Newcastle and Whiteclay Creek, Pennsylvania
Friday, November 21, Got here with some little difficulty about midnight. Preached in the morning in the courthouse. Observed some few affected, and some few scoffing. Met dear Mr. Charles Tennent. Went with him to Whiteclay Creek. As we passed along, Mr. A—n, the Presbyterian minister who opposed me last spring at Fork's Manor, gave us the meeting. Thinking he intended to go by, I did not stop, only pulled off my hat. He turning about said, What, will you not shake hands? I gave him my hand. He then asked me to have a conference, as he desired when last at Fork's Manor. I told him, "Since he had begun by sending the queries in public, I was resolved to decline all private conversation." This, as I found afterwards, highly offended him. Two or three more of his associates were at Whiteclay Creek. And God was pleased to appear for me in an extraordinary manner. There were many thousands waiting to hear the Word. I have not seen a more lovely sight. I sang the 23rd Psalm, and these words gave my soul unspeakable comfort.
In presence of my spiteful foes, He does my table spread.
The Lord Jesus assisted me in preaching. The melting soon began, and the power increased more and more till the greatest part of the congregation was exceedingly moved. Several cried out in different parts, and others were to be seen wringing their hands, and weeping bitterly. The stir was ten times greater than when I was here last. After sermon, I went about three miles, and lay at Mr. Charles Tennent's house, who has lately married a young lady whom God was pleased to awaken by my ministry. Here I had sweet conversation with Mr. Blair, and Mr. Craighead, but being taken very ill, I was obliged to retire to rest. Blessed be God, there is a time coming, when all those interruptions shall be done away.
O! may I worthy prove to see your saints in full prosperity, That I the joyful choir may join, And count your people's triumphs mine.
