9 April 1742 – 15 April 1742

We had the first watch night in London. We commonly choose for this solemn service the Friday night nearest the full moon, either before or after, that those of the congregation who live at a distance may have light to their several homes. The service begins at half an hour past eight and continues till a little after midnight. We have often found a peculiar blessing at these seasons. There is generally a deep awe upon the congregation, perhaps in some measure owing to the silence of the night, particularly in singing the hymn with which we commonly conclude: Hearken to the solemn voice, The awful midnight cry! Waiting souls, rejoice, rejoice, And feel the Bridegroom nigh.