1787

1787. Preached at brother Moss’sfp1 on 2 Chronicles 15:12, 13, on the people’s entering into covenant with God.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 503

We rode near fifty miles on our way to Westmoreland; next day, by hard riding, we came to Pope’s, in Westmoreland; but I have not been more weary many times in my life.

Saturday and Sunday. Attended the quarterly meeting in the Northern Neck: there were many simple and loving testimonies delivered in the love feast.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 503

Rode through the snow to Fairfield.fp2 Here a Captain R. had turned the people out of the barn in which worship was held, and threatened to take brother Paup to jail if he did not show his authority for preaching; after all this vapouring of the valiant Captain, when the affair was brought before the court, Captain R—— found it convenient to ask pardon of our brother, although he sat upon the bench in his own cause:— so the matter ended. The Lord is at work in the Neck: more than one hundred have been added to the society since conference, who are a simple, loving, tender people.

We had a good time on Friday, the 12th; I spoke on Acts 26:18. I think God has spoken by me to S——s, a wild man—but the Lord can tame him. O Lord, speak for thyself!

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 503

We had a crowd at the Presbyterian meeting house in

Lancaster, to whom I delivered a very rough discourse: it was a close and searching time, and we had many communicants, both white and coloured.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 503

Preached at the church on the love of Christ. I find it hard to the flesh to ride fifteen or twenty miles every day, and perform the duties of my station; especially when indisposed and suffering therefrom the bodily pain incident thereto. Lord, give me patience! I feel uncommon affection for the people here.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 504

I had a crowd of careless sinners at Mrs. Agatha Ball’s,

who is a famous heroine for Christ. A lady came by craft and took her from her own house, and with tears, threats, and entreaties, urged her to desist from receiving the preachers, and Methodist preaching; but all in vain. She had felt the sting of death some years before, and was a most disconsolate soul; having now found the way, she would not depart therefrom.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 504

Rode ten miles to the ferry; but being unable to cross, I returned to Mrs. Ball’s: next morning I came away before day, and reached Shackelford’s.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 504

Preached at Douglas’sfp3—very low in body and spirit. Sunday and Monday, 21, 22. Cold times in religion in this circuit, (Gloucester), compared with the great times we have had in Lancaster.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 504

Came off early, and preached in Yorktown to some well- behaved women. Dined with Mr. Mitchell, and went on to dear brother Weldon’s,fp4 whose heart and hands were open.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 504

According to appointment, I attended at Williamsburg. I had about five from the country, and about fifteen hearers from the town, besides a few blacks and children. I spoke with freedom on, “They made light of it.” I returned through the rain, but hope to receive no harm. “He guards our souls, he keeps our breath,

Where thickest dangers come;

Go, and return; secure from death,

Till God commands thee home.”

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 504

We waited four hours in the rain before we could cross the ferry at old Jamestown; it was two hours after night when we came to brother Mooring’s.fp5

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 504

We held a quarterly meeting at Craney Island; the weather prevented many from attending. I was blessed in the company of the preachers.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 504

I enlarged on, “What shall the end be of them who obey

not the Gospel of God?” I observed to them that the Gospel had once been taken away from them; and that they ought to lay it seriously to heart, lest it should be the case again. We had some quickening in the sacrament and at the love feast. Thence I went through Portsmouth, and preached on, “Ye are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.”

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 505

Visited my old friend Fullford:fp6 he is feeble in

body, and not much at ease in his worldly possessions, yet happy in God. Brother Poythressfp7 frightened me with the idea of the Great Swamp, the east end of the Dismal; but I could not consent to ride sixty miles round; so we ventured through, and neither we nor our horses received any injury. Praise the Lord! Our passing unharmed through such dangers and unhealthy weather, feelingly assures me that I am kept by the immediate interposition of His providence. I preached in the new chapel. I hope not in vain. I am now surrounded with waters and hideous swamps, near the head of the Pasquotank River.

NORTH CAROLINA

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 505

Came on, wet and unwell, to Proby’s.

Went on to Nixonton,fp8 where I had many to hear, and was blessed in my own soul, and, I think, spoke to the cases of some of my audience.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 505

I had a long ride of nearly fifty miles to Gates county. We stopped at one Newby’s, one of the Society of Friends, who entertained us kindly. We reached sister Gipson’s,fp9 cold and weary. The poor flesh complains, but my soul enjoys peace and sweetness.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 505

We had a large congregation and an open time at Knotty Pine chapel. Here we have a little revival.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 505

I had about sixty people at Wicocon: I spoke as I felt, on Jer 13:11. I mourned over the people and left them.

I came to Hardy’s, where I spoke with some light on Matthew 22:5. I unhappily ran a splinter into my leg, which has alarmed me. I found we had to go twelve miles by water, and send the horses another way. O what a world of swamps, and rivers, and islands, we live in here! I met brother B—— and A——; two devoted young men; the former a native of Maryland, the latter of Virginia. At the desire of several of the brethren I preached at Washington,fp10 where many collected in the court house, whom I addressed on my favourite text, 1 Timothy 1:15. Three miles on the water, and riding three more on roads under the water (such is the inundated state of the country), made our jaunt unpleasant.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 505

We set off for Newbern. Stopped at Kemp’s Ferry, kept by Curtis, where we were kindly entertained gratis. I feel heaviness through labour and temptation, yet I am given up to God.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 506

I arrived at Newbern. I felt the power of death as I journeyed along. We rode round the town, and could get no certain information about preaching, brother Colefp11 being absent. We were at last taken in at Mr. Lathrop’s. The place and people were in such a state, that I judged, by my own feelings, it would be as well to leave them just as I found them—and so I did.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 506

It was rather a dry time at the love feast and sacrament. There was some life and melting while I enforced, “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all ye ends of the earth.” We then rode to H——’s on Island Creek. I went alone into the woods, and had sweet converse with God. At night we were poorly provided against the weather; the house was unfinished; and, to make matters worse, a horse kicked the door open, and I took a cold, and had the toothache, with a high fever.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 506

I had more hearers, and they were more attentive than

I expected: I trust it was a profitable time. Rode to brother Johnson’s— without the labour of slaves he manages to have abundance for man and beast.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 506

My horse is stiff, and almost foundered, and there is an appearance of a swelling on his head. I have always had hard struggles to get to Charleston. Lord, give me patience, and bear me up!

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 506

Crossed the main fork of Black River, and came through a wild country to Colonel R——’s: the colonel’s wife is a tender, devoted woman.

Thursday and Friday, 8, 9. Directed our course to the south: crossed Cape Fear, and reached Drowning Creek. Rested a day at W——’s, a kind people, but without religion.

SOUTH CAROLINA

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 506

Preached at Robinson’s new court house.fp12 Rode in the evening to M——’s. Crossed Little Pedee; stopped at Smith’s,fp13 ate a morsel, and came on to Buck Swamp.fp14

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 507

Preached at the new church at Sweet’sfp15: here I heard that Doctor Coke was in Charleston. Proceeded thence to the widow Port’s, where I had much ado to prevail on brother Hull to stay.fp16 We rode nearly fifty miles to get to Georgetown. Here the scene was greatly changed—almost the whole town came together to hear the word of the Lord.

We arrived at Charleston, and met Dr. Coke. Here we have already a spacious house prepared for us,fp17 and the congregations are crowded and solemn.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 507

I enlarged on, “I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness”; at night again on Isaiah 45:22. We held our conferencefp18 in this city.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 507

We exchanged sentiments on matters freely.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 507

The Doctor treated on the qualifications and duties of a deacon.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 507

Our conference ended.fp19

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 507

I left the city, and rode thirty miles, although my horse had been injured by over-feeding. Next day I rode forty miles through the rain, and begged a lodging with Doctor W.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 507

We came to Santee Ferry, and there was such an

overflowing of water in our route that we had to swim upon our horses several times: my horse performed so well that I was not wet much higher than my knees: that day we rode thirty miles, and the next day fifty miles, and came to Moore’s.fp20 Here we met with brother R. Swift, who had been near death, but then was recovering: we advised him to go with us for his life. The people here begin to feel, and yield to the power of truth.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 507

At Camden I preached on, “They made light of it”: thence we rode on to quarterly meeting, where I met with a multitude of people who were desperately wicked—but God hath wrought among them: we had little rest by day or night.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 508

Rode forty miles to preaching at Jackson’s; and then to brother Pace’s.fp21

NORTH CAROLINA

Saturday and Sunday, 7, 8. Attended Anson quarterly meeting, in North Carolina: the Doctor preached on, The love of Christ, and I on, “The grace of God that bringeth salvation”; sacrament followed.

From Saturday to Saturday. I have ridden about three hundred miles, and have preached only about half the time. O may the Lord seal and water his own word, that all this toil of man and beast be not in vain!

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 508

The Doctor and myself preached to a few simple people at W.’s, I hope not in vain. At our next meeting we had many hearers. We have scarcely time to eat or sleep.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 508

I preached at Salisbury. Afterward rode to Huggins’s, where we had many hearers, and a melting among the people. Good Friday, 13. I was much led out at Caton’s. Thence to M’Knight’s chapel,fp22 where we found a living people.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 508

We hasted to C——y church, where we had many people: after riding twenty-two miles, we had another meeting about six o’clock; and about midnight got to bed.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 508

Rose about six o’clock, and went to Newman’s church,fp23 where the Doctor and myself both preached: the people were rather wild, and we were unwell. I came to Arnat’s about eight o’clock, having ridden forty miles: the Doctor went by Dick’s ferry, and did not get in until near midnight.

VIRGINIA

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 508

Rode to Jeremiah White’s,fp24 and on Tuesday, about fifty miles to Page Mann’s, in Charlotte county, Virginia.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 508

Rode to Rough Creek.fp25 On Thursday, the 19th, our conference began at William White’s.fp26 We had much preaching, morning, noon, and night, and some souls were converted to God.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 509

I gave them a discourse on Jeremiah 3:15: “And I will give you pastors according to my heart.”

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 509

Doctor (Coke) spoke on the qualifications of a deacon; and I gave them a charge. Some said there were three thousand people to hear: it was a solemn, weighty time.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 509

We called at Hampden and Sydney college,fp27 in Prince Edward: the outside has an unwieldy, uncommon appearance, for a seminary of learning; what the inside is, I know not. The president, Mr. I. Smith, is a discreet man, who conducts himself well. About half past eleven o’clock we reached John Finney’s, in Amelia, having ridden about sixty miles. I want to live more constantly in the spirit of prayer.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 509

Preached at I. Anderson’s,fp28 and then rode to Manchester,fp29 where I preached again. The Doctor preached in Richmond.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 509

Went onwards to the north. We have made it a point to pray in the families where we lodge, whether public or private; and generally where we stop for refreshment.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 509

At night the Doctor preached in Alexandria; and again on the Sabbath morning, to many hearers.

MARYLAND

We were kindly entertained on Sunday night at Shadrach Turner’s,fp30 near Bladensburg, Maryland, and on Monday reached Baltimore about noon. We had some warm and close debatesfp31 in conference; but all ended in love and peace. After much fatigue and trouble, our conference ended on Monday, the seventh of May. We went forward to Perry Hall. Thence we went to Cokesbury; drew a deed for the conveyance of the property of the college, and settled our temporal matters there.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 509

Many attended at Elkton, and we were received by the Rudolph familyfp32 with great respect.

PENNSYLVANIA—NEW JERSEY

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 509

We attended at Wilmington (Delaware) at noon; and at Chester at night.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 510

We reached Philadelphia, where the Doctorfp33 preached that and the following evening. We spent the Sabbath in the city, and on Monday came to Trenton, where we found a lifeless people.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 510

The Doctor preached with life in the Episcopal church at Elizabethtown (New Jersey), and we had a good time. NEW YORK

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 510

Arrived in New York and rested. On Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, the Doctor preachedfp34 with great energy and acceptance.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 510

After long silence,fp35 I preached on, “For Zion’s sake I will not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest.” Rode twenty miles on Long Island, to Hempstead Harbour,fp36 and preached with some liberty in the evening. I am now out of the city, and have time to reflect: my soul turns to its rest, and to its labour for souls, in which I can live more by rule.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 510

I rose very sick—felt solemn and devoted to God. I preached in a paper millfp37 on, “If any man will do his will he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God.”

I preached at Mosquito Cove,fp38 where many attended notwithstanding the rain: there was a power went with the word.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 510

Rode to ——: our friends had procured the Presbyterian

churchfp39 for me. I felt a spirit of life on these words, “Be ready to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you.” I called to see my old friend and assistant, James Glassbrook,fp40 who was the first preacher I travelled with upon a regular appointment in England. He is now a Presbyterian minister; much changed in his outward man, but I believe his sentiments are much the same as when I first knew him. The Lord be with and bless him!

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 510

I came to Harper’s, where we have a little new house, and about thirty members:fp41 I hope, and expect, in a few years, to see a circuit of six weeks formed here, and four or five hundred members in society. The people on this island, who hear the Gospel, are generally poor, and these are the kind I want, and expect to get. I have had great assistance and freedom in speaking.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 511

Came to New York. Preached at night on, “They that are

after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh, and they that are after the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.” I found it necessary to stop brother Hickson from going to Nova Scotia: brother Cromwell is married, and I expect brother Jessop will go alone.fp42

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 511

I delivered a close and awful discourse on, “They shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob,” &c. 1. A Scriptural view of the kingdom of heaven. 2. The subjects or citizens thereof. 3. Sit down with Abraham, famous for faith; Isaac, for justice, truth, meditation, and walking with God; and Jacob, mighty in prayer. I was in prayer until near midnight. O Lord, make me all life and love, patience and resignation under the troubles of the Church, and disappointment of its ministers.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 511

I had a gracious time on 2 Corinthians 4:1-4. Ordained Ezekiel Cooperfp43 a deacon. In the afternoon my soul had peace whilst I enlarged on Matthew 18:15, to the end.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 511

Preached on, “No man having put his hand to the plough and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of heaven.” I felt freedom and power in speaking.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 511

Met leaders and trustees and after some explanation, settled matters relative to singing in public worship. I preached at the poor- housefp44 on “Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” My soul has peace. I keep myself busy in visiting the families of the society, or the sick, or meeting class, if some other business does not call me.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 511

I had some life in preaching on Luke 4:18, and in the afternoon on “I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent,” &c.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 511

I left the city in great union with the Lord and with the Church. My soul is variously exercised: I want the country air, and to live more in the spirit and solitude of prayer. Came to East Chester and preached in the shell of the new churchfp45 on “To-day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts”; the power of God was felt. I came to the widow Bartow’s,fp46 where I lay sick fifteen years ago, and was treated with the greatest tenderness. May the Lord reward them all a hundred fold, and convert their souls!

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 511

I found it the same at New Rochelle town as in time past: will it always be so? If there is no change I shall trouble them no more. In the afternoon I rode to C——’s, where I laboured many years ago, and there is some fruit remaining to this day.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 512

We had a long and warm ride to North Castle.fp47 Here a

multitude were gathered together, to whom I spoke in an orchard on “Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and Saviour, to give repentance unto Israel, and remission of sins.” I was quite unwell, faint yet pursuing.

Rode to R——’s, of the society of Friends,fp48 who received us with great love.

At Hall’sfp49 a multitude came to hear, whom I exhorted to “seek the Lord while he might be found.”

I was happy in being alone. I poured out my soul to God for the whole work, and the dear people and preachers of my charge. My body is weak— my soul enjoys peace. I have power over all sin, and possess a spirit of prayer and watchfulness: I feel myself dead to all below, and desire to live only for God and souls.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 512

I preached to a listening multitude at Peekskill;fp50 and was alarming and close on, “By grace ye are saved through faith. I thought there were no people here of spiritual understanding; but I was informed, to my comfort, that a number of simple-hearted people had formed themselves into a society for prayer: perhaps these will be some of the first- fruits in this place.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 512

Rode over the mountains, and was gratified with the sight of a remarkable recess for the Americans during the last war: the names of Andre and Arnold, with which misfortune and treachery are so unhappily and intimately blended, will give celebrity to West Point, had it been less deserving of notice than its wonderful appearance really makes it. It is commanded by mountains rising behind, and appears to be impregnable: there are block houses on the east; and on the west, stores, barracks, and fortifications. From West Point we crossed a high mountain,fp51 and came to Newburg.fp52

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 512

In the love feast, sacrament, and public exercises, we were employed nearly seven hours: there was some life in the love feast, but the congregation appeared very little moved under preaching.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 513

I presume I had nearly seven hundred hearers at Allen’s,fp53 to whom I spoke with some power on Luke 11:13. I baptized several adults, and some children; and came to Wyatt’s,fp54 and baptized others. Thence to Mr. Ellison’s,fp55 whose wife (a Dutch lady) entertained us like a queen.

I visited Colonel P——, supposed to be at the point of death: after a close examination, I administered the sacrament to him.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 513

I came to Warwick,fp56 where I suppose not less than a

thousand people were collected: I was very low both in body and spirit, but felt stirred up at the sight of such a congregation, and was moved and quickened while I enlarged on Galatians 1:4. I baptized some and administered the sacrament to many communicants.

NEW JERSEY

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 513

A multitude attended at Benjamin’s,fp57 in a barn. Here God has wrought a great work for a poor, blind, ignorant people.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 513

I preached at the stone church,fp58 after riding upwards of thirty miles: we then rode until ten o’clock in the night through a heavy rain. I was much tried in body and mind: I had nothing to eat but a little bread and milk, and that made me sick.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 513

We had a good time at Sweezy’s.fp59 After administering the sacrament, we had another long ride after night.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 513

I preached in the woodsfp60 to nearly a thousand people. I was much oppressed by a cold, and felt very heavy in body and soul. Like Jonah, I went and sat down alone. I had some gracious feelings in the sacrament—others also felt the quickening power of God. I baptized a number of infants and adults, by sprinkling and by immersion. I felt my body quite weary in, but my spirit not of, the work of God.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 513

Preached at William Wallace’sfp61 to a dull, contracted people. Since last Monday two weeks, I have ridden about three hundred and fifty miles.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 514

We had a warm ride through a fertile, pleasant country to Trenton.

PENNSYLVANIA

On Thursday, the 28th, to Philadelphia. Here I found Thomas Vaseyfp62 had scattered firebrands, and thrown dirt to bespatter us. Friday and Saturday 29, 30. Taken up in writing letters, packing up books and begging for the college.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 514

Preached three times in the city of Philadelphia—on

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 514

to a few simple-hearted souls at Radnor.fp63

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 514

We had a flat time at the Valley.fp64

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 514

We had a few feeling souls at Uwchland;fp65 afterward went to Coventry Forge.fp66

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 514

I had some energy in preaching to a few people at Morganstown.fp67

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 514

Preached at Evans’s, Uwchland;fp68 a poor people for religion: I hope, nevertheless, that God will visit them.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 515

Preached at John Miller’s,fp69 who has a pious wife. MARYLAND

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 515

We rode to Hagerstown; and found it a journey of about fifty miles: we and our horses were weary enough. I was sorry to hear that the people came twice to hear me last year, and the lameness of my horse caused me to disappoint them.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 515

At five o’clock in the evening the court house was opened; a few of the great and many of the poor attended, to whom I spoke with Divine assistance. I preached again on Sunday at eleven o’clock. I find Thomas Vasey has misrepresented us as having cast off Mr. Wesley, making this a plea for his re-ordination.fp70

WEST VIRGINIA

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 515

Set out for the Springs.fp71 In the first place we missed our way; then my baggage-horse ran back two miles: I was tried not a little. O, how sad the reflection, that matters trifling as these should make a person so uneasy. We reached the Springs about seven o’clock. I preached the two following days with some satisfaction. By advancing nine pounds, for nails and planks, I engaged brother Eaton to have our chapel covered by first of August.

MARYLAND

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 515

We had a heavy ride to Oldtown: we met with a kind reception; and had a reviving season in the family.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 515

Was a day of rest to my soul and body. Preached on Cant. 4:16.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 515

We had sacrament, attended with some power, in the evening.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 515

There were to have been great doings at Cumberland, but Mr. Bower,fp72 a minister, failed coming. I had a good time in Mr. Bell’s mill,fp73 on, “Thou art fairer than the sons of men.”

We had feeling and weeping at Barratt’s; my subject, “I sleep, but my heart waketh,” &c., eight or nine verses. I feel a sweetness of spirit, and much of the love of Christ. Came to Cresap’s.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 515

Ordained brother Phoebus deacon,fp74 and had a serious time. WEST VIRGINIA

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 516

At Jones’s,fp75 all death! death! death! My mind was devoted to God. I administered the sacrament, but could find no openings. Rode to Oldtown, Maryland. Six years ago I preached in this place, when there was scarcely a soul that knew anything of God; now there are sixty in membership, many of whom are happy in the knowledge of the truth. We held a love feast and had a quickening time.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 516

Rode to the Springs (Bath), much tried in spirit. I gave myself to reading and prayer.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 516

Preached at Bath.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 516

Preached on 1 Peter 3:9, to a large congregation, with but little liberty.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 516

I began my lectures on the Prophecies by Bishop Newton, and had more hearers than I expected. The weather is very warm; many are sickly; and continued changes of comers and goers; all this leaves but little opportunity for prayer. I forbear reading on account of my eyes, lest I should not be able to read in public.

Tuesday and Wednesday, 7, 8. Had very few to hear, so I gave them up: everything that is good is in low estimation at this place. I will return to my own studies: if the people are determined to go to hell, I am clear of their blood. My soul is clothed in sackcloth and covered with ashes before the Lord.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 516

I enjoy some peace.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 516

I feel calm within, and the want of more life, and more love to God, and more patience with sinners. I read my Testament. O! what a weariness would life be without God, and love, and labour! The first two weeks of my time at Bath have been spent in carrying on the building of the new chapel, reading Newton on the Prophecies, visiting, bathing, &c. My soul has been under great trials, at times, but hitherto the Lord has helped.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 516

O, how sweet will labour, and Christian society, and the solitary woods be to me!

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 517

I have been under great exercises, but was divinely assisted in preaching on, “The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous,” &c.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 517

I preached on, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings,” &c. It was a solemn time—my soul was stayed upon God. We had a melting sacrament and love feast, and many spoke. The devil is angry, and so are his children: brother Whatcoat spoke at the steps, and it was with difficulty the people kept themselves within decent bounds of respect.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 517

I gave them my farewell address at Bath, and had many hearers.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 517

I set out in the rain, and came to the widow Stroud’s, where I met with Thomas Vasey who made some acknowledgments for what he had said in the heat of his zeal at Philadelphia and at Bath.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 517

I attended at a place where every one has liberty to preach; but it so happened that no one had an appointment there but myself. The Methodists would do well to withdraw from this as a preaching place in their circuit. I had a large congregation at Shepherdstown, to whom I spoke, on Luke 4:18. I have had some trials and great consolations; and, at times, it is a Paradise regained with me since I left Bath and the wicked there.

MARYLAND

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 517

I had a cold time at Reistertown, on, “Woe to them that are at ease in Zion.” Thence I rode to the new church,fp76 where I had much more life. Came to Baltimore. The weather is extremely warm.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 517

Preached in the morning—my text, “Thou art fairer than the sons of men:” in the afternoon at Mr. Otterbein’s church: and at night on, “They shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south,” &c. Large crowds attended: I was straitened in speaking. The following was a week of haste and business. Wednesday, I went to Perry Hall; thence to Cokesbury—fixed the price of board, and the time for opening the college. On Friday, I returned to Baltimore. In the midst of business my mind is calm.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 517

Preached at Baltimore and Fell’s Point. On Monday, the

people waited nearly two hours at Daniel Evans’s before I arrived, owing to my horse being out of the way: I found he had stuck a nail into his foot, so that I had to leave him. Under these discouraging circumstances I was much exercised: nevertheless, I had liberty in speaking, and there was a melting time among the people. Thence I hastened to Hunt’s chapel, where I enlarged on, “I know you, that you have not the love of God in you.” I rode by John Colgate’s gate—an old stand of mine. It is now, in two senses, fallen into decay. The want of religion oftentimes causes the want of economy. Ah! how do the persons and fashions of this world pass away!

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 518

I found the work of God in a reviving state at G——’s.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 518

I had a liberal opening at John Wilson’s, on “Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Thence I hastened to the Fork church, and preached On Song of Solomon 3:1-6. I lamented the gayety of the children of Methodists; but yet they do not appear to be so full of enmity against God and his people as other children. I hastened to Cokesbury, it being the examination: some gentlemen and some triflers were present. Friday, I preached at Josias Dallam’s.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 518

I preached at Havre de Grace, on Acts 2:23.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 518

I had a large congregation at Elkton, and some power attended the word. In the evening spoke at Isaac Tussey’s.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 518

I had a large, solemn congregation at Wilmington. I feel a persuasion that God will revive his work at this place. PENNSYLVANIA

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 518

I attended at Chester; and next day came to Philadelphia. I had liberty in speaking on Song of Solomon 5:6-10. On Thursday and Friday, I had not freedom as I wished. I was seized with a violent headache, exceeding anything, as I thought, I had ever felt.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 518

I felt a little better. My mind was stayed upon God.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

We had a good sacramental occasion. In the afternoon brother Willisfp77 preached; and at night I had some enlargement on Ephesians 4:17-19.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

I met the people, and explained the nature and design of the college.fp78

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

I preached on the primitive design of the Church.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

We had an uncommon love feast—a gracious season—much speaking. On Saturday I met a class.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

There was life in the administration of the sacrament. I felt humbled before the Most High. I trust the Lord will revive his work, and make his power known.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

I came to Chester, and preached on, “My grace is sufficient for thee.”

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

I had unusual freedom in speaking at Aaron Matson’s. Thence I pushed on through the rain, and was sorely tempted to complain. DELAWARE

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

I was at Wilmington; and next day came late to Joseph Dickerson’s.

I visited Duck Creek Cross Roads,fp79 where we have a comfortable house, which cost about two hundred pounds.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

Came to Dover very unwell, and brother Ira Ellisfp80 preached in my stead.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

I read prayers, and preached on 2 Timothy 3:10; and solemnly set apart Jacob Brushfp81 and Ira Ellis, for the office of deacon: I trust it was a profitable time. I spent two days at Thomas White’s.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

I preached the funeral sermon of Joshua Barwick—a faithful steady man, who had followed the Lord about ten years; my text was, “These all died in the faith.”

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

I had Divine aid in preaching at Milford’s:fp82 the house was open, and the day was cold.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 519

Came in the evening to Shanklands. Here I found the people in disorder and violence about the election; some had gone so far as to take up fire-arms.

Sunday morning, 21. Before sacrament I preached on Psalms 2:2Psalm 2:24, 25;fp83 and then in Lewes, on, “God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world,” &c.

Tuesday and Wednesday, 23, 24. I had a good time at quarterly meeting, at the Sound church: thence, through a barren, sandy country, we came to Evans’s church,fp84 where we had a good and gracious time, more so than I have felt for some time. From Evans’s we rode to the beach, and gratified our curiosity with the sight of the raging, roaring sea.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 520

I spoke closely upon the discipline of the Church: my subject, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine,” &c. After meeting, we had a very long ride to brother Bowen’s.fp85

VIRGINIA

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 520

After preaching at Parnell’s, on, “I will give them a heart to know me,” &c., I rode in the evening to Downing’s.fp86

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 520

Reached Paramore’sfp87 at night.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 520

We had a gracious time indeed.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 520

There were life and power among the people in the sacrament and love feast. I was greatly comforted to find the Lord had greatly blessed the labours of brother Sparks,fp88 and that a revival had taken place all round the circuit. In the evening I rode to Burton’s, in Virginia. The former inhabitants have gone to the dust.

It seemed as if I was let into heaven, while I enlarged on, “Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” We have twenty miles, and sometimes more, a day to travel; but we have fine roads, kind friends, and good entertainment.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 520

The people coming in still after I began, caused me to lengthen out my discourse. Came afterward to Captain Burton’s, and spoke with life and consolation.

MARYLAND

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 520

Was a day of sore exercise of soul, and barren preaching. I visited Mr. R., and administered the sacrament to him. Rested that evening with Mr. Thomas Curtis.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

Quarterly meeting. I was close on keeping the feast, and on discipline—some felt the word.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

Preached on, “Thou shalt arise and favour Zion.” I believe God will make his power known; and I trust brother Joseph Everett will be made a blessing, as well by strictness of discipline, as by faithful preaching.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

I had a few living people at John Phoebus’s.fp89 My soul is given up to God; but I have felt Satan near. Lord, help, or I perish!

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

I had some light in preaching at the Fork chapel.fp90 Spent the evening with brother Ennall.fp91

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

I preached at Hopper’s.fp92 Thence I rode to Johnson’s chapel,fp93 and spoke on 2 Timothy l: 8-12. I had some enlargement. After riding thirty miles and preaching twice, we held a watch night at Todd’s.fp94

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

We went to church at Cambridge, and heard a sermon.

Afterward I spoke to a large congregation at Tucker’s, on Romans 10:1-4. Upon the whole, it has been a laborious, trying time of late.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

We rode through excessive rain thirty miles. Our quarterly meeting at Frazier’s chapel was large and lively. I had very few to hear at Doctor Allen’s,fp95 the fiery edge is greatly worn off there.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

We had a feeling time at Bolingbroke; but it is not here as in months past. O how soon does the power or religion decline! I came to Easton, Talbot county, where we had a watch night, and the gentry had a ball.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

We had a gracious season at the Bayside, where many attended.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

My soul is dejected. O that it were perfectly resigned to the will of God!

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 521

I stopped at Keet’s,fp96 on my way to Kent Island. Although under a great depression of spirits, I was uncommonly led out whilst I enlarged on, “Woe to them that are at ease in Zion,” to a large assembly of people.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 522

My mind is still depressed. I called on poor Colonel H., who bears his imprisonment for debt with great fortitude. I had a good time at Boardley’s,fp97 notwithstanding two drunken men came in and made some disturbance.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 522

Cold, straitened for time at Tuckahoe; something better at Choptank. I here heard of the conduct of Adam Cloud;fp98 he is gone from us at last. There were many people at Barratt’s chapel during quarterly meeting, but I had little life in speaking.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 522

We had a melting time at Queen Anne’s chapel. I

enforced, “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.”

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 522

At Chestertown, I had but little life on Isaiah 53:1-5. At night the Lord was with us indeed, while I enforced, “Let your moderation be known to all men.”

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 522

After preaching at Worton chapel, we set out to cross the Chesapeake Bay, and were on the water until ten o’clock at night.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 522

We opened our college, and admitted twenty-five students. I preached on, “Trust in the Lord, and do good.” On the Sabbath I spoke on, “O man of God, there is death in the pot;” and on Monday, “They are the seed of the blessed of the Lord, and their offspring with them.” From Cokesbury I came to Baltimore, where I was closely employed and much in haste about temporal concerns.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 522

I had a cold ride to Annapolis; and but few to hear me on Sunday morning. Brother Hagertyfp99 attempted to travel with me, but was soon glad to resign. My soul has been kept in peace, and for three weeks past I have enjoyed a most devoted frame of mind.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 522

We must now direct our course for Lancaster, Virginia,

through a barren route of sixty miles. This is the only uncultivated part of Maryland; and God will surely visit these people, and bless them in his own time, if they hear his voice. We crossed Patuxent River at sunrise: brother James Riggin having undertaken to be our guide, led us ten miles out of our way.

VIRGINIA

Bearing near to Port Tobacco, we came to the ferry, crossed about sunset, and put up at Mrs. Hooe’s,fp100 where we paid eight shillings for our oats, and six for our fodder—all this exclusive of charge for lodging, as she said.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 522

Reached Pope’s some time in the night. On Saturday I read the apostolical canons, published by Johnson—curious enough. He is a violent Churchman, and appears to have little charity for the Presbyterians, upon whom he is unmercifully severe. I have been sorely tempted, and at sword’s point with the enemy.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 523

I had very little life in preaching to a few dead souls at Pope’s.fp101 On Monday, at Hutt’s, it was nearly the same both in preaching and sacrament. In the evening, at brother Cannon’s,fp102 the Lord powerfully broke into my soul, and the cloud disappeared. That night while sleeping, I dreamed I was praying for sanctification, and God very sensibly filled me with love, and I waked shouting glory, glory to God! My soul was all in a flame. I had never felt so much of God in my life; and so I continued. This was on Christmas day—a great day to me. I rode to the Widow Woolard’s,fp103 and preached on, “For this purpose was the Son of God manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” During the last five days, we have ridden one hundred and forty miles. We crossed Wicomoco, and came to G’s. Death prevails here. My spirit was clothed in sackcloth.

Saturday and Sunday, 29, 30. Held quarterly meeting at Lancaster meeting house. There was a large gathering, and some life on the first day. On Sunday there was much snow, and only about three hundred people attended. I ordained E. Ellis a deacon.

ASB_VOL1.PDF, p. 523