_A._ By no means: we have made the trial in various places; and that for a considerable time. But all the seed has fallen as by the way-side: there is scarce any fruit of it remaining. _Q._ 7. But what particular inconveniencies do you observe, where societies are not formed? _A._ These among others; 1. The preachers cannot give proper instructions and exhortations to those that are convinced of sin: 2. They cannot watch over one another in love; nor, 3. Can the believers bear one another’s burdens, and build up each other in faith and holiness. _Q._ 8. Where should we endeavour to preach most? _A._ 1. Where we (Clergymen) are permitted to preach in a church; 2. Where there is the greatest number of quiet and willing hearers; 3. Where there is most fruit. _Q._ 9. Is field-preaching then unlawful? _A._ We conceive not. We do not know that it is contrary to any law either of God or man. _Q._ 10. Have we not used it too sparingly? _A._ It seems we have: 1. Because our call is, To save that which is lost. Now we cannot expect such to seek _us_. Therefore we should go and seek _them_. 2. Because we are particularly called, by _going into the highways and hedges_ (which none else will) _to compel them to come in_. 3. Because that reason against it is not good. “The house will hold all that come.” The house may hold all that come to the house, but not all that _would come_ to the field. The greatest hindrances to this you are to expect from the rich, or cowardly, or lazy _Methodists_. But regard them not, neither stewards, leaders, nor people. Whenever the weather will permit, go out in God’s name into the most public places, and call all to _repent, and believe the gospel_; every Sunday in particular: especially in the old societies, least they settle upon their lees. _Q._ 11. Ought we not diligently to observe, in what places God is pleased at any time to pour out his Spirit more abundantly? _A._ We ought, and at that time to send more labourers than usual into that part of the harvest. _Q._ 12. What is a sufficient call to a new place? _A._ 1. An invitation from a serious man, fearing God, who has an house to receive us: 2. A probability of doing more good by going thither, than by staying longer where we are. _Q._ 13. How often shall we permit strangers to be present, at the meeting of the society? _A._ Let every other meeting of the society, in every place, be strictly private; no one stranger being admitted, on any account or pretence whatsoever. On the other nights we may admit them with caution; but not the same persons above twice or thrice. In order to this, see that all in every place shew their tickets before they come in. If the stewards and leaders are not exact and impartial herein, employ others who have more resolution. _Q._ 14. May a relapser into gross sin, confessing his fault, be re-admitted into the society? _A._ Not as a member, till after three months: but he may be permitted to stay as a stranger.