AT WORK TO THE LAST
                                     From the Diary of John Wesley

Friday, June 28th, 1782. ¡XI have entered into my eightieth year; but, blessed be God, my time is not "labour and sorrow." I thud no more pain or bodily infirmities than at five and twenty. This I impute: First, to the power of God, fitting me for what He calls me to. Secondly, to my still travelling four or five thousand miles a year. Thirdly, to my sleeping, night or day, whenever I want it. Fourthly, to my rising at a set hour; and, lastly, to my constant preaching, particularly in the morning.

Saturday, June 28th, 1783. ¡XI have this day lived fourscore years; and, by the mercy of God, my eyes are not waxed dim; and what little strength of body or mind I had thirty years since, just the same I have now. God grant I may never live to be useless! Rather may I¡X

My body with my charge lay down,

And cease at once to work and live.

Friday, January 1st, 1790. ¡XI am now an old man, decayed from head to foot; my eyes are dim; my right hand shakes much; my mouth is hot and dry every morning; I have a lingering fever almost every day; my motion is weak and slow. However, blessed be God, I do not slack my labour: I can preach and write still.

Friday, March 26th, 1790. ¡XI have entered my eighty-eighth year. I finished my sermon on the Wedding Garment; perhaps, the last that I shall write. My eyes are now waxed dim; my natural force is abating. However, while I can, I would fain do a little for God before I drop into the dust.

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