Diary entry 9 January 1709 

Die Dom. Went to Mr. Stretton’s meeting-place, but he not preaching, by reason of age and the extremity of the season, with Alderman Milner to the cathedral of St. Paul’s; by their confused reading (two at the same time, the gospel or lessons) singing prayers and organs, with the continued noise and hurry of persons, that through the novelty of the method (different from that at York Minster,) and the corruption of my wicked heart, it was very unprofitable to me ; the Lord pity and pardon! To hear Dr. Burgess, who, though he had some pleasant passages, which profane wits might sport with, yet preached very well. He preached above three hours, yet seemingly without weariness to himself or auditory. Called at Christ Church Hospital; stayed prayers and singing there; was pleased as well as surprised with the vast numbers of orphans there comfortably provided for, and the pious and prudent management thereof. Rest of evening at the inn, more unsuitably to the sabbath.