“London, December 20, 1764.
“Gentlemen,—Both my brother and I, and all who have any connection with us, are extremely sensible of our obligations to you, for the civility which you have shown us on all occasions; and we cannot but feel ourselves deeply interested in whatever we apprehend, in any degree, to concern your honour, or the general good and prosperity of the city of Bristol. This occasions my giving you the present trouble, which, whether it has any further effect or no, you will please to receive as a testimony of the high regard which we shall ever retain for you.
“The endeavours lately used to procure subscriptions for building a new playhouse, in Bristol, have given us not a little concern; and that on various accounts: not barely as most of the present stage entertainments sap the foundation of all religion, as they naturally tend to efface all traces of piety and seriousness out of the minds of men; but as they are peculiarly hurtful to a trading city; giving a wrong turn to youth especially, gay, trifling, and directly opposite to the spirit of industry and close application to business; and as drinking and debauchery of every kind are constant attendants on these entertainments, with indolence, effeminacy, and idleness, which affect trade in a high degree.
“It was on these very considerations, that the corporation of Nottingham lately withstood all solicitations, and absolutely forbade the building of a new theatre there; and I doubt not but thousands will reap the benefit of their wise and generous resolution.
“It does not become me, gentlemen, to press anything upon you; but I could not avoid saying thus much, both in behalf of myself and all my friends. Wishing you the continuance and increase of every blessing,
“I remain, gentlemen, your obliged and obedient servant,
“John Wesley.”[591]
Before leaving Bristol, another of Wesley’s papers may be inserted here, for, though without date, it seems to have been written about the year 1764. It is, in point of fact, a pastoral address, and one of the first that Methodism ever issued. The reader will perceive, that it refers to bribery, smuggling, sacraments, books, class-meetings, and connexional debts.
“To the Societies at Bristol.
“My dear Brethren,—I was much comforted among you when I was with you last; finding my labour had not been in vain. Many of you I found rejoicing in God your Saviour, walking in the light of His countenance, and studying to have a conscience void of offence towards God and man. In order to assist you therein, suffer me to remind you of a few things, which, I think, are of no small concern, in order to your retaining the life of faith, and the testimony of a good conscience towards God.