HISTORY OF METHODISM IN IRELAND. VOL. IIL MODEEN DEVELOPMENT. C. H. CROOKSHANK, M.A., Author of " A Method-hst Pioneer," and " Memorable Women of Irish Methodism in the last Ct-ntwij," LONDON : T. WOOLMEE, 2, CASTLE STREET, CITY ROAD, AND 66, PATERNOSTER ROW, E.G. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I.— 1820. PiSE Two branches of Methodism. The work in the counties of Mayo and Wexford Labours of Ouseley. Retributive providence. A Dublin Methodist. Fer managh. Belfast. Dromore. Armagh. Co. Down. The Conferences- Chapel Fund Committee appointed. Sound and homely advice. Co. Down. Athlone. Roscommon. John Summerfield. Bamdon — defeat of oppo nents of the Bible. ... I.I5 CHAPTER II.-1821. The Catholic Emancipation Act. Proposed union with the New Connexion. An encounter with the devil. Co. Antrim. Rowdies discomfited. New chapels in Bandon, and in Abbey street. Reports from mission station?. An English minister's impressions of Ireland. The Conferences. Sympathy of the British Conference. Sligo. Change in hour of morning service. Hamilton's Bawn. Thomas T. N. Hull. Co. Wexford. Ouseley and Feely. Conversion, labours, and end of Philip the prophet. . . 16-33 CHAPTER m.— 1822. Conciliation and its effects. Co. Wexford. Revival in Bandon. The general missionaries. The Gonnexioual debt. Origin of the August Distiict meeting. Bandon chapel and schools. The Primitive Conference. The Magazine. The Wesleyan Conference. Public services. £600' nearly lost. A brand plucked out of the fire. Two preachers lost and found. Enniskillen circuit. Co. Down. Co. Wexford. The general missionaries. Co. Cork — Cork, Bandon, and Skibbereen 34-52 CHAPTER IV.— 1823. Letter of Dr. Clarke. Co. Wexford. Cork. Eillaloe. The general mission. Rathmullan mission. Labours of the Primitive Wesleyans. Cookstown chapel. Tour of Dr. Clarke. Wesleyan Conference. Ordination service. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Increase of Wesleyan missionaries, and appointment of a general superintendent. Queen's county. Meeting of Bible Society in Sligo. Monaghan and Aughnacloy circuit. Revival at Ballynaeoy. Labours of the Primitive Wesleyans. .... 53-65 IV CONTENTS. CHAPTER v.— 1824. PAGE Death of three ministers. Queen's county. Monaghan. Efforts to aiTest intemperance, etc. Connexional debt. Wesleyan Conference. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. New Coimexion Home Missions. Bandon. Con version of James H. Swanton. Athy. Boyle and Killashandra circuit. Ballymena mission. Labours of the Primitive Wesleyans. Portstewart chapel. Visit of Rev. George Morley. Visit to a quarry and its results. Public discussions on the right of the laity to read the Scriptures. Labours and opponents of Ouseley 66-76 CHAPTER VI.— 1825. The general missionary. Revival at Luigan — the introduction of Primitive Wesleyanism. Nenagh. Revival on the Newtownstewart circuit. Skull chapel. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Visit of Rev. R. Waddy. Wesleyan Conference in Cork — the lovefeast. Bandon. W. P. Appelbe. Mountrath circuit. Castlereagh chapel. Newtownstewart circuit. Archi bald M'Elwain. Coleraine — an infidel club broken up — Sabbath desecra tion stopped. Ballymena mission. The general missionaries. Warings- town. Banbridge. A Young Men's Association. Manorhamilton. 77-88 CHAPTER VII.-1826. Summerhill chapel. Death of Bennett Dugdale. Revival on the Maguires- bridge circuit. Writings of Ouseley — their success. Conversion and early labours of Robert Huston. Ballinasloe chapel. BaUymacarret chapel. Ballymena mission. Billy chapel. Daily schools. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference — the Pastoral Address. Financial help from the British Conference. The debt. Carlow circuit. Public discussions with Romanists. The general missionary. Miss Lutton at Newcastle. BushmUls chapel. Bellaghy chapel. Luxgan chapel. Ennis killen chapel. Labours of the Primitive Wesleyans. . . . 89-101 CHAPTER VIII.- 1827. Wniiam Feckman — his labours— a backslider reclaimed — personal fidelity. Co. Limerick. Origin of the annual Missionary Deputation. Newcastle chapel. Revival at Maguiresbridge — at Charlemont. Boyle and Ros common. Oldcastle. First Primitive Wesleyan missionary meeting in Cork. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference in Belfast —public services. Founding of a Presbyterian church at BaUymacarret. Mr. and Mrs. James Boyd. Larne chapel. Hammonds' Marsh chapel. Death of Johu Noble. The Oavan mission. Magherafelt mission. Fossey Tackaberry in Dublin. Feckman in Co. Limerick. T. T. N. Hull on the Wexford circuit. The New Connexion. Labours of the Primitive Wes leyans on the Lisbm-n and Cookstown missions, and on the Newtown stewart circuit 102-15 CHAPTER IX.— 1828. Public discussions in Patrick street chapel, Cork, and in Omagh. Life and death of a convert from Popery. Death of a promising yoimg minister. f CONTENTS. V PA&E Eosscarbery mission. A retributive providence; Conversion of Eobert Wallace. Co. Donegal. Cavan Primitive Wesleyan chapol. Eevivals at Maguiresbridge and Tanderagee. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wes leyan Conference. Connexional debt paid. Mountrath circuit — conver sion of Dr. Power. New chapels at Hyde Park, Ballyclare, Island Magee, and Moira. Ardmore. Outrage on a chapel. Revival on the Bandon circuit. Reports from Primitive Wesleyan missionaries and preachers. 116-27 CHAPTER X.— 1829. Catholic Emancipation. Ouseley's proposal. The New Connexion. Down mission. Revival at Mallow. Presentation to Mr. Waugh. Richmond chapel. Drogheda circuit. The work in Belfast. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference in Cork. Belfast. The Temperance reformation — ^its origin — first meeting in Belfast. Newtownbarry circuit — a homely experience — conversion of Benjamin Bayly — of an old lady. Drogheda circuit. Antrim. Romish intolerance at Armagh. Eeports from Primitive Wesleyan mission stations. " A fulish auld Methody body." Inch. . . . ... 128-41 CHAPTER XI.— 1830. New Primitive Wesleyan chapels. Revival on the Charlemont circuit. Death of Mr. Shillington. Controversial writings of Ouseley — persecution and prophecy. Calvinistic controversy. Miss Lutton in Dublin. Visit of Dr. Clarke. A wild and unruly rabble subdued. London Missionary Annivei-sary. Reports from mission stations. Primitive Wesleyan Con ference. Wesleyan Conference — the Temperance movement— the Book- room— a slave redeemed. Eingsend chapel. The New Connexion. Accident to Ouseley. Eevival on the Newtownbarry circuit. Conversion of George Grant. Methodism introduced into Killorglin. The Donegal mission. Ballynure. Lisburn. 142-55 CHAPTER XII.— 1831. Schools established by Dr. Clarke. Miss Lutton at Bushmills. Catholicity of a rector. Lissacaha chapel. Mission schools. Temperance movement. Banbridge Primitive Wesleyan chapel. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference. Conversion and early labours of Robert Hewitt. Labours of Ouseley. The preacher and the priest. Methodist co-opera tion. Methodism introduced into Whitegate. Ee - introduced into Aughrim. Hospitality of a Romanist. The daily schools. National Education. . ." .... • 156-65 CHAPTER XIII.— 1832. Sligo chapel. Testimony of a clergyman. Tour of Ouseley. Revivals at KiUashandra— Tanderagee— Manorhamilton— Enniskillen, and other cir cuits. Primitive Methodism introduced. Dr. Clarke's last visit. Primi tive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference. The cholera— its progress— Cork— Stonyford— Westport— spiritual results— death of two preachers. F. Tackaberry in Bandon. E. Huston in Carlow— revival— VI CONTENTS. PASB extends to the Wexford circuit. Fidelity and its reward. MarkethiU— a would-be Methodist and his geese. Revivals at Enniskillen, Manor hamilton, Cavan, and Clones. F. Fitzgerald. .... 166-81 CHAPTER XIV.— 1833. The Whitefeet. Revival in Bandon. Skibbereen chapel. Attempt on the life of Ouseley. Conversion of Joseph W. M'Kay. Di. Clarke's schools. The New Connexion. Providentia] deliverance. Belfast. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference — " A slice to spare." The New Connexion. Newtownlimavady. Youghal chapel. First Temper ance Society in Co. Armagh. Labours of Ouseley. Employment df Scripture readers. Dublin Methodism — the chapels — social intercourse. Rev. T. Waugh — a prayer short and to the point. Eev. W. Eeilly-^ready wit. Eev. T. T. N. Hull. Eev. E. Huston — two supernumeraries. Happy John — a plain and effectual prayer 182-96 CHAPTER XV.— 1834. Eevival in Bandon. Public discussion at Skull. Eevival at New Eoss. Co. Down. Eeport of Eev. Elijah Hoole. Total abstinence — Judge Crampton. Experience of Mrs. Crampton. Eevival on the Irvinestown circuit. Ee ports of Wesleyan missionaries. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wes leyan Conference. Testimony of the British Conference. Ouseley and Calvinism. Eevival in Westport — conversion of William Arthur. Eevival on the Ballina circuit — at Hyde Park. Introduction of Methodism into EaUynure, and into Crumlin. Maguiresbridge circuit. Brown street chapel 197-210 CHAPTER XVI.— 1835. The New Connexion. Death of Wm. Black. Revival at Ballynacoy. Minis terial support. Controversy at Garvagh. BaUymacarret Primitive chapel. Work of Rev. Adam Averell. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference in Belfast. Address to the British Conference. Calvinistic controversy at Drogheda. Ouseley's tact. Bandon — Romans vii. 18 — country appointments — a short and ready reply. Perbane chapel. Captain Vicars. A remarkable case of impression. Templemore chapel. Londonderry chapel. Armagh chapel — a conscientious barber — an unguarded prayer and its consequences— a ready reply — collapse of a counsellor. MarkethiU chapel — a merciful providence. Primitive Wes leyan chapel at Dromara— at Dundalk — Langrish Place. The Warrenites. Death of the Hon. Miss Sophia Ward 211-28 CHAPTER XVII.— 1836. Kilkenny mission— Clonmel— Co. Wicklow— Sligo— Newry — Dromara Lis burn and Antrim— Augnacloy. Kingstown and Wexford chapels. Rev. Wm. Shaw in Wexford. Rev. T. Lessey in Bandon. Dublin breakfast meeting. Carrickmacross. Primitive Wesleyan Conference— presentation to Kev. A. Averell. Wesleyan Conference. Conversion of Wallace M'MuUen. Tanderagee circuit. Testimony of Bev. W. 0. Croggon. The New Connexion. Kilkenny mission. Boyle chapel. Conversion aud early labours of Thomas C. Maguire— a brave boy — perseverance rewarded. Banbridge mission. Lisburn and TriUick Primitive Wesleyan chapels. 229-42 CONTENTS. VU CHAPTER XVIII.— 1837. PAGE Labours of Ouseley. Dunmanway chapel. Parish of Desert. Sligo district meeting. Frederick street chapel. Tanderagee Primitive chapel. Death of T. R. Guest. Primitive Conference. Wesleyan Conference — imposi tion of hands. Address to the British Conference — an emancipated slave, and a converted Indian. Hibernian missionary meeting. The New Con nexion. Revival at Moira. Reilly, Tackaberry and Grant in Belfast — singular premonition. Eevival on the Derry circuit. Ballyshannon and Pettigo. Early labours of J. W. M'Kay. Letter of William Hamilton. Gideon Ouseley, Chapel at Derrygonnelly. T. C. Maguire at Turlough — a wake . . . . 243-59 CHAPTER XIX.— 1838. The Primitive Wasleyans. First public breakfast and earliest Methodist funeral service at Bandon. Kilkenny and Drumkeeran chapels. Bally shannon and Pettigo circuit. Barnabas Shaw and James Dixon. Revival at Lisleen. Visit of Miss Lutton to TuUamore and Moira. Wesley Place chapel. The New Connexion. The Primitive Methodists. The Primitive Wesleyans on the Ballyshannon circuit. The Conferences. Kahke- quomaby. An Irish judge. Bandon. Ouseley. Conversion of Frederick EUiott, and consequent revival. R. Huston in Dundalk. Magherafelt circuit. Touching account of a blind girl. Holywood. . . 260-71 CHAPTER XX.— 1839. Terrible storm. Final labours and death of Ouseley. Conversion of WiUiam Butler, and revival at Wexford. Wesleyan Centenary movement— new Auxiliary Fund. Primitive Wesleyans and the Centenaiy. Dromore and Springfield chapels. Willowvale. Belfast. Wesleyan Conference - marked exercise of faith. Primitive Conference. Revivals at TuUamore, the Eoscrea circuit, Bandon, and SUgo. Galway chapel. O'ConneU and the Wesleyans. Dungannon. Primitive Wesleyans — revivals. Belfast. Marked answer to prayer. ... ... 272-87 CHAPTER XXI.— 1840. Temperance work- Bandon— Waterford. Conversion of Thomas M'CuUagh. A missionary mistaken for a priest. Tour and addresses of the Yorkshire farmer. Eevivals at Aughrim and at Belfast. Donegal place chapel. Wesleyan Conference. Primitive Conference. The work in Dubhn- Gravel walk chapel rebuilt. Wm. P. Appelbe in Limerick. Gillman and Tackaberry in Cork. E. M. Banks at Tralee. Gibson M'MiUeu. ReiUy and M'Kay at Portsidown. Meaning of "the turf." J.Armstrong and the parish priest. New Primitive Wesleyan chapels. . . . 288-301 CHAPTER XXII.— 1841. Revival on the Charlemont circuit. CootehUl chapel. S. Larminie in Youghal. Belfast divided into two circuits. Bushmills and Newry chapels. First missionary breakfast at Bandon. Sad end of emigrants from Cork. London Missionary Aunivereary. The New Connexion. Wesleyan Con ference. Primitive Conference. Donegal place chapel opened. Death vill CONTENTS. PAGE of Dr. D'Olier. Riots in Cork— a little boy crossing the Jordan. Revival at Galway — a recipe for the fear of death. J. Armstrong. Marked answer to prayer. James Caughey in Dublin, Another remarkable instance of the power of prayer — a notable conversion. .... 302-16 CHAPTER XXIII.— 1842. James Caughey in Limerick, and in Cork. BaUyfaruan. Kilkenny mission. Foundation stone laid of the Centenary chapel. Selling tickets for religious services. Upper Falls. John White's conversion and early labours. Queen's county mission. Castlecaulfield chapel. Wesleyan Conference. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Warrenpoint and Gleds- town chapels, James Caughey in Bandon — a strange dream. Superstition at Youghal. Mallow, William Reilly at Watei'ford. The barony of Leyny, Children of soldiers marched to chapel 317-30 CHAPTER XXIV.— 1843. Hostility of the Established Church, Death of William Curry. Revival ou the Enniskillen, Clones, and Maguiresbridge circuits. Conversion of Charles L, Grant. Awakening at BallinamaUard. Death of John Hadden. Hardwicke street premises. Opening of the Centenary chapel. Wesleyan Conference. Primitive Conference, S. Larminie in Youghal. Revivals at Clones and Derrygonnelly. Primitive Wesleyan chapel, Portadown, Clones, Belfast. Ligoniel chapel. Conversion and labours of Robert CoUier, Clerical opposition in Co, Sligo. , . , 331-43 CHAPTER XXV.— 1844. The Connexional school. The chapel and work at Thurles. Labours of the Primitive Wesleyans — Co. Wicklow— Youghal — Kinsale — Ballyconnell Clones — Kirlish — Lurgau — Lisburn — Tanderagee— Death of J. G. Wake- ham. Primitive Wesleyan Conference, Wesleyan Conference. Temper ance work. Opposition and sympathy in Cork. Roscommon Primitive chapel. Revival at Charlemont. ... ... 344-54 CHAPTER XXVI.— 1845. The Maynooth grant. The Queen's Colleges. Primary education. Father Tom and Wesley's hymns, William Reilly in Cork. A sermon abruptiy ended. R, G, Gather in Belfast, Revival on the Tanderagee circuit. Stradbally and Maghera Primitive Wesleyan chapels. Primitive Wes leyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference. Origin and progress of Methodism at Doagh, The Killashandra circuit. Eevival in Bandon. Sad and admonitory incident. French Church street and Templemore chapels. Eeports from Primitive Wesleyan missionaries, . , 355-64 CHAPTER XXVII,— 1846. The Evangelical AUiance, Maiden speech of William Crook, jun. James Johnson of CrumUn. Eevival at Charlemont, Primitive Wesleyan Con ference. Wesleyan Conference, Eevival of the general mission— labours of the missionaries, Bandon circuit. Disastrous unfaithfulness. Conver sion and labours of James Donnelly, Ballynure chapel, Donegal square ^^^P^^ 365-72 CONTENTS. IX CHAPTER XXVIII.— 1847. PAGE The famine — pestUeuce — Government relief — private enterprise— self-sacrifices — emigration — effects. The general missionaries, Eevival at Cavan. Opening of Donegal square chapel, Wesleyan Conference, Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Eevival in Belfast North. Primitive Wesleyan chapels at Portadown and TuUyroan. The mother of Methodism in KUly- man .... . , 378-82 CHAPTER XXIX. -1848. Reports of D. D. Heather, and several of the Primitive Wesleyan missionaries. Bible buming at Newmarket. Eeports from Wesleyan missionaries — in the south — the west — the north, Wesleyan Conference — Address to the British Conference — Methodist loyalty. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Sympathy of the British Conference. MuUingar — a public house turned iuto a place of prayer — conversion of a physician. District missionaries. Enniskillen. Eeports of Primitive Wesleyan missionaries. . , 383-93 CHAPTER XXX,— 1849. Church government. Wesley's relation to the Conference — the power of the Conference. Reform agitation in England — in Ireland — answer to prayer. Two condemned murderers won for Christ. Bandon. Wesleyan Con ference in Cork, Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Appointment of a general missionary. Revivals at Mohill, Roscommon, and Lowtherstown, Buming and rebuilding of Donegal square chapel. Calvinistic contro versy. The cholera. SUgo. Death of James Field, Introduction of Methodism into China. . . 394-405 CHAPTER XXXI.— 1850. Eevival on the Roscommon mission. The Primitive Wesleyan general mis sionary. Awakening on the Lowtherstown circuit. District missionary deputation. Conversion of WilUam H. Quarry. The Eeform agitation. Declaration by ministers, Wesleyan Conference. Primitive Wesleyan Conference, William Eeilly on the Carlow circuit. Eemarkable recovery from insanity. FuU consecration and its result. Killashandra circuit. The Primitive Wesleyans, Financial help from Scotland. , 406-15 CHAPTER XXXII.— 1851. Success of the daily schools. Sligo, Revival at Bandon. Narrow escape of D, D. Heather, Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference in Belfast — appointment of a general missionary — address presented to the President, New Connexion revival. Labours of the general mis sionary, Randalstown chapel. Debt paid off from Abbey street chapel. Reports from Primitive Wesleyan missionaries and schoolmasters- — from Mr. Griffin. . . 416-25 CHAPTER XXXIII.— 1852. Recognition of the rights of Methodist soldiers. Female Orphan School, DubUn. Castleblayney. Persecution at MarkethiU. Discord at Ban- X CONTENTS. PAGE bridge, Thomas Bennett and Clonakilty, The general missionary. Re ports fi-om Primitive Wesleyan missionaries— from Wesleyan missionaries. Wesleyan Conference. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. The general missionary. Gibson M'MiUen at Westport, and James Henry ^ in Connemara. The Boyle circuit. Downpatrick, Increased practical sympathy from Scotland and England, Death of George Chapman. 426-36 CHAPTER XXXIV.— 1853. Agnes street chapel. Systematic Beneficence, Gold and the Gospel, John Walker at Nenagh. Eeports from Wesleyan missionaries— the general missionary, Wesleyan Conference in Cork. Circuit Aid and Extension Fund— laymen admitted to the Committee of the Contingent Fund, Gift to the British Conference. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. A Metho dist martyr. Visit of the hundred ministers. Kilkee chapel — conversion of a Eomanist policeman. Clifden. Gibson M'MiUen assaulted. Eeport of Samuel Young — his narrow escape. . 437-47 CHAPTER XXXV.— 1854. Falls road chapel. Primitive Wesleyans in Belfast. Belleek chapel. In creased ministerial support. Report of Mr. Young. Effects of the visit of the hundred ministers. Samuel Johnston at KUlala. Wesleyan Con ference. The Education question — education of ministers' children. Primitive Wesleyan Conference — D. D. Heather sent as a deputation to America. Work of James Oliver. Lowtherstown circuit. Eathmines and Coleraine chapels and residences. . . . . 448-57 CHAPTER XXXVI.— 1855. Lecture by the Eev. William Arthur, A.M. Reports from the Wesleyan missionaries — in south — west — north. Wesleyan Conference in BeUast, Increased ministerial support — appointment of two general missionaries. Fund for the increase of Wesleyan Agency in Ireland — deputation to America. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. The general missionaries — right to conduct open-air services. Co. Cavan — Tyrone — Derry — Bandon. Jubilee of Patrick street chapel. Conversion of William Brown. Bible buming at Kingstown, Revivals in Fermanagh, Eobert Crook in Belfast North, Pamphlets of John Hughes, John S. M'Dade at Tan deragee — conversion of a poor inebriate — of a young man who was said to have no sin. . , , . , , 458-69 CHAPTER XXXVII.— 1856. William M. Punshon — first visit to Belfast — first lecture — preaches in DubUn. Conversion and subsequent career of Charles C. Eorke. The general mission. Co. Donegal. Eevival on the Charlemont circuit. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Conference. Deputation to America, The Boyle circuit. The general missionary. Eevival on the Lowthers town circuit. Belfast South — Holywood. Eevival at Larne. Eobert 6. Gather in Coleraine. Eeports from circuits and missions of the Primitive Wesleyan Society— Longford— Maguiresbridge— Lowtherstown— Lurgau, 470-81 CONTENTS. XI CHAPTER XXXVIII.— 1857, PAGS The general mission. Death of Mrs. Whittaker. Eeports of Wesleyan missionaries — Lucan aud Trim — Connemara — Donegal — general mission. Eevival on the Maguiresbridge circuit. Glackadrumman school-house. Primitive Wesleyan Conference, Wesleyan Conference in Cork, Address to the British Conference. Improved ministerial support. Co. Donegal, Portadown circuit. The general mission — Waterford — Coleraine, Eeports of the Primitive Wesleyans — Cork — Maguiresbridge, Street preaching in Belfast. ... . 482-93 CHAPTER XXXIX.— 1858. Eevival on the Springfield circuit — iu Cavan. Impressions of au English minister — Portadown — the work in general. Eeports of Wesleyan missionaries. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Wesleyan Methodist Conference. Eevival iu Portadown, KUlala mission. Opposition at CoUooney — a site secured — the chapel built — the opening service — providential deUverance — fideUty to Methodism — a retributive providence. The Donegal mission. The Primitive Wesleyans in Belfast. Eevival on the Tanderagee circuit. • • • 494-504 CHAPTER XL.— 1859. The great revival— its origin— its extension— Ballymena— BaUymoney and Coleraine— Newtownlimavady— Londonderry — BaUyclare — Ballynure— Hyde Park— Belfast. Wesleyan Conference— the Contingent Fund- public services. Primitive Wesleyan Conference. Visit of Dr. and Mrs. Palmer. The revival — Lisburn — Dromore — Donaghadee and New- townards— Luigan— Portadown— Armagh— Moy— Aughnacloy— Clones— CootehiU — Ballyjamesduff — Cavan — Maguiresbridge — Enniskillen — Pettigo — Ballyshannon — Fintona — Omagh — Donegal. The Irish Mvan^elist, The work done by Irish Methodism— the progress made— the fruit in other lands— the future. • 505-26 Index to Persons and Places. • 527-44 HISTORY OF METHODISM. CHAPTEE I. 1820. ETHODISM in Ireland must now be considered as consisting of two distinct organizations, under the guidance and direction respectively of the Wesleyan Methodist and Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Con ferences. Each of these associations accepted the same system of Christian doctrine, engaged in the same hallowed work, and largely maintained the same discipline ; yet one afforded facilities for the exercise of all the functions of a Church, and placed legislation in the hands of the ministers alone, •while the other avowed itself to be an auxiliary to the churches, aud admitted the laity to an equal share of power with the preachers. Although the separation was complete, the contention connected with it continued, each party asserting that it followed in the steps of Wesley, and adhered to the original principles of Methodism. Numerous addresses were delivered and pamphlets issued, with regard to this controversy, into the details of which it is unnecessary to enter. A final and fruitless effort was also made in 1820 to unite once more the two bodies. Joseph Butterworth, Esq., visited Ireland expressly for this purpose, and, having stated his object to the Eev. Adam Averell, was told that it was impossible, as on the one side the measure which occasioned the division would not be relinquished, and on the other there was not less determination to abide by what were considered the principles of original Methodism. Mr. Butterworth then suggested a middle course, observing that if the administration of the ordinances were VOL. III. •'• 2 HISTORY OF METHODISM. restricted to the circuits to which they had been already granted, and that there should be no extension of the grant to other circuits, it ought to meet the views of all parties. Mr. Averell replied that this proposal would not be agreeable to either party, and that even if both sides were disposed to agree to its adoption, it was objectionable; for preachers who were favourable to the measure, and had administered the sacraments, when appointed to circuits to which this privilege had not been granted, would agitate the question, and there would be no end of disputation.* Thus the attempt to effect a union had to be abandoned for about half a century. Turning our attention, however, to the important work, which aimed more directly at the spread of Scriptural holiness through the land, we find it in active operation and crowned with abundant blessing. Towards the end of 1819, and the beginning of 1820, through the Divine blessing on the labours of the Primitive Wesleyan preachers, a gracious awakening took place in the county of Mayo, during which many were brought to the know ledge of Christ, and several new preaching places obtained. One of the latter was at Knappagh, where a class of fifteen or twenty members was formed ; and another was at Westport, where a school house was granted for the services. On Mr. Joseph M'Cormick's first visit to this town, he called to see a Mrs. Larminie, who had joined the Society, and on her son, Samuelj learning that a service was about to be held, he said to the preacher, " You must not go alone, or certainly your brains will be dashed out; but I know all the parties, and will accompany you." The only annoyance received proved to be from a few volleys of stones, which did not do much harm. But under the sermon preached that night Samuel was convinced of sin, and within a fortnight enabled to rejoice in the Lord his Saviour. Soon the young convert was appointed to meet the class at Knappagh, and thus commenced a career of great and extensive usefulness.! The first Sunday school in Wexford was commenced in 1818 in the Mayor's court, or court of conscience, in Bull ring and amongst the scholars was Eobert Jacob Meyer, then a lad eight ' Memoir of A. Averell," p. 379. * u t Primitive Wesleyan, Methodist Magazine, 1864, p. 25. CHAPTEE L — 1820. 3 years old.* It was, however, but an experiment, and showed the willingness of parents to send their children for religious instruc tion on the Lord's day. On the erection of premises, therefore, in Allen street, for parochial day schools, the Sabbath school was removed thither. The Methodists were now roused to action, and soon had a large and prosperous school, in their chapel. Much of this success was no doubt owing to the efficiency and zeal of the superintendent, Mr. Moses Eowe.f On the Newtownbarry mission Charles Graham reports fresh trophies won from Popery for Christ, as well as the stability of previous converts. One was almost persuaded to publicly renounce Eomanism, a second to escape persecution prepared to leave for America, a third was repudiated by the priest, and a fourth adorned the doctrine of the Lord his Saviour. Not only was the devoted missionary cheered by thus seeing fruit to his own labours, but also by the manifest blessing attending the efforts of John Feely and a young man from Mountrath, named Williani Guard, who was on the list of reserve. The former writes that when in Athy they met two Eoman Catholic young men who inquired the way to Zion ; one determined never again to go to mass, and the other had all his doubts removed and was enabled to rejoice in the God of his salvation.^ Gideon Ouseley, who had been appointed a general missionary, continued his eamest and self-^denying labours notwithstanding numerous and severe hardships. In a tour of fifty-two days through Munster, Connaught, and Ulster, he travelled eight hundred miles. On one occasion, in the county of Limerick, having taken his stand near a butcher's stall, the stones began to fly, and some of them struck the servant of God, cutting him severely, and compelling him to retire to the house where he lodged. Having washed off the blood, he returned to the same place and resumed the service, but only to meet with a similar reception. The ringleader of the rioters then exclaimed, " Let us not kill him," and seizing a pig, held it by the tail, while its screams were so loud as to drown the voice of the preacher. At length the poor animal became exhausted ; then Ouseley began » Son of Mr. Eudolphus Meyer, vide ii., p. 233. f Unpublished autobiographical sketch of Eev, E. J. Meyer, I The Apostle of Kerry, pp. 208-10. 4 HISTOEY OF METHODISM. again, and, suddenly stopping, called the butcher to him and said, " •'^^y good man, the Lord will extort a cry from you as loud as that of the pig." In a few minutes the man fell to the ground, and uttered a most unearthly scream, which continued for a con siderable time. All present thought he was possessed with an evil spirit, and several strove to raise him, but could not. The priest was then sent for, and whip in hand, laid on with all his might, but to no purpose. The wretched man continued to roar aloud until exhausted, and was then dragged into his own house. None afterwards would venture to go near him or purchase at his stall, so he had to remove to another part of the country, where both he himself and his family became Protestants.* It was probably during one of these tours of the devoted evangelist that the following scene occurred : — " Let me picture him in the streets of Kilrush," says the Eev. William Gorman, " with my uncle's head for an improvised reading desk, and his body a shield against possible stones ; see him next day taken across the lordly Shannon, seven miles to Tarbert, in the same friend's boat, and when the keel touches the beach leaping out, falling on his knees on the shingle, and saying, ' I take Tarbert in the name of the Lord Jesus.' And then, singing a hymn, he marches towards the town, and some of the Enniskillen dragoons, stationed in the fort, come out at the sound of the song, and escort him to the spot where he speaks as he loved to do of ' the disease and the cure.' " One evening in March, a little before sunset, Ouseley arrived at Ballyjamesduff, took his stand in the street and began to preach. Soon almost all the inhabitants of the town surrounded him ke continued his discourse for some time, and many Eomanists, taking advantage of the shades of evening, came to hear, and listened with devout attention. He then published for a service in the chapel to which numbers of the Catholics requested to be admitted and the Lord was present in blessing. Ouseley says, " It was a most delightful and solemn season. Surely the Master of assemblies was there to melt down obdurate hearts, as was evident from the copious tears which silently flowed from many eves " On one occasion this devoted missionary preached in the market * Arthur's " Life of Ouseley," p. 233. CHAPTEE 1. — 1820. 5 of Lurgan to a great multitude of both Protestants and Eoman Catholics, who seemed " as if they were fastened to the ground, and, being bathed in tears, sobbed and cried and prayed together, as of one heart and soul." Ouseley, however, did not soon get over the effects of a cold caught in connection with this service, and was therefore obliged to retire to the sea shore to try bathing as a means of regaining health. Dunleary was chosen as the place of his temporary retreat ; but even here, when rest was of great importance, he could not remain without doing something for his Master. He preached four times each week, witnessed some signal conversions, and formed a class of fourteen members, whom he committed to the care of the superintendent of the Dublin circuit. Eesuming his general labours, he preached in Irish in the open air at Trim, to people who appeared electrified, and again in the court house, where many Eomanists and almost all the Protestant inhabitants assembled to hear. Continuing his eamest efforts through the country, he had the satisfaction of seeing many sinners awakened and brought to a knowledge of the Saviour. " Thank God," he writes, " there is a good work going on in several parts, in spite of every opposition, in our bigoted and benighted land."* At this period a Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association was formed in the metropolis, and among its leading member^ were Claudius Byrne, who subsequently entered the itinerancy, and Abraham Mason. The meetings were held weekly, in White- friar street chapel, and proved a means of much advantage. One of the Methodists in the city was a citizen named Eichard Haughton, who had been eleven years a member of the Society. He was poor in this world's goods, but rich in faith and the honoured instrument of leading many to Christ. Once, on inviting to the class in which he met a number of boys, the youngest, an orphan lad of ten years of age, was much impressed with the kindness of the good man, accepted the invitation, and thus received his first religious impressions. That youth was Samuel M'Comas,t who for many years subsequently occupied a * Eeilly's " Memorial," pp. 237-39 . f A son of Mr. Thomas M'Comas, a native of Drnmsna, who was for several years a devoted and useful leader in Dublin. He was a faithful visitor of the sick, especially those in the Lock and other hospitals, and died in peace about the year 1811. 6- HISTOEY OF METHODISM. prominent position in the Dublin Society. Eichard was a fine specimen of an old Methodist, humble, simple-minded, and very zealous, with high moral principle, albeit he was a little peculiar. As long as he was able to ascend the stairs he attended class, and always carried an old umbrella, which in the narrative of his religious experience he would strike on the floor, exclaiming, " Firm footing. Christ is precious," and then repeat the verse of the hymn beginning, "Now I have found the ground wherein." One morning when his leader said, " Eichard, how does your soul prosper?" he replied, "A hard week. I have been like a man rowing a boat against the stream ; had I not been able, by God's help, to use both hands and two oars, I would have been carried back instead of forward." He greatly loved the ministers and the ministry of the Word, and generally would say of the last sermon he heard it was the best. He appeared to go to the house of God with a good spiritual appetite, and never went away disappointed. Having a great dislike to evil speaking, on one occasion he was much grieved by a person who made certain charges against a professing Christian, and said somewhat sharply, " Have you nothing good to tell me ? Why, that poor fellow is only going to school, and when he has finished his education as a Christian he will make none of these mistakes." Haughton was also a most liberal man, often in cases of distress giving away his last shilling.* Mr. George Burrows was stationed on the Irvinestown circuit, and on applying for a subscription to Captain John Irvine, who then resided at Gublusk, and had been high sheriff of Fermanagh in the previous year, he not only complied with the request, but also invited the itinerant to return and preach in an adjoining school house. This led to the formation of a society here, of which Captain Irvine was a member, and in all the concerns of which he took a lively interest. About twelve years afterwards he erected at Eockfield a neat Wesleyan chapel, which continued to be used by the Society until after his death, when it was taken out of their hands, as unfortunately no lease had been made or was forthcoming. In Belfast the Primitive Wesleyans held their services in a large room, part of the premises of Mr. William Campbell, until * Irish Ecangelist, 1860, pp, 79, 80. CHAPTER I.— 1820. 7 they succeeded in erecting a preaching house in Academy street, which was opened this year by the Eev. Adam Averell. This was the fourth Methodist chapel built in this town. A Sunday school was established on April 30th, in Donegal square chapel. It met from seven till nine in the morning, and from three till five in the afternoon. The superintendent was Mr. Samuel Tucker,* and the secretary Mr. Alexander Moncrief. There were seventy-four children present on the first morning, and one hundred and forty-two in the afternoon. In four weeks the numbers rose to four hundred. Daniel Macafee, to whom reference has been made, resided in the neighbourhood of Belfast. Two years previously he had pub lished " An Essay on the Primeval State and Fall of Ma,n ; " and now he brought out " A Eational and Scriptural Investigation of the Doctrines of Original Sin, Absolute Predestination, and the Foreknowledge of God," being a series of letters addressed to the Eev. John Paul,t in reply to a portion of his " Defence of Creeds and Confessions." These writings of Macafee display not only his thorough mastery of the Calvinistic controversy, but also those keen and vigorous mental powers for which as an expounder and defender of Divine truth he subsequently became so remarkable. At Dromore, John Eoss, deeply impressed with the needs be for more suitable premises for the worship of God, had set to work, secured a site, collected subscriptions, and at length, on the quarterly love feast day of September, 1815, had the satisfaction of seeing the chapel opened for Divine worship. Although the collection was only £1 lis. 6d., the congregation was so large that many could not get admission. The building was a plain struc ture, with forms and a desk ; and when funds were forthcoming pews and a pulpit were added. The Eev. William Kidd preached the re-opening sermon, having selected for his text, " And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose." The Society soon received valuable additions to its member ship, including William and Eichard Derry, who proved pious and useful leaders ; John Saul, who entered the itinerancy in 1826, and continued to labour actively and faithfully for forty-two years ; *- A grandson of William Tucker, one of the early Methodist itinerants. f A minister of the Eeformed Presbyterian Church. 8 HISTOEY OF METHODISM. Eobert Frazer, previously a Unitarian, but subsequently for many years an able local preacher and a liberal supporter of Methodism ; Henry Price, who entered the ministry in 1823, a man of clear and powerful intellect, transparent sincerity, deep humility, and lofty piety ; George Jamison, who had been a Presbyterian, and who, shortly after the conversion of his wife, sought and found the blessing of pardon, and for nearly forty years was an exemplary Christian and useful leader ; Thomas Stevenson, " an IsraeUte indeed," who for more than twenty years with fidelity and accept ance sustained the offices of leader and local preacher; Eobert HiU Lindsay, of Ashfield, who entered the itinerancy in 1827, and laboured with acceptance and success for thirty-six years; and Samuel Cowdy, who began to travel in 1832, and for more than five-and-twenty years preached the Gospel with soul-converting power in several of the most laborious stations in Ireland. One Sunday Mr. Eoss preached a sermon to females, and amongst those present was Esther Craig,* of Ballynaris, who up to that day had been a mere formalist, but was then awakened to a sense of her true condition, and led to seek the Lord until she found Him. She had been very fond of dress, but on her conversion laid aside all her ornaments, and became exceedingly plain in her attire. However, one day Mr. Eoss met her, and said, " Now, Esther, take care lest there be as much pride under your ribbonless bonnet as under many a one adorned with ribbons." This proved " a word in season," revealing to the young convert what might otherwise have greatly hindered her growth in grace and influence for good. On becoming a Methodist all her friends, except one aunt, disowned her, but such was her consistent Chris tian conduct that in time not only did all this bitterness and bigotry cease, but she was regarded with the greatest respect by those who had despised and persecuted her. At this time there were in the district of country west of Armagh but three families that received the Wesleyan ministers : George Beaumont, of Benburb ; John Armstrong, of Killymaddy ; and Eobert 01iver,t of Mullantur. George Beaumont was fami liarly known as "the Bishop," a blunt, outspoken, godly, and faithful leader, who was spared long to welcome the preachers to * Subsequently married to Bobert Oliver of Mullantur. ¦j-|Father of Eev. James Oliver. CHAPTEE I. — 1820. 9- his dwelling and to work for Christ. John Armstrong was a most original, pious, and consistent brother. One day as he drove into Armagh market another Methodist who was with him said, "Since I got converted, I often wondered that when I was going headlong to the devil you did not take hold of me, and arrest me in my mad career." "Well, brother," replied Armstrong, "I know I have been very unfaithful, but it's not easy to plough in frost." On another occasion, at class meeting, in narrating his experience he said, " I have had many ups and downs since my conversion, but, thank God, I have had no outs and ins." He passed to the home above about twelve or fifteen years ago. Mr. Lanktree, who was on the Ards mission, says that he and his colleague, Eobert Wilson, had " a good and happy year." It pleased God not only to give them seals to their ministry, but so to confirm and establish those who had believed that societies were properly organized, and arrangements made for the forma tion of a new circuit, of which Donaghadee was the head. It having been stated that Grey Abbey was a very wicked place, and that many of the inhabitants were infidels, Mr. Lanktree resolved to preach there, even if it should be at the peril of life. Large congregations assembled, and no apparent opposition was raised ; but owing to the want of suitable accommodation, the services had to be abandoned.* The Eev. Jonathan Crowther, the President of the Conference, the Eev. Joseph Benson, and the Eev. James Wood were ap pointed to visit Ireland. Mr. Benson, however, being prevented from coming to this country, by affliction, his place was supplied by the Eev. William Myles ; and these honoured ministers arrived in the kingdom some time before the opening of Con ference. Mr. Wood visited a few societies in the north, and Mr. Myles some in the south, while the President continued to labour in the metropolis. The ministrations of these brethren proved highly acceptable, leaving " a pleasing remembrance of their wisdom, piety, and usefulness." The Wesleyan Conference met on July Tth, with the Eev. Jonathan Crowther in the chair. Thomas Ballard, who had supplied the place of William Wilson on the Tanderagee circuit, was * Lanktree's " Narrative,'' pp. 309, 310. 10 HISTOET OF METHODISM. received as having travelled twelve months.* Four deaths were reported : William Wilson, who had faithfully laboured for six years in the West Indies and Bermuda, and then with a shattered constitution returned home to die ; John Bredin, a veteran of the cross ; Samuel Alcorn, whose end was peace ; and John Price, who sixteen years previously had become a supernumerary, but in old age and feebleness evinced all the burning zeal of his earher years, labouring to his utmost to spread the knowledge of that Saviour whom he loved and whom it was his delight to serve. The day before he died he walked with the pains of death upon him five miles, to his appointment at Enniskeen. When the congregation assembled he requested that they would come into the room in which he lay, raised himself in bed, prayed with great fervour, shook hands with each person present, lay down, and spoke no more until he joined the redeemed in heaven. Such was the esteem in which he was held by even the Eoman Catholics that several of them attended his funeral, and requested permis sion to assist in carrying " the good man," as they called him, to his grave. Eobert Smith, who had travelled thirty-two years, withdrew from the Connexion, and subsequently received an appointment from the Primitive Wesleyan Conference. As, however, his with drawal did not take place until four years after the division, it is probable that there were other reasons for the step than dissatisfaction with the decision on the questions of the ordinances. In regard to the condition of the country, it is said, in the Address to the British Conference, " The state of Ireland at present is deplorable. The decline of commerce, depression of trade, want of employment, and latterly the sudden failure of almost all the banks through our southern districts have reduced the country to a condition of almost unparalleled distress. Our dear people, in common with others, have felt the pressure, in consequence of which our financial concerns are more than usually depressed." To meet the deficiency thus referred to, amounting to Jl,860, the preachers subscribed Jl,046 ; and as upwards of £800 was still required, it was resolved that a collection should * Mr. Ballard had also in 1817 supplied the place of Mr. Michael Murphy on the Aughrim circuit, and iu 18 J 8 the place of Mr, bterling in TuUamore. CHAPTEE I. — 1820. 11 be made in all the circuits, equal to tenpence per member. The spiritual state of the kingdom, however, was more cheering. " Through the year," it is said, " we have witnessed a blessed work, insomuch that notwithstanding the disappointment of our hopes in some instances, combined with the depopulating influence of disease and emigration among our people, we have added, upon the whole, upwards of twelve hundred members ; and when we consider the grace of God which has been manifested in this accession to our societies we cannot but rejoice therein, as a special token of the Divine favour." The Conference approved and recommended to the people the plan proposed by the Dungannon Committee for establishing a Building and Chapel Fund, in order to the relief of chapels and dwelling-houses then in embarrassed circumstances, and to assist in the erection of others. The plan here referred to provided, amongst other things, that a committee should be appointed " composed of ten preachers to be chosen by the Conference, and of ten brethren, not being travelling preachers, who should be. chosen by their respective districts," out of persons nominated for that purpose by the circuit quarterly meetings in March. This marks an important stage in the development of Methodist organization, as thus the right was given, for the first time, to quarterly meetings to nominate, and to district meetings to elect, lay representatives as members of a Connexional Committee. Leave having been given for the erection of a new chapel in Dublin, and Messrs. Mayne and Mackey deputed " to collect through the kingdom" the necessary funds, John Summerfield and John Holmes were taken from the list of reserve to supply their places in the metropolis. An address was also issued to the "Members and Friends of the Methodist Society in Ireland," gratefully acknowledging the spiritual prosperity vouchsafed, calling attention to the serious financial difficulties encountered, and earnestly pleading for assistance. The Primitive Wesleyan Conference met on July 12th. John Stephenson, of the Castlebar circuit, and William K. Digby, of Athlone, were received on trial ; but the latter, on account of ill health, was unable to take his appointment, and in a few months entered into the more immediate presence of his Lord. It was reported that there was an increase of six hundred and twenty-one 12" HISTORY OF METHODISM. in the number of members, that the ministry of the preachers was regularly attended by overflowing congregations of persons of various religious persuasions, and that there was among Pro testants in general a growing interest in the cause, while several new preaching houses had been erected, and the state of the funds presented " a truly pleasing aspect." John Armstrong was appointed with John Nelson to the Armagh circuit, and gives a racy and characteristic description ¦of his reception at the first of his country stopping places. On knocking, the door was opened by a plain but neatly dressed old woman, who had entertained the preachers for half a century, and now inquired of the stranger who he was. " I am the new preacher, ma'am," said Mr. Armstrong-; "have you any dinner for me ? " "I had some two hours ago," she replied ; " but it is spoiled waiting for you ; and now, young man, let me give you some advice. When you go to an appointment always go in time, and don't keep the people waiting for you." " Thank you, ma'am," said the youthful itinerant. " When you have finished your dinner," the matron went on to say, " go out, visit the neighbours, and gather a good congregation for the evening." " Thank you, ma'am," again replied the preacher ; " is that all ? " " No ; after preaching go early to bed, and then you can rise early ; for it is a shame for a preacher to be late in the moming, keeping from their work people who can do nothing until he is gone." " Thank you, ma'am ; anything else ? " " Yes ; when there are children in the house be kind to them and teach them verses of the Bible and hymns ; get them to love you, and then you will do them good." " Thank you, ma'am ; what more ? " " When that is done leave the house, that you may be in good time for your next appoint ment." The young preacher again gratefully acknowledged the interest thus manifested in his success, and in subsequently nar rating the incident would add that he had been profited all through life by the sound and homely advice thus given. At Comber the congregations had become so large as to require the erection of a chapel. The grant of a suitable site was there fore secured from the Marquis of Londonderry, the permission of Conference obtained, and valuable help given by the local clergy and laity of different denominations. In Bangor also appearances were so promising that, being deprived of the rented place in CHAPTEE I.— 1820. 13 which the services had been held, it was proposed to build a house. This project was greatly encouraged by Mr. John Johnston, of Lurgan, who with his family lodged there. Although Colonel Ward, the lord of the soil, having no sympathy with Methodism, would render no assistance, an eligible site was purchased. The congregations in the town were good, and were assisted by members of the New Connexion Society, who subscribed liberally to the new project.* The Wesleyan Society in Athlone had been very prosperous until rent and tom by the division, so that only one old man and a few soldiers were left. The preachers, however, continued to visit the town occasionally, and a friend who lived about three miles distant received them into his house. This year, however, a discharged soldier who was a Methodist, having obtained a situa tion in the garrison, invited the servants of God to stop with him, and the cause began to revive again. f Leave of Conference having been obtained, a new preaching house was erected in Eoscommon. Thirteen years previously Mr. Michael Shera J had settled in the town, and at once invited the preachers to his house, where services were regularly held once each fortnight until now, when the present chapel was erected, chiefly through the Divine blessing on the labours and liberality of this devoted Methodist. § Mr. Summerfield's ministry in Dublin was wonderfully owned of God, especially to a number of young men, between whom and the youthful preacher a friendship sprang up which was influential for good on their character, and the memory of which was very precious. Mr. William H. Baskin was one of this noble band, probably the last survivor of them, and to his latest hour the recollection of some of the marvellously beautiful sermons de livered more than half a century previously was as fresh as if only heard the day before. At the British Conference held at Liver pool, Mr. Summerfield met the Eev. John Emory, and this inter view, together with the state of his health, led him to resolve to go to America, where he arrived early in 1821. His reputation * Lanktree's " Narrative," pp. 309-12. I Unpublished Journal of the Eev. G, Burrows. J A son of Mr. Caleb Shera, of the county of Leitrim. § Irish Christian Advocate, 1884, p. 277. 14 HISTORY OF METHODISM. there was soon made. Charmed, thrilled, subdued, and carried away under the overpowering influence of his seraphic eloquence, many said, " He is an angel ; " and others, " He talks like an angel direct from heaven ; " but his course was very brief. On June 13th, 1825, while the dew of youth was still upon him, the end came. One of his sisters was with him, impressed on his pale, wasted cheek the last kiss, and said " Good night." " Good night," replied Summerfield, quietly went asleep, and awoke in heaven. Mr. Thomas Waugh was now in Bandon, where he soon became exceedingly popular and the work greatly prospered. Amongst those converted to God and added to the Society were Messrs. Thomas Beamish, who subsequently entered the itinerancy, Henry Belcher, afterwards stepson-in-law of Mr. Waugh, Eobert Edwards, William Kingston, and Henry Cornwall, for many years leading office bearers on the circuit and large contributors to its funds. The circumstances which led to the conversion of the last-men tioned are worthy of notice. There was a most devoted young lady. Miss Biggs, a Methodist, who gave very generously to the poor and was greatly respected in the town. One Sunday evening she put her hand on the shoulder of Mr. Cornwall, then a gay and thoughtless youth, and said to him, " Harry, come with me." He consented, and thus for the first time entered a Wesleyan chapel. During the following week, Miss Biggs, through visiting some poor people ill with fever, caught the infection and died. This so deeply impressed the mind of Mr. Cornwall that he resolved to abandon his former worldly course, join the Society, and give his heart to God, which proved the commencement of a career of protracted and extensive usefulness. Mr. Waugh's great readiness and power in debate stood well to him at a public meeting held towards the close of the year, in the Court house, Bandon, for the purpose of establishing a branch of the Bible Society, and during the course of which the project was opposed by two able speakers, one a priest, and the other a classical teacher. Francis, first Earl of Bandon — son of the Mr. Bernard mentioned by Mr. Wesley on his visit to the town in 1787 — was in the chair ; and the speakers in favour of the Society were the Eev. Joseph Jervois, Eector of Ballymodan and his curate, the Eev. Henry E. Sadlier. Neither of these ministers was remarkable for either rehgious zeal or platform ability so CHAPTER I. — 1820. 15 they were easily overcome. Then, amid a scene of wild disorder and confusion, Mr. Waugh sought and obtained permission to speak, and in a masterly address exposed the sophisms of the opponents of the Bible so completely that the priest and his helper fled. When IMr. Waugh concluded there was tremendous applause ; many, including the noble chairman, rose to their feet, and waved their hats and handkerchiefs with the greatest enthu siasm. At the close of the meeting the Earl of Bandon, as an expression of his respect, offered to obtain for the champion of the truth the commission of the peace ; but on ascertaining that such an honour would not be in harmony with the position of the preacher, and that he was raising money for the erection of a new chapel, his lordship sent a subscription of £30 for himself, and £5 each for his son and two daughters. Thenceforward Mr. Waugh was regarded with special favour at Castle Bernard.* During Mr. Waugh's superintendence of the circuit, William Welply,t of Bengour, was united in marriage to Martha Orr, of Inishannon, a union that proved the means of much and lasting good. Mrs. Welply at once took a decided stand for Christ and His cause, and in conjunction with her husband's aunt, Mrs. Hosford, $ familiarly called Aunt Pattie, a very devoted woman, laboured earnestly and successfully to extend the Eedeemer's kingdom. She was soon appointed to the charge of a class, and in it, her large household, and her extensive social circle exerted a powerful, life-long, and salutary influence, which may be traced to the present day. * Irish Christian Advocate, 1883, p. 579. f Youngest son of John Welply, -vide i., p. 368. J Wife of Benjamin Hosford, ibid. CHAPTEE II. 1821. At the period now before us not only were strenuous efforts made to pass the Catholic Emancipation Act, but increased vigilance was observed by the priests to prevent their people forsaking the Church of Eome. Thus on January 21st, 1821, Mr. Graham wrote from Newtownbarry, " I find we have no other way of getting at Eoman Catholics but by preaching in fairs and markets. They are watched very closely by their clergy, who leave nothing undone in order to keep them from hearing us. They even prevent servants from going to live in Protestant houses, especially where we lodge. But in the markets we have a full hearing. The work of the Lord is prospering in convincing, converting, and sanctifying power. I cannot but admire the fortitude of the converts from Eome. Two of them went lately to warn their friends ; the mother of one of them struck her with the tongs and blackened her arm, and the 'other was near being murdered, but escaped with life." Again, on March 24th, the same devoted missionary writes, " I am still preaching to the Eomanists, and, notwithstanding all the prohibitions of their clergy, have a hearing, 'Tis of the Lord I am left so long in this country. Before I leave, it would appear the Lord will raise up young men who will more than fill my place. Two of these took their station by my side on the last market-day of Gorey. It appeared formidable to see three men set in battle array, preparing to open a battery on the ramparts of Babylon ; and it was a glorious time. Many rejoiced to see it. After we had done speaking, a Catholic came to one of the young men and said, 'I have heard the truth and will embrace it.' We shall soon have him amongst our people." A commendable but fruitless effort was made by the Eev. Matthew Lanktree to effect a union of the New Connexion and the Wesleyan Methodists. On April 3rd he wrote to the Con- CHAPTER II. 1821. 17 ference of the former, saying that in consequence of the good feeling which had for some time been manifested between the two Societies in this country, he had been induced to request some of the principal members of each to meet, which they did in Bangor, on IMarch 19th, and unanimously resolved, "That the brethren of the New Connexion be requested, at their next yearly meeting, to deliberate on the importance of a reunion of both Connexions, according to such principles as the wisdom of united counsels should decide to be most honourable to the Christian cause and the lasting unity, edification, and increase of both the Societies." In accordance with this resolution, Mr. Ijanktree earnestly and respectfully urged the Conference to give a favourable considera tion to the subject, which led to a meeting of deputies of each body on ]May 20th. As, however, the New Connexion brethren insisted on the admission of the laity into Conference, as an indis pensable condition of union, and the Wesleyans were not prepared to concede this, the negotiations led to no practical result. An interesting picture is presented of the state of the New Connexion in Bangor. There were two morning classes, two preaching services, and a school each Sabbath. The chapel had an unceiled roof and earthen floor, with neither fireplace nor stove, yet it was usually well attended in the morning, and crowded in the evening. In summer there was out-door preaching, — now on the Kinnegar, the favourite promenade of visitors, again on the quay, the loitering-place of seamen, and then on the hill, the dwelling-place of the fishermen. Amongst the active and useful members of the Society was the only son of the Eev. John M'Clure, William, who had been convinced of sin about two years previously, and taking his Bible, had retired to the sea-shore, where, amongst the grey old rocks, he had wrestled in prayer until he obtained the knowledge of salvation by the remission of sins — a blessing which he never lost. Another of this devoted band was a joiner named Bob Neill. Naturally shrewd and observant, he was well acquainted with the Word of God, and could use it with telling effect, in either " wound ing the heart of the King's enemies" or in strengthening the feeble-minded. Few scoffers would venture within the range of his artillery, and if they did they were sure to go limping all the rest of their life. One day, on William IM'Clure calling to have a VOL. III. 2 18 HISTORY OF METHODISM. chat with this remarkable man, he heard very earnest talking. Pausing a moment, lest he should disturb the speaker, and looking in, he could see no second party, and heard the words, " You are a liar ! " uttered with startling force. Before he had time to ask any question, Bob stamped his foot on the ground, and again vehemently exclaimed, "You are a liar! ye'U get nae ither answer frae me to the day o' my death." On the visitor inquir ing to whom Neill had been speaking, he replied, "To the old leeing devil, to be sure. His impudence is awfu' ; he has just now been whispering into my ear, ' Bob, you are deceivin' yoursel', — yes, and ither folk as weel ; your heart, mun, was never changed by the grace of God ; it's a wind ; yir auld heart is tilling ye a pack o' stuff about regeneration ; why, you are just the same mun ye iver war, only you can manage to skin things over and mak' them look nice.' " Then, with a look of triumphant indignation, he continued, " The black auld beast has telt me that same story a thousand times before — ay, an' troubled me often and sair in this very thing. At first I used to reason wi' him ; but I'm wiser noo, for the devil stops at naething if ye only just let him talk wi' ye ; but nae mun should ever attempt to reason wi' the fether o' a' lies; for what can onybody mak' o' a liar? So for years past, whenever he speaks to me, I at once make him to understand that I ken wha's there ; and as soon as he sees he's found out he's aff like an ill-meanin' beast wi' his tail amang his feet." * About twenty years previous to this, Mr. Joseph Morrison had preached at Ballyboley, near Ballyclare, where a Mrs. Gawn had received him into her house, and was herself led to the Saviour, but seems in some measure to have retumed again to the world, so that no footing was obtained by Methodism in the townland. Now, however, on being visited by a distant relative, who was converted, he was asked to hold a prayer-meeting, and the Spirit so applied the word spoken at this service that several were con vinced of sin, formed into a class, and subsequently realized peace in beUeving. The leader was a grand old Christian, named Joseph Simpson, who came every Sunday morning for the purpose, from White Park, a mile and a half distant. One of his reports to the quarterly meeting was, " Sixteen members sixteen believers, and sixteen shillings." Many petty persecutions and * Memoir of the Eev, W. M'Clure, pp, 32 48, CHAPTER II. 1821. 19 annoyances were suffered, as was usual in such cases; but the members by their consistent conduct eventually disarmed hostility and prejudice. The good woman who had been the instrument of introducing Methodism into this locality had the unspeakable joy of seeing nearly all her family brought under the saving power of Divine grace, while the class formed in her house has stood the wear and tear of more than half a century. One of the first members was John Elliott, long known as a most devoted and successful leader in connection with Frederick Street Chapel, Belfast. A considerable number also of the members emigrated to America, where they have swelled the ranks of the Methodist Episcopal Church.* At Ballycor, in the same parish, a Mr. Love entertained the preachers, and fitted up a house for a preaching-place and Sunday- school. Mr. Edward Tucker, of Belfast, having been invited to conduct a service here on a Christmas Day, consented, and preached from Proverbs xi. 30. Amongst those present was a young man, named James Eiddle, a Covenanter, who thought as it was not a Sunday, he might gratify his curiosity to hear an un- ordained preacher, without committing a sin, and thus was led to hear the Gospel, which proved the power of God to his salvation. He joined the Society, and in 1827 emigrated to America, where he not only entered on a very successful business career, but as an eminent local preacher and generous supporter of the cause proved the instrument of most extensive and lasting good. He was one of the founders of the National Local Preachers' Associa tion, and in 1864 its president. After the death of Mr. Love, his heir took the house at Ballycor from the Society ; and the superintendent of the Sunday-school, a poor man, named Conway M'Analy, having received employment in connection with the bleach-works at Ballyclare, opened there another Sunday-school, in a private school-house in a small entry, that the Methodists were permitted to use for religious services. The following incident presents a striking resemblance to an adventure of one of the early preachers, already narrated : One evening Mr. Waugh set out for his appointment, and the country being much disturbed, a friend asked him where he was going. He replied, " To Dunmanway." The other shrugged his * Irish Ecangelist, 1861, p. 178. 20 HISTORY OF METHODISM. shoulders and said, " I would rather you should go that journey than I, this evening ; " but the preacher was not the man to be easily intimidated or diverted from his purpose, and therefore proceeded. After some time he observed a set of fellows, who appeared intent on mischief ; and one of them shouted, " Who are you ? " " What business is that of yours ? " answered Mr. Waugh, and rode on at full speed, followed by a bludgeon, which grazed the side of his head. Quickly alighting, he seized the weapon, and in a moment regained the saddle ; at which a shout was raised, accompanied by a volley of stones, one of which struck him, and knocked the stick out of his hand, while a number of the ruffians, availing themselves of a turn in the road, crossed by a shorter path, and thus got in front of him. Now, thought the itinerant, they will do for me ; yet putting on a bold front, and thrusting his hand into his breast, he said, " The first man of you that lifts his hand I will have his hfe." They then at once opened a way fpr him, and he dashing on, amidst yells and stones, made his escape and reached his destination in safety.* A movement was started to erect a new chapel in Bandon. The one in North Main street had been in use for more than thirty years ; and owing to the success of the Society, it was found necessary to secure a larger and more suitable building. An excellent site was obtained from the Duke of Devonshire, a sub scription-list opened, and on April 12th the foundation laid ia the presence of a vast concourse of people. The honour of laying the stone was conferred on Mr. Waugh ; and as soon as that part of the ceremony was over, the Eev. Samuel Wood preached an eloquent and powerful sermon. f Meanwhile another and still larger chapel was erected. This. was in Abbey street, Dublin, and is said to have originated in a sermon preached by Summerfield in Whitefriar street, after which several hundred pounds were subscribed. When this building was roofed, and before the chapel itself was ready for use, services were held regularly on the upper fioor. One Sunday a young man, named-William Deaker, attracted by the appearance of the new building, entered, heard Mr. Mayne preach, and at the close- of the service, observing several persons retire into side rooms * Irish Christian Advocate, 1883, p. 579. t Ibid, 1884, p. 54. •CHAPTER II.— 1821. 21 tfoUowed some of them into one, which proved to be the place in which Arthur Williams met a class, of which WiUiam and James ¦Carson, WilUam and Henry Heney, and others were members. The youthful stranger was warmly welcomed, and on being addressed by the leader, gave such an account of his religious experience as deeply affected all who heard it. On that day he was received on trial, and in due time entered on the privileges and responsibihties of membership, which he retained until his peaceful death, nearly sixty years subsequently.* On June 3rd Dr. Clarke opened this chapel, which was crowded to excess by " nobility, gentry, and others," many being unable to obtain admission. The opportunity was seized by the preacher of reading the Liturgy, and thus reintroducing into Irish Methodism the service which thirty years previously he had assisted to exclude, and rendering no longer necessary the after noon meeting which had been adopted as a compromise. The Doctor selected for his text Deuteronomy iv. 7 — 9, and preached an exceedingly able and powerful sermon. The collection amounted to £140. Having made an excursion to the North, Dr. Clarke retumed to Dublin in time to preach again in the new chapel, on the following Sabbath, when there was present a very great crowd, including " some of the nobles, gentry, and learned of the land." The reports from the various mission-stations for the year now drawing to a close were most cheering. From Galway Mr. Arthur Noble writes, that although he had met with much opposition, and sometimes great danger, he had obtained such favour in the eyes of the Eoman CathoUcs that many of them came out to hear, and were deeply affected under the word, while some joined the Society. The missionary preached regularly in the house of a Eomanist, and formed in it a class of fifteen members. Mr. George Hansbrow of Tireragh says that in this new and laborious field sixty members had entered the Society. Mr. Thomas Kerr never found his Catholic fellow-countrymen so willing to hear the Gospel as they had been on the Carrick-on-Shannon mission ; he had known them frequently to weep as they listened to the word preached and the praises of God sung, and at least one had come out boldly for Christ and His cause. Mr. Willian Cornwall, who had been appointed to Killaloe, states that many Eomanists * Irish Evangelist, 1880, p. 674. 22 HISTORY OF METHODISM. attended his services ; two who had joined the Society previously continued faithful, and a third, a schoolmaster, was a regular hearer. The latter had never read a chapter in the Bible until he heard that a missionary had brought some Irish Testaments to Mountshannon, and he was induced to take one, the perusal of which made such an impression on his mind that he walked eighty miles to obtain additional copies, which he carried home and distributed amongst his Eoman Catholic neighbours. Concerning the county of Down, Mr. James Bell reports that several new preaching-places were opened, and many persons received the Gospel, including some who had not attended a place of worship for thirty years. A society was formed at the Spa, near BaUynahinch, and several souls were won for Christ. At Dundrum the congregations were good, and a marked change for the better had taken place in the morals of the inhabitants. At Strangford one young man, a Eomanist, having heard the priest warn his flock to beware of stragglers and strangers, thought that this was not the teaching of the Bible, and began at once to study the Word of God for himself. New Ught shone into his mind, and having received further instruction from the missionary, he continued seeking the Lord until enabled to testify to a sense of his acceptance by God through Christ Jesus. From the Ards and Comber district of the county Mr. Lanktree writes, "In creasing crowds attend the word preached ; several souls have been brought to a knowledge of salvation by the remission of sins ; backsliders have been restored, and believers quickened to press forward for the attainment of every promised and purchased blessing of the new covenant." * The President, the Eev. Jabez Bunting, together with Messrs. Joseph Entwistle and Eobert Newton, were appointed by the British Conference to visit Ireland, but Mr. Newton was by un avoidable circumstances prevented from coming. Mr. Entwistle, however, arrived in Dublin on Saturday, June 23rd, and on the following day preached to large congregations — at noon in Abbey Street Chapel, and in the evening in Whitefriar street. At the latter place, especially, he says there were several things that pleased him much — viz., the chapel, a square buUding, with gaUery and roof supported by large pillars, with no pews but the * Report of Sile-rnia-n Methodist Mis.iionarij Society, 1821. CHAPTER II. 1821. 23 stewards', and the whole kept as clean as one could conceive ; the deep seriousness of the people, who, after the second hymn was sung, remained standing until the text was read, as if to hear the Lord speak, and then sat down ; and the collection made at every pubUc service, to which all contributed something. The whole presented to the eye of the stranger " a fine specimen of Primitive Methodism." On the following Tuesday Mr. Entwistle started on a tour through the provinces, visiting and preaching in Carlow, Waterford, Clonmel — where he was the guest of Mr. Joseph Higgins — Cashel, Templemore, Eoscrea, and TuUamore. At Birr, on July 9th, he opened a new chapel, and says, " The congrega tion was large, respectable, and attentive. Most of the respectable Protestant families attended, amongst whom were the Countess of Eosse and her son. Lord Oxinantown, a lovely youth. The Earl would have been present, had he been at home. He gave the land and a subscription towards the chapel." The structure which this building replaced is still standing, but used as a slaughter-house. It is situated in an aUey, off a back lane, while what was the preacher's house is in the lane itself, and thus occupies the less dishonourable position of the two. Mr. Entwistle was much impressed with the poverty and squalor of the Eomish population. " No idea," he says, " can be formed of the miserable circumstances and appearance of the poor Catholics, by those who have not seen them — almost naked, living in miserable cabins, in society with their pigs, and lying upon straw. But the Protestants, who live in towns only, for they cannot live in the country, are like a different caste, in good houses, and decent in their dress, so that though our congregations are but small, compared with those in England, they look even more respectable." " The spirit of the Irish preachers," he writes, " is excellent ; they appear to be men of God, but have many difficulties that we know nothing of in England," while the people seemed "much devoted to the Lord." Meanwhile the Primitive Wesleyan Conference met on June 27th. The following young men were received on trial : George Washington, Abraham L. Dobbin, of the Charlemont circuit, George Eevington of Eoscrea, John Noble of Togherdoo, and Samuel Eogers of Blackslee. The reports from the circuits generally were of a cheering character, and afforded evidence of 24 HISTORY OF METHODISM. the continued favour and goodness of the Lord. On most of them there had been blessed outpourings of the Spirit, great numbers were awakened to a sense of their sins, and many brought to a saving acquaintance with the truth, so that the increase in the number of members amounted to upwards of eight hundred. This made the total Methodist membership of the two Connexions thirty-seven thousand one hundred, being a larger number than had ever before been recognized in connection with the Societies, or was recognised again until eleven years subsequently. In the Pastoral Address it is said, "The occurrences that take place from year to year convince us more and more of Divine superintendence over the whole of our economy, and of a blessing upon all our exertions ; so that we are abundantly encouraged on every hand, and are only at a loss for expression to show the thankfulness we feel for continued proofs of bounty towards us. By the loving and effectual assistance of our representatives of circuits, our financial concerns have been so wisely managed that we are entirely free of debt, and all our wants have been com pletely supplied ; while mutual harmony and increasing Christian love unite us all more closely to each other, and the frank and undisguised development of sentiment with which all our affairs are conducted gives security, both to preachers and people, of permanent and indissoluble concord and confidence." At this Conference the first missions of the Society were esta blished, it being arranged that missionaries should be appointed to stations — such as Youghal and Letterkenny — that might be judged suitable, and that a collection should be made in each of the congregations to meet the necessary expense. Mr. Dugdale was appointed the first treasurer of the Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Home Mission. The Wesleyan Conference met on July 6th. About seventy preachers were present, with the Eev. Jabez Bunting in the chair. The Eev. Andrew Hamilton, jun., was elected a member of the Hundred, in place of the Eev. WilUam Hamilton, superannuated, and the Eev. Thomas Eidgeway chosen by seniority, instead of the Eev. Michael Murphy. John Holmes of Clogher was received as having travelled twelve months ; and three young men, including William Guard and John Feely, were admitted on trial. One death was reported — that of James Jordan, a man of much piety, CHAPTER II. — 1821. 25 sound understanding, and keen penetration, with considerable -talent as a preacher. It appeared, from the reports of the brethren, that on several circuits blessed revivals of religion had taken place, leading to considerable additions to the membership ; but owing to various causes, there was a net decrease of two hundred and sixty-two. The financial difficulties of the Connexion still continued, and pressed with increasing force. Upwards of i'SOO of the debt of the previous year remained, together with a deficit of about £1,700 in the current income. To meet this deficiency the preachers nobly contributed £1,260, while £550 was taken from the Book Eoom, and the balance remained as a debt. A circular letter was prepared and sent tothe quarterly meetings, urging "the necessity and Christian obligation " of making such exertions on their respective circuits as the maintenance of the work requfred. Sunday-schools were warmly recommended, as a means of bene fiting the rising generation. The still more important question of spiritual progress was raised ; and the measures adopted at the previous Conference in Liverpool were urged on the preachers and societies, with such few exceptions as the different circumstances of the two countries required. When the affairs of the Irish Connexion came before the British Conference, the deepest sympathy was excited on behalf of the Society on this side of the Channel. In a circular addressed to the EngUsh preachers who were not present it is said, with regard to the Irish brethren, " While we admired their unity, patience, and cheerfulness under pecuniary distress, and the ex tent of their voluntary sacrifices, we feel ourselves afflicted in their afflictions, and the hearts of all appeared to be in lively emotion, which expressed itself in word and deed. We felt that they were our brethren, ' flesh of our flesh and bone of our bone ' — brethren in distress — that they needed our assistance, that we ought to relieve them, that we had it in our power, and that we would do it, and therefore unanimously agreed that a present of books from our stock in London should be given, and a voluntary subscription raised amongst ourselves. Most, if not every one present con tributed more or less ; and it was judged proper that a letter •on the subject should be addressed to the preachers in the cfrcuits, ¦that they also might have an opportunity of manifesting their love 26 HISTORY OF METHODISM. to the brotherhood in the same way." Upwards of five hundred pounds was contributed in response to the appeal thus made. Not long after Conference, an opportunity was afforded the Society of expressing that loyalty to the throne for which Method ists have always been remarkable. King George IV. visited Ireland, making his public entry into DubUn on August 17th, amidst all the magnificence of a State procession, and applauded by the tens of thousands that attended his progress. Nothing could be more enthusiastic or cordial than his reception, and he remained a month dispensing and enjoying hospitality, apparently perfectly satisfying his own and his people's feelings. The oppor tunity was seized by the Methodists of presenting to his Majesty a loyal address, which had passed the Conference, and it was gra ciously received. It should also be noted that among other donations which the King directed to be paid on his behalf to various public charities in this country, was the sum of fifty pounds to the Dublin Strangers' Friend Society. Turning our attention, however, to the evangelistic work in which the Methodists were engaged, we find tokens of continued success. In July Mrs. Whittaker, having occasion to visit Bally shannon, found herself placed in rather novel circumstances. It was reported through the town that a lady from Sligo was there, and would preach. So a large congregation assembled, to whom she felt constrained to proclaim the glad tidings of salvation ; and the Lord so graciously assisted her that she was encouraged to- persevere in the work thus most unexpectedly begun. Messrs. George Stephenson and John Holmes were appointed to the Sligo cfrcuit, and thefr labours were eminently owned of God in a blessed and widespread revival. On Sunday, September 23rd, Mrs. Whittaker writes, "Being called on by Mr. Holmes to pray in the large congregation, I found such power granted from on high that it was in truth ' Ask, and ye shall receive.' I had hardly begun when a cry filled the house, some called aloud for mercy, and others wept tears of gratitude. Good was done in the name of the Holy Child Jesus." And again, on October 29th, "An amazing outpouring of the Spirit has taken place in our meeting-house, and conversions are continuaUy experienced. The distress of some of the penitents is indescribable ; sometimes they, continue without food for three or four days, and will receive no CHAPTER II. — 1821. 27 consolation until made happy by faith in the Atonement. Three in this house have been born again within this week." * Among the converts was a lad of sixteen, George Leech, who for more than sixty years subsequently proved a kind friend to the preachers and a faithful supporter of Methodism. He sustained in succes sion almost every office in the Society open to laymen, until at length he became a member of the Conference. Soon after he had thus attained to the highest ecclesiastical position within reach, he was caUed home to the Church triumphant. Previous to the period before us, the morning service in Method ist chapels was generally held at ten o'clock, so as not to interfere with attendance at church; but now a change having taken place by preaching at noon in Abbey street, Dublin, in other places a Uke stand was taken. On November 23rd Mrs. Whittaker writes, " This day having heard of our people purposing to have the hour of preaching on the Sabbath changed to twelve o'clock, I was led to rejoice that God had so changed the sentiments of my heart, which were altogether opposed to such a measure, as not only to acquiesce but exceedingly rejoice in it, hoping thereby to make time for attending two classes on Sabbath mornings, and also to shake off all man-pleasing, which I saw my attending church of late savoured too much of." A blessed religious awakening took place also at Hamilton's Bawn, a place so noted for Sabbath desecration and wickedness in general that it was called " Hamilton's Bawn, which knows no Sunday." The Eev. John Armstrong was the junior minister on the cfrcuit, and on Christmas Day formed the first class in this viUage. Amongst those awakened to a sense of their need of the Saviour was Alexander Greer, Esq., a half-pay officer, who gives the following account of his religious experience : " The recollec tion of my past life fills me with horror, amazement, and praise — horror that for forty-one years I was the most guilty of human beings — guilty of every sin man is capable of, except murder, and even that I vfrtually committed, for I sometimes in my heart wished a person dead ; amazement, that the Lord Almighty bore with me, and did not sweep me as a monster from the face of the earth, but, in His tender mercy, plucked me as a brand from the burning; praise that I have found a reconciled Father, and, * Unpublished Diary of Mrs. Whittaker. 28 HISTORY OF METHODISM. through the all-atoning blood of my Eedeemer, obtained a fuU, free, and gracious pardon." When Mr. Greer was led to reUgious decision, he opened his house for the entertainment of the minis ters of the Gospel, and identified himself with the Society, and thus continued his connection with Methodism until July, 1859, when he passed to the home above. It was at this period that Thomas T. N. Hull, a lad of fifteen, became connected with Methodism. During a visit of his to some relatives in the Isle of Man, his mother became a member of the Society, and on his return home to Donaghadee, as no other member of the family accompanied her to the Methodist services, he offered to do so. There was then no Sabbath-morning meeting in the chapel, and the preachers came every second Sunday for the evening service, while a local preacher from Bangor — ^fre quently a sergeant in regimentals — supplied the pulpit on the alternate evenings. Gradually the youth got clearer views of Divine truth, became more impressed and practically influenced by it, and was drawn by the Spirit into cordial sympathy with it, until he joined the Society, and at length was enabled to rejoice in a conscious sense of sins forgiven. He then began to work for Christ, visiting the sick, distributing tracts, and collecting for missions, and was thus led on step by step, and prepared for his subsequent protracted and useful ministerial career. Charles Graham had been appointed to the county of Wexford mission, and on August Sth states that he had preached in the market of Gorey to a vast multitude. Fossey Tackaberry, "a most blessed young man," helped him ; and they held field- meetings on three successive Sabbaths, " when crowds flocked to hear." On November 22nd the devoted missionary writes, " My strength and sight are failing, but I have cause to bless God that I have not laboured in vain and spent my strength for nought. I have been doing a little in the fairs and markets, and meet with no opposition." In Enniscorthy, on " the great market-day before Christmas," the fearless and faithful evangeUst, having taken his stand in the midst of the people, was violently opposed, and what ever came to hand freely thrown to stop the service; but the Mayor came on the scene, and soon stilled the noise of the tumult. "Many then stood pale-faced and confounded," as they listened to the preaching of the word, accompanied by the power of the CHAPTER II. — 1821. 29 Holy Ghost. In the market of Newtownbarry, when Mr. Banks saw the attention of the Eomanists, he confessed that he had no hope previously of witnessing such an encouraging sight. Graham adds, " We had a great watch-night in the market- house of Gorey." Mr. Feely was appointed to travel with Mr. Ouseley on the general mission. The veteran missionary regarded his young coUeague with the greatest affection and esteem, and spoke highly of his piety, zeal, and fitness for the work. "Brother Feely," he remarks, " is quite in his element when he stands or rides in the streets to address his countrymen in their own tongue, which he speaks with great facility ; and as they learn he has been of their own Church, they are the more eager to hear him." Feely also speaks with profound admiration and respect of Ouseley, more especially of his deep devotion, intense fervour, unremitting labours, and power and perseverance in prayer. He generally preached from thirteen to fifteen times each week, and even during the winter his labours were uninterrupted and his health unimpaired. In one place a schoolmaster, who had been a bigoted Eomanist, became suspicious, through witnessing the violence and cruelty of his priest, obtained a copy of the Ehemish Testament, and compared it with the Authorized Version. He found that the reUgion he had believed differed from that taught even in the former, and, quite alarmed, called on the priest and expressed his fears. The ecclesiastic replied with a threat of the horsewhip if he should hear any more such language. " If you do, sir," said the other, " I will give you the law. I will surely indict you if you strike me." Soon afterwards he abandoned all connection with the Church of Eome, and became a member of the Methodist Society. Another schoolmaster, also in the same vicinity, read Ouseley's Old Christianity, considered it unanswerable, and declared it was calculated to convert more Eoman CathoUcs than all the books he had ever seen. He also renounced Popery, as did one of his neighbours, to whom he stated his religious scruples. Many other instances of good effected at this time through the writings and labours of Ouseley might be narrated. Suffice it to refer to one more. Two young men, who had received a liberal education, waited on the missionary in Queen's County, to converse with him on religious subjects. It appeared that one of them 30 HISTORY OF METHODISM. having obtained a copy of Old Christianity, brought it to the priest, and inquired if the quotations in it were true. He was told that they were correct. " Then, sir," said the youth, " we are ruined." " Come, come," repUed the priest, " we must answer it ; you are a good scholar, and will do it." " Answer it !" rejoined the other, " answer truth ! no, sfr, never. Good-day ; I must quit mass for ever." He carried out his threat, and became an assistant in a Protestant school. The other young man, who had supposed his own arguments unanswerable, after some conversation, appeared greatly astonished, and burst into tears, confessing that he had never before seen the subjects under consideration in the same light. At this period the following interesting conversion from Popery took place : In the north riding of Tipperary there lived a farmer, named Henry Slack, who one day in 1812, being in Borrisokane, was attracted by a number of people standing in the street, and having joined them, heard the Gospel preached by Messrs. Ouseley and Eeilly. The word reached his heart, and led him to invite the servants of God to his house at Derrynasling, which thenceforward became a regular preaching appointment. Mr. Slack had a labourer in his service, named Philip Eourke, a man of gigantic stature and brawny frame, who was a host in himself at faction fights, and whose shillelah made terrible havoc among his foes. He was an ignorant and bigoted Eomanist, who regarded the preachers with special aversion, and resolved, if possible, to get them turned out of the house. So he went to his master and told him, on the authority of the priest, that the Methodists were dragons in sheep's clothing, and that they would do terrible mischief. Mr. Slack replied that people should not be condemned unheard, that the priest should come and hear them, and if he refused, that Philip himself should do so. The conversation having made a deep impression on the mind of the labourer, he said that though he could not go into the parlour, if the door were left open, he could hear Mr. M'Cormick, the preacher, in the kitchen. When subsequently asked how he liked what he heard, he repUed, "It was very good, but some one told the preacher all about me." Thenceforth Philip found his way regularly to the kitchen at the time of service ; light penetrated the deep darkness of his mind, and he became thoughtful and troubled. In this state of CHAPTER IL 1821. 31 uneasy apprehension, he went to confession, stated what he felt, and admitted that he had heard the preacher. " Never mend you," said the priest. " Did I not wam you against those fellows ? " Penance was laid on the awakened sinner, but without affording any reUef. Heavier penances were then imposed, but still in vain. Philip became worse and worse. The priest said he thought the devil had got into him, and he would try St. Peter's belt — a strap of leather with a buckle — which was worn round the waist, and tightened as prayers were said. Eourke put on and pulled this instrument of torture, until it cut his flesh, but failed to heal his wounded spfrit. The priest now gave him up to the enemy, and cautioned the people to have nothing to do with him. On the following day, in a wretched state of mind, he went to the bog to cut turf, and when his feUow-labourers went home to dinner, thought he would tell the Lord all. So kneeling down, he confessed his drunkenness, cursing, and fighting, told God how he had gone to his priest and followed his directions, but obtained no relief, and then cried earnestly, " 0 Lord, have mercy on me, for Christ's sake, if there is pardon for such a wretched sinner as I am." Lifting up his eyes, he thought he saw the Saviour looking compassionately at him, and felt at once his burden taken away, and his heart filled with joy. Starting up, he ran home to tell his wife what the Lord had done for him ; and work was given up for the remainder of the day, which was spent in giving glory to God. On Mr. M'Cormick's next visit, Philip went into the parlour at preaching-time, and after the service concluded, gave an account of his conversion before all the people. He was now a living epistle, known and read of all men, old things having passed away, and all things become new. He also Ustened with great attention to the truth as proclaimed by the servants of God, mastered the art of reading, that he might study the Bible, and so faithfully witnessed and worked for Christ amongst his neighbours that he became known as Philip the Prophet. The priest once more tried his hand on this disturber of his parish. " Does your Eeverence think you can make the Lord's body for me ? " inquired the zealous convert. " I have that power, Philip ; can you doubt it ? " " Then, your Eeverence, I have two little hens, but no cow. Now, if you can turn them into two milk cows, to give us milk for the children, I shall believe you 32 HISTORY OF METHODISM. have the power you say." " Get a' gone ! get a' gone ! " was- the reply, and so ended Philip's connection with Popery. Eourke lived a zealous disciple, in his artless way talking- and praying with the people, so that they " would rather hear him than the priest.'' There was a pungency and a power in his reproofs and exhortations which made them very telUng. On one- occasion, being in Nenagh, he went to the market-place, where were a number of people, and began to speak to them on the subject which lay nearest his heart. As the conversation went on, many drew near to listen, and his warnings became more earnest, his tones louder, and his gesticulation increasingly violent. There he stood in the midst, and could be seen from afar, head and shoulders above the crowd, urging them to give up their sins and flee from the wrath to come. A clerical magistrate, passing by, inquired what the crowd meant, and was told that Eourke the Prophet was telling the people the world would be destroyed immediately. Others said it was a madman, and he ought to be shut up ; and it may be the wild action and loud voice of the speaker gave colour to this suggestion, or possibly the cleric wished to check this pestilent fellow, whO" belonged to the sect everywhere spoken against. Be that as it may, a committal was hastily signed, and Philip lodged in gaol,. through the iron bars of which he continued to speak to the people. Next day he was Uberated, and found that he had made many friends in the town. Mr. Slack Uved only a few years after this, and on his death the family sold their interest in the farm and emigrated to- America. Philip was therefore obliged to remove to another part of the country. When aged and feeble, his son was most anxious to bring him back to the old Church, and tried in vain to persuade him to receive the priest. A bribe was offered if he would go- once more to mass. " I'll be glad to go to last mass," said the old man. When Sunday came he was told it was time to go. "Where?" inquired Eourke. "To mass." "That is not the mass I promised to go to, but last mass, the last that shall ever be celebrated, and that will be a happy day for Ireland." As the end of Ufe drew near, the son determined to make a final attempt to execute his purpose, and brought the priest, who on arriving said, " I am glad to hear that you are sorry for your past conduct. CHAPTER II. — 1821. 33 and now wish to return to the true Church." The dying man fixed his eyes on the speaker, but made no reply. " Don't you know me ? " asked his Eeverence. " Indeed I do," said Philip. " Did you not send for me ? " " No, sir." " Will you be confessed ? " "I do confess to the great God," said Eourke, " that I was a very bad man ; that I deserved to be turned into hell ; but you know, sir, that God so loved the world that He gave His blessed Son to die for me and all mankind : I believe that blessed promise, and when He is pleased to take me out of this world it will be to be happy with Himself for ever." " Well, Eourke," answered the priest, " the confidence you have in your Saviour is the best you can have ; here is a shilling, and I will give orders that no one shall be allowed to disturb you." And accordingly, before leaving, the priest said to the son that his father had made a true con fession, and on no account to trouble the poor man further.* * Irish Evangelist, 1873, pp. 13, 14, 27, 28 VOL. III. CHAPTEE III. 1822. Early in 1822 the Marquis of Wellesley was appointed Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, and as he and those associated -with him were known to be favourable to conferring political privileges on Eoman Catholics, it was supposed that every ebullition of Popish turbulence would be suppressed, and a new era inaugurated, from which Ireland might date her internal union and tranquillity. But there was, as there has been ever since, in the Eomish popu lation a deep-rooted conviction that every attempt to meet their wishes was a concession to violence and disloyalty ; and hence the most liberal rulers have had to contend with the greatest lawless ness. Now that a policy of conciliation was adopted, the spirit of disaffection and disagreement pervaded all ranks of society. Lord Wellesley was unable to still the strife between different factions among the upper classes, while among the lower a burning hatred to the Protestant faith and a strong repulsion to rights of property occasioned a continuance of those agrarian outrages which made the island a scene of tempestuous violence, iniquity, and disorder. The most atrocious deeds continued to be per petrated, a system of Whiteboyism was regularly organized, and notwithstanding the unceasing vigilance of the police, people assembled in hundreds, broke into the houses of Protestants, plundered their property, and subjected them to the grossest abuse. Eobbery and outrage were succeeded by famine. The potatoes, which formed the staple food in the South and West, decayed and perished in the ground, and before the end of May the whole of Munster and Connaught was in a state of starvation. The peasantry, leaving their cabins and little plots of ground, from which they had derived their scanty subsistence, crowded into the viUages, seeking in vain for employment or relief from CHAPTER III. 1822. 35 those who were almost in as bad a position as themselves. The attention of the Govemment was soon directed to the destitution which prevailed, and a large sum of money allotted to the work of relief. But most of all was done by the munificent benevolence of the people of England, who, as soon as the miserable condition of the country was known, contributed upwards of two hundred and fifty thousand pounds ; and the diligence and prudence used in the application of this fund were not inferior to the earnestness with which it had been raised. During this season of peril and distress the Methodist preachers continued their arduous and important work, with tokens of the Divine approval and blessing. On New Year's Day Mr. Graham preached in the fair at Gorey, when he concluded ; Mr. John S. Wilson continued the service, and both had a most appreciative audience. On April 20th the missionary writes, " Although the minds of the people are disaffected, and many are alarmed, yet, through all, I have an attentive hearing, and many melted into tears under the word. The work is deepening and spreading. I met thirty in class in Newtownbarry on last Sabbath moming. It was Uke the opening of heaven. The progress the members are making in the Divine Ufe is astonishing." Three of these were recent converts from Eomanism — one, a young man, whose father, when dying, enjoined on him to pay ten shillings quarterly, to get him out of purgatory ; but his mother, who was a Protestant, left him her Bible, with a dying request to read it. He, feeling as much attached to her as to his father, brought five guineas to the priest to pray for her also ; but he refused, saying, " She is hopelessly lost, as a heretic. As, however, you are so anxious, I wiU write to the bishop." His lordship was of the same mind ; and thus the youth was thrown into utter despair. Some one then invited him to hear Mr. Graham preach, which he did, and thus was led to rejoice in God his Saviour. On June 22nd Graham writes, " The Lord has raised up many who are now able and wUling to declare the glad tidings to a perishing world. Some are leaving mass, and others are inquiring how they may make their escape. I have been lately endeavouring to open some new places, and although I have not joined them in societies I think impressions have been made which will yield fruit. The field-meetings are much acknowledged. Heaven has 36 HISTORY OF METHODISM. greatly blessed us with labourers in this corner of the vineyard ; and many who were greatly prejudiced now see thefr mistake, and confess that the power of the Lord is among the Methodists. Some profess and enjoy the blessing of entfre sanctification, others are pressing after it." And again, a little later, " What a mercy that our ministry is not failing, but increasing both in gifts and in grace ! We have a number of most blessed young men on this mission, and a number of holy men and women who are alive to God. Their cups are fuU and flowing over. Among these a young man who has fled from mass is an ornament to reUgion, and not withstanding the danger to which he is exposed, fears neither priests nor people. There are females also, belonging to that system, who are striving to make their escape, but are watched by their parents and friends." On April 19th there is the foUowing entry in the diary of James Field : " Went to Bandon, where the Lord has singularly revived His work of late. The principal instrument of this great work is Mr. WiUiam Eichey, a young, plain preacher, extremely humble, pious, and laborious, who preaches a present, free, and full salvation, through the blood of Jesus." * Amongst the young men of the Society who were either converted or greatly quickened during this blessed revival were John Barry, who subsequently laboured with great success as a missionary in the West Indies ; and John Nash, John Harrington, and WilUam Starkey, who entered the itinerancy in Ireland ; while the young women led to the Saviour included Eebecca Eobinson, subsequently wife of the Eev. William Starkey; Annie Beamish, to whom the Eev. Matthew Lanktree, jun., was affianced, and her sister Eliza, who was married to the Eev. John Saul — a noble band of Christian sisters that would have proved a blessing to any Church. At the close of the year no less than eight hundred and ninety members were found on the circuit, the largest number ever retumed from this district of country. Owing to the disturbed state of Munster, which interfered greatly with open-air services, it was considered advisable that Messrs. Ouseley and Feely should confine their labours chiefly to Ulster and Connaught, where they had considerable success. Multitudes, including many Eoman Catholics, attended their * A Devout Soldier, p, 131. CHAPTER III.— 1822. 37 ministry, and Ustened with deep attention and interest. At length Ouseley, having received a severe bruise in one of his feet, was obUged to come to Dublin for rest. Here, while unable to go out, he employed his pen in defence of Protestantism, getting through the press a statement of a young convert who had been educated for the Eomish priesthood, and also replying to some pernicious works then in general circulation. While in the metropolis, he received a most interesting letter from his young friend, whose narrative he had edited, from which the following is an extract : " The Gospel seed sown by you, and nourished by our mutual friends, is producing daily an increase of peace and tranquillity of soul, hitherto unconceived by me. There is a great spirit of inqufry here. We long to see you again. Come, in short, and finish the work begun. Your last sermon in Arvagh has made a great stir. The Eoman Catholics say you spoke the truth, and, in general, they tell me that they do not know the good their clergy do for them. They think purgatory a Church fiction, and are very anxious to see my objections. May the Lord continue your usefulness to the poor Irish, is the earnest prayer of your very sincere and truly affectionate child in the Lord." In another letter, alluding to his former associates, he says, " They all are forced to allow I had just reasons for separating from the Church of Eome." Mr. Ouseley mentions the case of this young convert, in hopeful terms, in a letter to Joseph Butterworth, Esq,, and in connection with it expresses himself very strongly as to the policy of the Government. " I never remember," he says, " Ireland as it now is : Papists who are desolating the country, cherished ; and Protestants, who should be cherished, dispirited, and their energies paralyzed. To encourage Popery is to disturb the nation ; for hopes of dominancy, and priestly intrigue, will make it furious." In June Mr. Ouseley writes that he and Mr. Feely had just returned from a tour of ten weeks through Ulster. They had preached frequently in the streets and markets, to large and deeply attentive congregations; there was not the least interruption, nor anything of an unpleasant nature ; and very many Eoman Catholics attended and listened with great apparent satisfaction, especially to Feely, as he told the artless story of his conversion from Popery and sin to the truth and holiness. Eeference is made 38 HISTORY OF METHODISM. to at least two intelligent and respectable Eomanists, who had attended several of the public services and also waited for class- meetings. " Upon the whole," says Ouseley, " we have had an encouraging prospect in nearly every place." During one of the missionary's visits to Sligo, as he preached to a crowd in the street, a priest named O'Connor rode up, and scattered the people with his whip. That evening, in the chapel by the river-side, Ouseley took down the names of forty persons, who joined the Society. Amongst these was William Graham Campbell, than a lad of seventeen, who some time afterwards, under the ministry of Mr. Holmes, obtained peace in believing, and then entered upon a course of evangelistic labour which was abundantly owned of God. The pressing question of the Connexional debt appears, at this time, to have received the serious attention of several of the prin cipal societies. Limerick took the lead, issuing a circular letter, in which prompt assistance was earnestly requested to relieve the embarrassed circumstances of the preachers. Two replies Ue before us — one dated May 22nd, from the stewards of the DubUn society, addressed " to the Stewards and Leaders of the Methodist Society in Ireland." In this document are expressed regret that the plan of weekly and quarterly payments recommended by the Conference had not been as successful as could be desired, and thankfulness to the brethren in Limerick " for their worthy exer tions in calling on the friends of Methodism to meet the deficien cies of the current year ; " but at the same time objection is taken to the means proposed, as only sufficient to relieve the existing emergency. It is suggested that a more eligible plan, and one striking at the root of the evil, would be that a committee of finance should be appointed, consisting of representatives selected by the preachers and stewards of each district, and that all the financial concerns of the Connexion should be laid before this committee, and such measures adopted as might be deemed neces sary to meet the expenditure of the year, subject, of course, to the approval of Conference. The second reply is from the stewards on the Sligo circuit, addressed " to the Stewards and Leaders of the Methodist Societies in Ireland," and is dated June 22nd. In this letter, having expressed the warmest approbation of the Limerick circular, it is CHAPTEE III.— 1822. 39 stated that while the writers looked forward with pleasure to seeing the pressure removed from the preachers, they felt disappointed and grieved on receipt of the Dublin epistle, suggesting means to prevent anticipated difficulties, but discouraging efforts to relieve the existing distress. " We highly approve," it is said, " of such plans as shall prevent future embarrassments; but what are our preachers to do until such plans be carried into effect ? Are they and their families to want bread, while they are feeding us with the Bread of Life ? " And as an evidence of their practical sym pathy, the Sligo friends offer a contribution of forty-three pounds. The proposal of the Dublin stewards, however, was to a certain extent carried out. Several persons appointed by their respective district meetings, -with other friends, met " to consider the plan proposed by the Dublin letter, or any other, by which the Con nexion could support itself, without suffering the preachers and their famiUes to labour under such embarrassments as they had for many years been enduring." At this meeting the following recommendations were adopted : " (1) That in every district in the kingdom a special financial meeting shaU be held once a year, in the month of August, consisting of the superintendent preacher and general steward of the respective circuits in each district. Should the steward, however, of any circuit be prevented by illness or otherwise from fulfilling his appointment, it is expected that the leaders' meeting of every such circuit will appoint a person to act in his place, so that each circuit may have its representa tive at the special meeting. (2) That the general expenditure of the Connexion be apportioned to the different districts, according to the number of members in each, having due regard also to their comparative circumstances. A portion, however, of the Yearly Col lection, which for the ensuing year may be £530, and of the profits of the Book Eoom, estimated at £320, will be aUowed to each dis trict, to assist in meeting the demands which may be made upon it. (3) That the number of wives and children to be provided for by each district, together with the sum that may be expected from each from the above sources, shaU be published annuaUy in the Minutes of the Conference. (4) That the proportion of expendi ture that each circuit may be required to meet, as also the assistance which may be afforded by the grant to the district, from the Yearly Collection and the Book Eoom, shall be regulated by 40 HISTORY OF METHODISM. the annual special district meeting. (5) That the superintendent preacher and steward of each circuit shaU, as soon after the special meeting as possible, acquaint, by letter or otherwise, all the leaders of the circuit to which they may belong of the determination of such meeting. (6) That it is particularly requested of the leaders to communicate the information which they may receive, accom panied with whatever other observations they may think necessary to offer for the elucidation of the plan, to the members of their respective classes, so that every member of our Society may see the necessity for contributing as much as possible to the various collections. (7) That each circuit is to have its own Education Collection, to assist in meeting the demand for that purpose. (8) That all the collections are to be handed to the general steward of each circuit, who shall pay, by quarterly instalments, the preachers stationed on his circuit, who may be entitled to the regular allowance for wives' money, maintenance and education of children, etc." An eamest appeal was also made for subscriptions on behalf of the Connexional debt, which amounted to upwards of £8,000, and a sub-committee appointed to receive the amounts contributed. These proposals were published in a circular, signed by Messrs. William Kent and William Osborne, Dublin; John Boyd, CootehiU ; Thomas Tracy, Limerick ; Edward H. Bolton, Lisburn ; and Thomas Shillington, Portadown, and endorsed by the President and Secretary on behalf of the Conference, which, with some slight modifications, accepted the suggestions thus made. As the Eev. Eobert Newton had been appointed by the British Conference to accompany the President to Ireland, Mr. Waugh invited him to open the new chapel in Bandon. En route, however, to this town he preached twice, and attended a pubhc meeting in Cork, concerning which James Field writes, "Amazing interest has been excited. Our missionary meeting was the greatest I ever attended. £11 18s. was collected." The first service in the new building was held on June 23rd, at two o'clock, when the eloquent divine selected for his text Psalm xxvi. 8. He also preached in the evening, from John iii. 16. On each occasion the house was crowded. The collections amounted to nearly £96 ; and the recollection of the services is fresh and fragrant to the few who were present and still survive. Subscriptions were CHAPTER III. — 1822. 41 raised to the amount of about ¦ £920. At the south side of the chapel two preachers' residences were also built, and between them an upper and a lower class-room, while underneath the preaching- house were apartments for the sexton and additional class-rooms. The whole undertaking cost about £2,160, so the trustees had to borrow £1,150, which, with a considerable amount of interest, was paid off in the course of sixteen years. At the same time that the above scheme was carried out another great want of Methodism in this town was met, by the generosity of a gentleman who proved a warm friend of the Con nexion. ]\Ir. Henry Cornwall, being anxious to lessen the Sabbath desecration that prevailed in the neighbourhood, and considering that no means would be so likely to effect this as reUgious instruction, had estabUshed a Sunday-school, which was held in a cow-shed until he succeeded in erecting a suitable building. Here the work prospered beyond the highest expectations. Daily schools were then established, placed under the management of a local committee, and also proved very successful. Four hundred pounds was bequeathed by Mr. Cornwall as an endowment to assist in the support of these valuable institutions, which are maintained to the present day. The Primitive Wesleyan Conference commenced on June 26th. There were received on trial six candidates, including Noble Wiley of the Enniskillen circuit, William Scott of Tanderagee, John Milligan of Charlemont, Daniel Macafee, and Dawson D. Heather. One death was reported, that of Joseph Armstrong, who had for thfrty years laboured with great fideUty and success as a Method ist preacher ; and who, as the end of life approached, was enabled to testify that his soul was full of God. There was a decrease in the number of members of six hundred and thirty-seven. Although the Society had suffered in its funds from the general depression of the times, the lay representatives generously made up the deficiencies, so as to relieve the preachers from aU pecuniary encumbrances. In order to revive the work of the Lord, it was resolved — To preach or hold prayer-meetings every morning in town and country. To pay all possible attention to the children in every accessible house, instructing them, and endeavouring to excite in them attention to spfritual things. To visit the people from 42 HISTORY OF METHODISM. house to house, advising and praying with them. To meet the classes after preaching, when practicable, and the societies on Sabbath evenings. To preach and Uve the doctrine of Christian perfection. To use every possible means to promote the esta blishment of Sunday-schools in both towns and country places. Never to omit quarterly watch-night services and lovefeasts. And with aU zeal to revive private and public bands. Mission aries also were appointed to Kerry and the west of Cork, to Youghal, and to Sligo. The subject, however, that engaged most the attention of Conference was the publication of a magazine. The question had been discussed frequently before, but the difficulties in the way of carrying it out had appeared insurmountable. But now it was resolved that the work should be commenced early in 1823, and that the preachers and representatives be requested to use every exertion to procure subscribers. Accordingly, the first number appeared in March of the following year, and this valuable work continued to be published for fifty-six years. It was also agreed upon that a Book Eoom should be established, to meet the expenses of which one thousand pounds was to be raised by loan or public subscription. The Wesleyan Conference met on July 5th, the Eev. George Marsden President, the Eev. Eobert Newton Visitor, and the Eev. Andrew Hamilton, jun.. Secretary. About eighty ministers were present. James Lamb, of the Wicklow circuit, and Matthew Lanktree, jun., who had been called out during the year, were received as having travelled twelve months ; and .lohn Wilson, jun.,* was admitted on trial. There was one death reported, that of George Brown, who had entered the itinerancy in 1776, and was in life and death a beautiful example of perfect love and Christian simplicity. The subscriptions from the preachers towards the deficiency amounted to £547 10s., while the minis ters and other friends in England contributed £503 2s. id. The Eev. William Stewart was elected a representative to the British Conference, a position which he sustained for nineteen out of twenty-five years. The decrease in the number of members was eight hundred * A son of William Wilson, who entered the itinerancy in 1788, and great grandson of Philip Guier of Balliugrane. CHAPTER III.— 1822. 43 and twenty, the causes of which, as well as other particulars in regard to the state of the kingdom, will be best seen from the following extracts from the Address to the brethren in Great Britain : " Our country, since the last sitting of the Conference, has exhibited an awful and melancholy picture of our national crimes and miseries. Outrages, robberies, burnings, and murders have encompassed us and our societies, in almost every direction, in the southern and westem counties. Societies have been scattered, property destroyed, and, in some instances, our beloved brethren the preachers violently attacked on the public roads ; yet, as the shepherds of the Lord's flock, no man shrank from his duty, no man neglected his circuit, and, to the praise and glory of the Great Shepherd, not a hair of our head has perished. Surely the Lord is our Keeper ! In such circumstances of desolation and poverty as have succeeded the insurrectionary state of this country, when tens of thousands of the poor are begging and starving, when trade is depressed, when there is no market for agricultural pro duce, and when anxiety and fear have come upon the land like an armed host, it is not to be wondered at that our beloved societies should have had a large portion of the common afflic tion, and therefore that their numbers, and their aids towards the support of the Gospel, should have decreased. Whole families have emigrated to America, as the only place of refuge, and in consequence whole societies have been dispersed. Though our land has bled, yet God has not forgotten to be gracious to us, and in not a few instances have we seen His goodness and power manifested in the regeneration, consolation, and final triumph of precious souls.'' It was also some consolation that, in the midst of political disturbances, the societies continued to maintain such a reputation for loyalty that in districts where the Insurrection Act was in force the possession of a Methodist class-ticket was deemed a sufficient security for the peaceable character of the party who produced it, and answered all the purposes of a passport.* On the morning after three preachers had been received into fuU connexion, the members of the Conference, deeply impressed by the hallowed influences of that service, considered the state of the work in this country, and the best means of promoting it. In * Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1822, p. 585. 44 HISTORY OF METHODISM. a general conversation, it was recommended that, as ministers, they should, with deep humility and unreserved devotion, give themselves more fully to God and His work, and that to this end they should attend more faithfully and laboriously than ever to preaching in the open air, meeting the classes, visiting from house to house, rendering the leaders' meetings more useful and spiritual, inviting strangers to attend the services of the sanctuary, distributing religious books and tracts, and also establishing schools under Methodist patronage. In order to promote Sunday- schools, it was agreed to appoint a committee, designated " The General Committee for Eaising and Encouraging Wesleyan Methodist Sunday-schools in Ireland," and consisting of five members of Society in Dublin, and one from each district, with an equal number of preachers. The Conference also resolved to secure the house then in process of erection, adjoining the new chapel in Abbey street, Dublin, for a Book Eoom, at an annual rent of £60. These subjects were considered with such sacred feelings that it appeared to the elder brethren that at no former period in their memory had a more gracious and blessed Divine influence rested on them. Of the public services, Fossey Tackaberry, who was present, and was placed on the list of reserve, writes, " I went to hear Mr. Newton preach ; and preach he did, with a witness ! He is reckoned the second greatest preacher among the Methodists ; but if there be a greater, it is indeed a wonder. He spoke for an hour on Philippians iii. 8, first clause. Surely such a sermon I never heard before. The vast, crowded congregation seemed as if nailed to their seats ; hardly a cough or breath was heard through the house ; and not a few falling tears witnessed that the people felt as well as admired." Again, " This is observed as a day of fasting and prayer. The prayer-meeting at six this morning was well attended. The President opened it, and Messrs. Wood, Mayne, and Newton prayed. It was a time of power. It is now twelve, when the next prayer-meeting begins." The lovefeast is thus described : " No person spoke but travelling preachers. It was a time of the greatest power I ever experienced. Several present said they never felt so much of the power of God before. The Lord is evidently reviving His work in the hearts of the ministers, and it seemed that night as if He was about to revive CHAPTEE III. — 1822. 45 it through the kingdom generally. Oh, the faith that seemed to be in that meeting ! Several of the preachers gave cheering accounts of revivals on their circuits. I think I shall never forget that night." The Eev. Samuel Wood was appointed Eepresentative to the British Conference, and, during his visit to the metropolis well- nigh sustained a serious financial loss. The entire contributions of British ^Methodism to Ireland, amounting to more than £600, had been entrusted to his care. This he deposited in a small hand-bag which he was wont to carry to and from Conference. One evening, on his way to his stopping-place, he hailed a passing glass coach, which he, whether from economy or modesty, dis charged within easy walking distance of his lodgings. Thus the driver neither knew his starting-point nor his destination, nor did the minister know the cabman's stand or stable. When the latter had driven out of call the former was aghast to find that he had left his hand-bag, bank-notes and all, behind in the cab. Next morning he hastened to a printer's, and had placards struck off and stuck up over the city offering a handsome reward for the restoration of a valise left in a hackney-coach on the previous evening. Now Mr. Wood was, both in costume and port, so much more like Bishop Eyle's " first-class rector " than his " half-educated meeting-parson " that it was some time before it occurred to the cabman or his counsellors that the left luggage might belong to one of the Methodist preachers assembled in the city. Conference was within a few hours of its close, and still no tidings of the missing bag. Mr. Wood was almost distracted. £600 was a sum which Irish Methodism could not dispense with, of which British jNIethodism could not afford to produce a duplicate, and which the worthy Eepresentative could not tell how to raise. In his distress he had stolen out of Conference into the adjoining minister's house, of which the Eev. George Morley was then the occupant. The kind-hearted brother was doing all that he could to comfort him, telUng him there was no course left but to make known his trouble to the brethren, and trust their wisdom and kindness to find the best way out of it, when suddenly the despairing Eepresentative shouted, " The valise ! the valise ! " and rushed hatless out into the street. Mr. Morley feared that the bewUdered brother's intellect had for a time given way under 46 HISTORY OF METHODISM. the pressure of his perplexity, till he saw him dart across the way to a man with a black bag in his hand. It had at last struck the cabman that the reverend gentleman who had left the bag behind might possibly be one of the Methodist preachers, and he was making his way to the chapel in search of its owner. The man seems not to have even speculated as to the contents of his find, and it had never crossed his mind that this could be the " valise " of the placards.* Such was a signal instance of integrity ; but not less marked was the following instance of dishonesty pardoned : There was a Eomanist, named Grant, in Maryborough Gaol, under sentence of death for robbery. He had pursued a wild and daring career of vice and crime, and had even escaped the grasp of justice, but after some time was recaptured. Some members of the Society made this -wretched culprit a subject of special prayer, visited him, and brought before him his awful danger, so that he was aroused to a sense of his sinfulness, freely acknow ledged his guilt, and was led in penitence of spirit to the foot of the Cross. He often said that if he had his life to live over again he would go through the kingdom warning sinners, and calling on them to tum to God ; " for," said he, " they would hear me if I told them all I had gone through, and the change God wrought in my heart." And at the gallows he exhorted the assembled multitude for more than an hour, con fessing his sins, and expressing his confidence that God, for Christ's sake, had pardoned them. Castlederg appears now for the first time, in the Minutes of the Conference, as the head-quarters of a mission in the county of Tyrone. Although Methodism had long existed and flourished in the surrounding country, it had no position in the town, and the spirit of the preachers was often stirred within them as they passed through it on the Sunday mornings to their appointments, and observed how the people appeared to have no regard for the law of God or the claims of religion. At length a son of Mr. James Moore, of Drumclamph, settled there, and invited the servants of Christ to his house. Soon, through the influence and example of this godly man, and the labours of the itinerants, the whole aspect of the village changed, the moral tone of the people was raised, * Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1886. CHAPTEE III. 1822. 47 and the foundation laid of a permanent and prosperous Methodist church. Messrs. George H. Irwin, Dawson D. Heather, and John Milligan were appointed by the Primitive Conference to the Cavan circuit, which embraced a wide extent of country, affording an ample field for an earnest and zealous evangelist like young Heather. He was not satisfied with going regularly round his appointments, performing his duties and nothing more. He looked beyond the sphere of his assigned labours to regions lying in darkness and the shadow of death, and longed to hold forth in them the light of Divine truth. This led him sometimes to break through prescribed rules, and give swing for the time being to his ardent, enterprising spirit. Thus on one occasion, having heard of a district of country inhabited by a number of Protestants who were living in ignorance and sin, he said to Mr. Milligan that it was impressed on his mind that he ought to visit and preach to these people, and they arranged to go together, giving up for the time being their regular appointments. Accordingly, they set off for the place, knowing nothing of any there, only that they were lost sinners, and needed the Gospel. God had been preparing the way for His messengers, so that on arriving they found a people ready to receive the truth. A very wicked man had had an awful dream, which aroused him to great anxiety about his soul, and excited the interest of his neighbours. The preachers went at once to see this awakened sinner, and not only spoke to him about his state and the means of deliverance, but also intimated to those who were in the house that if a place were afforded they would preach Jesus to as many as would come to hear. A house was soon obtained, the whole locality was canvassed for a congregation, and when the time of service came a dense crowd assembled. Mr. Heather preached, the power of God descended on the people, and sinners cried aloud for mercy, so that the meeting could not be closed until an early hour on the following morning. The whole population was moved as by one impulse, the congregations increased day after day, and numbers were led to the Saviour. In the meantime Mr. Irwin did not know where his young men had gone to or what had become of them. The regular places were disappointed, numerous com- 48 HISTORY OF METHODISM. plaints were made, and the quarterly meetings approached with no one apparently to assist in conducting them. When the day of one of these services arrived Mr. Irwin was present, the people assembled, and as the meeting was about to begin a large number of people were seen approaching on the top of a distant hill. These were the young preachers, accompanied by men and women, some walking, others riding, and many driving, who had decided for God, and in the lovefeast bore grateful testimony to the grace of God. Mr. Irwin not only condoned the irregularity of his colleagues, but rejoiced in what God had done by them. Messrs. Hazleton, Eemmington, and John Armstrong were appointed to the Enniskillen and Brookeborough circuit. Mr. Armstrong refers in his unpublished diary to the kind reception he met with from Mr. Hugh Copeland;* and on the Ust of stopping-places are found the familiar names of Messrs. Guthe- ridge of Drummee ; Noble Johnston, Bohevny ; John Wilkin, Magherahar ; John Halliday, Ballycassidy ; James Johnston, Currin ; John Earls, Aughaward ; William Armstrong, Inishmore ; Henry Copeland,* Lisbellaw ; John Hunter, Ballyreagh ; Adam Eichey, f Carnahinny ; Andrew Johnston, | Starraghan ; and Francis Eussell, Drumbad More. Of Mrs. Eussell, Mr. Armstrong writes, " She is a mother in Israel. I have hardly met her equal for good sense and sterling piety." In one house he met an old saint, who had met in class for fifty-five years, and was a spiritual child of John Smith, the Apostle of Methodism in Fer managh. Of the circuit as a whole the young preacher says, " I find from within eight miles of Ballyshannon to Clogher about one thousand and fifty members, the lodging-houses in general respectable, and many openings, but no evenings to spare. The work of God is reviving, enlarging our classes and swelUng our congregations." A widespread and blessed religious awakening did indeed take place, resulting in a large number of conversions. On September 22nd we read, " The quarterly meeting was held in Enniskillen ; the chapel was so full that the people had not room to stand, and there were many outside. The Lord filled the hoase * Brother of Eev. William Copeland. f Father of the Eev. WilUam Eichey. J Father of the Eev. James Johnston. CHAPTER III. — 1822. 49 with His presence, and a few were made happy." Mr. Hazleton had preached a series of sermons on "Entire Sanctification," which proved the means of quickening the leaders to a higher spfritual life, and thus the good work commenced, and then spread far and wide. Not a few of those converted subsequently rose to positions of influence and usefulness, in which they rendered most valuable aid to the Society. Matthew Lanktree, sen., laboured earnestly on the county of Down mission, and was cheered with tokens of spfritual prosperity. Notwithstanding much difficulty, he was enabled to continue the building ofthe new chapel at Comber, until December 22nd, when it was formally opened by Messrs. Charles Mayne and John F.Mathews, who preached with much pathos and power to crowded congregations. Charles Graham was reappointed to the county of Wexford, and on August 19th writes, " I had to retum from the mission very unwell, and spent eight days at home, after which I set out to meet Messrs. Ouseley and Feely in the market of Gorey. As they were late in coming, I took to the saddle and faced the crowd, and then a local preacher held forth. But before he had done, the men whom we expected came up, and then you would imagine there was scarcely a particle of antichristian superstition but was exposed and swept away for ever. The field-meetings were astonishing. The Lord is paying those two men well for their labour of love. We had a great breaking down. The places are weU watered. You would wonder to see so many Protestants in a country place as we had at the field-meeting. The people are blessedly aUve. Some are joining our classes, and some getting con verted. Oh, what a mercy that any are making thefr escape from the world and the devil ! ' The kingdom of heaven suffereth- violence, and the violent take it by force.' " Again, on September - 19th the missionary writes, " A considerable time ago, as Mr. Mayne and I preached in the fair of Gorey, in the midst of shouting and laughter, the uproar became so great that many said they had not seen such a day since the rebellion ; to some it appeared that to address such a people was all labour in vain ; yet in the midst of the confusion the Lord was doing His work. A man who looked on and heard for himself was forcibly struck in observing us exposing ourselves to reproach and insult, concluded that something more than ordinary must have induced us, and the VOL. III. 4 50 HISTORY OF METHODISM. word preached sank so deeply into his heart that a saving change took place, and he has been ever since a steady member of our Society." That young man was John Byme. Four months later Mr. Graham says, "Although every effort is made to prevent the Catholics from hearing, yet they do hear, and I beUeve feel the truth which is preached. The seed may appear for some time to be under the clods, but it wiU spring forth and bear fruit at last. On Christmas morning a dispute arose between the priest and one of his parishioners, which led the former to attempt to strike the other, but was prevented. He then tumed his vestments to curse the man, and opened a book to close it on him, when another person dashed the book out of his hand. It appeared that the man whom the priest struck kept a Bible, which was the secret of the scuffle, and his Eeverence, to his great mortification, had to beg pardon for what he had done ; but the other declared he would never hear him again. The Bible is opening the eyes of the people, and I am resolved they shall hear in the streets. Crowds are hearing, tears flow apace, errors are exposed, and none dare to contradict. Many say it was in the street they were convinced of their lost condition. The prospect is good, and the end will be glorious." On December 18th Mr. Ouseley states that he was on his " sixth tour since Conference." The two first were through the counties of Wicklow, Wexford, Kilkenny, and Carlow, and closed at the end of September. During these journeys he preached in the markets, streets, and fields, from twelve to sixteen times each week, besides twice a day frequently in the chapels, and Mr. Feely did not do much less. Thus very many Eomanists and others heard the Gospel for the first time, and with manifest emotion, while some were not afraid or ashamed to confess Christ. The next tour was through the county of Meath. The missionaries preached again and again, in the streets of Trim, to large numbers who were delighted to hear the Gospel in their own tongue. It appeared that the reading of the Scriptures in the jail had proved a great blessing to several of the prisoners, who, to the great alarm of the priests, abandoned the superstitions of Eomanism. The fourth tour was through the counties of Westmeath and Longford. In the market of MuUingar and the street of Longford especially the audiences were large and deeply attentive, and there were several other most encouraging meetings. In the fifth tour CHAPTER III. — 1822. 61 the servants of God parted, Mr. Feely taking the county of Louth etc., where he had good times, and Mr. Ouseley Kildare, King's and Queen's county, and Tipperary. He preached frequently, as usual, and was cheered by tokens of the Divine presence in awaken ing power, leading several to become members of the Society. At Nenagh, in the street on a Sabbath, there were present a vast number of people, who listened with much attention and satisfac tion, and who crowded the chapel in the evening. During the sixth tour the missionaries travelled together through the counties of Meath, Cavan, Tyrone, Armagh, and Monaghan ; and though at times the weather was very severe, they had large congrega tions and much encouragement, especially at Killashandra, Clones, Cookstown, Armagh, and Monaghan. Mr. Ouseley also refers to having received a letter from a young man, trained for the priesthood, whom he had met, and who had renounced Popery. In a letter from Mr. Irons of the Primitive Wesleyans, Cork, dated October, he says, " I bless God His work is prospering on this and the Bandon circuits. Upwards of fifty members have been added to the Society since Conference, and some truly con verted. Our last quarterly lovefeast was the best I have witnessed for a long time. We are building a neat preaching-house in Mallow, and brother Whittle one in Skibbereen." Mr. Eevington, in a letter from Bandon, written at about the same time, says, " Since Conference we have added about forty to our Society, and our congregations have greatly increased. The religious feeling which prevails at our meetings encourages me to hope that much good will result. There is a visiting committee, consisting of some of the most pious and respectable members of our Society, who distribute tracts and copies of Wesley's sermons, amongst the Protestant inhabitants of the town, give reUgious advice, and invite the people to the means of grace. The members of Society also devote a few minutes each day to prayer that God may revive His work. To these means, together with prayer- meetings, which have been established in different parts of the town, we attribute, under God, our prosperity." Through the ministry of Mr. Eevington, there waa converted a young man, named George Thomas, then seventeen years of age. Consecrating himself fully to the service of God, he became a very useful member and office-bearer of the Society. Though of 52 HISTORY OF METHODISM. retiring habits, he threw himself with all his energies into the work, and the Lord greatly blessed his efforts. His simplicity of character was marked, and the influence he wielded, though great, apparently unconscious. His devotional spfrit and uninterrupted union -with Christ led to a tranquillity of soul and self-control, which continued unmoved by severe and even sudden provocations. He was a generous contributor to the cause of God, and as life approached a close manifested a growing meetness for " the inheritance of the saints in Ught," his last words being, "Perfect peace — perfect peace." For twenty years he had been steward to the Earl of Bandon, who, with a number of the tenants on the estate, erected an ex pensive and beautiful tablet to his memory in Ballymodan church. The Eev. Samuel Kyle having been incapacitated for work on the Skibbereen circuit by an accident, which well-nigh cost him his life, Fossey Tackaberry was sent to his assistance. A journey of one hundred and seventy-four miles on horseback, and made in safety, through strange and disturbed parts of the country, naturaUy excited in the youthful preacher emotions of the liveliest gratitude. " At Fermoy," where a chapel was erected this year, he says, " I met with a prodigy indeed, the head surgeon of the twenty- sixth regiment of foot rightly converted. A simpler, plainer, sweeter man I have not seen since I left home than Dr. Coldstream. He told me all about his conversion, which took place at Gibraltar." It was market-day when Mr. Tackaberry arrived at Skibbereen ; and Irish being rarely spoken in his native place, it was passing strange to him not to hear a word of English during his progress through the crowded streets. The first day he laboured in the town afforded ground for hopeful anticipations. "I have now spent a Sabbath among this people," he says. " There are some precious souls here, and I had much freedom in speaking to them." On this circuit he had to ride every fortnight, from sixty to eighty miles on very bad roads, to preach twenty-two sermons, and to meet fourteen or sixteen classes. The wild and bleak scenery did not impress him favourably ; but among the people he felt at home and happy, having "uncommon Uberty" in preaching almost in every place, and his whole soul was drawn out in earnest prayer that the Lord would revive His work. He was therefore soon cheered with tokens of prosperity— some were led to decide for God, several added to the Society, and the members in general much quickened. CHAPTER IV. 1823. One of the truest friends of Irish Methodism was Dr. Adam Clarke, who never forgot his obUgations to the Society, as oppor tunity presented did his best to promote its welfare, and in times of gloom and darkness encouraged it to look forward to brighter days. On January 29th, 1823, he writes, "I thank God I have lived to some purpose in the Methodist Connexion. I have been the means of inducing the preachers in general to cultivate their minds, and to acquire a knowledge of the Greek and Hebrew Scriptures, so that we are likely soon to have not only a pious, but also a learned and efficient ministry. My letter on behalf of the Irish preachers is, I beUeve, weU received, and I hope will be very productive. Mr. Bunting writes to me that he thinks it wUl get £1,000, and if so I shall thank God I ever wrote it. In my own hands it has produced not merely one pound, but forty times that sum. I took care to send it where I had reason to believe it would succeed. Irish Methodism will rise. Thank God, it is redeemed from its trammels. May it stand in the liberty where with Christ has made it free, and in the old yoke of bondage may it never again be entangled ! " * Cheering reports appear as to the state of the work in various parts of the country. On January 18th Charles Graham says, " I would recommend all who can preach, more and more to preach out of doors. It is true the devil does not like it, nor does any man who confers with flesh and blood ; it is also true an uproar may betimes attend it, such I had in the street of Ennis corthy, on New Year's day. However, after the storm there succeeded a calm, the power of the Lord came down, and many were melted into tears. So it was in Gorey market last Saturday ; * Unpublished letter to the Eev. A. Mackey. 54 HISTORY OF METHODISM. some said they were never happier, and poor sinners were weeping on every hand." * On February 7 th James Field writes from Cork, " The Lord greatly blesses the labours of Mr. Tobias ; the word comes with power. Several obtain pardon, some purity. I have gained forty members during last year. The Tuesday class papers are full- not room for one more name. I am happy ; never more heartily engaged in my Lord's work." t Amongst those converted was Miss Harriet Moran, subsequently Mrs. James Hughes, who on the day foUowing her decision for God sought the minister, and said she had come like the restored leper, who gave glory to God, that she might thankfully acknowledge the grace she had received. Mr. Tobias at once placed her in a suitable class. She also became a member of the bands, and in these fruitful means enjoyed hallowed fellowship with kindred spirits, grew up in the Ufe of faith and love, " as willows by the water-courses," so that her sanctity, prayerfulness, and zeal, accompanied by all the charms of mental culture and winning grace, made an impression still fresh and fragrant. $ On February I7th the Eev. George Hansbrow writes, from Killaloe, " I am surrounded, almost daily, with ' beasts of mur derous prey ; ' every feeling is often harrowed with reports and realities of desperate scenes of woe, sufficient to make the Stoic feel, the patriot blush, and the Christian weep. If tears of blood could stop these appalUng scenes it would be well indeed. Not withstanding these things, and the commercial and agricultural distress of this country, there are not a few who find that Christ is precious, and many more are striving to give their hearts to Him. Those who attend the services appear to have a growing desire to hear, and evince a wiUingness to be reproved for their sin. Could I find proper leaders, much more good would be done." § John Feely, who was appointed to assist Gideon Ouseley on the general mission, states that in a tour from Aughnacloy to TuUa more, commenced on December 23rd, during which they visited * Report rf Hibernian Missionary Society, 1823, p. 35. t Memoirs of James Field, p. 76. % Wesleya-^ Methodist Magazine, 1860, p. 958. § Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1823, p. 486. CHAPTEE IV.— 1823. 55 Augher, Carnahinny, Brookeborough, Enniskillen, SwanUnbar, Drumshambo, Carrick-on-Shannon, Elphin, Eoscommon, Bally- murray, Athlone, Moate, Kilbeggan, and Tyrrellspass, he was greatly encouraged to persevere in his arduous work as an Irish missionary ; for many Eomanists heard the truth in these places with profit. One man said, " I will in future hear the Gospel from you, though I know I shaU be dreadfully persecuted. Oh, do, sfr, give me more advice how to obtain the salvation of my soul ! " Another said, " I have no much English at aU, but you speak Irish, and I want to break my mind to you. I live here above, with one of the most civil men in Ireland, and the priest tells me he is a devil, and that I am a real devil because I hear him read the Scriptures. I bid him come and speak to him, if it was the devil, but he won't do that, but he will rail at me. God Almighty pity us, that we are under the paws of the priests. If a poor person die, they wiU leave his soul there in purgatory for ever and ever, unless they get the money some way or other. But if he be rich, and the money paid down, then they will say masses enough to get him out. They call me preacher, since I heard you last week ; but I don't care. What you said would put more of God's fear into a person's heart, and make him think more about his soul, than ever so many masses and things." * Such were some of the shrewd remarks of one of many just emerging out of the darkness and superstition of Popery. The Eev. Eobert Bailey, who had been appointed to the EathmuUan mission, having been laid aside, John Feely was sent to take his place, and in giving an account of his work here he sa,ys he preached at Court to an affectionate people, who heard the word with joy and gratitude. At EathmuUan many attended, and listened with great attention, and the Society consisted of lively, serious Christians. At Glenleary he preached chiefly in Irish, as Eoman CathoUcs were present. At Eawros, a hamlet in the mountains, into which the Gospel had been introduced a few years previously by the Methodist ihissionaries, a large number were present, who listened attentively. On the following morning, after having swum his horse across a river about half a mile broad, he discoursed in GUnsk, another village into which the Gospel had been introduced a few years previously, by the missionaries, * Hibernian Missionary Report, 1823, p. 34. 56 HISTORY OF METHODISM. and where there was a smaU Society and a pretty large congre gation. He also preached at the back of Muckish, " to a decent people," many of whom could not speak English, and who heard the word with attention.* At Annadale, where the cause had declined until it ceased to exist, a society was again formed by the Eev. William Foote, and its first members were Mr. and Mrs. James W. Slacke, the son and daughter-in-law of the sainted Mrs. Angel Anna Slacke, and their daughter, who each determined to give up the world and its vanities, and " to know nothing among men but Jesus Christ and Him crucified," and thus their abode became once more a house of prayer. t The Eev. Charles Graham thus describes the results of his five years' labours in the county of Wexford : " There are now eighty members on this mission — some convinced of sin, some converted, and a few who profess to having received sanctifying grace. In some places we have no class-meeting, for want of leaders or pray ing members ; but there is every prospect that the Lord will raise up those who will assist in this way. There are three local preachers, zealous and useful, and three who can exhort, pray, and hold meetings. One of the local preachers was a Eoman Catholic." t Similar reports of success are also given in connection with the labours of the Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Society. On the Maguiresbridge circuit there appears to have been an ex tensive and gracious awakening, which commenced at Ballyreagh, on the evening of January 6th, when nine persons professed to have experienced " the peace which passeth all understanding ; " and the revival continued to spread far and wide. " I think," says Mrs. Herbert, " I never saw before a more general work of God. Our last quarterly meeting was one of the best I have ever been at. Many cried aloud for mercy, and numbers were filled ¦with heavenly consolation." From Downpatrick Mr. Macafee writes, " Our congregations are greatly increased, new places have been opened, sinners convinced and converted, backsliders re claimed, and many ofthe classes augmented in't^eir membership. * Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1823, pp. 486-87. t Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1830, p. 731. t The Apostle of Kerry, p. 231. CHAPTER IV.— 1823. 57 Not a jarring string is heard, and our lovefeasts are extremely profitable ; " while in a letter from TuUamore, dated February 11th, Mr. Wiley states that the societies on his circuit were generally increasing both in numbers and in piety. At Edenderry the place of meeting was too small to contain the congregations; but a new chapel was nearly completed, and a society of sixteen members had been formed, within a mile of the town.* It should perhaps be noted here that the chapel in Cookstown, which had been for nearly seven years in the hands of the Primitive Society, was regained by the Wesleyans. The lord of the soil. Colonel Stewart, M.P., having referred the case to Thomas Staples, Esq., K.C., for settlement, he decided that the landlord was bound " to grant a lease to those persons who represented the Conference, and as such were the genuine followers of Wesleyan Methodism." Accordingly, Mr. George Burrows had the gratification of conducting the re-opening service, when he preached from 1 Samuel xii. 24, to a large and attentive congregation. On Sunday moming, June 8th, after a stormy passage of twenty-three hours. Dr. Clarke arrived at Belfast, and preached twice that day in Donegal square chapel, to crowded audiences, including some of the leading clergy and gentry of the town. On the following day, at a social gathering, he met the preachers, stewards, leaders, and principal friends of the Society, and endeavoured to set them right on many matters, on which they had got very uneasy. " It was," he says, " a very solemn and affecting time, and all appeared determined to leave minor matters and considerations, and strive together for the hope of the Gospel, laying themselves out to be more useful to society at large, and to labour more abundantly to bring sinners to God." On some one proposing the question, " Is Methodism now what it was ? " Dr. Clarke answered in a way very different from what had been expected. " No," he said ; " it is more rational, more stable, more consistent, more holy, more useful to the community, and a greater blessing to the world at large ; " and this he found no difficulty in proving. From Belfast the doctor proceeded to Magherafelt, and thence * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1823, p. 179. 58 HISTORY OF METHODISM. to Maghera, where he was earnestly requested to remain for the day and night. Having visited Coleraine, Antrim, and other provincial towns, he reached Dublin, and on the following Sabbath preached from 1st Timothy ii. 8, in Abbey street chapel, " to a noble congregation, solemnly attentive to every word." Owing to the disturbed state of the country, many of the friends thought it would not be safe for him to make his proposed journey in the South, so the preachers met to consult on the question, and make it a subject of prayer. All, except one, thought it not prudent for him to go ; but as Dr. Clarke also did not go with the majority, he started off, and on the 18th arrived at Cork in safety. On the following evening he attended the pubhc anniversary of the Wesleyan Missionary Society. The chapel was very full, the audience most attentive, and a good influence appeared to rest on all present. Of Cork he says, " I find many deeply pious as well as sensible people in this place ; they enter into the spirit of the Gospel, and desire to receive its fulness." On Sunday, 22nd, he preached to very large congregations, from Colossians i. 27, 28, and Eomans i. 16. Next day he went to Bandon, to preach the anniversary sermons of the opening of the new chapel, and says he had one of the loveUest congre gations he had seen in Ireland, and had much freedom and power in urging the exhortation in Jude 20 and 21. The time was solemn, the congregation deeply attentive, and God bore testimony to His own truth. Dr. Clarke then retumed to Dublin, and records the following reflections, as the result of his observations : " The Eoman Catholic population of Ireland is in general in very great misery, and this is chiefly occasioned, not by any political incapacities under which they labour, but through a bad creed, which prevents the cultivation of their minds ; for among the Eoman Catholics education is greatly proscribed, and therefore they know nothing of the management of their own minds, and become the tools of the priests. Thus through want of knowledge the people are easily misled, and through the strength of their passions they are readily employed in acts the most desperate, and schemes the most preposterous." * The Wesleyan Conference commenced on Friday, June 27th. Dr. Clarke presided, and was assisted by the Eev. John Stamp, * Life of Adam Clarke, iii., pp. 49 — 66. CHAPTER IV. — 1823. 59 whom the British Conference had appointed to accompany him for that purpose. The Eev. Samuel Wood was elected secretary. The usual business was transacted with the utmost harmony and affection, and the gracious presence of God was largely ex perienced. Nathaniel Hobart of the Dunmore mission, who had been called out during the year as a supply on the Dungannon circuit, was admitted as having travelled twelve months ; and John S. Wilson of Hacketstown, John Haire of Sligo, Henry Price, James B. Gillman, and Fossey Tackaberry were received on trial. One death was reported, that of William Copeland, who, after much suffering, endured with great patience, had quietly fallen asleep in Jesus on Sunday, September 22nd, 1822, aged forty years. There was a decrease in the membership of six hundred and seventy-nine, which, together with the state of the country, is thus referred to in the Address to the British Conference : " We cannot but feel pained that, after the lapse of another year, the spirit of insurrectionary faction has not subsided in our country. In some districts outrages very disgraceful to our national character, have prevailed to an alarming extent. It was hoped that a lenient administration of our salutary laws, together with the prompt benevolence of Great Britain in the day of adversity and famine, would have checked the progress of crime, and have aUayed those prejudices which have been kept aUve by designing men ; but we regret that in the attainment of this desirable object we have been disappointed. Many of our beloved brethren, in the disturbed parts, have been exposed to imminent danger. They have not, however, in any instance declined from thefr regular course, nor shrunk from the call of their ministerial duty. And though ' in joumeyings often, in perils by our own countrymen, in weariness and painfulness, in watchings often,' yet God hath made a way for our escape, comforted us in our tribulations, and preserved us to the praise of His glory. Notwithstanding that undeniable facts afford a gloomy repre sentation of the state of our beloved country, we are not in despair, but indulge the encouraging anticipation of beholding a brighter scene, when we shaU be made 'glad according to the days wherein we have been afflicted and the years wherein we have seen evil,' and when, after; having 'sown in 60 HISTORY OF METHODISM. tears,' we shall ' reap in joy.' This expectation is considerably strengthened by many gracious visitations vouchsafed to our con gregations during the past year, and by a deepening of the work in many of our Societies. Our decrease in numbers must be attributed, not to a decUne of the work of God, but to a variety of local circumstances, which have unsettled many families, and to emigration, by which alone we have been deprived of nearly five hundred of our dear people. The report of our Irish mission has this year afforded increasing satisfaction. God has blessed the labours of our missionaries, and new and promising openings present themselves. We have made considerable improvement on the stations, by increasing the number of our preachers, and confining and concentrating their labours." * Two new committees of ministers and laymen were appointed at this Conference — one to carry into more effectual operation the resolutions of the preceding Conference for promoting Sunday- schools, and the other for " selecting and providing tracts " for distribution throughout the country, f As to public services, we observe that on Sunday, June 29th, Dr. Clarke preached from John iv. 24, in Abbey street chapel, to an exceedingly large congregation. He says he had reason to believe that not a few of his deeply attentive hearers, during the discourse, " came even unto His seat, and received both light and knowledge." On the following Sabbath the learned doctor occupied the pulpit of Whitefriar street chapel, and selected for his text Philippians i. 9 — 11. "A vast crowd of people of all distinc tions — clergy, ministers, and some functionaries of state " — were present. At the ordination service "the congregation was large and earnestly attentive," each candidate, with the utmost sim plicity of spirit, narrated his religious experience, and the President used the form of the Church in ordaining priests. The hearers were all much affected and edified, and the preachers found it to be a time of fresh anointing from God. The annual public meeting of the Missionary Society proved an occasion of much interest and profit. And when the business of the Conference ended the members partook of the Lord's Supper together, and it was also a time of great refreshing from the presence of the Lord. The members of the Primitive Wesleyan Conference, number- * Minutes of the Irish Conference, ii,, pp. 140-43. -|- Ibid, p. 107. CHAPTER IV. — 1823. 61 ing nearly sixty, assembled on June 25th, with the Eev. Adam Averell in the chair, and Mr. Eobert Smith secretary. There had been one death in the ranks of the itinerants — that of William Little, a man of zeal and integrity, who after a painful and protracted affliction, borne with Christian fortitude, died in peace. A decrease of three hundred and ten was reported in the member ship, which was attributed solely to the distresses and distrac tions of the country, which had compelled hundreds of the members to seek a more peaceful asylum in a distant land. During the year many new channels had been opened for conveying the stream of Gospel truth, and several new Societies had been formed. In considering the general state of the cause, the Con ference found occasion of thankfulness in the degree of stabiUty with which the great Head of the Church had so blessed them. Through the zealous exertions of the stewards and representatives, the Connexion was kept free from debt, except for the erection of new buildings. During the year preaching-houses had been opened at Waterford, Mountrath, Ballyshannon, Strangford, and Moate. Numerous and attentive auditories were present at the various public services, and the presence of the Lord was specially manifested at the meeting for receiving the preachers who had passed the usual term of probation. At the Conference lovefeast cheering information was given of the progress of the work on several circuits, and of some blessed revivals in which many had been converted to God. During the sessions of the Conference the attention of the preachers and representatives was particularly directed to the necessity of encouraging, by every means in their power, the study of the Holy Scriptures, and also the promotion of Sunday-schools, in order to which special public meetings were held. The state of Ireland evidently occupied the serious attention of the British Conference, and led to the employment of additional preachers. Hence we find the following passage in the Answer to the Address of the Irish Conference : " Convinced as we are of the inadequacy of the present means to the mental and moral wants of a vast portion of the population of Ireland, who are perishing for lack of knowledge, we have agreed to increase the number of Irish missionaries from eleven to twenty-one, who are to preach (as much as possible in the Irish language) to these of your 62 HISTORY OF METHODISM. countrymen who could not otherwise enjoy a regular ministry of the word, and to establish day-schools, in addition to those already under your care, for the instruction of children in the principles of our holy reUgion." The Eev. Valentine Ward was appointed to visit the mission-stations for the purpose of encouraging the opening of these schools, and inspecting those previously esta blished. The special object of these humble institutions was to combine religious with secular instruction in remote and sparsely populated regions. The teachers were nearly all local preachers, and proved in many instances eminently useful. Fossey Tackaberry was appointed to Queen's county, and his very " entrance in " was not " in vain." Early in August he writes that he had already witnessed three conversions. Soon afterwards, at Mountrath, having preached three times to large congregations, one Sabbath, and met two classes, he announced a prayer-meeting, inviting the penitents to come to it on the following morning. The power of the Lord was present to heal — four persons obtained pardoning mercy, and several followed the young preacher to a place within two miles of the town, where, at class-meeting, after the public service, a young man professed to have received the evidence of his acceptance with God. A Uttle later Mr. Tackaberry writes, " Our circuit is certainly looking up. One Sabbath evening I preached in Abbeyleix, on Eevelation vi. 17. Two young men were awakened under that sermon, one of whom found peace two weeks subsequently, the other is still seeking. They are both the sons of leaders, and both began at once to meet in class." On Christmas day the congregations in Mountrath were unusually large, and the indications hopeful. At the lovefeast on the following day Mr. Downing preached, Mr. Tackaberry says, one of the best sermons he ever heard ; and such an overwhelming sense of the Divine presence was felt in the after-meeting as he had not witnessed before in this district of country. Nearly all present declared they never were so happy previously, and many in the classes began to speak of entire sanctification. One of those converted at Abbeyleix was Eobert Dobbs, who twelve years subsequently was appointed a leader, and for thirty-five years— untU the Lord called him hence— discharged the duties of his office with marked fidelity and acceptance.''- * Irish Evangelist, I87I, p. 72. CHAPTER IV. — 1823. 63 On October 30th Charles Graham writes, from Athlone, " Mr. Banks has been very ill, and I hear Mr. Steele is not well. We had the Eev. Valentine Ward here, and he gave great satisfaction to all who heard him. I have been preaching a good deal in Irish at some of my places. There is a Eoman Catholic young man who hears me ; he has bought a Bible, and now doubts the Eomish doctrines. The army seems much on the alert." The Eev. William Eeilly, who was stationed on the Galway and Eoscommon mission, visited Sligo, where he not only preached, but also spoke with great effect at a meeting of the Bible Society, presided over by Lord Eoden, and also addressed by the Eev. William Urwick. As Mr. Eeilly returned home, when near Boyle, a shot was fired at either him or his horse, but providentially neither was injured.* " The Angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them." Messrs. George Burrows and John Armstrong were appointed to the Monaghan and Aughnacloy circuit. The former says, "The Lord granted us peace and some degree of prosperity, although throughout this country the spirit of division had spread its influence, and its wounds rankled." Mr. Armstrong, however, gives fuller details. Of Aughnacloy he observes, " Never was I better pleased with any Society than this. Here we have'sincerity, simplicity, respectability, and genuine piety. There is a large congregation, about fifty in Society, besides a class of twenty children, and six houses to lodge the preachers. We have also nearly one hundred subscribers of one penny each weekly to the missions ; and this work is managed by a committee of ladies, Mrs. Captain Moore being president, Mrs. M'Adam treasurer, and Miss M'Kay secretary." At Eockcorry he states, " We have a few steady friends, a good congregation, and an excellent house of worship." Concerning Kilmore he writes, " It is a long time since the Gospel was first preached in this village, and though Methodism has not made the progress it might have done, yet many have gone from this village to their reward through the labours of the Society." In Lisnawery and Hamilton's Bawn, he says, " there are large congregations of attentive hearers," while of the Society he had formed at the latter, three years previously, the majority stood firm, and now consisted of two classes, with forty * Irish Evangelist, 1868, p. 140. 64 HISTORY OF METHODISM. members. He seldom had been in a town so free from prejudice as Augher, so that in visiting from house to house he was kindly received by every one except one young man, who when invited to the service, said, "Bad as I am, 1 am not that bad yet." At DeiTyroosk a new class of fourteen members was started, and at AghnamuUen an old one that had been reduced to one, Hugh Wilson, was increased to twenty-five or thirty. One of these, brought into connection with Methodism and converted, was a young man named James Hughes, who subsequently entered the itinerancy, and rendered long and valuable service to the cause. There was a blessed revival of religion in the district of country about Ballynacoy, and many became anxious about salvation, and united themselves to the people of God. The holy fire spread from place to place, until large numbers were turned " from dark ness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God." This gracious movement resulted to a great degree from the Divine blessing on the Sunday-school, where it appears to have originated, and by means of which the people were prepared for it.* The reports from various circuits of the Primitive Wesleyan Society, during the second six months of this year, were of a most cheering character. From Enniskillen Mr. Buttle writes that at the September quarterly meetings the Holy Spirit was present, both to wound and to heal. Thus a gracious religious awakening commenced, during which many were tumed to the Lord. These included some of the most abandoned sinners. One old gentle man, in particular, who had been a cock-fighter and most ungodly, was made the subject of Divine grace, and became as remarkable for devotedness to God as he had been for recklessness and sin. Concerning Maguiresbridge Mr. William Browne reports that the greater part of the circuit was prospering, and that many souls had been brought to a saving knowledge of God. Mr. Pattyson, who was appointed to Newtownstewart, states that his circuit was fiourishing ; they had formed four or five new classes ; the congregations in Strabane, Fintona, and Newtownstewart were considerably increased, and the word preached did not fall to the ground. Mr. Eichard Eobinson of Belfast says, " We have an increase of thirty members since Conference. This, with the * Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1853, pp. 515-16. CHAPTER IV. 1823. 65 opening of our new chapel in Antrim, where the prospect is delightful, and the putting up of a gallery in our house in Belfast has given additional extension and permanence to our cause in these parts." From the south and west the intelligence was equally en couraging. In Waterford Mr. Eevington found the congregations and the Sunday-school, established by Mr. West, increasing, and many members added to the Society. At Bandon it appeared that the good work deepened and spread. There was scarcely a class which had not some additional members, and some new preaching-places were opened in the adjoining country. Similar reports were also sent from Longford, Clonmel, Cloughjordan, and Eoscrea, while in Dublin " crowded and serious auditories attended the ministry of the word." * -* Primitire Wesleyan Mctho.H.it Magazine, 1823, pp. 357-59. VOL. III. CHAPTEE V. 1824. Early in the year 1824 death made sad havoc in the ranks of the Wesleyan preachers, no less than three being called hence within about as many months. The first of these was the fearless and faithful Samuel Steele, who in DubUn, on January 10th, in the meridian of his strength and influence, died in the full triumph of faith. His remains were interred, amid the tears and lamenta tions of thousands, in the Cabbage Garden ; and a funeral sermon was preached for him, by the Eev. Samuel Wood, in Whitefriar street chapel, to a vast congregation, including ministers, stewards, leaders, members of the Strangers' Friend Society, and children of the Orphan School. The second death was that of a humble and devoted man, WilUam Gilcriest, who, owing to serious illness, had been obliged to retire from the active work two years pre viously, but having somewhat recovered, went to fiU a vacancy on the Manorhamilton circuit, where he got cold from hardship, and on February 25th, at SwanUnbar, died in peace. The third of those removed to their eternal reward was Charles Graham, an aged veteran, who having travelled as a missionary for nearly thfrty-four years, died at Athlone on April 23rd, in holy triumph. " His powerful appeals to street congregations were pathetic, and sometimes overwhelming; the multitudes heard, trembled, and fell before him." Some cheering gUmpses are given of the labours and successes of those engaged in the work of the itinerancy. The Eev. Fossey Tackaberry writes, "Although I cannot say with BramweU, 'I see some saved every night,' thank God, I can say I see some saved every round." Again, "The Mountrath meeting was a blessed one indeed. Many declared that they never had seen such a meeting previously. Our house, ground floor and gaUery, CHAPTER v.— 1824. 67 was very full during the lovefeast, and all felt that God was there. We had a few testimonies to entire sanctification, and several hungering after it ; and we had a cloud of witnesses clearly testifying that Christ hath power on earth to forgive sins. Two received a conscious pardon during the meeting. Mr. Downing says he saw nothing Uke it since he came, nor does he think the cfrcuit was in so good a state these ten years." While at Abbeyleix, such was the prosperity of the cause that the erection of a new chapel was rendered necessary, for which a suitable site, on easy terms, was obtained from Lord De Vesci, and the project carried out.* The Eev. John Armstrong writes, " February Sth. This day we had the Sacrament in Monaghan for the first time. At preaching the house was filled, and between forty and fifty came forward to the Lord's table. It was a time of refreshing." And again, " In Monaghan we are rising in every sense. We have got a tract society formed, with Samuel Eichardson as president, and Thomas Hetherington, who has lately joined us, as secretary." While at Castleblayney, in the neat chapel recently erected, there was a large congregation. f Even at this early period an eamest effort was made to arrest the progress of intemperance, profanity, and Sabbath desecration. At Bandon a number of leading Methodists, including John Wheeler SuUivan and George Harris, consented to act as over seers, and see that the laws with regard to profane swearing, the observance of the Lord's day, and the hours for the sale of intoxicating drinks were enforced. Many delinquents were summoned before the magistrates and fined, which resulted in a considerable and marked improvement in the morality of the town. These faithful maintainers of law and order continued thefr labours until they were rendered unnecessary by the appoint ment of paid police. Meanwhile, however, a considerable sum of money was obtained from fines, and this was applied to the estabUshment of a loan fund, which has proved a means of still further benefit. The Committee appointed in 1822 for the liquidation of the debt of the Wesleyan Connexion issued its report this spring, * Life and Labours of Eev. F. Tackaberry, pp. 82-5. f Unpublished Diary of Eev. J. Armstrong. 68 HISTORY OF METHODISM. signed by Henry Heney, secretary. From this document it appears that it had been hoped that a sum of £1,000 would have been raised annually by special subscriptions, which in eight years would have relieved the Society of its liabilities ; but this expecta tion was not realized. However, during the year 1822-23 nearly five hundred pounds was collected, and applied to the object contemplated. It was then proposed to borrow money from such friends as might be disposed to lend, free of interest, to invest it, and repay it at the end of ten years ; but this expedient failed. The first plan was therefore again adopted, and an earnest appeal made for practical assistance. The Committee had also entered into a correspondence with the creditors, in order, if possible, to reduce the rate of interest from six to five per cent., and met with an encouraging reception. The Wesleyan Conference met on June 25th. The Eev. Henry Moore presided, and was accompanied by the Eevs. Eobert Newton, Valentine Ward, and Joseph Taylor. The Eev. Andrew Hamilton, jun., was elected secretary. Of fifteen candidates proposed for the ministry, six received appointments. These were Claudius Byrne, James Patterson, James Sullivan and Joseph Crofts of the Newtownbarry circuit, Eobert Beauchamp of Limerick, and John Nash. The health of Crofts gave way during the year, so that he was obliged at length to retire from the work, and a few years later he died happy in God. After filUng up the vacancies occasioned in the membership by deaths, emigrations, which had largely prevailed, and other causes, there was a small increase; while it was found that an increasing spfrit of unity prevailed in the societies, pecuniary embarrassments were considerably lessened, and the Head of the Church smiled on the labours of His servants. The pain and depression of the long-continued agitation appeared to have passed away, and a cheerful tone was observable every where. At the previous Conference a Sunday-school Committee had been appointed, and this year appear in the Minutes, doubtless as the result of its work, the first authoritative statistics of the number of Methodist Sunday-schools and scholars, being one hundred and thirty-eight schools, and nine thousand one hundred and ninety-one scholars ; but the Committee was not reappointed. It was arranged that the Conferences should thenceforward meet CHAPTER V. — 1824. 69 in Cork and Belfast as well as in Dublin. The annual missionary meeting, held in Abbey Street Chapel, proved a service of unusual interest. The President of the Conference occupied the chair, and addresses were deUvered to a large audience by the Eevs. Eobert Newton, B. W. Mathias, and Valentine Ward, together with James Heald, Esq. The Primitive Wesleyan Conference met on June 30th, and nearly sixty preachers and lay representatives were present. George Emerson of Bandon, James Morrow of Ballyjamesduff, Eobert Kane of Clones, Daniel Henderson of Ballyconnell, Edward Sullivan of Ballyshannon, and James Craig of Charlemont were received on trial. There was a decrease of six hundred and ninety-three in the total number of members. " The reports of the missionaries respecting the progress of religion, on their different stations, however, were of the most cheering nature." Two large public meetings were held, at which important speeches were delivered on the subject of education, and from which good results were anticipated. Although no death had taken place during the year in the ranks of the itinerants, the Conference had not long concluded its sittings when one of the members, Alexander Anderson, was suddenly called hence. He was on his way to his new circuit, and having travelled safely as far as Downpatrick, his horse took fright, and he was so injured that he survived only an hour. His last words were, " Blessed be God, I have peace through our Lord Jesus Christ." For some years prior to this period the Methodist New Connexion had a few congregations in Ulster, the people being assisted in the maintenance of their preachers by their friends in England. But this year the Conference selected this country as a field :of missionary enterprise. The following resolution, which was adopted, indicates the new arrangement: "The Conference, sincerely deploring the ignorance, superstition, and misery preva lent in Ireland, and beUeving that a field there presents itself in which the Methodists of the New Connexion, as well as Christians of other denominations, may exert themselves to advance the interests of the Eedeemer's kingdom and promote the salvation of immortal souls, resolves, That the institution denominated the ' Home Missionary Society ' be henceforth exclusively devoted to the support of missionary labours in Ireland." The Conference 70 HISTORY OF METHODISM. of the following year developed the plan in its details, appointed a committee to conduct the business of the mission, and resolved on sending an EngUsh preacher to superintend the labours of the missionaries. The first recorded pubUe missionary meeting in Bandon was held on August 26th, when it was reported that £78 had been raised on the circuit, during the previous year, for the funds of the Society. The Eev. Henry Deery presided, and addresses were deUvered by the Eevs. Matthew Tobias, Thomas Lougheed, John WUson, jun., and Matthew Lanktree, jun., together with Messrs. Thomas Bennett, William Barry, and Thomas Beamish, f On the illness and death of Mrs. William Barry, in this town, her class was placed under the care of Miss Eliza AUworth, a most devoted and exemplary member of the Society. She sustained with zeal and efficiency the office to which she was thus called for nearly forty-three years, when she was taken to the Church above. Her father had been a very wicked man, but, in infinite mercy, was at length converted, so that his excellent wife could joyfully and gratefully say, " The lion has become a lamb.' Miss Jane AUworth was also deeply pious, and a very beautiful singer. With such sweetness, pathos, and power was she wont to sing for Jesus that the memory of anthems and other sacred songs, sung by her, is still fresh and fragrant in the town. Her career, however, was much shorter than that of her sister. In the west, on the Skibbereen circuit, a youth was led to religious decision, and since then he has rendered most important and valuable service to Irish Methodism. James H. Swanton had been in the habit of attending meetings in the house of his grandfather at Gortnagrough, and having heard that a service was about to be held by a queer man at Lisheenacrehig, he, accom panied by a Eoman Catholic, went to hear the stranger, WilUam Feckman. The word preached was accompanied with marveUous power ; every one present seemed to be deeply impressed, and amongst others, young Swanton was awakened to a sense of his sinfulness and danger, and on his retum home threw himself on his knees before the throne of mercy, and after some time reaUzed peace and joy in believing. The Eomanist, who also went to the * Jubilee of the Methodist New Connexion, p. 169. t Wesleyan Methodist 3Iagazine, 1824, p. 785. CHAPTER V. — 1824. 71 service, subsequently emigrated to America, joined the Methodist Church, and died rejoicing in the Lord his Saviour. The Eev. Eobert Banks was appointed a supernumerary, and settled in Athy. The cause was then very low in the town, but now soon revived. There was a rent on the chapel of £3 or £4 per annum, which had been aUowed to remain unpaid until it amounted to £40 or £50, due to the landlord, the Duke of Devon- shfre. Mr. Banks took this matter up, waited on his Grace when he came to the town, and laid the case before him. The Duke said he would look at the chapel, came down and entered it, took off his hat reverently, and at length said, " No claim shaU be made for the amount due, and the rent in future shall be only twenty shiUings per annum." The Sunday-school, held in the chapel, was under the superintendence of the Eev. Frederick S. Trench, one of the curates, whUe the other, the Eev. Mr. Bristow, frequently attended the preaching services, and even waited for class-meeting. When asked why he did so, he repUed, " Many of my people go there, and I must hear what is said to them." Mr. Trench subsequently .became narrow and exclusive in his views and removed the school, so the Methodists separated from the Church, and prospered. The Eev. Fossey Tackaberry was appointed to the Boyle and KiUashandra circuit, where although there was much to discourage, the prospects soon began to brighten. In October he writes of " encouraging hopes of a revival," " great congregations," and " an unusual sense of the Divine presence," and in Carrick-on-Shannon, where a chapel had been erected two years previously, " a great outcry." A month later, he says, there was " no small stir " in several localities. " We have blessed prospects. The congrega tions are amazing, especially in Carrick-on-Shannon, and some have joined the class there every week, for some time. There is a marveUous move among the people." * The Eev. Matthew Lanktree, sen., was appointed to the Bally mena mission, which included a considerable portion of the counties of Antrim and Derry, and found that while a few societies did well, the cause in general was low. Soon, however, the Lord revived His work. Indications of the approaching religious awakening first appeared in connection with the happy death of * Life and Labours of Eev. F. Tackaberry, pp. 85-89. 72 HISTOEY OF METHODISM. Thomas Moore, one of the oldest leaders in the town. His mantle seemed to faU on the young people who knew him, several of whom joined the Society, and began to run for the prize of their high calling. A few backsliders also, who had wandered from God and withdrawn from association with His people, were restored to the joys of His salvation. At BeUaghy, Castledawson, and Mag herafelt " blessed doors of usefulness were opened," and the Lord poured out His Spirit in converting power. To such an extent did the work increase and extend that an earnest application was made to the Missionary Committee for help. When this faUed, recourse was made to prayer, that the Lord of the harvest would send forth labourers, and not in vain. A Mr. John Peters joined the Society, took charge of a mission school, and rendered valuable help in con ducting services in the neighbourhood of Carnlea. In Castledawson Mr. John Saul, then a revenue officer, came to the assistance of the missionaries, and proved a zealous labourer in the vineyard, and George Keevan, another local preacher, was also raised up. At Magherafelt the services were held in the school-house, an inconvenient place, in a narrow lane ; but the Lord did not despise the day of small things, nor withhold His presence and blessing. The schoolmaster, Mr. James Seymour, preached with success, and Mr. Andrew Campbell,* who subsequently entered the ministry of the Established Church, began to exercise his talents with accept ance. The httle thatched house of worship at Bellaghy became too small for the people who thronged to the services, and Provi dence opened the way for securing larger and better premises.! The accounts furnished by the Primitive Wesleyan preachers, of their work, were encouraging. Mr. William Pattyson says that the September quarterly meetings at Newtownstewart, Strabane, and Fintona were largely attended and greatly acknowledged of God, so that at each souls were won for Christ. Such a blessed and cheering service as that at Fintona the itinerant had not attended during the thirteen years he had been a Methodist, while throughout the circuit there was a marked increase of vital godliness. On the Clones circuit Mr. John Mallin secured the services of an additional preacher, in order that he himself might be free to give himself wholly to missionary work. He was thus * Son of the Eev. Archibald Campbell. f Lanktree's Narrative, pp. 329-33. CHAPTER V. — 1824. 73 enabled to open twenty-six new preaching-places, and to form six new classes, with about one hundred members. Amongst other places, the servant of God visited CootehiU, where the Society had no cause, preached in the Presbyterian meeting-house, and arranged for a service to be held every Sunday moming by one of the leaders, who travelled nine miles for that purpose.* The Society had for some time been looking out for a suitable site on which to erect a preaching-house in Monaghan, and at length having secured one, IMr. Eichard Jackson built a neat and com modious chapel, at a cost of about three hundred pounds. Four teen years previously a school was also erected in the town by this generous Christian gentleman. In 1821 he built a second and larger one, and some years subsequently he paid half the expense of building a chapel at Clontibret, the remaining portion being given by Mr. Andrew Swanzy.f The preaching-house at Monaghan was opened on Sunday, November 14th, by the Eev. Adam AvereU. At Portstewart a neat chapel was opened on Sunday, September 26th, by the Eev. Charles Mayne, who preached an excellent sermon, from Genesis xxviii. 17, to a large and deeply attentive congregation. This was the first place of worship built in the village, and was erected on a good site, which, with a handsome subscription, was the gift of Mr. John Cromie.| The Eev. George Blorley, one of the general secretaries of the Missionary Society, having been appointed by the Conference to visit the mission-stations in Ireland, did so in October, and the following particulars are taken from his report : At Dunlavin, to which the Eev. Andrew Taylor had been appointed, on his entering on his work three months previously, there was not a chapel or room to preach in or a member to receive him ; but now he preached in seven villages, had many attentive hearers, and twenty who met in class. At Killaloe and Kilrush two young meu were diligently employed in preaching to eighteen congrega tions, many of whom otherwise would have been entirely neglected. On the Galway station each of the missionaries, the Eevs. John Feely and James Sullivan, travelled more than two hundred and fifty miles each month, and preached to eighteen * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1824, pp. 364-65. t Ihid, 1834, pp. 170-4. J Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1825, p. 338. 74 HISTORY OF METHODISM. congregations, with about five hundred hearers. During the quarter forty-three members had been admitted into the Society, and thirty on trial. At Banagher the Eev. Arthur Noble had nine congregations and four schools, with two hundred and sixty-six scholars, one hundred and forty-nine of whom were the children of Eoman Catholic parents. At Trim Mr. Morley heard the general missionaries preach in the street, and says it was solemn and affecting to hear them read verse after verse of the 10th of Eomans, Ouseley in the Douay, and John S. Wilson in the Authorized Version, while the former made comments on each passage.* While Mr. Feely was on the above mission the following incident occurred : One day, on visiting the marble quarries at Oughterard, he was courteously received by a gentleman connected with the property, and shown many of the exquisite specimens. As he left, the missionary remarked, " This place reminds me of the New Testament." " How so ? " inquired the other. " Be cause the exterior is plain and unpromising, but within it is full of wealth and beauty." This observation so impressed the gentle man that he invited the stranger to Oughterard House, where he was kindly and cordially received. Here, it soon appeared, a Eomish ecclesiastic had also gained access, and ingratiated himself among the younger members of this Protestant family. One young lady in particular, under the persuasion that she must inevitably perish unless she belonged to the Catholic Church, he had all but won over to Popery. Mr. Feely not only disabused her mind, but furnished her with inquiries and arguments which the emissary of Eome was unable to answer, and thus an accom plished young lady was rescued from soul-destroying error, and won for Christ. t Promoters of the circulation of the Word of God. and of Scriptural education were now specially active. PubUc meetings were held in nearly every town and village, for the establishment of branches of the Bible Society or for the reception of annual reports, and at these services the speakers generally expatiated with great force on the claims of the sacred volume, the right f all to read it, and the importance of its universal diffusion. * Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1824, pp. 857-58, t Irish Evangelist, 1861, p, 145. CHAPTER V. — 1824. 75 These statements were exceedingly grating to the Eomish clergy, and the success of the circulators of the Word of God alarmed them, so the priests in various places attended the meetings and attempted to interrupt the proceedings. They were, in con sequence, challenged to discuss the right and duty of the laity to search the Scriptures, and public disputations on the subject were held at Kilkenny, Carlow, Carrick-on-Shannon, Easky, and else where. Ouseley was present, and assisted at Carrick-on-Shannon, but was not permitted by the priests to take any public part. The discussion at Easky took place in the Eoman Catholic chapel, was continued for two days, and the speakers were three priests, two Scripture-readers, who had been Methodists, but were now employed by the Congregationalists, the Eev. Mr. M'Keague and the Eev. WilUam Urwick. The results of these controversies were most favourable to the Eeformed faith, as prejudices were removed, a spirit of inquiry awakened, and the demand for the Bible con siderably increased. Of the discussion at Carrick-on-Shannon Ouseley says, "The effect was noble. That night not less than fifty Eomanists came to hear me in our chapel, and the next night still more ; and one of them, a merchant, said, ' Henceforth no priest shall hinder me from hearing the Bible ; no, never.' " During winter Mr. Ouseley, by direction of the Conference, visited Connaught and Munster, in reference to some chapels he had erected in these provinces, more especially one at Kilchreest, to regain possession of which he had to take legal proceedings. In Mayo several Eomanists who had previously heard him preach in the streets now ventured into the house where he conducted services, and gladly listened again to the message of mercy. Some of these joined the Society, the attachment of others to thefr superstitions was shaken, and many appeared prepared for the reception of the truth. The servant of God was not, however, permitted to pursue his labours without opposition. At Monaghan, as he stood to preach, a fellow came towards him as if to hear, and then struck him so violently that respiration for a time was suspended. The ruffian then attempted to repeat the blow, but was seized by the people. When able to speak, Ouseley's first words were, " Do him no harm ; he did it because he was drunk, and he will be sorry for it." At Kilrush the mob were urged to attack the missionary, by a bigoted priest. 76 HISTORY OF METHODISM. who assured them that the law would not touch them. So when the servant of God attempted to preach he was received with loud shouts and a volley of stones. The police hastened to the spot, but they also were assailed, and, bruised and wounded, compelled to retire. The local magistrates held a court to investigate the cause of the riot and punish the rioters ; but the priest entered, insulted the bench, and demanded an adjourn ment. This was granted, and on the following day a similar travesty of justice took place. Thus the magistrates were brow beaten at two sittings, and prevented from acting according to their view of what was right. It is worthy of note that this priest, though then apparently in perfect health, died soon after wards, and this was regarded by many as a judgment from God. CHAPTEE VI. 1825. During the early portion of 1825 Gideon Ouseley laboured chiefly in the counties of Cavan and Monaghan. As the Protest ant population, in this part of the country, was about equal to that of the Eoman Catholic, and the influence of the priests, on that account, less powerful, he preached with little interruption, and in general to large congregations. "My health and strength," he says, " continue unabated, though now in my sixty- fourth year, and I continue to preach in the markets, fairs, and streets, to listening crowds, when practicable." It is interesting to observe the ardour with which this veteran of the Cross prosecuted his arduous work. Every day, sometimes twice and thrice, he min istered the word of Ufe. At one time we find him on horseback, away from the hurry and bustle of a market, yet where numbers of Eomanists could hear him, at another time in the midst of a fair ; in one place at the close of the day, by the light of a lamp, opening his commission to a large audience, and in another quarter singing in the moonlight, until " the people crept out and gathered round him," and he preached unto them Jesus. Nor did drizzling rain or bitter cold deter him from his work or deprive him of his congregations. On one occasion he rode into the market of Ballyjamesduff in very severe weather, and addressed a great concourse of people, chiefly Eomanists. His text was John xx. 23, which afforded him an opportunity of dwelling at length on the claims of the priests to forgive sins, yet the people listened with remarkable attention. Not a frown was on any brow, serious ness appeared on each countenance, and during the concluding prayer every head was uncovered.* * Eeilly's Memorial of Ouseley, pp. 2' 413 though not an enrolled member, is an attached friend. I spent some happy days among them, and not without the seal of the Spfrit on the word preached. Great grace was upon them all," Mr. Eeilly also narrates a remarkable instance of recovery from insanity that occurred. One day a gentleman, Mr. Warren, from the county of Wexford, in great trouble, called on him and said, " I have just left my dear wife at the Asylum, and wish greatly you would visit her. They tell me you cannot see her for a month, but if after that time you would visit her I shall feel deeply indebted to you." As Mr. Eeilly had known the family before, he felt especially interested in the case. Before the month expired he sought an opportunity of seeing the poor patient, and succeeded. She was in the refractory ward, was very restless, and could hardly be kept by the nurse from tearing off her clothes. At first all that the servant of God said seemed to make no impression on her mind. He then read a portion of John xiv,, but it also appeared to fail in arresting her attention, so he left in despair. The next time he called all his efforts seemed equally hopeless. At length he thought her attention could be arrested by repeating something she had heard or known before, and therefore said, "I suppose you recollect the little hymn be ginning 'When I can read my title clear,' that you learned in the Sunday-school ? " and as he went on repeating it her counte nance lost its rigidity and her face softened, so that when he came to the last verse the fountain was broken up, her bosom heaved, and the big tears rolled down her cheeks, while she exclaimed " Oh, my husband, my dear husband, that I would go through the world with, was here two days ago, and I would not speak to him ! " She then proceeded, with perfect calmness, to say that she remembered everything Mr. Eeilly had said to her, repeated the part of the fourteenth chapter of John he had read, and gave every indication of a complete recovery. Two weeks later she retumed to her family and friends, and Mr. EeiUy never heard of any relapse.* The Eevs. William M'Garvey and Eobert ColUer were appointed to the Downpatrick circuit, on which Mr. Collier says he was at first much, discouraged at not seeing fruit to his labours. At length one Sunday at Portaferry, after an apparently fruitless * Unpublished papers of Eev. W. Eeilly. 414 HISTOEY OF METHODISM. day's work, and after spending some time in prayer, he made a full consecration of his all to God, and obtained the assurance that he was fully saved. The Divine blessing rested signally on this act and the eamest labours that followed it, so that a blessed revival commenced on the circuit, more especially in the neighbourhood of Saintfield, some of the fruits of which remain until this day. A very gracious awakening also took place in the neighbour hood of CorUsbrattan, on the Killashandra circuit, of which the Eevs. Nathaniel Hobart and John C. Storey were the ministers. Messrs. Thomas Cooke, William C. Doonan, Charles Wood, John Wilson, and Wilson J. Storey threw themselves heartily into the good work, and took a leading part in its promotion. Often from six to twelve persons were converted at one of the cottage meetings. Nor were the labours of the Primitive Wesleyan Society with out cheering tokens of the Lord's blessing. From the Meath mission Mr. Abraham Dawson writes, " We have had blessed meetings since Conference. On one occasion, after preaching, we held a prayer-meeting, when fifty persons came forward as penitents, and several professed to have obtained peace vrith God, through our Lord Jesus Christ. In another place there were about forty earnest seekers of salvation, while on other occasions and in other meetings from five to twenty were brought by the power of the Spirit into a similar hopeful state. Two of the new classes formed lately are doing well, increasing in numbers, and growing in grace. About six weeks ago Mr. James Eobinson, sen., came to supply the place of Mr. William Scott (2nd), and his labours have been much owned of God." Mr. Alexander Campbell of Eoscommon says, " We rejoice to find that the labours of the brethren who preceded us were acknowledged of the Lord in the awakening and conversion of sinners, and the work is progressing. At Keenagh and Mohill it is our custom to hold revival meetings, after preaching, and in these many persons have found peace with God. We have witnessed the conversion of some with regard to whom we had providential indications of a hopeful character previously, and for whom Christian friends had interceded in prayer. We are cheered exceedingly to find the work of conversion begun in CHAPTEE XXXI. — 1850. 415 sequestered parts of our field of labour, and to see the prospect of further manifestations of mercy. Since the Conference three new classes have been formed, and another is being resumed. Many of the members have obtained the Divine favour, and others are under hopeful influences. Our old classes also have received additional members, some of whom give promise of much usefulness. On no previous occasion have we seen such a dis position ih the Eomanists to attend the preaching of the word as since we came to this country, particularly in the county of Leitrim. In one or two instances the Gospel has proved to be to them ' good tidings of great joy.' The priests, and some of the people, are stirred up to declare their enmity to the truth by resorting to personal intimidation. A few days ago three priests from Mohill proceeded to the neighbourhood of our school at Curraun, and by coercion prevailed in making nearly all the Eomish parents who had children at our school remove them forthwith, which they did to the number of seventy. However, there was one girl who had been recently converted, and she refused to withdraw from the school, though threatened with more than priestly authority." * In the providence of God, the attention of Mr. D. D. Heather was directed to Scotland, as a country in which, if the operations of the Society were known, important financial assistance would be given. Accordingly he went over to Glasgow, presented the claims of Irish Methodist missions, and his appeals were responded to by many. Other parts of the kingdom were also visited, with encouraging success, and cordial invitations to return were given. Thus commenced a series of annual visits which have proved fruitful of exceedingly valuable monetary help, as well as spiritual good. * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magaz'me, 1850, pp. 450-51. CHAPTER XXXII. 185L On January 13th, 1851, the Eev. Samuel Young writes, "It is a pleasing fact that God is reviving His work in many of the circuits in Ireland"* Details, however, of only one or two religious awakenings are now available. Not less encouraging was the testimony borne by the same devoted minister as to the success of Methodist educational work. " Of the good," he says, " that the schools are effecting, mentally, morally, and spiritually, the half cannot be told. Many of the children have been truly converted to God, and, it is hoped, will become useful members both of civil and religious society." The model school in Dublin, under the able management of Mr. Corrigan, still continued to prosper.! Mrs. Whittaker of Sligo regarded one of the female schools in the town as her special charge, devoting much time and labour to it, in which she accomplished a vast amount of good. In one of her letters she says, with regard to this work, " We have had much to encounter since you were here, but we fear no evil; greater is He that is for us than those against us. In many instances our children give evidence that they are taught of the Lord. One dear child, now dying of asthma, is a marvel of Scripture knowledge and fervent piety, and many Eoman Catholic children are very clear in their views. When asked as to the intercession of saints or angels, they say, ' We have but one Lord, our Saviour, and one Priest, to make atonement or pray for us.' " Early in the year Mr. Henry Cornwall of Bandon visited William H. Quarry, and said to him, " Oh, William, I am so con- * Unpublished letter to the Eev. Thomas Waugh, f Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1851, p. 612, CHAPTER XXXIL — 1851. 417 cerned for the young men in the congregation ! I have been considering what we could do for them, and think if you would invite them all to breakfast in Watergate school-house, on next Sunday moming, I will bear the expense." The proposal was at once accepted, about fifty responded to the invitation, and four teen were that day convinced of sin. This led to a number of Sunday-morning meetings of a similar kind, at which the young men were met by Mr. Henry Cornwall and other leaders, and during which the Spirit of God was poured out in mighty power. The Divine influence was soon felt in the pulpit. The Eev. Henry Price one Sunday astonished the congregation by the fervour and earnestness of his preaching, and before closing his sermon said, "A strange power has come on me this morning that I cannot account for, only I believe some are specially pray ing for me and the work of God." At the conclusion of the service a lady exclaimed, " What in the world happened to Mr. Price to-day ? You would think several times he was about to leap out of the pulpit. I never saw him so earnest before." In connection with these services there were converted a large number of young men, including Edward Harte and William Eeilly Starkey, who subsequently entered the itinerancy, and John H. and WilUam H. Harte, who proved most acceptable and useful local preachers. The Primitive Wesleyan Society well-nigh sustained the serious loss of its Travelling Secretary, Mr. Dawson D. Heather.. In the midst of his earnest and devoted labours in Scotland, while travelling by rail, a collision took place, which resulted in the destruction of a great part of the train and the death of many of the passengers ; but his life was preserved. A gentleman seated beside him was killed on the spot, and Mr. Heather was thrown under a heap of dAbris, while a carriage hung over him, held up by a very slight support. In this painful and perilous position, with his leg fractured and his body crushed, he lay for about three hours, but his mind was kept in perfect peace. He was heard to say afterwards that he was never happier in his life. When help arrived, and wilUng hands endeavoured to extricate the sufferers, attention was dfrected to him ; but the groan of a fellow-sufferer was heard, and the servant of God refused to receive assistance until his companion was attended to, saying, VOL. III. 27 418 HISTORY OF METHODISM. " When you have saved him, then eome to me." * In consequence of the injury received, however, he was obliged at the Conference to become a supernumerary for one year. On June 25th tbe Primitive Wesleyan Conference commenced its sittings in the new school-room. South Great George's street, DubUn. Mr. Alexander Stewart was again elected President, and Mr. Thomas M'Fann re-elected Secretary. On the foUovring Sunday the members, according to old usage, went to St. Patrick's cathedral, received the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and heard an admirable sermon, full of brotherly love and Christian feeUng, preached by the Dean. Two candidates were received on trial — Thomas Hurst and Eobert Johnston ; and two deaths were reported, those of the venerable William Browne of Newtownbutler and George H. Irwin of New Eoss. Mr. James Griffin was appointed TraveUing Secretary for the year. In the Pastoral Address it is said, " On the subject of numbers we have to report a small decrease," sixty-three ; " nor is this much to be wondered at, when the late census shows a decrease in the popula tion of Ireland, during the past ten years, of nearly two millions," Yet the general appearance of the kingdom was regarded as cheTering, for it is stated, " We congratulate our dear brethren on the symptoms of improvement that are now manifesting them selves in reference to our beloved country. The sad and distressing scenes, arising from famine, pestUence, and death, which we witnessed cannot soon be forgotten; but now a better state of things is apparent. Trade and commerce are reviving, the soil is being cultivated with more confidence and hope, and the prospect in reference to the coming harvest is cheering ; so that we may say, in the language of the prophet, ' He hath tom, and He wiU heal us ; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up.' " The Conference of Wesleyan ministers was held in Belfast, under the presidency of the Eev. John Beecham, D.D., who was accompanied from England by the Eevs. Dr. Hannah and Dr. Newton. The preparatory committees commenced thefr sittings on Friday, June 20th, when the chairmen of districts met to review the general condition of the Connexion. It was cheering to find that though the tide of emigration continued to flow with unabated force and the loss in members, from this source alone, * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1862, pp. 366-67 CHAPTER XXXIL — 1851. 419 during the year, had been nine hundred and fifty-one, the net decrease — one hundred and ninety-two — was much less than might have been expected, and considerably below that of the previous few years. On June 24th the Missionary Committee met, and the General Superintendent read communications from the missionaries. It was highly gratifying to find that the missions and schools were in general prosperous, and that the labourers employed had been much encouraged by gracious manifestations of the Divine presence and blessing. At this meeting also an animated discussion took place on the best means of rendering the work more efficient ; several valuable suggestions were made, and these were embodied in a series of resolutions, relating to pastoral visitation of the schools, mission stations becoming cfrcuits, and the appointment of a general missionary to travel on the mission stations. These resolutions were afterwards sub mitted to the Conference and received its sanction. The Conference began on June 25th, with, as usual, an early morning and a noon prayer-meeting. About one hundred ministers were present. It was found that two supernumerary brethren — the Eevs. John Campbell of Belfast and James M'Cutcheon of Omagh — and one in the active work, the Eev. James Sullivan of Nenagh, had passed to the Church triumphant. WUliam Quaile of Annadale, who had been called out during the year, was received as having travelled twelve months ; and Thomas Moran of BalUna, William Guard Price of New townards, and John Woods Ballard were admitted on trial. A resolution was passed by which the Ust of reserve was placed in the hands of the chairman of the Dublin district, with whom correspondence should take place in the case of vacancies arising in the ranks of the itinerants. The Eev. William G. Campbell was appointed a general missionary to visit and labour on the mission stations. The Eevs. John Greer and Thomas Meredith were elected to accompany Mr. Waugh as Eepresentatives to the British Conference ; and by these ministers a sum of £200 was presented, in the name of their brethren, to the treasurers of the fund for the relief of those ministers in Great Britain who had been deprived of their ordinary circuit allowances. Before the Conference terminated, the stewards of the Belfast South circuit presented an address to the President, from which 420 HISTORY OF METHODISM. the following extracts merit permanent record : " In these times of sad misrepresentation and distrust we feel we should not be justified in aUowing you, as one of the general secretaries of our great Missionary Society, and as the President of the Conference, quietly toretire from amongst us without expressing our entire confidence in the fidelity, wisdom, gentleness, patience, and firmness displayed by you and your eminent colleagues, most especially by one whose name is above all praise, the Eev. Dr. Bunting. It is our desire, however, principally to express our strong and undying attachment to Wesleyan Methodism, in its glorious system of Divine truth, godly discipline, financial economy, and general government; and we would, by this ex pression of our settled judgment, strengthen your hands and the hands of your brethren in resisting the demands of un reasonable men, who are seeking to change that form of Christianity which has been transmitted to us by our fathers, and of which you and your brethren in the ministry are the guardians. It is our firm purpose, while the Lord shall spare us, to spend and be spent in this cause till our work is done, and then to leave behind us, as the greatest and richest legacy to the rising generation, Wesleyan Methodism unimpaired, and in as glorious and successful operation as when we first cast our lot in with the body." * The Methodist New Connexion was favoured with special tokens of the Lord's blessing. For a period of three years a growing desire for a revival of the work of God had been cherished by the ministers, leaders, and principal members, yet nothing remarkable appeared. At length three brethren, at PriesthUl, made a covenant with one another to meet together weekly to wrestle with the Lord in prayer for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and accordingly did so for several months in succession. Meanwhile the incense of prayer rose also in the closet, the family, and the ordinary services of the Church, and the desire spread and intensified until an assurance was felt that a great and glorious work was about to take place ; and at the Conference one brother declared that God had given him to feel that, during the year, there would be such a revival at PriesthUl as never had been known by any of the people. Indeed, many * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1851, p. 884. CHAPTER XXXIL— 1851. 421 unconverted persons were singled out as subjects of' intercessory prayer, and the intercessions were urged at the throne of grace untU the suppliants felt and declared their conviction that these sinners would be converted to God ; and so it proved eventually. At the July quarterly meeting it was agreed to devote one Sab bath to open-air preaching in connection with each of the prin cipal Societies, and on the following week evenings to;hold meetings for special prayer. At these services the overhanging^cloud burst in blessings, the parched land became a pool, and the wilderness rejoiced and blossomed as the garden of the Lord. The power increased as the efforts continued. On the Thursday at Broom hedge a number of persons in distress came forward, and some found mercy and testified that God, for Christ's sake, had pardoned thefr sins. " On Friday,'' says the Eev. S. Nicholson, " the chapel was crowded. We continued in prayer with the penitents until eleven o'clock, and several entered into the liberty of the sons of God. This, however, was only the beginning of the gracious work." During the following week the revival] broke out still more gloriously at PriesthUl. " On August 3rd, in the evening," says the Eev. J. Shuttleworth, " after preaching, we invited those who were seeking mercy to come forward for special prayer. A few responded, and soon the cry for salvation became loud. Some obtained peace, and many more were in great distress. On my way home I caUed at a friend's, and there found a number of persons who had been at the meeting and were in deep anxiety about their spiritual state. We went to prayer, and God spoke peace to their souls. At the same time one of the leaders was engaged in prayer with a number who had called at his house in distress." On this memorable day the youthful Thomas Carlisle sought and found the Divine favour, and^thus entered on his brief career of eminent usefulness. The revival continued, became intensified in power, and spread through the entire neighbourhood. God seemed to touch the hearts of the people in almost every house. They flocked in hundreds each night to the place of prayer ; and such was the intense anxiety to gain admission that often, about the hour for commencing the service, the people were seen running from all directions that they might get inside, or if that was impossible, get near the door or one of the windows. The chapel had not accommodation for more than 422 HISTORY OF METHODISM. about two hundred adults, and yet it was calculated that often there were from six to seven hundred inside and around the building. An open-air service was arranged to be held one Sabbath ; but nearly half the congregation appeared to consist of penitents, so that no one could preach ; but aU the people joined in prayer, and in praying, singing, and exhorting one another they spent the whole afternoon.* In a few weeks about four hundred professed to find peace. The meetings were continued day and night for a considerable time, so eamest was the desire manifested for salvation by the crowds that thronged to the church and to every open door in the neighbourhood. It was a wonderful visitation. And so greatly was the strength of Mr. Nicholson strained that he was for some time laid aside, and it was feared that he would be unable again to resume the active work ; but happily these anticipations were not realized. The Eev. William G. Campbell, who was appointed to visit the mission stations as a general missionary, spent the first three months in Ulster. Immediately after Conference he entered on his work, commencing in the streets of Ballyclare. Thence he proceeded to Downpatrick, and preached in the greve to about five hundred persons, who drank in the word with avidity. The soul of the missionary rejoiced in spending the first Sabbath of his new labours in proclaiming Christ from the spot where Wesley had often preached, and close beside that in which the remains of St. Patrick are said to rest. Thence Mr. Campbell went to Cavan, Lowtherstown, and on to Donegal, where finding out-door services greatly appreciated, he addressed attentive multitudes in the fairs, fields, and markets. Many wept, scores knelt on the ground, and some smote their breasts. At Loughros Point "a large congregation assembled, every word seemed to be devoured, some cried aloud, and several declared that the Lord had deUvered and comforted their souls." At Eathmelton the missionary preached standing on a stone where Dr. Coke had stood sixty years previously, and the congregation was large. Some stones were thrown, but this only brought out a greater number to the chapel in the evening. At New Buildings a crowd had assembled for a race, and to these Mr. Campbell delivered his message. " At first * Memoir of Eev, Thomas Carlisle, pp. 14 — 17. CHAPTER XXXII. — 1851. 423 they shouted, gazed, and wondered, and then drew near and listened." In Londonderry the work of the Lord appeared in a state of steadily grovring prosperity, to which fresh impulse had been given in spring by the visit of the Eev. John Eattenbury, on the missionary deputation. At Newtownlimavady some in teresting conversions took place, the out-door services were numerously attended, and all classes, including some Arians, seemed impressed. At Drumclamph, " a revival had been going on with vigour for fourteen months." At Omagh " the scene was affecting, as windows were thrown open, the rich gazing, the poor weeping, and many kneeling on the ground, while Mr. Moran called on God in prayer." A good work had been going on in Antrim for some time, and a fresh impulse was given to it. The open-air services there in Eandalstown and in Ballymena were largely attended and deeply impressive. At Galway some in teresting conversions took place, and tokens of prosperity appeared both in town and country. At Lucan and Trim it was cheering to witness the willingness of both old and young to yield to the influence of Divine grace. And on the Kilkenny mission there were many professed conversions, including one young man, a Eoman Catholic. For years services had been conducted in Eandalstown, but in a most undesirable place. One day Mr. Alexander Johnson of Antrim having occasion to wait on Lord O'Neill on secular business, his lordship said that a room over an ashpit was no place in which to hold religious meetings. Mr. Johnson re plied by asking if he would grant a site, and undertaking if he did so that a house would be built. A suitable plot was thus secured at a nominal rent, and on it an exceedingly neat little chapel erected. This building was opened for Divine worship by the Eev. Samuel Young. "The day was fine, the attendance large, and the preacher assisted from above." The collection amounted to £21 9s., leaving a debt of only £25, which was soon cleared off. For thirty years a heavy debt had remained on the DubUn Abbey street chapel, and it now amounted to £1,200; but Mr. Samuel M'Comas and a few other leading friends having felt it on their hearts that this serious clog to the good work should be removed, met for tea, and promised to subscribe £400 if the entire 424 HISTORY OF METHODISM. debt were paid off. A few days later the Eev. J. W. M'Kay writes to Mr. Waugh, "I understand the friends on the North circuit have obtained promised subscriptions to the amount of nearly £600." Arrangements were made, with the consent of the superintendent, the Eev. Dr. Appelbe, for the pew-holders to meet for tea in the school-room, and thus their sympathy was obtained. At the succeeding anniversary of the chapel, when the Eev. Dr. Newton preached there for the last time, having pleaded for the trust every twelve months, save one, for sixteen years, and when a grant was made from the Chapel Fund, the burden was completely removed. In relation to this occasion Dr. Newton wrote to his daughter, " We had overflowing congregations on the Sabbath, and a capital collection. Poor Pat cannot help being generous." * The returns from the missionaries and schoolmasters of the Primitive Wesleyans at the close of the year show that the cause gained ground, although in some places the progress was slow. The brethren who laboured on the Longford circuit and the Eos common mission reported favourably ; they were well received by the people, and had succeeded in opening places for preaching in Newtownforbes, Leitrim, and Carrickglass. From the Aughnacloy and Lisburn missions there were pleasing accounts. In the latter place it appeared that the influence of the Gospel supplanted the love for horse-racing, and the institution of Temperance societies bade fair to reclaim many from slavery to strong drink. The Bally connell mission was reported as doing well, with leaders and local preachers who gave efficient help in carrying on the work. Good was apparent on the Youghal station, while on the Kerry mission a noble work was done in bringing the Gospel to the homes and hearts of many Eomanists. God gave the missionary favour in the eyes of the Eoman Catholics, so that when he was denounced from the altars the people not only refused to take up a prejudice against him, but in a friendly way went to him and reported the circumstance. At Turlough the Scripture-reader zealously carried forward the work and distributed tracts extensively. To many Eomanists he read the Word of God, and in friendly discussions with them had seen fruit to his labours.f The Travelling Secretary of the Primitive Wesleyan Society, * Life of Dr. Newton, p, 340. t Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1851, pp. 461-62. CHAPTER XXXIL — 1851. 425 Mr. James Griffin, gives a pleasing and satisfactory report of his tour in November and December, of which the following is a summary : " For nearly five weeks the deputation attended a meeting every evening except Saturday, and with only two excep tions, the chapels were well filled with persons of various denomi nations, Eomanists not excepted, who manifested a special interest in the spread of the Gospel. The province of Connaught appeared to stand first in the interest manifested for Ireland's emancipation, the meetings held there being in general the largest the deputa tion had the privUege of attending ; in some cases two hundred people had to leave for want of accommodation. All the missionaries appeared to be animated by love for souls, to make sacrifices of great personal conveiuence and comfort for their salvation, and to be honoured by the great Head of the Church in their efforts. The deputation had the privilege of conversing with a great number of young persons, the fruit of missionary enterprise. The spirit of Uberality appeared greatly on the increase, so much so that in every meeting except one the collection was larger than that of the preceding year — in many cases it was doubled, and in some nearly trebled." * * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1852, pp, 145-46, CHAPTER XXXIII. 18 5 2. '" ' By the regulations of the army, the right of worship according to his conscience is now granted to every British soldier. It was not always so, for many of the military had often great difficulty in attending Methodist services, and sometimes were punished for doing so. In 1839 a general order was issued bythe Commander- in-Chief, acknowledging the right of soldiers to enjoy liberty of worship, but it did not instruct commanding officers to enable them to exercise that right, and therefore the possession of this privilege was for years very much a matter of local arrangement. The earliest instance of the public recognition of this right that we have discovered was early in 1852. The Eev. Eobert Huston, then on the DubUn North circuit, applied to H.E.H. the Duke of Cambridge, the Commander of the forces, requesting that the men of the garrison preferring to worship in Methodist chapels might have permission to do so. The application was courteously granted ; and commanders of regiments were directed " to afford every reasonable facility for the soldiers of their respective regiments belonging to the Wesleyan persuasion to attend Divine service in their own places of worship, under all circumstances ; the men to be marched, if the number did not exceed six, by a corporal ; if over six and under twenty, by a sergeant ; and if above twenty, by a captain or other officer." The order was immediately acted on at Blackball place, to which chapel about seventy men were marched on the following Sabbath, at noon.* Since then the religious rights of British soldiers have been more fully and generally recognised, and a better provision made for their exercise. Tn a previous part of this work,t an account is given of the * Lite and Labours of Eev. F. Tackaberry, p. 60. t Vol. ii., pp, 255-56, CHAPTEE XXXIII. — 1852. 41:7 founding of the Methodist Female Orphan School in Dublin. For nearly fifty years this charity was maintained in premises in Whitefriar street ; but these having become untenantable, the trustees resolved to erect a new and better house. A special appeal was made, an excellent site in Harrington street secured, and the commodious and suitable building still in use completed.* No doubt an exceedingly important work has been done and remains to be done by this valuable institution, which has there fore a strong elaim on the practical sympathy of all who desire to promote the welfare of poor female orphans. In January John Wilson was sent to the Castleblayney cfrcuit, to supply for the Eev. James Donald, who was laid aside. The congregations increased so that the little chapel in Monaghan was unable to afford the necessary accommodation, and subscrip tions were raised towards the erection of a new building ; but owing to numerous difficulties, it was nearly ten years before a suitable site could be secured and the foundation of the chapel laid. A very powerful attempt was made to crush Methodism in MarkethiU. The rector and his curates, taking advantage of the transfer of the dispensary from the old governors to the Poor Law authorities, made a number of serious charges, involving neglect of duty, against Dr. Lynn, the principal Methodist in the village. The Government therefore sent an Inspector with instructions to conduct a swom investigation. This occupied three days, during which the former governors and the clergymen of neighbouring parishes stood nobly by the doctor, whose arduous and self-deny ing labours they had witnessed for the previous twenty years. The result was that none of the charges were sustained, the doctor retained his appointment, and his enemies were disappointed. Immediately after the decision was announced, the governors met, presented Dr. Lynn with a beautiful address, congratulating him on the honourable manner in which he had been acquitted, and gave him a set of solid silver salvers, as an expression of their " approval of his laborious and skilful attention to the poor of that neighbourhood." Not long afterwards he was appointed surgeon of the Armagh Militia, then embodied, and subsequently he was promoted to the rank of Surgeon-Major. Thus he was placed * The Irish Evangelist, 1882, p. 857. 428 HISTORY OF METHODISM. beyond the power of his persecutors, all of whom soon disappeared from the parish, and few, if any, lamented their departure.* At Banbridge some trouble arose from the unfaithfulness of the Society steward, who appears to have imbibed some of the views and feelings hostile to the Conference so prevalent in England. The superintendent of the circuit, the Eev. John Foster, for the sake of peace, bore with his misconduct until he felt he could do so no longer with a clear conscience, and then brought him before a leaders' meeting, over which the chairman of the district presided, and formally charged him with refusing to allow his accounts to be audited, misappropriation of money, falsehood, and opposing and preventing the administration of the Lord's Supper. Twenty-six leaders were present, and without a dissentient pronounced him guilty. He was therefore excluded from the Society. He then gave expression to his dissatisfaction in the Wesleyan Times, but was at once replied to by Mr. Foster, in a pamphlet entitled " Slander Eefuted." To this the ex-steward published a rejoinder, designated " Who is the Slanderer ? or, The Eefuter Eefuted." Other unpleasant results followed this con tention. On May 3rd the Eev. William Ferguson writes, " A few Eeformers, so called, in Banbridge are likely to give us trouble. Several of the trustees of the chapel having either died or removed, so as to occasion vacancies, one of the survivors, who lives in the town and holds the deed, without consulting Mr. Foster, held a trustee meeting, appointed new trustees, two of whom are not members of the Society, and got a fresh deed executed. This instrument was presented for signature to one of the original trustees, who lives in Newry, but he refused to sign it, and protested against the whole proceedings." t Thus evidently this matter ended ; but the effects of the strife con tinued for years, and no doubt greatly retarded the progress of the good work. The cause at this time in Clonakilty was very low. The ministers of the circuit only visited the neighbourhood on week evenings, the Sunday services were sparsely attended and con ducted by local preachers, and the whole amount subscribed to circuit and Connexional funds did not reach to £20 per annum. * Lynn's Methodism on the Armagh Circuit, pp, 113-14. t Unpublished letter to Eev. T. Waugh. CHAPTER XXXIII. — 1852. 429 But the Society received a most valuable addition in Mr. Thomas Bennett. He had been accepted as a candidate for the itinerancy in 1835, but on account of ill-health, was unable to go forward. Four years later, on his marriage, he settled in Skibbereen, where he proved an earnest and successful Christian labourer. And now an excellent opening having presented itself at Shannon Vale, he seized it, threw himself with characteristic fervour and liberality into the work, and the Lord cheered him with abundant tokens of His prospering blessing. The cause began at once to rise, and has never ceased to grow from that time until the present, when the circuit presents one of the most cheering fields in Ireland for evangelistic work. The ifrst quarter of this year was occupied by the Eev. Wm. G. Campbell in visiting Nenagh, Kilrush, Kerry, and Berehaven Mines, as well as revisiting Ballymena, Antrim, Galway, and Ballinasloe. The Nenagh mission appeared well prepared for a visitation of Divine influence, which was specially realized, and led to the conversion of several. Other mission stations also were favoured with gracious rain, especially Tarbert, Tralee, Killorglin, and Berehaven Mines. At Newport Mr. Campbell and Mr. Pratt took the street, and met with opposition, but received no injury. At Lowtherstown, in the fair, the missionary preached to about one thousand persons. The most profound attention and respect, as well as much sympathy, were indicated in all parts of the north; but only one open-air service was held in the south, as the brethren thought that the excitement arising from the so-called Eeformation movement, and the political state of the country, were such as not to justify the attempt. During the year Mr, Campbell says that he preached on an average ten sermons weekly, besides conducting additional services, and travelled about five thousand miles.* The reports from the missionaries and schoolmasters of the Primitive Wesleyan Society showed a large amount of useful labour, although in some places the exertions of the agents had aroused a spirit of bitter hostility. In Mohill especially the storm raged with great violence, yet the Lord shielded His servants from the evil designs of their persecutors. The congre gations were greatly enlarged, and many Eomanists received and * Hibernian Missionary Report, 1852. 430 HISTORY OF METHODISM. read the Word of God. The fell spirit of Eibbonism appeared in some parts of Louth, Armagh, and Monaghan ; on the Dundalk mission a reign of terror prevailed, and one gentlman, a most valuable friend to the Society, nearly lost his life, because of his exertions to promote Scriptural education and the spiritual welfare of his tenants. But notwithstanding this persecution, the reforma tion of the people from Popery continued to go forward. In SUgo, several young men having organized themselves for the purpose of holding prayer-meetings and distributing tracts, the congrega tions became so large that the preaching-house could not afford the needed accommodation.* And at Belfast, through the Divine blessing on the labours of Mr. John Wilson, a large number of young men were led to reUgious decision. These included William Lutton, Alexander M'Cormack, and John M^Cappin, who subse quently entered the itinerancy, as well as several others who have occupied important and useful positions in the Church of Christ. The reports from the various Wesleyan mission stations were also encouraging. From Lucan Mr. Burnside writes that the chapel in Trim had been much improved and was in a state of comfortable repair. The Eev. John Hughes says that Kilkenny had regular Sabbath and week-night services, and the congrega tions were steady ; Bonlea had preaching every second Sunday, and was an interesting locality, as it contained such a large pro portion of poor but industrious Protestants, who were in general attached to Methodism ; Bagenalstown, for want of local help, had no Wesleyan services on the alternate Sabbaths ; and at Inistioge, Stonyford, and Johnstown the missionaries preached once each fortnight on week evenings. At one country place some new members were added, and the class greatly quickened as weU as enlarged. In another place, where there had been but three members and no regular Society, a promising class was formed, a leader appointed, and two new preaching-places opened. At Berehaven Mines the Eev. James Carey found the congregationg in general good, convictions were wrought, and in a few instances conversions effected. The chapel in Kenmare had been repaired, arrangements made for more frequent preaching services there, and hopeful anticipations of prosperity were entertained. The Eev. Frederick Stephens says that upwards of £30 had been * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1852, p. 145, CHAPTER XXXIII. — 1852. 431 expended on the chapel at Tralee, the greater part of which had been collected in the town, one new preaching-place had .been opened, two new classes formed, and a couple of Sabbath-schools commenced in a remote locality. In Ballinasloe the Eev. Thomas Hickey found that the congregations improved, the Society increased, and several persons sought and found peace with God. The Eev. John Walker, who was appointed to Nenagh and Killaloe, states that he had a prosperous year, having been cheered by accessions to the membership and the conversion of souls to God. A serious loss, however, was sustained by the emigration of more than a hundred Wesleyans from Mountshannon. At Galway it appeared there had been several conversions, two new preaching-places opened, and the number of hearers in some places considerably increased. From BehnuUet and Erris the Eev. Thomas W. Baker writes, " Our congregations have been steadily improving ; Eoman CathoUcs frequently come to hear, and listen with seriousness." The Eev. Francis Stephens of Donegal says that the Gospel had been preached by him and his colleague in more than fifty places, and aU the congregations had been sustained, while in some there was a gratifying increase. The Eev. Jeremiah Wilson, who was appointed to Newtown limavady, states that the year was one of spiritual prosperity, the congregations were good, and the word of the Lord was accom panied with the Holy Spirit. The class-meetings had been specially owned of God, some persons were justified, backsliders were restored, and believers strengthened. Concerning Ballymena the Eev. John Feely reports that the mission continued promising, the Society healthy, and the congregations steady. Here and on aU the other mission stations the visits of the Eev. W. G. CampbeU were not only acceptable, but graciously owned of God.* The Wesleyan Conference met this year in DubUn, the preparatory committees commencing their sittings on June 18th. The Chapel Fund Committee considered various appUcations for reUef, and, by a careful application of the funds at its disposal, made a provision for the Uquidation or final payment of chapel debts to a considerable ajnount. At the Committee of the Connexional school it was reported that the premises had been enlarged and improved, and that the institution presented a more ¦'• Hibernian Missionary Report, 1852. 432 HISTORY OF METHODISM. cheering aspect than at any former period. At the Missionary Committee the reports of the state of the work were considered satisfactory and encouraging; and arrangements were made for the opening of three new missions in Connaught, to meet the desire for religious instruction evinced by many Eoman CathoUcs, and at the same time supply the wants of numerous Protestants who were left without the public and social means of grace they desired. The Conference began on June 23rd ; about one hundred ministers were present, and the chair was occupied by the Eev. Dr. Hannah, who was accompanied by the Eevs. Dr. Newton and William Arthur, A.M. During the year two venerable super numerary ministers, Henry Deery of Dublin and Thomas Eidgeway of Belfast, were called to their eternal reward. Thomas Guard, who had been called out, was received as having travelled twelve months ; and OUver M'Cutcheon of Omagh, Eobert Crook, A.B., George Alley, John WUson, Charles Wood, and James Edwards were admitted on trial. In the Pastoral Address it is said, " Some of our circuits have been favoured with a more than ordinary effusion of the Holy Spirit ; but although many souls have been thus added to us and to the Lord, we, as a Connexion, have again to lament a decrease. Causes with which we have been sadly familiar continue to operate, and — not to advert to others — emigration has again diminished the numbers in our Societies. Amongst those of whom we have thus been deprived must be included some of our most active and useful members, many of our most interesting young people, who were the rising hope of our churches, and numerous attendants on our ministry, from whom we reasonably anticipated an accession to our classes." However, the success which attended the indefatigable labours of the Eev. William G. Campbell led to his reappointment as a general missionary ; and at the request of the Eev. William Arthur, three additional missions were undertaken. These were at Connemara, Westport, and Killala. The Eevs. Henry Price and James Tobias were chosen to accompany Mr. Waugh as Eepresentatives to the British Conference. On June 30th the Primitive Wesleyan Conference commenced its sittings in Dublin. Mr. Alexander Stewart was for the sixth year in succession elected President, and Mr. William H. Mervyn CHAPTER XXXIII. — 1852. 433 was appointed Secretary. In the return of members there was reported a small increase of five ; while on a careful review of the state of the Connexion, it was stated that a spirit of peace and love prevailed ; the doctrine and discipline of the Society had been maintained in their simplicity and integrity, and on some circuits gracious revivals had taken place. For several years a heavy debt on the Missionary Fund had seriously operated against the aggressive work of the Society, but now it was found that the greater portion of this had been removed, chiefiy through the exertions of Mr. D. D. Heather. The state of the country in general was also considered very cheering, as many of the people had been aroused " to a consciousness of their duty as citizens of a free state, and of their solemn responsibility to God, the Judge of all," and had " broken loose from the grasp of a mercenary and selfish priesthood." The Eev. William G. Campbell entered at once on his work, beginning in the province of Ulster. Special services were arranged for and conducted by him in Belfast, Donaghadee, Ballyclare, Ballymena, Carrickfergus, Eathmelton, and Strabane, and were graciously owned of God. At Omagh a few were on the stretch for entire sanctification, and obtained it. At Aughnacloy many mourned with godly sorrow. At the fair in BaUybay there was a vast concourse of people, and at Eockcorry and CootehiU " overflowing congregations, with marked tokens of the goings forth of the Lord in His sanctuary." The counties of Donegal, Mayo, Cavan, Fermanagh, and Ijcitrim were also visited by the missionary, and all afforded evidence of special prosperity. The services were well attended at Kilkenny, and several young persons manifested an earnest desire " to flee from the wrath to come." At Ballinkillin, where a blessed reUgious revival had taken place, some Eomanists were awakened, but feared to take an open and decided stand. Bagenalstown gave indications that were hopeful ; and at Athy the arm of the Lord was made bare.* It having been considered at the Conference that at least one of the missionaries appointed to the new missions in Connaught should be a man of more than average experience and judgment, and those brethren selected being unwilling to undertake the * Hibernian Missionary Report, 1853. VOL. III. 28 434 HISTORY OF METHODISM. responsibUity, the Eev. Gibson M'MiUen arose and volunteered his services, which were accordingly accepted. He was appointed to Westport, and there, far from the large and influential audiences to which he had been accustomed, he applied himself earnestly to acquiring a knowledge of the Irish language, ministering to the little congregations committed to his care, arresting the Eome- ward tendencies of many Protestants who had been neglected by their own clergy, and preaching to not a few Eomanists, some of whom were turned " from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God." * The Eev. James Henry having been appointed to commence the mission in Connemara, states that he no sooner began his work at Cloonbeg than a congregation was formed, and continued to increase by the addition not only of Protestants, but also of Eomanists, who attended the services morning and evening. The school also improved much. Owing to the decease of one of the members, who had witnessed a good confession, the missionary had then to remove to Eecess, where a school was at once opened, and attended, amongst others, by the children of hearers who had been Eomanists. The congregations here soon increased from four or five persons to about thirty, most of whom had been Eoman Catholics. Thus in the midst of a desolate region, with no Protestant place of worship nearer than ten miles, were established regular public services, with a daily and Sunday school, t Another school was speedily opened at Eoundstone, which did well notwithstanding the anathemas hurled at it by the Archbishop of Tuam and the repeated altar denunciations of the parish priest. The latter perceiving his want of success, then visited the school, and spoke strongly against the reading of the Bible by the children of his people. A Protestant girl, however, stood up bravely and inquired, " What, sir, can you give us better than the Word of God ? Did not Jesus command us to ' search the Scriptures ' ? and did not Timothy know them from a child ? " The priest replied that he did not come there to hold a controversy with her, and left to visit the parents and urge them not to send their children to the school, but all in vain. J * Irish Evangelist, 1882, p. 977, f Hiiernian Missionary Report, 1853, J Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1852, pp. 1133-34. CHAPTER XXXIIL— 1852. 435 The Eevs. John C. Storey and George Alley were appointed to the Boyle circuit, then extending from Castlereagh, on the borders ofthe county of Galway, through Eoscommon and Leitrim and into the county of Cavan. Jlr. AUey says he preached, as a rule, every evening in the year, Saturdays included, and slept in a different bed each night in the month. The preachers rarely met otherwise than on the open road, as they drove from opposite ends of the circuit, and then notes were compared, and work laid out for another month, when they met again. A blessed revival broke out in Drumshanbo and its neighbourhood, and large numbers were brought to Christ. Amongst those thus converted was a daughter of iMr. Glover Laird, jun.,* Mrs. Mark Crawford, who for nearly thirty years adorned the doctrine of the Lord her Saviour and then entered into everlasting rest. The Eev. John Wilson was sent to the Downpatrick circuit, on which, at Saintfield, with two good women by his side, he made his first attempt at street preaching. This he followed up in other places, and at last in Downpatrick itself, where he had frequently on a fair-day some thousand hearers, most of whom were Eoman Catholics. Two cfrcumstances occurred which contributed largely to im prove the financial condition of the Primitive Wesleyan Society. In August the EvangeUcal Alliance met in Dublin, and was attended by some of the most eminent Christian ministers and lay men of England and Scotland. These were invited to breakfast in South Great George's street, and statements were made with regard to the principles and operations of the Society which excited considerable practical sympathy, and opened the way for securing subsequently much financial assistance. The labours of Mr. John Heatley, on the Kerry mission, having been specially owned from on high, he was visited by some Scotch ministers, who came over for the purpose of seeing his method of work, and were so pleased with what they saw that they invited him to their pulpits. Thus the sphere of the deputation work in Scotland, which for many years reaUzed £1,000 per annum, was greatly enlarged and rendered more permanent. Towards the close of the year the Wesleyan Society sustained a serious loss in the death of Mr. George Chapman of Trummery. * Vide vol. ii., p. 117. 436 HISTORY OF METHODISM. One Saturday night in the course of the summer he had a pleasing dream, which on the foUowing moming he related to the members of his class. He said that he saw James Creevy, who had died five years previously, and that he looked so beautiful that he could not refrain from saying when he was about to leave, " Brother Creevy, I wUl go with you.'^ The other repUed, " Nay, brother Chapman, you cannot come with me now, but I will return for you at Christmas." This dream, like many others, was soon forgotten, but when Mr. Chapman died on the foUowing Christmas Day the memory of the intimation thus strangely given was at once revived. The end of Mr. Chapman was a blessed and glorious triumph over the last enemy, such as has not been often witnessed.* * Lynn's Methodism on the Armagh Circuit, pp. 106-7. CHAPTER XXXIV. 185 3. As the town of Belfast continued to extend, the Society felt deeply the necessity for a chapel in the neighbourhood of Shank- hUl. Here, in 1826, a class of twenty-four members existed. Towards the close of 1843 the Eev. Fossey Tackaberry refers to having secured a lease of a plot of ground for a new building, but nothing further in the matter appears to have been done then: Prayer-meetings were held for some time in Harkin's court, thea^ in Kennedy's buildings, and about 1847 two houses in the former place were thrown into one for a mission-hall, which was opened by the Eev. Daniel Macafee. At length a suitable site having been secured in Agnes street, the foundation-stone of a new building was laid on Monday, May 24th, 1852, by Mr. Joseph Young. This edifice was fifty-two feet by thirty-two and a half, with accommodation for about three hundred and fifty persons, and cost £650. On Sunday, February 6th, 18S3, it was opened for religious worship by the Eev. William Eeilly, who preached in the morning from John iii. 16, and the Eev. Daniel Macafee, who discoursed in the afternoon from Matthew xvi. 18. Mr. Eeilly also preached in the evening in Frederick street chapel, from 2 Corinthians v. 20. The collections amounted to £63.* Thig, was the seventeenth Methodist chapel built in the town. The Eev. Eobert G. Cather, A.M., having been for some years deeply impressed vrith the importance of systematic giving towards the maintenance and extension of reUgion and charity, succeeded at length in dfrecting the attention of the various branches of the Christian Church to the subject. This was effected in the first instance by inducing a number of gentlemen in the north of Ireland, of different Evangelical Churches, to contribute *¦ Wedgwood's Handbook of Belfast Methodism, p, 21, 438 HISTORY OF METHODISM. £S each, to form a fund from which were offered two prizes for the best and second best essays on " Giving in Proportion to Means and Income." There were' fifty-one competitors. Five ministers— Thomas Drew, D.D., John Edgar, D.D., WiUiam Urwick, D.D,, WilUamP. Appelbe, LL.D,, and Eobert G. Cather, A.M.— acted as adjudicators; and after seven months . careful and independent investigation, each gave his verdict in favour of a different writer. On consultation, however, it was agreed that those chosen had in their conjoint capacity treated the subject in a manner so able and interesting, and had so fully exhausted it, that the whole five essays should be published in one volume, without prejudice to any. This was done, and the book entitled "Gold and the Gospel." Two Churchmen, a Presbyterian, a Congregationalist, a Baptist, and a Wesleyan each ordered a thousand copies of this work for distribution amongst the ministers and members of their respective Churches. The blessed results of the movement thus started, in the increased financial resources rendered available for Christian work, have been truly marvellous. For his exertions in connection with this work Mr. Cather received the thanks of the Irish Wesleyan Conference. On March 22nd the Eev. John Walker writes from Nenagh thus : " On my present station Eoman Catholics hear me in every place I preach, and not a few are in the Society who have been saved, not only from the errors of Eome, but from sin and Satan, and brought into the liberty of the children of God. Scarcely a day passes that your missionary has not protracted conversations with Eoman Catholics, on the leading doctrines of the Gospel as different from those taught by the traditions of men. The poor and the rich, the learned and the ignorant converse freely, frequently admit the truth as opposed to the errors in which they have been brought up, and receive tracts, pamphlets, and books, either as gifts or loans, with thankfulness and delight. I know several persons, still nominally connected with Eome, who are convinced of the absurdities and falsehoods of the system, and who, like Nicodemus, come for instruction by night, but are afraid to brave persecution by openly confessing Christ." * The reports from some of the mission stations, at the close * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1853, p, 494. CHAPTER XXXIV. — 1853. 439 of .the year, were cheering. The Eev. Henry Geddes of Kilrush says, " At TuUa we have formed a new class, of which some of the members have been brought to God and maintain consistency and integrity of character. We have nearly completed, at Kilkee, a neat and commodious chapel, a desideratum which was long felt and deplored by many of our friends who, year after year, visited this popular bathing-place. At Tarbert we have been cheered by a few brought out of darkness into marvellous light. Amongst the saved was a Eoman CathoUc girl, who having left Popery and embraced the truth as it is in Jesus, endured a Uving martyrdom at the hands of her relatives. They confined her, beat her, and dragged her to mass ; yet she clung to the Cross, and by Scriptural truth put to silence the priest. She is now with our mission teacher, enjoying the comforts of the Gospel." From Galway the Eev. James Murdock writes, " In the course of the past year God has greatly blessed us in this interesting field of labour. The visit of the general missionary in December was graciously owned of God. Preparatory services were held every evening of the week before he came, the hearts of our friends were raised to expect great things, and they were not dis appointed. The power of God was present to heal in all our assemblies, which were held each morning as well as each evening; fourteen, including one Eomanist, testified that they had obtained peace with God, and several of our elder members professed to have obtained the blessing of a clean heart." The Eev. Thomas W. Baker of BelmuUet and Erris reports, " The long-felt and much-needed want of chapel accommodation at Eossport has been supplied by the erection of a house which, though built and fitted up for the twofold purpose of chapel and school, is nevertheless neat and substantial. This edifice was formally opened by the Eev. Eobert Bell, on May 18th, when between ninety and a hundred persons, Protestants and Eoman Catholics, united in the worship of God. We were also enabled, about the same time, to commence a day-school, which will prove an invaluable aid to the missionary and a blessing to the rising generation in the country around." In January the Eev. William G. Campbell visited the south- eastem part of the kingdom, specially the Waterford, Wexford, Newtownbarry, and Wicklow circuits, and on each had tokens of 440 HISTORY OF METHODISM. the power of Christ to forgive sins. The services in Nenagh, Killaloe, and Mountshannon were very cheering, and those in Ennis good. There were refreshing services at Youghal and Fermoy, and at Tralee and Berehaven Mines much cause for thankfulness. Hallowed times of blessing were experienced at Skibbereen and Bandon, more especially the latter, where the gracious Lord had been pouring out " a plentiful rain " to confirm His inheritance. At Kinsale there were some happy conversions. " Thus end," says Mr. Campbell, " my visits to sixty-seven stations during the year. I have travelled about six thousand miles, and held services in parts of each of the thirty- two counties. I have addressed hundreds, if not thousands, of Eomanists, and in many instances engaged with them in prayer. I also distributed numbers of tracts, as well as portions of God's Word. My conviction remains unaltered that since the days of the Eeformation there have not been greater facilities for access to the Eoman Catholic population than at present."* The Wesleyan Conference was held in Cork, the preparatory committees commencing on June 17th, and the Conference on June 22nd. The chair was occupied by the Eev. John Scott, who was accompanied by the Eevs. Dr. Hannah and Dr. Beecham. The Eev. WilUam Arthur was also present. William Gorman of Limerick, Samuel, son of the Eev. James Patterson, James Donnelly, and Thomas Cooke were received on trial. One of the ministerial brethren, William M'Garvey of Cloughjordan, had passed from time into etemity, and with his last accents had borne testimony to the Divinity of that religion which he had preached in life and the power of which sustained him in death. Although the Society had lost seven hundred and fifty-eight members by emigration alone, and there was therefore a decrease of four hundred and thirty-two, the prospects of tbe kingdom, both commercially and religiously, were considered more hopeful than for some years previously. Public confidence was in some measure restored, and notwithstanding the special efforts put forth to maintain and perpetuate Popery, a spirit of religious inquiry was awakened, and some who had long submitted to Papal domination had shaken off the oppressed yoke. In order to occupy two additional posts as centres of home-missionary operations, it was deemed right, * Hibernian Mis.sionary Report, 1853. CHAPTER XXXIV.— 1853. 441 however, to discontinue the general mission, which had been so graciously ovraed of God ; but it was agreed that at the ensuing August district meetings arrangements should be made for a general ministerial visitation of all circuits and missions, to endeavour by special services to promote a revival of the work of God. The Eevs. Eobert Masaroon and William P. Appelbe, LL.D., were chosen to accompany Mr. Waugh as representatives to the British Conference. Two very important resolutions were passed by this Conference, having reference respectively to the raising and the distribution of money contributed towards the support of the work through out the Connexion. It was agreed that inquiry should be made at the August district meetings, whether arrangements could be made to increase the Contingent Fund, by the holding of public meetings or the preaching of sermons on its behalf, and if so, that they should be carried out. Such was the origin of the Circuit Aid and Extension Fund, which at the close of the year amounted to £416 2s. 8d., and which proved the beginning of a most successful movement for the improvement of ministerial support and the increase of the number of ministers. The second resolution was, " That at each May district meeting a lay gentleman, being a member of the Society, shall be chosen to be a member of the Committee of Distribution of the Contingent Fund." This measure was largely due to the influence of Mr. Thomas A. Shillington. He was long of opinion that all depart ments of the work involving the raising and administration of funds should be managed by a mixed rather than by an exclusively ministerial committee. At the Portadown May district meeting of ] 847 he moved a resolution to the effect that " the addition of a number of lay members, as representatives of districts, to the Committee of the Contingent Fund would increase the interest in its favour amongst the members of the Societies ; " and this passed unanimously, but the Conference did not consider it expedient at that time to adopt the proposal. Nothing daunted, Mr. Shillington raised the question again in the ensuing year, and after a lengthened discussion, withdrew his resolution on the assurance that the matter would be brought before the Conference ; but this undertaking was not effectively carried out. The subject was then wisely allowed to drop, on 442 HISTORY OF METHODISM. account of the agitation in the British Connexion, until the Conference of 1852, when Mr. Shillington wrote a strong letter to the Eev. Thomas Waugh on the subject, and this led to a successful issue. The principle then admitted has been adhered to, and so agreeable and successful has been its operation that it is now hard to believe that it was ever regarded, by godly and sensible men, with such distrust and apprehension.* In addition to the £200 given by the Irish Wesleyan ministers, in 1851, to the fund instituted in England for the relief of ministers deprived of their ordinary circuit allowances by the Eeform agitation, a further grant of £1,000 was made this year. It is acknowledged in the reply of the British Conference to the Irish Address thus : " One special proof of your fraternal regard has deeply affected us — ^your noble contribution towards the relief of our financial embarrassments, conveyed to us by Mr. Waugh. That amidst all the claims which are made upon you, in your peculiar sphere of labour, you should have been disposed to contribute no less a sum than £1,000 towards the supply of our present wants, is matter of surprise and thankfulness. We acknowledge the gift with gratitude, and take it as a token for good, and confirmation of our long-continued union." The Primitive Wesleyan Conference, according to appoint ment, met on June 29th, in the preaching-house. South Great George's street, Dublin. Mr. Joseph M'Cormick was chosen President, and Mr. William H. Mervyn re-elected Secretary. Two candidates were admitted on trial, one of whom was William B. Monahan of BallinamaUard. One death was reported, that of George Stewart of Lowtherstown. Mr. Eobert Sewell had retired in order to take charge of a Congregational Church, and Mr. William P. Skuse to emigrate to Australia, but on his way to the land of his adoption and before the Conference assembled had passed to the better land. Two brethren, Alexander Stewart and William Pattyson, having laboured long and faithfully, became supernumeraries. There was a decrease in the membership of two hundred and eighty-five, but the financial state of the Society was considered most cheering. In order to leave Mr. Heather free to solicit subscriptions in England and Scotland, the ¦* Memorial of T. A, Shillington, J,P,, pp, 128-34. CHAPTER XXXIV.— 1853. 443 country was divided into seven districts, and a preacher appointed to each to attend missionary meetings. A young man named Eichard Williams was appointed, by the Primitive Wesleyan Society, a Scripture-reader at Whitegate, in the county of Cork. Eamest and diligent in his hallowed work, he endeavoured to bring the light of Divine truth to bear on the ignorance and degradation of his fellow-countrymen, but was met by fiendish and bloodthirsty malice. In consequence of the bitter persecution which he endured, he had to attend the petty sessions to give evidence against some of those who had treated him so cruelly. On the evening of that day a mob was harangued by a priest, who made such allusions to WiUiams that the people became excited, again assaulted the defenceless Scripture-reader, and inflicted on him such serious injury that he lingered in great suffering a few months, and then passed home to heaven, a martyr to the malice and intolerance of Popery. One of the honorary secretaries of the Evangelical Alliance proposed, as a means of spreading Gospel truth in Ireland, that a hundred ministers should go from Great Britain to this country, preach five sermons a week each for four weeks, and receive no remuneration. The proposal was at once adopted, the required number of ministers of different EvangeUcal denominations volunteered their services, and at the end of July left Dublin for their respective scenes of labour, more especially in the south and west. The mission thus undertaken, with the best intentions, proved a signal failure. Men who were total strangers, however wise and good, could not expect to be as successful as others who had spent their lives in the country and were intimately ac quainted vrith the people. Besides, the missionaries were preceded by a flourish of trumpets announcing their purpose and anticipating their success ; and thus before ever setting a foot in the kingdom, they were denounced from every altar from the Giant's Causeway to Cape Clear. So long as these messengers of the Gospel confined their ministrations to the Methodist, Presby terian, and other places of worship which were cheerfully placed at their disposal, their labours were gratefully appreciated; but as soon as they attempted to preach in the open air they were met by furious mobs, and in general compelled to take to flight. At Nenagh a rabble of Eomanists assailed them with sticks and 444 HISTORY OF METHODISM. mud, and but for the timely interference of the poUce, serious consequences would have followed. At Parsonstown the mission aries obtained a hearing from many Eomanists, notwithstanding the placards posted up by the priests, waming their people not to listen to the intruders, and should they chance to meet them, to make the sign of the cross between them. Had the authorities in Limerick'acted with the same decision as those in Parsonstown, the ministers would not have been hissed and assailed with stones as they were. At Clonmel six of the missionaries, having taken their stand in a suitable place in the open air, endeavoured to hold a religious service, but were received by a mob of not less than four thousand persons with such a storm of hisses, yells, and groans that the attempt had to be given up in despair. Stones, cabbages, and other missiles were then hurled at the strangers. One minister was thrown down, and saved from being trampled to death by Mr. Joseph Higgins ; and another of the band, in trying to dash through the crowd, was saved by the Eev. John Saul, who himself received very rough usage. The mayor then interfered, with a body of police, and escorted the ministers to their lodgings- Similar scenes took place elsewhere. One good, at least, resulted from this evangelistic effort ; it revealed to the British public the real character of Popery, the intolerance of the system, the power of the priests, and the tremendous difficulties to be encountered by the preachers of the Gospel in this land. Many thought that the condition of the Eomanists was to be traced to indolence and want of courage on the part of Irish ministers ; but they were now undeceived. One of the hundred, in commencing his tour, preached in a Wesleyan chapel, selected for his text, " For by thee I have run through a troop, and by my God have I leaped over a wall," and the sermon was very glowing, reminding the hearers of Job's description of a war-horse, so eager did the preacher appear to reach the battle-field. At the end of three or four days his courage cooled, having only once attempted to hold a service, during which, amid a serious riot, he received a slight wound, and then turned his face homewards. On the following Sabbath he occupied the pulpit of the Wesleyan chapel again, and his text was, " My soul cleaveth to the dust " ! From KUrush the Eev. Henry Geddes writes, " Our chapel at Kilkee was opened for Divine worship on Sunday, September 11th. CHAPTER XXXIV. — 1853. 445 We were favoured with the valuable services of the Eev. Samuel Young, whose discourses were listened to with marked attention, delight, and profit. A policeman, a Eomanist, who was sent to protect us during the first service, heard with the deepest interest, and was not only convinced of the errors of Popery, but power fully awakened to a sense of his danger as a sinner before God. Some days afterwards he sent for me, opened his mind, was instructed in the way of salvation by faith in Christ, and sought and found the pardoning mercy of God, in the possession of which he rejoiced with joy unspeakable. Expecting not only opposition from his friends, but persecution, he gave up his situation and left for Australia. Before sailing he wrote to me thus : ' My confidence in the Lord is unshaken, and His presence cheers and sustains me in all my difficulties. There are a great many Eomanists on board, but God is good to all who put thefr trust in Him, and I do not fear but He will bring me safely to my destination. I have many enemies in consequence of having left Popery — the curse and riun of Ireland — and for having embraced the truth, in which I now rejoice. I never can be sufficiently thankful to God, who dfrected my way to your little chapel at Kilkee, where, for the first time in my life, I heard the blessed Gospel, and never can I cease praising God for the change wrought in me through Jesus Christ.' " The Eev. James Henry fitted up and opened for religious services a room in CUfden ; and although interruptions, occasioned by clamour and throwing of stones, were frequent, and continued for several weeks, there were those who would not suffer them selves to be prevented from attending the meetings. At length, through the interference of the authorities, this open opposition ceased, and the congregations were permitted to worship God in peace. The services proved seasons of refreshing from the pre sence of the Lord, those attending them were greatly blessed, and two at least were savingly converted. One of these had been a Eomanist, who had never before attended a Protestant place of worship ; and the other was the head constable of the district, a fine young man, in the bloom of health, but, a few weeks after his conversion, " nipt by the wind's unkindly blast," he peacefully passed to the home above. At Oughterard a friend whose heart the Lord had opened when she was young, and her husband. 446 HISTORY OF METHODISM. opened their house for preaching, a good number of persons attended, and a few members were enrolled in the Society. A letter from the Eev. Gibson M'MUlen, dated Westport, October 19th, is worthy of notice. He says, " One Sunday, on my return home from evening service, as I passed two or three persons standing nearly opposite a priest's house, my attention was arrested by one of them calhng ' Jumper ' at a member of my congregation. It occurred to me that an occasion was given of introducing the Gospel to those who might never otherwise hear it, so I halted, and asked the speaker what he meant by the term he had used. ' Your reverence,' he said, ' it means a rebel against lawful authority, all as one as a rebel against the Queen's Government.' ' I always understood it to be a term of reUgious reproach,' I replied, ' and if so we are all Jumpers. If our fore fathers had not jumped from Paganism to Christianity we might have been all Pagans to this day.' My application of the term was new to him ; he made no reply, and then recovering himself, put the question, ' What is the oldest religion ? ' This was an excellent text, and afforded me an opportunity of explaining the nature as well as proving the antiquity of Bible Christianity. Our conversation assumed the form of a regular discussion, and the hearers rapidly increased. The crowd, however, attracted the attention of the priest, who mistaking me for one of the hundred, determined to repel by every means in his power the English invasion. He first endeavoured to drive away the people from about me, and for this purpose raised his hand, with a rod in it, and commanded them to be off; but I stood, and determined to keep my ground. Having driven back the crowd, he walked up, held his clenched hand to my face, and said, ' You rascal, you ! ' I made no reply. ' Be off,' he then said, ' my good fellow, be off, or I will not answer for your life.' Still I was silent and stood firm. As a final effort, he shouted as loudly as he could, ' You are a marked man ! mind that ; you are a marked man ! ' One of his own fiock now informed him who I was, so his reverence became much calmer, requested me to go home, and assured me he only wished to save me. ' Save me ! ' I repUed ; ' it was a most singular way to save me, to act towards me in the manner you have done, and call me a rascal.' A little fellow then shouted at me, ' You are a rascal,' and at the instant some one from CHAPTER XXXIV. — 1853. 447 behind tripped me over and threw me on my back. His rever ence perceiving that his sympathizers were only few, and that a respectable person whom he knew approached me, retreated to his house ; and I retired slowly, without hearing any expressions of reproach. Far from being discouraged by the opposition I have met with, I have every reason to rejoice. My opportunities of addressing Eomanists are increasingly frequent ; and I have reason to hope that the seed sown does not fall by the way-side." On November 3rd the Eev. Samuel Young writes, " I have just returned from a long joumey to the north, having visited the schools and taken part in opening the chapel at New Buildings. This edifice is built on the spot where the Eev. Dr. Adam Clarke preached his first sermon, and this fact created much interest in the neighbourhood. There is reason to hope that the day of the opening service will not soon be forgotten, as twenty- five persons came forward in the Derry chapel, after the sermon in the evening, and with tears and earnestness sought an interest in Christ, some of whom were comforted. I was very much pleased with the state of the schools, but am sorry that some of them have suffered considerably from the late denunciations of the priests, and the Church schools have suffered more than ours. Some of the children say that they will not rest until they get back again to our schools. With gratitude to God I mention the narrow escape I had, at Bellaghy, from being seriously injured, if not mortally wounded, by a stone thrown with great force from behind a wall opposite our school-house door, while I was stand ing about a yard inside, talking to the master and another friend. We had no means of finding out who had thrown it or why it was done, but we thought it was on the supposition of my being one of the hundred ministers who visited these parts. I am happy to inform you that the deputations of the districts are doing their work well, and in some cases they have witnessed the conversion of a number of souls to Christ. It is doing both ministers and people good. Nothing has done the ministers so much good for years; all needed baptizing with a missionary spirit, and this plan has created a kind of Christian emulation amongst the brethren. I had letters this morning informing me of the conversion of ten souls to Christ in one place, and six in another. You will be glad to hear of the success of this new plan." CHAPTER XXXV. 1854. The Wesleyan Society in Belfast having obtained the use of the loft of an old bark mill in Greenhills court, off Falls road, it was turned into a mission-room, in which, for a few years, prayer- meetings and other religious services were held. Mr. John Caruth soon formed a class in it, and then another in an adjoining street. Mr. James H, Beattie also commenced a Sunday-school, of which Mr. Eichard Wiggins, who subsequently entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church, America, was the secretary. Thus the good work continued to extend until it was felt desirable that a chapel should be erected. A suitable site was then secured, a building committee formed, and arrangements made for completing the undertaking. The foundation-stone of the new house was laid by Mr. David M'ConneU, on May 2Sth, 18S3, and it was opened for public worship by the Eev. John H. James, in the spring of 1854. Such was the origin of the Fall's road Wesleyan chapel, the eighteenth Methodist preaching-house erected in the town. The labours of the Primitive Wesleyans also in Belfast were attended with cheering success. Mr. Charles Skuse, the superin tendent of the circuit, writes, " Our lovefeasts have been truly times of refreshing ; no exhortations were necessary to induce the people to speak, not a moment remained unoccupied, and though the December meeting continued for four hours, it was with regret we had to bring it to a close. Many seemed still wishful to remain. Several penitents openly signified their willingness to dedicate themselves to the service of God, and were made happy in His forgiving love. Not a week passes but we are favoured with tokens of God's blessing. An association of lads, to the number of sixty, has been formed; it meets weekly CHAPTER XXXV. — 1854. 449 for prayer, and all the members appear to be going on well, walking in the fear of God. The number of meetings, for preaching or prayer, held weekly in the town and neighbourhood is about thirty-six, and I am informed there never was a time when these services could be more easily multiphed, had we a sufficient number of persons qualified to conduct them. Our Sunday-schools also are in a prosperous state." * The Primitive Wesleyans of BeUeek feeUng deeply the necessity for a suitable place of worship, secured an eligible site, rent free for ever, from John C. Bloomfield, Esq., who also laid the foundation-stone of the new edifice, and gave a handsome subscrip tion towards its erection. In due time a neat and commodious chapel was built, and on Sunday, May 24th, it was set apart for the service of God by Mr. James Griffin. On the foUowing evening a tea-meeting was held, at which the treasurer submitted his accounts, and it was found that the house was almost free of debt.f Indications appear of the attention that was now given to the subject of increased ministerial support. Thus at Sligo, at a special meeting of the Wesleyan leaders held on February 23rd, it was resolved first, " That we recognise the fact, too often over looked, that financial difficulties have been hindering spiritual prosperity ; " secondly, " That we feel convinced that this state of things cannot continue, and are assured that it need not; and we are further convinced in respect to the times, the number and necessities of our congregations, and the admirable adaptation of Methodism to the evangelization of this land, there is a loud call to the present members of the Church conscientiously to devote a portion of their substance to the support of God's cause ; " and lastly, "That the Drogheda scale of stipend should be adopted, viz. ; ^70 per annum to the senior minister, and £30 to the junior," who lodged in the manse and boarded out. The Eev. Samuel Young, in his annual report to the Wesleyan Missionary Committee, states, "There is a considerable increase in the Sunday-schools, and also in the attendants on public worship.. This is matter of gratitude, especially at a time when we have to meet such united and determined opposition. I informed you "¦ Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1854, pp. 109-10, t Ibid, pp. 305-6. VOL. III. 29 450 HISTORY OF METHODISM. that the schools had suffered considerably from the denunciations of the priests ; but they are now gradually recovering from the shock, and I believe we never had so many Eoman Catholic children in them as now. The parents say they get no such instruction in any other schools, nor so much kindness shown them ; hence when the children are detained at home they weep until allowed to go again." * The sad effects of the visit of the hundred ministers from England and Scotland became increasingly apparent. The Eev. John Walker of Nenagh and KUlaloe says, "Never had your missionary so many hindrances and persecutions as during the last year. I thought it right to render what assistance I could to the hundred ministers in autumn, and consequently received my share of the pelting and hooting. Since then, on different occa sions and on several parts of the missions, I have realized the true spirit of Popery — what it was, it is, and ever will be. But British law, thank God, when rightly administered, protects us, and some of the persecutors have felt its strong arm, yet it is sometimes rendered powerless by bigotry. At one time, in the country, a stone was thrown which struck both myself and a friend who was with me, yet, thanks to our gracious Preserver, neither of us was injured. In another place I was the subject of a priestly tirade, and two shopkeepers who received me into their houses have been so held up to notice that they decline to do so again. ' If they receive Poulagoonah,' said his reverence, ' I will make the grass grow at their doors.' Death, removal, and emigration have done their work in thinning our ranks, taking away some of our best people, so that we may say, ' If the Lord had not been on our side when they rose up against us, they would have swallowed us up quick.' Yet we have not to report a decrease either in our members or funds. ' It is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes.' " From Killala the Eev. Samuel Johnston writes, " It is with unfeigned gratitude to the Head of the Church your missionary reports the state of this mission. Last year it was his lot to record the opposition Wesleyan Methodism had to contend with, but during this year it has increased ten-fold. Seldom or never has it been the lot of any Society to have to bear so much obloquy and * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1854, p. 563. CHAPTER XXXV. — 1854. 451 to contend with so much unrighteous opposition. The pulpit and the press have both been used as vehicles of the vilest slander against Wesleyan Methodism as a system, as well as against the moral character of its people ; but it may be truly said, ' The things which ha\'e happened unto us, have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the Gospel.' None of these things moved our members or friends, but the privileges and advantages that the Society affords have been more and more prized by them. In Killala our congregations have considerably improved, the ordinances of the sanctuary have been well attended, and the number in the Society is nearly double what it was when this mission was established two years ago. Our Sunday and daily schools have also increased considerably, and are Ukely, under God, to be made a great blessing." Concerning Ballymena the Eev. Edward Best reports, " It has been cheering, midst the labours of the year, to witness the spirit of deep and serious interest in the word preached manifested by large and attentive congregations, and above all to see on several cccasions as many as twenty persons kneel around our communion rails, as penitent seekers of salvation, most of whom have rejoiced in God their Saviour. Our chapel in Ballymena was for some years in a state of dilapidation, and required extensive alterations to render it suitable for our large congregations. Stimulated by a deep conviction of its importance, and by the kind co-operation of a few friends, this work was commenced in December, important improvements were completed, at a cost of £148, which has been nearly aU paid, and the house is now comfortable and generally admfred." * The Wesleyan Conference was held in DubUn, the preparatory committees beginning on June 16th, and the Conference itself on the 21st. The chair was occupied by the Eev. John Lomas, who was accompanied from England by the Eevs. John Scott and John Farrar. Five ministers had in the course of the year passed from their toil on earth to their reward in heaven. One of these, WUUam Lupton of Limerick, was in the vigour and prime of his work ; and four, William Stewart of Dublin, Samuel Kyle of Pettigo, John Waugh of Skibbereen, and Eobert Carson of Omagh, were supernumeraries. The Eev. John Greer was elected, by * Hibernian Missionary Report, 1854. 452 HISTORY OF METHODISM. nomination, a member of the Legal Conference, in place of Mr. Stewart. John D. Powell, who had been sent from England as a supply to the Skibbereen circuit, was received as having traveUed two years; and WUliam, son of Mr. James H. Swanton of Skibbereen, Francis Douglass of Dungannon, Wilson J. Storey, WilUam C. Doonan, and two others were admitted on trial. The decrease in the number of members was three hundred and seventy- five, but the loss by emigration was seven hundred and forty- two. In the Address to the British Conference it is said, "In many places, where we had large and flourishing Societies, we have now scarcely any left ; and the prospect we had that our cause would be promoted and extended in these neighbourhoods has, for the present, become less promising. But compared with preceding years, the decrease thus caused is small, while in a greater number of circuits than at any time during the last ten years we have an increase. And regarding the state of our Societies generally, their devotion to God and loyalty to His cause, we are hopeful that soon we shall witness better days than ever." Two or three subjects of great importance received special consideration. The question of Education now came to the front in a way that it had not done previously. No Connexional system was in existence ; the schools established being chiefly confined to mission stations, it was felt that some provision ought to be made for the more general instruction of the children of Methodists, and that if schools were established extensively, assistance might be obtained from Government on unobjectionable terms. Accord ingly a committee was appointed to observe the workings of the • National system, and make known the views and wishes of the members to the Government. As there was no institution for the education of the children of ministers, the inquiry arose whether the Connexional School could not be so enlarged and modified as to admit the sons of ministers as well as those of the laity, and a mixed committee was also appointed to take this subject into consideration.* The. sum of money, however, necessary for the success of these projects was so large that the Methodists of Ireland were unable alone to fumish it ; therefore it was further resolved that a deputation should be appointed to visit the United States and Canada and solicit assistance ; but the * Primitive Wesleyan Method'ist Magazine, 1854, pp. 820-21. CHAPTER xxxv. — 1854. 453 carrying out of this was postponed until the proposals were matured. The Eev. Eobert Masaroon was appointed treasurer of the Worn-out [Ministers' and [Ministers' Widows' Fund, and the Eev. "\\'illiam Cather secretary, and the Eevs. Daniel [Macafee and Eobinson Scott were elected to accompany Mr. Waugh as Eepresentatives to the British Conference. On June 28th the preachers of the Primitive Wesleyan Conference assembled in the chapel. South Great George's street, DubUn, and on the following day were joined by the lay representatives. [Mr. Thomas M'Fann was elected President, and Mr. James Griffin Secretary. Six candidates were admitted on trial. These included John Ker of Meaghy, near Newtownstewart, John Todd of LisbeUaw, and Alexander EUiott. Three of the brethren had been removed by death during the year. One, John Noble of Lowtherstown, had been for several years laid aside from the regular work ; and two, John Stephenson of SUgo and Eichard Eobinson of Boyle, were actively engaged in the Master's serrice when called to their etemal reward. Although there was a decrease in the membership of nearly seventeen hundred, it is said, " We have been cheered in hearing that upon several of our stations there are marked indications of a revival of the Lord's work. The statements of some of the brethren have been intensely interesting and deUghtful, and we are led to look forward to the year upon which we are entering as one of great prosperity." The most important act of the Conference was the appointment of Mr. Dawson D. Heather as a deputation to America, to sohcit subscriptions on behalf of the Superannuated Preachers' and Preachers' Widows' Fund and other funds of the Society. This having been communicated to Evangelical ministers in the New World, they made arrangements to receive the deputation with fraternal affection. He was welcomed as Dr. Heather, leading ministers opened thefr pulpits to him, and a committee was formed to facilitate his work. Great excitement also prevailed amongst those once connected with the Society who had made America the land of their adoption. The presence of the Irish preacher awakened in them touching memories of the past ; they remembered the days of thefr youth, when in the dear old country they had Ustened to the story of the Cross from the itinerants, 454 HISTORY OF METHODISM. and were thus led to religious decision, not a few looking upon Dr. Heather as their spfritual father. Wherever he preached crowds of Irish men and women flocked to hear him, and in some instances with no little difficulty he made his way to the pulpit. On most of these occasions the scenes were deeply affecting. Some wept aloud for joy, many embraced him with warm affection, and frequently such exclamations were heard as, " Oh, but I'm glad to see you ! Do you remember when you used to preach in my father's house ? It was there I was converted." " Do you recollect the night I found peace in W 0 's barn ? I shall never forget that night." " Do you remember the day you met me in the streets of B , a poor ragged boy, and brought me to the Sabbath-school ? To that I trace all the good I have ever enjoyed ; and if I have an abundance of this world's goods and an honourable position in society, I owe it all, under God, to you." American ministers and laymen looked on with amaze ment, and saw evidence of the good done by the Society in Ireland that they had no conception of previously. Notwith standing the commercial depression in the country. Dr. Heather was enabled to accomplish his mission, and secure such a sum of money as placed the funds of the Society in an easy position, and enabled it to extend its operations.* About twelve months previous to this, James OUver of Mullantur was converted, and soon began to exercise an influence for good in the neighbourhood. He had previously been engaged as a Sunday-school teacher, and in about six months began to hold meetings. An old leader said of him, " We will do with James as they do with children in India. They throw them into the Ganges; if they sink, all right, and if they swim they are considered worth rearing. We will leave James to himself : if he sinks, no harm ; and if he swims, all right.'' And swim he did, for the attendance at the meetings greatly increased, and so did their number, until the young convert had more invitations than he could attend to. At one of these services, held in his mother's house, John Carson and two others found mercy. The good work thus begun spread, until about thirteen lads decided for Christ, and were formed into a Society class, with Mr. Oliver as their leader. One of this little band, John Carson, subsequently ¦* Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magaz'me, 1862, pp. 369-70. CHAPTER XXXV. — 1854. 455 entered the itinerancy in Ireland, two became ministers in America, and most of the others rose to positions of usefulness as leaders and local preachers. During the appointment of the Eev. William G. Campbell to the Lowtherstown cfrcuit in 1849-51 a gracious revival had taken place, which was followed by a considerable reaction. Now, however, through the Divine blessing on the labours of the Eevs. Frederick Elliott and John WUson, the tide began to turn. Towards the close of the year a plan was formed by which they together devoted their time and energies for several days in succession to the most important centres on the circuit. This proved very successful, so that a good work commenced, which culminated at BallinamaUard, while TrilUck, Togherdoo, and Lack were richly blessed.* Open-air services also were held on market- days, and proved a means of much good. In Dublin the necessity for increased chapel accommodation was deeply felt, and led to the erection of three places of worship. One of these was a Bethel for saUors in Lombard street, built in 1847 ; the second was a kind of chapel-schoolhouse in Oriel street, erected in 18S0 ; and the third, being the seventeenth Methodist chapel in Dublin, was at Eathmines. For a period of twenty-five years the Wesleyan chapel at Eanelagh was the only Protestant place of worship in the township ; but in 1826, through the exertions of a gentleman who frequently attended the Method ist services, an Episcopal church was erected, and that was suc ceeded in time by four others, a Presbyterian meeting-house, and a Baptist chapel. Methodism, however, prospered so much in this neighbourhood during the appointments of the Eev. Gibson M'MUlen (1846-49) and the Eev. Joseph W. M'Kay (1849-52) as to render the erection of new premises indispensable. These, including a beautiful chapel and residence, were completed, under the dfrection of the Eev. Wallace M'MuUen, at a cost of £1,700, and the opening services were conducted in September, 1854, by the Eevs. John Bedford and WiUiam Arthur, A.M.f In 1850 the Eev. Wallace M'MuUen was appointed to Cole raine, and did an important work in commencing the erection of a new chapel and minister's residence. The progress of the age * Unpublished autobiographical sketch of Eev. F. Elliott. t Irish Evangelist, 1863, p. 117. 456 HISTORY OF METHODISM. and the decaying influence of time on the structure which had been used for more than half a century required a change, so that the necessity for more attractive and commodious premises was long felt. Accordingly, after much thought and deliberation, it was resolved that the necessary buildings should be erected on the plot of ground immediately in the rear of the old chapel and dwelling-house, and facing a new road from the bridge to the Portrush road. Arrangements were made for a tea-meeting, to see what could be done to meet the necessary outlay. This was held in 1852 ; at it a subscription-list was opened, and a sum of £1,600 was promised by the members of the Society and congre gation alone. Additional subscriptions were afterwards liberally given by members of other religious denominations in the town, and plans were drawn out by Mr. Isaac Farrell. An interesting ¦service, in connection with laying the foundation-stone, took place «on May 1 7th, 1853. The stone was laid by John Cromie, Esq., D.L., and suitable addresses were delivered by Mr. M'Elwain and the Eev. Mr. M'MuUen. The new residence was ready for occu pation before the Conference of 1854; during the year the Eev. William Eeilly was stationed on the circuit, and the taking possession of it was made by him the occasion of an interesting .social gathering. The opening services of the new and beautiful ohapel were held on Friday, September 8th, when the Eev. William Arthur preached at noon, from Acts ii. 3. The congrega tion listened with intense interest to the discourse, and were moved to tears by the powerful appeals of the preacher. In the evening the Eev. Wallace M'MuUen preached from Psalm Ixxxvu. S, 6, and his sermon was distinguished by that chasteness of style, lucidness of exposition, and beauty of illustration for which he is so remarkable. On the foUovring Sabbath the Eev. Eobinson Scott conducted a devotional meeting in the morning, the Eev. William Arthur preached in the afternoon from Eevelation xxii. 1, and the Eev. William Eeilly discoursed in the evening from John iii. 16. The attendance was good at all the services, more especially those on the Sabbath, when it was difficult to find accommodation for the multitudes who desired to attend. The coUections amounted to £124 7s. Qd, It is worthy of notice that at a breakfast-meeting held at this time in the house of the Eev. James Tobias, at which the above and other Wesleyan ministers CHAPTER XXXV. — 1854. 457 were present, was projected an outline of the plan of the Fund for the Increase of Wesleyan Agency in Ireland, which did such an important work in this country. After the above opening services, the old chapel was altered to suit a Sabbath-school and other purposes. The entire outlay on the premises amounted to £2,540, which, with the assistance of £200 from the Chapel Fund, was paid off, leaving no debt. The subscriptions included £1,000 from Mr. and Mrs. M'Elwain, £350 from the Hon. the Irish Society, £50 from the Worshipful the Company of Clothworkers, £50 from Mr. and Mrs. William M'Arthur, £50 from Mr. Alexan der M'Arthur, £25 from Mr. Thomas Boyle, and £20 each from Lord Naas, Mr. Cromie, Mr. Canning, and Mr. Thomas Gordon, CHAPTER XXXVI. 185 5. A GEEAT impetus was given in Ireland to the work of spreading the principles of systematic beneficence by securing the valuable co-operation of tbe Eev. William Arthur, A.M. He delivered a most eloquent and beautiful lecture in the Victoria Hall, Belfast, on "The Duty of Giving Away a Stated Proportion of our Income." The occasionl^was one of no ordinary interest. The Lord Bishop of Down, Connor, and Dromore occupied the chair, the platform was filled with leading ministers of the various Evangelical Churches, and the hall was crowded vrith the elite of the Christian laity of Belfast. The lecturer, however, rose to the greatness and importance of the time and the theme, and as in his own clear, incisive, and felicitous style he explained the duty, stated the ground on which it rests, and pleaded for practical attention to it, the audience was greatly impressed and delighted. The subject was thus presented in a much briefer and more popular form than could be done in the prize essays, and many listened to the address with the deepest interest who would never have thought of reading the large volume. The lecture was also published in a cheap form and had a very extensive circulation. The reports for the year, furnished by the Wesleyan mission aries, present many interesting and cheering items. From Lucan and Trim the Eev. William Lough writes, " To obtain religious intercourse with Eoman CathoUcs is extremely difficult, yet occasion has been sought, and sometimes found by us. A few have attended our services, some have left the Church of Eome or been confirmed in their determination to do so, and there are many upon whose minds conviction has taken hold, but they have not yet mustered sufficient strength to ' come out and be separate.' In one locality a Sunday-school has been commenced, and is principally conducted by young persons who have been CHAPTER XXXVI. — 1855. 459 converted to God in the past year." The Eev. Henry J. Giles of Kilkenny says, " In no former year have we had more systematic and persevering opposition to contend with from those who, because of their position in society, wield a mighty influence ; but our people^have retained their attachment to Methodism, as the means under God of turning them from darkness to light, and while new and imperative claims on their financial resources have arisen, continued to manifest an increasing interest in our institu tions by enabling us to report an increase of contributions to nearly all our funds." At Kilkee the Eev. Henry Geddes formed a new and prosperous class, found that many attended the ministry of the word who never before had an opportunity of hearing a Wesleyan mission ary, and had abundant evidence that the new chapel had proved a blessing to both Methodists and others who had visited this neighbourhood. The Eev. WilUam B. Le Bert, who was appointed to CUfden, states, " Our congregation in this town has steadily increased ; a class of fourteen members has been formed, with every hope of a speedy accession ; the various religious services have been crowned with the Divine blessing, and saving good has accrued to many. Some Eoman Catholics occasionally attend our meetings, listen with marked attention to the preaching of the word, and admit that what they hear is the truth. We have effected a new opening at Ijctterfrack, where we are permitted to use a school-house, and about thirty persons attend ; but a most determined opposition has been raised against us by the Protestant clergyman, who is using every measure possible to drive us out of what he calls his parish. The daily schools at Eecess and the Fishery are beginning to recover from the priest's interference, and we hope they may soon regain their wonted vigour and efficiency." Concerning Donegal the Eev. John Feely reports, " Last year we mentioned that no men gave us such direct opposition as those of the so-called ApostoUcal Succession school. In the course of this year one of this class actually came into the place of worship where one of our missionaries was about to conduct a service, and in language which it is needless to quote, and a manner we need not describe, forced a discussion. It may be trusted, however, that the Christian reception he met with and the controversy he HISTORY OF METHODISM. introduced had a good effect on himself and others. We have no reason to regard this gentleman as the least sincere among his brethren, nor more opposed to our work than others who take a less direct way of neutralizing our efforts." At Ballymena and Antrim it seems the cholera had made its appearance, soon after Conference, and hundreds fell victims to it, but only one Methodist. A most salutary impression, however, was made on the minds of the people, large numbers flocked to the chapels and other preaching-places, and hundreds, including numerous Eomanists, attended the services in the open afr; but othfer Churches reaped largely the fruit of these successful labours. The school-house at TuUybane having been roofed and floored, the jealousy of the priest and a few Protestants was excited; they sought in vain to wrest the buUding from the Society, and then tried to take away the scholars, in which they only partially succeeded.* The Wesleyan Conference was held in Belfast, and the number of ministers present exceeded that of any previous similar meeting. There were also at the preparatory committees a larger number of influential friends from the country than had been usual. The Conference was opened on June 21st by the President, the Eev. John Farrar, who was accompanied by the Eevs. John Scott, John Lomas, and William Arthur, A.M. The Eev. John Hill was elected by seniority a member of the Legal Hundred, in place of the Eev. William Crook, sen., superannuated. The Eev. Joseph W. M'Kay was appointed Assistant Secretary. Six ministers were reported to have died during the year. There were William Ferguson of DubUn, Edward Hazleton of Moy, William Armstrong of Armagh, Michael Burrows of Dublin, Eobert Banks of Carlow, and William Finlay of Strabane, all of whom were well stricken in years. In life they were respected and useful, and in death they felt that He whom they had loved and served was able to save them " unto the uttermost." It was unanimously resolved that the members of the Conference should erect a tablet in the Centenary chapel, Dublin, as a token of respect for the memory of William Ferguson, and as an expression of gratitude for his unostentatious and valuable services to the Connexion. John S. M'Dade of Dromore, and Andrew Armstrong were received on trial. The loss of members * Hibernian Missionary Report, 1855. CHAPTER XXXVI. 1855. 461 by emigration was six hundred and ten, while the net decrease amounted to four hundred and eighty-four. The various Connex ional Funds were considered to be in a healthful and flourishing condition, while it appeared that many friends had awoke to the importance and duty of making a better provision for the suste nance of their ministers. A meeting, therefore, of laymen was held in Donegal square chapel, with Thomas Farmer, Esq., in the chair, and it was resolved to recommend that each married minister should receive an allowance of at least £80 per annum, and each single minister £30, One sentiment, especially, in the Answer of the British Conference to the Irish Address — " Methodism rears no monuments where it saves no souls " — excited a most cordial response in the Conference and has become classic. The Eev. Samuel Young having intimated his intention of retiring from the office of Superintendent of Missions and Schools, received the thanks of the Conference for his services, and the Eev. Jesse Pilcher was subsequently appointed his successor. The Eev. Thomas T. N. Hull, who had laboured for about eight years as a foreign missionary, was warmly welcomed back to the scene of his former efforts ; the Eevs. William G. Campbell and Eobert Hewitt were appointed general missionaries ; and the Eevs. Henry Price and George Vance were elected to accompany Mr. Waugh as Eepresentatives to the British Conference. The most important business, however, in connection with the meeting of the ministers in Belfast, was the inauguration of the Fund for the Increase of Wesleyan Agency in Ireland. This movement marked a new departure in the history of Irish Method ism, and developed, to an unprecedented extent, the ability, Uberality, and godly zeal of Irish Methodist laymen. After mature deliberation by the Committee appointed in the previous year, it was resolved that a fund should be raised by means of which not only the basis of the Connexional School should be extended so as to afford education for a certain number of ministers' sons, but also that daily schools should be estabUshed, an educa tional institution should be erected, ministers' residences should be built where required, and the number of ministers increased. To make a start in carrying out this enlarged design, a breakfast- meeting was held in the Victoria Hall, on June 22nd, and was attended by the members of the Conference and the leading 462 HISTORY OF METHODISM. Methodists of the kingdom. The President of the Conference took the chair, and earnest addresses were given by the Eevs. Eobinson Scott, Thomas Waugh, William Arthur, A.M., WilUam Eeilly, John Scott, and John Lomas, together with Messrs. Thomas A. ShiUington, Archibald M'Elwain, Thomas Farmer, WUliam and Alexander M'Arthur, James H. Swanton, Thomas Bennett, and others. It was easy to observe, in the course of the proceedings, that the true spirit of Christianity incited alike the speakers and the audience. Ministers and laymen together caught the holy flame which God's own Spirit kindled. All seemed to bow with holy gratitude before Him whose goodness they had richly tasted, and to feel their responsibility to God and His cause. It was the hope of those who proposed this scheme that £20,000 might be obtained, of which £5,000 might be raised in Ireland ; but it was found at the conclusion of the meeting that the subscriptions then and there promised amounted to the noble sum of £8,821, which was afterwards largely increased. Letters of encouragement having been received from ministers of high station and influence in America, it was resolved, in order still further to promote the object contemplated, not only to bring the subject before the Methodists of Ireland, but also to send a deputation to the United States and Canada. Accordingly the Eevs. Eobinson Scott and William Arthur, having been thus appointed, left for the New World early in autumn. They were received vrith the utmost cordiality, every facility was afforded for promoting their mission, and the response to their appeal was most generous. The success of the whole scheme was very remarkable, as a marvellous impetus was given to education ; in nineteen years the number of Wesleyan ministers in Ireland was increased fifty per cent., and their circum stances were greatly improved by the erection of a large number of residences, an addition to their incomes of at least one-half, and a provision made for the education of their sons. The Primitive Wesleyan Conference began its sittings in Dublin on June 27th. Mr. William Herbert was elected Presi dent, and Mr. Eobert Kerr Secretary. Three candidates, including William Lovett of Belturbet and James Elliott, were admitted on trial. No death amongst the preachers had taken place during the year, but three had resigned their connection with the Con ference to enter the ministry of Evangelical Churches. The CHAPTER XXXVI. — 1855. 463 decrease in the membership was three hundred and forty-three. Mr. John Wherry took charge of a mission station, and Mr. Alexander Stewart succeeded him as editor of the Magazine, an office which he sustained for six years. It was resolved, " That in consequence of the altered state of the times, the salaries of preachers and missionaries be increased to £20 per annum." The Wesleyan general missionaries went forth to their work in the name of the Lord Jesus, with many prayers for their preservation and success. They were everywhere aided by the zealous co-operation of the circuit ministers, and cheered by the welcome of friends, many of whom joyfully shared the incon- veniencies often attendant on street preaching and open-air serrices. To record the regular and successive progress of these devoted brethren through the provinces is not necessary, yet the notice of a few facts may be desirable. At Kingstown the general missionaries were confronted by an infatuated rabble, whose determined interruption prevented the peaceful proclama tion of the Gospel of Christ, Violence appeared imminent ; but the Lord delivered His servants, and brought to their help brethren who took charge of the legal question and conducted it to a satisfactory issue.* The Eev. Eobert Wallace having been grossly interfered vrith subsequently in conducting an open-air service in the town, instituted proceedings ; the case was tried before Lord Chief Justice Monahan, and thus the right to conduct open-air services, provided there were no obstruction to the thoroughfare, was acknowledged by the Court of Queen's Bench. On September 3rd the Eev. W. G. Campbell writes from Clones, " We had very gracious times on the CootehiU circuit, both in tovm and country ; there were several happy conversions, and some instances of persons obtaining the blessing of perfect love. The street service was the most remarkable of all, quite in character with the one at Killashandra, and brothers Hazelton and Douglass wrought like men. They intend taking the streets, and going round the circuit together holding special services. I preached here tvrice in the streets. Yesterday the Fermanagh militia were in tovm and heard the word preached. Lord EnniskiUen and a great number of others also were present in the market-house, and Ustened attentively. His lordship declared that if the missionary * Hibernian Missionary Report, 1856. 464 HISTORY OF METHODISM, went with his regiment they would not have a sick man. I gave them books and tracts. At CootehiU the Eomanists took the small Epistles with great avidity. I preached this moming in the street at seven o'clock, and many followed me to the house. We had a good time last night." At CorUsbrattan John E. Green was won for Christ. Again, a week later Mr. Campbell writes from Cavan, " On my way to SwanUnbar I took the street in New townbutler, and the after-meeting in the house was extraordinary. One man cried aloud. The street service in Clones on Monday was still more powerful. One man found peace vrith God. At Belturbet the congregation was very large, there were many penitents, and some obtained mercy and joined the Society. Two new classes were formed. On the following morning there was a remarkable service. One woman was made so happy that we thought she would never cease praising God. She UteraUy danced for joy. In the evening the congregation exceeded any they had ever seen in the house before. Yesterday was a high day here. I took the street, after church, and had no interrup tion; the house was crowded in the evening, and several spoke who had heard in the street, and I hope will join the Society." On October 26th he writes from Londonderry, " At Lough Muck two Eomanists appear to have been soundly converted, and others were in distress. It would not be easy to number those at Beragh, Omagh, etc., led to decision, but let God have all the glory. I preached yesterday in this city, and although the night was excessively wet, a grand congregation attended, and at the prayer-meeting afterwards there were many penitents." On November 9th he writes from Coleraine, " The work in this town justified Mr. Tobias in going to Ballymena for me, and it still goes on. This may indeed be regarded as almost miraculous, as in no place were there so many obstacles to be overcome, but by strong crying and tears they were removed. The leaders were not united, and some of them rather opposed to any special effort in connection with penitent meetings ; but this prejudice has been overcome, and they are all alive. Seven or eight met last night and pledged themselves to work for God in every possible way. The work in the country parts also resulted blessedly in a number of happy conversions, and so it did at Newtownlimavady, where several leaders obtained purity of heart. Persons of other de- CHAPTER XXXVL — 1855. 465 nominations have been amongst the converts. The work in Derry goes on gloriously." * ]\Ir. Hewitt paid a visit to Bandon; a special revival tea- meeting was held in the school-room, Watergate place, and the Spirft of God descended at it in mighty power. About twenty or thirty responded to the invftation given to those anxious to come forward, and several reaUzed peace and joy in believing. One of these was Mr. John W. Dawson,t who has since then rendered valuable service to the cause as a leader, local preacher, and circmt steward. It was about this time also that Thomas Lee was led to reUgious decision. He subsequently entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church of America. It haring been discovered that extensive repairs were necessary in Wesley chapel, Cork, the leading members of the Society resolved to celebrate the jubilee of its erection by getting these effected, and making such other improvements on the premises as were considered most desirable. These were completed at a cost of about £513, while one of the friends of the Society, though not a member, offered a liberal subscription to aid in providing stained glass for the windows, another had the organ painted and gilded at his own expense, and the ladies furnished rich velvet cushions and fringes, adding elegance to the dignity of the pulpit and reading-desk. The reopening service was conducted on Sunday, November 4th, when the Eev. Daniel Macafee preached from Leviticus xvii. 11, and the collections for the day amounted to £58 14s. On the following evening a public meeting was held. James H. Swanton, Esq., took the chair ; the steward of the chapel read a statement of the finances, and the junior steward of the Society a brief history of Methodism in Cork, and eloquent addresses were delivered by the Eevs, Dr. Appelbe and Daniel Macafee, as well as several others. The collection amounted to £51 3s. lOd., which, with what was subscribed both before and afterwards, met the entire outlay. A few years previous to this a Scotchman, Mr. William Brown, had settled in Celbridge, and was thus for the first time brought under the influence of Methodism. He was led to religious decision through the Divine blessing on the labours of the Eev. * Unpublished letters, f Son of Mr. John Dawson of Mountpleasant. VOL. III. 30 466 HISTORY OF METHODISM. Henry Geddes, but lost subsequently his sense of God's favour. However, having settled in Dublin and connected himself with the North circuit, he regained the evidence of his adoption on the first Sunday evening the Eev. Wallace M'MuUen preached in Abbey street chapel, on his appointment to that circuit. The text was Eevelation Ui. 20. From this time he held on his way, serving God and generously supporting His cause. On Monday morning, November Sth, a public and outrageous aet of sacrilege was committed at Kingstown, in the burning in the open street of the Sacred Scriptures, with the worst produc tions of infidelity and licentiousness. The Eev. Eobert WaUace having heard of it, proceeded at once to the spot, and there, at the lower end of the Eoman CathoUc chapel, in sight of every one that passed by, he saw a large heap of cinders from books or paper, with patches of flame. A number of persons, one of them a boy in the dress of an acolyte, were round the fire, and kicked books, evidently Bibles, into the flames. One of these parties turned round and said, " We are burning Bibles. Have you any more to bring ? " And then, to remove every doubt upon the subject, he took up a portion of one out of the fire, and handed it to Mr. Wallace. This fragment contained Deuteronomy iv. 12 — 17, which the Methodist minister selected as his text on the following Sunday morning. One of the Eedemptorist fathers, Petcherine, was subsequently tried for the offence, and the jury considering the case not proved, acquitted him. Men, however, who acted such a part did much to prove how accurate is the motto Semper eadem, which is at once the boast and the brand of the system which they so meetly represented. A very gracious religious awakening took place in connection with the Primitive Wesleyans at Ballyreagh, and like the similar work twelve years previously, commenced in the family of Mr. Eobert Orr. He having taken seriously ill, his son Eobert, then a young man of twenty-one, became seriously anxious about him, prayed earnestly for his recovery, and the Lord merci fully granted his request. He then resolved to enter upon a new life, went to class-meeting, where the power of God descended, and at a lovefeast held in Lisbellaw found peace in believing. A blessed work thus began which soon spread, and a large number were led to the Saviour. These included five brothers of Eobert CHAPTER XXXVI. — 1855. 467 Orr, two of whom, Thomas and James, as well as Eobert, afterwards entered the itinerancy ; William M'Cabe, a Eomanist, and Chris topher Wilson of Cavancarragh. The good work also extended to BallinamaUard and Knockmanoul, where " the overwhelming power of saring grace " appeared to overturn all opposition, and before the end of the year hundreds of souls were converted to God.* The Eevs. Eobert Hamilton and Andrew Armstrong were appointed to Brookeborough, and lyere greatly cheered with tokens of the Lord's blessing. Mr. Armstrong commenced his labours animated by the hope of seeing sinners converted every week, if not every day ; but this did not happen at first, and therefore he became greatly cast down, and thought he had made a mistake in entering the itinerancy. At length, in deep distress, he took the matter to his heavenly Father, and asked Him in mercy to decide it at the succeeding lovefeast at Tempo by giving him to see the conversion of souls if it were the Divine will that he should remain in the work, or by withholding this token if he should retum home. At the close of the lovefeast the young preacher announced for a prayer-meeting, and proceeded to give .an invita tion to penitents to come forward ; but before he could utter many sentences the people fiocked up, and ere the meeting ended nine professed to have found the Saviour. This proved the beginning of a blessed and successful time. On the Frederick street circuit, Belfast, the Eev. Eobert Crook, A,B., did a very important work, more especially amongst the young people. The Bible-classes he formed were largely attended and exceedingly profitable, and in his theological class he drew around him a number of young men who sub sequently occupied important positions of usefulness in dif ferent parts of the world and in various branches of the Christian Church. These included Samuel Mateer, who has done a noble work as a missionary of the London Society in Travancore; WiUiam Currie and Alexander Graham, who were received into the ministry of the Congregationalists; Edward Thomas, who joined the Methodist New Connexion; Thomas Freel, Alexander FuUerton, WiUiam A. Blake, and Charies H. Crook shank, who entered the Methodist itinerancy in Ireland ; and not * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1857, p, 253. 468 HISTORY OF METHODISM. less than twelve others, who became efficient leaders and local preachers. The Eevs. John Hughes and John Wilson were stationed on the Armagh circuit, where they did good work and were greatly assisted by James Ohver. One or two ministers of other de nominations complained of the loss of some of their people, and preached and wrote against Methodism. This drew out Mr. Hughes, who published two able pamphlets, entitled " James Arminius ; or, The Memory of, the Just," and " The Ethics and Dogmas of Calvinism Contrary to the Character of God." Mr. Hughes also commenced to issue his tracts on the subject of ministerial support, which made such an impression, it is said, as to call forth a vote of censure from one Conference, and then from the following annual meeting of the ministers a vote of thanks, together with a grant towards the cost of publication. The Eev. John S. M'Dade was sent to the Tanderagee circuit, where he had full houses everywhere in the country, and in Tanderagee and Gilford large congregations. But the cause at Banbridge was very low ; there was no stopping-place for the preacher, and only an occasional week-evening service. Mr. M'Dade, however, collected a congregation of about thirty persons, and at the close of the service expressed his willingness to accept the hospitality of any of the friends present, but none offered to entertain him. On returning to the town an invitation was given by Miss Eobinson, who said her sister-in-law had been present at the previous meeting, and came home weeping at there being no home for the preacher in Banbridge, nor would she be comforted until she obtained a promise that it would be given to him. Thus the way was opened for regular visits, until the people desired Sabbath services, and Mr. M'Dade reopened the chapel. On that day at least one soul was won for Christ ; and soon additional stopping-places were opened, so that the people were enabled to offer £30 per annum towards the support of a third minister. One Sunday afternoon, as Mr. M'Dade took his stand under the shade of a tree at the end of Gilford, and began to preach to a large crowd, he observed a young man, with pale and haggard look, listening with anxious interest, and invited him to the evening service in the chapel. The invitation was accepted, and CHAPTER XXXVI. — 1855. 469 the poor fellow, who had been wont to spend his Sabbaths in the fields with his dog, and his wages on drink, found mercy at the foot of the Cross. His wife was delighted at the marvellous change in her husband, and taught him to read that he might study the Bible for himself. At class when the members paid their quarterage Eobert inqufred what it was for, and offered to pay also. The leader, however, refused to accept anything ; but the young convert insisted on being allowed to contribute, saying that he had spent much in the devil's service, and got nothing but misery in return, but now he had a happy heart and home, and many comforts to which he and his family had been strangers, and therefore would make some return. He continues faithful to this day, and is greatly respected in the neighbourhood where he lives. At Tanderagee there was a family, nominally connected with Methodism, the parents of which maintained that people sinned not from nature, but from example, and they tried to support their opinion by referring to the Ufe of their son. Mr. M'Dade, however, spoke to this moral youth about the state of his heart, and he admitted that he was a sinner by nature and practice, and earnestly desired to be converted. Thus the young man whom his friends thought had no sin was led to the Great Sin-bearer, and entered upon a course of much usefulness, especially as a leader, first in his own neighbourhood, and then in connection vrith Donegal square chapel, Belfast. CHAPTER XXXVII. 1856. Few men in modern Methodism have been so well knovm in Ireland, and so much admired, as William Morley Punshon. His manly form, beaming countenance, and glowing eloquence were familiar in all quarters. When some faint rumours concerning his popularity first reached this land, and it was proposed at a leaders' meeting in Belfast South that he should be invited to the town, it was gravely said, " It would never do to bring to Ireland a man with such a name," and the proposal was rejected. Early in 1855, however, the Eev. Eobert G. Jones, who was in the North circuit, and wished to secure the assistance of a popular preacher, requested the Eev. William Arthur to come to his help ; but he could not, and suggested that it would be well to get a young man from Sheffield, called Punshon. The hint was taken, and the distinguished orator preached in the Frederick street chapel for the first time on this side of the Channel, selecting for his text Eevelation viii. 3. He also occupied the same pulpit again that day and on the following evening, and the favourable impression made was deep and wide-spread. Mr. Punshon appeared for the first time in Ireland as a lecturer on January 21st, 18S6, and at once rose to a position of amazing and life-long popularity. The largest halls were crowded to hear him, and the people were delighted, thrilled, and en raptured. They laughed, and wept, and cheered by turns. It was not the emotional mass merely that was thus affected, but also the phlegmatic, the cool-headed, and the cultured. In this instance the Victoria Hall, Belfast, was the scene of his triumph. On the platform were some of the leading divines and collegiate professors in the kingdom. The house was crowded, and the subject of the lecture was "Science and Literature in Eolation to CHAPTER XXXVII. — 1856. 471 Eeligion." As the young orator proceeded the spell of his matchless eloquence rested on the audience, and professors, philosophers, and dirines were as enthusiastic in their plaudits as the shop assistants and apprentice boys. Even the staid and stately Dr. Cooke was so entranced that, unconscious to himself, the bow of his cambric cravat passed round to the back of his neck, a fact to which he only awoke when subsequently speaking to a vote of thanks, and then, in trying to adjust it, and humorously quoting from the lecture, said, " Mr. Chairman, I perceive my cravat has revolved upon its axis ! " while Dr. Edgar playfully remarked, " If every puncheon were as sweet as that of which we have just partaken I fear my pledge would run a bad chance of being kept." Mr. Punshon paid his first visit to the metropoUs in the foUowing August, in response to an invitation from the Dublin North circuit. He was the guest of Mr. Deaker, preached in Abbey street chapel to a crowded house, and made a most power ful impression. " His sermon," it is said, " had much of the fire, force, and finish of his maturer years; and some of those who hung on his lips that day often in after-years referred to his memorable ministration of the word of Ufe on this occasien." * One evening a young man whose intelligent and melancholy countenance betrayed an unsettled and anxious mind was accosted by a Christian lady and invited to the Abbey street chapel. He accepted the invitation, and was then told that a class for young men met upstairs on Sunday mornings, and asked if he would go to it. At the time of meeting he went, and seeing a gentleman there, inqufred, " Do you know Mr. Henshaw ? " " Yes," replied the other, " I am Mr. Henshaw ; what can I do for you ? " "I want salvation, sir." " Then come with me." The youth did so, entered the class-room, and told the members what he desired. All knelt down and prayed together, and soon the anxious inquirer found peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. That young man was Charles C. Eorke, a native of BalUnasloe, who had been pursuing a wild and wayward course, but was arrested by the solemn warnings and triumphant death of a dearly loved brother. The young convert then entered upon a brief but remark ably eamest and successful career. Having removed to Manchester, * Irish Evangelist, 1881, p. 751. 472 HISTORY OF METHODISM. and been greatly quickened there, he joined a prayer-leaders' band, visited some of the lanes and back streets of the city, and addressing himself to a number of his fellow-countrymen, succeeded in gathering many of them to hear the Gospel. The Lord began to work among them by His Spirit, and thus a gracious revival commenced. It was soon discovered that Eorke possessed gifts of no common order, and that he ought to exercise them more pubUcly than he had done. Accordingly his name was put upon the local preachers' plan, by which means he became more ex tensively known and much more useful. Having laboured in this capacity for some time, he was proposed and accepted as a candi-- date for the ministry, and sent to the Theological Institution at Eichmond, where he remained for three years. The labours and success of this period cannot be chronicled, for he was admitted by his fellow-students to have " laboured more abundantly than they all," and tidings were borne from each of his services of the salvation of souls. While successful as a revivalist in the country places, he felt there was special need of concentrating his work in the town of Eichmond. Here, therefore, he formed a new con gregation, and preached from week to week, and his labours were so Divinely owned that at the end of his collegiate course it was deemed advisable to retain him as a home missionary. The high estimate formed of him by his ministerial brethren may be inferred from the following extract from his obituary record: " His eamest spirit did not wait to have work laid out for him, but he made opportunities for himself. His voice was often heard in the highways, beseeching men to be reconciled to God. He had a powerful and abiding conviction of the value of souls, and would toil unweariedly in search of even one ' lost sheep,' frequently bringing it to the fold rejoicing. No second thought seemed to possess his mind ; the salvation of men was the topic of conversation wherever he was, and his very face would shine while he told of his having ' seen hundreds of sinners seeking the Saviour.' His preaching was attractive and powerful, and his appeals to the conscience were eminently successful. In visiting from house to house he was indefatigable, and by this means he brought many within the range of his influence for good. Traces of usefulness are visible in every place where he laboured, and many will be ' the crown of his rejoicing ' in the day of the Lord. CHAPTER XXXVII. — 1856. 473 He died very suddenly, soon after preaching, and pfeople mourned for him ' with a great and very sore lamentation. ' " * A few glimpses are given of the earnest and successful labours of the general missionaries. At Cookstown, through the Divine blessing on the labours of Mr. Campbell, Messrs^ Hugh M'Gahie and Charles Wilson, with others, were won for Christ. On the Tan deragee circuit " there were large congregations and conversions at every place visited by Mr. Hewitt. New places also were opened for preaching, a large increase took place in the number of members, and the classes generally were much revived." At Eathfryland, Samuel Weir, who had been converted three years previously, but lost his assurance of the Divine favour, was restored to the joys of God's salvation. At Newtownbarry the meetings were full of life, and Mr. Hewitt, with great tact, earnestness, and success, endeavoured to lead sinners to the Saviour. From Donegal the Eev. John Feely writes, "During the year we have been enabled to open our beautiful new chapel in Dunkineely. The weather proved favourable, although it was vrinter ; the attendance was numerous and respectable, and the response to the appeal of the preacher good. It was a time of sacred joy to our people, and many others seemed to participate in it. Since the opening services, the ministry of the word of life seems more than ever appreciated by the people, who esteem it a great privilege to assemble for Divine worship in this commodious buUding. Our chapel in Ardara was fast falling into ruin, but is now being repafred, and will soon be ready for reopening. These are tokens of the good hand of our God upon us, and yet we have better proofs than these. Early in the year several persons pro fessed to have found peace with God through faith in Christ ; and recently we have been again cheered by the conversion of others, some of whom had been strangers to us, and they have seen it to be their duty and privUege to unite themselves with our section of the Church. Some Eoman Catholics have heard the truth occasionally, chiefly at funerals and field-meetings, and many would hear were they not afraid." t Mr. James Wilson was appointed by the Primitive Wesleyan Conference to the Charlemont circuit, where a meeting of the * Minutes of the British Conference, 1870, p. 35. •f- Hibernian Missionary Report, 1856. 474 HISTORY OF METHODISM. preachers, stewards, and leaders was held, and a series of resolu tions passed, by which those present pledged themselves to increased effort, prayer, and fidelity in the use of the public means of grace, as well as to abstain from all intoxicating drinks, except when necessary as a medicine ; and they were not long vrithout manifestations of the Divine approval. At the following quarterly meeting at Dungannon the Spirit of the Lord descended in mighty power, cries for mercy were heard in every part of the house, and many obtained a sense of God's forgiving love. At the meeting in Moy, which followed, similar cheering results were witnessed. Special services were then held in different parts of the circuit, and they were greatly owned of God. Thus the good work deepened and spread, and the preachers, as the year closed, had the joy of returning a good increase in the membership.* The Conference of the Primitive Wesleyans began its forty- first annual meeting in Dublin on June 23rd. Dr. Heather was elected President, and Mr. John White Secretary. Three candi dates, including John C. Eamsey of Dublin, were received on trial, and no death was recorded as having occurred amongst the preachers during the year. The returns from the several stations showed a considerable augmentation of numbers ; for after filling up all vacancies occasioned by emigration, death, and religious de clension, there was an increase of seven hundred and twenty-two members, about a thousand souls having been converted within the twelve months. The Connexional funds stood well, and there appeared in every department of the Society's affairs cheering prospects of continuous and extending prosperity. The Wesleyan Conference met in Dublin on June 24th, under the presidency of the Eev. Isaac Keeling, who was accompanied by the Eevs. John Farrar and William Arthur, A.M. Eight candi dates were received on trial. These included Irvine Johnston of Dooish, on the Castlederg circuit, George Kirkpatrick of Moysnaght, Tempo, Edward, son of the Eev. William Guard, James B. Atkins, and James OUver. Five ministerial brethren had died during the year — Samuel M'Dowell of Belfast, Henry M. Beale, A.B., and Joshua Harman of Dublin, John Jebb of Londonderry, and George Grant of Limerick — and each passed away with a glorious hope of a blessed immortality. The reports as to the state of the work were * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1857, pp. 116-18. CHAPTER XXXVIL — 1856. 475 most cheering. Conversions to God and additions to the Societies had taken place on some circuits, which had they been general, would have rivalled the most prosperous periods of the history of the Church in this land, so that notwithstanding a loss by emigra tion of four hundred and sixty members, there was a net increase of two hundred and three. This was a small addition, yet coming as it did after eleven successive years of diminution, it was received vrith devout gratitude as a token that the long night of weeping had passed away, and a day of hope and joy had dawned. The report of the Committee for the Increase of Wesleyan Agency was also very encouraging. The movement commenced so vigorously at the previous Conference had been prosecuted with such grati fying success that subscriptions had been given in this country to the amount of £14,000, nearly three times the sum originaUy expected. The Eevs. Eobinson Scott and William Arthur, A.M., the American deputation, stated that they had met with a most cordial reception from their Transatlantic brethren, many of whom had entered most heartily into the project, so that nearly £9,000 was promised. The presence of Mr. Arthur at the Conference was a special source of devout gratitude. A dangerous illness with which he had been seized, some time after his arrival in America, had awakened in this country the deepest concern, and fervent prayer was offered for his recovery. When, therefore, his Irish brethren saw him among them fully restored, and heard from his own lips of the steadfastness of those who had left their homes, and of their kindly remembrance, not only of their native land, but also of the Church by means of which they were converted, they thanked God and took courage. The Eev. William Eeilly was appointed to accompany the Eev. Eobinson Scott to America, and complete the work thus begun. Although the former was seventy-five years of age, he prosecuted the object of his mission with wonderful energy, until the widespread financial panic which came upon the country rendered further effort inexpedient. During his stay he attended nearly twenty annual Conferences, and preached in the charges belonging to many of them, advo cating the cause of Irish Methodism, and presenting what he believed to be the true remedy for the maladies of Ireland. On some days he travelled on foot seven or eight miles, preaching three times, delivering three several addresses, and making as 476 HISTORY OF METHODISM. many coUections. Yet he was not, during the entire time, one hour without the full enjoyment of health. At one of the Con ferences the venerable Dr. Charles ElUott kindly laid his hand upon his shoulder and said, " Brother Eeilly, I am proud on your account ; I am tall, as Americans say : you are never sick, you are never tired, you are never angry, you never complain. I am proud of you after a godly sort." * The Eev. James Collier was appointed to the Boyle circuit, on which he says the people were the kindest that he had ever met with. Messrs. Mark Crawford and John Laird — son-in-law and son of Glover Laird, Carrick-on-Shannon, t and thus Methodists of the third generation — were the pillars of the cause, and their relatives were all over the circuit and heartily identified with the Society. At Castlereagh the ministers were entertained by Mrs. Cotton, sister of the Eev. William Cornwall, and her husband, who kept the lamp of the Lord burning in this dark neighbourhood. On August 12th the Eev. WilUam G. Campbell writes, " The Lord Jesus has given me six new openings since Conference, and if I called Arvagh one I could say seven. I preached in the old Eoman Catholic chapel of that town to at least one hundred and fifty people, and saw about forty penitents crying for mercy. The day at CorUsbrattan was an extraordinary one. Last Sabbath the field-meeting was to have been held at Ballyjamesduff, but we had to go to the house. Yesterday I came to Virginia, in order to get a footing, if possible ; and although it was dark as midnight, the Lord caused the light to break forth in obscurity. I preached to twenty adults, and published for to-night, when I hope to have a larger number." On October 7th he writes, " The Lord has remarkably poured out His Spirit on Ballymote and CoUooney. Mr. Cooper gave me the large market-house last Sabbath, and it was filled to overflowing, and also last night. I shall not mention numbers, but the professions were many."| On the 30th Mrs. Whittaker of Sligo writes, " We have had quite a shaking of the dry bones here of late. Many have been awakened to conviction of sin, some backsliders recalled, and some brought to a knowledge of the truth. The instrumentahty is Mr. Campbell, an Irish missionary, who appears to have inex haustible strength, for night after night his meetings are canied • Irish Evangelist, 1869, p. I. f Vide ii., p. 117. % Unpublished letters. CHAPTER XXXVII. — 1856. 477 on for hours, when all the energies of mind and body appear fully on the stretch." * The Eevs. Samuel Johnston and .Tames Oliver were appointed to Lovrtherstown, and in nearly every place they visited on their circuit had the joy of seeing souls brought to God. Amongst those thus won for Christ were William J. Eobinson, now of Londonderry, John W. Jones, who entered the itinerancy, and William Porter, who became a most laborious and acceptable local preacher. The lovefeasts, especially at Lowtherstown, were generally times of great power and blessing, so that they some times continued for six or seven hours, and were brought to a close with difficulty ; but often not before twenty or thirty were led to t'ne foot of the Cross. Open-air services also were fre quently held, large numbers attended them, and many outside the pale of Methodism were in this way reached. Thus at the end of the year there was a net increase in the membership of one hundred. Notwithstanding these successes, however, the good work was more or less interfered with by the tippling habits of some of the members, upon whom discipline had to be exercised; by the very low standard of giving acted upon by many more, although their hospitality was of the most generous and lavish character ; and also by a servile attachment to and connection with the Established Church. The Eev. John Wilson was appointed to Belfast South, with the Eevs. Eobert G. Jones and James B. Gillman, and says that, with the assistance of Mr. John Caruth and others, he held a weekly prayer-meeting in the Fall's road chapel, at which many souls were converted. He was also in the pulpit of this buUding when it was surrounded by a mob, that broke the large plate- glass windows and otherwise injured the house, while he him self escaped by the interference of a publican. Yet Mr. Wilson preached in the open air in almost every street, from Wesley place to Fall's road ; hundreds of Eoman Catholics, as well as Protestants, Ustened, and he did not receive the slightest annoyance. The Primitive Wesleyan chapel in High street, Holywood, was offered by Mr. John White to the Wesleyans for sale, and thus passed into the hands of the Society on the Donegal square circuit. On the Carrickfergus cfrcuit, where the Eevs. Thomas Ballard * A Tribute to the Memory of Mrs. Whittaker, p. 60, 478 HISTORY OF METHODISM. and Colin M'Kay were stationed, there was a very blessed revival, more especially in the neighbourhood of Larne. Amongst others converted were a number of young men, who have rendered exceedingly valuable service to the cause of Christ. These included John W. A. Macwilliam and Eobert Boyd, who after wards entered the itinerancy, together with Mr. John A. Bowman, who also has been engaged in earnest and successful Christian work. To this devoted youthful band may be added the name of Thomas Knox of Ballygowan, who about three years previously, in his father's house, realized peace in believing, and has proved a faithful and laborious minister of the Gospel. The Eev. Eobert G. Cather, A.M., was appointed to take charge of the Coleraine circuit, and entered into his work with the energy and ardour for which he was so remarkable. Soon a marked improvement took place, the congregations greatly in creased, and a very gracious work commenced among the members. Not satisfied with these tokens of success, Mr. Cather determined to make aggression on the mass of people living in ignorance and sin. A town mission was projected, a suitable brother appointed as a missionary, and a school started at Killowen. This soon developed into a ragged-school, which commended itself to public sympathy, so that subscriptions were freely given for its support. In connection with this excellent institution there was a good Band of Hope, and also a penny savings' bank. Subsequently this work was taken up by a committee, consisting of members of different Evangelical Churches, and by their influence the excellent premises now in use were erected. Most interesting and success ful evangelistic services were held in rooms, rented and fitted up for the purpose, in Killowen and Long Commons, and sometimes as many as one hundred persons attended them. The reports from the circuits and mission-stations of the Primitive Wesleyans were encouraging. Messrs. John and John C. Eamsey, who were appointed to Longford and Eoscommon, say, " We commenced our labours immediately after Conference, and from that period to the present have been uninterruptedly employed in preaching, visiting, holding prayer-meetings, and tract-distributing, and, vrith thankfulness to God, are enabled to report that ' we have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.' In some of the remote and mountainous districts of our field of CHAPTER XXXVIL — 1856. 479 labour there are numerous families of poor Protestants who hail with delight our monthly visits. We are the only ministers of Christ who seem to care for their souls. With us they gladly share their homely fare, and from us they joyfully receive the glad tidings of salvation. Very frequently numbers of persons flock into their cabins, and amongst them not a few Eomanists, to hear the word of God. The congregations generally are im pressed ; several members have been added to the Society, some of whom, we believe, are hopefully converted to God, and others are ' inquiring their way to Zion, with their faces thitherward.' The great mass of the people, however, in this country are totally destitute of the life and power of godliness, and are living ' without God, and without hope in the world.' There are many Protestants as ignorant of the Gospel and as destitute of religion as the unenlightened Eomanists, who are denied access to the sacred volume." Maguiresbridge had in the previous year been favoured with an abundant outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and the Lord con tinued to carry on the blessed work. Mr. John Todd writes, " God has been going through the circuit as a mighty conqueror. Many have been subdued under His word ; old and young have yielded to be saved by grace. Frequently persons come six or seven mUes to our lovefeasts, and many have had to go away for want of room, while others, who could not get inside, stood about the windows. At some of these meetings the cry for pardon would rend the stoutest heart — indeed, it was so great that it seemed as if those who uttered it felt that they were on the brink of hell ; but in most cases sorrow was soon tumed into joy. T saw parents in the arms of their children, and children in the arms of their parents, rejoicing together in God. Last year upwards of three hundred and fifty members were added to the Society. Since Conference we have had some glorious meetings. Still, notwithstanding the success with which it pleased the Lord to crown our feeble efforts, we had to deplore that parts of the circuit remained hard and unyielding ; but some of these have lately been broken down, and many persons at them have given themselves to God. In one of these places twenty came forward as penitents seeking mercy. At our last quarterly meeting in FivemUetown there were about thirty anxious inquirers, many of 480 HISTORY OF METHODISM. whom returned home rejoicing in the Lord. At Pubble we had much of the presence and power of God ; the people spoke freely, and at the close about twenty penitents came forward. We have seventy-eight classes on this circuit, and the same number of leaders, men of God, who, with few exceptions, are willing to make great sacrifices to assist in carrying on the work. Frequently they leave their homes, travel miles to meet the preacher, and then assist at the services. Some of them, on Sunday mornings, after haring met their classes, go through their respective neigh bourhoods, bring the unconverted inhabitants together, and by exhortation and prayer endeavour to lead them to the Saviour. We have also band-meetings, chiefly of young men whom the Lord has raised up as helpers, so that when the aged are obliged to quit the field these young persons will be ready to supply their places." Concerning Lowtherstown Mr. John Ker reports, " The cause of God seems to flourish on this circuit ever since the Conference. The congregations are generally very large, and much good has been done. Many have been brought to inquire what they must do to be saved. On the fair-day at Pettigo in July I preached in the street to thousands, including hundreds of Eoman Catholic pilgrims to Lough Derg ; all listened with the greatest attention, and many said that I told nothing but the truth. The following fair-day I took my stand near the market-house, gave out the hymn beginning ' Jesus the name high over all,' had at least a thousand hearers, and while I proclaimed a free, full, and present salvation to Eomanists and Protestants, all heard with deep attention, and I heard the cry of penitents seeking for redemp tion through the blood of Christ. We have abundant cause of thankfulness to the Great Head of the Church for the manifesta tions of His power and mercy with which we are favoured. Our quarterly meetings were indeed 'times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord.' At Lowtherstown the congregation was much larger than on any preceding occasion for many years, and the people spoke with great freedom. At the concluding prayer- meeting an invitation was given to those who felt their need of pardon to come forward ; and many responded, almost all of whom found peace with God. Our meeting at Pettigo was a memorable one ; the house was crowded, and to persons unaccustomed to CHAPTER XXXVII. — 1856. 481 revival scenes the service would have appeared noisy ; but it was the noise of broken-hearted sinners groaning for deliverance, and of rejoicing believers as they laid hold on Christ for salvation. Many who went to the meeting heavy laden had their burden removed, and returned home praising God. Numbers throughout the circuit have tasted the sweets of forgiving love, some in public, others in private, and several in the retirement of the closet." Mr. Eobert Kane adds, " We held our quarterly meeting in Fintona, on the same day as that in Pettigo, and we also had a crowded house and much of the presence of the Lord. The freedom vrith which the people spoke was indeed cheering and profitable. The prayer-meeting with which we concluded was greatly acknowledged of the Lord, and some of the penitents pro fessed to have received ' the knowledge of salvation by the remis sion of sins.' It was said to be the best meeting except one that had been in Fintona for six years. Upon the whole, this circuit is greatly revived." Ms. Alexander CampbeU of Lurgan says, " We have had the advantage this year of entering on the labours of valuable brethren who lately filled this station. At the close of last year the Spirit of God infiuenced some hearts. Others since then have submitted to the Lord and found mercy. Some new members have been added to the Society, and the congregations in several places are considerably enlarged, but in others thej continue small. Our leaders in general are useful, and some of them are in the habit of going through a round of labour on the Sabbath involving considerable bodily fatigue. At our quarterly meeting in this town, in addition to a good attendance and an encouraging relation of Christian experience, the prayer-meeting at the close was very good. Nearly thirty persons presented themselves as anxious seekers of mercy, and many of them were enabled to rejoice in the forgiveness of sins. We have lately got possession of a valuable preaching-house in this town, erected by the Methodist New Connexion, to which we purpose removing our services shortly." This building was purchased for £340, and upwards of £100 in addition was expended in painting and otherwise improving it. The reopening services were conducted by Dr. Heather and Mr. John White, who preached to crowded congregations. VOL. III. 31 CHAPTER XXXVIII. 1857. On January 13th, 1857, the Eev. WiUiam G. CampbeU writes from EnniskiUen, " The work in Donegal, SUgo, Ballyshannon, and Manorhamilton justifies a return visit. The three last I have revisited with profit. The work in them, as well as in this town, is deep and likely to last. Here it is even more powerful than last year. I have now to assist brother Johnston of Lowtherstown, who had his shoulder dislocated by a fall from his gig, then I go to Donegal, where the work is marvellous, even among Eomanists." * The Society in Sligo sustained no ordinary loss in the removal by death of its most zealous and devoted member, Mrs. Whittaker. She had often expressed a wish that she might " cease at once to work and live," and said she would have no objection to Ue down to sleep and awake in eternity. On June 15th she visited several friends, collecting subscriptions for the missions, and rejoicing in the goodness of God in enabling her to exceed former amounts collected ; " for well she knew," she said, " that her gracious Master would never forsake her." Thus the very last day she spent on earth found her in all the activities of life — visiting the sick and attending to each customary duty. In the evening she attended public service, afterwards met one of her classes, prayed with a friend in her own apartment, and then, apparently in perfect health and in a peculiarly happy frame of mind, retired to rest, and awoke in eternity. On the following moming she was found as if in a placid sleep, with a sweet smile on her countenance, and so little of death in the expression that her maid felt unwilling to disturb her. Having walked with God faithfully and conscientiously for more than forty years, she was not, for God took her. * Unpublished letter. CHAPTER XXXVIII. — ^^1857. 48.3 From the annual reports of the Wesleyan missionaries the following extracts are worthy of record. The Eev. Henry Geddes of Lucan and Trim says, " In nearly every part of this mission the Gospel is Ustened to with attention, and in some places it has proved the power of God unto salvation. The members of the Society in general give evidence that they are growing in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. The new chapel at Trim was opened for Dirine worship on May 14th, when the Eev. T. T. N. Hull preached, and a large congregation listened with deep interest, and responded Uberally to the appeal of the preacher." From Connemara the Eev. William B. Le Bert writes, " Although the accessible population is very limited, we are able, nevertheless, to reach a few, to whom the word of life is ministered with cheering results. In Clifden we have now an interesting cause, there being a nice congregation, a Society formed into two classes, a Sunday-school, and regular Sabbath and week-day services ; but a chapel is much needed. Notwithstand ing obloquy, contempt, and exclusive dealing, our members have stood unmoved, trusting in the care of their heavenly Father." The Eev. Eobert Bell, who was appointed to Westport, states, "Two new classes have just been formed — one in Newport,, and the other in the island of Achill. The failure and consequent withdrawal of the Irish Church missions from this entire district seems to have more fully confirmed Eomanists in their own prejudices and in their contempt for all Protestant Evangelical labours. There are, at the same time, some gratifying exceptions ; individuals are met who listen with marked attention and deep feeling when addressed on the saving truths of the Gospel. The arrangements for the erection of a new chapel at Newport have been carried out. By a vigorous and united effort, this neat and substantial edifice, situated within a few yards of the house where the Eev. William Arthur spent his boyhood, was completed in April, and immediately afterwards opened for Divine worship under encouraging circurhstances." In Donegal the Eev. Edward Best found a people prepared of the Lord, and during the first round of the mission made by himself and his colleague, the Eev. James Edwards, the Lord poured out His Spirit as a prelude of subsequent shower.'? of blessing. Twenty-two persons in one place, and a few in some 484 HISTORY OF METHODISM. others, professed to have obtained peace with God. The con gregations increased so rapidly that in most of the country places and two of the chapels the audiences were oppressively large ; nor could dark night or long and perilous journeys over mountains, moors, and rivers prevent the people from flocking to hear the word of life, although often obliged to stand around the doors and windows during service. Many of these meetings lasted six or eight hours, and on a few special occasions the most of the night was spent weeping with those who wept and rejoicing with those who rejoiced. The leaders and people gave themselves afresh to the Lord and His service, and co-operated heartily in the blessed work. Persons who had been invited from a distance to the services returned to their homes and told what great things the Lord had done for them. Great excite ment prevailed in some districts amongst the Eomanists, four of whom were savingly converted, and a fifth, who had professed conversion, was compelled to yield to the intolerance of the priest and his friends. Some lingered around the doors and windows, and were kept from openly avowing the convictions they felt by the terror which prevailed among them. The chapel at Ardara having been reopened, a gallery had to be erected to accommodate the increased congregations, and even the new house at Dunki neely proved altogether unequal to the demands for accommoda tion in it. The senior general missionary, the Eev. William G. Campbell, in his report, says, " In July and August I visited the province of Leinster, and in September and October Connaught. In some parts of the Boyle and Sligo circuits, especially Ballyfarnan, Ballymote, CoUooney, and the barony of Leyny, the new openings and tokens of the Lord's presence were equal to any I have seen in Ireland. The same may be said of Donegal, Lowtherstown, Churchhill, and Cavan, in each of which it has been my happiness to see sinners converted to God. The labours of the year have been on twenty circuits and missions; between four and five hundred sermons have been preached, and many other meetings held; thousands of tracts and books have been distributed, as well as numerous copies of the Holy Scriptures. In general the Government has afforded your missionary the protection of the law, and on one occasion of special interest a strong force of CHAPTER XXXVIII. — 1857. 485 police attended and preserved the peace while he preached. In some places no such protection can be relied on." The second general missionary, the Eev. Eobert Hewitt, writes, " During the year I have visited thirty-five circuits and missions, and on each, with only one exception, have seen souls savingly converted. I have travelled about four thousand one hundred miles, and preached three hundred and twenty-five times, besides holding other services and distributing about five thousand tracts and copies of the Scriptures. I have seen a great number of persons who profess to have been awakened and converted by the preaching of the word, while thousands have Ustened, in fairs, markets, fields, houses, and other places, to that Gospel truth which they would not otherwise have heard. I have observed f many people, in the open street, weep under the word, and some fall down on their knees to plead for God's pardoning mercy." * The good work in connection with the labours of the Primitive Wesleyans on the Maguiresbridge circuit continued. Mr. Todd writes, " We have had very blessed quarterly meetings. In FivemUetown the house was crowded ; many were unable to get in, and about twenty were enabled to rejoice in a sin-pardoning God. At Pubble we had a good attendance, and fifteen professed to have been set at liberty. In Maguiresbridge there were over twenty penitents, and most of them found mercy. At Lisbellaw we had a blessed time, and sixteen souls were hopefully converted. So great was the distress of the penitents that their cries eould be heard afar; but their sorrow was soon tumed into joy. A daughter of one of our leaders was amongst those who were made happy in God ; but her sister, who was present, seemed to resist the Holy Spirit. After the close of the meeting, I, with others, went to this brother's house, and when tea was over requested all present to sit down, and each one to say in turn, ' My Jesus ! ' Some joyfully repeated the words ; but others could not, and felt it. Many wept, and three, including the girl who had appeared so hardened, cried aloud for mercy. Prayer was offered on their behalf, and not in vain ; for after long wrestling the poor penitents were filled with peace and joy in beliering. Thus father, mother, and chUdren all united in praising God." t * Hibernian Missionary Report, 1857. f Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1857, p. 120, 486 HISTORY OF METHODISM. ' Considerable interest was attached to the erection of a school- house at Glackadrumman, Inishowen. This building, which afforded accommodation for about two hundred persons, together with rooms for the teacher, was built chiefly through the exertions of IMr. WilUam Flaherty, at a cost of about £167, and was opened early in June, in connection with a tea-meeting. Those present, including a considerable number from Londonderry, filled the room, and several appropriate addresses were delivered. A Presbyterian congregation at Stirling generously promised to contribute £30 annuaUy towards the support of the teacher.* On June 24th the Primitive Wesleyan Conference com menced its sessions in Dublin. Mr. William Craig was elected President, and Mr. Eobert Kerr Secretary. Five candidates were received on trial, including William Conlin of the Athlone circuit, Alexander M'Cormack, and John M'Cappin ; and one of the supernumerary brethren, James G. Brown of Newtownbutler, was reported as having died. For several years he had been paralyzed, yet continued to preach the Gospel with power and acceptance, having to be carried to and from the house of God. As to the state of the work in general, it is said in the Pastoral Address, " After a careful and searching review, we are bound to state that while there are discouraging circumstances in con nection with some of our circuits and missions, there is blessed evidence that our Society is not only in a healthy, but a prosperous and improving condition. The extensive religious awakenings which so greatly cheered us this time twelve months have steadily progressed during the year, while other fields have received a blessed baptism of the Divine Spirit, so that many sinners have been converted to God." After filling up vacancies, the increase in the membership amounted to one hundred and seventy-nine. An improvement also took place in the prorision for the support and comfort of ministers, for it was resolved that owing to the great advance which had taken place in the price of provisions, the annual allowance to preachers' wives should be increased from £16 to £20 ; that a committee should consider what additional assistance could be given to superannuated preachers and preachers' widows ; and that a room should be provided for the accommodation of each of the unmarried preachers ; * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1857, pp. 307-9. CHAPTER xxxvni. — 1857. 487 while in reference to the increased use of intoxicating drinks the foUowing resolution was passed : " That the members of the Conference having heard the principles of the United Kingdom AlUance for the Suppression of the Liquor Traffic explained, express thefr entfre sympathy with the movement, and pledge themselves to use thefr influence to promote it." The Wesleyan Conference was held in Cork, the preparatory committees beginning on June 17th, and the Conference on the 2Sth. The Eev. Eobert Young presided, and he was accompanied by the Eevs. Isaac KeeUng and Dr. Hannah, a deputation to Ireland from the American Episcopal Church, consisting of Bishop Simpson and the Eev. Dr. [M'CUntock, was introduced, and it is an interesting coincidence that on receiving these honoured brethren the Conference was assembled in the city where the remains of one of the first [Methodist missionaries sent to America rest until the moming of the resurrection. Four candidates, including George Barnes of Lurgan and WUliam H. Quarry, were received on trial, while three aged ministers, Edward Cobain of Belfast, Eobert Crozier of Enniskillen, and George M'Elwain of Blackrock, were reported as having died during the year, and each ended his days rejoicing in the prospect of a glorious immortaUty. [\fr. Crozier Uved to the unusual age of ninety-two years, and preached the evening before he died. "IMind," said he that day to a friend, " God vriU revive His work at home and abroad. He wiU make Methodism a greater blessing than it has ever been. Look at it rising, phoenix-Uke, from the fire, and spreading its pinions for a wider and higher flight." Although the tide of emigration had carried away nearly five hundred members, there was a net increase of three hundred and twenty-five. In the Address to the British Conference it is said, " There are few parts of the kingdom which have not had tokens for good, while in some the Spirit has been largely poured from on high. On the Enniskillen district and Donegal mission — places which suffered much in the recent vicissitudes of Ireland, and in which many faithful servants of the Lord toiled and wept and prayed — have been reaUzed the beautiful description of the prophet, ' The mountains and the hills shaU break forth before you into singing, and aU the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thom shall come up the fir-tree, and 488 HISTORY OF METHODISM. instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle-tree ; and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign which shall not be cut off.' These ' showers of blessing ' have been vouchsafed to the labours of the faithful men who were stationed in those localities and to the visits . of our general missionaries. The latter instru mentality has been greatly owned of God during the year. In most parts of the country, in markets and fairs, in streets and lanes, as well as in our ordinary places of worship, the brethren set apart for this work have preached the unsearchable riches of Christ to attentive congregations, and many have turned to the Lord. In no single year, for a long period, were we able to report so many conversions from Eomanism — conversions not merely from one system to another, but conversions in which the subjects of the change, after hearing the truth as it is in Jesus, ' first gave themselves unto the Lord, and then unto us by the will of God.' " While thus the reports from the circuits and missions were, in -general, indicative of healthful spiritual prosperity, it was cheer ing to observe a steadily increasing interest in the financial con cerns of the Church. This was evident not only in enlarged Connexional funds, but in the improvements adopted with reference to ministerial support. Perhaps there was not a body of Chris tian ministers on earth who could say to the people of their charge, " We seek not yours, but you," with greater emphasis than the Irish Wesleyan ministers. Those of them who had personal property had freely consecrated it to the support of the cause to which they had given themselves, and those who had none had laboured on amid privations which many would think scarcely credible. Now and then a laborious and successful minister was forced by the pressure of poverty into premature retirement, yet few inquired how far the Church had obeyed the ordinance of God that " they who preach the Gospel should live of the Gospel." But the dawn of a better day now appeared. Eamest men took up the subject, and showed that it was a vital one, while several circuits adopted a greatly improved scale of ministerial aUowance. This was apparent, as it was found that a number of circuits had adopted the recommendation of the Belfast Committee with regard to the minimum allowance to ministers ; others were taking steps towards a similar arrangement, and the allowance to the children of ministers, for maintenance and CHAPTER XXXVIII. — 1857. 489 education, was extended from fourteen years of age to sixteen. The Eevs. Daniel Macafee and Gibson M'MUlen were elected to accompany Mr. Waugh as Eepresentatives to the British Confer ence. The public services held in Cork and the neighbourhood were distinguished by grace and power, while the magnificent and powerful sermon preached by Bishop Simpson from 1 John v. 4 can never be forgotten by those who had the privilege to hear it. Owing to the great success which attended the work in the county of Donegal, a third minister was appointed to the mission, so that the Eev. Edward Best had now for his colleagues the Eevs. John Wilson, who resided at Dunkineely, and William H. Quarry, whose headquarters were at Ardara. The missionaries write, "It is our privilege to record our gratitude to the Giver of every good and perfect gift for the very marked prosperity with which He has blessed us. We rejoice to say that, of the hundreds converted last year, very few have left their first love. In places formerly discouraging we have been cheered by very large congregations and many remarkable conversions. The appointment of a third minister has been a great blessing, and has enabled us to give regular Sabbath services to our principal congregations. It is delightful to see our chapels, particularly Dunkineely and Ardara, crowded with devout hearers, many of whom come four or six miles to hear the word of Ufe. Our sacra mental and lovefeast services are seasons never to be forgotten. We have received more than usual attention from the Church of Eome. The priests in two or three localities cursed us and many of our people, some of whom have been frequently denounced, their servants taken away, and, but for a special providence, seriously injured. Some windows also have been broken, and the congregations othervrise annoyed, at a number of our preaching- places. We regret still more that other professed ministers of Christ have given us many sad examples of what may be done by persons professing to be in the Apostolic succession." * After filUng up all vacancies in the membership, at the end of the year the servants of God had the joy of reporting a further increase of one hundred and forty, with one hundred and thirty- six on trial. The Eevs. John Dwyer and Andrew Armstrong were appointed * Hibernian Missionary Report, 1858. 490 HISTORY OF METHODISM. to Portadown, ahd were favoured with cheering tokens of the Divine blessing in saving power. There were numerous conver sions, sometimes as many as seventeen at one meeting, and amongst those led to the Saviour was a young man who had been preaching the glorious Gospel in London. Mr. John Shillington, especially, threw himself with great heartiness into the evangeUstic work ; and Samuel Cowdy, who had been brought to decide for God two years previously at the Connexional School, Dublin, began to work for Christ as a local preacher. At Cloncore, where drunkenness and immorality prevailed and sports were pursued, on the Sabbath, to an extent unusual in Ulster, a pious couple being concerned for a wayward son, had recourse to special prayer, and were at once answered in a marked change in his spirit. This encouraged the mother to ask Mr. ShilUngton to preach in the neighbourhood. He did so. At the meeting some were awakened and converted, a few days afterwards the young man referred to obtained peace with God, and the work spread for miles round. The place in which the people worshipped soon proved too small, and Mr. Shillington provided, at his own expense, a wooden build ing, capable of containing about two hundred persons, and desig nated it the "Tabernacle." This was subsequently enlarged to nearly double the size. A brief glimpse is afforded at the labours of the Eev. Eobert Hewitt at Waterford, where he held a week of special services, which proved the means of much and lasting good. One outcome of the services was the formation of a young men's class for the study of the Scriptures and prayer, and it greatly helped many, some of whom are now preachers of the Gospel. Amongst those converted was a young man who has been very useful as a leader, trustee, and Sunday-school superintendent in London. Another led to the Saviour has done a good work in connection with the Frederick street circuit, Belfast ; and a third, Edward De Courcy, has proved a most acceptable and devoted Methodist minister. JMr. Hewitt also spent a week labouring in connection with the town mission in Coleraine; large numbers attended the services, and the Spirit of the Lord was poured out upon them abundantly. At the first and second meetings more than twenty persons professed conversion and promised to meet in class; and at a Society tea-meeting held in the old chapel school-house there CHAPTER XXXVIII. — 1857. 491 were present thirty-one members of the Society, the fruit of this important mission. Some of those converted at that time are now doing well in America, and others have passed to the home above, leaving a cheering testimony behind them. Mr. Cather entered very heartUy into the work of holding field-meetings, the largest of which were held on DuumuU hill. At one of these services, conducted by him and the Eev. William Crook, jun., it was estimated that at least fourteen hundred persons were present. How far these meetings contributed to the success ofthe subsequent revival eternity alone can tell. The reports from the circuUs and mission-stations of the Primitive Wesleyans were encouraging. From Cork Mr. Thomas C. Maguire writes, "After my arrival here in July last, on examining the state of the Society, I found that religion was at a very low ebb ; the members were irregular in their attendance at class-meeting, and the prayer-meetings had for a long time been badly attended. I called the leaders together to consider the affairs of the Society and pray for an improved state of things, and found them willing to co-operate in the use of means for a revival. I then preached a course of sermons on the nature, necessity, and. advantage of prayer. Special meetings were appointed to plead for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, which were well attended, and to some extent owned of God. Shortly afterwards I saw a gradual improvement in the attendance at the classes, the prayer-meetings increased three-fold, and deep anxiety was evinced by the leaders and many of the members for the conversion of sinners. But nothing remarkable took place until the beginning of November, when we held a series of special meetings ; the Lord made bare His holy arm, and many sinners were cut to the heart, while some were filled with peace and joy in believing. Every Sunday night except two, since then, we have had protracted penitent-meetings, at which sinners sought the meicy of God, and frequently on other evenings we have had similar manifestations of the Divine presence. Our December lovefeast was one of the best I ever witnessed, and many of those lately brought to Christ declared what the liOrd had done for their souls."* Concerning Maguiresbridge Mr. John Todd reports, "The '*. Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1858, pp, 111-12. 492 HISTORY OF METHODISM. Lord continues to acknowledge our feeble efforts, and souls are being saved. On Sunday we held the last of our six lovefeasts for the past quarter, and at each of them we had much of the presence and power of the Lord, On most of these occasions the preaching-houses could not contain the people who came to hear the word of Ufe ; there were a large number of penitents, and many of them went home rejoicing in the pardoning mercy of God. In connection with one of the Sunday-schools there was a remarkable outpouring of the Holy Spirit, through the Divine blessing on the efforts of some young men. Amongst the fruit of their labours are many of the scholars and one Eoman CathoUc youth. A family altar has been erected in his home, at which, moming, noon, and evening, the prayers and praises of the wor shippers are presented to God, and he has been appointed an assistant class-leader." * In Belfast Mr. John White took a noble stand in defence of street preaching. He and other ministers had been in the habit of proclaiming the glad tidings of salvation in the open air without interruption, but now a preconcerted attack was made on those who attempted to do so. When the clergy of the EstabUshed Church signified, by bills, their intention of preaching in the open air two local newspapers made an attack on them and their work, called them opprobious names, and invited the mob to silence them. This had the desired effect; and though some faint attempt was made by the authorities to supj)ress the riotous proceedings, they acted with such indecision and apparent anxiety to conciliate the Eomish rabble that the disturbance only became more violent. Under these circumstances the Bishop requested his clergy to desist, and accordingly they did so. This was a great triumph to the Catholics, and it was published in all directions that street-preaching was put down. Then the Eev. Hugh Hanna came forward, stated his intention to preach in the open air, and did so to a large congregation. But while he and this vast assembly were engaged in the service a mob of about five hun dred men came upon them, yelling loudly and throvring stones. About forty young men, however, soon scattered them, leaving the audience free to hear to the end in peace. The rabble then went through the town, and beat with stones and sticks those, including * Primitive Wesleyan Method'ist Magazine, 1858, pp, 50-51. CHAPTER xxxvin. — 1857. 493 chUdren, whom they met and thought were Protestants, A fort night later [Mr. Hanna attempted to preach again, in a large yard enclosed with a high waU ; but the police drove him and his audience away, amid the jeers and yeUs of the rowdies. On the foUovring day the walls of the town were covered with placards, stating that " open-air preaching was put down by order of the Govemment. ' The friends of the Gospel looked on in amaze ment, and feared that a measure of thefr religious liberty had been wrested from them. MeanwhUe Mr. White continued to preach every Sabbath in the streets and lanes of the town as before, and without any annoyance. When, however, the Belfast Presbytery condemned [Mr. Hanna's conduct, and requested him to refrain for some time from preaching in the open afr, [Mr. White felt it to be his duty to go forward, and arranged for a Sunday service in Agnes street. About four thousand persons were present, and not a voice was Ufted to interfere with the meeting. He then pubUshed for a service on the foUowing Sabbath, on the quays, at the place from which [Mr. Hanna had been ejected by the poUce. About five thousand persons attended, including several Eomanists, and aU hstened vrith the deepest attention. By special request he then announced he would preach there again on the succeeding Sunday. The day was anticipated with deep anxiety by the friends of rehgious Uberty, and many a prayer was offered that God would restrain the evil passions of men and give a blessing with His word. When the appointed hour came the people crowded from every dfrection, untU not less than ten thousand persons assembled. As they sang the hymn beginning " Jesus shall reign where'er the sun" a grand burst of praise ascended to heaven; and during the sermon the deepest attention prevailed, God evidently apply ing His word to the people's hearts. On the same day there were three others who preached without molestation in the open afr in other parts of the town. Thus not only was a right asserted, but multitudes who had been careless about reUgion were drawn to hear the Gospel with deep interest, and by means of the services started tn this way many were led to the [Method ist chapel, and became regular hearers. So God made the wrath of man to praise Him, and brought great and permanent good out of apparent evil. CHAPTER XXXIX. 18 58. Early in 1858 Mr. John Henning, of the Primitive Wesleyan Conference, writes from Springfield, " It is with feeUngs of pleasure, and I trust with gratitude to God, that I now give an account of the spiritual state and prospects of this circuit. Since this time last year, so far as I can learn, over one hundred persons have been hopefully converted, the greater number of whom are young men, and many of them the children of our own people," This good work, it appeared, commenced at the Derry gonnelly March quarterly meeting of 1857, and from that time the Holy Spirit was poured out abundantly ; meetings for prayer, held principally by the leaders, were multiplied, and the people flocked in large numbers to these and the preaching services. " My colleague, Mr. James Elliott," adds Mr. Henning, " engaged in this good work with all his heart, and I cannot speak too highly of the leaders, who also threw themselves with all thefr soul into the movement. Many of these excellent men, after a hard day's work, traveUed miles to prayer-meetings or preaching services, and then spent two or three hours in directing anxious souls to Christ. The means used in promoting this revival was the preach ing of God's truth, accompanied by the ardent prayers of God's people." * The membership was thus raised from six hundred and thirty-one to seven hundred and sixty. The Eev. William G. Campbell held special services in several places, which were greatly blessed. Amongst the rest, those at Cavan were much owned of God, and proved the means of the conversion of a number of young men, who both in the itinerancy and out of it have done a noble work for Christ and for Methodism. These converts included Wesley, son of the Eev. * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1858, p. 176. .CHAPTER XXXIX. — 1858. '-.^CJ^ William Guard, Stewart Smith, William Lough, and Charles Hayes. One of the EngUsh missionary deputation to the north, this spring, has placed on record his impressions with regard to 'what he saw in Ireland. Concerning Portadown he says, "Here Methodism is stronger in proportion to the population' than in any other town in Ireland, or indeed than in many towns in England. The public coUections for the missions were very large, exceeding in amount the proceeds of most of the branch anniver-^ saries in London. Nor are the claims of home overiooked, as in some other places. Portadown is one of the very few' Irish cfrcuits in which an adequate provision is made for the sustenta- tion of ministers on the spot. In numerous cases the original financial rule of the Society has been lamentably neglected, while exceUent ministers have endured humiliating privations or been driven to America. Happily, a better state of things has been inaugurated. Irish [Methodists only require to be informed on this subject in order to be just to their preachers and wise for themselves." 'With regard to the Society as a whole the writer states, "It is impossible to make this tour without being impressed with the value of Irish IMethodism. Its importance in holding up the light of truth amid surrounding darkness, and in provoking other Protestant Churches to a beneficial rivalry in evangeUstic efforts, can hardly be over-estimated. Nor is it less valuable as a feeder to the Churches of American and colonial Methodism." * The accounts furnished by the Wesleyan missionaries of their work during the year were cheering. The two general mission aries visited nearly all the cities and towns in the kingdom, together with a great number of smaller places, in which they preached in the markets, fairs, streets, fields, chapels, barns, houses, and by the wayside, seeking to be instant in season and out of season and to do good unto all men. In some places the door of opportunity for open-air services was shut against them, and it was deemed unwise to attempt to force it ; but in others, more especially in the north, a wide door was open, and it was used with good results. One missionary laboured in forty-four circuits, the other in thirty-six, each generally giving one Sabbath to each * Primitive M'l-.slegan Methodist Magazine, 1858, pp. 80+, 809, 496 HISTORY OF METHODISM. circuit. One writes, "Out of eighty-five out-door services, in only one case have I met with serious interruption." The othei says, " We had plenty of noise, but no blows." Multitudes, including many Eomanists, thus heard the message of mercy. One of the missionaries writes, " I am thankful that my health has enabled me to preach on an average nine times a week, and to hold, during the year, three hundred and eighty protracted meetings." The other, who laboured in a part of the country much less favourable to such services, pursued a similar course with similar results. Many thousands of tracts and some copies of the Scriptures, in whole or in part, were distributed where there appeared a probability of their being read. Thus many who, but for this mission, might never have heard of salvation were led to embrace it." The missionaries appointed to stations, in general, report an increase in both numbers and finances, the securing of some new openings, and tokens of the Divine presence in saving power. Arrangements were made for the erection of two or three new buildings, some old ones were repaired, and a few long-standing debts were paid off. Grateful reference is also made in many instances to the manifest blessing received in connection with visits from the Eev. WilUam G. Campbell.* The Primitive Wesleyan Conference met in Dublin on June 30th. Mr. John White was elected President, and Mr. Thomas Wilson Secretary. William Lutton, who had been called out during the year, was received as having travelled twelve months ; and two respected supernumerary brethren, James Eobinson of Manorhamilton and Edward Sullivan of Dublin, were reported to have died. On a review of the state of the several circuits and missions, it was found that the work of the Lord was in general prospering ; that on some stations extensive revivals had taken place, many souls having been brought to God ; and there was a net increase in the number of members of two hundred and sixteen. The Wesleyan Conference was held in Dublin, the preparatory committees commencing on June 15th. Owing to the difficulties . with which the Connexional School had to contend, the review of its affairs was anticipated with some anxiety, but the result was * Hibernian Missionary Report, 1858. CHAPTER XXXIX. — 1858. 497 highly encouraging. There had been, under the efficient manage ment of the Eev. Eobert Crook, LL.B., a steady increase of pupils ; the educational department had made most satisfactory progress, several of the boarders had given evidence of a work of grace in their hearts, and the Committee felt assured that with the Divine blessing on such means as had been employed, the institution would surmount its difficulties and prove a lasting benefit to the youth of Irish Methodism. The Eevs. Eobinson Scott and WiUiam Eeilly were present at the Committee of the Fund for the Increase of ^^'esleyan Agency, and gave a pleasing aceount of their reception in America. The financial panic in that country, and the consequent commercial depression, had operated against the early payment of many of the subscriptions, but it was found that upwards of £7,000 had been transmitted through the hands of the deputation, while upwards of £10,000 had been received from subscribers at home. These sums were provisionally dis tributed among the objects originally proposed, and sub-com mittees were appointed to meet during the year for the purpose of considering the best mode of appropriating the amounts thus allotted so as to secure those objects. On June 23rd the Conference assembled in the Centenary chapel, which was draped with black, as an expression of sorrow on account of the loss the Christian Church had sustained by the death ofthe Eev, Dr. Bunting. Methodism in Ireland had derived great advantage from his warm attachment to its interests, while the memory of the wisdom of his counsels and the power of his ministrations was most gratefully cherished. The chair was occupied by the Eev. Francis A. West, who was accompanied by the Eev. John Farrar. Isaac Davies, of the British Conference, was received as having travelled twelve months, and five candi dates, including John Bates of Ballymore, Samuel Dunlop of the Tanderagee circuit, and Edward Harte, were admitted on trial. Five ministers— Samuel Downing of Belfast North, John Holmes of Athlone, John Nesbitt of EnniskUlen, Francis Stephens of Donegal, and John Wiggins of Belfast South-— were reported to have died during the year. All the Connexional funds were found to be in a healthy state, some showing an encouraging increase, and none a decrease. [Many, it appeared, had sought and received the Spirit of power, and in various parts of the Lord's vineyard VOL. III. '*' 498 HISTORY OF METHODISM. great fruitfulness had been witnessed ; so that notwithstanding a loss of four hundred and seventy-four members by emigration, there was a net increase of one hundred and nineteen. The Eev. Samuel Johnston was appointed as a third general missionary, and the Eevs. William Cather and Joseph W. M'Kay were elected to accompany Mr. Waugh as Eepresentatives to the British Conference. In autumn a remarkable seriousness was observed to pervade not only the Wesleyan Methodist congregations of Portadown, but those of other denominations. Eevival services were held by the Eev. Eobert Hewitt, and were much owned of God, leading to the conversion of E. Crawford Johnson,* Anthony Cowdy, and many others. The classes were increased, and a general quickening was manifest. A meeting for inquirers held each Monday evening also proved the means of much good. Through all this there were none of the young men of the congregation who appeared so uninfluenced or unapproachable as Thomas Shillington (2nd), and one of his cousins, until one Sunday evening, after service, as they walked together, the younger of the two abruptly said, " I have been saying to myself, but I did not care to say it to you, that if ever we are to get religion it's time we were thinking of it." This simple statement, accompanied by the Holy Spirit, proved more effective than all the sermons to which these young men had listened, leading them to resolve to turn to God. Both attended the inquiry-meeting on the following evening, and some time afterwards each obtained a clear evidence of pardon and acceptance with God, " On the KUlala mission," says the Eev. Andrew Armstrong, " the Lord graciously blessed us ; and at Ballina, under the superintendency of the Eev. Edward [M. Banks, we also had many conversions. At Killala I made the acquaintance of that remark able man the Eev. P. O'Flaherty, who had just returned from the Crimea. He was a wonderful linguist, having a marvellous facility for acquiring languages, and had acted as an interpreter in the Turkish army. He helped me at many services, and in a large Temperance meeting which I conducted in the Presbyterian meeting-house, Ballinglen, joined the Total Abstinence Society." * Son of Alexander Johnson of Antrim. CHAPTER XXXIX. — 1858. 499 Mr. O'Flaherty subsequently went as a missionary to Africa, and there, after a brief and most successful career, died of fever. The Eev. John Donald was appointed to the SUgo circuit, and found that the persecution of 1843-44 had continued with more or less intensity. An application had been made to Joshua Cooper, Esq., the lord of the soU, to ratify the purchase of a site for a chapel in CoUooney, but he had declined to do so unless no services could be held in it, in addition to those usuaUy conducted in the town, without the consent of the rector; but to this restriction the leaders in SUgo refused to consent. When all hope of obtaining suitable ground was almost given up a most eligible plot was offered for sale by the Government, and im mediately secured by the Society. On applying to the authorities at Dublin Castle for the papers necessary to complete the deed of purchase, they sent, amongst others, the original conveyance of the whole estate from Lord Belmont to an ancestor of Mr. Cooper, which subsequently proved of great value ; for Mr. Cooper held the plot in question, was very angry on hearing that it had been purchased by the Methodists, and declined to surrender it. A colonel was sent to make the transfer, and having taken luncheon at Markree Castle, came into CoUooney, where the three trustees of the Society * were waiting for him. He then took up the deed just executed, and letting it fall, said, " Gentlemen, your title to this property is not worth the paper it is written on." "If this document does not please you," replied Mr. Leech, "perhaps the old deed from Lord Belmont to the first Joshua Cooper wUl satisfy you." " Can I see that ? " inquired the colonel. "Yes." "Then I will go to SUgo with you, and examine it." He did so, and saw that it conveyed the entire estate, " save and except the barrack plot which is the property of the British Government." This settled the question of title, and the authorities therefore undertook to compel [Mr. Cooper to give up possession, which he did most reluctantly and not until the last moment, when he saw there was no other resource. The duty of making the transfer was assigned to the barrack-master of SUgo, and had he been unfriendly he could have occasioned considerable delay and trouble ; but it pleased Providence, just at this juncture, * Messrs. George Leech, Eobert Hunter, and Thomas H. WOliams. 500 HISTORY OF METHODISM. that a Methodist held the office. He at once went to CoUooney to do his duty, and met Mr. Cooper's agent, who began to quibble about some small part of the field. " Are you," said the captain, with indignation, " one of the men who have given the Methodists so much trouble about this plot? and are you come to dispute with me about a bit of a corner, the size of a devil's cocked hat ? " At this warm reception the agent gave up the contest. Possession having been given, and an architect and builder secured, opposition assumed a different form. Through the influence of Mv. Cooper and the curate, the new erection was " boycotted," so that the people of the neighbourhood declined to give either stones or sand, to afford accommodation to workmen, or in any other way to assist the undertaking. Thus from 1855 to 18S8 no progress was made in the building, but now Provi dence opened the way to carry on the work. A young man from Ulster had come to SUgo twenty-five years previously, had made some money, with which he purchased a little estate on which there was a quarry, about two miles from CoUooney, and he most freely consented to give the stones. It then so happened that the railway line from MuUingar to Sligo was in course of construc tion ; the contractor purchased a sand-bank, and on one of the leaders, Mr. William Jackson, stating the case to him, he at once gave orders that the Methodists should have as much sand as they required. Thus the work was proceeded with, until the walls were raised to their full height, when they were observed by a gentleman who happened to be a visitor at Markree, and in quired of his host what the building was. Mr. Cooper had not known until then that the building was going on, as no one had dared to tell him, and now he was greatly enraged, more especially as he had made a vow that if the chapel were built and the site retained he would never enter CoUooney again. He therefore sent for the trustees to converse with them about a change of site, and they waited on him, accompanied by the Eev. John Donald ; but as nothing would satisfy the landlord except a full and unconditional surrender, they could not consent thus to sacrifice the interests of Methodism and the cause of Christ. The building was at length completed, and arrangements were made for its opening by the Eev. Eobert Masaroon. Some timid CHAPTER XXXIX. 1858. 501 friends thought that the people would be afraid to attend the service, but they came in crowds from all quarters. The little square or triangle in front was fiUed with vehicles, and some of the drivers being pressed for room, unwittingly took their horses into a yard belonging to Mr. Cooper's agent. The ostler ran to his master and said, " The Methodists are putting their horses into your stables." "For God's sake," repUed the agent, "let them alone ; the town is full of them." Seeing still a want of room, and the owners at a loss where to put their horses and cars, [Mr. Donald went amongst them, and pointing to the entrance of a large yard, which belonged to one of Mr. Cooper's carpenters, said, " If that gate will open you might go in there." Whether there was a friend in the yard who heard the words, or some other agency was at work, did not appear, but immediately the gate flew open, and JMr. Donald said, " Now there is a place for your horses and cars," and in they went. In the chapel itself, which. seats about two hnndred and fifty persons, there was not standing- room for the congregation, so, as the day was beautifully fine, the service was held in the adjoining green plot. Meanwhile a mob of the baser sort had assembled to disturb the proceedings, and as they approached the building there arose in their midst what appeared to be a whirlwind, causing a cloud of dust and leaves,. blowing off some of their hats, and filling them all with the ut most terror, so that the ringleader shouted, " Boys, it is the vengeance of God on us ; let us fly." This providential interposi tion saved the worshippers from what might have proved a series of fatal disasters, for it was discovered that the ruffians had arranged to take the linch-pins out of the vehicles, so that wheiL the horses were again yoked in them, and the travellers seated,, they might be thrown to the ground as the wheels rolled off. There were some remarkable instances of self-sacrifice and devotion to Methodism in connection with the erection of the chapel at CoUooney. The three Sligo trustees made a noble stand for the cause, regardless of personal pecuniary loss. Not withstanding numerous and strenuous efforts of persons of influence. Miss Benson and other hosts refused to withhold the kind hospitality tbey had long and generously given to the ministers. Joshua Woodland suffered persecution rather than abandon the Church he loved. But the most marked case was 502 . HISTORY -OF METHODISM, that of Mr. Andrew Graham, a leader and local preacher, who had charge of the observatory at Markree. Before the chapel was completed Mr. Cooper said to him, " Graham, if you go to the opening of the Methodist chapel you will lose your situation. Think over it before you come to a decision." " I have done so," replied Mr. Graham, " and my mind is made up that my family and I will go to the opening service. I am ready to sacrifice my situation, but I will not for any consideration violate my conscience." This resolution Mr. Graham carried out, for which he was deprived of his situation ; but in time the Lord opened his way to the position which he now occupies in Cambridge, being in every respect a much more desirable one. It was also a noteworthy circumstance that all who took a leading part in opposing the erection of this chapel died within a short time of its completion. The curate, who was chiefly the cause of all the opposition, took suddenly ill one Sunday, as he stood in the desk of the church, fell down, and in a few minutes expired. A gentleman who complained to Mr. Donald that the building would spoil his view of the country, and thought to stop its progress, died before the walls were sufficiently high to interfere with the prospect from the windows of his house. Mrs. Cooper, who was most active in her opposition, was seized with a disease in her tongue, which ended fatally. Mr. Cooper, although a strong and healthy-looking man at the time of the opening services, gradually sank, and within two years finished his earthly course, but not before he saw the wrong he had done, sent for a Methodist leader whom he had ordered not to enter the Methodist chapel, and said, " I no longer debar you from your place of worship. Go and worship God where your conscience dictates," which he gladly did. During this the third year of the appointment of the Eev. Edward Best to Donegal there appeared no signs of declension in the good work which had been going on so long on the mission. The congregations both in the chapels and at the field-meetings continued as large as before, and the Lord accompanied the preaching of His word with similar tokens of His presence and power. Many young people were converted, for whose benefit libraries and mutual improvement societies were formed, and the leaders became increasingly devoted to their work. Mr. Best CHAPTER XXXIX. — 1858. 503 estimated that during the three years not less than six hundred souls were won for Christ, while the membership rose from four hundred and thirty-five to eight hundred. Many Eomanists were brought under the influence of the movement who did not come out boldly for Christ here, but subsequently emigrated to America, and there took the stand which they feared to take at home. At Loughros Point a school-house and teacher's residence were built, at Dunkineely the preaching-house had to be enlarged so as to accommodate about two hundred additional hearers, and at Donegal a new chapel was erected at a cost of upwards of £1,000. At the opening services of this house there was a crowded congre gation, the Eev. Gervase Smith preached from Ephesians ii. 1, and the collection amounted to £35. An interesting tea-meeting was held in the basement story in the evening. On the following Sunday the Eev. Eobert G. Cather, A.M., preached in the morning from John iii. 30, and the Eev. Eobert Wallace in the evening from Matthew xxi. 13. Mr. John White, the President of the Primitive Wesleyan Conference, gives an exceedingly cheering view of the cause in Belfast. He says, "For upwards of three years God has been pouring out His Holy Spirit on the Society in this town, and making bare His arm in the conversion of sinners, so that a constant steady work has been progressing. There has been no great excitement, such as we witnessed in connection with other revivals, nor has there been at any time a great number of additions to the Society, but there has been an onward movement in every department of our cause. The congregation in Donegal place has gradually increased, from being very small till now ' the place is too strait for us,' being filled with a most attentive and prayerful audience ; anew congregation, consisting of between two and three hundred, has been formed, and the classes have largely increased." The means by which this blessed work was commenced and carried on were the offering up by true Christians of united and persevering prayer, the seeking and realizing the all-cleansing efficacy of the Saviour's blood, and the putting forth of faithful and fervent efforts to lead sinners to Jesus. A few of the Lord's people engaged to meet every morning, at half-past six o'clock, to plead with God for the salvation of sinners and the deepening of the work of grace in those who had submitted to 504 HISTORY OF METHODISM. Christ, and there were such displays of Divine power at these services as those present had rarely, if ever, before witnessed.* From the Tanderagee circuit Mr. John Thompson writes, "Many and ardent prayers here were offered to God that He would pour upon us the Spirit of grace and of supplication, and the Lord was intreated, so that many sinners became eamest seekers of salvation and were hopefully converted. This blessed work began at Derryanvil, where are many walking in the way of their devoted fathers. Then the revival spread to Derryall and all the country round, where number,s have been brought to the knowledge of the truth, and the truth has made them free. There is a very blessed work going on also at Maghon and Derryhale, and souls are being converted to God. My colleague, brother James Elliott, has been very zealous and active in this good work ; and so are many of our leaders, who labour much in holding meetings, sometimes travelling miles to and from them, and not getting home until a late hour. At three services, held on the same night in different places, sixteen persons were brought out of darkness into the light of the Lord." It was estimated that at least one hundred and fifty souls had been converted, the classes were greatly increased, and the congregations became so large that sometimes the houses could not accommodate those who desired to be present.f » Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1858, pp. 363-67. t Ibid, pp. 368-69. CHAPTER XL. 1859. The year 1859 is memorable in the annals of Ireland as that of the great revival which quickened the spiritual life of the Pro testant churches and proved fruitful in blessing to untold thou sands. Its origin was simple. The Eev. William G. Campbell being most wishful to be able to preach .to the Irish in their own language, in the autumn of 1857 paid a visit to Antrim, where the Eev. John Feely was stationed, and requested him to give the needed instruction. He consented, on condition that Mr. Campbell would hold a series of special services while in the town — terms that were most congenial to the general missionary. These meetings were held, were largely attended, and proved the means of a vast amount of good. Amongst the many converted to God was a young man named James M'Quilkin, a Presbyterian from the parish of Connor, who soon afterwards, with a heart full of love to Christ, returned to his native district of country. Meanwhile here another young man, a member of the same congregation, was led to seek and find a clear and joyful sense of his acceptance with God. In September, the very same month in which the first noon-day prayer-meeting, the harbinger of the great revival, was held in New York, James M'Quilkin, Jeremiah Meneely, John Wallace, and an old Wesleyan named Eobert Vance joined together in Christian fellowship, to pray for God's blessing on the people around them. They met in a little school-house, and for three months their prayers seemed to rise to an unheeding Heaven. In December one conversion revived their hearts ; in the course of the following month, there was a second led to the Saviour ; and three months later two persons, who had been frequently prayed for, were brought to know the Lord. Thus slowly and silently did G od at first work 506 HISTORY OF METHODISM. and thus steadily did these disciples continue to wait till His Spirit was poured out abundantly from on high. ' Meanwhile accounts were pubUshed of the wonderful awakening in America and the vast numbers who had been converted to God. Intimations also were given, chiefly by those who risited the neighbourhood, of the blessed work in the parish of Connor, where during the whole of 1858 conversions, sudden and clear as those narrated in the New Testament, took place. Thus throughout Ulster, especially, the attention of the unconverted was directed to the subject of vital godliness, and a spirit of holy expectation was excited in the minds of true Christians, leading to much and fervent prayer. The way in which the revival spread was in keeping with that in which it began. Early in 1859 one who felt the joy of pardoning love filUng his own soul longed to see his mother, who lived in the neighbouring parish of Ahoghill, as happy as grace had made himself, and therefore got one of his comrades to join him in earnest prayer for her conversion. Then he went home to see the effect, and to his joy and wonder, found that while they had been praying deep conviction had seized his mother's conscience, and she sought and found mercy. This triumph of prayer was no sooner won than came the question, " Where is my brother ? " " Away at a cock-fight." Thither the young Christian followed him, and seizing him, said, " I have a message for you from the Lord Jesus." This went to the heart of the wayward youth ; he, too, felt the pangs of deep repentance, and soon fled for refuge to the hope set before him in the Gospel. In the joy and simplicity of his heart, he ran away to his minister, exclaiming, " I am saved ! I am saved ! " The ambassador of Christ at first feared that the convert was only heated with some passing fervour, but on investigating the case, said, " I wish we had some of those young men over here to hold prayer-meetings." This wish led to the coming of converts from Connor to tell the people of Ahoghill what the Lord had done for their souls. It was a strange thing to hear weavers, stone-breakers, butchers, and others unskilled in speech pouring forth effectual, fervent, and withal reverent and thoughtful prayers. It was more wonderful still to hear them tell how the Lord had sent His arrows through their souls, and how He had forgiven the iniquity of their sin. CHAPTER XL. — 1859. 507 The power of the blessed Spirit accompanied the simple story, the hearts of the people were broken, and then began those over whelming affections of body and mind which resounded through the world, and made the revival notorious to the religious and the curious alike.* Early in AprU the good work extended to Ballymena ; men and women from the adjoining country, while engaged in their ordinary calling, were stricken in the open streets, and led to cry aloud for mercy. In this way a profound and wide-spread im pression was made, and meetings for exhortation and prayer were held, until all business seemed at a standstill. The ministers of the different Protestant denominations threw themselves unitedly and heartily into the work, and the congregations of each participated in the reviving influence. In common with their brethren, the [Methodists shared in the showers of blessings, large numbers flocked to the services in the chapel, and the slain of the Lord were many. Although a goodly proportion of those thus converted remained in connection with the Churches of their fathers, yet the increase to the Wesleyan congregation was such that the chapel had to be considerably enlarged, the classes were increased from two to six, tract distributors were appointed, and a promising total abstinence society was established. The Eev. William Crook, jun., when news of the revival began to spread, went to Ahoghill, saw and judged for himself, and brought back with him to BaUymoney some of the young men recently converted. Aided by these converts, he immediately commenced a series of public services which were characterized by remarkable displays of Divine power. From BaUymoney the good work spread to Coleraine. Mr. Crook arranged for an open-air meeting, on the Fair hill, on Tuesday, June 7th, a day never to be forgotten in the history of the town. By a singular coincidence, an arrangement was also made by some of the Presbyterian brethren for a similar meeting on the same day, on the opposite side of the river ; but by consultation apparent opposition was prevented. The weather was beautifully fine ; immense crowds, including ministers and members of all denominations, flocked from all directions ; addresses were delivered by two of the recent converts and others. * Arthur's Beginnings of a Great Eevival, pp. 11-13. 508 HISTORY OF METHODISM. and the Spirit descended in mighty power, so that many were deeply convinced of sin and stricken to the ground. The work thus begun spread, with marveUous rapidity, to the homes of the people, until the whole town was in one glorious revival flame. [Many similar gatherings, on the Fair hill and elsewhere, were held subsequently and with like results. On the night of the 9th some one suggested that the town-hall, just completed, would be a fitting place to shelter the many stricken ones who continued in the open air crying for mercy, and the suggestion was at once acted upon. A sacred interest, therefore, is attached to this beautiful building, from the fact that the first use for which it was employed was to shelter poor sinners while they agonized in prayer for the pardon of their sins. On Friday, June 10th, the gracious work broke out in one of the schools of the Irish Society, then under the care of Mr. Canning, a respected leader in the [Methodist Society, One of tbose converted on that day has proved a highly esteemed and useful officer of the [Methodist Church, During a subsequent visit of the Eev. William Arthur the chapel was crowded at a fellowship-meeting, which was remarkable for the rich spiritual blessings enjoyed by those present and the precious testimonies borne as to the fruits of the revival. The work now spread to the north-west. A gentleman in New townUmavady having visited Ahoghill, and witnessed the good work there, was so deeply impressed that on returning home he arranged for a meeting in his own demesne on the following Sunday. About ten thousand persons were present ; the Eev. James Donald delivered the first address, and during it the Spirit of the Lord was poured out from on high ; a stricken case occurred, and a work of grace commenced that led to the conversion of about one thousand persons in the town and neighbourhood. One Sunday a young woman was stricken in the Eoman Catholic chapel, and the doors were immediately closed to prevent her screams being heard outside. Another Eomanist was stricken in her own house, and on her father praying to the blessed Virgin to come and banish the evil spirit, the girl cried, much to his annoyance, " None but Jesus ! none but Jesus ! " From this town the revival extended to Londonderry. The Eev. Eobert Wallace having visited BaUymoney and secured the CHAPTER XL. — 1859. 509 assistance of some of the young converts, arranged for special meetings in the city on Sunday, June 12th. At the morning service in the Wesleyan chapel addresses were delivered by the converts, one of whom said that he had been greatly addicted to drink, but after his conversion hated it and all sin. It had been stated, be added, that it was the work of Satan, but he was sure the devil had never put him frorn drinking whisky. He was followed by a young man, the narration of whose experience was so extraordinary as to remind one forcibly of the conversion of Colonel Gardiner. A young woman also spoke with simplicity and power. As, however, Mr. Wallace calmly read a letter from the Eev. James Donald, giving an account of the revival on his circuit, the congregation was startled by a sudden cry from a man who, with outstretched arms and upturned face, presented a picture of misery. Tbe Eev. James Donnelly, who was present, spoke to the poor sinner, directing him to the Saviour, and as he repeated the cheering invitation in Matthew xi. 28 the penitent sprang to his feet, his face beaming with joy, and referring to his burden of guilt, exclaimed, " Thank God, it's all gone now ! " This was the beginning of a glorious work during which hundreds were led to Christ. On the following day the Evangelical ministers in the city met for breakfast, and arrangements were made for a united attack on the kingdom of Satan. For six weeks in succes sion there were held daily a union prayer-meeting in a lecture- room or hall, an aftemoon open-air service in the Victoria corn- market, and an evening service in each church, and these were attended by large congregations. The city and country were wonderfully moved, secular business seemed almost at a standstill, and there was scarcely a Presbyterian meeting-house for miles round in which [Mr. Donnelly did not preach or take some part in the service. The good work also spread in other directions. Ahoghill Ues to the north-west of Connor, Ballyclare to the south-east. Here, in May, a large fair was held, during which a slater, named Samuel Todd, a wicked backsUder, was told that there was a man in the fair who had lost his reason. Todd hastened to the fair hill, and there saw a man from the neighbourhood of Broughshane who as he came into the town, had been seized with such deep convictions of sin that, regardless of the eye of the crowd or the 510 HISTORY OF METHODISM. course of business, he cried aloud for mercy. The slater as he looked on became deeply concerned about his own state, and resolved to seek some one who would teach him the way to the Cross. Making for the direction whence the man who cried in the fair had come, he met with some persons who said, " Go to Connor ; there is the country where you'll find the people you want." He did so, was cordialjy welcomed by the young converts, and at a prayer-meeting on the following day God spoke peace to his troubled spirit. Now as if it had been said to him, " Eeturn to thine own house, and show how great things God hath done unto thee," he did return, told his tale of redeeming love, and soon blessed results followed. At first many feared that his mind had given way, others mocked him, but a few joined him and became just as singular in their movements. On Saturday evening. May 28th, the Eev. Eobert Collier took his stand at the monument, and preached to about four hundred persons, including some of the most reckless characters in the neighbourhood. At the close of the service those who were anxious crowded into an adjoining house, Todd gave them an account of his conversion, and one or two of those present were strangely affected. On the following Tuesday a messenger from Doagh came to Mr. Collier, saying that a young woman had been stricken there while at her work that morning, and was anxious to see him. He went at once, and found that other girls also had been taken from the same mill, apparently in a simUar state, but not really convinced of sin. Next day the work broke out at Ballyclare in a way that far surpassed the highest expectations of the Lord's people. During an open-air service in the neighbour hood numbers were smitten to the ground in penitence of spirit, and cried aloud for mercy, so as to be heard from afar. They returned homeward surrounded by an awe-stricken crowd, weeping, praying, and praising God, and thus moved the whole town. That night houses were to be seen in all directions thronged with people and resounding with words of prayer or songs of thanks giving. Christian workers spoke to and sang or prayed with the penitents until they found peace. Numerous services were held, which were largely attended, frequently addressed by young' converts, and accompanied with marvellous power. Thus the work deepened and spread, bringing under its sanctifying influ- CHAPTER XL. — 1859. 511 ence old and young, the moral and religious, as well as the most abandoned and profligate. Some, it is true, were very ignorant, had little sense of their state, and looked upon their novel experi ence as a kind of epidemic which they rejoiced in getting over easily ; but in general it was far otherwise. On Friday, June 3rd, an open-air service was held at Bally nure to which about three hundred converts marched, singing hymns, from Ballyclare. At least one thousand persons were present, addresses were deUvered by [Mr. Vance of Connor and the Eev. Eobert Collier, and" results similar to those already described followed. One and another were stricken, and carried into the Wesleyan chapel or some friend's house, to be prayed vrith and spoken to, until scores were thus removed. When the day closed it was with difficulty the people could be induced to leave the field, and some would not do so, while all along the different roads homeward people sang, prayed, and in other ways endeavoured to encourage the penitents. On Sunday, .Tune 12th, Mr. Alexander FuUerton preached in the Wesleyan chapel at Hyde Park, one of the leaders gave an account of the revival at Ballyclare and Ballynure, and an oppor tunity was afforded some converts who were present of witnessing for Christ. While one of these, a lad of fourteen from Ballyclare, gave an account of his conversion, and, with tears, entreated the people to come to the Saviour, another lad began to sob and weep. The young convert then ran forward, caught the penitent in his arms, and besought him to look to Jesus, and he would be saved. -The affection of the boy seemed to break down the hearts of the people ; one general cry burst forth from the congregation, and sinners fell all around, confessing their sins and imploring pardon. The saved of the Lord were many, and they were but the first- fruits of a glorious harvest. Meetings were conducted in the chapel every night for seven or eight weeks, and there was scarcely a service at which souls were not converted. At one of these meetings a gay and thoughtless youth, named Andrew M'llwaine, when he saw the people falling down on all sides, fled from the house, lest he should also be compelled to yield, and remembering an appointment with a comrade in another part of the country, hastened thither to find his friend converted, and he himself in the very condition he had dreaded. Thus he was led 512 HISTORY OP METHODISM. to the Saviour and began a course of Christian labour, which eventuated in his entering the Methodist itinerancy. At Belfast this wonderful awakening commenced in Berry street meeting-house, where one of the brethren from Ballymena addressed a large audience, and about twenty persons were seriously and visibly affected. On the following evening the house could not contain one-fifth of those who sought admittance, and when for safety the door was closed those outside, divided into three sections, determined to attend meetings elsewhere, which they did in May street, Eglinton street, and the Primitive Wesleyan chapel, Donegal place. Special services were then arranged for in a large number of places of worship, and at these addresses were deUvered by Messrs. M'Quilkin, Meneely, and other young converts, as well as by ministers. Meanwhile the work spread rapidly in the homes of the operatives, more espe cially in Ewart's row, BaUymacarret, and Sandy row. From hundreds of houses, night and day, were heard loud cries for mercy, the voice of prayer or the sweet soothing tones of sacred song. A large number of Christian workers went about to minister to the religious instruction and spiritual comfort of the poor stricken sufferers, and meetings for prayer were thus held in private houses, at almost all hours of the day and night. The whole town was thus most profoundly stirred. In the midst of these scenes of hallowed excitement and Gospel triumph ministers and laymen assembled in Belfast to attend the annual Wesleyan Committees of Eeview and Conference, the former beginning on June ISth, and the latter on the 22nd. The chair was occupied by the Eev. John Bowers, who was accompanied from England by the Eevs. John Lomas, Francis A. West, and WUliam Arthur, A.M, There were two vacancies on the Irish proportion of the Legal Hundred, and these were filled by the election of the Eev, Dr. Appelbe by ballot and the Eev. John Armstrong by seniority, in the places of the Eevs. John Carey and Eobert Bruce, superannuated. Three brethren were reported to have died during the year. These were Edward Johnston (1st), who had settled in the United States, John Harrington of Newry, and Samuel Johnston ofthe general mission, who finished his course in Lurgan. Seven candidates, including Henry Evans and Eobert Geale of Magherafelt, Samuel Weir of Eathfryland, and WiUiam E. CHAPTER XL. — 1859.' 613 starkey, were received on trial. As the revival outside the parishes of Connor and Ahoghill had not begun until after the membership returns had been made up, the increase of two hundred and eighty-five did not include any of the results of this gracious visitation. The Eevs. Thomas Waugh, Eobert G. .Tones, and Wallace JM'jMullen were elected Eepresentatives to the British Conference, and the Eev. Eobinson Scott to the General Con ference in America. Mr. JM'MuUen was also appointed one of the Secretaries of tbe Contingent Fund, the Eev. Thomas Waugh having retired from the treasurership, and the Eev. Henry Price, who had been Secretaiy, was appointed Treasurer. When con sidered in relation to the general interests of the Connexion, this may certainly be regarded as a most important appointment. In 1853 a new departure had been made in connection with the Contingent Fund, by the establishment of the Cfrcuit Aid and Extension Fund, but much progress had not been effected. Mr. M'MuUen, however, soon mastered the situation so completely that the administration of the fund was practically in his hands, and was brought into most systematic and efficient operation. The numerous public services held during the session of the Conference, not only in the chapels, but also in the open afr, were occasions of great spiritual power and blessing. These meetings were held in all directions and on every day, and on one occasion the Conference adjourned in order that the members might attend a united prayer-meeting in the Music hall, under the presidency of the bishop of the diocese. " Glory be to God," the ministers say in thefr Pastoral Address, " for what we have heard, and seen, and felt during this Conference. The Holy Spirit is graciously at work in the various Churches, and many sinners have been con verted. In public and in private, in the house, the street, the field, the family, and the Sunday-school the Lord Jesus has been saving sinners. In many instances prostration of bodily strength and loud and bitter cries testify to the power vrith which convic tion seizes the mind, but a large number of converts are brought to God without these extraordinary symptoms. There is great demand for the Word of God. The spirit of prayer is very pre valent, large congregations attend public worship, and thousands assemble at union prayer-meetings. At one of our Conference field-meetings, it is beUeved, ten thousand persons were present, VOL. III. 23 514 HISTORY OF METHODISM. and at a union prayer-meeting held in the Botanic gardens it is estimated that twenty thousand were there. At all these meet ings the power of the Holy Ghost rested on the people, many were born again, and there is a general expectation of still greater things." Ministers and laymen, endued afresh with Divine power, returned to their different spheres of usefulness, and thus the gracious work extended wider and wider. The Primitive Wesleyan Conference commenced its forty- fourth annual meeting in Dublin on June 29th. Mr. John Wherry was elected President, and Mr. Thomas C. Maguire Secretary. Three of the preachers, James Herbert of Newry, William Len drum of Nevrtownstewart, and William Stokes of Dundalk, had been removed by death, and seven candidates, including James Carson of Cavan and Eobert Ker of Clones, were admitted on trial. On reviewing the state of the circuits and missions, it was found that the revivals which had taken place on several of them during the preceding year had not only continued, but greatly extended, and that the Society had largely participated in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit with which nearly all the sections of the Church had been blessed. The increase in the member ship amounted to eight hundred and twenty-one, while upwards of two thousand members had been added between the time of the making up of the returns and the meeting of the Conference. During the sessions of this body an unusual sense of the Divine presence and power was felt, and overflowing congregations attended the public services, especially those set apart for reports from brethren who had witnessed and taken part in the great revival. - In July Dr. and Mrs. Palmer, from America, arrived at Belfast, entered heartily into the Lord's work, and rejoiced greatly at the manifest and abundant tokens on every hand of the presence and blessing of God. Eevival services had been held, with blessed effects, in most of the Wesleyan and Primitive Wesleyan chapels, but that in Donegal square had not been equally favoured. This was owing to a change of ministers and other untoward circum stances. Here the American evangelists commenced to work, and in the course of a few days were able to write, " In no place that we hear from is the flame of revival burning more intensely than . in some of the Wesleyan chapels here, particularly Donegal square. CHAPTER XL. — 1859. 515 This commodious and beautiful edifice is nightly filled. A solemn awe seems depicted on every countenance, the large communion rail is at every service surrounded with seekers, and from thirty to forty are, evening after evening, raised up to testify to the power of Christ to save. Our heavenly Joshua, also, is gloriously mani festing His power in bringing His Israel up out of the wilderness into the rest of faith ; among these some are ministers, and several are leading men." * Now the work spread southward. At Lisburn it appears to have commenced in the Primitive Wesleyan chapel. Mr. George Hamilton preached in the street, night after night, and then invited his hearers into the house, until it was unable to accommodate the crowds, sometimes amounting to two thousand persons, who desfred to be present. Cries for mercy were heard in all parts of the building, and there were numerous cases of physical prostration. Amongst those converted were persons of every religious denomination in the town, including Eoman Catholics, who at once repudiated the errors of their Church, f In the gracious fruits of the revival the Dromore circuit, where the Eev. Oliver M'Cutcheon was stationed, participated largely. Much prayer was offered, the congregations increased, and at length the Lord answered by fire. The Holy Ghost descended in converting power, first in the houses of the people, and afterwards on the congregations ; many were cut to the heart and led to cry aloud for mercy. It was a deeply interesting spectacle, on one occasion, when those recently brought to the knowledge of the truth marched in solemn procession through the street, singing hymns, and then crowded into the Wesleyan chapel. The country parts of the circuit, however, shared even more largely than the town in these showers of blessing.| At Banbridge also similar scenes were witnessed, chiefly in con nection with the labours of Mx. Conlin of the Primitive Wesleyan Society. § At Donaghadee the first token of the coming shower was in the Wesleyan Sunday-school, where there was a blessed mani- * Four Years in the Old World, pp. 45 — 58. •j- Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1860, p. 111. t Irish Evangelist, I860, § Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1860, p. 114. 516 HISTORY OF METHODISM. festation of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. A young woman was affected to bodUy weakness, and the work thus begun soon spread until " the town was in a blaze." One Sabbath morn ing, as the Eev. WiUiam Brown preached in the beautiful chapel erected about five years previously in Newtownards, a woman started to her feet, and in tones that startied and thriUed the congregation, shouted, " Jesus is come ! Jesus is come ! " She was removed by the leaders to the school-room ; but soon another and another had to be taken away, untU preaching had to give place to prayer and praise, for many a stout heart was subdued. The news spread; in the evening the chapel was crowded, and thus the revival extended, until its blessed influence was felt in almost every house.* Tbe revival broke out at Lurgan on Sunday morning, July 3rd, in the Presbyterian meeting-house, where a young woman was stricken. In the evening, at the Primitive Wesleyan chapel, there were eight similar cases, including one young person who went to mock, and was carried out calling aloud for mercy. The work soon extended to other Protestant Churches, and the Methodist ministers, both Wesleyan and Primitive, threw themselves into it most fervently, preaching in the open air, holding special serrices in the chapels and other preaching-places, and visiting the penitents in their houses. At one of these meetings, in the Wesleyan chapel the power of God was so manifest that the Eev. John Armstrong exclaimed, " Pentecost returned ! Pentecost retumed ! Glory ! glory ! HaUelujah ! " The Wesleyan chapels at Bluestone, Ballynacor, and Bannfoot were also the scenes of many glorious displays of Divine power and grace. f In the middle of October it was estimated that more than a thousand souls had been converted in the Lurgan Primitive Wesleyan chapel alone. t At Portadown daily union prayer-meetings were commenced in the town-hall, and continued for several weeks, without inter mission, and in various parts of the adjoining country similar means were adopted on a smaller scale. In connection with these services several persons were brought to a saving knowledge of * Irish Evangelist, 1860, pp. 78 and 86. t Ibid, 1882, pp. 946 and 959. J Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1859, p. 363. CHAPTER XIi.^-1859. 517 the truth. On the evening of July 11th the work received a great impulse, and from that date progressed with wonderful rapidity and power. A considerable number of persons had assembled in a field, adjacent to the town, for an open-air service, and as a young man from Belfast told, in a simple and unim- passioned way, what he had seen of the revival, two persons were seized with deep convictions of sin. Next day there was a marked change in the tone of feeling throughout the town. Earnest people were inspired with courage and confidence, fear took possession of many who had been unconcerned, and a spirit of solemnity rested on the entire population. Similar services were held each evening, during the following fortnight, in a field where a new Wesleyan chapel was about to be erected, and at each of these conversions took place, while on one occasion not less than forty entered into the liberty of the children of God. Amongst the trophies of Divine grace were many persons of mature, and even advanced age, and some who had been notorious transgressors. Those who had not bowed in prayer for years, those who had been habitual drunkards, and those who had seldom uttered a sentence without an oath yielded to the influence of saving grace. Several females also, who had sunk to the lowest point of moral degradation and wretchedness, were made witnesses of the Saviour's love, and for them suitable employment was secured. From the town the work soon spread to the surround ing country. The season was a very dry one, and it was customary to hold the Sabbath and week-evening services ih the open air, retiring to some adjacent house to pray with those in distress. Here the local preachers, with Mr. John Shillington at their head, found a congenial field of labour, which they cultivated most dUigently. Many incidents might be given in illustration of the powerful and widespread influence of the Spirit upon the people. Each locality had a history of its own, and no matter how in disposed persons might be to yield to the power of the movement, or even to regard it with any degree of appreciation, they were constrained to acknowledge its superhuman character and its blessed results. At the September lovefeast, when the Wesleyan chapel at Portadown was filled, the large school-room was thrown open, and it was soon crowded ; then the town-hall was secured and proved inadequate, and then the court-house was placed at 518 HISTORY OF METHODISM. the disposal of a fourth congregation ! * Similar success attended the labours of the Primitive Wesleyans on this circuit, and by each Society a considerable amount of additional chapel accommodation had to be provided. The Wesleyans erected houses at Derrylee, Edenderry, Derryall, and Corcrain ; and the Primitives built one at Derryall, and enlarged another at Derryanvil. At Armagh the revival began on August 17th, at a prayer- meeting in the Primitive Wesleyan chapel, where a woman was led to cry for mercy, and did not cry in vain. On retuming home, she proclaimed to all whom she met what the Lord had done for her, and thus next day her dwelling became a house of prayer. In the evening another meeting was held, in the neighbourhood in which she lived, and at it four or five persons were stricken, while seven professed to have obtained a sense of sins forgiven, f Amongst the Wesleyans the first appearance of this gracious work was at a Sabbath-school festival. While an address was delivered to the children, the Holy Spirit descended in great power, and cries arose from almost every pew. Soon some rejoiced under a sweet sense of pardon, while others wept, and one " could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of weeping." Little groups of children, singing and praying, formed in every comer of the chapel. Such was the sacred influence which rested on all that a quantity of fruit, brought for distribution, was quite forgotten, and it was near midnight before the chUdren could be got to retire, with their parents, to their respective homes. The revival now spread through the city in all directions. Meet ings were held in private houses, in bams, and in the open air. On September 14th a field-meeting was held, to enable people to attend which excursion trains were run from Belfast and Dublin. About fifteen thousand persons were present. Dr. Lynn presided, and addresses were delivered by ministers and laymen in different parts of the field. Deep conviction of sin seized many hearts, and numbers fell to the ground crying for mercy. The EeV. Eobert Huston counted eight of these congregations, and there were twenty-five professed conversions in the meeting conducted by the Eev. Eobert Hewitt. The quarterly lovefeast was held soon afterwards, but the chapel was quite insufficient to hold * Memorial of T. A, Shillington, J.P,, pp. 141-48. f Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1860, p. 40. CHAPTER XL. — 1859. 519 the congregation. So one half went into the newly erected school-house, where thoy were ably addressed by the Eev. Henry Evans, while those in the chapel were favoured with a powerful discourse from Mr. Huston. A number of persons were stricken, and were then removed to the parlour of the adjoining manse, where the leaders prayed with them and pointed them to the Lamb of Ood. One girl, the daughter of a leader, was in deep distress, and cried out in an agony, " Lord, I cannot wait another moment. Have mercy upon me." The next instant she jumped up from her knees, clapped her hands, and with a countenance beam ing with joy, sang tbe refrain of a then very popular hymn — " The Lord has pardoned all my sins ; That's the news, that's the news." Many found mercy that day, and such a scene of rejoicing was witnessed as had never before been seen in the city.* In addition to Ai-magh, the places on the circuit most largely blessed were Killylea, College Hall, Eichhill, and [MarkethiU. Hundreds were added to the Society, and new classes were organized in all directions. At [MarkethiU the work first appeared in the Wesleyan Sabbath-school, at the annual festival on August 2nd, and from this centre it spread to all the neigbbom-ing Churches. Thus the good seed, which had been sown by loving labourers, was quickened, aud brought forth much fruit. At Killylea such numbers assembled night after night that the usual preaching- place could uot accommodate them. Therefore a barn was rented, and in it hundreds were converted to God. One girl, who obtained mercy there, died soon afterwards, and her dying request was to be buried in the adjoining graveyai-d, as she wished to have her remains laid as neai- as possible to the place where God had spoken peace to her soul. The membership of the Primitive Wesleyans on this circuit was increased from thi-ee hundred and forty to one thousand. For some time the minds of the people at Moy had betn deeply impressed. Open-air services were held at which there was manifested much of the Divine presence, and at length the refreshing shower descended. On Sunday evening, July 1 1th, the Primitive Wesleyan chapel was crowded ; the power of God came dowm on the people ; several fell from their seats, stricken, * Lynn's Wesleyan Methodism ou the Arm:\gh Circuit, pp. 138-40. 520 HISTORY OF METHODISM. and others who attempted to run away from the presence of the Lord were, in the porch or at thefr own houses, overtaken by an influence they could not resist. The services were continued with simUar tokens of the presence of God, the news spread widely, and many came from a distance to see and hear for themselves. The September lovefeast, says Mr. Heatley, was the most extraordinary meeting ever witnessed in the neighbourhood. About six hundred persons squeezed into the chapel, while as many more were outside. It proved a veritable Bochim, for the preacher had no sooner announced his text than the pent-up feelings of the people burst forth, and preaching was rendered out of the question. Black watertown, Tamnaghmore, DerryscoUop, and Killyman, as well as Cookstown, also partook largely of the blessings that the Lord poured out on the people.* At Aughnacloy the servants of God had been anxiously and prayerfully looking for a share in these blessings, and on July Sth a young man who had been stricken a few days previously on his way home from the market delivered an address at a place about two miles from the town ; the power of the Lord descended on the people, and about eight or ten persons were smitten to the ground. So loud and bitter were their cries that they were heard afar off, and a young man at a distance, hearing them, was himself seized with conviction of sin, and cried aloud for mercy. The work thus begun soon spread, until the country around was all on fire.t Mr. James Wilson had been appointed by the Primitive Wesleyans to Clones, and on his return from Conference arranged with ministers of other denominations for open-air services. These were largely attended, ahd a very gracious influence rested on them. It was not, however, until Tuesday, August 30th, that the revival broke out. On that day, as one of two young men from Aughnacloy addressed a crowded assembly, a man cried aloud for mercy ; his cry was followed by that of several others, and soon many were deeply affected. The service was continued to an early hour on the following moming, when numbers returned to their houses in deep mental agony, and others exulted in a "joy unspeakable and full of glory." The meetings * Primitive Wesleyan Method'ist Magazine, 1860, pp 48-— 52. f. Ihid, I860, pp. 105-10. "CHAPTER XL. — 18-59. 521 were continued night after night, with increasing evidence of the Divine presence and power, until a marked change took place in the moral condition of the town, whole families of some of the worst characters having been converted, and houses that had been the scenes of revelry and vice having become vocal with the praises of God. On one occasion an open-air service was held, at which between four and five thousand persons were present, most of whom were happy in God. It was a scene never to be forgotten, as they marched into town singing the hymn beginning, " All hail the power of Jesu's name." * After some six or seven weeks of special prayer, in connection with both the Wesleyan and the Primitive Wesleyan Societies at CootehiU, on Sunday, August 28th, a united meeting was held in the open air, which was attended by about a thousand persons, and addressed by Messrs. James Oliver and Eobert Campbell, together with two converts from Ballymena. Towards the close of the service the Lord poured out His Spirit in abundant blessing. The congregation retired, singing hymns, and filled each of the chapels, where, until after midnight, were heard the cries of penitents and the songs of new-born babes in Christ. For weeks following such displays of saving power and grace were witnessed as had never before been seen in the neighbourhood. Meetings were held every night, all denominations shared in the benefits, and the slain of the Lord were many. Similar scenes also were vritnessed at Bailieborough and at several of the country appointments. " The September love feast at CootehiU," says the Eev. Thomas Foster, "was the most extraordinary I ever attended," and that at Bailieborough, conducted by the Eev. James Oliver, was hardly less remarkable. Messrs. Alexander Elliott and Alexander M'Cormack, on their appointment to Ballyjamesduff, began to pray and work for a revival, and secured the sympathy of the people committed to thefr care. For some time there was little apparent result, but in August, at a series of open-air services, the Lord answered by fire. At the first of these meetings a young woman fell from her seat to the groundj uttering a loud cry for mercy, and she was followed by about ten or twelve others. One lad cried out, " Come, Lord Jesus ! " after a short time said, " Oh, He is coming ! I see * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazi?ie, 1859, pp, 364-69. 522' HISTORY OF METHODISM. Him !" and then joyously exclaimed, " He is come ! He is come ! " The blessed work spread through the surrounding country, and the saved of the Lord, including several Eoman Catholics and some of the worst characters in the neighbourhood, were indeed many.* Concerning Cavan the Eev. Eichard Maxwell states that the revival influence affected the circuit very unequally, the conver sions in some neighbourhoods being quite numerous, but in others comparatively few. The chief instrumentality employed vvas that of. new converts from a distance, and the cases of physical prostration, except in one or two localities, were not numerous. At the December quarterly visitation of the classes there was found a net increase of one hundred and thirty-one members, with one hundred and eleven on trial. f Mr. Thomas Abraham of Maguiresbridge writes, " Our largest chapels cannot contain the crowds of anxious hearers who attend our ministry, so that we have occasionally to address them in the open air. The truth thus sent forth among thousands, accom panied by the Holy Spirit, has to a wide extent destroyed the face of the covering cast over the people and the veil that was spread over the hearts of the unregenerate, the result of which has been that since the Conference about one hundred and fifty have turned from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God." I The Eev. Francis Morrow of Brookeborough describes the showers of blessing which fell on his circuit, includ ing FivemUetown, Tempo, and Clogher, and leading to an addition of two hundred and thirty members. § On the Enniskillen cfrcuit the Wesleyans, the Primitive Wesleyans, and the Presbyterians united together in holding open- air services, which were attended by vast numbers, and much good was done. The work soon extended to the surrounding country. Lisnaskea, Inishmore, and Knockmanoul all shared in the bless ings of this gracious visitation. More than two hundred and fifty members were added to the Primitive Wesleyan Society alone. At Pettigo arrangements were made for a series of union meetings in the open air, conducted by the Wesleyans, the Primi tive Wesleyans, and the Presbyterians, at the close of which the * Primitive Wesleyan Methodist Magazine, 1860, pp, 53 — 55. f Irish Evangelist, 1860, p, 46. X Primitive Wesleyan Method'ist Magazine, I860, p. 47. § Irish Evangelist, 1860, p. 38. CHAPTER XL.— 1859. 523 members of the congregation retired to their respective places of worship for special prayer. Although the attendance at these was very large, amounting to about two thousand, yet at the two or three first meetings nothing remarkable occurred, until August 28th, when the Lord poured out His Spirit abundantly. From that time the work went on gloriously. New classes were formed by both Societies, old ones largely increased, and a noble band of devoted young men raised up to work as leaders.* Concerning Ballyshannon Mr. James Irwin writes that he never had gone to a circuit before which was in such a state of spiritual death, but he and his colleague, Mr. James Carson, entered heartily into the work, and in two or three months were cheered vrith abundant tokens of the Lord's blessing. There were crowded congregations, protracted meetings, classes increased from sis or seven members to twenty or thirty, and hundreds of souls converted to God. f Mr. John M'llroy states concerning the result of the work at Fintona, "I held the September quarterly meeting there; the house eould not contain the people, over one hundred being seated outside, and the Lord made bare His arm. The display of the Spirit's power in the awakening of sinners exceeded all that had ever been witnessed before by those present. The meeting continued untU a late hour at night, and thirty-eight persons professed to have been made happy in God." J From Omagh Mr. Joseph Payne writes, "In this district, during the last two months, a great work of the Lord has taken place, and is still progressing. A spirit of grace and supplication has been poured out, meetings are held every evening, and often the whole night is spent in prayer. Some Eomanists have got good. Such is the deep anxiety evinced that we cannot, in many instances, get the meetings closed until a late hour. We held our quarterly meeting at Sixmilecross in the new market-house, which was greatly crowded, and fourteen or sixteen were converted." § Amongst those won for Christ during this gracious work was * Irish Evangelist, 1860, p. 39, and Primitive Wesleyan Magazine, 1860, pp. 172-73. f Primitive Wesleyan Magazine, I860, p. 42. } lUd, p. 173. § Ibid, 1860, p. 110, 524 HISTORY OF METHODISM. WUUam Livingston, who subsequently entered the itinerancy. The Society in Omagh, however, felt deeply the want of a suitable place of worship, but this lack was supplied by the erection of a new chapel, at a cost of about £500. This building was opened by Mr. John White and Dr. Heather. The rerival extended even to Donegal, where the Eevs. John Hazelton, John Wilson, and Andrew Armstrong were now stationed; very large union meetings were held both in the Wesleyan chapel and in the open air, and thus the good work spread to Epis copaUan and Presbyterian congregations. The account of at least one of the conversions must not be omitted. Mr. Graham was chosen builder of the new chapel at Donegal, but died before the work was completed. His son James would then have been employed, but he was such an abandoned drunkard that Mr. Best had to take charge of the undertaking himself. One day Mr. Quarry said to this young man, " James, I have been praying for you." " There is no use," was the reply. " As long as you are out of hell," the servant of God added, " I vrill not cease to pray for you." These words made such a deep impression on the mind of the poor inebriate that he could not shake them off; and after some time he attended a Temperance lecture, delivered by Mr. Armstrong, and signed the pledge. On the following Sabbath he went to class-meeting, stated that he felt his weakness, and expressed an earnest desire for an interest in the prayers of those present. Soon he obtained a sense of sins forgiven, regained his position in society, occupied an important place in the Church, and having faithfully witnessed for Christ for nine or ten years, passed through death triumphant home. The secular press was largely occupied with copious details of this great revival; but the Eev. William Crook, jun., felt the need of a paper fully devoted to the cause of Evangelical religion, and in the strength of this conviction originated the Irish Evangelist, a monthly journal. It was a bold but characteristic venture, and the results justified his faith and courage. During the revival it attained a large cfrculation ; for nearly a quarter of a century it continued to serve the cause of Evangelical truth and civil liberty, and ouly ceased to exist when the publication of the Christian Advocate as a weekly journal rendered its further issue unnecessary. The present generation scarcely realize how much CHAPTER XL. — 1859. 525 they are indebted to those who aided and encouraged this hazard ous and spirited undertaking. Glancing now at the work of Irish Methodism during the forty years just considered, it presents a record of glorious success in the midst of discouragements and difficulties almost without parallel. We find it shining vrith increasing lustre as a light in a dark place, bearing witness to the truth amidst abounding error, quickening the people into spiritual life, and preventing many .districts of the country from being enveloped in the dense gloom of Eomish ignorance and superstition. The Ufe and vigour which characterized other Evangelical Churches were in no small degree traceable to its influence, and hundreds of their ministers received thefr first religious impressions from its ministry. The glorious Gospel of the grace of God was proclaimed not only in numerous places set apart for religious worship, but also in fairs and markets and in many a lowly farm-house, where there were but few assembled ; and seeds of Divine truth were thus scattered that brought forth an abundant harvest. Education also was given in the daily and Sunday schools to tens of thousands, who were thus prepared to search the Scriptures for themselves and to occupy important positions in society. The progress of Methodism was most marked. There was much useful legislation, systematizing the various departments of Christian work, and affording to the laity facilities for sharing in the administration of all financial business. In numbers the increase was truly marveUous. Although deprived by emigration of more than thirty-five thousand members, or about one hundred and forty thousand adherents, and in a country the population of which was reduced from upwards of eight milhons to less than six, the membership rose from thirty-four thousand six hundred in 1819 to about forty thousand in 18S9. Financial affairs showed a still more wonderful improvement. The Wesleyan Society alone, starting with a huge debt of £8,000, and an annual deficiency of £1,000, in what was practically the Susten tation Fund, not only paid off these habilities, and raised nearly £30,000 in response to two other special appeals, but increased its annual subscriptions to the Connexional Funds from £1,887 to £8,780, and fts aUowances to ministers one hundred per cent. The number of Wesleyan preachers in the work rose from one hundred to one hundred and 526 HISTORY OF METHODISM. thirty-seven, and of Primitive Wesleyans from forty to seventy. Not less cheering was the evidence of material progress, as about three hundred and fifty chapels were built, as well as a large number of school-houses and ministers' residences. But the chief result of the labours of Irish Methodism was to be seen in other lands. In fact, it enriched and blessed the world, for in almost every place where the Society had an existence there could be found those who were indebted to Irish Methodism for their conversion ; and no one who has not visited the British colonies and the United States, and seen it for himself, can form an idea of the vast extent to which Ireland has contributed to the numerical, financial, and moral strength of Methodism in those countries. Numerous Churches are to be found in which a large proportion of the congregations and nearly all the office-bearers are from this land ; while in the United States, as well as in Canada, there are more Methodist ministers of Irish extraction, and considerably more members, than there are in Ireland. Much, however, remains to be done. Perhaps there is no country in the world in which Popery holds such a firm grip of its votaries as in this land ; and certainly there is none where it is more intolerant in its spirit, more arrogant in its pretensions, and more bitter in its hostility to the truth. Methodism is as much needed in the kingdom as ever it was. Its glorious mission is far from accomplished, and doubtless it is destined to achieve even greater victories. Whatever may be the course of political events, or the results of the agitation that now disturbs and distracts the nation, it is certain to issue in the triumph of the Gospel. Ireland will yet be won for Christ, and Popery must fall like Dagon before the ark of the Lord. The time is coming, and we believe it is hastening, when from north to south and from east to west the glad tidings of salvation will be proclaimed, and all will acknowledge not only the " one God," but also " the one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." Then shall Erin, redeemed and disenthralled, cast off the incubus which has so long depressed her energies, rise to the grandeur of her destiny, and prove a blessing to untold millions. INDEX ABBEYLEIX. 62, 67, 123 Abraham, Rev. Thos. 295, 351, 522 AchUl. 483 Achonry. 329 Adare. 298 Addy, Edward. 100, 115, 175, 200, 301, 326, 400 Aghinlig. 303 Aghnahoo. 115, 263 AghnamuUen. 64 AhoghilL 506, 507 Aickin,. Dr. John, 132 Alcorn, Rev. Samuel. 10 Alder, Rev. Dr. 215, 247, 250, 336 Algeo, Captain. 221 AUey, Rev. G. 310, 432, 435 Alley, Mr. and Mrs. W. N. 284, 310, 376 AUworth, The Misses. 70 America. 13, 19, 32, 43, 71, 158, 163, 178, 184, 189, 209, 222, 240, 258, 275, 292, 324, 348, 376, 388, 398, 443, 463, 466, 462, 465, 475, 491, 497, 503, 506, 526 Anderson, Alexander. 69 Anderson, Henry. 133 Anderson, Hugh. 380 Anderson, Rev. John. 262 Annadale. 56, 419 Antrim, County of. 71, 156, 214 Antrim, Town of. 58, 65, 138, 156, 172, 231, 360, 367, 384, 393, 396, 423, 429, 460, 506 Appelbe, Rev. Dr. 83, 205, 297, 317, 411,424,438,441,465, 512 Archer, John. 189 Archer, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, 189 Ardara. 154, 164, 473, 484, 489 Ardbarren. 260, 263, 349 Ardglass. 114, 204 Ardmore. 125, 367 Ardress. 303 Ards. 9, 22 Arklow. 126, 322, 346, 364, 369, 377 Armagh, City of. 9, 12, 51, 110, 121, 139, 157, 179, 184, 189, 206, 221-3, 329, 360, 383, 460, 468, 518 Armagh, County of. 61, 214, 430 Armstrong, Rev. Andrew. 334, 461, 467, 489, 498, 624 Armstrong, Rev. Francis. 94, 235 Armstrong, Rev. G-ustavus. 159, 172, 392 ' ' Armstrong, James, 186 Armstrong, John, 8 Armstrong, Rev. John. 12, 27, 48, 63, 67, 78, 87, 110, 154, 188, 203, 285, 300, 312, 391, 612, 516 Armstrong, Joseph. 41 Armstrong, William. 48 Armstrong, Rev, William, sen, 248 Armstrong, Rev, William, jun. 460 Arran, Isle of, 306 Arthur, Rev, WiUiam, 207, 245, 248 432, 440, 456, 466, 458, 460, 462, 470, 474, 483, 508, 512 Arvagh, 37, 98, 476 Askakeagh, 126 Atherton, Rev. William. 378 Athlone. 11, 13, 55, 63, 66, 107, 132, 214, 219, 292, 407, 486, 497 Athy. 3, 71, 96, 178, 377, 412, 433 Atkin, Captain. 112 Atkins, Mrs, 244, 362 Atkins, Rev, James B, 362, 474 Atkins, John, 362 Atkins, Rev. John H. 126, 244, 248, 313 Attibrassil, 269 Aughaward, 48 Augher, 55, 64 Aughnacloy, 54, 63, 124, 231, 295, 321, 383, 384, 393, 424, 433, 520 Aughrim, 10, 162, 292 Australia, 115, 178, 376, 445 Averell, Rev. Adam, 1, 7, 61, 73, 78, 80, 89, 100, 106, 120, 121, 142, 159, 214, 230, 234, 235, 239, 242, 247, 268, 260, 277, 280, 296, 307, 308, 323, 324, 339, 379 BAGENALSTOWN. 430, 433 Bailey, Rev, Robert, 56, 175, 187 Bailieborough, 203, 521 528 INDEX. Baker, Rev. Thomas W. 387, 431, 439 Ballam, John. 319 Ballard, Rev. J. W. 342, 419 Ballard, Rev. T. 9, 183, 198-9, 341, 410, 477 Ballina. 207, 268, 324, 329, 419, 498 Ballinalee. 240, 407 BalUnamaUard. 90, 101, 167, 175, 334, 392, 402, 408, 409, 442, 465, 467. Ballinamore. 361 Ballinamuck. 239 Ballinasloe. 91, 92, 103, 268, 310, 357, 386, 399, 429, 431, 471 BalUnderry, Antrim. 129, 155, 187 BaUinkUlen. 433 BaUintra. 101,154,261,266 BaUybay. 149, 433 Ballyboley. 18 Ballycanew. 136, 152, 369, 377 BaUycassidy. 48 BaUycastle. 156, 387 Ballyclare. 18, 19, 124, 156, 307, 422, 433, 509 Ballyclogh. 289 BallyoonneU, 69, 170, 348, 369, 424 Ballycor. 19, 156 Ballydehob, 80 Ballyederlan. 154 BaUyfarnan. 319, 484 Ballygowan. 165, 360, 478 Ballyhaise. Ill Ballyhoman. 114 Ballyhuppahane. 123 Bally jamesdufE. 4, 69, 77, 97, 111, 167, 187, 295, 408, 476, 621 BaUykeel, Tyrone. 121 BaUylagan. 166, 360 Ballylough. 129 Ballymagemy. 143, 300 Ballymahon. 240 Ballymena. 71, 84, 86, 93, 423, 429, 431, 433, 461, 460, 464, 607 BaUymoney. 607 BaUymore. 497 Ballymote. 148, 283, 329, 476, 484 Ballymurray. 65, 106 Ballynacor. 616 BaUynacov. 64, 212, 341 BaUynahinch. 22, 114, 185 BaUvneen. 101, 118, 218 Ballynure. 154, 208, 371, 511 Ballyorgan. 112 Ballyreagh. 48, 66, 333, 334, 466 BaUysadare. 329, 342 Ballyshannon. 26, 48, 61, 69, 100, 154, Ballyskeagh. 188 170, 243, 248, 255, 261, 265, 286 308, 359, 392, 411, 482, 523 Ballywatticock. 114 Baltinglass. 126, 139, 412 Banagher. 74, 175 Banbridge. 88, 114, 130, 159, 171, 216, 241, 324, 378, 428, 468, 515 Bandon. 14-6, 20, 36, 40-1, 51, 68, 65, 67, 69, 70, 82, 83, 118, 122, 125, 176, 182, 197-8, 205, 212-3, 217, 233, 246, 260, 266, 267, 276, 282, 286, 288, 306, 306, 325, 362, 369, 370, 398, 409, 416, 440, 465. Bandon, Lord. 14, 52 Bangor. 12, 17, 28, 114, 168, 238 Banks, Rev. E M. 178,205,207,274, 299, 385, 498 Banks, Mr. and Mrs. H. 177, 412 Banks, Rev. R. 29, 63, 71, 178, 412, 460 Bannfoot. 516 Bantry. 101, 374 Barber, Thomas. 136 Barber, Rev. Thomas. 95 Barker, Rev. Jonathan. 94 Barker, WilUam, 96, 412 Barlow, WiUiam. 321 Barnes, Rev. George. 478 Barry, Rev. John. 36 Barry, Mr. and Mrs. WiUiam. 70 Baskin, WiUiam H. 13 Bass, Rev. James C. 299, 368 Bates, Rev, John. 497 Bayly, Rev. B. 137, 172, 174, 208 Beale, Rev, H, M. 280, 360, 474 Beamish, Miss, 36, 82 Beamish, Mrs. Henry. 283 Beamish, Rev. T. 14, 70, 204, 248 Beattie, James H. 321, 448 Beatty, Mr, 165 Beatty, Mrs, 208 Beatty, Alexander, 208 Beatty, Robert. 208, 371 Beatty, WiUiam. 263, 334, 359 Beauchamp, Rev. Robert. 68, 84 Beaumont, Rev. Dr. 220 Beaumont, George. 8 Bedford, Rev. John. 465 Beecham, Rev, Dr. 172, 204, 235, 278, 351, 418, 440 Belcher, Dr. 14 Belfast. 6-7, 19, 57, 64, 65, 69, 81, 88, 92, 96, 107-9, 113, 122, 126, 131-2, 133, 134-5, 143, 150, 156, 159, 170, 171, 172, 186, 205, 208, 209, 213, 214, 216, 236, 238, 245, 252-4, 255, 262, 264, 270-2, 275, 277-9, 286, INDEX. 529 292-4, 304, 306, 307, 308, 313,320-1, 336, 337, 340, 344-5, 351, 356, 358, 360, 366, 368, 371, 377-8, 380, 393, 402, 410, 411, 418-9, 430, 432, 433, 437, 448, 458, 460, 467, 469, 470, 474, 477, 487, 490, 492, 497, 503, 512, 514 BeU, Rev. Dr. 146 BeU, Rev. James. 22, 94, 172, 360 BeU, Rev. Robert. 266, 397, 439, 483 BeUaghy. 72, 93, 99, 117, 164, 447 BeUeek. 265, 449 BelmuUet. 431, 439 Belturbet. 100, 110, 132, 167, 462, 464 Bengour. 16, 198, 218 Bennett, Rev. J. B. 125, 205, 245, 321 Bennett, Thomas, sen, 70, 267 Bennett, Thomas, 125, 429, 462 Bennett, Rev, T, G, 198 Bennett, WilUam, 282, 283 Benson, Rev. Joseph. 9 Benson, Miss. 601 Beragh. 464 Berehaven Mines. 386, 429, 430, 440 Bermuda. 10 Bernard, Bishop. 245 Best, Rev. E. 387, 401, 451, 483, 489, 602, 524 Beverley. 80 Bickerdike, Rev. WUUam. 212, 264 Biggs, Miss. 14 BiUy. 93, 156 Black, Rev. Mr. 404 Black, Rev. James. 266 Black, Rev. Robert. 206, 235 Black, WiUiam, 211 Blackrock, 487 Blackslee. 23, 339 Blackwatertown. 520 Blake, Thomas. 350 Blake, Rev. WiUiam A. 467 Bloomfield, John 0. 449 Bluestone. 78, 516 Bohevny. 48 Bolger, James. 179 Bolton, Edward H. 40 Bonlea. 430 BonsaU, John 0. 213, 366 Borris. 238 Borrisokane, 30, 103, 257, 376 Bowers, Rev, John, 307, 612 Bowes, Edward. 379 Bowman, John A. 478 Boyce, Thomas, 94, 139, 200 Boyd, Mr, and Mrs, James. 109-10 Boyd, John, 40 Boyd, Rev. J. H. 278 VOL. III. Boyd, Rev. Robert. 478 Boyle. 63, 71, 105, 239, 240, 266, 435, 453, 484 Boyle, Rev, Robert, 281 Boyle, Thomas. 457 Boyle, WUUam. 337 Bray. 274, 363 Bredin, Rev. John. 10 Bride, James. 218 Brierly, Thomas. 213 Bright, Anne. 283 Bristow, Rev. Mr. 71 Brooke, Rev, R, S, 140 Brookeborough. 48, 55, 89, 122, 160 167, 257, 294, 392, 467, 522 Broomhedge. 187, 188, 421 Broughmore. 129 Brown, Rev. George. 42 Brown, James G. 121, 486 Brown, Rev. Thomas. 351 Brown, WilUam, 465 Brown, Rev, WiUiam, 278, 516 Browne, WUUam, 64, 88, 105, 114, 169, 180, 209, 418 Bruce, Rev, Robert, 512 Bryan, Mrs, 125 Bryan, Thomas, 244, 376 Bundoran, 100, 164 Bunting, Rev. Dr. 22, 2 453, 95, 107-9, 132, 165, 186, 187, 190,226, 247, 248, 250, 336, 359, 420, 497 Burns, WilUam. 324, 348 Burnside, Rev. Wm. 149, 341, 430 Burrows, Rev. Geo. 6, 57, 63, 84, 123, 219 Burrows, Rev. Michael. 262, 460 BushmiUs. 99, 157, 304 Butler, Rev. Dr. 112, 274, 361 Butler, Mr. and Mrs. P. 136-7 Butterworth, Joseph. 1, 37 Buttle, John. 64, 89, 186, 242, 322, 400 Byrne, Rev. Claudius. 5, 68, 388 Byrne, John. 50, 149 CAHER, 229 Cahirciveen, 299 CaUow, 240 Cambridge, Alice, 78 Camolin. 136, 369, 377 CampbeU, Alex. 337, 408, 414, 481 Campbell, Andrew. 72 CampbeU, Rev. Archibald. 72, 388 CampbeU, Rev. John. 419 Campbell, Robert. 234, 521 CampbeU, WiUiam. 6, 294 CampbeU, Rev. W. G. 38, 160, 167, 34 530 INDEX. 273, 289, 310, 401, 409, 419, 422, 429, 431, 432, 433, 439, 455, 461, 463, 473, 476, 482, 484, 494, 496, 505 Canada. 137, 138, 282, 313, 361, 462, 526 Canning, John. 457, 508 Cappagh. 139 Cappavicar. 258 Carey, Rev. James. 269, 387, 430 Carey, Rev. John. 151, 163, 269, 360, 612 Carlisle, George. 129 CarUsle, James. 294, 371, 403 CarUsle, Rev. John. 172, 349 Carlisle, Rev. Thomas. 421 Carlow, County of. 50 Carlow, Town of. 23, 75, 90, 96, 177, 238, 290, 412, 460 Carnahinny. 48, 55 Carndonagh. 307 Carnegie, James. 183 Carnew. 126, 136, 152 Camkenny. 79 Carnlea. 72 Carnlough, 164 Carr, Rev. G, W. 134 Carrickboy. 240 Carrickfergus, 122, 264, 433, 477 Carrickglass. 424 Carrickmaclim. 256 Carrickmacross. 86, 184, 234, 256, 370 Carricknahorna. 164, 261 Carrick-on-Shannon. 21, 56, 71, 75, 239, 240, 476 Carrick-on-Suir, 381 Carrigallen, 167 Carson, Rev. James. 514, 623 Carson, Rev. John. 464 Carson, Rev. Robert. 451 Carson, William and James. 21 Carter, Rev. James. 236, 360 Caruth, Mrs. 207 Caruth, John, 208,321,448,477 Cashel, Derry, 156 Cashel, Tipperary. 23. Castlebar. 11, 91, 133, 136, 206, 375 Castleblayney. 67, 230, 266, 269, 278, 307, 336, 411, 427 Castlecaulfield, 303, 3-23 Castlecomer. 229, 377, 412 Castledawson. 72, 86, 93, 117, 270 Castlederg. 46, 79, 140, 263, 349, 474 Castleisland. 364 Castlepoles. 160 CastlepoUard. 106 Castlereagh, 83, 105, 219, 304, 311, 436, 476 Castletown, 520 Cathcart, John, 195 Cather, Rev, Dr. 280-1, 282, 307, 312, 344, 358, 437, 478, 491, 603 Cather, Rev. WiUiam. 133, 257, 263, 280-1, 463, 498 Caughey, Rev. James. 313-19, 325 Cavan, County of. 51, 77, 433, 435 Cavan, Town of. 47, 97, 110, 120, 170, 180, 203, 234, 361, 360, 378, 400, 4--'2, 434,484, 494, 514, 522 Celbridge. 148, 273, 465 Chambers, George. 387 Chapman, George. 435 Charlemont. 23, 41, 69, 105, 143, 170, 176, 186, 215, 302, 354, 367, 383, 473 China. 405 Christie, Rev. WUliam. 387 ChurchhiU, Fermanagh. 484 Clara, 280 Clarke, Rev. Dr. 21, 53, 57, 60, 81, 111, 146, 156, 171, 184, 447 Clarke, Rev. John. 178 Clear, Mrs. 198 Clear, Thomas. 125 Clements, Rev. Castor. 248 CUfden, 445, 459, 483 Cloghan. 164 Clogher. 24, 48, 622 Clohamon. 364 ClonakUty. 101, 176, 428 Cloncore. 490 Cloneurry, Lord. 262 ClonegaU. 136, 377 Clones. 61, 69, 72, 107, 111, 148, 167, 170, IKl, 266, 333, 338,340, 348, 400, 463, 464, 514, 620 Clonmain. 303 Clonmel. 23, 65, 94, 146, 220, 329, 369, .384, 444 Clontibret. 73 Cloonbeg. 434 Clough. 162 Cloughjordan, 66, 103, 104, 376, 440 Clowry, Priest, 90 Cobain, Rev, Edward. 120, 203, 487 Coldstream, Dr. 62 Coleraine, 68, 84-6, 146, 166, 171, 266, 295, 306, 456, 464, 478, 490, 507 College HaU, 619 CoUier, Rev, J, 212, 329, 337, 340, 375 ColUer, Rev, R. 341, 411, 413, 510. INDEX. 531 CoUiery. 412 Collon. 231 CoUooney. 329, 476, 484, 499 Colvan, Dr. 222-3 Comber. 12, 22. 49 ConUn, Rev. William. 348, 486, 515 Connaught. 3, 34, 36, 76, 425, 432 433, 484 ConneU, Arthur H. 337, 400, 406 Connemara, 432, 434, 483 ConnoUy, F. and James, 361 Connolly, Robert. 234 Connor. 505, 606, 610 Cooke, Rev, Dr, H. 378, 471 Cooke, Rev. Thomas. 392, 414, 440. Cooke, Rev, Dr. WiUiam. 113, 237 262, 264, 306 Cookstown, 61, 57, 100, 114, 265, 296 39.3,473 Coolafancy. 126, 346 Coolaney. 329 CoolbaUy. 123 Coolbaun. 96 Cooper, Joshua. 476, 499 CootehUl. 40, 73, 86, 111, 266, 303, 370, 400, 433, 463, 464, 521 Copeland, Henry. 48 Copeland, Hugh. 48, 100 Copeland, Rev. WiUiam. 69 Corcrain. 518 Cork, City of. 40, 51, 54, 58, 69, 80, 81, 106, 110, 113, 116, 122, 130, 13-2, 153,170, 173, 183, 186, 212-3, 247, 276, 27S, 286, 298, 305, 306, 307, 309, 317-9, 337, 347, 351, .362-3, 356, 369, 362, 368, 369, 370, 373, 398, 404, 440, 466, 487, 491 Cork, County of. 42, 102 CorUsbrattan. Ill, 160, 167, 337, 361, 392, 414, 464, 476 ComakiU. 131 CornwaU, Henry. 14, 41 , 83, 122, 176, 217, 282, 409, 416 Cornwall, Rev. WUliam. 21, 83 Corrigan, Dr. 416 Cosbystown. 169, 407. Cotton, Mrs. 83, 476 Cowdy, Mrs. 299 Cowdy, Anthony. 498 Cowdy, Rev, Samuel (1st). 8, 187 Cowdy, Rev. Samuel (2nd). 490 Cox, Richard. 360 Craig, James. 69 Craig John, Belfast. 133 Craig, John, Doagh. 360-1 Craig, WUUam. 132, 143, 230, 302, 486 Crampton, Judge. 201, 206, 267, 296 320,366 > , , , Crampton, Mrs. 202, 296 Cranston, Rev. Robert. 216, 236 Crawford, Mark, 319, 476 Crawford, Mrs, 436 Creevy, Rev, George C, 209 Creevy, James. 209, 436 Croan, Robert. 300 Crofts, Joseph. 68 Croggon, Rev, W, 0, 237, 244, 284, 320, 341, 345, 366, 411 Croker, Rev. 0. 166 Cromie, John. 73, 146, 456 Crook, Mr. 275. Crook, Rev, Dr, R, 432, 467, 497 Crook, Rev, William, 133, 153, 257, 274, 280, 324, 460, Crook, Rev, Dr. WiUiam. 275, 280, 335, 366, 387, 391, 491, 507, 624 Crookshank, Alexander. 313 Crossdoney. 400 CrosshiU. 209 Crossmaglen, 269 Crowther, Rev, Jonathan. 9 Crozier, Rev, Robert. 487 Crumlin, 209, 367 Cubitt, Rev. George. 284 Cunniamstown. 126 Cunningham, Guy, 265, 308 Curraghamulkin. 116 Curraun. 415 Currie, Rev, William, 467 Currin, 48, 260. Curry, WiUiam, 331 Curryglass, 166 Cusworth, Rev. Joseph. 336 DALKEY, 150 Damery, George, 218 Darby, Rev, WUUam A. 206, 233, 270, 304, 372, 388 Daunt, Francis, 118 Daridson, Moses, 209 Davies, Rev. Isaac. 497 Dawson, Abraham, 265, 346, 480, 414 Dawson, John, 326, 465 Dawson, John W, 465. Dawson, Rev. R. J. 172, 364 Dawson, WiUiam, Barnbow. 290-2 Dawson, WiUiam, Coi-k. 213 Deaker, WUliam. 20, 471 De Courcy, Rev. E. 490 Deery, Rev. George. 351, 388 Deery, Rev, Heury, 70, 79, 187, 233, 248, 266, 324, 432 532 INDEX. Derry, Richard and WilUam. 7 Derryadd. 303, 367 Derryaghy. 350 DerryaU. 604, 518 Derryanvil, 181, 358, 504, 518 Derrybrughas, 300 Derrygonnelly, 180, 258, 339, 407, 494 Derryhale. 360, 504 Derrylee, 518 Derrynasling, 30 Derryroosk, 64 DerryscoUop, 121, 303, 520 Devers, Rev. R, A, 307 Dickey, Nathaniel, 129 Digby, WilUam K, 11 Dinnen, Rev, John, 81, 295 Dixon, Eev, Dr. 262, 276, 323 Doagh, 360-1, 403, 610 Dobbin, Abraham L. 23 Dobbs, Robert, 62 D'Olier, Dr, 308 Donaghadee. 9, 28, 171, 175, 236, 433, 516 Donald, Rev. Dr. 176, 266, 342, 499 Donald, Rev, James, 175, 248, 387, 427, 508, 509 Donald-son, Rev, Mr. 129 Donegal, County of. 139, 294, 306, 433 489 Donegal, Town of. 120, 148, 154, 216, 265, 387, 411, 422, 431, 459, 473, 482, 483, 484, 487, 497, 602, 524 Donnelly, Rev. James. 370, 440, 509. DooUttle, Rev, T, W. 159, 172, 256, 261, 283, 324 Doonan, Ben, and Patrick. 361 Doonan, Rev, WiUiam C. 362, 392, 414, 452 Doorian. 154, 164 Douglas, Rev. WiUiam. 203, 257, 463 Douglass, Rev, Francis, 452 Dow, Lorenzo. 109 Dowling, Rev. Blakely. 149 Down. 22, 49, 130, 214 Downey, John. 173 Downing, Rev. S. 62, 67, 207, 497 Downpatrick, 56, 69, 88, 114, 126, 175, 266, 383, 413, 422, 436 Doyle, Bishop. 90 Drew, Rev, Dr, 438 Drimoleague, 374 Drogheda, 131, 137, 173, 216-7, 230,. 256, 292, 377, 449 Dromara, 226, 231, 266 Dromore, Down, 7-8, 114, 142, 171, 188, 201, 241, 277, 306, 307, 460, 515 Drumbad More. 48 Drumcar. 1 38 Drumclamph. 46, 79, 84, 423 Drumdufe. 339 Drumkeeran. 261 Drumkilroosk. Ill Drummee. 48 Drumshanbo. 55, 151, 319, 351, 43 Drumsna. 5, 239 DubUn. 6, 11, 13, 20, 22, 26, 27, 37, 38, 40, 44, 58, 60, 66, 66, 69, 81, 83, 89, 94, 96, 107, 111, 121, 122, 123, 131, 132, 146, 148-50, 159, 160, 170, 171, 172, 173, 178, 183, 184, 190-6, 201, 202, 204, 209, 213, 216, 226, 227, 233, 234-6, 243, 247, 251, 265-7, 272, 274, 275, 277, 285, 249-7, 307, 308, 314-6, 320, 323-5, 331, 335-6, 344-5, 351, 356, 359, 366, 366, 368, 369, 378, 379, 387, 388, 396, 399, 400, 410, 411, 416, 418, 423, 426, 431-2, 436, 442, 461, 453, 455, 460, 462, 466, 471, 474, 496, 514 Dugdale, Bennett, 24, 89 Duncan, Alexander, 412 Duncan, Rev, James, 178, 294, 366, 412 Duncannon, 233 Dundalk. 97, 138, 144, 225, 230, 256, 269, 377, .379, 430, 614 Dundrum, 22 Dungannon. 69, 285, 303, 364, 367, 399, 400, 452, 474 Dungorman. 302, 367, 381 ? Dunkineely. 120, 154, 473, 484, 489, 503 Dunlavin. 73 Dunleary. 5 Dunlop, Rev. Samuel. 497 Dunmanway. 19, 101, 102, 118, 126, 244, 362, 376 Dunmore. 59, 87, 158, 163 Dunscombe, Rev, N, E, 288 Durrow, 123 Dwyer, Rev. John. 387, 489 EARLS, John. 48 Easky. 75 Eden, 111 Edenaveagh, 105 Edenderry, Armagh, 518 Edenderry, King's Co. 67 Edgar, Rev. Dr. 134-5, 202, 438, 471 Edgerton, Rev, Joseph, 204 INDEX. 533 Edgeworthstown, 240 Edwards, Rev, James, 334, 432, 483 Edwards, Robert. 14 Edwards, Rev. Thomas. 93 Elliott, Rev. Alexander. 348, 453, 521 Elliott, Benjamin. 165 Elliott, Rev. Dr. Charles. 476 EUiott, Rev. Frederick. 163,268, 292, 328, 335, 337, 386, 455, EUiott, Rev, James. 348, 462, 494, 604 Elliott, James and Frederick. 269 Elliott, Rev. James, Canada. 138 EUiott, John. 19, 155 Elmes, Rev. Thomas. 125 Elphin, 65 Emerson, George, 69 Emory, Rev, John, 15 Emyvale, 232, 258 EngUshtown. 188 Ennis. 440 Enniscorthy. 28, 53, 113, 200, 233, 369, 377 Enniskeen, Cavan. 10 EnniskiUen. 41, 48, 55, 64, 88, 100, 101, 121, 161, 167, 169, 180, 243, 260, 265, 332, 350, 391, 392, 397, 408, 482, 487, 497, 522 EnniskiUen, Lord. 463 Entwisle, Rov. Joseph. 22, 94, 95, 128 Erris. 386, 431, 439 Evans, Rev, Dr, 512, 519 Everett, Rev, James. 146 Eyrecourt. 99 FAIRCLOTH, Mr. and Mrs. G. 412 Farmer, Thomas. 461, 462 Farney. 260 Farnham, Lord. 97, 120, 400 Farranmareen . 218 Farrar, Rev. John. 461, 460, 474, 497 FarreU, Isaac. 371, 456 FarreU, Rev. John. 216, 361 Farrington, Mr. and Mrs. E, 163 Faugher. 277 Fawcett, Isaac. 281 Fayle, Benjamin W. 281 Fayle, WiUiam K. 281 Feagh. 400 Feckman, WiUiam. 70, 102-4, 112, 166 197 357 Feely, Rev, John, 3, 24, 29, 36-8, 49- 51, 64-6, 73, 74, 87, 120, 146, 386, 431, 459, 473, 605 Ferbane. 219 Ferguson, Rev. Samuel. 368 Ferguson, Rev, WilUam, 112, 133, 191, 233, 21)7, ,320, 344, 428, 460 Fermanagh, 48, 144, 4.33 Fermoy, 52, 125, l;',3, 440 Ffrench, Rev, Patrick, 108, 411 Field, James, 36, 40, 54, 130, 174, 197, 270, 298-9, 318, 370, 404 Finlay, Rev. WiUiam, 203, 262, 460 Fintona. 64, 72, 115, 121, 359, 481, 523 Fitzgerald, Francis. 181 FivemUetown. 90, 121, 126, 209, 392, 400, 485, 522 Flaherty, WiUiam. 368, 486 Fleming, WilUam. 94, 209 Florence Court. 88 Foote, Rev. WilUam. 56, 118, 412 Ford, Adam, 258, 339 Foster, Baron. 267 Foster, Rev, John, 79, 172 Foster, Rev. John. 187, 248, 428 Foster, Rev, Thomas, 170, 337, 621 Foulkes, Mrs, D, 136 Fowler, Rev. Joseph. 399 Foxford. 258 France. 245 Frazer, Edward. 247, 250 Frazer, Robert. 8 Freel, Rev. Thomas, 467 FrizzeU, Mrs. 381 FuUerton, Mr. and Mrs, 1 89 FuUerton, Rev, Alexander. 189, 467, 511 FuUerton, Rev. James. 189 FuUerton, Thomas. 189 Funston, John, 255 GALBRAITH, Samuel. 84 '' Galway, County of. 219, 288, 435 Galway, Town of. 21, 63, 73, 87, 175, 284, 292, 307, 310, 356, 376, 386, 423, 429, 431, 439 Garrett, Rev, Philip, 146 Garvagh. 204, 213 Gawn, Mrs, 18 Geale, Rev, Robert, 512 Geddes, Rev. H, 88, 172, 386, 439, 444, 459, 466, 483 George IV. 26 Gibraltar. 52 Gibson, Rev, Wm. 307, 336 Gilbert, Rev. Johu, 294 GUcriest, Rev, Johu, 411 Gilcriest, Rev. Wm, 66, 411 Giles, Rev. Henry J. 163, 205, 459 Gilford. 468 GUlman, Rev. Jas. B, 59, 93, 108, 534 INDEX. 110, 124, 234, 244, 295, 298, 306, 340, 344, 352, 356, 477 Glass, John. 204 Gledstown. 326 Glenadush. 303 Glenavy. 142, 231, 242, 367, 383, 393, 400 Glenleary. 55 Glenloughaun. 163 Glenosheen. 112 GUnsk. 56 Goodlatte, D. R. 225 Gordon, Thomas. 457 Gorey. 16, 28, 29, 35, 49, 53, 136, 364, 369 Gorman, Rev. Wm. 4, 440 Gorran. 156 Gortnagrough. 70 Gosford, Lord. 224 Graham, Eev. Alexander, 467 Graham, Andrew. 602 Grahauj, Rev. C. (Prim,). 280, 302, 347 Graham, Rev. Charles (Wes.). 3, 16, 28, 35, 49, 53, 56, 63, 66 Graham, James. 524 Graham, Rev. John. 324, 347, 380, 393 Graham, Mr. and Mrs. Robert. 334, 401 Graham, Eev. Wm. 369 Graham, Eev. W. H. 324 Grainger, John. 333 Granard, 92 Grant, Rev, Charles L, 334, 368 Grant, Rev, George, 153, 216, 252, 263, 272, 294, 474 Green, Rev, John E, 464 Greer, Alexander. 27 Greer, Rev. John. 94, 309, 318, 366, 390, 419, 451 Gregg, William. 242 Grey Abbey. 9 Griffin, Rev. Dr. 247, 286, 381, 418, 426, 449, 453 Grindrod, Rev. Edmund, 266 Grogey, 392 Guard, Rev, Edward. 474 Guard, Rev, Thomas. 432 Guard, Rev. Wesley. 494 Guard, Rev, Wm. 3, 24, 387, 411, 474, 495 Guest, Thomas R. 80, 247 Guinness, Rev. W, S. 139 Gunne, WUliam, 324, 379 Gunning, Charles, 281 Gurteen. 96, 123, 177, 366 Guthei-idge, Mr. 48 HACKETSTOWN. 69, f6, 177, 346, 377, 412 Hackett, John B. 206 Hadden, Rev. John. 153, 278, 335, 336 Haire, John. 59 Halftown. 188 HaUiday, Rev. Armstrong. 205, 266 Halliday, John. 48 Hamilton, Rev. A., sen. 81, 244, 278 Hamilton, Rev. A., jun. 24, 42, 68, 94, 131, 194, 266, 378 Hamilton, Rev. George. 265, 515 Hamilton, Rev. John. 81 Hamilton, Rev. R. (1st). 262 Hamilton, Rev. R. (2nd). 235, 236, 285, 467 Hamilton, Alderman WilUam. 277 Hamilton, Rev. WiUiam (Prim.), 107 HamUton, Rev. WUUam (Wes.). 24, 161, 2,56, 351 Hamilton's Bawn. 27, 63 Hanna, Rev. Dr. Hugh. . 492 Hanna, Rev, Dr. WiUiam. 109 Hannah, Rev. Dr. John. 336, 411, 418, 432, 440, 487 Hansbrow, Rev. George, 21, 54 Hargraves, John. 380 Harman, Rev. Joshua. 474 Harpur, Eev. Edward. 387 Harpur, Rev. Samuel. 156, 204 Harrington, Rev, John. 36, 94, 512 Harris, George. 67, 213, 398 Harris, Mrs. John. 125 Harte, Rev. Edward. 282, 417, 497 Harte, John H. and WUUam H. 417 Harvey, James. 172 Haslam, Rev. Mr. 170, 211 Haughton, Mrs, 131 Haughton, Richard. 5 Haughton, WilUam. 131, 193, 196 Hay, Rev. John. 258, 281, 294 Hayes, Charles. 496 Hazelton, Rev. John, 360, 463, 624 Hazleton, Rev. Edward. 48, 49, 168, 460 Hazleton, Eev. Eobert. 411 Heald, James. 69 Heather, Dr. 41, 47, 105, 186, 230, 247, 286, 294, 303, 308, 323, 325, 337, 366, 383, 415, 417, 433, 442, 453 474 481 624 Heatley' Ee-v. John. 88, 215, 349, 438, 520 Henderson, Eev. A. M. 307, 362, 369 376-8, 380, 404. Henderson, Rev. D. 69, 139, 408 INDEX. 535 Heney, Heniy. 21, 68, 192 Heney, WiUiam. 21 Hennessey, J. Pope. 116 Henning, Rev. John. 324, 494 Henry, Rev. James. 94, 386, 434, 445 Henshaw, Mr. 471 Herbert, Mrs. 56 Herbert, James. 94, 239, 514 Herbert, Pierce. 247 Herbert, WUUam, sen. 101, 126, 232 Herbert, William, jun, 229, 359, 462 Hetherington, Eev, J. P. 107 Hetherington, Thomas. 67 Hewitt, Rev. Robert. 160, 266, 310-2, 461, 465, 473, 486, 490, 498, 518 Hickey, Rev. Thomas. 216, 376, 431 Higgins, Rev. John. 324 Higgins, Joseph. 23, 444 HUl, Mr. 226 HiU, Rev. John. 236, 460 HiUhaU. 176 Hillsborough. 114 Hincks, Rev. Thomas. 135 Hobart, Rev, N. 59, 414 Hoey, Rev. WilUam (1st). 160 Hoey, Rev. WiUiam (2nd). 294 Holbrook, Mr. 195 Holbrook, Graves. 345 Holmes, Rev, John. 11, 24, 26, 38, 84, 179, 206, 207, 497 Holywood. 271, 286, 287, 304, 477 Hoole, Rev, Dr, 163, 184, 201, 266 Hopkins, WUUam. 136 Hornabrook, John. 356 Home, Rev. James. 183 Hosford, Mrs. Ben. 15 Hosford, John. 218 Howe, George, 82 Howe, Eev. John. 278, 297 Hughes, Mrs. 54, 113, 267 Hughes, Eev. James. 64, 149, 195, 366 Hughes, Rev. John. 216, 430, 468 HuU. 80 HuU, Rev. T. T. N. 28, 94, 96, 112, 119, 166, 183, 190, 191, 193, 196, 245, 461, 483 Hunter, Mrs. 198 Hunter, Mrs. 282 Hunter, Mrs. 361 Hunter, Andrew. 361 Hunter, James. 361, 403 Hunter, John, Ballyreagh, 48 Hunter, John, Bandon. 282 Hunter, Samuel. 246, 294 Hunter, Thomas. 282, 283 Hunter, WiUiam. 282 Hurst, John. 121 Hurst, Thomas. 334, 418 Huston, Rev. R, 91, 133, 135, 151 -3, 177, 191, 193, 196, 269, 279, 288, 320, 327, 369, 376, 391, 397, 426, 518 Hutchinson, Rev, James, 368, 371, Hyde Park, 123,207,511 INCH, 140 India, 248, 275, 467 Indies, West. 10, 36, 108, 183, 208, 247,250 Inishannon. 16 Inishmore. 48, 522 Inishowen. 486 Inistioge. 113, 430 Irons, William. 51, 121 Irvine, Captain. 6 Irvine, Rev, John C, 411 Irvinestown, 6, 90, 167, 203, 209, 243, 280, 294, 337, 340, 368, 392, 401, 408-9, 422, 429, 442,453, 456, 477, 480, 482, 484 Irwin, George H, 47, 229, 353, 379, 389, 418 Irwin, Rev. James (Prim.), 169, 400, 523 Irwin, Rev. James (Wes.). 81, 133 Irwin, Stuart. 283 Island Magee. 124 JACKSON, Judge. 251, 306, 336 Jackson, Richard. 73 Jackson, Rev, Samuel, 387 Jackson, Rev, T. 275, 278, 294, 403, 411 Jackson, William. 500 James, Rev. John. 121, 149, 150, 159, 166, 186 James, Rev. Dr. J. H. 448 Jamison, George. 8 Jebb, Rev. John. 474 Jersey, Rev. P, N. 171 Jervois, Rev. Joseph. 14 Jessop, Rev. E. 122, 125, 221, 280, 388 Johnson, Alexander. 367, 423, 498 Johnson, James, 367 Johnson, Eev, Robert. 260, 399 Johnson, Rev, R, Crawford. 498 Johnson, WiUiam. 396 Johnston, Andrew. 48 Johnston, Andrew. 280, 281 Johnston, Rev, Edward (1st). 612 Johnston, Rev. Edward (2nd). 360 Johnston, Rev, Ir-vine. 474 536 INDEX. Johnston, James, Currin. 48 Johnston, Rev. James. 83, 93, 324 Johnston, John, Lurgan. 13, 78, 100 Johnston, Rev. John. 263, 349, 368 Johnston, Rev, John K. 324, 344 Johnston, John M. 142 Johnston, Rev, Joseph. 368, 386 Johnston, Noble. 48 Johnston, Philip. 142, 246 Johnston, Rev Robert. 260, 418 Johnston, Rev. Samuel. 292, 378, 450, 477, 482, 498, 512 Johnstown, 430 Jones, Mrs, 136 Jones, Arthur, 297 Jones, Rev, John W, 470 Jones, Peter. 260, 266-7 Jones, Rev. Robert G. 294, 470, 477, 513 Jones, Rev. S. 160, 179, 216 Jones, Rev. Thomas A. 337, 363 Jones, WilUam Saul. 177-8 Jordan, Rev. James. 24 KANE, James. 123 Kane, Robert. 69, 481 Kavanagh, Thomas. 238 Kearns, Mr. 185 KeeUng, Eev. Isaac. 474, 487 Keenagh. 161, 240, 406, 407, 414 Keene, Martin. 106 Keevan, George. 72 Kehoe, Edward. 152 KeUs, Antrim. 207 KeUs, Kerry. 299 KeUs, Meath. 384 KeUy, J. 214 Kenmare. 167, 172, 203, 430 Kent, WiUiam. 40, 96 Ker, Eev. Dr. John. 463, 480 Ker, Eev. Robert. 514 Kerr, Eev. John. 149 Kerr, Eev. Robert. 308, 384, 393, 462, 486 Kerr, Rev. Thomas. 21, 94, 368 Kerry. 42, 103, 331, 364, 392, 424, 429, 435 Keys, Rev. James. 368 Kidd, Rev, WiUiam, 7, 164, 368 KifEagh, 408 Kilbeggan. 55, 219 Kilchreest. 76 Kildare. 61 Kilfinnane. 112 Kilkee. 439, 444, 459 Kilkenny, City of. 75, 229, 238, 260, 288-9, 320, 385, 423, 430, 433, 459 Kilkenny, County of. 50 KiUala. 268, 432, 450, 498 KiUaloe. 21, 54, 73, 386, 431, 440, 450 KiUarney. 161, 189 KiUashandra, 51, 71, 98, 111, 160, 167, 262, 361, 392, 411, 414, 463 KiUashee. 378 KiUorgUn. 163, 429 Killylea. 519 Killyleagh. 268 KiUyman. 303, 382, 520 KiUymendon, 90 KUmeage, 301 Kilmore, 63 Kihea. 270 Kilronane. 118 Kilrush, Clare. 4, 73, 75, 266, 268, 429, 439 444. Kilrush,' Cork. 246, 370 KUskeery. 242 KUwarlin. 129 Kingsborough, Rev. R, 266 King's County, 51, 219 Kingscourt, 98, 131, 137 Kingston, Mrs, 260 Kingston, William, 14 Kingstown, 6, 232, 463, 466 Kinsale 176, 295, 347, 386, 388, 440 Kirkpatrick, Rev. George. 474 KirUsh. 349 Kitson, Messrs. 258 Knappagh. 2, 258 Knockatomcoyle. 96, 412 Knockmanoul, 101, 332, 392, 467, 522 Knox, Rev. Thomas, 478 Kyle, Matthew. 255 Kyle, Rev. Samuel. 52, 451 LACK. 455 Laird, John. 319, 476 Lamb, James. 42, 227 Lanktree, Rev. M,, sen. 9, 16, 22, 49, 71, 82, 86, 93, 99, 158, 411 Lanktree, Rev. M., jun. 36, 42, 70, 82, 96, 99, 187 Lanyon, Charles. 294 Larminie, Samuel, 2, 174, 206, 215, 265, 303, 338, 358 Larne. 109-10, 235, 360, 478 Lawrencetown. 163, 219 Le Bert, Rev. W. B. 112, 351, 459, 483 Lecale, 172, 204 Lee, Rev, Thomas, 465 Leech, George, 27, 174, 499 Leeds, 232 Leitrim, Co. 161, 161, 415, 433, 435 INDEX. 537 Leitrim, Town of. 106, 424 Le Maitre, Eev. F. P. 81, 176, 321, 342 Lendrum, WUliam. 107, 346, 614 Leslie, Eev. Edward. 188 Lessey, Eev. Theophilus. 172, 186, 188, 189, 233, 246, 275, 294 Lester, Mr. and Mrs. Joshua, 345 Letterfrack. 459 Letterkenny. 24, 140 Lettermoney. 334, 401 Leyny, 329, 484 Liddy, Rev. John. 205, 331 Liiford, 140 Lightbody, Johnston. 381 Limerick, City of. 38, 40, 68, 103, 104, 106, 189, 297, 306, 317, 376, 407, 440, 444, 461, 474 Limerick, County of, 3, 112 Lindsay, James. 321 Lindsay, John. 132 Lindsay. Rev. R, H. 8. 107, 204, 268 Lindsay^ Thomas G, 133 Lindsay, Eev, William. 234, 363, 380 Lisbealad. 244 Lisbellaw. 48, 170, 244, 392, 400, 408, 453, 466, 486 Lisburn. 40, 114, 122, 129, 155, 171, 175, 187, 211, 231, 234, 242, 341, 349, 360, 424, 515 Lisheenacrehig. 70 Lisleen. 262 Lismore, Down. 114 Lismore, Waterford, 364 Lisnamonaghan. 303 Lisnaskea. 209, 392, 622 Lisnawery. 63, 187 Lissacaha. 157 Lissan. 156 Little, Thomas. 289 Little, WiUiam, 61 Liverpool, 13, 25, 95 Livingston, WilUam. 524 Lock, WilUam. 300 Logan, Mr. 188 Lomas, Eev. John. 290, 368, 461, 460, 462, 612 London. 147, 221, 227, 306, 490 Londonderry, City of. 97, 140, 220, 254, 296, 299, 423, 447, 464, 465, 474, 477, 486, 508 Londonderry, Co. 71, 156, 214, 306 Long, Eev. James. 125 Long, Rev. M. ,283, 326, 368 Longford, Co. 60, 91, 161, 219, 387 Longford, Town of. 60, 65, 361, 368, 390, 400, 406, 406, 424, 478 Lough, WiUiam. 495 Lough, Rev, WiUiam. 360, 458 Loughbrickland, 130, 142, 171 Lougheed, Dr, 284 Lougheed, Rev. Thomas. 70, 294,, 411 Loughgall. 143, 300 Lough Muck. 464 Loughros Point. 422, 503 Louth. 51, 430 Love, Mr. 19 Love, John, 88 Lovett, Rev, WiUiam, 462 Lucan. 243, 385, 423, 430, 468, 483 Lucy, Rev. Henry, 122, 278 Lupton, Rev. WilUam, 122, 379, 461 Lurgan. 5, 13, 78, 99, 262, 300, 307, 312, 349, 360, 368, 481, 487, 512, 516 Lutton, Miss. 99, 124, 132, 146, 167, 219, 263, 496 Lutton, Rev. William, 430 Lynch, Rev. James. 266, 261, 275 Lynn, Dr. 110, 179, 188, 223, 224, 252, 427, 618 Lyons, Mr. 87 Lyons, Rev. John. 114, 129 M'ADAM, Mrs. 63 M'Analy, Conway. 19 M'Arthur, Alexander. 457, 462 M'Arthur, Rev. John, 295 M'Arthur, Sir WiUiam. 100, 221, 323, 457, 462 M'Cabe, WUliam. 467 M'Cappin, Rev. John. 430, 486 M'Clintock, James. 333, 334, 411 M'Clintock, Rev, Dr. 487 M'Clung, Samuel. 121, 295 M'Clure, Rev. John. 17 M'Clure, Rev. WiUiam. 17, 150, 185, 187, 211, 238, 251, 287, 352 M'Comas, Samuel. 5, 150, 316, 423 M'Comas, Thomas. 6 M'Conaghy, Jean. 157 M'Conkey, Rev. WiUiam, 80 M'ConneU, David, 448 M'ConneU, WiUiam, 122, 124, 131, 246, 264, 371 M'Cord, Rev, Charles, 120 M'Cormack, Alexander, 430, 486, 621 M'Cormick, Rev. Charies. 20, 21 M'Cormick, Rev. Joseph, 2, 239, 321, 332 369 442 M'Cornock, Rev. WilUam. 94, 204 M'CuUagh, Rev. Thomas. 288 M'Curdy, Mrs. 93 538 INDEX. M'Cutcheon, Rev. James. 167, 419 M'Cutcheon, Eev. Oliver. 432, 515 M'Dade, Eev. J. S. 460, 468 M'DougaU, Jack. 270 M'DoweU, Mrs. 138 M'Dowell, Eev. Samuel. 474 M'Elwain, Archibald. 84, 457, 462 M'Elwain, Eev. George. 209, 487 M'Fann, Thomas. 148, 214, 215, 225, 235, 247, 277, 280, 308, 337, 358, 363, 366, 368, 412, 418, 453 M'Gahie, Eev. Hugh. 473 M'Garvey, Eev, William. 235, 357, 370, 413, 440 M'llroy, Daniel. 209 M'llroy, Rev. John. 234, 241, 384, 393, 523 M'llroy, WilUam. 209 M'llwaine, Rev. Andrew. 511 M'llwaine, John. 123 M'Kay, Miss, 63 M'Kay, Rev, Colin. 294, 387, 478 M'Kay, Rev, Dr, 183, 256, 294, 299, 313, 362, 402, 424, 456, 460, 498 M'Keague, Rev, Mr. 76 M'Kee, Rev. Dr, 411 M'Kee, Rev, James. 81 M'Kee, Rev. James. 278, 360 M'Kenny, Eev, John. 216 M'Keown, Eev. James, 187 M'Lorinan, Eev. Thomas. 360 M'MUlen, Eev. Gibson, 161, 266, 283, 299, 340, 434, 446, 465, 489 M'MuUen, Rev, Daniel. 107, 135 M'MuUen, Rev. WaUace. 236, 307, 320, 456, 466, 613 M'QuUkin, James. 505, 512 Macafee, Rev. D. 7, 41, 56, 80, 107, 124, 270, 284, 368, 371, 437, 453, 465, 489 Macdonald, Rev. George B. 297, 403 Macdonald, Rev. Thomas M. 280, 351, 356 Mackey, Rev. A. 11, 92, 100, 123, 138, 166 Mackey, James. 184 Mackney. 269, 292 Macroom, 101, 139 MacwUliam, Rev, J, W. A. 478 Magee, Rev. John. 216 Maghera, Derry. 68 Maghera, Down. 369 Magherafelt. 57, 72, 93, 111, 148, 164, 266, 270, 512 Magherahar. 48 Maghon. 121, 142, 350, 604 Magowan, Rev. Robert. 121 Maguire, Father Tom. 189, 356 Maguire, Rev. Thomas C. 239-41, 258, 308, 363, 366, 384, 491, 514 Maguiresbridge. 66, 64, 89, 101, 106, 120, 126, 167, 170, 186, 204, 209, 324, 326, 333, 379, 392, 400, 479, 485, 491, 622 Mahaffy, James. 349 Mains, Jeremiah. 237 Makeaney, Mr. and Mrs. 162 Malcomson, Rev. John, 122 Mallin, John, 72, 172, 176 Mallow. 61, 130, 170, 286, 289, 328 Manchester. 380, 471 Manorhamilton: 66, 88, 168, 180, 360, 392 482 496 MarkethiU, ' 157, 179, 188, 201, 223, 427 519 Marsden, Rev. G. 42, 146, 172, 275, 278 Martin, John, BiUy. 93. Martin, John, Killorglin. 153 Martin, Rev. Thos. 104 Maryborough, 46, 123, 257, 273, 291, 600 Masaroon, Rev. Dr. 133, 146, 174, 324, 337, 345, 366, 441, 453 Mason, Abraham. 6, 205 Mason, Rev. John. 107, 109 Mateer, Rev, Samuel, 467 Mathew, Father. 288, 289 Mathews, Rev. J, F, 49, 133, 143, 244, 266, 275, 317, 360, 387, 390, 410, 411 Mathews, William. 345 Mathias, Rev. B, W. 69 Mayne, Rev, C, 11, 20, 44, 49, 73, 86, 93, 104, 108, 186, 194, 232, 233, 266 Maynooth. 355 Mayo. 2, 75, 195, 433 Maxwell, James, 224 MaxweU, Rev. Richard. 368, 522 Maze. 129 Meath. 50, 51, 414 Meneely, Jeremiah. 604, 612 Meredith, Rev. Thomas. 122, 268, 299 419 Mervyn' Rev. W. H. 234, 432, 442 Meyer, Rev. R, J. 2, 178, 233, 248, 256, 270, 361, 390-1 Middleton. 364 MiUigan, John, 41, 47, 242 MiUs, James, 92 Millstreet, 119 MiUtown, Down. 114, 150, 304, 384 MiUtown, Kerry. 364 INDEX. 539 MUne, Rev, Robert, 183 Mitchelstown, 229 Moate, 65, 61, 203 Moffett, James, 148 MohiU, 161, 161, 239, 401, 407, 414, 429 Moira, 124, 142, 188, 209, 242, 262, 263, 360 Molusk, 123 Monaghan, Co, 61, 77, 214, 430 Monaghan, Town of, 51, 63, 67, 73, 75, 174, 333, .336, 427 Monahan, Hugh, 90 Monahan, Eev. WiUiam B. 90, 442 Moncrief, Alexander. 7 Moneymore. 301 Moore, Rev, Alexander. 162, 294 Moore, Mrs. Captain, 63 Moore, Rev. Henry. 68, 96 Moore, Rev. Hugh. 152, 216 Moore, James. 46 Moore, John. 116 Moore, Thomas. 72 Moore, WiUiam. 116, 148 Moran, Rev. Thomas. 419, 423 Morgan, Rev, Dr. 136, 337 Morley, Rev. G. 46, 73, 81, 94, 132, 169 MorrLson, Joseph. 18 Morrow, Rev. Francis. 351 , 622 Morrow, James. 69, 130, 325, 359 Morrow, James, Castledawson. 270 Mountcashel, Lord. 119, 125, 133, 147 MountmelUck. 83, 123, 257, 258, 273, 281, 360 Mountpleasant. 362 Mountrath. 3, 61, 32, 66, 83, 122, 273 Mountshannon. 22, 431, 440 Moy. 354, 460, 474, 519 Moybane. 94, 247 Moyrusk. 129, 188 MuUan, WUliam. 133 MuUans. 126 Mullantur. 8, 454 MuUingar. 60, 87, 219, 390 MuUoy, Rev. WiUiam. 133, 162 Munster. 3, 34, 36, 75 Murdock, Alexander. 123-4 Murdock, Rev. A. 94, 278, 399 Murdock, Rev. J. 124, 187, 248, 439 Murphy, Alexander, 132 Murphy, Rev. M. 10, 24, 112, 233, 307 Murphy, Rev. Mr. 338 Murray, Rev, Hugh, 219 Myles, Rev. William. 9 NAPPER, Mr. R. 122 Nash, Rev. John. 36, 68, 168 Navan. 384 Neill, Eobert. 17 Nelson, Eev. J. 12, 78, 187, 336, 351 Nenagh, 32, 51, 78, 103, 419, 429, 431, 438, 440, 443, 450 Nesbitt, David. 123-4, 207 Nesbitt, Eev, John, 497 Nesbitt, Eev. Thomas. 149, 172 Newbliss, 361 New Brunswick. 80 New Buildings. 422, 447 Newcastle, Down. 99, 104, 200 Newcestown. 362 Newmarket. 384, 392 Newport. 207, 258, 375, 429, 483 New Ross. 113, 134, 200, 301, 377, 399 407 418 Newry.' 86,' 108, 113, 171, 230, 260, 304, 377, 428, 512, 514 Newstead, Rev. Robert. 104 Newton, Rev, Dr. 22, 40, 42, 44, 68, 69, 81, 132, 159, 186, 204, 215, 232, 235, 236, 246, 247, 248, 250, 251, 266, 266, 275, 278, 307, 323, 336, 337, 351, 360, 368, 371, 378, 387, 396, 399, 403, 411, 418, 424, 432 Newtovraards. 119, 171, 236, .306, 419, 616 Newtownbarry. 3, 16, 29, 35, 68, 136, 136, 151, 216, 364, 377, 400, 439, 473 Newtownbreda. 114, 150 Newtownbutler. 170, 172, 214, 239, 400, 418, 464, 486 Newtownforbes, 424 Newtowngore. 361, 392 Newtownlimavady. 188, 203, 387, 423, 431, 464, 508 Newtownmountkennedy. 126 Newtownstewart. 67, 72, 79, 84, 115, 234, 308, 324, 387, 453, 514 New Zealand, 306 Nicholson, Rev Samuel. 421-2 Nixon, Mr, 292 Noble, Rev. Arthur. 21, 74, 83 Noble, John. 110 Noble, John (Prim,). 23, 165, 463 Norwood, Rev. W. J. 125, 244, 248, 335 O'CONNELL, Daniel. 284, 373 OdeU, Miss. 217 O'Flaherty, Rev. P. 498 Oldcastle. 106 540 INDEX. Oldtown, 123, 137 OUver, Mrs, 8 Oliver, Rev, James. 8, 454, 468, 474, 477, 521 Oliver, Rev. John. 307, 409 OUver, Robert. 8 Olliffe, Rev. James, 203 Omagh. 84, 117, 124, 133, 263, 295, 324, 359, 368, 388, 419, 423, 432, 433, 451, 464, 523 O'MuUen, Denis. 117 O'Neill, Lord. 423 O'NeiU, Rev. W. F. 199 Orr, Rev. James, 467 Orr, Robert, 333, 466 Orr, Rev, Robert. 466 Orr, Rev, Thomas, 467 Osbome, WUliam, 40 Oughterard. 74, 87, 445 Ouseley, G. 3-5, 29, 30, 36-8, 49-61, 64, 74, 76-7, 86-7, 90-1, 97-9, 111, 117, 128-9, 144, 151, 157, 160, 166, 167, 183, 189, 205, 217, 243, 267, 265, 268, 272-4, 278, 284 PALMER, Dr, and Mrs, 514 Parker, Richard N, 357 Parkgate, 403 Parsons, Robert, 121,172 Parsonstown, 23, 184, 205, 281, 444 Passage West. 360 Patterson, Rev. James. 68, 119, 440 Patterson, Rev. Samuel. 440 Pattyson, Wm. 64, 72, 79, 114, 121, 143, 168-9, 180, 350, 368, 393, 442 Paul, Rev, John. 7 Paul, WiUiam. 144, 300 Payne, Joseph. 107, 142, 159, 407, 523 Payne, Thomas. 114 Peacock, James. 308 Pearce, Thomas. 80, 204 Pearson, Rev. Thomas. 411 Pedlow, Rev. Daniel. 360 Peters, John. 72 Pettigo. 243, 248, 255, 392, 451, 480, 523 PhUUps, Rev, Richard, 337, 368 Pidgeon, Nathaniel, 178 Pierce, Thomas. 122 Piercy, Rev, George, 405 Pilch, Frederick, 162 Pilcher, Rev, Jesse, 461 Place, Henry S, 282 Pollock, Rev. WiUiam, 133 Poole, Captain, 245, 370 Pope, Eev, E. T. P. 97 Portadown. 40, 143, 262, 299, 312, 339, 360, 368, 380, 410, 411, 441, 490, 495, 498, 616 Portaferry. 413 Portarlington, 216, 411 Porter, Eev. J. E. 335, 411 Porter, WilUam. 477 Portlaw. 229 Portnason. 266 Portrush, 156 Portstewart, 73, 146, 156 PoweU, Rev, John D. 452 Power, Dr, J, H, 123, 297 Preban, 126 Price, Rev. Henry. 8, 59, 108, 197, 254, 270. 307, 309, 337, 368, 372, 417,432,461, 613 Price, Rev, John, 10 Price, Rev, Richard, 378 Price, Rev. W. Guard. 419 PriesthiU. 129, 188, 420-1 Prolusk, 156, 306 Pubble, 334, 480, 486 Pugh, Rev, PhiUp. 264 Punshon, Rev. Dr. 470 QUAILE, Eev. WilUam, 419 Quarry, Rev, WiUiam H, 409, 416, 487, 489, 524 Queen's County. 29, 51, 62, 91, 243, 322, 368 RAHANS. 258 Ramsey, John. 94, 126, 140, 225, 230, 359, 478 Ramsey, Rev. John C. 474, 478 Randalstown, 423 Ransom, James, 265 Raphoe, 140 Rathdrum, 126, 139, 152, 230, 346, 377 Rathfryland, 142, 241, 324, 473 Rathmelton, 94, 148, 235, 387, 422, 433 Rathmolyon. 384 Rathmullan, 56 Ratoran. 333 Rattenbury, Rev, John. 409, 423 Rawros. 56 Rea, Hugh. 133 Recess. 434, 459 Eeece, Eev. Richard. 235 ReiUy, Mrs. 193, 293 ReUly, Rev. WilUam. 30, 63, 83, 96 131, 132, 133, 146, 167, 173, 186' 187, 191, 192, 217-8, 233, 246, 266' 270, 272, 278, 294, 299, 312, 328' INDEX. 541 345, 352-3, 356, 374, 375, 396, 399, 412-3, 437, 456, 462, 476, 497 Remmington, Rev. John. 48, 148, 278 Rentoul, Rev. James. 213 Eevington, George. 23, 61, 66, 139, 149, 235, 301, 308, 331, 339, 366, 381 Eice, WiUiam C. 132, 210, 226, 234 Eichardson, Samuel. 67 Eichardson, Thomas. 412 Eichey, Mrs. 181 Richey, Adam. 48 Richey, Rev. WiUiam. 36, 163, 376, 388 Riohhill. 619 Rieketts, Rev. William. 81 Riddle, James. 19, 404 Ridgeway, Rev. Thomas. 24, 186, 432 Ringwood. 179 Riverstown, Sligo. 283 Roberts, Rev. Thomas. 107, 108 Robinson, Rev. David. 248 Robinson, George. 172, 181, 226, 286, 295, 308, 324, 337 Robinson, James. 115 Robinson, James, sen. 100, 339, 414, 496 Robinson, James, jun. 121, 143, 169 Robinson, James, jun. 216, 265, 325, 384 Robinson, Miss. 468 Robinson, Richard. 64, 80, 181, 333, 338, 348, 368, 401, 453 Robinson, Sylvanus. 198, 213 Robinson, Eev. Thomas (Epis.). 125 Eobinson, Rev. Thomas (New Con.). 139 Robinson, Thomas, Belfast. 133 Robinson, Rev. WilUam. 308 Eobinson, WilUam, Bandon. 198 Eobinson, WUliam J. 477 Eockcorry. 63, 433 Eockfield. 6, 392 Roden, Lord. 63, 97, 131, 225, 269, 368 Eoe, Rev. Peter. 261 Rogers, Samuel. 23, 94 Rorke, Rev. C. C. 471 Roscommon. 13, 65, 63, 106, 219, 363, 400, 406, 414, 424, 435, 478 Roscrea. 23, 66, 103, 257, 281 Ross, Alexander. 183 Ross, John. 7-8 Ross, Lord. 23 Ross, Sergeant, 405 Rosscarbery, 118 Rossmacawinny. 339 Rossport, 439 Roundstone. 434 Rourke, Philip. 30-3 Rowe, Matthew, 178 Rowe, Moses, 3, 112, 178. Rowe, Thomas. 178 Rowley, James. 237 Ruddell, George. 300 Ruddy, Robert. 78 Rushfield. 218 Eushin. 273 EusseU, Mr, and Mrs, P, 48 Russell, Rev, Francis, 266 Eutledge, Rev. James, 399 Ryerson, Rev, Egerton. 235 SAINTFIELD. 185, 414, 435 SaUah, Pierra. 160 Salter, James. 213, 306 Saltwaterbridge, 160 Sargent, Rev. Thomas B. 324 Saul, Mrs, 36 Saul, Rev, John, 7. 36, 72, 86, 94, 99, 111, 148, 158, 183, 444 Scotchstreet, 121, 142, 181, 300, 360 Scott, John, 126, 288, 370 Scott, Rev,' Dr, 216, 254, 282, 345, 453, 462, 475, 497, 513 Scott, Rev, John, 323, 351, 369, 440, 461, 460, 462 Scott, Rev, WiUiam (1st), 41, 200, 226 Scott, Rev, WUUam (2nd). 351, 414 Seale, WiUiam. 162 SeweU, Rev, Robert, 359, 442 Seymour, James, 72 Shankhill. 339 Shaw, Rev, Barnabas. 262 Shaw, Charies. 297 Shaw, Rev. WilUam. 233 Sheepland. 204 Sheppard, Jamison, 123 Shera, Caleb and Michael. 13 Sheriock, Frank. 136 Sherwood, 136 Shields, John, 281 ShiUington, John, 490, 617 Shillington, Thomas, 40, 143 ShiUington, Thomas (2nd). 498 ShUlington, T. A, 108, 344, 441, 462 Shine, Eva. 283 Shuttleworth, Rev. J, 421 Sidaire. 176, 402 Simpson, Bishop. 487 Simpson, Joseph, 18 Sinclair, Henry. 124 Singleton, Dr. 346 Sixmilecross. 115, 523 542 INDEX. Skea. 180 Skibbereen. 51, 62, 70, 101, 122, 139, 176, 183, 335, 369, 374, 429, 440, 461 462 Skull. '79, 103, 198-9 Skuse, Rev. C. 215, 230, 448 Skuse, Rev. W, P. 361, 367, 442 Slack, Henry. 30, 32 Slacke, Mr. and Mrs . J. W. 56 SUgo. 26-7, 38, 42, 59, 63, 166, 173, 174, 213, 216, 219, 230, 246, 257, 283, 324, 329, 342, 374, 376, 404, 416, 430, 449, 463, 476, 482, 484, 499 Smith, Rev. Dr. Gervase. 603 Smith, Rev. James, 159 Smith, Robert. 10, 61, 107 Smith, S. H. 275 Smith, Rev. Stewart. 495 Smith, Rev. WUliam. 112, 192, 194, 278 Smyth, George. 255 Smyth, WiUiam. 88 Soule, Bishop. 324 Spencer, Hon, and Rev. George, 189 Springfield, 169, 180, 277, 407, 494 Sproule, Mrs. 263 Stamp, Rev. John. 68 Stanley, Mr. aud Mrs. 326 Stanley, Rev. Jacob. 368 Stannard, George. 305 Starkey, Mrs, 36 Starkey, Rev. William. 36, 149, 268, 292, 335, 388 Starkey, Rev, WiUiam R. 417, 513 Starraghan. 48 Steele, Rev. Samuel. 63, 66 Stephens, Eev. Francis. 431, 497 Stephens, Eev. Frederick. 430 Stephens, Eev. John. 121 Stephenson, Eev. George. 26, 217, 266 Stephenson, John. 11. 159, 277, 294, 308, 463 Sterling, Eev. James. 10, 204 Stevenson, Thomas. 8 Stewart, Alexander, 80, 132, 204, 246, 247, 280, 296, 323, 324, 337, 351, 364, 369, 379, 389, 400, 411, 418, 442, 463 Stewart, Colonel. 57 Stewart, Eev. Dr. 157 Stewart, George. 80, 231, 354, 378, 442 Stewart, James. 255 Stewart, Eev. John. 264 Stewart, Rev. Matthew. 107 Stewart, Eev. WilUam. 42, 94, 110, 123, 128, 132, 146, 202, 244, 261, 275, 278, 294, 313, 320, 340, 344, 358, 371, 387, 451 Stewartstown, 100 Stokes, WiUiam, 265, 364, 392, 514 Stoney, Edmund, 266 Stonyford, 174, 289, 430 Storey, Eev. J. C, 337, 414, 435 Storey, Eev, W, J, 392, 414, 452 Strabane. 64, 72, 115, 142, 201, 262, 433, 460 Stradbally. 123, 358 Strangford. 22, 61 Stranorlar, 148 Street, 91 Strokestown. 106 Strong, Rev. Robert. 169 Stuart, Rev, David. 145 Stuart, Rev. James. 133, 159, 160 Stuart, Rev. John. 81, 187 Sturgeon, Rev. A. 159, 221, 236, 278 Sullivan, E. 69, 114, 130, 364, 381, 496 SulUvan, Rev. James. 68, 73, 188, 261, 386, 399, 419 SulUvan, John W. 67 Summerfield, Rev. John. 11, 13, 20 Sunday, John. 247, 260, 261 Suter, A. G. 275 SwanUnbar. 55, 66, 407, 464 Swanton, James H. 70, 199, 452, 462, 465 Swanton, Rev. William. 462 Swanzy, Andrew. 73 TACKABERRY, Mrs. 294, 309 Tackaberry, Rev. F. 28, 44, 52, 59, 62, 66, 71, 83, 108-9, 111, 131, 176, 182, 197-8, 216-7, 233, 234, 246, 262-4, 264, 278, 292-4, 298, 309, 318, 319, 334, 340, 365, 366, 374, 375, 376, 378 Tackaberry, James. 309 Tackaberry, Rev. John. 235 Taghmon. 113 Tallow. 364 Tamnaghmore. 354, 520 Tanderagee. 9, 41, 80, 94, 121, 168, 181, 234, 236, 246, 265, 307, 334, 360, 368, 468, 473, 497, 604 Tarbert. 4, 148, 268, 429, 439 Tate, Mrs. 181 Tavlor, Rev. Andrew. 73 Taylor, Rev. Henry. 148, 400, 407 Taylor, John, 80 Taylor, Rev, Joseph. 68, 215 Taylor, WiUiam. 170 Templemore. 23, 220, 281, 363, 407 INDEX. 543 Tempo. 132, 239, 308, 333, 392, 467, 474, 522 Tennent, Sir J. Emerson. 306 Terryhoogan. 334 Thoburn, Matthew, 124 Thomas, Rev. Edward. 467 Thomas, George. 61 Thompson, Rev. Mr. 188 Thompson, James. 361 Thompson, Rev. John. 88, 94, 209, 231, 364, 504 Thompson, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. 125 Thompson, Eobert. 175 Thurles. 345 Tinahely. 139, 230, 377 Tipperary, Co. 61 Tipperary, Town. 320 Tireragh. 21 Tobias, Eev. M. 54, 70, 96, 133, 136, 143, 202, 248, 276, 360 Tobias, Eev. James. 112, 133, 174, 256, 351, 432, 456, 464 Todd, Eev. John, 453, 479, 486, 491 Todd, Samuel. 609 Togherdoo. 23, 209, 392, 455 Tonyloman. 277 Toomath, John. 322, 346, 354, 363 Topped Mountain. 333, 334 Townley, Eev. Dr. 149 Tracy, Rev. R. T. 84-6, 99, 245 Tracy, Thomas. 40 TraU, Rev. Dr. 198-9 Tralee. 156, 189, 268, 299, 429, 431, 440 Tramore. 329 Treffry, Eev. Eichard. 204 Trench, Eev. F. P. 331 Trench, Eev. F. S, 71 TrilUck. 209, 214, 242, 265, 335, 392, 465 Trim. 6, 50, 74, 148, 385, 423, 430, 468, 483 Trory. 161 Tuam. 145, 311 Tucker, Edward. 19, 320, 372 Tucker, Samuel. 7 Tucker, WilUam. 7 TuUa, 439 TuUamore, 10, 23, 54, 57, 257, 263, 280-1, 292, 335 TuUow, 377 TuUybane. 460 TuUyroan. 143, 302, 381 Turlough. 258,424 Tyrone. 46, 51, 214 TyrreU, James. 390-1 TyrreUspass. 65 ULSTEE. 3, 36, 37, 69 Urraghry. 163, 268 Urwick, Eev. Dr. 63, 75, 438 VANCE, Eev. Dr. 120, 216, 219, 296, 461 Vance, Eobert. 505, 511 Vernersbridge. 384 Vicars, Captain. 219 Virginia. 476 WADDY, Rev, Richard. 80, 81 Wakefield, Charies. 163 Wakeham, John G. 204, 263, 332, 350 Walker, Rev. J. 163, 266, 431, 438, 450 Wallace, John. 505 Wallace, Rev. R. 119, 235, 463, 466, 503, 508. WaUis, WUUam. 184 Walsh, Robert. 29 Walsh, Thomas. 269, 292 Ward, Hon. Miss S. 156, 227 Ward, Rev. V. 62, 63, 68, 69, 81 Waringstown. 87, 130 Warren, Mr. and Mrs. 413 Warren, Rev. Dr. 226 Warrenpoint. 326 Washington, George. 23, 101 Waterford. 61, 65, 288, 306, 328, 369, 407, 439, 490 Watson, Rev. Richard. 107-8, 1 65 Waugh, Rev. David. 146, 278, 337, Waugh, Rev. Dr. 294 Waugh, Rev. John. 294, 451 Waugh, Rev. Thomas. 14-5, 19-20, 40, 95, 116, 126, 130, 133, 147, 169, 166, 191, 193, 194, 2.34, 243, 248, 260, 267, 274, 276, 278, 305, 313, 314, 320, 335, 344, 365, 369, 390, 398, 399, 419, 432, 441, 442, 462, 513 Weir, Rev. Samuel, 473, 512 Wellesley, Lord, 34 Welply, Mrs, 16, 218 Welply, WilUam. 15, 198, 218 Wesley, Rev, John. 134, 394 West, Rev. F. A, 477, 512 West, Montgomery, 65 Westmeath, 60, 219 Westport, 2, 174, 206, 268, 376, 432, 434, 446, 483 Wexford, Co. 28, 49, 60, 66 Wexford, Town, 2, 112, 178, 179, 232-3, 274, 336, 369, 377, 439 544 INDEX. Wherry, John, 132, 325, 339, 351, 367, 380, 463, 514 White, Mr, 287 White, Prank, 297 White, James, 174 White, Eev. John, 321, 324, 333, 338, 340, 363, 474, 477, 481, 492, 496, 603, 524 Whitegate. 162, 346, 443 White Park. 78 Whitley, John. 79 Whitley, John, sen. 79, 199 Whittaker, Mrs. 26-7, 376, 404, 416, 476, 482 Whittle, Edward. 61, 130 Wicklow, Co. 50, 139, 346, 364 Wicklow, Town of. 42, 122, 230, 294, 321, 377, 389, 439 Wiggins, Rev. John. 497 Wiggins, Rev. Richard. 448 Wiley, Noble, 41, 67, 106 WUkin, John, 48 Wilkinson, John. 306 WUIiams, Arthur, 21 Williams, Rev, Johu, 122, 328, 399 WiUiams, Richard, 443 Wilson, Charles, 473 WUson, Hugh, 64 Wilson, Eev. James. 334, 389, 473, 620 Wilson, James, Belfast, 132, 246 Wilson, Eev, Jer, 187, 252, 270, 431. WUson, Rev. John, sen. 307 WUson, Rev. John, jun. 42, 70, 118, 122 Wilson, Rev. John (Con.). 135 Wilson, Rev. John (Prim.). 308, 430 WUson, Rev. John (Wes.). 392, 414, 427, 432, 436, 455, 468, 477, 489, 624 WUson, Rev. John S. 36, 69, 74, 368 Wilson, Rev. Robert (Prim.). 121, 169, 242 Wilson. Rev. Robert (Wes.), 9, 294 Wilson; Thomas. 186, 230, 238, 496 Wilson, Thomas, Waterford. , 329 Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. Tobias. 369 Wilson, Rev, William, 10 Wood, Mr, 244 Wood, Rev. Charles. 392, 414, 432 Wood, Rev. James. 9 Wood, Rev. Samuel, 20, 44, 46, 59, 66, 81, 92, 100, 108, 122, 136, 219, 294, 336 Woodbum. 151 Woodland, Joshua. 501 Woods, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. 207 Worrell, Eev. Zechariah. 216 YORK, David. Ill Youghal. 24, 42, 80, 188, 204, 206, 303, 327, 338, 346, 351, 364, 369, 376, 388, 424, 440 Young, John, 342 Young, Joseph, 132, 246, 437 Young, Rev. Robert, 220, 305, 487 Young, Rev, Samuel, 411, 416, 423, 445, 447, 449, 461 Printed by HazeU, Watson, & Viney, Ld,, London and Aylesbury. YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY Illll l-» mil Illll I III I II II III 1 1 III III 1 1 III III 1 1 III III I III 1 1 III If II -. 3 9002 085617406 ^ ; > .