The Captains in
Wesley's Life and the Methodist Movement
Odilon Massolar Chaves
Copyright © 2026,
Odilon Massolar Chaves
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Cover:https://www.umc.org/en/content/unsung-heroes-of-methodism-thomas-webb
Odilon Massolar
Chaves is a retired Methodist pastor, with a doctorate 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
· The
captains in Wesley's life
· Who was
Captain Richard Williams
· Captain
Foy's suggestion
· Why we should trust the Captain of our salvation
· He is a man of fire, and the power of God constantly accompanies his
word
· Remember the Captain of your salvation
· You honor
me too much
· I believe it will be published in one of the following magazines
· I think the lines about Slavery will do well
· I believe we can count on Captain over America
· It's time to embark for America
· Peace and victory over sin are essential to faith in the Captain of our
salvation
· Captain Webb was not sent to you as to the unawakened world
· Captain James Whitefield, master of a ship
· We have captains of our warships who don't swear at all
· I am glad to hear about the present prosperity of God's work among you
· Captain Webb's Plan to Help Her Majesty
· You did right by Captain Colmer
· You send me a pleasant account of God's work in Cornwall
· Tell
Captain Rd. Williams
· The captain did not think it advisable to set sail
· Supporting multiple accusations against John Wesley
· Only a few could think that silence is proof of guilt
· How many soldiers can reasonably expect to recruit from among the
Methodists
Introduction
"The Captains in
Wesley's Life and the Methodist Movement" is a 38-page book based
especially on Wesley's letters.
It is not simply a
matter of being captains. Some were instrumental in the Methodist Movement, as
the titles below show. In particular,
Wesley highlights the "captain of our salvation":
·
The captain,
commander of the ship that took Wesley to Georgia
·
The Captain Who
Chased and Drove Wesley Out of Georgia
· The Captain of our salvation
·
The Captain Who Gave
Birth to the Methodist Class Meetings
·
The captain, who was an ardent preacher and was
instrumental in the expansion of Methodism in America.
·
Captain
Forbes, whose wife attended Methodism
·
The
captain, brother of George Whitefield
· Captain Jonathan Scott, the preacher who was an authentic Methodist
·
The
captain who was a preacher, fought against slavery
and helped establish Methodist societies
A book that shows Wesley's relationship with the military, especially
with the captains in the Methodist Movement.
The Author
The captains in
Wesley's life
We highlight some captains with whom Wesley deals:
The captain,
commander of the ship that took Wesley to Georgia
Wesley recorded in his diary, Friday, January 23, 1735, when they were
sailing to America:
"In the evening another storm began. In the morning it increased so
much that the captain was forced to leave the helm of the ship. I could say
nothing but "How is it that thou hast not faith?" as I was still
unwilling to die. About one o'clock in the afternoon, almost as soon as I came
out of the great cabin door, the wave did not break as usual, but came with a
high and slippery tide over the side of the vessel. I was tossed aloft, and for
a moment was so dazed that I could scarcely lift my head, before the sea
returned it dead. But, thank God, I had no injury at all. About midnight the
storm ceased." [1]
The Captain Who Chased and Drove Wesley
Out of Georgia
Captain Robert Williams was a Georgia farmer who
resented Wesley's stance on slavery.
He made accusations against Wesley, which forced
him to flee Savannah.
"The Prosecution: Captain Robert Williams, a farmer and landowner in Georgia who already detested Wesley for his stances against slavery, recorded a defamatory and formal affidavit (a sworn statement) against the clergyman. He accused Wesley of misconduct and of trying to pursue Sophia romantically.
The Outcome: This legal and public persecution in Georgia is what forced John Wesley to secretly flee back to England in 1737. To defend himself against the accusations pamphleted by Captain Robert Williams on the streets, Wesley published excerpts from his own official journal (Journal) to prove his innocence. [2]
To Captain Robert Williams, October 17, 1742, Wesley said, "But it would not be necessary first for Mr. Christie and you to meet and agree on your story, or else he might make more mistakes than you would like, and refute you instead of me. That is undeniable what he has done now, and that in the most relevant parts of his testimony." [3]
The Captain of our salvation
To
Wesley, Jesus was our Captain of salvation.
"In
the evening I went very grudgingly to a society, in Aldersgate Street, where
the person was reading Luther's preface to the Epistle to the Romans. About a
quarter to nine, while he was describing the changes which God works in the
heart, by faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt that I had
trusted in Christ—Christ alone, for salvation; and an assurance was given me
that he had taken upon my sins, even my own, and had saved me from the law of
sin and death. I began to pray with all my might for those who had, in a most
special manner, spitefully used and persecuted me. Then I openly testified to
all what I now, for the first time, felt in my heart. But not long before the
enemy had suggested, "This cannot be faith; for where is thy joy?" I
was then taught that peace and victory over sin were essential to faith in the
Captain of our salvation; but as to the impartation of joy, which usually
belongs to its beginning, especially in those who have deeply lamented, God
sometimes withholds it, according to the deliberations of his own will." [4]
The Captain Who Gave
Birth to the Methodist Class Meetings
Captain Foy
was a crucial figure in the organizational history of Methodism, famous for
unknowingly proposing the structure that gave rise to the "Class
Meetings," the fundamental cell of the movement founded by John Wesley.
In February
1742, in Bristol, the local Methodists faced a large financial debt arising
from the construction of The New Room chapel. During a meeting to
discuss how to pay this bill, Captain Foy stood up and suggested that each
member of the society contribute a penny a week until the debt was paid. [5]
In a letter to Vicar Vincent
Perronet, a friend of Wesley and Methodism, on December 25, 1748, Wesley
commented on how someone (Captain Foy) had given the suggestion that an
important step in the Methodist organization was taken. [6]
The captain, who was an ardent
preacher and was instrumental in the expansion of Methodism in America
Captain
Webb was a Methodist preacher, who had lost an eye in battle and who preached
with a sword from the pulpit. Wesley called him a "man of fire."
To Mrs. Bennis, on November 3,
1772, Wesley said, "I should have been glad if you had persuaded Captain
Webb to visit me at Limerick: he is a man of fire, and the power of God
constantly accompanies his word."
At Wesley's request,
Captain Webb assisted in the beginning of Methodism in New York and
Philadelphia.
To
George Shadford, in 1773, Wesley said, "The time has come to embark for
America. You must go down to Bristol, where you will meet Thomas Rankin,
Captain Webb, and his wife." [7]
Captain Webb was in great
demand. To his brother Charles, on December 15, 1772, Wesley said, "I
believe we can count on the Captain over America. He has stayed long enough
with you: send him to us." [8]
On October 24, 1779, Wesley wrote to the
Methodist Societies supporting a plan of Captain Webb's: "I cannot
but strongly approve of Captain Webb's plan to assist His Majesty in case of
actual invasion. The details he will explain to you himself. This may be of
more importance than it still appears." [9]
Captain
Forbes, whose wife attended Methodism
Captain Forbes' wife
attended the Methodist society.
To Mrs. Rogers, on May 28,
1788, Wesley said, "I hope that you have already discovered Mrs. Forbes
(Captain Forbes's wife), and that she is now more than almost convinced that
she is a Christian." [10]
The captain, brother of George Whitefield
Wesley speaks of his sudden death.
To Ebenezer Blackwell, on August 23, 1739, Wesley reported: "Captain James Whitefield, master of a ship, brother of George Whitefield, died suddenly in February 1766 at the Countess of Huntingdon's house in Bath." [11]
Captain Jonathan Scott, the
preacher who was an authentic Methodist
Captain Jonathan Scott (1735–1807) was known
as an ardent orator. He "served for 17 years in the 7th Regiment of
Dragoons of the British Army, attaining the rank of lieutenant captain.
He was converted after hearing the preaching of prominent evangelical clergyman William Romaine (a strong ally of Selina Hastings, the Countess of Huntingdon, a central figure in Calvinist Methodism). Soon after his conversion, Scott began preaching to his own soldiers, gathering them in his quarters for prayer and Bible study.
As his regiment moved around England, he preached wherever he was—both indoors and outdoors, sometimes facing strong opposition. Because of his zeal and passionate style, he gained widespread fame as an "arrant methodist."
Although Scott orbited more of the Calvinist arm of Methodism (linked to George Whitefield and the Countess of Huntingdon), he maintained a relationship of deep cooperation with John Wesley. Historical letters record Scott requesting Wesley to send itinerant preachers to support the evangelism work he was doing in cities like Northampton.[12]
The
captain who was a preacher, fought against slavery and helped establish
Methodist societies
In addition to serving as a local preacher in Cornwall, he assisted in the logistics of regional Methodist circuits. He was a man of faith who helped establish Methodist societies.
Captain Williams had a strong stance against slavery.
On November 9, 1783, Wesley wrote to him: "I think the speeches about Slavery will do well! They are at once sensible and poetic." [13]
Who was
Captain Richard Williams
Captain Richard
Williams (of Poldice, Cornwall) was a naval officer and an early
dedicated supporter of the Methodist movement in England.
"The relationship with Wesley: He
maintained an active correspondence with John Wesley for decades. In Wesley's
surviving letters sent to him (written between the decades 1756 and 1785),
Wesley refers to him affectionately as "My dear brother" and
praises his zeal in preaching and expanding God's work in regions such as
Plymouth Dock and Cornwall. He was a man of faith who helped establish the
local Methodist societies."
Abolitionist Struggle: Captain Williams had a strong stand against slavery. In one of his historical iterations, he sent poems and lines of reflection on the horrors of slavery to John Wesley, who praised them as "sensible and poetic" and helped forward them for publication in a Bristol newspaper. This aligned perfectly with Wesley's own fervent abolitionist engagement." [14]
To Captain Richard
Williams, on November 9, 1783, Wesley said: "I think the lines about
Slavery will do well! They are at once sensible and poetic." [15]
Support for the Methodist Itinerater: In addition to acting as a local preacher in the Truro (Cornwall) area, he assisted in the logistics of regional Methodist circuits. Historical documents from Wesley's letters show the leader directing local preachers to align their routes and travel plans with Captain William." [16]
Captain Foy's
suggestion
I was conversing with several
members of the Society at Bristol about the means of paying the debts there,
when one [Captain Foy, on 15 February, 1742. See Diary, ii. 528; W.H.S. III.
64-5.] stood up and said, 'Let each member of the Society give a penny a week
until all are paid.'
"Ten years after having had the experience
of the warmed heart, Wesley wrote on December 25, 1748 to the vicar Vincent
Perronet to explain about the emergence of the Methodist organization."
When the necessities arose due to the growth of
Methodism, Wesley found a solution: "3. At length, while we were thinking
of something else, we found a method by which we have had reason to bless God
ever since. I was conversing with several members of the Society at Bristol
about the means of paying the debts there, when one [Captain Foy, on 15
February, 1742. See Diary, ii. 528; W.H.S. III. 64-5.] stood up and said, 'Let
each member of the Society give a penny a week until all are paid.'[17]
Note: "Wesley
immediately realized that Captain Foy's practical idea solved his biggest
structural problem: the pastoral care and mutual accountability of a movement
that was growing too fast. From then on, weekly class meetings became a
mandatory rule for every Methodist."[18]
Why we should trust
the Captain of our salvation
While preaching, "Trust ye
in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock," and showing
the reason why we should trust in the Captain of our salvation, one among the
hearers cried out, "Who was your captain the other day, when you depended
on yourself?
12/7/1741 – Monday. While preaching, "Trust
in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock," and showing
the reason why we should trust in the Captain of our salvation, someone among
the hearers cried out, "Who was your captain the other day, when you
depended on yourself? I know the man who saw you when you were sick." This
wise story, it seems, has been diligently spread and cordially believed by many
in Bristol. I asked them to make room for the man to approach. But the moment
he saw the door open, he ran out at full speed, not to look back. [19]
He is a man of fire,
and the power of God constantly accompanies his word
I would have been
glad if you had persuaded Captain Webb to visit me in Limerick: he is a man of
fire, and the power of God constantly accompanies his word
For Ms. Bennis
COLCHESTER, November
3, 1772.
DEAR SISTER,-- Your
time has been well spent at Waterford. Many, I doubt not, remember this with
gratitude. But why this lack of discipline in Limerick? Whenever this is
abandoned, everything turns into confusion: see that it is restored at once.
I should have been
glad if you had persuaded Captain Webb to visit me in Limerick: he is a man of
fire, and the power of God constantly accompanies his word.
Poor Sister Harrison!
I did not expect her to die in triumph. But we must leave her to her own
Master. It seems to me that Mrs. Dawson gains ground. And I love her two lovely
children. At every opportunity, it would be well to talk a little with all three.
Talk a little to as
many people as possible; go among them, to their homes; talk with love, and
discord will disappear. It is hardly possible to comfort or strengthen others
without some comfort returning to your own breast.
It is highly probable
that I shall visit Ireland in the spring, though I am almost being an
incapacitated soldier. I am forbidden to walk, and am obliged to travel chiefly
by carriage. [See the August 31 letter to her.]
Whom do you think fit
to succeed the present preachers at Limerick and Waterford [Wrigley was at
Waterford; John 2 Edward Slater was at Limerick. Jonathan Hern, of Cork,
succeeded him. James Glassbrook, Francis Murray, and Michael M'Donald
followed.]
You need to awaken
the gift of God that is in you. The light will arise. Why not now? The Lord is
not around—I am, my dear sister,
Your affectionate
brother. [20]
Remember the Captain of your
salvation
Begin, soldier of Christ, son of
God! Walk worthy of the vocation by which you are called! Remember faith!
Remember the Captain of your salvation! Fight! Conquer! Die,--and live forever
For Ms. Ryan
DUBLIN, April 4, 1758.
MY DEAR SISTER,-- Oh, if I could be of use to
you! I long to help you move forward. I want you to understand a mere lamp of
light, always shining with light from above! I want you to be filled with
divine knowledge and wisdom, like Jordan at harvest time. I want your words to
be full of grace, poured out like precious ointment. I want your every work to
bear the seal of God, to be a sacrifice of a sweet savor; without any weak
part, earthly or human; All holy, all divine. The great God, your Father and His
Love, bring you into this very thing! Begin, soldier of Christ, son of God!
Walk worthy of the calling by which you are called! Remember faith! Remember
the Captain of your salvation! Fight! Conquer! Die,--and live forever--I am
His, etc. [21]
You honor me too much
You honor me too much. But
I don't think you praise; for you speak with sincerity of heart. But love tends
to make us a little blind, so that we cannot see clearly
To Captain Richard Williams
LONDON, November 16. 1756.
MY DEAR BROTHER, -- You honor me too much.
But I do not think you commend; for you speak with sincerity of heart. But love
tends to make us a little blind, so that we cannot see clearly. Yet I am
grateful to you for your good intention. I wish you to be more and more zealous
for God; and I am, dear Richard.
Your affectionate brother.
To Captain R. Williams, [See letter of
November 9, 1783.] [22]
I believe it will be
published in one of the following magazines
And whatever they agree is
correct, I publish as soon as possible.
It seems to me that the
'Address to the Watchman' may be of general utility. I believe it will be
published in one of the following magazines.
To Captain Richard Williams
LONDON, December 30, 1778.
MY DEAR BROTHER, - The January Magazine was
full before yours arrived. As I do not mind depending only on myself, I
generally submit all the verses that are sent to me to the judgment of my
brother and the other preachers who are with me. And whatever they agree to be
correct, I publish as soon as possible.
It seems to me that the 'Address to the
Watchman' may be of general utility. I believe it will be published in one of
the following magazines. [The letter on Duels was published in March. See
Arminian Mag., 1779, pp. 146-8; and letters of September 13, 1774 (to him) and
February 25, 1783 (to Joseph Taylor).] I am
Your affectionate brother.
To Capthin R. Williams, Crarick, near
Redruth. [23]
I think
the lines about Slavery will do well
To Captain Richard Williams
LONDON, November 9, 1783.
MY DEAR BROTHER, -- I know the talents which
God has lent me, and I dare not bury any of them in the earth. I am indebted to
the learned as well as to the unlearned. And in the magazine I apply myself to
both; especially, indeed, to the ignorant, because these are the far greater
number. And yet I keep my original points in mind, -- He died for all to save
them from all sin.
I think the lines about Slavery will do well!
[See the February 25 letters to Taylor and December 10.] They are both sensible
and poetic. -- I am, dear Richard,
Your affectionate brother.
To Captain Richa. Williams, in Poldice, [24]
Near Truro, Cornwall. [25]
I
believe we can count on Captain over America
I believe we can count on Captain [Webb. See letter of November.] about
America. He has stayed long enough with you: send him to us
To your
brother Charles
SHOREHAM, December 15, 1772.
DEAR
BROTHER,--I have scarcely had a day in London, except Sundays and visiting
hours for classes. Dr. Ford has never come near me, nor very near Billy Ley. I
am afraid to evade, erupit [In Cicero's Catilinam, ii. II: 'He has disappeared,
he has escaped' (Cicero on Catiline)]. I have written to Mr. Fletcher to-day.
When Mr. Hill is going to fall upon me next, Mr. Fletcher will have a little
time to breathe, and probably a little longer while Mr. Hill digests my answer;
for whom I think together we shall find work for some time.
Why, you
will not stand shoulder to shoulder, or you can say something about the Church;
But two are better than m. If we live till August, stay by my side, and we will
close the matter [See letter of May 30, 1773].
I often
cry out, Vitae me redde priori! [Epistles of Horace, I. vii. 95: 'Give me back
my former life.'] Let me be again an Oxford Methodist! I am often in doubt
whether it would not be better for me to take up all my Oxford rules, great and
small. So I walked closely with God and redeemed time. But what have I done
these thirty years
My love
to all. Goodbye! [26]
It's
time to embark for America
Let you choose, George, on
the great American continent
To George Shadford
[End of
March] 1773.
DEAR
GEORGE,-- The time has come to embark for America. You must descend to Bristol,
where you will meet Thomas Rankin, Captain Webb, and his wife.
I have
let you choose, George, on the great American continent. Publish your message
under the open sun and do all the good you can. "I am, dear George,
With
affection. [27]
Peace and victory over sin are
essential to faith in the Captain of our salvation
I was then taught that peace and
victory over sin are essential to faith in the Captain of our salvation; but
that as to the raptures of joy which generally accompany their beginning,
especially in those who have deeply mourned, God sometimes bestows and
sometimes withholds, according to the purposes of His own will
Wesley's warming heart
experience according to John Whitehead:
"In the evening I was very reluctant to a
meeting in Aldersgate Street, where someone was reading Luther's preface to the
Epistle to the Romans. About eight-forty-five, as he described the change which
God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely
warmed. I felt that I trusted in Christ—in Christ alone—for salvation; and I
received the assurance that He had taken away my sins, even mine, and delivered
me from the law of sin and death.
"I began to pray with all my earnestness
for those who had especially treated me with contempt and persecuted me. Then I
openly testified to all present what I felt for the first time in my heart. But
it was not long before the enemy suggested, 'This cannot be faith, for where is
thy joy?'" "I was then taught that peace and victory over sin are
essential to faith in the Captain of our salvation; but that as to the raptures
of joy which usually accompany their beginning—especially in those who have
deeply mourned—God sometimes bestows and sometimes withholds them, according to
the purposes of His own will." [28]
Captain Webb was not sent to you as to the unawakened world
Captain Webb was not sent
to you as to the unawakened world. And perhaps he can do Rowland Hill good by
being much more popular than he is
To Mary Bishop
LONDON, January 12, 1773.
DEAR MISS BISHOP — I agree with you in your
judgment of poor Nancy Dodd. But I would give her (as we say) a chance at life.
Captain Webb was not sent to you as to the unawakened world. And perhaps he can
do Rowland Hill good by being much more popular than he is.
The Fourth Control did a great deal of good.
It confirmed many in fact. It calmed many who were undecided and convinced not
a few who simply fell into this strong delusion. But you must not think that
anything will convince a warm Calvinist—no, not an angel descending from
heaven.
In two or three hours I could teach you so
much grammar that you could advance without difficulty. 'True simplicity,' says
Fenelon, 'is that grace by which the soul is freed from all useless reflections
upon itself.' I add, 'and upon all other persons and things.' This is an
indescribable blessing; and it is the mere gift of God, not naturally attached
either to greatness or to little understanding. A single eye helps much in
this. Look for one thing, and you will be much less concerned with useless reasonings.--My
dear Miss Bishop. Bishop, your affectionate brother. [29]
Captain James Whitefield,
master of a ship
Captain James Whitefield,
master of a ship, brother of George Whitefield, died suddenly in February 1766
at the Countess of Huntingdon's house in Bath
To Ebenezer Blackwell
BRISTOL, August 23, 1739.
DEAR SIR, -- I have not had half an hour of
free time to write since I received yours of the 14th of the present day, in
which the note of 15 11s was attached.
The Captain's [Captain James Whitefield,
master of a ship, brother of George Whitefield, died suddenly in February, 1766
at the house of the Countess of Huntingdon at Bath.] to London, as he
possesses, was the happiest, so I believe it was the most useful he ever had.
His resolution has been somewhat shaken here; but now he seems more stable than
before. Satan has indeed desired to have us, that he may sift us like wheat.
But our Lord prayed for us; so that the faith of a few has failed. By far the
greater part of those who have been tempted have come out like gold out of the
fire.
It seems to me a clear proof that the power
of God is much with these people, for they are tempted in a manner seldom
common to men. No sooner does any of them begin to taste true liberty, they are
shaken both within and without. Satan's messengers surround them on every side.
Many are already driven from their homes by their parents or employers; many
expect it every day. But they count all these things as dung and rubbish, that
they may win Christ. Oh, that if His name be called upon us, let us have us so--I
am, dear sir,
Your affectionate friend and servant in
Christ.
To Mr. Blackwell, at Mr. Martin's house,
Banker, in Lombard Street, London. [30]
We have
captains of our warships who don't swear at all
Everyone
knows (captains and ordinary people alike) that swearing is not necessary; and
even now we have captains of our warships who swear nothing. The captain of the
ship ['The Samuel, Captain Percy' (Diary, i. 413).] of which I came from
America swore nothing; and never was the man better obeyed
To your niece Sarah Wesley
NEAR COWBRIDGE, AUGUST 18, 1790.
MY DEAR SALLY,-- I always lightly rebuke the
profane person or (worse still) the profane gentlemen; and many of them will
receive it in a civilized manner, if not with gratitude. Everyone knows (both
captains and common people) that swearing is not necessary; and even now we
have captains of our warships who swear nothing. The captain of the ship ['The
Samuel, Captain Percy' (Diary, i. 413).] of which I came from America swore
nothing; and never was the man better obeyed.
If I live to see London, I think I should
take him to Twicken-ham. Surely Mr. Galloway owes the world a true account of
the American revolution. The whole question is whether it should be published
during his lifetime.
What my brother says -
When the loss of friends was commanded to
know,
Next, pain and guilt are the worst diseases
below. [S. Wesley, J., on Dr. Gastrell.]
But that you didn't lead to the question. Not
even that--
Let each one his friendly helper provide,
And feel the care of his brother.
Perpetual joy is the temper of a Christian,
which is far enough from Stoicism. True Christians know that it is their duty
to maintain this, which in a sense is, in a certain sense, to rejoice forever.
I think Sammy and you should talk often and
freely. He can help you, and you can help him. I think he has a mind capable of
friendship, and I hope that if I live, I will get to know him more with him.
The gentleman you mentioned just visited me,
but he didn't stay, because I was with me. Tomorrow I hope to be in Bristol. --
I am, my dear Sally,
With all your affection. [31]
I am glad to hear about the
present prosperity of God's work among you
I am glad to hear of the
present prosperity of God's work among you. Now let each of you stir before the
Lord! And press your neighbor (friend or stranger) to run and grab the prize!
To Captain Richard Williams
BRISTOL, September 13, 1774.
MY DEAR BROTHER,-- I am glad to hear of the
present prosperity of God's work among you. Now let each of you stir before the
Lord! And press your neighbor (friend or stranger) to run and grab the prize!
Fifty square yards (allowing five per yard,
which is the smallest calculation) will contain twelve thousand five hundred
persons. But here they lay far beyond the edge of the well on all sides.
Things to come belong to the Lord. I know He
will do all right; and then I rest. As for the things I don't understand, I let
it be. Time will show.--I am
Your affectionate brother. [32]
Captain Webb's Plan to Help Her Majesty
To the Methodist
Societies
TO ALL OUR BROTHERS
WHO MAY BE RELEVANT
CITY ROAD, LONDON, 24
October 1779.
I cannot but strongly approve of Captain Webb's
plan to assist His Majesty in the event of an actual invasion. The details he
will explain to you himself. This may be of more importance than it still
appears. I commend the design and everything that promotes it to the blessing
of God; and I am, my dear brethren, [See Methodist Recorder, October 31, 1884,
for details of the design, signed 'L. Webb'; and letter of May 25, 1782 to
Captain Webb.]
Your affectionate brother. [33]
You did right by
Captain Colmer
You have done right
in regard to Captain Colmer [Wrigley was at Bradford (Wilts]. 'Brother Colmet'
is mentioned on 28 July 1783 (Journal, vi. 437d).]; But you must also apply, if
possible, to all his employers
To Francis Wrigley
SCARBOROUGH, June 20, 1784.
DEAR FRANCIS, - You have done right in regard to
Captain Colmer [Wrigley was at Bradford (Wilts). 'Brother Colmet' is mentioned
on July 28, 1783 (Diary, vi. 437d).]; But you should also apply, if possible,
to all his employers. I think he will soon realize that he has missed the mark.
I advise you to write to Mr. Shipman and ask if
he gave or offered [money] for Risgwy. I hope it is a
slander.
Please inform the minister of St. ..... I have
already tried this point at Westminster; and if he demands it from me, I will
try again.
If the preaching places can be [provided] during
his absence, James Thom [Thom was in Cornwall East, where Wrigley was appointed
at the next Conference. Probably he had already gone there, and they both
wished to attend the Conference in July at Leeds.] can go with you to the
Conference.
I am afraid that this kind of rupture under
which Mary Hooker works admits of no natural remedy. "I am, dear Francis,
Your affectionate friend and brother.
To Mr. Francis Wrigley. [34]
You send me a pleasant account of
God's work in Cornwall
To Captain Richard Williams
LONDON, December 10, 1783.
MY DEAR BROTHER, -- I directed your words to
the editor of the General Post. But both he and Mr. Pine put in their papers
only what they believe will promote the sale of the papers.
You send me a pleasant account of the work of
God in Cornwall, and in some places I do not know. I know nothing of Wheal
Rose, nor of the Copper House at Hayle: I hope Mr. Edwards will continue in the
same state he is now. I thought the Calvinists were determined to flee with the
Society in Kirly. But the Universal Lover of Souls is stronger than they! He
said, 'Hitherto shalt thou come, and no farther!' The work of God (Brother
Asbury sends me a word) goes on both steadily and rapidly in America. -- I am
Your affectionate brother.
To Captain Riehl. Williams, in Poldice,
Near Truro, Cornwall. [35]
Tell Captain Rd. Williams
Please tell Captain Rd. Williams [See letters of December 30, 1778 to
him.] that I have his letter and will consider it.
To Joseph Taylor
LONDON, February 25, 1783.
DEAR JOSEPH,-- I have no doubt that you can
gather enough in the circuit to enlarge the house in St. Ives. [See letters of
January 16, December 24, and November 9, 1783.] And the sooner you begin, the
better. Just see that you have good workmen and a good plan! Remember, take
enough and air enough; and don't do a messy, but a clean job.
When I have corrected my plan, I will send
you a copy. I left for Bristol on Sunday evening. -- I am, dear Joseph,
Your affectionate friend and brother.
P.S.--Please tell Captain Rd. Williams [See
the letters of December 30, 1778 to him.] that I have his letter, and I will
consider it. [36]
The captain did not think
it advisable to set sail
SO FAR God has helped us.
As the weather the night before had been extremely agitated, the captain did
not think it advisable to set sail; for which I regretted no regret
For Ms. Ferguson
HARWICH, June 12, 1783.
MY DEAR SISTER,—SO FAR GOD HAS HELPED US. As
the weather the night before was exceedingly agitated, the captain did not
think it advisable to set sail; for which I regretted not. We hope to set sail
this morning, for it seems that the storm is over; and we shall probably see
Helvoetsluys to-morrow. Sally and my other companions are in perfect health,
and all in good spirits; knowing that they are under His protection, whom the
winds and seas obey. -- I am, my dear sister,
Your affectionate brother. [37]
Supporting multiple
accusations against John Wesley
But you have cited common
fame to support several charges against John Wesley, a clerk: such as the fact
that he had seduced the common people settled there into idleness; that he was
too familiar with Miss Hopkey. Hopkey, and continued so until she married Mr.
William Williamson, of Savannah
To Captain Robert Williams
LONDON, August 3, 1742.
LORD, -- To prove that Robert Williams traded
a lot during the time he was in Savannah, that he built several considerable
buildings both in Savannah and in other parts of the colony, that he improved
very large tracts of land there, and was esteemed to have one of the principal
settlements in the colony, you did not even mention 'common fame.' So whoever
believes, let him believe.
But you have cited common fame to support
several charges against John Wesley, a clerk: such as the fact that he had
seduced the common people settled there into idleness; that he had too much
acquaintance with Miss Hopkey. Hopkey, and continued so until she married Mr.
William Williamson, of Savannah, a gentleman of considerable prominence there
(it is as remarkable a gentleman as Mr. William Williamson would marry her!);
that he sent her several letters and messages after the wedding, asking her to
meet him at unseasonable times and places, many of which (times or places) were
in his closet, of the said Wesley. One report was, you say, that these things
were so. Would anyone want better proof
I am not at all surprised that, in the face
of such evidence, you should advance such assertions. But I am really in what
you afterwards assert as being of your personal knowledge—namely, that two
Prosecution Proceedings were filed against John Wesley and sent to the Savannah
Grand Jury (Indictment Papers sent to a Grand Jury! What kind of proceeding is
this?), this deponent and the rest of the Grand Jury have UNANIMOUSLY agreed to
the said bills. How dare you, sir, assert so gross a falsehood Care neither for
your reputation nor for your soul You think there is no God to judge the earth
You know, you must know how much part of that Grand Jury absolutely disagreed
with every bill of the two presentations; and gave these reasons of their
disagreement to the Trustees, which neither you nor any man have yet chosen to
answer.
You affirm, further, that I have been
released on bail by two Savannah proprietors for my appearance at the next
Sessions. Here I accuse you of a second gross and deliberate lie. You know that
I have never been released on bail. If I were, name the men (Henry Lloyd is
ready to confront you) or produce a certified copy of the Court Record.
You assert, thirdly, that just before the
sessions began (i.e., in the following sessions, after the bills had been
found) I relinquished my bail. Here is yet another gross, willful, palpable
lie. For (1) no bail was ever granted; (2) I attended seven sessions
successively after these bills were found—that is, on Thursday, September 1, or
Friday, September 2; at three other sessions held in September and October; on
Thursday, November 22 [3]; and, lastly, on Thursday, November 22 [24]. Your
little falsehoods—like that I left the colony in the middle of the night, that
from Purrysburg to Charlestown is about two hundred miles (you should have said
about ninety), that I walked from there to Charlestown—I pass for not being
relevant.
Finally, it asserts that the judges
threatened to prosecute and imprison my bail for such desertion, and were in
utter confusion on the matter; but, by the interposition of this deposed and
several others in the name of said bail, and to prevent the destruction of
their several families, the judges suspended their acknowledgments during
pleasure.
This is altogether fitted to crown the whole.
Now, sir, as you know in your own soul that every word of it is pure invention,
without a grain of truth from beginning to end, what reparations can you make,
either to God, to me, or to the world? In what a terrible dilemma have you
brought yourself here! You must openly retract an open calumny, or you must
traverse good and bad to sustain it; until that God, to whom I appeal, sustains
His own cause, and drags you down from the earth. -- I am, sir,
Your friend. [38]
N.B. -- This was written on July 16, but I
did not have time to transcribe it before August 3, 1742. [Wesley left Bristol
on July 18, and found, on reaching London, that his mother was dying. The
letter was transcribed two days after her funeral. It was published in the
Weekly History of August 14, 1742.]
Only a few could think that
silence is proof of guilt
I would not tread on a
worm; therefore let it pass. My concern, sir, is for you. Not that I should pay
attention to such a composition; Only a few could think that silence is proof
of guilt
To Captain Robert Williams
BRISTOL, October 17, 1742
LORD, -- I have done you wrong indeed. I
believed that the letter which claimed to come from your humble servant had
been your own until I had read it half-over. But, on a narrower observation, I
soon acquired a knowledge both of the peculiar style and mode of thought of Mr.
Thomas Christie, who was once Savannah Recorder, but now dread (as before) to
go about in search of a piece of bread. I would not tread on a worm; therefore
let it pass. My concern, sir, is for you. Not that I should pay attention to such
a composition; only a few could think that silence is a proof of guilt.
That Mr. Wesley's answer is so indirect and
full of evasion as to justify, and does not refute his charge; that to leave
any doubt about his great and well-known improvements clearly demonstrates his
wickedness and insincerity; and that Mr. Christie has yet more recollections to
convince the world of how low and Jesuitical he is,—these, being mere
rhetorical flowers worthy of embellishing speech, need no particular answer.
But the fact (says his friend) in regard to
the charges is in a different light from what he tells, and, as to his relation
to persons who disagreed with the Grand Jury, it must be a story which he
himself created. That is easily known. The original document is kept in the
Office of the Trustees at Palace Yard. And Mr. Fallowfield, one of these
dissenters, you know, succeeded Mr. Causton when Mr. Christie and he were
removed from their posts.
It is a great pity that your friend did not
also make an affidavit on the following extraordinary details: that Mr. Wesley
continued to disturb public order; that he attempted to cause an insurrection
in the public Court while in session; that the Magistrates received several
petitions, making new charges against their protégé, and stating their plan to
leave the colony privately (an extremely private plan, of which five days
before I had warned by means of an advertisement set up in the market-place!);
that several persons took advantage of it to go with him with various sums of
money; that they manifested that they would violently oppose any person who
should attempt to capture them; and that, immediately afterwards, a large
reward was publicly awarded for the capture of Mr. Wesley. You cannot but admit
that these are a great improvement on their design, and would sound as good as
your own affidavit.
But it would not be necessary first for Mr.
Christie and you to meet and agree on his story, or else he might make more
mistakes than you would like, and refute you instead of me. This is undeniable
that he has now done, and that in the most relevant parts of his testimony.
For, first, you assert that Mr. Wesley, having been released on bail for the
hearing at the next session, just before the entrance of the sessions,
adjourned bail, and went away. No, says Mr. Christie, Mr. Wesley, after being
released on bail, appeared in the next Court. I wished that his trial should be
commenced, or that his honour should be set aside. Again, Mr. Christie states
categorically that Mr. John Coats, who was one of his bail bonds, went away
with Mr. Wesley, and never returned; while you state under oath that the judges
threatened to prosecute and imprison his bail, that they were in utter
confusion. But by the interposition of this deposed and several others, in the
name of the said bail, and to prevent the destruction of their respective
families, the judges suspended their acknowledgments during the pleasure.
Now, sir, feeling that these accounts are
utterly inconsistent, finding it impossible ever to reconcile them, let me ask
you a simple question, which I ask you to consider seriously. Is Thomas
Christie, Esq., a gross and notorious liar, one who neither fears God nor
regards man? Or Robert Williams, a merchant, is a vain and weak man, who,
having resigned without cause and deliberately, knows not how to retreat or
advance, how to retract his false testimony or how to defend it—I am, sir, [39]
How many soldiers can
reasonably expect to recruit from among the Methodists
Talk to Colonel Barr and
make the proposal as much as you can. Then you can better judge how many
soldiers you can reasonably expect to recruit from among the Methodists
For Captain Webb
SUNDERLAND, May 25, 1782.
MY DEAR BROTHER, -- Explain to our brethren,
wherever you go, your conversation with Colonel Barr, and make the proposal as
much as you can. Thus you will be able to judge better how many soldiers you
can reasonably expect to recruit from among the Methodists.
I would like you to tell Mr. Moore [The
preachers in Bristol in 1781 were John Pawson, John Murlin, and William Moore.
Alexander M'Nab had been Pawson's predecessor in 1779, and caused much trouble
in Bath. See letter of 18 January 1780.] I wish he would not talk to the
separatists in Bath. If he does, I shall see it as an open statement that he
does not respect me.
If twenty people will commit themselves to
Mr. Walker, [John Walker was now in Gloucester, and the next Conference 'give
up traveling.'] they can. But I have nothing more to do with him. I'm going to
give one more guinea, and that's it. -- I am
Your
affectionate brother. [40]
[1] Diary of John Wesley – "John
Wesley, the father of Methodism – 1735 -1791", São Paulo, SP, Angular
Editora, 2017
[2] Overview of Google's AI Mode
[3]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1742/
[4] Diary of John Wesley – "John
Wesley, the father of Methodism – 1735 -1791", São Paulo, SP, Angular
Editora, 2017
[5] Overview of Google's AI Mode
[6]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1748/
[7]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/
[8]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/
[9]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1779/
[10]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1788/
[11]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1739/
[12] Overview of Google's AI Mode
[13]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[14] Overview of Google's AI Mode
[15]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[16] Overview of Google's AI Mode
[17]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1748u/
[18] Overview of Google's AI Mode
[19]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[20]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/
[21]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1758/
[22]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-17546/
[23]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1778/
[24]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[25]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[26]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/
[27]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/
[28] The life of the Rev. John Wesley, M.A. by John Whitehead, 1793.
[29] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/
[30]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1739/
[31]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1790/
[32]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/
[33]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1779/
[34]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1784/
[35]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[36]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[37]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[38]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1742/
[39]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1742/
[40]
https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1782/
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