1792

1792. On this beginning of the new year, I preached and had liberty on Isaiah 65:1, 2. In the evening I once more cried to the people of Norfolk, “Repent, and be converted:” my audience was attentive and tender. My body was greatly fatigued, my soul much comforted in the Lord. Religion revives here, the seed which has been sowing for twenty years begins to spring up: Norfolk flourishes; Portsmouth declines, and is already low.

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Rode to William Blount’s: there were but few people. On our way thither brother Morrellfu1 would stop to feed: I believe the Lord sent me to speak a word to a broken-hearted, forsaken, distressed woman. My soul enjoys peace; but excessive labour, and bodily suffering from the cold, prevent that deep communion with God I wish for: I do little except reading a few chapters in my Hebrew Bible.

NORTH CAROLINA

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I preached at the widow Hardy’s to a large congregation: I felt freedom in speaking, and the souls of the people appeared tender. The prospect of our journey ahead seemed gloomy; however, we came down in the snow, and got on board a leaky flat, which we were obliged to bale as we went; the ferry was five miles wide, our horses restless, the river (Roanoke) rough, and the weather very cold; but the Lord brought us safe to shore,fu2 twelve miles from our destined place: we were strangers to the road, and had not an hour’s sun; nevertheless, kind Providence brought us through the dark and cold to brother Ward’s about eight o’clock: here I sold my carriage and took horse again.

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I rode with no small difficulty to Green Hill’s, about two hundred miles, the roads being covered with snow and ice.fu3 Our conference began and ended in great peace and harmony: we had thirty-one preachers stationed at the different houses in the neighbourhood. I find we have had a good work in the eastern district of North Carolina in the past year. For some time back I have travelled with much difficulty, having few hearers, much weakness of body, and uncomfortable weather.

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Our conference rose. I rode twenty miles through severe cold to Brother B——’s.

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Brother Morrell, my fellow traveller, was unwell: we had our horses roughed, which detained us an hour or two after the appointed time. I reached brother T——’s, and said a little from Philipians 2:14-16; but the people could not hear, their souls and their bodies were cold. Finding it was twenty-two miles to my next appointment, I set off without refreshment, intending to reach brother D——’s near Hillsboro;fu4 on the way, however, hearing of brother S——, a local preacher, we called on him, and he gave us freely of such things as he had.

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I was led out with freedom on the last two verses of

Hebrews 12, at M——’s. I find outward difficulties in my progress; the roads are covered with ice and snow, and the severity of the weather prevents my having an opportunity, when I wish, of spending time in private exercises; but, blessed be God! I am resigned, and am kept from sin, and my soul is stayed upon God.

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After riding thirty miles through ice and snow to Rainey’s, I found many people waiting for me, and I began, without any refreshment, to speak on, “This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” 1. I endeavoured to point out the object of this faith; 2. Its subjects;

3. Its nature; and 4. Its victory. In our route through North Carolina we passed through Bertie, Gates, Tyrrel, Tarborough, Franklin, Wake, Chatham, Orange, Guilford, and Randolph counties.fu5 We have travelled nearly eight hundred miles since the 7th of December last past. Seldom have I been tempted to a murmuring thought; it is now the 29th of January: I want nothing but more mental and private prayer.

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Yesterday and to-day we have ridden about sixty miles, a great deal of the way through heavy hail and rain. I gave an exhortation at C—’s on seeking the kingdom of God. Here we had all things richly to supply our wants; and what was still better, we found the Lord had souls in this family.

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I preached to a considerable congregation at M’D——’sfu6 on Acts 13:38.

Saturday and Sunday, 4, 5. I attended a quarterly meeting. SOUTH CAROLINA

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At Fowler’s (Flowers) church.fu7 For some time past I have enjoyed much of God, though suffering under indisposition of body, and frequently in a crowd: I feel nothing but peace in my soul, and find power to trust Jehovah with his own cause.

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We reached sister Port’s.fu8 I find there is a great commotion among the people, excited by the conduct of William Hammett, who has divided the society in Charleston, and taken to himself some chaff and some wheat. This is not all—they say our house will go too.

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We set off after six o’clock in the morning; our horses

being over-fed we did not push them, so that we did not reach Georgetown until near six in the evening. After my trials and hard tiding my cordial is to preach at night. Except Georgetown and Charleston, there are few places where I have not a good congregation when weather permits. I can praise God—my soul is happy in Him; by his grace I am kept from sin, and I still hope this dark cloud that lowers over us will yet break with blessings on our heads.

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We rested; and next day came to Wappetaw, and found that brother Sinclair Capers had moved. We then went to his brother’s, whose wife was buried that day.fu9 We were fatigued and cold, and rejoiced to find that we were not compelled to take up our lodgings under a pine tree.

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Arrived in Charleston.fu10 I received a full and true account of Mr. Hammett’s proceedings. Brothers Ellis and Parksfu11 have done all things well. Mr. Hammett has three grand objections to us:—l. The American preachers and people insulted him. 2. His name was not printed in our Minutes. 3. The nota bene cautioning minute was directed against him. He has gone to the New Market, to preach, and has drawn about twenty white members after him. We are considered by him as seceders from Methodism!—because we do not wear gowns and powder; and because we did not pay sufficient respect to Mr. Wesley!fu12 Sabbath, 12. My subject was Isaiah 53:11. Brother H. preached in the afternoon.

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Our conference began. I preached at night on Luke 24:17, and endeavoured to show the low estate of the interest of Christ at that time. In our conference we were unusually dose in examination of characters, doctrines, and experience: we had great peace and some power amongst us, and received the good news of eighty souls being converted in Philadelphia, and of a revival in Connecticut.

I preached a sermon to the preachers, on “Endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”

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I received an abusive, anonymous letter (I believe from Mr. Smith)fu13 on several subjects.fu14 My spirits were low; I came from my knees to receive the letter, and having read it, I returned whence I came; I judged it prudent and expedient, and I think I was urged thereto by conscience, to tell the people of some things relating to myself. I related to them the manner of my coming to America; how I continued during the war; the arrival of Dr. Coke, and the forming of the American Methodists into a Church; and finally, why I did not commit the charge of the society in Charleston, to Mr. Hammett, who was unknown, a foreigner, and did not acknowledge the authority of, nor join in connection with, the American conference.

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I preached on “Who is on the Lord’s side?” Mr. Matthewsfu15 sent in his resignation. For certain reasons we were led to pass over his character, but we were wrong; it might have been better to subject it to scrutiny, although none grieved at his going from us.

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I came out of the fire. Rode to Parker’s ferry.fu16

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Came to Mr. Lambright’s, and next day had a heavy ride to Maixer’s, and missed my congregation after all, and so I did at Hudson’s, in Georgia;fu17 however, I spoke a few words to a few people, and it was felt.

GEORGIA

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We had fifty miles to ride, but had the advantage of good roads. Stopped at Finch’s, and then came on to brother M——’s; he and his father have kindly entertained us as the servants of the Lord.

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I had an attentive and feeling people at Providence, where I saw C——, and learned that poor Henry, the Jew mentioned March 9, 1791, was dead, and died wretched in body and mind, a few months after my departure. Let preachers or people catch me in Waynesborough until things are altered and bettered. Since last Monday I have ridden one hundred and eighty miles, and was obliged to ride on, though late, to prevent man and beast being on the road on the Sabbath day. My mind was powerfully struck with a sense of the great duty of preaching in all companies; of always speaking boldly and freely for God as if in the pulpit. Sabbath morning, 26. I made frequent visits to the throne of grace, and feel my soul comforted in God’s word, “Instead of thy fathers, thou shalt have sons, whom thou shalt make princes in all the land:” I feel solemn; the burden of the work lies on me; the preachers have left and are leaving the field.

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We rode thirty miles to White Oak meeting housefu18—a

painful journey; the weather was cold, and the house open; the people, however, were attentive. It is not pleasing to the flesh to take only a little tea at seven o’clock in the morning, and then go until six at night before we have a table spread; and ah! how few Christian houses! I had my trials in the evening.

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We rode through the snow to Little River,fu19 and a few people met us at Scott’s: I preached on 2 Timothy 4:2-4. Without staying to eat, we rode on to Washington,fu20 making thirty miles this day also. We collected our conference, and had great searching and sifting, and were under the necessity of suspending one; we were very close in examining characters and principles: each preacher spoke his experience, and made his observations relative to the work of God since last conference. Brother Hull accompanies me, and H. Herbert repairs to Alexandria in Virginia. I hope in future there will be harmony among the brethren: if souls are converted to God it answers no valuable purpose thereafter to disciple them to ourselves. I preached on the marriage supper, and took occasion to show how some are kept from, and others lose, the grace of God, by the unlawful use of lawful things.

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Rode to Fishing Creek, and had an uncomfortable time on the Sabbath at Bibb’s Cross Roads.fu21 SOUTH CAROLINA

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I left Georgia, and lodged near Whitehall in South Carolina.fu22

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Rode fifty miles to brother Finch’s;fu23 here the brethren gave me a meeting on Wednesday; the congregation was small, and the people unengaged; rode that evening to O’Dell’s, and the next day to Watter’s. NORTH CAROLINA

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Preached at Smith’sfu24 on Romans 5:1-3; and kept the holy, solemn Sabbath as a day of rest for man and beast.

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Rode forty miles to Major Moor’s, cold and weary. I have read two volumes of Gordon’s American Revolution, containing about one thousand pages. We came to the widow M——’s: here we heard that fifty poor wandering sinners had been brought back to God in this wild place, and we rejoiced at the glad tidings.

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I was very much chilled in riding twenty-five miles over the mountains to Wiltshire’s: at three o’clock I preached on Hebrews 3:12-

14. I was very unwell and in much pain. There was a poor man in the house who was wild enough to swim the river on a mare with another man behind him what a mercy that he was not drowned!

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I felt death in some measure at this place. Brother Hull preached and I exhorted.

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We had a close love feast, and a few testimonies of the power and love of Christ: there was some little melting also amongst the people; but it is hard to civilize, methodize, and spiritualize; sin, Satan, flesh, and hell are against us.

We have rested two days besides Sabbaths, and ridden two hundred and fifty miles in about two weeks: our entertainment is generally mean.

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Our horses’ backs being bruised, we had our difficulties in getting to Rehoboth.

We were well-nigh cast away in going to the widow W——’s. It was very dark, and we were bewildered in the woods. My saddle turned, and I slipped from my horse, but received no harm. I had to walk nearly half a mile through mud and water to reach the house.

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I came to Gordon’s, on the Yadkin. It is seven years since I was here—dead! dead! The world—the devil—Antinomianism in doctrine and practice. I was led out in preaching on Deuteronomy 33:29. VIRGINIA

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We started for Holston.fu25 After riding about fifteen miles, we stopped to feed, and a woman directed us along the new way over the Elk Spur. We found ourselves in a wilderness. The weather was very cold, and the night coming on, we were at a loss what to do. Whilst we were wishfully looking about us, to our great satisfaction we discovered a house. It was clean and comfortable, and we were well entertained.

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We made an early start for friend Enoch Osborne’s,fu26 on New River, fifteen miles distant. Here we were generously entertained. After talking and praying together, we were guided across the river, for which I was thankful. Arriving at Fox Creek, we crossed it eleven times, and tarried that night with C——, a nominal member of the Society of Friends, who used us very well.

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Rode twelve miles to Smith’s.fu27 After dinner, exhortation, and prayer, we came down the south fork, and crossed the middle fork of Holston river.

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Came to the Salt Works,fu28 and on Sunday preached on, “Happy is the people whose God is the Lord.”

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I had enlargement in preaching to an attentive congregation at Abingdon court house.fu29

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Preached at Owens’fu30 on, “This people have I formed for myself.”

TENNESSEE

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We had many people to hear at Charles Baker’s,fu31 to whom I preached with some life. We took half a day to have the smith’s work done in fitting our horses for the journey through the wilderness. Rode twenty-four miles to Mr. Young’s, on the main Holston, and the next day, eighteen miles to Hawkins court house,fu32 and thence to Crabb’s.fu33 We have confused accounts of Indians. Our guard rested on the Sabbath day within four miles of the wilderness.

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I heard a company had arrived from Kentucky at Crabb’s. This man’s son and a Mr. Henderson have been killed by the Indians since I was here last.

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I preached to all the people I could collect. KENTUCKY

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We entered the wilderness and reached Robinson’s station.fu34 Two of the company were on foot, carrying their packs; and women there are with their children. These encumbrances make us move slowly and heavily.

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We reached Richland Creek, and were preserved from harm. About two o’clock it began to rain, and continued most of the day. After crossing the Laurel River, which we were compelled to swim, we came to Rock Castle station, where we found such a set of sinners as made it next to hell itself. Our corn here cost us a dollar per bushel.fu35

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This morning we again swam the river, and also the West

Fork thereof. My little horse was ready to fail in the course of the day. I was steeped in the water up to the waist. About seven o’clock, with hard pushing, we reached the Crab Orchard. How much I have suffered in this journey is only known to God and myself. What added much to its disagreeableness, is the extreme filthiness of the houses. I was seized with a severe flux, which followed me eight days: for some of the time I kept up, but at last found myself under the necessity of taking to my bed.

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I endured as severe pain as, perhaps, I ever felt. I made use of small portions of rhubarb; and also obtained some good claret, of which I drank a bottle in three days, and was almost well, so that on Sunday following I preached a sermon an hour long. In the course of my affliction I have felt myself very low. I have had serious views of eternity, and was free from the fear of death. I stopped and lodged, during my illness with Mr. Willis Green, who showed me all possible attention and kindness. I wrote and sent to Mr. Rice, a Presbyterian minister, a commendation of his speech, delivered in a convention in Kentucky, on the natural rights of mankind.fu36 I gave him an exhortation to call on the Methodists on his way to Philadelphia, and, if convenient, to preach in our houses.

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I wrote an address on behalf of Bethel school. The weather was wet, and stopped us until Friday.

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Rode to Clarke’s station;fu37 and on Saturday preached on David’s charge to Solomon.

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I preached a long, and perhaps a terrible sermon, some may think, on “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.”

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I rode to Bethel.fu38 I found it necessary to change the plan of the house, to make it more comfortable to the scholars in cold weather. I am too much in company, and hear so much about Indians, convention, treaty, killing, and scalping, that my attention is drawn more to these things than I would wish. I found it good to get alone in the woods and converse with God.

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Was a rainy, damp day. However, we rode to meet the

conference,fu39 where I was closely employed with the travelling and local preachers; with the leaders and stewards. I met the married men and women apart, and we had great consolation in the Lord. Vast crowds of people attended public worship. The spirit of matrimony is very prevalent here. In one circuit both preachers are settled. The land is good, the country new, and indeed all possible facilities to the comfortable maintenance of a family are offered to an industrious prudent pair.

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Came to L——’s. An alarm was spreading of a depredation

committed by the Indians, on the east and west frontiers of the settlement. In the former, report says one man was killed. In the latter, many men, with women and children. Everything is in motion. There having been so many about me at conference, my rest was much broken. I hoped now to repair it, and get refreshed before I set out to return through the wilderness; but the continual arrival of people until midnight, the barking of dogs, and other annoyances, prevented. Next night we reached the Crab Orchard, where thirty or forty people were compelled to crowd into one mean house. We could get no more rest here than we did in the wilderness. We came the old way by Scaggs Creek, and Rock Castle, supposing it to be safer, as it was a road less frequented, and therefore less liable to be waylaid by the savages. My body by this time is well tried. I had a violent fever and pain in the head, such as I had not lately felt. I stretched myself on the cold ground, and borrowing clothes to keep me warm, by the mercy of God I slept four or five hours. Next morning we set off early, and passed beyond Richland Creek. Here we were in danger, if anywhere. I could have slept, but was afraid. Seeing the drowsiness of the company, I walked the encampment, and watched the sentries the whole night. Early next morning we made our way to Robinson’s station. We had the best company I ever met with—thirty-six good travellers, and a few warriors; but we had a pack-horse, some old men, and two tired horses—these were not the best part.

TENNESSEE

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Through infinite mercy we came safe to Crabb’s. Rest, poor house of clay, from such exertions! Return, O my soul, to thy rest!

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I came to Young’s: a comfortable, quiet house, within six miles of Ratcliffe’s, whose wife and children were murdered by the Indians. Here I slept comfortably.

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We came to brother Baker’s, where we rested two days and had our horses shod.

VIRGINIA

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Rode to Michael Halfacre’s, about fifty miles, and came in about eleven o’clock.

Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, 12, 13, 14. We were engaged in the business of conference at Holston.fu40 I had a meeting with the men; a lively one with the women, most of whose hearts the Lord touched.

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We came to Russell’s old place,fu41 at Seven Mile Ford, and next day set out for Greenbrier, and reached Cook’s. My spirits were too lively and disposed to gayety, which indulged, perhaps too far, made me feel mean before the Lord.

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Rode to Hogg’s, and next day to McPherson’s; forty miles each day. The roads were better than I expected.

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Rode twenty miles. My weary body feels the want of rest;

but my heart rejoiced to meet with the brethren who were waiting for me. I am more than ever convinced of the need and propriety of annual conferences, and of greater changes among the preachers. I am sensible the western parts have suffered by my absence. I lament this, and deplore my loss of strict communion with God, occasioned by the necessity I am under of constant riding, change of place, company, and sometimes disagreeable company, loss of sleep, and the difficulties of clambering over rocks and mountains, and journeying at the rate of seven or eight hundred miles per month, and sometimes forty or fifty miles a day. These have been a part of my labours, and make no small share of my hindrances.

I crossed the Kanawha at Paris’s ferry.fu42 Here I conversed with a man who informed me a brother preacher had called there, and, as he said, was peevish. The dear man was just at death’s door, and though his exercises and bodily infirmities may have pressed him sore, and excited expressions of discontent, he was, nevertheless, a meek and holy servant of God. My informant also mentioned another, who had been a member, and who would swear horribly and drink to excess. It is proper I notice, that I did not receive these accounts from a professor of religion. I thought within myself—See how we are watched! Ah! we little think oftentimes how narrowly our conduct, our tempers, are observed by the world; and poor sinners still less imagine how strictly we watch them, and how well this habit of observation, and the intimate knowledge we gain of our own hearts, makes us competent judges of their cases, and enables us so justly and so powerfully to condemn their wickedness.

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I preached at Rehoboth,fu43 on Isaiah 4:12; there was no great move: brothers Hope Hullfu44 and Philip Coxfu45 both spoke after me. “Weary world, when will it end?”

My mind and body feel dull and heavy, but still my soul drinks deeper into God. We rode about one hundred and sixty miles from the Rich Valley to Greenbrier conference; talking too much, and praying too little, caused me to feel barrenness of soul. We had a hope that not less than ten souls were converted during the conference: at preaching I myself, having a violent headache, retired; the Lord was with them at the sacrament; after which, the doors being opened, many came in and the meeting continued until nearly sunset.

We had a most solemn ordination on Thursday morning. Afterward we rode through Greenbrier by the town, on to brother Watts’s,fu46 a distance of thirty-six miles. My headache still continuing, brother Hope Hull preached, and I retired to rest.

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We rode twenty-six miles to the Little Levels. O what a

solitary country this is! We have now one hundred and twenty miles before us, fifty of which is a wilderness: there is a guard at two houses on our route; but I do not fear: nature is spent with labour; I would not live always; hail! happy death: nothing but holiness, perfect love, and then glory for me!

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My body is much wearied; my bowels being much

disordered, the water, the milk, and the bread, are like physic to me. We now thought it necessary to be moving; it was dreary work as we rode along the dreary path to Drinnon’s;fu47 one of my companions, as well as myself, was unwell. From Drinnon’s we had still forty miles to go, over hills and mountains: this I think, equalled, if not exceeded, any road I had ever travelled: we at length reached Tygers Valley. We stopped at Capt. Shannon’s,fu48 where there were several families crowded together, for fear of the Indians. The upper end of the valley has been depopulated, one family has been destroyed since I was last here. The Captain’s wife was decent, kind, and sensible. Thence we went on to Wilson’s,fu49 where I got some fowl soup; thence a few miles to Maxwell’s, where the woman of the house was kind and attentive; but a still, a mill, a store, cause much company and some not of the most agreeable kind.

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We hasted to Osman’s in the Cove, where we met with a most kind and affectionate reception. But O the flies for the horses, and the gnats for the men! And no food, nor even good water to be had. I slept well, although forced, ever and anon, to stir a little.

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We had a dreary path, over desperate hills, for fifty miles; no food for man or beast, which caused both begin to fail very sensibly: my bowels continued to be disordered, and had I not procured a little wine, I suppose I should have failed altogether.

PENNSYLVANIA

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Both men and horses travelled sore and wearily to

Uniontown. O how good are clean houses, plentiful tables, and populous villages, when compared with the rough world we came through! Here I turned out our poor horses to pasture and to rest, after riding them for nearly three hundred miles in eight days.

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Wrote letters to send over the mountains.

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I began to feel lame, and had a severe touch of the

rheumatism, accompanied with a high fever, which occasioned great pain to me while sitting in conference.fu50 I found it necessary to remove, by exchange, six of the preachers from this to the eastern district.

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Having been too unwell to attend preaching through the week, I now ventured in public: a great crowd of people attended, and there was some melting and moving among them. I feel the death of this district; I see what is wanting here—discipline, and the preaching a present and full salvation, and the enforcement of the doctrine of sanctification. I have been variously tried, and was constrained to be cheerful.

We have founded a seminary of learning called Union School;fu51 brother Charles Conaway is manager, who also has charge of the district: this establishment is designed for instruction in grammar, languages, and the sciences.

I have had some awful thoughts lest my lameness should grow upon me, and render me useless. I sometimes have fears that I am too slack in speaking in public, at conferences; I also feel the want of time and places to pursue my practice of solitary prayer, being frequently obliged to ride all the day and late at night, that I may in time reach the appointed places to preach.

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We ascended Laurel hill, and after forty miles’ riding reached M——’s, quite weary. Came to I. C——’s, and found the Lord was still in this house: I preached, and felt a melting heart, and there was some move in the congregation. I find myself recruited in body and mind; and I feel as if God would work once more amongst this people.

I was informed that Mr. Hammett had sent abroad circular letters, and had been railing against the presiding eldership, &c. I am not surprised that he should find fault with the office—its duties he was a man not likely to fulfill; yet had it not been for the power attached to it, how greatly might Mr. Hammett have confused the society in Charleston, and perplexed the preachers in the district! The Lord will see to his own house. MARYLAND

I preached at Fort Cumberland, in our new house to many people.fu52 Dined with Mr. D——, at whose house I was entertained the first time I visited this town: O that each of the family may be everlastingly saved! It is now three years since I came down this road. Swift-winged time, O how it flies! My body is in better health, and my soul in great peace; I feel no wrong temper. O that my whole heart might be running out in holiness after God!

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We had a solemn meeting, whilst I enlarged on, “Blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it.” It was a good season. WEST VIRGINIA

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Rode to Bath. Here I had the opportunity of writing to all the connected preachers in the district.

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In the evening I preached with some assistance on Luke 19:10.

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I attended quarterly meeting at the widow Flint’s. Here I had the first sight of Mr. Hammett’s and brother Thos. Morrell’s attacks on each other—or rather Mr. Hammett’s against the Methodists, and brother Morrell’s reply. Had brother Morrell known more, he would have replied better. Mr. Hammett’sfu53 quotation of a clause in my confidential letter to brother Shadford, is not altogether just. He has also misquoted the caution, leaving out the word “District,” which, when retained, shows it to have been American, and to have been directed against American apostates and impostors.

Sabbath day, 24. We had a living love feast, although the house was crowded, and warm, almost past sufferance.

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I had a sweet opening at the quarterly meeting, on

Ephesians 2:12. I met the preachers, leaders, and stewards, and they resolved to enter more fully into the spirit of discipline. Next day I preached on, “My Spirit shall not always strive with man.” Rode twenty-two miles to Shepherdstown,fu54 weary and warm; the people were waiting, and I began on “An adulterous and sinful generation.’’ This is a poor place for religion.

PENNSYLVANIA

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I rode nearly fifty miles through excessive heat, and felt somewhat like Jonah.

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I was taken up with writing letters, having received accounts from Cokesbury. The college seems to be the weighty concern for the present.

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I had heavy work; no freedom at Daniel Worley’s,fu55 nothing will do here but discipline. I felt my spirit much humbled before the Lord, and a willingness to suffer.

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Rode to Abraham Keaggy;fu56 it was the harvest home. I feel it my duty to press the people of God to go on to holiness of heart and life. As the next morning was rainy, we stayed until the afternoon, and then rode to see our old brother Martin Boehm.fu57 We had a tender, feeling season on 1 John 1:8, on Salvation from all sin. At Strasburg, in the afternoon, we had a solemn meeting; a young woman, who was married a few minutes before worship began, was powerfully struck under the word, and wept greatly. O may she mourn until her second marriage takes place in her soul!

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We had a long ride to Morgantown:fu58 we came in at eleven o’clock, being much fatigued. I discoursed on the likeness between Moses and Christ, in the academical church.fu59 This building is well designed for a school and a church. I directed Esquire Morgan to one of our local preachers as a teacher.

We set out for Coventry Forge,fu60 but we missed our way, and came to brother Meredith’s, in the valley.fu61 I prayed heartily for, and spoke plainly to, the young people. O that the Lord would follow them powerfully!

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This day my soul enjoyed the presence of God. I dined at Radnor,fu62 and went into Philadelphia.

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I preached at Ebenezer churchfu63 on James 4:8; at St. George’s church on Mark 8:38. I had large accounts from the eastward, and am requested to send them more preachers. After twenty years’ standing of the house in our hands, the galleries are put up in our old new church.

Monday and Tuesday, 9, 10. Employed in reading and writing. I wish to be alone. O how sweet is solitude!

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I sought and obtained peace between two brethren who had, unhappily, been at variance.

NEW JERSEY

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Rode through great heat and dust to Burlington, New

Jersey. Here I had many of my old, and some new hearers: but some are much wiser than they were twenty years ago. We had a cold time of it, whilst I spoke on Hebrews 4:7.

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After preaching at ——’s, we rode on to brother Hancock’s.fu64 He is resolved that after he and his wife are served, the remainder of his whole estate shall go to the Church; his plantation to be rented, and the annual income to be applied as the conference held for Pennsylvania and the Jerseys shall please to direct.

NEW YORK

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Preached at our church on Staten Island.fu65 I was very close on the law and the Gospel—a few felt; but it was a dry time. Lord, help us!

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We hasted to Van Duzer’sfu66 ferry; but found ourselves

detained by the absence of both boats, so that we did not so soon as we expected reach New York. I did not find that life and harmony here that have been in times past.fu67 I have just now obtained and am reading Mr. Wesley’s Life, the work of Dr. Coke and Mr. Moore, containing five hundred and forty-two pages. It is in general well compiled; but the history of American Methodism is inaccurate in some of its details, and in some which are interesting. For some days past I have been occupied in reading, and in meeting the several women’s classes, and found the Lord was amongst them.

As very probably all of my life which I shall be able to write will be found in my journal, it will not be improper to relate something of my earlier years, and to give a brief account of my first labours in the ministry. I was born in Old England, near the foot of Hampstead Bridge, in the parish of Handsworth, about four miles from Birmingham, in Staffordshire, and according to the best of my after-knowledge on the 20th or 21st day of August, in the year of our Lord 1745.

My father’s name was Joseph, and my mother’s, Elizabeth Asbury: they were people in common life; were remarkable for honesty and industry, and had all things needful to enjoy; had my father been as saving as laborious, he might have been wealthy. As it was, it was his province to be employed as a farmer and gardener by the two richest families in the parish. My parents had but two children—a daughter, called Sarah, and myself. My lovely sister died in infancy; she was a favourite, and my dear mother being very affectionate, sunk into deep distress at the loss of a darling child, from which she was not relieved for many years. It was under this dispensation that God was pleased to open the eyes of her mind, she living in a very dark, dark, dark day and place. She now began to read almost constantly when leisure presented the opportunity. When a child, I thought it strange my mother should stand by a large window poring over a book for hours together. From my childhood I may say, I have neither

“—dared an oath, nor hazarded a lie.”

The love of truth is not natural, but the habit of telling it I acquired very early; and so well was I taught, that my conscience would never permit me to swear profanely. I learned from my parents a certain form of words for prayer, and I well remember my mother strongly urged my father to family reading and prayer; the singing of psalms was much practised by them both. My foible was the ordinary foible of children—fondness for play; but I abhorred mischief and wickedness, although my mates were amongst the vilest of the vile for lying, swearing, fighting, and whatever else boys of their age and evil habits were likely to be guilty of: from such society I very often returned home uneasy and melancholy; and although driven away by my better principles, still I would return, hoping to find happiness where I never found it. Sometimes I was much ridiculed, and called Methodist Parson, because my mother invited any people who had the appearance of religion to her house.

I was sent to school early, and began to read the Bible between six and seven years of age, and greatly delighted in the historical part of it. My schoolmaster was a great churl, and used to beat me cruelly; this drove me to prayer, and it appeared to me, that God was near to me. My father having but the one son, greatly desired to keep me at school, he cared not how long: but in this design he was disappointed; for my master, by his severity, had filled me with such horrible dread, that with me anything was preferable to going to school. I lived some time in one of the wealthiest and most ungodly families we had in the parish: here I became vain, but not openly wicked. Some months after this I returned home; and made my choice, when about thirteen years and a half old to learn a branch of business at which I wrought about six years and a half: during this time I enjoyed great liberty, and in the family was treated more like a son or an equal than an apprentice.

Soon after I entered on that business, God sent a pious man, not a Methodist, into our neighbourhood, and my mother invited him to our house; by his conversation and prayers, I was awakened before I was fourteen years of age. It was now easy and pleasing to leave my company, and I began to pray morning and evening, being drawn by the cords of love, as with the bands of a man. I soon left our blind priest, and went to West Bromwich church: here I heard Ryland, Stillingfleet, Talbot, Bagnall, Mansfield, Hawes, and Venn—great names, and esteemed Gospel ministers. I became very serious; reading a great deal—Whitefield and Cennick’s Sermons, and every good book I could meet with. It was not long before I began to inquire of my mother who, where, what were the Methodists: she gave me a favourable account, and directed me to a person that could take me to Wednesbury to hear them. I soon found this was not the Church—but it was better. The people were so devout—men and women kneeling down—saying Amen. Now, behold! they were singing hymns—sweet sound! Why, strange to tell! the preacher had no prayer- book, and yet he prayed wonderfully! What was yet more extraordinary, the man took his text, and had no sermon-book: thought I, this is wonderful indeed! It is certainly a strange way, but the best way. He talked about confidence, assurance, &c.—of which all my flights and hopes fell short. I had no deep convictions, nor had I committed any deep known sins. At one sermon, some time after, my companion was powerfully wrought on: I was exceedingly grieved that I could not weep like him; yet I knew myself to be in a state of unbelief. On a certain time when we were praying in my father’s barn, I believed the Lord pardoned my sins and justified my soul; but my companions reasoned me out of this belief, saying, “Mr. Mather said a believer was as happy as if he was in heaven.” I thought I was not as happy as I would be there, and gave up my confidence, and that for months; yet I was happy, free from guilt and fear, and had power over sin, and felt great inward joy. After this, we met for reading and prayer, and had large and good meetings, and were much persecuted, until the persons at whose houses we held them were afraid, and they were discontinued. I then held meetings frequently at my father’s house, exhorting the people there, as also at Sutton Coldfield, and several souls professed to find peace through my labours. I met class awhile at Bromwich Heath, and met in band at Wednesdury. I had preached some months before I publicly appeared in the Methodist meeting houses; when my labours became more public and extensive, some were amazed, not knowing how I had exercised elsewhere. Behold me now a local preacher!—the humble and willing servant of any and of every preacher that called on me by night or by day; being ready, with hasty steps, to go far and wide to do good, visiting Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and indeed almost every place within my reach, for the sake of precious souls; preaching, generally, three, four, and five times a week, and at the same time pursuing my calling. I think, when I was between twenty-one and twenty-two years of age I gave myself up to God and his work, after acting as a local preacher near the space of five years. It is now the 19th of July, 1792: I have been labouring for God and souls about thirty years, or upwards.

Some time after I had obtained a clear witness of my acceptance with God, the Lord showed me, in the heat of youth and youthful blood, the evil of my heart: for a short time I enjoyed, as I thought, the pure and perfect love of God; but this happy frame did not long continue, although, at seasons, I was greatly blessed. Whilst I was a travelling preacher in England, I was much tempted, finding myself exceedingly ignorant of almost everything a minister of the Gospel ought to know. How I came to America, and the events which have happened since, my journal will show.

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Yesterday I preached in New York, on, “Who is on the

Lord’s side?” I had some life in speaking, but there was little move in the congregation. O Lord, hasten a revival of thy work! This city has been agitated about the choice of Governor:fu68 it would be better for them all to be on the Lord’s side. The standard is set up—who declares for the Lord? The wicked; the carnal professors; carnal ministers, and apostates, are the Lord’s enemies.

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Was a melting time with many hearts in the old church: my subject, 1 John 1:6, 7. In the afternoon, although very unwell, I laboured hard in the new church, but the people were exceedingly insensible. There was a little shaking under brother Hope Hullfu69 in the old church in the evening.

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We set out for Lynn, and made our way through Bedford, riding fifty miles the first day: I prayed in four houses,fu70 and felt much given up on the way.

CONNECTICUT

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Rain to-day: after which, we came to Redding; and although it was late, and the evening damp, I was unwilling to omit the opportunity of speaking to the people. Brother Hope Hull, my fellow-traveller, went to bed very ill. God has wrought in this town: the spirit of prayer is amongst the people; and several souls have been brought to God.

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We came to Newtown and fed—thence to Waterbury:

brother Hull is still very ill. Here we were entertained kindly, and at small charges; the people submitted, and were attentive to prayer. Thence we continued on to Southerington: we dined at a public house, where we had cheap, good, plain usage: our host told us, “It was the misfortune of the Methodists to fall in with some of the most ignorant, poor, and disreputable people in the State.” My answer was: the poor have the Gospel preached to them—that it had been aforetime asked, “Have any of the rulers believed on him?”

Came to the city of Hartford, and thence went on to East Hartford. I was alarming on Revelation 21:8: brother Hull is still very sick; and for my poor self, I am tempted to fretfulness; but by grace I was kept in peace, and blessed in speaking. The next day we came through the extreme heat to Stafford, and attended a quarterly meeting, where we had a crowd of people in a new, open house: I was very unwell, and much tempted, but I had good liberty in preaching; my subject was Colos. 2:6: on Sunday I was very pointed on Romans 1:18.

There has been a work in Tolland circuit: I suppose one hundred and fifty souls have been converted, and twice the number under awakenings in different societies around: I felt very solemn among them. Brothers Smith and Raynorfu71 have been owned of the Lord in these parts. MASSACHUSETTS

We came through Ashford, Pomfret, Menden, and Douglass: we lodged at a tavern, where the people were very obliging, and attentive to prayer: thence we rode to Medfield’s to dinner; thence through Dover, Newton, Cambridge, Malden, to Lynn; which we reached about midnight, having travelled sixty-five miles—my soul, meanwhile, continually filled with the goodness of God.

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Our conference met, consisting of eight preachers,

much united, beside myself. In Lynn, we have the outside of a house completed; and what is best of all, several souls profess to be converted to God. I preached on 1 John 4:1-6, and had some life, but was too formal. There was preaching every night through the sitting of the conference.

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I preached an ordination sermon to a very solemn

congregation, on 2 Corinthians 3:5.

Sabbath morning, 5. I preached on 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20. In the afternoon brother Allenfu72 preached; and I afterward gave them a farewell exhortation, and there were some affectionate feelings excited amongst the people. Many were moved, and felt a great desire to speak in the love feast, but they had not courage. O that we had more apostolical preaching.

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We took leave of town, making a hasty flight. We dined at Cambridge. The rain drove us for shelter under the hospitable roof of Mr. Howfu73; the kind family here accepted of family worship.

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We came through Brookfield and Shrewsbury to Worchester; after resting, we briskly pursued our way to Brookfield.fu74 We found that we had stopped at the wrong house: some wicked labouring young men were intoxicated, singing psalms and song tunes for their amusement; one man railed on, and cursed us because he was not told all he wanted to know.

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We came to Belcher Town, and were kindly entertained at

W——’s: thence we pushed on to Hadley, crossed Connecticut River, and stopped at Northampton. Ah! where is the blessedness of which we formerly heard in this place? I inquired of our host, but received little satisfactory information. I proposed prayer, but found it was not well received. I went to bed weary and unwell; and about half-past six o’clock next morning set out again over the rocks and uneven roads, across the mountain, having passed through Worthington, Chesterfield, and Partridgefield (Partridge).fu75 I wondered to see the people settled here so thickly, among the rocks, where the soil can only be cultivated by the iron hand of active, laborious industry: I should prefer any part of the Alleghany where it is not too rocky, because the land is better. We made it nearly forty miles to Pittsfield; and our journey was more disagreeable from the falling of a heavy shower. We have now ridden about one hundred and seventy miles from Lynn in four days. My mind has been variously exercised, and my body much fatigued: if I have been kept from sin, to the Lord’s name be all the glory! Pittsfield is a pleasant plain, extending from mountain to mountain; the population may consist of two thousand souls. There is a grand meeting house and steeple, both as white and glistening as Solomon’s temple. The minister, as I learn, is on the New Divinity plan. I heard the experience of one of the first settlers in the town, who was clearly brought out of bondage; but by resting in unfailing perseverance, he again grew cold: of late he has been stirred up and restored by the instrumentality of the Methodists. I was pleased to enjoy the privilege of retiring alone to the cooling sylvan shades in frequent converse with my best Friend.

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We held our meeting in a noble house, built for Baptists, Separatists, or somebody, and is now occupied by the Methodists. There was a large and attentive congregation, and some melting amongst the people, with whom the Lord is at work.

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I was so unwell, that I concluded not to go to meeting, but was at last persuaded along. I felt enlargement in preaching, and the people were tender and attentive. It has been said, “The Eastern people are not to be moved”: it is true, they are too much accustomed to hear systematical preaching to be moved by a systematical sermon, even from a Methodist; but they have their feelings, and touch but the right string, and they will be moved. I became weary of staying three days in one house; Mr. Stevensfu76 was very kind, his wife was under heavy heart-awakenings. NEW YORK

We set out and came to Lebanonfu77 in the State of New York. The medical waters here are warm and very soft; pure and light, with no small quantity of fixed air. I found a poor bath house. Here the devil’s tents are set up, and as is common at these his encampments, his children are doing his drudgery. I baptized F——’s child: he and his wife came out from amongst the Shakers, where they had lived in celibacy many years. At the request of the people, notwithstanding my barrenness at brother Williams’s,fu78 I delivered a discourse on 1 Peter 3:15; my audience appeared to be strangers to our way. Mr. K——a, a Presbyterian minister, bore his testimony in favour of the word delivered, and recommended it to his people. We then came to Bethlehemfu79 and the next day I preached at the house of a Baptist to about three hundred people: it was a searching, moving time. I also baptized and administered the Lord’s supper; I then went a small distance to lodge, but I felt not myself at home, the worship of God not being in the house. I now began to bring up my reading in the New Testament.

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Came to Albany, and had a joyful, happy conference,

twenty-one preachers being present. We constituted two deacons and four elders. Each preacher was called upon to speak of his exercises and observations since our last annual session: we examined our doctrines, and whether our faith was still firm in those which were believed and taught amongst us. We appointed Jonathan Newmanfu80 as a missionary to the whites and Indians on the frontiers. We also sent another to Cataraqui.fu81 Before we rose, we propounded a few questions of theology namely,

1. How are we to deal with sinners?

2. How should we treat with mourners?

3. Which way should we address hypocrites?

4. How can we deal with backsliders?

5. What is best for believers?

We had preaching in the market-houses in Albany; and notwithstanding our hurry and crowd we were happy, and had living testimonies from preachers and people. I trust two hundred have been converted in the district since last conference.

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I came to Coeyman’s Patent, and had a degree of light in preaching in the new church on Ephesians 1:18, 19. After preaching we hasted to Hudson, thirty-two miles. On our way we called on a friend whose wretched wife had made an attempt to poison him and two others by strewing bane on the meat they ate:fu82 the dose wrought so powerfully that they threw it up; and so she, Satan, and hell, were all disappointed. I lodged with brother Waldron:fu83 he and his wife were kind, dear souls to me, when sick here last year—now I am well: praise the Lord, O my soul! I had to ride thirty-five miles to Rhinebeck; the weather was extremely warm and dry. We hasted along, and arriving a little before five o’clock, found the people waiting. I preached in a school house, which, by enlargement, makes a good church, so called.

I had reason to fear, from former and later information, that brother Hallock was not as useful nor as acceptable here as I could wish: from a sense of duty I mentioned this to him with great tenderness. At first, it proved some trial to him; but when brother Garrettson and brother Moriarty confirmed what I had said, and I assured him that a desire to promote the cause of God was the only motive that led me to mention this to him, he resumed his former cheerfulness, and we parted in peace.fu84 It was appointed for me to preach at a place forty-five miles distantfu85; but the weather being extremely warm, and our horses weary, we did not get in until eight o’clock, in consequence of which many people were disappointed.

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I breakfasted at Governor Van Cortlandt’s.fu86 I feel as if the Lord had been striving here.

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Came to the quarterly meeting at New Rochelle. The Lord gave light and liberty in speaking. We had a meeting with the local preachers, stewards, and leaders who were present. Mr. Hammett’s rejoinder has made its appearance. N. Manners has also come to town, to spread his doctrine and distribute his books: were he a gracious man, I cannot think he would write as he does against Mr. Wesley and Mr. Fletcher. Perhaps he will find it rather easier to write and print books, than to sell and pay the cost of publishing them.

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I preached to a vast congregation, with liberty, on 1 Corinthians 3:15, 16. Many hearts were touched, and we had a blessed season at love feast and sacrament.

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Came to New York, and opened conference,fu87 twenty-eight preachers being present. We spent most of the afternoon in prayer; and nearly all the preachers gave an account of what each one had seen and felt since last conference. The young gave us their experience, and there were several who professed sanctification. Awful Hammett haunted us one day, requesting us to give him an honourable discharge from the connexion; but we shall publish him expelled—he is the Wheatley of America.

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We had a solemn love feast, the lower floor of the house being nearly filled: several of the brethren professed perfect love; others had lost the witness.

My mind has been so bent to the business of the conference, that I have slept but little this week. Connecticut is supplied much to my mind, several very promising young men having been admitted to this conference. The societies are in harmony, but not as lively as they ought to be. I went to hear Dr. Livingston,fu88 but was greatly disappointed: he had such a rumbling voice that I could understand but little in that great house. How elegant the building! How small the appearance of religion! Lord, have mercy upon the Reformed Churches! O ye dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! I was much obliged to my friend for renewing my clothing and giving me a little pocket money; this is better than £500 per annum. I told some of our preachers, who were very poor, how happy they were; and that probably, had they more, their wants would proportionately increase. My soul is humble, and by grace is kept holy: I do the best I can, and leave the event to the Lord; if others do wrong, they must answer for themselves now, and at the day of judgment.

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I preached a preparatory sermon on 1 Corinthians 5:71

Corinthians 5:7, 8, previously to the administration of the sacrament. It was observed what a fitness of similarity there was between the passover and the supper of the Lord. The simplicity and purity of the latter—bread, instead of the flesh of an animal, and wine instead of the blood of the creature; wine, the blood of Christ, and grace the life of our souls. It was shown who were proper communicants—true penitents and real believers. Not with the leaven of malice and wickedness—acid, bitter, and puffing up, but the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth—uprightness of heart, and sound experience.

I now leave New York for one whole year, under the hope and prophecy that this will be a year of the Lord’s power with them. NEW JERSEY

We had severe crossing the North River;fu89 it was as much as ever the horses could do to keep their feet. We came to Newark, and thence to Elizabethtown, in Jersey. I now began to unbend my mind, and became very heavy. I went upstairs, sat in my chair, rested my head, and slept solidly; but a kind friend would have me waked, which made me sick.

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I pursued my journey through Woodbridge, and came to Brunswick. The weather was very warm; the roads dusty, and our journeys long. We reached Milford town in the evening. PENNSYLVANIA

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Passed through Crosswicks and Burlington, and came to Philadelphia: I found I was too late, the preachers having waited a day for me to come and open the conference.

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We had great peace in our conference. The preachers gave a feeling account of the work of God. We had more preachers than we needed this time; both they and the people were lively: most of our brethren in the ministry can now stand the greatest exertions. Sabbath morning, 9. We had a melting love feast; the mouths of many were opened to declare the loving kindness of the Lord. I preached, but did not like their ill-contrived house. At Ebenezer I had an attentive congregation, to whom I spoke on Philippians 1:18. At night the mobility came in like the roaring of the sea: boys were around the doors, and the streets were in an uproar. They had been alarmed by a shout the night before, which, probably, was one cause of the congregation being so large. Brother Armstrongfu90 went to prayer; a person cried out; brother Clementsfu91 joined in prayer; the wicked were collected to oppose. I felt the powers of darkness were very strong. After ending my discourse, brother Moselyfu92 rose up and mentioned the shocking conduct he had observed among them; fighting, swearing, threatening, &c. But where are the watchmen? asleep. Where are the magistrates? dozing at home. This is a wicked, horribly wicked city; and if the people do not reform, I think they will be let loose upon one another, or else God will send pestilence amongst them, and slay them by hundreds and thousands: the spirit of prayer has departed, and the spiritual watchmen have ceased to cry aloud among all sects and denominations; for their unfaithfulness they will be smitten in anger: for sleepy silence in the house of God, which ought to resound with the voice of praise and frequent prayer, the Lord will visit their streets with the silence of desolation.

DELAWARE

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I left Philadelphia, dined at Chester, and preached at

Wilmington in the evening. The next day I rode to Duck Creek Cross Roads, State of Delaware, to hold conference. We were full of business, and had life and liberty. I met the leaders and local brethren in the ministry, and we had a powerful time. I requested them to give an account of their past and present experience; the state of their respective families; and the classes they had the charge of, together with the prospects of religion where they lived: they understood me, and spoke much to the purpose. We parted with a good love feast, from which the gay and the worldly, at least, were excluded, if we did not keep out sinners, Pharisees, and hypocrites.

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Rode to Camden. To Dr. Barrett,fu93 a true son of a worthy father, we are chiefly indebted for a neat, economical meeting house. I had so many friends I knew not where to go. My attendance on conferences and quarterly meetings has lately been so constant, I found it expedient to make a sudden change and come home. In my way I stopped at a friend’s house: the woman had been early a member; the man, not of us; I pressed family prayer upon her from Divine authority; I saw her tears and heard her promises. Came home to Thomas White’s. I resolved on the establishment of a prayer meeting for the women before I go hence. I have felt my soul greatly quickened of late to bear and suffer all things, and to feel nothing but love: if we are tried by Christian people, it is chiefly for want of grace or knowledge in them, or us, or both; they are objects of pity, not of anger. This day is spent in reading, writing, meditation, and prayer. To be retired and solitary is desirable after the presence of crowds, and the labours, various and unceasing, to which I am called: when our Lord was pursued by the people, he, as a man, would hide himself. I thought, if my brethren would not spare me, I must spare myself.

I have been reading Doctor Langdon on the Revelation,fu94 and find little new or very spiritual; he is like the Newtons and all the historical interpreters—one thing is wanting. And might not an interpreter show the present time foretold by these signs, which plainly point to the why and wherefore it is, that some are Christian bishops and Christian dissertators on prophecy? A bishopric with one, or two, or three thousand sterling a year as an appendage, might determine the most hesitating in their choice: I see no reason why a heathen philosopher, who had enough of this world’s wisdom to see the advantages of wealth and honours, should not say, “Give me a bishopric and I will be a Christian.” In the Eastern states also there are very good and sufficient reasons for the faith of the favoured ministry. Ease, honour, interest: what follows? idolatry, superstition, death.

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Continued at Judge White’s, and spoke a few words to a few people.

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We came to Milford, and had a solemn time on

Genesis 6:3. Here I held a conference with the local preachers, and was pleased at the accounts they gave of their prospects of religion in their neighbourhoods.

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We had a moving feast of charity, and a close, searching time in public; my subject, 2 Timothy 3:20, 21.fu95

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I came to Broad Creek with a heavy heart. We had a blessed time in the love feast; many souls had longings for sanctification, and some boldly professed it. I felt as if it would be long before I should again visit this house. A poor man attempted to come near me; being encouraged by my speaking to him, he approached, and told me, with a full heart, that about that time, five years past, the Lord spoke through me to his conviction, at Moore’s chapel.

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Attended quarterly meeting at Myle’s chapel, where I met with a few serious people: the second day we had a few Church folks— something wild.

VIRGINIA

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Crossed Pocomoke to Long’s (in Maryland): at Downing’s

at night. Brother Everett was sick. I had a large congregation at Garrettson chapel; and was much blessed on Romans 8:29, 30. I had a comfortable conference with the leaders, stewards, local preachers, and exhorters; and we had a living love feast.

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We had a crowded congregation and some melting amongst the people while I enlarged on, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” 1. I endeavoured to point out the genuine marks of a Christian:

2. Remove the objection against these marks; and 3. Persuade by applying to the hopes and fears of my hearers.

MARYLAND

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I had a kind of chill and headache, and was very

unwell; yet I rode about forty miles to Littleton Long’s. I went quick to bed. I attended the quarterly meeting in Dorset on the last day. We had few people. Thence to Henry Ennall’s, where young sister Kanefu96 was struck with conviction at family prayer. She followed us to quarterly meeting, at Easton, under deep distress; and returning, found peace where she found conviction three days before. We had great plainness, and were much stirred up in the conference with our local brethren. The congregation was large the second day, and the people were more quiet than common— perhaps because we were so.

Thence we rode to Choptank, now Greensboro, and preached on Ephesians 2:17; and some power went through the house. I had a good conference with the local brethren; making close inquiries relative to themselves, their families, and the societies to which they respectively belong.

I stopped a day at Judge White’s, and read in haste the most essential parts of “Jefferson’s Notes.”fu97 I have thought, it may be I am safer to be occasionally among the people of the world, than wholly confined to the indulgent people of God. He who sometimes suffers from a famine will the better know how to relish a feast.

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We had many gracious souls at John Boardley’s barn. I was greatly weakened by preaching; but I hope souls were spiritually strengthened. We had a gracious season in conference with the local brethren, men who felt for the cause of God. Two professed to find the Lord; and it was said two were awakened the first evening of the quarterly meeting.

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We had a great love feast, the women led the way. I preached on, “Thou knowest not the time of thy visitation.” A larger or more attentive congregation has not, perhaps, been seen in these parts. I feel more than ever the necessity of preaching sanctification.

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Rode to Chestertown. Here I was warmly importuned to

preach; and submitting to the desire of my friends, I enlarged on 1 John 2:18, and was very pointed and alarming, at which some were offended.

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Rode to Back Creek. Being detained at the ferry, I did not get in until after night, which made me unwell.

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Rode to Cokesbury. All is not well here.

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I came to Baltimore. Here I only stopped to feed myself and horses, and then proceeded on to Thomas Cromwell’s,fu98 and had a little rest and peace.

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Contrary to my wish, I was constrained to ride to Annapolis, which I reached about eleven o’clock, and gave them a sermon on 1 Peter 3:18, with some help and liberty.

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We opened our district conference in great peace and love; and so it ended.

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Came to Baltimore in a storm of rain. Whilst we were sitting in the room at Mr. Philip Rogers’s, in came Dr. Coke,fu99 of whose arrival we had not heard, and whom we embraced with great love.

I felt awful at the General Conference,fu100 which began November 1, 1792. At my desire they appointed a moderator, and preparatory committee, to keep order and bring forward the business with regularity. We had heavy debates on the first, second, and third sections of our form of discipline. My power to station the preachers without an appeal was much debated, but finally carried by a very large majority.fu101 Perhaps a new bishop, new conference, and new laws would have better pleased some. I have been much grieved for others, and distressed with the burden I bear, and must hereafter bear. O, my soul, enter into rest! Ah, who am I, that the burden of the work should lie on my heart, hands, and head?

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Having taken cold, and had my rest broken, I went to bed to bring on a free perspiration; and from this I received relief, my soul breathed unto God; and I was exceedingly happy in his love. Some individuals among the preachers having their jealousies about my influence in the conference, I gave the matter wholly up to them, and to Dr. Coke, who presided. Meantime I sent them the following letter:—fu102 MY DEAR BRETHREN:—Let my absence give you no pain—Dr. Coke presides. I am happily excused from assisting to make laws by which myself am to be governed: I have only to obey and execute. I am happy in the consideration that I never stationed a preacher through enmity, or as a punishment. I have acted for the glory of God, the good of the people, and to promote the usefulness of the preachers. Are you sure that, if you please yourselves, the people will be as fully satisfied? They often say, “Let us have such a preacher;” and sometimes, “we will not have such a preacher—we will sooner pay him to stay at home.” Perhaps I must say, “his appeal forced him upon you.” I am one—ye are many. I am as willing to serve you as ever. I want not to sit in any man’s way. I scorn to solicit votes. I am a very trembling, poor creature to hear praise or dispraise. Speak your minds freely; but remember, you are only making laws for the present time. It may be, that as in some other things, so in this, a future day may give you further light. I am yours, &c.

FRANCIS ASBURY.

I am not fond of altercations—we cannot please everybody—and sometimes not ourselves. I am resigned.

Mr. James O’Kelly,fu103 being disappointed in not getting an appeal from any station made by me, withdrew from the connexion, and went off. For himself, the conference well knew he could not complain of the regulation. He had been located to the south district of Virginia for about ten succeeding years; and upon his plan, might have located himself, and any preacher, or set of preachers, to the district, whether the people wished to have them or not.

The general conference went through the Discipline, Articles of Faith, Forms of Baptism, Matrimony, and the Burial of the Dead; as also the Offices of Ordination. The conference ended in peace, after voting another general conference to be held four years hence. By desire of my brethren, I preached once on 1 Peter 3:8. My mind was kept in peace, and my soul enjoyed rest in the Stronghold.

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I was comforted at the women’s class meeting. I appointed

three prayer meetings for them, sisters Keener, Owings, and Fonderen,fu104 to be the leaders of them. If this is regularly attended to, I think good will follow.

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I left Baltimore, and, contrary to my first intention, called on the widow Rachel Hulings, whose daughter was awakened the last time I was here, and still continues to be happy in the Lord. I met the sisters here, and urged prayer meeting. Perhaps it was for this I unexpectedly came here.

VIRGINIA

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Brother Ira Ellis and myself came on to Georgetown, and thence to Alexandria, making a ride of forty miles. Here the preachers were waiting for the district conference.

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I preached in our small, neatly finished house.

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We had a close sitting in conference, and completed our work in one day.

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We set out southwardly. The day was very stormy, and we had a gale in crossing the river at Colchester,fu105 and came to our newly- made friend Ward’s, near Dumfries.fu106

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Six of us set out, and rode fifty-three miles to D.

Dickinson’s, in Caroline county—so much for an American episcopos. Travelling in such haste, I could not be as much in mental prayer as I desired; although I enjoyed many moments of sweet converse with God. The mischief has begun. Brother O’Kelly called here and vented his sorrows, and told what the General Conference had done. I was closely employed in reading “The Cure of Divisions,” and my Hebrew Bible.

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Came to Manchester, and preached in the afternoon, and felt life amongst the people and the preachers who were met for the district conference. I met the preachers in band, and found their fears were greatly removed: union and love prevailed, and all things went on well. W. M’Kendree and Rice Haggardfu107 sent me their resignation in writing. We agreed to let our displeased brethren still preach among us; and as Mr. O’Kelly is almost worn out, the conference acceeded to my proposal of giving him his forty pounds per annum,fu107* as when he travelled in the connexion, provided he was peaceable, and forbore to excite divisions among the brethren. The General Conference and the district conferences have kept us a long time from our work; but after all Satan’s spite, I think our sifting and shaking will be for good. I expect a glorious revival will take place in America, and thousands be brought to God.

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Came to Petersburg. Myself, and several others preached during our stay.

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I had a few attentive hearers at brother Bonner’s of whom I inquired, “Where is the blessedness ye spake of.”

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Rode fifteen miles to Graves’ chapels where we had a full house, and I felt life and love in speaking to the young people. I lodged with brother Graves and was very much moved to lay a plan for a district school.

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Preached at River’s chapel: cold house and languid people. Came to brother Cox’s in the evening. I am not conscious of inward or outward sin, yet I do not feel that inward life I wish. I have lately read our “Cure of Church Divisions,” and much of the word of God.

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Preached at Mabry’s chapel;fu108 and the next day at J. Mason’s, where we had a full house and a comfortable time.

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Rode through the rain to Edward Drumgoole’s: here I found

a few friends, and formed a constitution for a district school, which, with a little alteration, will form a general rule for any part of the continent.

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I once more visited Owen Myrick, whose wife is gone, and from all we can learn departed in a good old age, in triumph to glory the dear old man is much dispirited. We spent the evening together very solemnly, remembering the occurrences of nineteen years ago, now gone as yesterday—

“Short as the watch that ends the night

Before the rising sun.”

The cause of his slaves was not forgotten.

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I came once more to Roanoak chapel, and gave them a

discourse on Ephesians 2:13. Reuben and Ira Ellis gave an exhortation: I met the society. We then rode six miles, and got to our quarters about sunset.

NORTH CAROLINA

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We crossed Roanoak at Black’s ferry, and directed our

course for Lewisburg. We passed Warrington, and missed our way. We remembered the name of William Myrick, and inquiring after him, found he lived nearly on our way; we accordingly called on him, and were gladly received, and kindly entertained. Memory is good in distress: had we not housed here, we should have had our difficulties in getting to sister L—— ’s.

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Rode to Green Hill’s, near Louisburg. Here I met the preachers in conference, and we were closely employed until Saturday morning. We had about forty preachers from the two districts in North Carolina. Our labours finished, we rode to Neuse River.

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Preached at Merritt’s.

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Rode fifteen miles to S——’s: preached on Christ, the

believer’s wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. We had a difficult road in going to Haw River, but a kind Providence brought us along very well, although the weather was exceedingly cold: we crossed the stream by fording, about half-past eight o’clock, and about ten arrived at R——’s, very cold and in much pain. I know not why, but so it is, that I cannot feel that I hold such sweet communion with God in cold weather as in warm; it may be that—

“Nature being oppress’d,

Commands the mind to suffer with the body.”

The great love and union which prevailed at the late conference makes me hope many souls will be converted in the ensuing year: an account was brought in of the conversion of about three hundred souls last week within its limits—chiefly in the Lowland circuits. Glory be to God! I feel that he is with us; and I have good evidence that fifteen or eighteen hundred souls have professed to have been converted in the United States within the last twelve months. At Rainey’s, a congregation of willing, patient souls was called hastily together, to whom I preached on 2 Peter 1:4. I was led out on the corruption that is in the world, arising from three grand sources,—the lust of the flesh; the lust of the eye; and the pride of life.

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I was detained until about ten o’clock, and then rode on to S——’s, and dined: we then hastened on to Deep River, and lodged at Mr. B——’s. Lord, show kindness to those who have succoured me!

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I took a route along a new path below the Narrows of Pee

Dee; and after riding forty-five or fifty miles, came in, cold and hungry, about seven o’clock, and found a congregation waiting: I was fatigued, and could say but little to them.

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I rode thirty miles to Rocky River; had few to hear.

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The people were attentive and behaved well at Anson court house. In the evening we had a weary ride to brother Jackson’s. SOUTH CAROLINA

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We attended from ten till one o’clock in a house built of poles—here were light and ventilators plenty. We rode this evening twenty miles to Mr. Blakeney’sfu109: the rain caught us in the woods, and we were steeped. Arriving, we found a good house, table, and bed, which was some relief to weather-beaten pilgrims.

Christmas Eve. We rode in the rain twenty-five miles to our kind brother Horton’s,fu110 and found many people had gathered.

Christmas day. Although the weather was cold and damp, and unhealthy, with signs of snow, we rode forty-five miles to dear brother Rembert’sfu111—kind and good, rich and liberal, who has done more for the poor Methodists than any man in South Carolina. The Lord grant that he, with his whole household, may find mercy in that day.

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Preached at quarterly meeting on 1 Peter 4:13. I was pleased to hear the young men exhort and sing after sacrament. I felt uncommonly melted—tears involuntarily burst from my eyes. God was there.

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I had a long, cold ride of forty-five miles to brother Bowman’s,fu112 near Santee. I was overtaken on my way by rain mingled with hail which ended in snow, coveting the ground six or eight inches deep. The unfinished state of the houses, lying on the floor, thin clothing, and inclement weather keep me in a state of indisposition.

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We had to cross Santee, and ride thirty-five miles to dear sister Browning’s.fu113 The weather still very cold.

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Rode thirty-three miles to Charleston, and found our little flock in peace, and a small revival amongst them.

Mr. Hammett has raised a grand house, and has written an appeal to the British conference. He represents Dr. Coke as a sacrilegious tyrant and murderer. I have no doubt but the Doctor will be able to make good his cause. As to Hammett, time will show the man and the people who have made lies their refuge.fu114

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Brother Isaac Smithfu115 preached in the forenoon. In the afternoon I said a little on Isaiah 9:6, 7. The blacks were hardly restrained from crying out aloud. O that God would bless the wild and wicked inhabitants of this city! I am happy to find that our principal friends have increased in religion. Accounts from Philadelphia are pleasing—souls are converted to God. There is also a move in New York, and their numbers are daily increasing. On reviewing the labours of the last six weeks, I find we have rested about fourteen days at conferences, and ridden at least seven hundred miles.

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