The Lord President of the North appointed by Wesley
Based
on Wesley's letters to Christopher Hopper
Odilon
Massolar Chaves
Copyright © 2026, Odilon Massolar Chaves
All rights reserved to the author.
It is allowed to read, copy and share for
free.
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of February 19, 1998.
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retired, PhD in Theology
and History from the Methodist University of São Paulo.
Son of Rev. Adherico
Ribeiro Chaves and Roza Massolar Chaves.
He is married to RoseMary.
He has two daughters:
Liliana and Luciana.
His thesis dealt with the
Methodist revival in England in the eighteenth century and its contribution as
a paradigm for our days.
Table of Contents
· Introduction
· Who was Christopher Hopper
· If you don't help him, he'll hurt you
· But love can bend the stubborn neck
· I'm glad you had a free conversation
· In the House of Orphans
· So his work was not in vain
· Be Methodist Everywhere
· From the very beginning, nothing of our
Rules,
· Let's work in this fruitful season
· Take it out of the furnace, or it will be
consumed
· Pray very earnestly, and God will provide the
rest
· It is mismanagement to neglect old places to
preach in new ones
· We want more workers, especially in the North
· Each preacher must be alternately in the city
and in the countryside
· Lord President of the North
· Show them the difference
· An incorrigible coxcomb
· Consider not custom, but reason
· Don't accept denial
· Much could be done
· It will be of little use without exact
discipline
· Let Him do what feels good
· Here is a people ready for the Lord
· Every preacher will change every year
· My Welsh church has a beautiful air
· There was little administration in the
Orphans' House
· It is the Lord's work
· I conceived him as not the best, though not
the worst, of our preachers
· A company of poor gentlemen
· Such a good account of the preaching houses
in Liverpool and Warrington
· Disorder is universal throughout Britain and
Ireland
· Reasons to Expect God to Interfere
· You did very well to write to the Mayor
· It's completely crazy
· Construction of the foundation of the new
chapel
· My time is short
· Until that happens, everything else is off
target
· Neither with decency nor prudence
· I have no opinion on this point
============================
Introduction
"The Lord President of the North
appointed by Wesley" is a 43-page book based on Wesley's letters to
Christopher Hopper.
"This title was, in fact, an honorific and
affective designation, and not an official ecclesiastical
office. It served to acknowledge the authority and respect that Hopper held in
the expansion and supervision of Methodism in the north of England."[1]
In 1768, Wesley appointed him with the won
to oversee and lead the Methodist Societies comprising Cumberland,
Northumberland, Westmorland, Durham, Yorkshire, and Lincolnshire.
The small town in Lincolnshire is the place where John and Charles Wesley were born. The region
of Cumberland, in the extreme northwest of England, was reached by Wesley and
his preachers.
"Christopher Hopper
represented the practical force of Methodism, known for being a fearless,
eloquent preacher and deeply faithful to the Wesleyan doctrine of holiness and
social justice."[2]
He was president of the Methodist Conference in Bristol in 1780
when Wesley had to be absent.
"Christopher
Hopper was one of Wesley's most influential preachers, helping to found many of
the first societies in the North East"[3] of England.
After he retired, he
went to live in a house next to a Methodist chapel and continued to preach.
A life
story and a dedicated ministry that serve as examples for our days.
The Author
============================
Who was Christopher Hopper
Christopher
Hopper (1722–1802) was born in 1722 in Ryton, Durham, in
the north of England. He joined the
Wesleyan itinerancy in
1748.
"Hopper
became a member of the society at Low Spen, near Newcastle, after Wesley's
visit in July 1743. He had been a teacher before becoming an
itinerant. Hopper was Wesley's travelling companion in England,
Wales and Scotland (being the first itinerant Methodist to venture north of the
border). Hopper was itinerant for forty-seven years and corresponded
regularly with Wesley. Wesley appointed him 'Lord President of the
North' in 1768, conferring on him jurisdiction over the Methodist Societies
from Cumberland to Lincolnshire." [4]
He
was president of the Methodist Conference in
the absence of John Wesley at
the Bristol conference in 1780.
In
1766, Hopper wrote "The Epistle of the Simple Man to Every Son of Adam."
Hopper
was one of the veteran preachers mentioned in Wesley's Act of Declaration to
lead the Methodist Movement after his death.
In 1792, Hopper retired and went to live in Bolton where he built a house next to the chapel and thus continued to preach.Hopper died in Bolton on 5 March 1802.[5]
Highlights
"Substitute in Leadership: In 1780, at the Bristol Methodist Conference, Christopher Hopper was chosen to serve as the President of the Methodist Conference due to the absence of John Wesley. He was the only one to hold this position during Wesley's lifetime.
Right-hand man in the Expansion: In 1759, Wesley sent Hopper to lead and preach in new territories, significantly expanding the reach of Methodism in regions such as Scotland and the north of England.
Close
Correspondence: They maintained a regular exchange of spirit letters. In a
famous letter sent to Hopper in 1775, Wesley offered pastoral counseling in
times of trouble, showing intimate affection by signing off as "his
affectionate friend and brother."[6]
The High House Chapel in Ireshopburn, County Durham, is named after him.
Wesley's letters to Christopher
Hopper reveal a long correspondence of frankness, solution of adverse
situations, friendship and trust:
If you
don't help him, he'll hurt you
John
Bennet wrote foolishly for both Newcastle and Ireland. If you don't help him, he'll hurt you
For Christopher
Hopper
LONDON, February 6,
1750.
MY DEAR BROTHER, --
John Bennet wrote foolishly both for Newcastle and for Ireland. If you don't help him, he will hurt you. I
would like him to give Mr. Carmichael the guinea I promised, and send the rest
of the book money he has in his hands to me. [7]
But love can bend the
stubborn neck
I'm glad you had a free
conversation with T. Olivers. There is goodness in it, though it is a rough
piece of wood. But love can bend the stubborn neck. By faith and love, we will
overcome all things
For Christopher Hopper
NORWICH, January 18, 1762.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- Public
affairs look extremely gloomy, and the clouds gather more and more. [See the
March 1 letter to him.] Still, the Lord is seated above the waters and remains
king forever. And He (whatever the fate of His enemies) will give His people
the blessing of peace.
If you don't establish good
order in the Orphans' House, it's a shame you go there. This is the very
purpose of your Master; To this end you are sent. Do exactly as I would in
every situation if I were in your shoes. Act exactly what is right, whoever is
satisfied or displeased. I give her under my hand and I will be by her side
with all my strength.
I'm glad you had a free
conversation with T. Olivers. [See letter of March 24, 1761.] There is goodness
in it, though it is a rough piece of wood. But love can bend the stubborn neck.
By faith and love, we will overcome all things.
Peace be with you and
yours.--I am your ever-affectionate brother. I will leave for London tomorrow. [8]
In the House of Orphans
I'm glad you're in the
Orphan House, if only so you could leave a word in time for T. Olivers. In this
fortnight I must leave for Ireland. When will you leave for Scotland?
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, March 1, 1762.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- Public
convolutions fill the minds and hands of those who might otherwise employ
themselves to impede the course of the gospel. And they are probably of great
use in giving more seriousness and reflection to a young and inexperienced prince.
[See letter of January 18.]
brother and servant. [9]
So his work was not in vain
So
his work was not in vain. I hope for an account of the rest of your journey as
well
For Christopher Hopper
CORK, June 18, 1762.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- Then
your work was not in vain. I expect an account of the rest of your journey as
well. And you will also be able to inform me about the true character and
behavior of Robert Miller. I don't quite understand him. But I see James Kershaw
and he is not surprised.
Please tell me as
specifically as possible how William Fugill [Fugill], a native of Rothwell,
near Leeds, was initially helpful and acceptable; But he fell into 'some
grievous sins' and was excluded in 1764. See Atmore Memorial, pp. 147-8.] he
behaved well in Scotland, and this made it difficult to increase the work in
Edinburgh. I thought the Society would have been folded before that.
I hope to be in Dublin on
Saturday, July 24. Then Providence will decide how I shall go on and whether I
shall embark for Parkgate, Liverpool, or Holyhead on my way to Leeds, where I
hope to meet you all on August 10th. [Hopper was appointed to the Leeds Circuit
at this Conference.]--I am yours with affection. I hope everyone puts in the
effort in the Summer Solstices Collection for Kingswood. [10]
Be Methodist Everywhere
From the very
beginning, there is nothing about our Rules, whether from the Society or the
bands. Be Methodist everywhere. Be accurate in everything. Be zealous; Be
active. Move on to the one thing and carry everything in front of you
For Christopher Hopper
BRISTOL, September 3, 1763.
MY DEAR BROTHER,—I am very
inclined to think that you will be more useful this year than you have ever
been in your life. From the very beginning, there is nothing about our Rules,
whether from the Society or the bands. Be Methodist everywhere. Be accurate in
everything. Be zealous; Be active. Move on to the one thing and load everything
in front of you. How much can be done before the end of summer! Your little
misunderstandings in Edinburgh will soon be eliminated by listening to the
parties in person. I hope a preacher has gone north, and Brother Roberts will
come south. [Robert Roberts, of Leeds, is mentioned in the Act of Declaration,
1784. He was the son of a farmer, born at Upton, near Chester, in 1731. He
became a preacher in 1759 and died in 1799, a zealous and judicious man. See
the letters of November 2.] I hate delay. 'The King's business calls for
haste!' —I am, with love to Sister Hopper,
With all the affection. [11]
Take the countryside
everywhere whenever possible. Who goes to the Highlands now fast. [12]
Let's work in this fruitful
season
Oh, let us work in this
fruitful season! We unite in love to Sister Hopper and to you
For Christopher Hopper
WELLING, November 2, 1763.
MY DEAR BROTHER, —
'Dundee,' you say, 'would be grateful for a preacher.' But who would give him
things necessary for the body? He cannot live in the air; and now we expect
Scotland to bear its own burden. John Hampson [Hampson was a popular preacher.
He remained in Manchester, where the account book of 27 December 1762 and 28
March 1763 records payments of 3 shillings to him; in December, it's 2 2s. In
April and December, 1764, 3 shillings; on July 3 13s. 6d.] You shouldn't think
about anything else. But I doubt whether our friends at Newcastle are out of
patience for want of R. Roberts. [See letter of September 3.] In the spring,
you'll need a fourth preacher. But what would he have to do
So, I think you should get
the plan without Cannongate. 'The earth is the Lord's, and his fullness.'
Sevenpence and a half penny! Pff! Let it be eight pence, even money. In time,
it may give Mr. Trail more work. Oh, let us work in this fruitful season! We
unite in love for Sister Hopper and you. "I am
With affection. [13]
Take it out of the furnace, or it will be consumed
His mind is nowhere near strong enough to bear that
weight of applause. Either way, take it out of the furnace, or it will be
consumed. And you know full well that change is better for people, as well as
for him
To Christopher Hopper
BRISTOL, September
29, 1764.
MY DEAR BROTHER,--My
judgment is this,-- that it is better for you to be in Edinburgh (but in a more
airy accommodation, if it may be for love or money) before the end of next
month, James Kershaw in Dundee and Tommy Hanby in Aberdeen. If you feel love or
pity for him, let him not stay too long in Dundee. His mind is nowhere near
strong enough to bear that weight of applause. Either way, take it out of the
furnace, or it will be consumed. And you know very well that a change is better
for people, as well as for him. Isn't it easy for him and you to change clothes
on the appointed day and then for you to stay in Dundee until you are replaced
by James Kershaw? Peace be upon your spirits--I am your affectionate friend and
brother. I hope you have been to Sir Archibald's house. [Sir Archibald Grant.
See the Diary, iv. 451.]. [14]
Pray very earnestly,
and God will provide the rest
You and James Kershaw
are thoughtful men. You need to work with intelligence to find ways and means.
I venture to answer for fifty pounds, payable next August. Let our brethren
pray very earnestly, and God will provide the rest
For Christopher
Hopper
BRISTOL, October 16,
1765.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- So
honest Sander [Alexander Coates. See letter of July 7, 1761.] He managed to
weather all the storms and got safely into the refuge! The Lord does everything
well. I wouldn't want to stay here any longer than could be useful.
You and James Kershaw
are thoughtful men. You need to work with intelligence to find ways and means.
I venture to answer for fifty pounds, payable next August. Let our brethren
pray with great sincerity, and God will provide the rest.--I am yours with affection.
I'm going back to London. [15]
It is mismanagement
to neglect old places to preach in new ones
It is mismanagement
to neglect old places to preach in new ones. Still, I have been informed that
he has been useful in Scotland
For Christopher
Hopper
LONDON, December 17,
1765.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- I
am glad you have been in Edinburgh, especially on such a good mission. But I
wonder if T. Olivers [Olivers had been appointed to Glasgow in August] ever
disappointed them at Musselburgh. It is mismanagement to neglect old places to
preach in new ones. Still, I have been informed that he has been useful in
Scotland. Whether he should now go to Glasgow or postpone a little longer, I
have left it to T. Taylor [Taylor was assistant at Edinburgh. See Wesley's
Veterans, vii. 43-4; and letter of July 8, 1766.] choice. If you can spare
Moseley Cheek six or eight days, let him visit poor Dunbar. If Brother
Williams' affairs are not settled, he should not be in so public a place as
Edinburgh.
On one condition —
that Michael [Michael Fenwick. See letter of September 12, 1755 to Ebenezer
Blackwell.] he will make it a point to follow his directions in everything,
great and small—I consent to his staying in Newcastle. If it is orientable, it
can do well. O heal him of being a coxcomb-- I am Yours with affection. To Mr.
Hopper, at the Orphans' House, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. [16]
We want more workers,
especially in the North
You know, the more
work, the more blessing. There is also good work to be done in this kingdom;
And many of our preachers do this with great dedication. But we want more
workers, especially in the North, where one preacher is increased to seven!
For Christopher
Hopper
ATHLONE, June 18,
1767.
MY DEAR BROTHER,--
Sometimes children forget their parents; But rarely do parents forget their
children. I suppose it was the death of the honest Paul Greenwood [See letter
of October 8, 1755.] that prompted his account. He could not be spared: but he
was ready for the Bridegroom; then it was only right that he should come to
Him.
Michael [See letter
of 27 November, 1766.] must take care to be in Dublin or the North of Ireland
before the end of July. If it is possible for him to be a plain, simple man,
pretending only to follow Christ, God will find employment for him. And if he walks
cautiously and humbly in Ireland, the people of England will soon be reconciled
to him.
I wish you the joy of
having a full job. [After his health crisis.] You know, the more work, the more
blessing. There is also good work to be done in this kingdom; And many of our
preachers do this with great dedication. But we want more workers, especially
in the North, where one preacher is increased to seven! And the people are
crying out for more. But, alas! we can neither compel nor hire them-- I am,
with affection to Sister Hopper,
Your affectionate
friend and brother.
I hope to see you and
honest John [John Fenwick, who was assisting Hopper.] at the Conference. An
accurate account of the Societies you will bring with you. [17]
Each preacher must be
alternately in the city and in the countryside
For Christopher
Hopper
BRISTOL, October 9,
1767.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- It
is a pity, but we could follow the blow at Belford [Fifteen miles beyond
Alnwick. Wesley preached there on May 22, 1766: 'The hearers were earnestly
attentive, and some seemed to understand what was said.' See the Diary, v.
167.]; I think something can be done there. I have appointed John Atlay to stay
in Glasgow until February, and Jos. Thompson
at the Dunbar Circuit. Two preachers, if they are zealous and active, will do
better than one. But why isn't Joseph Thompson there? I will not let my plan be
changed! Whoever does not observe the twelfth rule of a preacher ['Act in all
things, not according to your own will, but as a son in the gospel, and in
union with your brethren, etc.'] renounces the connection with me! If Joseph
Thompson does not intend to renounce this, let him come to Dunbar at once. I'll
go in or take it out! I tell them what these two preachers are to do. 'Every
preacher should be alternately in town and country'—that is, in Leith,
Dalkeith, Linlithgow, and Burrawytowys. Let them keep it, and soon the fruit
will appear. And if they don't comply with that, regardless of any reason or
presence to the contrary, I won't worry about them anymore. I will not try to
guide those who will not be guided by me. There is already a round cutout. Let
them abide by this, or renounce all kind of relationship with me!
Legacy or not, Samuel
Franks [Wesley's Book Steward; Olivers was Hilton's classmate in Dublin.] I
will respond to your demands. But what do you think of John Hilton? Didn't he
do anything in Scotland? He was all life—just fire. I'm going to tell Thomas Oliver
part of my mind.
Now let you and me
move forward in the name of God. We know who we believe. "I am
With affection.[18]
Lord President of the
North
I consider you,
Christopher Hopper by name, Lord President of the North. Enter your province,
Northumberland, Cumberland, Westmorland, Durham, Yorkshire,
and Lincolnshire, without delay
For Christopher Hopper
January 9, 1768.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- I
consider you, Christopher Hopper by name, Lord President of the North. Enter
your province, Northumberland, Cumberland, Westmorland, Durham, Yorkshire, and
Lincolnshire, without delay. Please send letters to Jacob Rowell, Jo. Heslop,
Richard Boardman, [Rowell was assistant in the Dales, and Boardman at York: for
Heslop, see letters of 26 September and 1 October; and Boardman, letter of 27
March, 1771.] and his other deputies without loss of time; and accelerate them
to put all their strength and make a single effort for all. But wait! John
Fenwick writes to me: 'I give 25!' Don't erase the five! No retreat! I think
the time has come to ignore this rebuke from us. His thought of preachers is
noble. If fifty of them were to set such an example, giving a little of what
they had in a little, such an example would have an effect on many. Let one
shake another. Spare no effort. Write east, west, north, and south. You have a
mind ready and a pen ready; and it cannot be used for a better cause.--I am
With affection. [19]
Show them the
difference
Show them the
difference. I beg you to fix them or finish them off. Let this wood be taken
from among us
For
Christopher Hopper
MANCHESTER,
March 29, 1768.
DEAR CHRISTOPHER,-- I don't see
any help for that. What has to be, has to be. You should go directly to York,
Leeds and Bradford. Our rich sign twenty shillings a year. And neither Brother
Boardman, nor Brisco, nor Bumstead, nor Oliver can move them. They want a
hard-mouthed man. I'll leave you in the blink of an eye. Show them the
difference. I beg you to fix them or finish them off. Let this wood be taken
from among us.--I am. [20]
An incorrigible
coxcomb
The poor man is an
incorrigible coxcomb. His last exploit with Mr. Oastler's niece secured the
coffin. I can't imagine what can be done with it or how it can be trusted
anywhere
For Christopher
Hopper
BRISTOL, October 1,
1768.
Really, Christopher,
I'm at my limit. I don't know what can be done. Maybe you can teach me. The
poor man is an incorrigible coxcomb. His last exploit with Mr. Oastler's niece
secured the coffin. I can't imagine what can be done with it or how it can be
trusted anywhere. He cannot be anywhere in the South or West of England;
Neither my brother nor many others have been able to suffer this. There is no
vacancy in the North of England; And wherever he has been there, they are tired
of him. I ask again, where he may be, where he will do no harm in any part of
Scotland or Ireland. If the time came for my journey to Ireland, I would take him
with me and leave him there.--I am, with love to Sister Hopper,
Your affectionate
friend and brother. [21]
Note: incorrigible
coxcomb is "a term often used in Shakespeare's works (such as in the play The
Coxcomb ) to describe a foolish, vain, or superficial man".[22]
Consider not custom,
but reason
Do not consider
custom, but reason. I would like you to (1) Nowhere begin to preach after seven
o'clock in the evening; (2) Preach nowhere unless you can and want to get you a
reasonable lodging
For Christopher
Hopper
LONDON, December 3,
1768.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- Do
not consider custom, but reason. [Hopper was the preacher at the Birstall
Circuit.] I would like you to (1) Nowhere begin to preach after seven o'clock
in the evening; (2) Preach nowhere unless you can and want to get him a
reasonable lodging; (3) Change the stewards as soon as possible, whether
satisfied or displeased; (4) To execute our discipline in all points without
fear or favoritism; (5) Do not expect thanks from Richard Taylor or any other
man for doing you good. "I am, with affection to Sister Hopper,
Your affectionate
friend and brother. [23]
Don't accept denial
Follow in the name of
the Lord. Speak, and speak again. Do not accept denial. Be as active as Sister
Hopper would be if she were in your shoes
For Christopher
Hopper
LONDON, January 5,
1769.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- If
Joseph Cownley or you want to go to New York, I won't say no. I believe it
would help your own health and help many precious souls. However. Taylor is
very good at Alnwick. However, if I can raise a little money for his family,
I'd be happy.
Now let's see what
you can do in the Big Matter, with the Lord being your Helper. I doubt his name
is Christopher Hopper if the Birstall Circuit doesn't underwrite more [Another
hand wrote above in faded ink, 'Towards paying the General Debt.'] this year
than the last. And take honest Tommy Lee and Daniel Bumstead by the hand.
Follow in the name of the Lord. Speak, and speak again. Do not accept denial.
Be as active as Sister Hopper would be if she were in your shoes. You love
doing everything that contributes to the comfort of
Your affectionate
friend and brother.
For Miss Helena.
Bolton, at Mr. Bolton's house, in Witney, Oxfordshire. [24]
Much could be done
If all the Assistants put
as much effort as Christopher Hopper into the Annual Collection, much could be
done
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, January 16, 1770.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- There is
reason to believe that this has indeed been a festival throughout the kingdom.
While a Sacheverell madness has spread far and wide, God gives us the spirit of
love and of sound mind.
I believe that, indeed, if
we could obtain these premises on reasonable terms, together with such
servitude or security (are terms synonymous?), as you have mentioned, it would
be a noble acquisition, and might tend very much to the advancement of God's work
in Edinburgh.
Your affectionate friend
and brother. [25]
It will be of little use
without exact discipline
You're right. If a man
preaches like an angel, it will be of little use without exact discipline.
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, October 13, 1770.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- You are
right. If a man preaches like an angel, it will be of little use without exact
discipline. I'm glad that honest William Hodgson was helpful; And I hope you
made him and his brother friends. I'll trust you for letting anywhere go six or
eight weeks without preaching. Let this evil be removed, and the congregations
will increase both on Wednesdays and Sundays. Please warn your young man
continually (and yourself), 'Not for too long nor too high!' I am very glad
that honest R. Roberts preached the Cross. 'Go and do the same.' I leave both
the vicar and the vicar in your hands. I don't care about them. I let them
fall. Be strong in the Lord and in His power--I am, with love for Sister
Hopper,
Your affectionate friend
and brother. [26]
Let Him do what feels good
We are sure that God is
wise in all His ways and merciful in all His works. But often their reasons are
no longer discovered. We can only say, 'It is the Lord; let Him do what seems good.'
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, December 21, 1770.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- We are
sure that God is wise in all His ways and merciful in all His works. But often
their reasons are no longer discovered. We can only say, 'It is the Lord; let
Him do what seems good.'
I wish that good young man,
Mr. Hill, could be persuaded to join us. He is upright at heart and desires
very well to be a useful worker in our Lord's vineyard.-- With love to Sister
Hopper. [27]
Here is a people ready for
the Lord
If I live to finish the
correction of my own works, then I will review the Christian Library. If he
ever spent twelve months in this kingdom, he would not regret his work. Here is
a people ready for the Lord. "I am, with love to Sister Hopper,
For Christopher Hopper
CORK, May 5, 1771.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- The work
must be delivered in weekly and monthly numbers; but it's more useful to have
portable volumes. [The first collected edition of Wesley's Works, published in
thirty-two volumes of 12mo, 1771-4. see Green's Bibliography, No. 276.] I have
corrected as much as I can do in nine or ten of the thirty volumes. All the
works in verse I corrected together with the preachers, and I left the
corrected copy in London. If I live to finish the correction of my own works,
then I will review the Christian Library. If he ever spent twelve months in
this kingdom, he would not regret his work. Here is a people ready for the
Lord. "I am, with love to Sister Hopper,
Your affectionate friend
and brother. [28]
Every preacher will change
every year
For Christopher Hopper
BRISTOL, September 22,
1771.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- You and
I differ somewhat in our judgment. I think Yarm Circuit is a very comfortable
game. But I see an evil growing among us: preachers claim to be together two
years in the same round, because it has already been suffered at times; but if
so, I must endure it no longer. Every preacher will change every year; unless
they leave it to my judgment to make an exception from time to time I see
sufficient cause. However, for now, if Thomas Hanson is willing, you can switch
circuits with him. To a request that I did not approve, silence was the mildest
response. However, I would rather you were in Leeds. I believe you would have
done more good. But others spoke first. Please don't stay with you sooner, if
we live another year.--I am, with love for Sister Hopper,
Your affectionate friend
and brother.
To Mr. C. Hopper, Yarm. [29]
Methodist preachers cannot
always have proper accommodations for gentlemen
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, October 13, 1771.
MY DEAR BROTHER,--
Methodist preachers cannot always have proper accommodations for gentlemen. But
let's look at David Brainerd and praise God for what we have. Overall, the Yarm
Circuit is one of the best in England. [See the letter of September 22.] Living
souls make sufficient reparations for inconvenient houses.
I am convinced that
wherever the Assistant is sincere in the subject and has a little attention and
patience, the weekly contribution will answer the end. Difficulties we should
expect; but with God's help you will conquer them. If Tommy Hanson and you live
to May, you can change again.--I am, with affection to Sister Hopper,
Your affectionate friend
and brother. [30]
My Welsh church has a beautiful air
My Welsh
church has a beautiful air, but no land or money that belongs to it
For Christopher
Hopper
LEWISHAM, February
26, 1772.
MY DEAR BROTHER,--
When Mr. Shirley (or rather Lady H.) published that wonderful circular letter,
[See Tyerman's Wesley, iii. 93-4. The letter led to Fletcher's Cheques.] Little
was it imagined that it would be the occasion to establish precisely those doctrines
that it was intended to destroy. So different were the thoughts of God from the
thoughts of men! T. Olivers was more scared than hurt. [Olivers played a
prominent role in the controversy with Toplady and others.] We all agree on
this: 'By your words you will be justified' (on the last day); 'And by thy
words' (yes, and works) 'thou shalt be condemned.'
April 6, I hope to be
in Manchester; and thence to drive through Whitehaven to Glasgow, Perth, and
Aberdeen. My Welsh church has a beautiful air, but no land or money that
belongs to it. Peace be upon you and yours -- I am. [31]
Your affectionate
friend and brother.
To Mr. Christopher
Hopper, in Bradford, Yorkshire.
There was little administration in the
Orphans' House
Admittedly, there was little administration
in the House of Orphans, or you wouldn't have a penny of debt. However, do
everything you can to pay off the General Debt
For Christopher Hopper
LIVERPOOL, March 21, 1773.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- You have
saved us a hundred pounds in regard to the house in Bradford. A hundred pounds
less will serve there, which may be applied to better ends. Then you can use
your free opinions on any other subject (directing to Dublin) whenever you
want. Admittedly, there was little administration in the House of Orphans, or
you wouldn't have a penny of debt. However, do everything you can to pay off
the General Debt. I don't know where Peggy Dale could have made a better choice
[She married on March 4 to Edward Avison. See the header of the letter of June
1, 1765]. Peace be upon your spirits--I am
Your affectionate friend and brother. [32]
We have taken a few steps further towards a
general trust
We have taken a few steps
further toward a general confidence; But this issue happens very slowly
For
Christopher Hopper
LONDON, August 7, 1773.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- Before
paying any more money to the Dundee house, security must be given that the
house will be settled as per our plan as soon as the debt on it is paid.
As for the Edinburgh house,
you say, 'If they pay the interest and the excess rent, it doesn't matter if
you pay another shilling.' It doesn't matter! What happens then to the
Preaches' Fund Blessed committee that lent him almost two hundred pounds!
Your affectionate friend and brother. [33]
It is the Lord's work
We don't see how the work
can continue, and we didn't see (before) how it could get to what it is today.
All we can say is, It is the Lord's work. And He must take care of His own work
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, November 12, 1773.
MY DEAR BROTHER,--We do not
see how the work can continue, and we have not seen (before) how it could get
to what it is today. All we can say is, It is the Lord's work. And He must take
care of His own work.
You should contract your
sails if you live another year, and not carry such a large compass. Unless you
move to a warmer climate, Northumberland is already cool enough.
I am glad that you spoke
freely with Brother Hilton [See letters of October 7, 1773 and August 18, 1775;
and to Erskine, April 24, 1765]. That would cause immense damage; humanly
speaking, it would be the biggest stumble ever seen in Edinburgh. And there
really doesn't need to be any more as long as the good Dr. Erskine lives.
But the preachers in
Scotland have never yet received their wages—I mean, not from Scotland. We are
obliged to provide them every year.
English we can certainly
cure. We have the team in our own hands. So fix them or finish them off. Let
them gather in the band and in class, wherever you are appointed or nowhere.
Stand your ground. Kill or cure.... [34]
I
conceived him as not the best, though not the worst, of our preachers
I was pleasantly surprised
at the account they gave of him, for I conceived him to be not the best, though
not the worst, of our preachers
For
Christopher Hopper
ROTHERHAM, July 25, 1774.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- It was
not two, three, or a few insignificant people who wanted Billy Hunter to stay
another year in York, but the stewards, the leaders, and the most important
people, both in terms of grace and understanding. I was pleasantly surprised at
the report they gave of him, for I conceived him to be not the best, though not
the worst, of our preachers.
See that Brother Hudson
brings all the bills. You do not remember the last Conference, when I was
scrupulous about him staying another year in Bristol, Jo. Pawson flatly refused
to travel. So I suppose he would do it now, if he wasn't in Leeds. 'And what
should I lose by this?' Nothing. But he may lose more than he ever would.--I
am, with love to Sister Hopper,
Your affectionate friend
and brother. [35]
To Mr. Hopper, at the
Orphan Home,
Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
A company of poor gentlemen
We are really a company of poor gentlemen.
But we have food, clothes and satisfaction
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, December 3, 1774.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- The case
of the Liverpool house has intrigued us all. But I know you have a little
common sense. Therefore, I give carte blanche. Solve it as you want, and I'll
take it.
I do not know of any
married preacher who has been sent from Liverpool to the North of Ireland. I
suppose Brother Sweeny is in the South; but upon this express condition that
neither his wife nor his children shall be any expense to us. But there will still
be families growing unless we ban marriage. Twenty-five years ago, ten pounds a
year was more than twelve now.
We
are really a company of poor gentlemen. But we have food, clothes and
satisfaction. "I am, with love to Sister Hopper, your affectionate friend
and brother. [36]
Such a good account of the
preaching houses in Liverpool and Warrington
I am glad to hear such a
good account of the preaching houses in Liverpool and Warrington. In fact, it
may be doubted whether we should contribute to those houses which are not
populated according to our plan
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, February 1, 1775.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- I am
glad to hear such a good report of the preaching houses in Liverpool and
Warrington. Indeed, it may be doubted whether we should contribute to those
houses which are not populated according to our plan.
It pleases God to continue
my strength so far, and my disorder causes me little disquiet. I hope to be in
Stroud (from Bristol), Monday, March 13; Tuesday, 14, in Worcester; Thursday
16, Birmingham; Friday, 17, Newcastle; Saturday, 18, Macclesfield; Monday, 20,
Manchester; Tuesday 21, Northwich. Whether it will be more advisable than to
follow Chester or Liverpool, I don't see clearly. Let's work while the day
is.--I am, with affection to Sister Hopper,
Your affectionate friend
and brother.
It certainly cannot be that
you find in the Newcastle house a bill which John Fenwick has sent me, and that
you must return it to him! [37]
Disorder is universal
throughout Britain and Ireland
Disorder is universal
throughout Britain and Ireland; but until then few died in London; then God
afflicts us slightly at first. It is well that the people now hear the rod and
the One who appointed it
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, December 26, 1775.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- I see no
possibility of accommodation. The point is: does the Supreme Branch have the
right to tax or not? If you do, you can't, you shouldn't give it up. But I say,
like Dean Tucker, 'Let them fall.' Cut off all other connection with them than
we have with Holland or Germany. Thirty-four million they have cost us to
support them since Queen Anne died. That they don't cost more. Let them have
the desire and sustain themselves.
You sent a book to Harry
Brooke; but I left two, the largest was not sent. If it gets lost, I need to
buy another one.
Disorder is universal
throughout Britain and Ireland; but until then few died in London; then God
afflicts us slightly at first. It is well for the people now to hear the rod
and the One who appointed it.--I am, with affection to Sister Hopper, your affectionate
friend and brother. [38]
Reasons to Expect God to
Interfere
The English, in general,
did not persecute the Gospel. So we still have reason to expect God to
intervene when all human help fails
For
Christopher Hopper
LONDON, February 7, 1776.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- A sin is
to want to fill the measure. The English, in general, did not persecute the
Gospel. So we still have reason to expect God to intervene when all human help
fails.
If we're going to build a
New Foundation this summer, I'm going to spend most of it in London, and I'm
just going to take a plane trip through England, looking at our friends in the
capitals. Maybe I'll play against Edinburgh or Aberdeen.
You have "received
only one book." Truth: but I wanted you to ask about the other, who is
much more valuable. It must be in Bolton or Liverpool. I am, with affection to
Sister Hopper.
Your affectionate friend
and brother. [39]
You did very well to write
to the Mayor
You did very well in
writing to the Mayor. I believe he won't burn his fingers again
For Christopher Hopper
EDINBURGH, May 28, 1776.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- You have
done very well in writing to the Mayor. I believe he won't burn his fingers
again.
I found one that I think
would serve Mrs. Wagner as a superior secant. But she's not willing to get
involved until she knows what she's expected to do. Message me for Newcastle.
Please tell Michael Fenwick
that I will be in Sheffield not on the 23rd, but on the 19th of July. "I
am, with affection to Sister Hopper,
Your affectionate friend
and brother.
To Mr. Hopper, in the
Preaching House,
In Liverpool. X Post. [40]
It's completely crazy
James Kershaw is completely crazy, more so
than John Reed has been. He prophesies that 'all Methodists must go to America
in the belly of a whale.' Take this as a specimen.
For Christopher Hopper
NEAR LONDON, FEBRUARY 1, 1777.
MY DEAR BROTHER,--James Kershaw is completely
mad, more so than John Reed was. [See letters of March 3,1776
(for Mrs. Woodhouse) and February 15, 1777.] He prophesies that 'all
Methodists must go to America in the belly of a whale.' Take this as a
specimen.
We will not begin our construction here
before April. I will probably make a short trip (to Leeds, Newcastle or Dublin)
once a month; but I must never be away for too long. [See letter of February
14.] How we will get the money I don't know. But 'the earth is the Lord's and
his fulness'.—I am
Your affectionate friend and brother.
To Mr. Hopper, in the Preaching House,
In Manchester. [41]
Construction of the foundation of the new
chapel
Our friends are about building the foundation
of the new chapel; so that in a few days I should return to London. Then I will
consider how much time I can book from there and adjust my spring and summer
trips accordingly
For
Christopher Hopper
BRISTOL, March 16, 1777.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- Fools
are accustomed to have a great deal of cunning; and this often confuses the
cause, so that we can sometimes scarcely tell whether the man is more foolish
or a scoundrel.
Precious in the sight of
the Lord is the death of His saints; and very well is usually done at their
funerals. You do well to improve all these opportunities.
Our friends are about
building the foundation of the new chapel; so that in a few days I should
return to London. Then I will consider how much time I can set aside from
there, and adjust my spring and summer trips accordingly.--I am, with affection
to Sister Hopper, [42]
My time is short
My time is short; So I
publish as much as I can at once, if maybe I can live to finish it. All these
things I have maturely weighed
For Christopher Hopper
LONDON, October 18, 1777.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- I
believe what you say about John Hilton [Benson says October 7 (Life
manuscript, i. 788): 'I wrote a very close letter to Mr. Hilton three weeks
ago; but I have had no reply. I wish our friendship wasn't over.' See letter of
August 6.] It's true; so I prevented the furious from throwing themselves at
him at the Conference.
There is no divine
visitation that is likely to have so general an influence on sinners as an
earthquake. The rich cannot protect themselves from this any more than the
poor. So I often thought that this would not be an unwanted event.
I run out of false colors.
Scriptural, Christian, etc., are all ambiguous words. I mean, a magazine that
he wrote purposely to defend Universal Redemption. Other magazines offer forty
pages for sixpence; That is eighty to one shilling. [See previous letter.] My
time is short; So I publish as much as I can at once, if maybe I can live to
finish it. All these things I have maturely weighed.
I have said several times
that there are important reasons why no preacher should be a healer. Flatterers
are broad on this issue. "I am
Your affectionate friend
and brother. [43]
Until that happens,
everything else is off target
You send a second reply,
saying that you have been very diligent for many years; and that you were the
one who introduced plans between us. Very good; But you still don't send me any
plans, and until that happens, everything else is off target
For Christopher Hopper
NEAR LONDON, FEBRUARY 16,
1780.
MY DEAR BROTHER, - I do not
know whether there is any question of dispute between us, except whether you
should do as I wish or not. You are an assistant at the Colne circuit. I want
you to send me a plan of the circuit: send me an answer, but without the plan.
I write again: you send a second reply, saying that you have been very diligent
for many years; and that you were the one who introduced plans between us. Very
good; But you still don't send me any plans, and until that happens, everything
else is off target. [See letters of January 16 (to Lancelot Harrison) and
December 31.] - I'm
Your affectionate friend and brother.
Why wouldn't you write an
account of your life [Hopper wasted no time. His autobiography was published in
the Rminian Mag. from January to March 1781. See Wesley's Veterans, i. 107-74.]
Isaac Waldron, T. Lee, W.
Brammah, etc., were not 'strong and capable men.' When any of these get in the
way of easy circuits, speak up at that moment and do something.
Mr. Hopper, in the preaching house,
In Colne, Lancashire. [44]
Neither with decency nor prudence
I cannot, either with decency or prudence, go any
further. If his behavior is irreproachable in this lower position, over time he
can climb higher
For Christopher
Hopper
REDRUTH, August 27,
1785.
MY DEAR BROTHER, -
The most that can be done at present is to allow him to preach as a local
preacher [Hopper was now at Bolton.]; for I am not going to confront the whole
Conference reversing what they have determined. I cannot, either with decency
or prudence, go any further. If his behavior is irreproachable in this lower
position, in time he can rise higher. - I'm
Your affectionate
friend and brother.[45]
I have no opinion on this
point
I have no opinion on this
point. I can't determine anything about it. These calculations are far above,
out of my sight. I have only one thing to do: save my own soul and those who
listen to me
For
Christopher Hopper
NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, 3 June
1788.
MY DEAR BROTHER, -- I have
said nothing, less or more, in the Church at Bradford about the end of the
world, nor about my own opinion. What I said was that Bengelius had given this
as his opinion, not that the world would end then, but that the millennial
reign of Christ would begin in the year 1836. I have no opinion on this point.
I can't determine anything about it. These calculations are far above, out of
my sight. I have only one thing to do: save my own soul and those who listen to
me. -- I am, with affection to Sister Hopper,
With affection. [46]
[1] Overview of Google's AI Mode
[2] Overview of Google's AI Mode
[3]
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[4]
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[5]
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christopher_Hopper_(Methodist)
[6] Overview of Google's AI Mode
[7]
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[8]
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[9]
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[10]
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[11]
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[12]
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[13]
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[14]
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[15]
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[16]
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[17]
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[18]
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[19]
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[20]
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[21]
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[22] Google AI Overview
[23]
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[24]
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[25]
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[26]
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[27]
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[28]
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[29]
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[30]
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[31]
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[32]
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[33]
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[34]
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[35]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/
[36]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/
[37]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/
[38]
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[39]
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[40]
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[41]
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[42]
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[43]
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[44]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1780/
[45]
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[46]
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