich as well as poor.

Saturday, 8th August 1752: I called on a lively man, who is just married, in the ninety-second year of his age. He served as an officer, both in King William's and Queen Ann's wars, and a year or two ago began to serve the Prince of Peace. He has all his faculties of body and mind entire, works in his garden some hours every day, and praises God, who has prolonged his life to so good a purpose.

Sunday, 9th August 1752: At eight we had the usual blessing. Mr. G----- preached an excellent sermon at church, on the necessity of the religion of the heart. At five I preached on the Connaught side of the river, to abundance of Romanists as well as Protestants; all of whom seemed convinced that they ought not any longer to "halt between two opinions."

Here I learned, from her husband, that Rose Longworth found peace with God in June, 1749. This she never lost, and often rejoiced with joy unspeakable. From that time she was always remarkably serious, and walked closely with God.

About Easter, 1751, she found a great decay of her bodily strength; but of this she never complained, being only concerned lest her soul should suffer loss. In July following she was removed inot the country, but still continued walking in the light. Toward the latter end of the month, apprehending her time was short, she desired to return to Athlone. On Saturday, the 21st, she returned, extremely weak, but continually praising God; and all the following week expressing a strong desire to depart, and be with Christ.

Mr. ------- administered the sacrament to her on Sunday. She could speak little, but said, she had no doubt of her salvation. He was deeply affected, and said, he believed her, but could scarce speak for tears. When she could not be heard, she had her eyes constantly fixed upward, and her lips moving. In the afternoon she fainted way. Coming to herself she said, "Ah! I was disappointed; I thought I had escaped." She then prayed for her husband, for her parents, for the Society, the Church, and the whole world. Fainting again, and coming to herself, she cried out, "See my Redeemer! See my Redeemer! See how his blood steams! I see the Lamb in glory! I see the Lamb in glory. Farewell. God be with you. Farewell." She then ceased to speak, and went to God.

Wednesday, 12th August 1752: In the evening I preached at Birr. I scarce ever saw so large, so genteel, and so serious a congregation there before. The next evening I reached Limerick....

Monday, 18th September 1752: On Tuesday I rode to Portarlington, and the next day to Birr, through so violent a storm, that my strength was utterly exhausted, and how I should preach, I knew not; but God soon renewed my strength, and on Thursday, the 21st, I arose lively and well; and in the afternoon, through continued rain, came very wet, but not tired, to Limerick.

Monday, April 26th 1756: I set out for Cork, purposing to see as many Societies as I could on my way. In the afternoon I came to Edinderry, where the little Society have built a commodious preaching-house. I had designed to preach abroad, but the keen north wind drove us into the house. The congregation (though they had no previous notice) filled it from end to end: but some of them found it too hot, and hurried out, while I applied, "Ye must be born again."

Wednesday, April 28th 1756: I rode to Tullamore, where one of the Society, Edward Wallis, gave me a very surprising account of himself. He said:-
"When I was about twenty years old, I went to Waterford for business. After a few weeks I resolved to leave it, and packed up my things in order to set out the next morning; this was Sunday; but my landlord pressed me much not to go till the next day. In the afternoon we walked out together, and went into the river: after awhile, leaving him near the shore, I struck out into the deep. I soon heard a cry, and turning, saw him rising and sinking in the channel of the river. I swam back with all speed, and seeing him sink again, dived down after him: when I was near the bottom, he clasped his arm round my neck, and held me so fast, that I could not rise. Seeing death before me, all my sins came into my mind, and I faintly called for mercy. In awhile my senses went away, and I thought I was in a place full of light and glory, with abundance of people: while I was thus, he who held me died, and I floated up to the top of the water. I then immediately came to myself, and swam to the shore, where several stood who had seen us sink, and said, 'They never knew such a deliverance before;' for I had been under water full twenty minutes. It made me more serious for two or three months. Then I returned to all my sins.

"But in the midst of all, I had a voice following me everywhere, 'When an able Minister of the Gospel comes, it will be well with thee!' Some years after I entered into the army: our troop lay at Philip's Town when Mr. W. came. I was much affected by his preaching, but not so as to leave my sins. The voice followed me still; and when Mr. J. W. came, before I saw him I had an unspeakable confiction that he was the man I looked for; and soon after I found peace with God, and it was well with me indeed."

Thursday, April 29th 1756: I preached on one side of the Market-Place, to a numerous congregation. I was afterwards invited by some of the officers to spend an hour with them at the barracks. It, at least, freed them from prejudice against the present work of God, if it answered no farther end.

Friday, April 30th 1756: I was pressed to turn aside to Athlone, a gentlewoman of Barbadoes, who was obliged to return thither shortly, having a great desire to see me. So I went to Athlone, and spent one or two hours in close conversation with her and her husband. We had a comfortable meeting in the evening, and most of the gentry in the town were present; but who can warn them to flee from the wrath to come? They are "increased in goods, and need nothing!"

Saturday, May 1st 1756: I rode to Birr, through rain, hail, and snow, such as is usual on the first of January. I had designed to preach abroad; but the wind was too sharp to be borne either by me or the people. Sunday, May 2nd 1756: We rode to Mountmelick. About five I preached in the Market-Place. I was on the point of concluding when a violent storm came. Till then the bottles of heaven were stayed.

Tuesday, May 4th 1756: We rode to Portarlington; where on Wednesday, 5th, at the desire of several who could not attend the early preaching, I preached in the assembly-room at ten, on, "Ye must be born again." Many of the best in the town (so called) were present, and seemed not a little amazed. Many more came in the evening, among whom I found an unusual l iberty of spirit. For the present, most of them seemed much affected: but how soon will the thorns grow up!

He later departed for Kilkenny and Cork were he preached in May and June. In July he returned to the Midlands and preached in Athlone on 8th of July 1756. On the 14th of the same month he was at Handy's of Coolylough and next day in Tullamore.

Thursday, 15th July 1756: In the evening I preached at Tullamore, in Barrack-Street. And many, who never had so much curiosity as to walk a hundred yards to hear the preaching, vouchsafed to hear it at their own doors. In the middle of the sermon came a Quarter-Master, very drunk, and rushed in among the people. In a short time he slipped off his hat, and gave all the attention of which he was capable. So did many of the soldiers, and many officers. O let some lay it to heart!

Friday, 16th July 1756: We walked down to Lord Tullamore's (that was his title then,) and old mile from the town. His gardens are extremely pleasant. They contain groves, little meadows, kitchen gardens, plats of flowers, and little orchards, intermixed with fine canals and pieces of water. And will not all these make their owner happy? Not if he has one unholy temper! Not unless he has in himself a fountain of water, springing up into everlasting life.

[This is an interesting reference to the old house of Redwood, which stood near the farm buildings on what is now Charleville estate. Charles Moore, the second Lord Tullamore, had acquired Redwood about 1740 from the Forth family and renamed it Charleville. He spent money on improvements to the estate including works on the river. It was possibly about this time that the grotto was built. It stood (still stands) at the end of the garden of the old house. Lord Tullamore was created earl of Charleville (of the first creation) in 1757 and died in 1764. The property then passed to his sister's husband, John Bury of Shanngrove, County Limerick. After a sermon in Tyrellspass on the 17th July, he made his way to Cavan. Later he visited Newry and other northern centres and returned from Newry, over three days arriving at Tullamore on 3rd August.]

Tuesday, August 3rd 1756: We rode to Tullamore through heavy rain, which a strong wind drove full in our face. The only wild Irish whom I have seen yet, a knot of officers, were present at the preaching in the evening, and behaved tolerably well.

Wednesday, August 4th 1756: I preached at Portarlington in the evening, and was going to take horse in the morning, when a gentleman came and said, he was glad of my company in his chariot. I accompanied him to Johnstown, where we dined; and then took horse and rode on to Dublin.

He made the passage from Dublin to Holyhead on the 12th August, the journey being a pleasant one of just 23 hours!!

He did not visit Ireland in 1757, but came again in the Spring of 1758 arriving on 30th March. Wesley visited Trinity College and thought the new front is "exceedingly grand" but the windows in front square too small. On 24th April he left Dublin and arrived at Edenderry with one of his preachers, Robert Swindells.

In the evening I preached under the Castle-wall, to a very numerous congregation, though some of the Quakers (so called) had laboured much to dissuade their people from coming; and one poor man, lately reclaimed by hearing our Preachers, from a course of open, scandalous sin, they did persuade to stay at home. When he turns back to his vomit, who shall answer for his blood?

Wednesday, 26th April: I walked round the poor remains of the Castle. The situation is extremely fine. It stands on the top of a gently-rising, commanding the prospect all four ways, and having rows of tall trees reaching down to the vale on three sides, with a grove covering it on the north-east. But the house, as well as the gardens round about it, are now utterly run to ruin. I wonder none has rebuilt it; unless there is a curse on the place, for the sins of its former inhabitants!

The remains of Blundell's castle still stand overlooking the town. Wesley had already noted the glittering society in the Huguenot town of Portarlington now in 1758 he noted the same richer. This time he visited Mr. Laborde of Closeland's home for the last time and this gentleman died soon after.

In the evening I preached at Portarlington. Both this day and the next I was much concerned for my rich, gay hearers; and God gave me such a word for them, as I scarce ever had before. Hence, at his earnest request, I rode over to Mr. Laborde, who said, "He could not die in peace till he had seen me." For some time he had been quite distracted; but he spoke quite sensibly yesterday, while Mr. Swindells was there, saying with many tears, "He had never prospered in any thing, since he used Mr. W. so ill." That night he had sound and refreshing sleep, which he had not had for many weeks before: and when we called, most of what he said was reasonable and connected. Perhaps God may put an end to the troubles which have lately encompassed him on every side.

Saturday, 29th April 1758: I preached in the Market-place, at Mountmelick, in the evening, and at eight in the morning. At eleven, I went to church. Soon after, seven or eight troopers came into the same pew. Several were in the next pew, and others scattered up and down the church. In the middle of the service, a person came in, and whispered to one of them in our pew; soon after another person came in, and whispered to the corporal. Several of them then whispered together; after which four went out, but quickly returned with many swords and pistols. After whispering together again, they all rose up from all parts, and went out of the church in a body. This put the whole congregation in an uproar, and many ran out in all haste. Afterwards the secret appeared to be this:- Three weeks ago, a man of the town grossly abused a trooper, whose patience at length being worn out, he gave him a cut across the head. A report now came, that the man was dead. On this the mob gathered to seize the trooper: but the others resolved not to give him up to a mob, but to the peace-officer.

I suppose most of the Protestants in the town were present at the evening Sermon. Many Papists also stood in the skirts of the congregation, though liable to heavy penance for it. I preached much longer than I am accustomed, finding it an acceptable time. Well might Kempis say, "He rides easily, whom the grace of God carried."

Monday, May 1st 1758: I strove to put an end to the bitter contentions which had well nigh torn the Society in pieces. I heard the contending parties face to face, and desired them to speak at large. God gave his blessing therewith: the snare was broken, and they were cordially reconciled. Only one person was out of all patience, and formally renounced us all. But within an hour God broke her heart also, and she asked pardon with many tears. So there is reason to hope they will, for the time to come, "bear one another's burdens."

In the evening I preached at Tullamore, not only to a large number of Protestants, but to many Papists, and almost all the troopers in the town.

Tuesday, 2nd May 1758: I wrote a short answer to Dr. Free's weak, bitter scurrilous invective against the people called Methodists. But I doubt whether I shall meddle with him any more; he is too dirty a writer for me to touch.

Wednesday, 3rd May 1758: I preached, at four in the afternoon, at Cooly-lough, [near Horseleap] and at eight in the morning; after which I rode on to Tyrrell's Pass. The letters which I receive here were seasonable as rain in drought. I had before found much weariness; but God thereby gave a check to my faintness of spirit, and enabled me to "gird up the loins of my mind."

In the evening, the weather being calm and mild, I preached on the side of a meadow, the people standing before me, one above another on the side of a gently-rising hill. And many did indeed, at that hour, "taste and see that the Lord is gracious."

After a trip north, he was back in Tullamore and Birr on June 14th:

Wednesday, June 14th 1758: I preached at Tullamore about eleven, and at Birr in the evening.

Later he journeyed to Limerick. He left Ireland for Wales via Cork on 5th August 1758.

Wesley remained in Britain in 1759 but returned to Ireland on 1st April 1760. He took ship to Ireland from Liverpool about 9 am on Sunday, 30th March and arrived on Tuesday, 1st April at c. 12 noon. He was now commencing service at 4.00 am instead of 5.00 am. Probably for the first time, he headed north instead of to the Midlands following on his stay in Dublin.

He preached in Athlone on Trinity-Sunday, June 1st 1760. On 14th June, he was at Tyrrellspass:

Trinity-Sunday, June 1st 1760: I preached about nine, in the market-house in Athlone, on "There are three that bear record in heaven - and these there are one." Afterwards, at the Minister's desire, I read prayers in the church, and in the evening preached on the Connaught side of the river, on, "Ye must be born again," Both Papists and Protestants attended, and some seemed cut to the heart.

... on Saturday 14, I came to Tyrrell's Pass, and found several of our friends who were come from various parts. Sunday, 15th June 1760: I preached at eight, and at twelve, (there being no service at the church.) A heap of fine gay people came in their post-chaises to the evening preaching. I spoke very plain, but the words seemed to fly over them: "Gallio cared for none of these things."

Monday, 16th June 1760: I preached in the evening, in the long shady walk at Edinderry, to such a congregation as had not been seen there for many years. And God gave an edge to his word, both this evening and the next morning: He can work even among these dry bones.

Wednesday, 18th June 1760: I designed to preach in the market-house at Portarlington, but it was pre-engaged for a ball; so I preached, and with much comfort, in our own room, as also at five in the morning. I preached at ten for the sake of the gentry; but it was too early, they could not rise so soon. In the afternoon, I rode to Mountmelick. The rain was suspended in the evening, while I exhorted a large congregation to "walk in the old paths." Many Papists appeared to be quite astonished; some of them were almost persuaded to walk therein. The next evening I preached in the market-place, for the sake of the rich who could hear there, without impeachment to their honour; and some were deeply affected. Surely the thorns will not choke all the good seed!

Saturday, 21st June 1760: The congregation at Tullamore was near as large as at Mountmelick. At eight in the morning, Sunday, 22nd June, it was much increased, but much more at one; and I have reason to believe that God at this time touched several careless hearts. I rode from thence to Coolylough, and found a congregation gathered from twenty miles around. It rained when I began to preach, but none offered to go away; and God did indeed "send a gracious rain upon his inheritance," and comforted the souls of his servants.

Monday, 23rd June 1760: Being the quarterly meeting, the Stewards from all the country Societies were present; a company of settled, sensible men. Nothing is wanting in this kingdom, but zealous, active Preachers, tenacious of order, and exact discipline.

Tuesday, 24th June 1760: I took horse early, and at ten preached at Cloughan, about 24 miles from Coolylough. We afterwards rode through Longford, but did not stop, as the day was cool was pleasant. About two we were unawares encompassed with a multitude of Papists, coming out of their mass-house. One of them knowing me soon alarmed the rest, who set up a hideous roar, and drew up in battle-array; but we galloped through them and went on to Drumersnave, where I preached in the evening; and the next day, Wednesday, 25th June, rode on to Sligo.

On Sunday, June 8 1760 "I preached to a numerous congregation and returned to Athlone, soon enough to speak once more to a large concourse of all ranks and religions; but great part of them were as bullocks unaccustomed to the yoke, neither taught of God nor man."

Saturday 14 June 1760 - "After preaching to several of the intermediate Societies in the way, on Saturday, 14, I came to Tyrrell's Pass, and found several of our friends who were come from various parts."

Wesley now made his way to Tyrrell's Pass where "a heap of fine, gay, people came in their post-chaises to the evening preaching." He spoke very "plainly", but his words seemed to fly over them. He mentions Edenderry:

Monday 16 June 1760. "I preached in the evening, in the long shady walk at Edinderry, to such a congregation as had not been seen there for many years. And God gave an edge to his word, both this evening and the next morning: "Gallio cared for none of these Things". At Portarlington he preached at four o'clock in the morning, and again at ten: Wednesday 18 June 1760: "I designed to preach in the market-house at Portarlington, but it was pre-engaged for a ball; so I preached, and with much comfort, in our own room, as also at five in the morning. I preached at ten for the sake of the gentry; but it was too early, they could not rise so soon."

At Mountmellick he exhorted a large congregation to walk in the old paths; many Romanists appeared quite astonished, and some of them were almost persuaded to walk therein. At Tullamore, where a chapel was built that year, [notes Crookshank] the audience was nearly as large as at Mountmellick. He rode to Coolalough [near Horseleap] and preached to a congregation assembled from twenty miles round, and held the quarterly meeting, the stewards - "a company of settled, sensible men" - being present. On the 24th of June he spoke at Cloughan, 24 miles from Coolylough and thence to Longford.

Preaching daily, and riding long journeys over rough roads in bad weather, and with all kinds of horses, Wesley came to Eyrecourt, on Wednesday, 2nd July 1760 "where many threatened great things, but all vanished into air." At ten he preached in the Courthouse.

"In the evening I preached at Birr, with more satisfaction than for several years; finding many more alive to God than ever, and provoking to set out early in the morning, but their love constrained me to stay a day longer; so I had leisure to compete the account of the Societies. At present the Societies in Connaught contain little more than two hundred Members; those in Ulster, about two hundred and fifty; those in Leinster, a thousand........"

Wesley continued his travels around Ireland, taking in Cahir (where he addressed a large and serious congregation of soldiers), Clonmel, Waterford and Cork. After a tour of seventeen weeks, Wesley got back to Dublin. He had, he noted, preached scores of sermons, travelled many hundreds of miles, being subject to great privations, and sometimes to serious danger; but in the midst of all the Lord was with him, and he was happy and prosperous in His glorous work. On July 24th he embarked for Chester.

Wesley was not in Ireland in 1761, but did return in 1762, in April of that year. After three weeks in Dublin he went north, preaching in Belfast, Carrickfergus, Lurgan and elsewhere. He was in the Midlands by 16th May visiting Athlone, Edenderry, Portarlington and the Midland towns.

Sunday 16 May 1762: "I had observed to the Society last week, that I had not seen one congregation ever in Ireland behave so ill at church as that at Athlone, laughing, talking, and staring about during the whole service; I had added, "This is your fault; for if you had attended the church, as you ought to have done, your presence and example would not have failed to influence the whole congregation:" and so it appeared. I saw not one to day either laughing, talking, of staring about; but a remarkable seriousness was spread from the one end of the church to the other." On May 24th he went to climb Croagh Patrick of which he has given an interesting account.

24th May 1762: "I went with two friends to see one of the greatest natural wonders in Ireland, Mount Eagle, vulgarly called Crow-Patrick (sic). The foot of it is fourteen miles from Castlebar. There we left our horses, and procured a guide. It was just twelve when we alighted; the sun was burning hot, and we had not a breath of wind. Part of the ascent was a good deal steeper than an ordinary pair of stairs. About two we gained the top, which is an oval, grassy plain, about a hundred and fifty yards in length, and seventy or eighty in breadth. The upper part of the mountain much resembles the Peak of Teneriffe: I think it cannot rise much less than a mile perpendicular from the plain below. There is an immense prospect, on one side toward the sea, and on the other over the land; but as most of it is waste and uncultivated, the prospect is not very pleasing." It was a warm summer and he spoke of violent heat continuing for eight days towards the end of May 1762. At Waterford on the 7th July 1762 he saw the execution of four Whiteboys (a secret Agrarian society): "Four of the Whiteboys, lately condemned for breaking open houses, were executed. They were all, notwithstanding the absolution of their Priest, ready to die for fear of death; two or three of them laid fast hold on the ladder, and could not be persuaded to let it go. One, in particular, gave such violent shrieks, as might be heard near a mile off......."

Tuesday 13 July 1762: "I rode to Birr. About forty persons attended in the evening, and half as many in the morning. I saw there was but one way to do any good; so in the evening I preached abroad [out in the town]. I had then hundreds of hearers......."

Thursday 15 July 1762: "I took my old standing in the Market-place at Mountmelick; but the next evening the rain drove us into the Market-house. Afterward we had a joyful Love-feast. Indeed hitherto God has been pleased to mark all our way with blessings."

Saturday 17 July 1762: "I went on to poor, dead Portarlington: and no wonder it should be so, while the Preachers coop themselves up in a room with twenty or thirty hearers. I went straight to the Market-place, and cried aloud, "Hearken! Behold, a sower went forth to sow." God made his word quick and powerful, and "sharp as a two-edged sword." Abundantly more than the room could contain were present at five in the morning. At eight I began in the Market-place again, on, "How shall I give thee up, Ephraim?" Solemn attention sat on every face, and God repeated his call to many hearts. In the evening I preached at Tullamore." [Crookshank mentions that there was a terrible storm of thunder and lightning, most of the houses were shaken, yet no harm was done.] Wesley notes in the journal at 19th July 1762: "Between two and three in the morning was such thunder and lightning as I never knew in Europe. The crack and the flash were in the same instant: most of the houses shook; and yet no hurt was done in the whole town. But some good was done: for at five o'clock, the preaching-house was quite filled; and the inward voice of the Lord was mighty in operation: this also was a glorious voice!"

Tuesday 20 July 1762: "We had our quarterly meeting at Coolylough. On Wednesday I preached at Clara;

Thursday, 22nd, at Tyrell's Pass; and on Friday went on to Edinderry. Here I found some who had been long labouring in the fire, and toiling to work themselves into holiness......."

Tuesday 27 July 1762: "I received a comfortable letter from Edinderry. "When you came hither, Satan had gained such an advantage over us, that few even of the Society would read your sermons, saying they were nothing but the law; but God has now taught us better"."

On July 31st Wesley left for England.

Saturday 6 July 1765: We rode to Portarlington. At seven I preached in the Market-house, to a numerous congregation. Near as many were present at eight in the morning. I had great liberty of speech; and the manner wherein they suffered the word of exhortation, persuaded me it would not be in vain.

We came to Mountmellick before the church began, and were glad to find it was Sacrament Sunday. [Crookshank (1994 ed, i, p172) states that a new chapel had been built in Mountmellick which was continued in use for about 117 years.] In the evening I preached on one side of the Market-place, on our Lord's lamentation over Jerusalem, to almost all the Protestants in the town, and not a few of the Papists. To those I made a particular application in the conclusion of my discourse. Indeed I never found so great a concern for them as since I came last into the kingdom. Monday, 8 July 1765: I preached in the Market-place once more; and it was a solemn hour. I left many of the people much alive to God, and athirst for his whole image. I preached at Tullamore in the evening. At five in the morning the house was near full. While I was preaching on Tuesday evening in the Market-place, we had several showers; but few went away. Here likewise I was constrained to address myself to the Papists in particular, and to exhort them never to rest, till they were partakers of the common salvation.

About eleven we were waked with a cry of fire, which was at the next door but one. The flame shone so that one might see to pick up a pin, and the sparks flew on every side, so that it was much feared the neighbouring houses would take fire, as several of them were thatched. But the violent rain which fell an hour before had made the thatch so wet that it could not catch quickly, and in less than two hours all the fire was quenched. So we slept the rest of the night in peace.

Wednesday, 10 July 1765: I preached at Clara about noon, and in the evening at Athlone. The two next evenings I preached in the Market-house for the sake of the Papists, who durst not come to the room. Saturday 13 July 1765: I read Sir Richard Cox's History of Ireland. I suppose it is accounted as authentic as any that is extant. But surely never was there the like in the habitable world! Such a series of robberies, murders, and burning of houses, towns, and countries, did I never hear or read of before. I do not now wonder Ireland is thinly inhabited, but that it has any inhabitants at all! Probably it had been wholly desolate before now, had not the English come, and prevented the implacable wretches from going on till they had swept each other from the earth.

In the afternoon I rode to Aghrim, and preached, about seven to a deeply serious congregation, most of whom were present again at eight in the morning. On Sunday, 14th, about five, I began in my usual place at Athlone, on the Connaught side of the river. I believe the congregation (both of Protestants and Papists) was never so large before. Some were displeased at this; and several pieces of turf were thrown over the houses, with some stones; but neither one nor the other could in the least interrupt the attention of the people. Then a Popish miller (prompted by his betters, so called) got up to preach over against me; but some of his comrades throwing a little dirt in his face, he leaped down in haste to fight them. This bred a fray, in which he was so roughly handled, that he was glad to get off with only a bloody nose.

Monday 15 July 1765: I had the pleasure of meeting many of my friends from various parts at Coolylough. I preached, at twelve, under the shade of some spreading trees, and again at six in the evening. From there, at Tyrrell's Pass some persons of influence were present, and he preached with a peculiar blessing from God. Tuesday 16 July 1765: I preached at Tyrrell's Pass, with a peculiar blessing from God, though many persons of fortune were in the congregation. But the poor and rich are his.

At Edenderry, it was noted that many Quakers were in the audience - Wednesday July 17 1765: I preached in the Grove at Edinderry. Many of the Quakers were there, (it being the time of their General Meeting,) and many of all sorts. I met here with the Journal of William Edmundson, one of their Preachers in the last century. Soon after Wesley made a return to Dublin "The wind is in our face tempering the heat of the sun, we had a pleasant ride to Dublin." Having spent four months in the country, Wesley embarked for England on August 2nd. Wesley did not visit Ireland in 1766 but did return in 1767. As in 1765 he made the crossing from Scotland to the north of Ireland leaving the Midlands to almost the end of his journeys through Ireland of that year.

He found in Birr the wildest congregations he had seen: Sunday 14 June 1767: In the evening I preached at Birr, to a wilder congregation than I ever saw at Kilkenny: however, as I stood near the barracks, the number of soldiers that attended, kept them so far in awe, that they durst only laugh and make a little noise, till the whole body of the Papists ran away together. The rest were them tolerably attentive, and grew more and more serious till I concluded.

Monday 15 June 1767: I rode through a pleasant and well cultivated county to Aghrim. For many years I have not seen so large a congregation here, and so remarkably well-behaved. At the prayer, both before and after sermon, all of them kneeled upon the grass. A few of the poor Papists only remained standing, at a distance from the rest of the people. These would come in droves at every place, if the Priests as well as the King, would grant liberty of conscience.

At the desire of the good old widow, Mrs. M--------, I went with Mr. S------- to C-------. Lord and Lady M--------- were there before us, to whom I was probably

"A not expected, much-unwelcome guest."

But whatsoever it was to them, it was a heavy afternoon to me, as I had no place to retire to, and so was obliged to be in genteel company for two or three hours together. O what a dull thing is life without religion! I do not wonder that time hangs heavy upon the hands of all who know not God, unless they are perpetually drunk with noise and hurry of one kind or another.

Wednesday 17 June 1767: We came to Athlone. Here the scene was changed. I was among those that both feared and loved God; but to this day they have not recovered the loss which they sustained, when they left off going to church. It is true they have long been convinced of their mistake, yet the fruit of it still remains; so that there are very few who retain that vigour of spirit which they before enjoyed. At seven I preached in the new house, which Mr. S. has built entirely at his own expense. The congregation was, as usual, both large and serious. I rested the four following days, only preaching morning and evening.

Sunday 21 June 1767: We had a solemn meeting of the Society at five. After preaching at eight, I would willingly have gone to church, but was informed there had been no service for near two years, and would be none for a year or two longer, the inside of the church wanting to be repaired! In the evening I preached in the barracks. I know not that ever I saw such a congregation at Athlone before; rich and poor, Protestants and Papists, gathered together from every side; and deep attention sat on all, while I explained that solemn declaration (part of the Gospel for the day,) "If they hear not Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead."

Tuesday 23 June 1767: About one I preached in the Market-place at Clara. I admired the seriousness of the whole congregation. Indeed one or two gentlemen appeared quiet unconcerned; but the presence of the greater gentlemen kept them within bounds. So they were as quiet as if they had been at the playhouse. This, and the following evening, I preached in the Market-place at Tullamore.

Thursday 25 June 1767, I was desired to look at the monument lately erected for the Earl of Charleville. It observes "That he was the last of his family, the Great Moores of Croghan."

But how little did riches profit either him, who died in the strength of his years, or his heir, who was literally overwhelmed by them: being so full of care, that sleep departed from him, and he was restless day and night; till after a few months, life itself was a burden, and an untimely death closed the scene!

Wesley is here referring to the monument now in St. Catherine's church, which was commissioned by the Bury family from John Van Nost the younger (1712 - 80). Homan Potterton in his Irish Church Monuments 1750 - 1880 (Belfast, 1975) states that the memorial was commissioned by Lord Charleville's nephew, John Bury. John Bury was the son of Lord Charleville's sister, Jane Moore. The family home was Shannongrove, Co. Limerick and his father, William, married Jane Moore in 1723. John Bury, the eldest son, inherited the Charleville Estate in 1764 at the age of 39. He died in a bathing accident at Ringsend, Dublin shortly after, on 4th August 1764. His only son was Charles William Bury, born 30th June 1764 and came of age in 1785. He presided over the fortunes of Tullamore until his death on 31st October 1835 (see Burke's Irish Family Records (London, 1976) pp 190 - 192). The monument was first placed in the old church in the present Shambles, Church Street c. 1767, and in the present St. Catherine's church in 1814. Regarding the monument, Lord Charleville is represented by a recumbent effigy flanked by female allegorical figures, emblematic of Justice and Religion. John Bury is commemorated with the bust sitting on the urn.

Saturday June 27 1767: The congregation in the Market-house at Portarlington was widely different from that at Mountmellick. I endeavoured to suit my subject to my audience, preaching from, "Gallio cared for none of these things." But some of them were quite above conviction. So finding that they had neither sense, nor good manners, (of religion I did not suspect them,) the next day I adjourned to a new house, in which I preached morning and evening: and here the greatest part of the congregation, both Papists and Protestants, behaved with decency.

Monday June 29 1767: We took horse about a quarter past three, and before eight preached at Coolylough. At twelve, I preached in the Shady Walk; afterwards we had the quarterly meeting. I found no reason to complain of any of the Societies; only they want more life and zeal.

Tuesday June 30 1767: I observed more good manners at Tyrrell's Pass, in rich as well as poor, than at Portarlington.

Wednesday July 1 1767: A friend carried me to Belvidere, [Belvedere, near Mullingar] a seat built on the side of a clear lake, with walks and gardens adjoining, so curiously laid out, as to exceed even the Earl of Charleville's. One would scarce think it possible to have such a variety of beauties in so small a compass. But, -

"How soon, alas! will these upbraid
Their transistory master dead!"

We went on to Molingar, [sic] where for many years no Methodist Preacher could appear [for fear of violence]. The Sessions-house here was used as a Guard-house. I sent to the Commanding officer, and desired leave to preach there. This he not only gave, but came himself. So did many of the soldiers, as well as the townsmen. In the evening, notwithstanding the cold and blustering winds, I was obliged to preach abroad at Tyrrell's Pass. But the rain, on the two following evenings, drove us into the house at Edinderry.

Saturday July 4 1767: Having now finished my circuit, I went on cheerfully to Dublin.

On July 29th, he embarked at Donaghadee for Scotland, having spent just four months in Ireland. 1769 J

ohn Wesley returned again in 1769, to minister to the Irish congregation now close on 3,000 as compared with c. 400 in the late 1740s.

On March 22nd Wesley arrived back at Dublin, having had a smooth crosing. Again he travelled north from Dublin and then to the West and south, arriving in the Midlands at Birr from Kilkenny.

Monday 19 June 1769: In the evening I preached at Birr, and removed some misunderstandings which had crept into the Society.

Tuesday 20 June 1769: I went on to Aghrim, [Aughrim],and spoke as plain as possibly I could to a money-loving people on, "God said unto him, Thou fool!" But I am afraid many of them are sermon-proof. Yet God has all power; and sometimes he sends, when and where it pleases him, "O'erwhelming showers of saving grace."

But I have never observed these to last long; and in all the intervals of them, he acts by his standing rule, "Unto him that hath," and uses what he hath, "shall be given; and he shall have more abundantly; but from him that hath not," uses it not, "shall be taken away even that he hath."

Wednesday 21 June 1769: I went on to Athlone.

Friday 23 June 1769: I rode to Abidarrig, to the quarterly meeting. Many of the people came from far, and God gave them a good reward for their labour.

Saturday 24 June 1769: We returned to Athlone.

Sunday 25 June 1769: In the afternoon I stood in Barrack-street, and cried aloud, to a mixed multitude, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock." I never before saw so quiet a congregation on this side the water. There was not only no tumult, but no murmur to be heard, no smile to be seen on any face.

Monday 26 June 1769: About noon I preached on the Green, at Clara, to an exceeding serious congregation; and in the evening at Tullamore.

Wesley found a small increase in the Society in Tullamore, at Mountmellick he found a solemn time and at Mountrath he preached in the shell of a new house to many more than it could contain, and all were quiet and attentive.

Tuesday 27 June 1769: I found a little increase in the Society; but there cannot be much without more field-preaching.......

From Tullamore he wrote a letter, recorded in his Journals to a 'pious and sensible woman.' On 28th June 1769 he rode to Mountmellick.

Wednesday 28 June 1769: I rode to Mount-mellick, and for the sake of some tender persons, preached in the new house. It was a solemn time; in consequence of which it was pretty well filled in the morning. A serious awe spread over the whole congregation; but more remarkably the next evening, while I was opening and applying the story of Dives and Lazarus.

Friday, 30 June 1769: I rode over to Montrath [Mountrath], a wild place as most in Ireland, and preached in the shell of a new house, to many more than it would contain. All were quiet and attentive. In the middle of the sermon, a young woman, who was a sinner, endeavoured for a while to hide her tears, by creeping behind another, till in a few minutes her strength failed, and she sunk down to the ground. I was sorry they carried her away, otherwise I think she would have soon lifted up her head with joy.

In the evening we had a Love-feast at Mount-Melick, and great was our rejoicing in the Lord. Many were filled with consolation, trusting he would soon "make an end of sin, and bring in everlasting righteousness."

Saturday, 1 July 1769: I found a far different face of things at Portarlington. The large Society had once a hundred and thirty members; (a hundred and four I joined in three days;) it had now no more than twenty-four; and some of these had only a name to live. In the evening I applied particularly to the backsliders; but almost as soon as I began, a large company of quality (as they call them) came, and embarrassed me not a little. I knew this was heathen Greek to them; but I could not then change my subject: however, I diluted my discourse as much as I could, that it might not be quite too strong for their digestion.

Monday 3 July 1769: I rode to Coolylough, (where was the quarterly meeting,) and preached at eleven, and in the evening. While we were singing, I was surprised to see the horses, from all parts of the ground, gathering about us. Is it true then, that horses as well as lions and tigers, have an ear for music?

Wednesday 5 July 1769: I went on to Tyrrell's Pass.

Thursday 6 July 1769: At eleven I preached in the Court-house at Molingar,[sic] to a very genteel, and yet serious audience. In the evening I preached at Tyrell's Pass again; and on

Death of Mrs Fry

Friday, the 7th, at Edinderry. Here I received, from Joseph Fry, a particular account of his late wife, an Israelite indeed. He said, "She was a strict attendant on all the means of grace, and a sincere lover of the people of God. She had a remarkably good understanding, and much knowledge of the things of God. Though she was of an exceeding bashful temper, yet she was valiant for the truth; not sparing to speak very plain in defence of it, before persons of all conditions. Two years ago she began to lose her health, and grew worse and worse, till September 29th. On that day she was very restless. Observing her to have an unusual colour, I judged she could not continue long. She was sensible of it, and said, 'Do not go from me; for my time is short. O! it is a hard thing to die!' After a while, she said, 'Dear Jesus, shall it be so with me as with the wicked?' I was deeply affected at seeing her in such a state; yet something told me, all will be well. I exhorted her, with all my might, to lean on Jesus, and found myself unusually blessed in so doing; but still she did not seem to receive it, till I observed her jaw was fallen. I was then concerned more than ever, lest she should die without hope. I spoke with more vehemence, while she lay speechless, with her eyes up to heaven; but on a sudden she got her lips together again, and said, with a loud voice, 'Now, my love, I experience what you have said. After all, my Jesus is mine. The Devil is conquered; there, there you may see him going with shame.' She then praised God so loud, that one might hear her in the street, and added, 'Fine sport, my dear Joe, the Devil is cast.' After rejoicing in God some time, she closed her eyes; but in a little while she said, 'O was it not very pretty when the wise virgins went out in white, to meet their Lord? Yet what would their robes have signified, without his righteousness? ' and died."

The next day I went on to Dublin, and found all things as quiet as I left them. Monday, 8 April 1771: As the weather continued extremely cold, I judged it best to visit the inland counties and the south of Ireland first. So to-day I rode to Edinderry, but was constrained by the keen north wind to preach within. The case was the same at Tyrrell's Pass, on Tuesday, the 9th, where I preached in the shell of the new house.

Wednesday, 10 April 1771: I preached in the Court-house at Molingar, to a serious and decent congregation; but they seemed quite unconcerned. Those who met in the Court-house at Longford in the evening were of quite another spirit. They drank in every word, while I explained, "Lord, are there few that be saved?" Who can despair of doing good in any place? None in this kingdom seemed so barren as Longford; and that for many years. After near twenty years labour we sought fruit, but found none. But on a sudden the seed so long hid is sprung up, and promises a plentiful harvest.

Thursday, 11 April 1771: I preached at Loughan and Athlone. Friday, 12 April 1771: At Aghrim. Friday, 12 April 1771: I rode back to Athlone, where there is now no opposition either from rich or poor. The consequence of this is, there is no zeal, while the people dwell at ease. O what state upon earth is exempt from danger! When persecution arises, how many are offended! When it does not arise, how many grow cold, and leave their first love! Some perish by the storm, but far more by the calm. "Lord, save or we perish!"

Sunday, 14 April 1771: I designed to preach abroad; but the storm drove us into the house. This house was built and given, with the ground on which it stands, by a single gentleman. In Cork, one person, Mr. Thomas Janes, gave between three and four hundred pounds towards the preaching-house. Towards that in Dublin Mr. Lunel gave four hundred. I know no such benefactors among the Methodists in England.

Monday, 15 April 1771: I rode to Birr, through much hail and snow, driven in our face by a furious wind. So was the hail the next day, as we rode to Tullamore. Here likewise I lamented the want of zeal. So the Society here also is no larger than it was two years ago.

On the following days I preached at Cooley-Lough, Mountmelick, and Portarlington.

Wesley then made for Kilkenny, where the new preaching house was finished. He departed for England in late July of that year.

1773

On 26th March 1773, Wesley landed at Dun Laoghaire, and having been forbidden by his physician to ride, brought with him for the first time his chaise, which, however, he was deprived of the opportunity of using, as the commissioners of customs would not permit it to be landed. His journal tells us that the sailing was rough; at one stage the ship ran on a sand-bank and the passengers had to go ashore again. When they did actually start out, it took them three days to reach Holyhead (having embarked at Liverpool) and there were "strong gales and a rolling sea."

In Dublin Wesley examined the Society, and found it somewhat lessened in numbers. Having preached at Tyrrell's Pass, Mullingar and Longford, he came to Athlone, where a whole army of soldiers, with their officers, were present at the service.

Monday 5 April 1773: Having hired such a chaise as I could, I drove to Edinderry.

Tuesday 6 April 1773: I went on to Tyrrell's Pass.

Thursday 8 April 1773: I preached in the Court-house in Molingar in the morning, and in that at Longford in the evening, and again at eight in the morning, being Good Friday; and then went on to Athlone. I believe all the officers, with a whole army of soldiers, were present in the evening; so were most of them the next. I would fain have preached abroad on Easter-day but the rain would not permit. H