James, who was known among his companions as "a lad o' pairts," rapidly acquired a position of pre-eminence among his associates. He almost immediately began preaching, and for four years continued to journey throughout the various parts of Devonshire. The effect of his labours was very great. When he began preaching the Bible Christians were twenty-two in number. At the end of four years they were numerous in many parts of Devonshire.
