1795

Being New Year’s day, I was called upon to

preach, unwell as I was, which I did on Psalms 90:12Psalm 90:12. We entered on the business of our conference, and continued until Wednesday, 7th. We had preaching every night during the sitting of conference. It was the request of the conference that I should preach them a sermon on Tuesday night; with which I complied, and made choice of Jeremiah 23:29-32. In times past I have endeavoured to keep on travelling all the year, but I now judge it meet to stay in Charleston a little longer and then take the field: yet it is with fear and trembling.

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Brothers I. C. and G.fb1 being about to leave the city, I gave place to them to perform the services of the Sabbath. I heard part of a discourse by Mr. Furmanfb2 on partial and total backsliding: I thought he spoke well, and that it was an excellent sermon; I doubt if he had more than seventy white hearers. A vast number in the city do not attend to the worship of God anywhere.

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The remaining members of the conference left the city.

Brother Brucefb3 and myself must now lay our shoulders to the work. I have my feelings and fears about staying in Charleston; but grace is sufficient: I wish to give my all to God; and whether I read, write, preach, or visit, to do it all to his glory; and to employ my precious time profitably. And am I yet alive, with death so near? How many of my friends in this city, and in other places, are gone into eternity! I hear very little from the preachers in the north.

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I had a comfortable season in the church, on the words of St. Paul to the Galatians: “Am I therefore become your enemy because I tell you the truth?” In this discourse I observed, how great was the affection between the Christian societies in ancient Galatia and St. Paul, until the Judaizing teachers came in among them. The province of Galatia was in Lesser Asia; and when the ancient Gauls, or Galatæ, wanted to extend their province, they penetrated through Italy and Greece, and went into Asia, and pillaged the country as far south as Babylon: but one hundred and twenty thousand being defeated by a handful of Jews; and Attalus, king of Pergamus, having forced them from his territory, they settled here. Among these the Gospel was planted by St. Paul, Acts 16:6; who had but just left the country when the schism began by means of the teachers of the ceremonial law. In this Church there have been a great number of bishops, and some councils, and Synods; but for near eight hundred years the tyranny of the Mohammedans, Saracens, and Turks, hath almost exterminated the very name of Christianity. I observed, 1. That there is a proper portion of truth which is applicable to every one’s case; 2. That it is a bad sign when a man is esteemed an enemy for telling the truth, as if falsehood alone were pleasing.

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I preached at brother Wells’s,fb4 on, “It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I might learn thy statutes”: this cannot be the language of any but gracious souls. Sinners think all these things are against them, and wonder what they have done more than others, that they are thus afflicted. I treated of afflictions of body and mind; personal and family; in the Church and in the state. Ah! my Lord, by whom shall Jacob arise, for he is very small?

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I preached in the morning on Exodus 20, the first and second commandments. In the afternoon, on the affliction and conversion of Manasseh, 2 Chronicles 33:12, 13. One young man behaved amiss, for which I reproved him: perhaps he might be among those in the evening who made a riot, broke the windows, and beat open the doors.

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I read Mr. Flavel on keeping the heart; where I found some weighty sayings. I preached in the evening and brother Bruce exhorted. Mr. —— came home with me, pleading and crying to God, and acknowledging his sin: who knoweth but he will turn, repent, and find mercy? The desperate wickedness of this people grieves and distresses my soul, so that I am almost in continual heaviness; yet, through grace, I trust I am kept from sin. I spent part of this week in writing and reviewing some explanatory notes on our form of discipline.

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I preached morning and afternoon. My soul, at seasons,

wadeth through deep waters for this city and society; it cannot, in my opinion, continue long in its present situation—perhaps a dispensation of mercy or judgment is near.

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I finished reading the History of the French Revolution, containing about eight hundred pages; and a surprising history it is. They have had heavy struggles with monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy; and have had martyrs of each and every form.

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I am sensible of not being enough in prayer; this gives me pain. There came on a violent, awful storm of rain, and what should I do upon the road in such weather? Charleston is, to me, one of the most serious places I ever was in.

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I was in a most distressed, gloomy state of body and mind. I employed myself in reading, writing, and prayer—but very uncomfortably.

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“Still heavy is my heart,

Still sink my spirits down.”

I went to the church, and lectured on the second table of the law; attending particularly to our Lord’s comment on each precept. In the afternoon I enlarged on Jeremiah 31:33; and I do hope there was some stir in the hearts of the people: I had an afflictive night, by the labours of the day. I began reading “Berridge’s Christian World Unmasked.” How like the man and his conversation, which I heard by the hour thirty years ago! I think there is some tartness in his Christian remarks on the Checks, and dear Mr. Fletcher, of whom I have heard Mr. Berridge speak in terms of very great respect. I was insulted on the pavement with some as horrible sayings as could come out of a creature’s mouth on this side of hell. When I pray in my room with a few poor old women, those who walk the streets will shout at me. The unparalleled wickedness of the people of this place, and the spirit of contention among the professors of religion, most severely agitate my mind. I now spend my time in running hastily through the first volume of the Hebrew Bible.

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I was deeply dejected. I have been lately more subject to melancholy than for many years past; and how can I help it: the white and worldly people are intolerably ignorant of God; playing, dancing, swearing, racing; these are their common practices and pursuits. Our few male members do not attend preaching; and I fear there is hardly one who walks with God: the women and Africans attend our meetings, and some few strangers also. Perhaps it may be necessary for me to know how wicked the world is, in order that I may do more as a president minister. There is some similarity between my stay here and at Bath in Virginia. O how I should prize a quiet retreat in the woods!

In Mr. Wesley’s Journal, Vol. I, page 154, I find he observes, “I set myself carefully to read N. Machiavel’s celebrated book. I began,” says Mr. Wesley, “with a prejudice in his favour, having been often informed he had been misunderstood and greatly misrepresented; I weighed the sentiments it contained; compared one passage with another, and endeavoured to form a cool, impartial judgment; and my most deliberate judgment is, that if all the other doctrines of devils which have been committed to writing since letters were in the world were collected together in one volume, it would fall short of this; and should a prince form himself by this book, so openly recommending hypocrisy, treachery, lying, robbery, oppression, adultery, and murder of all kinds, Domitian or Nero would be angels of light compared to that man.” No wonder that Doctor —— should say that the Methodist preachers were men of true Machiavelian principles: judge, reader. This is the justice, this is the mercy, we are to expect from some priests: and why? because we spoil their reading trade.

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I preached on Psalms 8:4Psalm 8:4. Brother Bruce entertained us on, “That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” I met the society, read the Rules of Discipline, and gave a close talk about conformity to the world. I have now finished the first volume of Mr. Wesley’s Journal. I admire his candour and the soundness of his sentiments; but I need say but little, as it will be shortly published and speak for itself.

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The people have high work below stairs laid off for each day this week. The western regiment parades to-day, the eastern tomorrow; Wednesday is the President’s birth-day; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, come on the races. I intend to keep close to my room, except when attending meetings in the evenings. I am in the furnace; may I come out purified like gold! It is a dark Providence holds me here. Mr. Phillips is here, and in want of money. Our friends opened their hearts and gave him twenty or thirty dollars. He is not clear on Original Sin; so that we cannot, and dare not employ him; yet, notwithstanding his sentiments, I hope he is a good man: but, good or bad, he ought not to starve.

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I rode out to take the air; and saw the wandering air-balloon. I am persuaded there are gracious souls among Mr. Hammett’s people; some of whom have left him, and will, perhaps, return. I was employed in reading Mr. Wesley’s Journal; and I am now convinced of the great difficulty of journalizing. Mr. Wesley was, doubtless, a man of very general knowledge, learning, and reading, to which we may add a lively wit and humour; yet, I think I see too much credulity, long, flat narrations, and coarse letters taken from others, in his Journal: but when I come to his own thoughts, they are lively, sentimental, interesting, and instructing. The Journal of a minister of the Gospel should be theological: only it will be well to wink at many things we see and hear, since men’s feelings grow more and more refined.

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I had no small inflammation in my ear; yet after I got to preaching, I was long and loud, warm, and very pointed: our congregations are uncommonly large. I was recollecting by the help of Mr. Wesley’s Journal, how long it had been since I became acquainted with the Methodists. I was awakened (as I think), when about thirteen years six months old; at the age of sixteen I began to read and pray, in the public congregation; one year six months after this, publicly to exhort and expound God’s holy word; at twenty-one I travelled much; and in the beginning of my twenty-second year, I travelled altogether. I was nine months in Staffordshire, and other adjoining shires; two years in Bedfordshire circuit, and two in Salisbury circuit.

Mr. Wesley, in his Journal, seems to think that the cause of the hindrance of the work of God is wholly and entirely in man. But may we not ask, with reverence, hath not God sometimes, for his own purposes, withheld his power, that no flesh might glory in his sight, but feel that he is all in all?

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We had a love feast for the Africans, and many gave in

their experiences with life.

In the evening we had a love feast for the whites. I have had a long stay here, and now rejoice in the hope of going again into the field to work. Nothing would have kept me here but the hope of preserving my health the other ten months of the year; which will enable me to run through North and South Carolina, the New Territory, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Province of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and sometimes Kentucky.

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we observed as a general fast. I was weak in body and afflicted with the headache; yet I met the people in the church, and read Joel 2:12-18. I prayed; I wept before the Lord. I fasted from two o’clock on Thursday until half-past five on Friday. I wish we could have solemn monthly fasts, and love feasts before sacrament. I hope the Lord will look upon us generally throughout the continent, and take away our reproach. Mr. Wesley lived to see two general revivals of religion—one at the beginning, the other about thirty-six years ago; though, doubtless, they had generally a gradual growth of religion. We also have had two revivals— one at the beginning, the other about seven years ago. The third revival has now taken place in England, and I hope ours will soon follow.

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I attended the meeting of the stewards, and directed that each of the three stewards, in rotation, should receive and pay all moneys, for one third of the year, and then give place to another for the same time. I also appointed a clerk to attend particularly to the books.

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I preached in the forenoon and afternoon; and it was

thought the arrows of the Almighty flew abroad. We had a melting sacrament with white and coloured people: about half a dozen of Mr. Hammett’s people from Trinity attended. The people have had much dust cast in their eyes in this place, but now they begin to see more clearly. I am now about packing up in order to take my leave of this city. I am sure faithful preaching will be blest. I have effectually worn myself out, and I feared we should not have strength to ride over the barren sands. We accordingly set out, and rode twenty-two miles to G.’s; tried it since I have been here. My parting subject was 1 Corinthians 16:23, 24: the congregation was very large; and if the people are prudent and the preachers faithful, we shall have a work in this place. The poor Africans brought their blessings, and wishes, and prayers. Dear souls! May the Lord provide them pastors after his own heart!

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I left this seat of wickedness, not without both grief and joy. I never saw so great a prospect here, and doubt if there hath been such an one since the place was first settled. We crossed Ashly River about ten miles from town. Here was a bridge of value, which was so damaged by the worms and barnacles, that it stood only two years. Sister G., her family, and a wagon were on it when it gave way; it sunk with them into the water, but they received no injury. We rode thirty-five miles, eating some biscuit with a little wine and water, and came to Mr. Eccles’s,fb5 Beach Hill, near Edisto River. I was somewhat wearied, but happy in my solitary retreat. I think I have not spent my time in vain in Charleston. First, I have had near as many hearers as I could have found in the country. Secondly, there hath been real fruit among the white and coloured people; and such as may, with care, be preserved. I gave them a sermon at Squire Eccles’s near two hours long. My soul has peace; and by the help of God I must hasten eastward and heavenward.

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We came to Lindsey’s;fb6 and after preaching to about sixty people, had to ride twelve miles to Cattle Creek after four o’clock. Nor was that the worst. A storm of thunder and rain came on, and had we not stopped, we should have been steeped from head to foot.

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We had about four hundred people at the church, among whom were a few that loved and feared God; and many that are stupid, and have become hardened under the preaching of the gospel. I spent Monday, 9, at brother Moss’s,fb7 and felt the society in the city near my heart.

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We rode to Stroman’s,fb8 where I gave them a long talk on, “The grace of God that bringeth salvation,” &c. I thought the weather was too fine to continue so long; so we made a push and rode eighteen miles to P.’s at the Pondsfb9; where we supped and breakfasted at our own expense, and bought provision for our horses. About midnight the rain began to patter on the long shingles. What could we do? If we stayed, our provision would be where we stopped to eat and feed; and then rode eighteen miles more to the widow Pope’s,fb10 on Little Saluda.

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I came to A.’s chapel; but the weather was so exceedingly cold, and the house so open, that we went to the dwelling house, where I preached and prayed, and (the people said) stormed and scolded. When meeting was over, I saw the new still house, which, as George Fox said, “struck at my life”; and we found it necessary to deal plainly with brother —— about his distillery, and to tell him what we apprehended would be the consequence if persisted in. Its natural tendency would be to corrupt his family, and the neighbourhood; and to destroy the society. O, that the snare of Satan may be forever broken! We came to G.’s meeting house, where we had as wild and disorderly a congregation as could well be without words and blows. I preached a little, and stormed a great deal; but all would not do. It was an awful day to me; but I hope my labour was not wholly in vain. I lodged at D. Earpes’s,fb11 who came from Berkley to Seleuda, and has been a preacher twenty years. I ordained him deacon, and joined his daughter to a husband. Thence I came to Johnston’s, where was another wedding. I had work enough—the bishop—the wedding. I could hardly keep them serious. I preached on Isaiah 35:3-7, and had an open time.

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I rode to Ruff’s, and preached.

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and the two following days, we had work enough to write

subscription papers, to be sent abroad for the purpose of collecting one hundred pounds to finish Bethel school,fb12 and secure the land: but my expectations are small; the people have so little sense of God and religion. Saturday, I opened the new house on 1 Thessalonians 5:14; and on Sunday we had a sermon and love feast.

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Crossed Enoree, at Anderson’s Ford, in a canoe; and Tyger at Crenshaw’s Ford, and came to brother Gregory’s,fb13 near the Fish Dam ford, on Broad River. What a confluence of waters flows into the Santee in about two hundred miles, on a straight line, from the mouth; and in its meanders, three hundred or more!

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I preached and administered the sacrament at a store near the Fish Dam ford. This part of the country hath been settled about forty years.

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I found some assistance on Jeremiah 31:34, 35, at Gregory’s meeting house, in the woods; and I hope it was not altogether in vain. Last night I spent an hour with the blacks in their quarters, and it was well received by them. It will never do to meet them with the whites. By this means our preachers lose all their fruit. Many reasons might be assigned for this. O, my soul, rest in the Lord from moment to moment! All the places I have visited this week are new, and I hope the Lord will work at some, or all of them. I exhorted our people to teach their slaves to read; (this is greatly wanting); they would then understand preaching much better. We crossed Pacolet, and came to P——’s.fb14 My mind was under deep exercises on account of the state of religion in this neighbourhood.

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Was an awful day—perhaps the most awful I shall ever spend in this place. My comfort was in the woods with the Lord. NORTH CAROLINA

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I rode forty miles to Moore’s. My body is weak, and so is my faith for this part of the vineyard. God is my portion, saith my soul. This country improves in cultivation, wickedness, mills, and stills; a prophet of strong drink would be acceptable to many of these people. I believe that the Methodist preachers keep clear, both by precept and example; would to God the members did so too! Lord, have pity on weeping, bleeding Zion!

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We rode thirty miles through a barren country, and came, weak and hungry to brother B——’s clean, comfortable house; and had all things agreeable. I find it hard to ride eight or nine hours without any other nourishment but a little bread and tea.

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Was a rainy day. I had some talk with a few blacks, and was comfortable and happy. We lose much by not meeting these people alone. I find, generally, that those who are held by professors of religion are hard to move.

Saturday and Sunday, 4, 5. Quarterly meeting at Daniel Asbury’s meeting house. I notice many attend preaching at such times as these, who appear wild, and do not know how to behave themselves. In the afternoon I met the poor blacks by themselves, and was greatly blessed.

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We crossed Catawba, rode thirty-five miles, and came to brother Fitzhugh’s, where we met with kind treatment to sweeten the bitter cup of a hard and hungry day’s ride.

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Crossed Hunting Creek, and came to Arnette’s meeting house in Surry county. Here I had near three hundred hearers, to whom I preached on Hebrews 5:12-14, and had more enlarged views of this subject than I ever had before. We have had a good work here; fifty souls are lately brought in; appearances are greatly changed for the better since I was here eleven months ago.

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We came to Gordon’s, in Wilkes county. I feel awful; I fear lest darkness should be felt here. Ah, Lord, help me to go through good and evil report; prosperity and adversity; storms and calms; kindness and unkindness; friends and enemies; life and death, in the spirit and practice of the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

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I preached the funeral of grandmother Gordon, aged eighty- seven or eighty-eight years.

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We took our acceptable departure; I cannot live where God is not acknowledged. I passed through the heart of Wilkes county. Here is a poor prospect of religion among all sects. We came in the evening to the house of a poor, honest man. Bless God! we can embrace the poor cabins, and find shelter. The people are kind and free with what they have.

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I preached on Hebrews 4:1, to many people, collected from various parts, at brother White’s, on John’s River, and was greatly assisted.

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We had preaching, and were engaged in writing letters and copying the minutes. My soul enjoys sweet peace; but I see an awful danger of losing that simple walking and living in the enjoyment of God.

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I observed as a day of rigid fasting; this I cannot do more than once a month. I am frequently obliged to go on three cups of tea, with a little bread, for eight or nine hours, and to ride many miles, and preach, and perform my other ministerial labours.

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We had a crowded congregation, and a moving season at the sacrament. Monday and Tuesday we directed our course up John’s River.

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Crossed the Ridge, and kept on to the westward. We went

Major J. White’s path, and found it abundantly better than the old one. We reached the top of the Ridge in about six miles—here we found ourselves among fruitful hills; then we had a good path for six miles more, except where there were some laurel branches and roots. We stopped at S——’s; and it was well we did, or we should have been well-nigh starved, both man and horse.

TENNESSEE

I went on to Julius Dugger’s, and thence to William Nelson’s,fb15 where I met with brothers Stephen Brooks, Acuff, and Wilkerson,fb16 ancient men among us. I stood the fatigue, and sleeping three in a bed, better than I expected. From White’s to Nelson’s is eighty miles. We crossed the Watauga about twenty times. At supper we ate of the perch that are taken in great plenty from Smith’s fish spring.fb17 I judge there must be a subterraneous communication from that to the river. I felt uncomfortable in my mind, as I feared the Lord had left this place. I was led to speak with life and power on, “Will ye also go away?” I spent a night with brother Whitaker,fb18 I wish his wife may not love him to death.

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We hasted to Felix Earnest’s,fb19 on Nolachucky River; where we hold our western conference. Here six brethren from Kentucky met us, and we opened our conference with twenty-three preachers, fifteen of whom were members. We received every man’s account of himself and his late labours; and inquired of each man’s character among his brethren. Our business was conducted with great love and harmony. Our brethren have built a meeting house,fb20 and I must needs preach the first sermon; which I did on Exodus 20:24. Notwithstanding it was a time of great scarcity, we were well and most kindly entertained.

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We rode thirty miles to Holston without food for man or horse: but when we came to brother Charles Baker’s we had food and friendship. My feelings were disagreeable. In addition to the heat of the weather and the fatigue I have gone through, I have not slept five hours a night, one night with another, for five nights past. VIRGINIA

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On our way we called to see father Acuff,fb21 where we fed and prayed; and in the evening reached Abingdon, being the time and place of the sitting of the district court.

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I gave them a sermon, and although it was so public a time, we had great decency in the congregation. Rode thirteen miles in the evening.

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We rode thirty-five miles to the head branches of the main Holston, and the next day reached Alfred’s, on New River.fb22

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We rode to Pepper’s ferry, and made it thirty-five miles to M’Daniel’s. Thursday, we rode to brother W.’s, near Fincastle, thirty-eight miles: the toils of this journey have been great, the weather sultry, the rides long, and roads rough. We suffered from irregularity in food and lodging; although the people are very kind, and give us the best they have, and that without fee or reward, so that I have only spent about two shillings in riding about two hundred miles. I hope prosperity will be bettered by my feeble efforts. I have ridden two hundred and twenty miles in seven days and a half, and am so exceedingly outdone and oppressed with pain, weariness, and want of sleep, that I have hardly courage to do anything. Hail, happy day of rest! It draws nigh, and this labour and toil will soon be at an end!

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I conferred with the travelling and local preachers at E. Mitchell’s.

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the preachers and people were solemn whilst I enforced “Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God.”

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I rode forty miles to Mr. Baker’s at the Calf Pasture, and the next day thirty-five to Moore’s.

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rode twenty-four miles to Rocktown,fb23 and preached at three o’clock; and again the next day. Here I met the trustees of our school,fb24 to whom I read my Thoughts on Education. In the evening I left the town; and on Friday, 15, rode forty miles.

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I had a hard push to Newtownfb25 quarterly meeting, where, after delivering a short discourse, I held a conference with the local preachers and leaders. I enjoyed myself among these people; they are not quite as lively as heretofore, but God is still with them. Sabbath day, after sacrament, love feast, and ordination, I preached with some freedom on 2 Peter 3:17, 18. Upon the whole, my soul is refreshed; although I have been on the run, and have written none in my Journal for more than a week.

WEST VIRGINIA

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We rode to Charlestown, Jefferson county, and lodged with a pious physician.fb26 Next morning breakfasted with John Hite,fb27 and then came to Harper’s Ferry, where the impending rocks impress the mind of the traveller with terror; and should they fall would crush him to pieces: this scene is truly awful and romantic.

MARYLAND

We came to Samuel Phillip’s, but were not expected until next week: so I directed my course to Baltimore.

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I passed Frederick; thence to Liberty, where I stopped, conversed, and prayed, and then came on to brother Alexander Warfield’s, thirty miles.

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We set out for Baltimore; the rain came on very heavily; I have not felt, nor seen such, since the sixth of March, since which time I have ridden about one thousand two hundred miles. This day I heard of the death of one, among my best friends in America—Judge Thomas White, of Kent county, in the state of Delaware. This news was attended with an awful shock to me. I have met with nothing like it in the death of any friend on the continent. Lord, help us all to live out our short day to thy glory! I have lived days, weeks, and months in his house. O that his removal may be sanctified to my good and the good of the family! He was about sixty- five years of age. He was a friend to the poor and oppressed; he had been a professed Churchman, and was united to the Methodist connexion about seventeen or eighteen years. His house and heart were always open; and he was a faithful friend to liberty in spirit and practice; he was a most indulgent husband, a tender father, and an affectionate friend. He professed perfect love, and great peace, living and dying.

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I preached twice in town (Baltimore) and was delivered from my gloomy state of mind. I spent part of the week in visiting from house to house. I feel happy in speaking to all I find, whether parents, children, or servants; I see no other way; the common means will not do; Baxter, Wesley, and our Form of Discipline, say, “Go into every house”: I would go farther, and say, go into every kitchen and shop; address all, aged and young, on the salvation of their souls.

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I read “The Dawn of Universal Peace”; and the second and third volumes of Walker’s Sermons. Thursday, my mind was under deep exercises, unknown to all but God alone.

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I met the Africans, to consult about building a house, and forming a distinct African, yet Methodist Church.

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I came in peace to Cokesbury. Stayed on Saturday; and gave them a sermon on the shortness of time:—thence came through dust and heat to North East. Sunday. I preached within the frame of a house that is begun,fb28 to a number of sinners.

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I preached twice; and came in the evening to Mr. Richard Bassett’s, on the Manor, I have great inward distress in my soul. I felt when in prayer, as if the Lord would restore sister Moorefb29 to health; time will determine whether the impression is of the Lord.

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We hasted on to Georgetown. Some are of opinion that ——

fb30 will receive £200 per annum or more, glebe subscriptions, &c.: this is more than sixty-four dollars; and even that he seldom received among us. He was always very generous, and did not serve us for money. He did certainly run well. I was low in body and mind; and very flat in preaching. Dear brother Bowie, who attended me with his carriage to North East the last time I was here, is now gone to rest. O! how short is the life of man! We must needs come on to Chestertown; still languid in body, and my spirits under an awful fit of dejection at reviewing the state of persons and things. I was quite unwell, and crowded with company: my subject in town was Psalms 51:9Psalm 51:9-13. We then rode fifteen miles home with brother Causey;fb31 my body and spirit still very low. O! my Lord, help me through all my afflictions. Ah! what a comfortable thing it is to be among the ancient Methodists! But this is not always my place; indeed, it cannot be.

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Still under awful depression. I am not conscious of any sin, even in thought; but the imprudence and unfaithfulness of others bear heavily on my heart; I feel a degree of willingness to decline, die, and enter into rest. For the first time, I visited Centreville,fb32 and preached in the new house: some of the people felt awful. I saw Doctor Benjamin Hall, who is greatly changed since 1792, and under deep exercise about preaching; so that he cannot attend to his practice, and appears to be lost in thought. I wrote to him to try Baltimore: it is a pity such a man of sentiment, learning, and fine feeling, should be lost. I rode home with Robert Wrightfb33: he is rich in the world, but wants more of the life of religion; he appears still to love the preachers, and the cause of God. I received information that Doctor M——’s wife, before she died, manumitted her favourite servant- maid: not long after, the Doctor himself was called away; but before his removal he manumitted all his slaves. This man claimed no high Gospel light, and professed no more religion than the generality of the world among us do. I have a hope that God is preparing me for greater usefulness in my latter days. O how happy should I be, if after labouring thirty years, as I sometimes fear, to very little profit, it should hereafter appear that hundreds have been converted by my ministry! Of late I have had but little to do, but pray, preach, ride, converse, and take my necessary refreshment.

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We crossed Choptank River at Ennall’s Ferry: we had nine

men, three horses, and a carriage on board, and a very indifferent boat; but through a kind Providence we got safe over. When I first landed I felt a damp on my spirits, which I feared was ominous of persons and things. Our friends were loving at the Dorchester quarterly meeting, but not very lively; however, there was some stir in the love feast. At eleven o’clock we had nearly a thousand people collected, but they are awfully hardened. We had a heavy time: I felt much like what I suppose Jonah felt. We were furnished richly with the comforts of life.

DELAWARE

I came to the dwelling house of my dear friend Judge White (whose death I have already mentioned)—it was like his funeral to me. I learned since I came here, and I think it worthy of observation, that just before he died, unknown to his wife he had showed Samuel, his son,fb34 his books, and given directions concerning his house, &c. He then came to his wife, and said, “I feel as I never felt before,” and gave certain directions concerning his burial.

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I had a solemn season at Dover. I spent the evening with Doctor Abraham Ridgely, in the late dwelling house of his father. In some houses we serve the fathers, not the children; in some the children, not the fathers; and in some we serve both parents and children.

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I preached at Duck Creek Cross Roads, where there has been a great revival of religion.

PENNSYLVANIA

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I set out for Philadelphia, and came to Whiteclay and Redclay Creeks.fb35 I saw my old friend Samuel Hooper once more. I must needs preach, although I had ridden thirty-five or forty miles. Next day I called at Chester, and found my dear sister Withy unwell and in trouble. O may I meet her in heaven at last!

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I preached in the city of Philadelphia three times, not with the success I would wish. I was exceedingly assisted in meeting the classes, in which I spent three days, and am now of opinion that there is more religion among the society than I expected. I trust both they and myself will remember this visit for days to come. I was also much quickened in meeting the local preachers and leaders, who spoke feelingly of the state of their souls and the work of God. I now go hence to meet new troubles, and to labour while feeble life shall last.

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I rode to Crosswicks.

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Although very poorly I reached brother Brown’s.fb36 I was happy in this family, and addressed most of them concerning their souls. NEW JERSEY

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I came to Elizabethtown, and found brother Morrell (who

had been bled and physiced almost to death) on the recovery. My troubles are greater than ever: my body is weak, and my spirits very low. At the request of my friends, I stayed in town until Sunday, and was assisted in a manner I least expected, in preaching to about eighty people, from 1 Corinthians 15:58: after sermon I called the society together, and had a melting time in speaking personally to each. I attended the Bowery church in the afternoon; and the minister spoke largely on, “That your faith might not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” NEW YORK

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I came to New York the new way by Newark bridges, which are well established over Second and Passaic rivers:fb37 it is the nearest way to New York, and preserves the traveller from heat in the summer, and cold in the winter; from mosquitoes, and delays by winds, and other incidents. I began meeting the women’s classes, and felt happy, and found the Lord was amongst the sisters.

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Being the anniversary of Independence, the bells ringing, drums beating, guns firing, and orations on liberty, and equality too, are not forgotten. I see the need of being more watchful among the best of men: a spirit of love exists among the preachers; but we are far from being as spiritual as we ought to be. The Rev. Mr. Ogden was kind enough to present me with his first volume, On Revealed Religion: it contains a soft, yet general answer to the deistical atheistical oracle of the day, Thomas Paine; it is a most excellent compilation, taken from a great number of ancient and modern writers on the side of truth; and will be new to common readers. So far as I have read, I can recommend it to those who wish for full information on the subject. I met the official members of the society and had some close talk on the doctrine and discipline of the Church: I asked if they wished to be Methodists? But how could I suppose anything else, when they had been a society of nearly thirty years’ standing?fb38

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I preached in Brooklyn in the morning, and returned to assist in the sacrament in the afternoon at the new church; I then met the black classes;fb39 and preached at half-past six; I closed my day’s work by meeting two men’s classes.

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I met nine classes; so that I have now spoken to most of the members here, one by one.fb40 I left the city in peace, and received of their bounty towards bearing my expenses.

CONNECTICUT

We came to Stamford; where I preached in a private house.

Rode thirty-three miles to Stratford; the prospects here are great as to the fruits of the earth. My body was weak, and my faith still more so; however, I gave them a sermon on John 3:19-21; and the house was crowded inside and out.

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We had a very warm ride, fourteen miles, to New Haven. I think it as sultry here as it was the tenth of June in Delaware. Nothing would do but I must preach in Doctor Edwards’s meeting house;fb41 which I did, on these words: “Yea, doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Jesus Christ my Lord.”

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I came to Middletown: we had a prayer meeting, and I spent some time in visiting from house to house.

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Brother Roberts being indisposed, I had to give them two sermons at the farms,fb42 and one at the court house.

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We had some life at Middle Haddam.

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preached at New Londonfb43 about six o’clock, where I found most of the preachers present.

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we opened our conference, which consisted of about

twenty members, and sat until noon on Saturday. We had great peace in our conference; but some exercises relative to the externals, arose from the ancient contest about baptism, these people being originally connected with those that are of that line. O! what wisdom, meekness, patience, and prudence are necessary! Our brethren were exceedingly kind; and I hope this conference will be for the good of the people in this place, and thousands besides.

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We took our leave of town, and set off for our respective appointments. Two of our British brethren from the West Indies, Harper and Kingston,fb44 who had fled here to save their lives (that is, if possible to recover their health), were with us: I was pleased to see our preachers ready to give their strange brethren a little of the little they had. I came to Norwich, fifteen miles, and preached at eight o’clock, A.M., in the academy (formerly the Separate meeting house). It was a most awful time of heat.

RHODE ISLAND

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We rode twelve miles to Plainfield; and after resting and feeding, we came to Coventry,fb45 in Providence. My fatigue and indisposition made me glad to get to bed. The people here have made some attempts to improve the state of the roads; and really they need it, for they are properly made up of rocks and stones.

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At brother Lippett’sfb46 I ordained Duncan McCallfb47 from Passamaquoddy; who is as one born out of due time. He has been labouring between the British and American boundaries. I consider it fifty hard miles from New London to General Lippett’s: we have been the best of three days riding it, through the intense heat; and last year I rode it in one day. I feel a moving towards these people, as though the Lord would get himself a name, and have a people to praise him in this place. I feel myself greatly humbled before the Lord, for the peace and union in our late conference; and the satisfaction expressed by the preachers on receiving their stations.

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We came in the evening to Providence: when we entered the town, some drunken fellows raised a cry and shout, and made a sacrifice of the Methodists to hell. Mr. ——fb48 is now pastor of, and the Tennant house is shut against us. I wished to ride on, and not to stop in town; but Mr. Robertson, an ancient Englishman, constrained us to turn in with him. MASSACHUSETTS

We dined at Milton; and made it thirty miles to Boston, where I preached twice on the Sabbath (though very unwell), in a room that will hold about two hundred and fifty people. It seemed as if we hardly had either cursing or blessing among the people here. I have no doubt but that if we had a house, we should command a large congregation; but we labour under great inconveniences where we preach at present. I feel myself feeble in body and faint in spirit; yet Christ is mine, and I hope to be his in time and forever. Amen.

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I rode through some rain to Lynn. I was much shut up and distressed in my public exercises. My congregations were large and lifeless. Since I have been in Lynn, I have visited Wood End and Gravesend,fb49 met five classes, visited about one dozen families, and talked to them personally about their souls, and prayed with them. I have filled up intervals in reading my Bible, and the second volume of Mr. Wesley’s Sermons. O, how I wish our preachers and people to read his Journal, Sermons, and Notes! My body is afflicted, but my soul is serene.

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I preached on Isaiah 55:10, 11. Friday was an

excessively rainy day. My spirits were sunk into dejection. I feel no passion, but grieve and sorrow: to move, move, seems to be my life. I now lament that I did not set off with the young men to the Province of Maine. There are some tender, gracious souls in this town, especially among the members of society.

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Was a very warm, sultry day. I rose in the morning very

feeble in spirit, and attended prayer meeting at six o’clock. I preached three times, administered the sacrament, and met two classes, and was not so fatigued as I expected I should have been. I have had some refreshing seasons; and now I bid farewell to Lynn for two years. I rode a solitary way through Malden, Mistick,fb50 and North Cambridge; and preached at Waltham, at five o’clock, to a few people: the great rain prevented many from attending. Brother Roberts took an intermittent fever when we were at New Haven, and hath laboured and suffered, sick or well, until he is almost dead. I received from the quarterly meeting held in Fairfield circuit,fb51 what I should be glad to receive once a year from every circuit in the Union. It was as follows:—”The preachers of the Methodist Episcopal order who have travelled on this circuit since the last conference, have so conducted themselves that their characters are unimpeachable.” Signed by the local preachers, exhorters, stewards, and leaders.

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Brother Leefb52 and myself came ten miles to Framingham,

where I preached to a simple-hearted people; and although weak in body, I felt enlargement of heart. Here the society appeared to be all tenderness, sweetness, and love. After riding thirty miles to Milford (being an excessive day of heat and hunger), I preached on Isaiah 35:3-6. To my great surprise, whilst I was preaching, brother Roberts, whom I had left sick at Waltham, came in. I was amazed that he should ride thirty miles through such heat, without eating or drinking. It was enough to make a well man sick.

CONNECTICUT

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We set out for Thompson in Connecticut, whence we came to

dear brother Nichols’s.fb53 If I had not eaten, I could not have stood the labour of thirty miles, and preaching. I found there was religion among this society. The ancient people are stirred up by the Baptists, and the young ones by the Methodists.

MASSACHUSETTS

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We rode twenty-six miles to Wilbraham. I was well-nigh

spent, and brother George Roberts was ready to drop on the roadside. I spoke late; the weather was warm; I took but little rest for my body, and my mind was powerfully tried various ways.

Sunday morning, 9. My first subject was the parable of the sower; afterward the sacrament was administered. I thought it a dull time; but others did not think so. I gave them another discourse in the afternoon on, “The promise is to you and to your children.” It was a running exhortation, chiefly application. In the evening brother Roberts, though weak in body, gave them a sermon on, “My little children, for whom I travail in birth again till Christ be formed in you.” I see but little prospect of good being done, whilst the people are so divided.

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I stopped, and gave an exhortation at Springfield. After a thunder gust, we came on to Agawam. If I accomplish the tour I have in contemplation, it will make about six or seven hundred miles to the city of New York. I was stopped by the rain; but when I cannot do one thing another offers. I could read, write, pray, and plan. I laid out a plan for my travels in 1797; through Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Province of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York: making a distance of twelve or fifteen hundred miles. I set out for Williamstown on the banks of Hoosack, on the west borders of Massachusetts. I lodged at sister H.’s. I was well steeped in water, although my cloak saved me, in a good degree, as is frequently the case. My rest was interrupted. To labour hard all the day, and have no sleep at night, ill suit the flesh. Well might St. Paul say, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.” To labour and to suffer by night and by day, meet reproach, give up father and mother, wife, children, country, liberty, ease, health, wealth, and, finally, sometimes life itself in martyrdom—all this may be required.

VERMONT

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We rode in the afternoon into the woods of Bennington,fb54 and preached at brother D.’s,fb55 and had a melting, comfortable season with about fifty souls. There are sinners, Deists, Universalists, &c., and they all have something to say about religion. I have felt awful for this place and people; but God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. I feel my soul stayed upon God, although I am in heaviness through manifold temptations.

NEW YORK

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Brother Robertsfb56 and myself parted. He went to Pownall and myself to Ashgrove, where we have a society of about sixty members. They originated with Philip Embury, who left the city of New York when the British preachers came here.fb57 He continued to pursue his purpose of forming societies in the country; but dying in a few years, the society was left, and were without preaching by the Methodists for fifteen years. We have now a neat little chapel here.fb58

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I had a free, open time, with a few feeling souls, on Luke 11:1. In the afternoon, I visited a neglected people among the hills, and had an attentive congregation. This day I enjoyed peace of soul, and was happy in Christ. After riding fifteen miles, I found myself at home at this place (Ashgrove). My soul has been much quickened this Sabbath, and I find a difference between being amongst saints and sinners.

We came through Cambridge county, now Washington; and passed Argyle,fb59 named after Argyle, in Scotland. We came to brother M——’s; we and our horses were quite weary; but it is enough, the Lord is with us. Let this suffice at all times, and in every place. We came through a mere wilderness of swamp: the roots of the white pine, beech, and hemlock were a good deal in our way. We reached Westfield, where is a considerable settlement, and a promising society.

We passed Skenesborough,fb60 and turned our course eastward through some rough ground, and came to Hampton township, where we held a quarterly meeting at brother M——’s,fb61 in a pleasant vale. We rode through considerable heat, nearly twenty miles, without obtaining any refreshment! I have reason to praise God that I have been able to travel from Lynn to this place; the distance, the way I have come, I compute to be four hundred miles. I am now within a mile of the line of Vermont. There is only one county, in the State of New York, between this and Lower Canada. There is a place called Plattsburg,fb62 where they have often solicited us to send preachers. I find some similarity between the northern and western frontiers.

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was a high day: we had sacrament and love feast, and many opened their mouths boldly to testify of the goodness and love of the Lord Jesus. The porch, entry, kitchen, and the lodging-rooms were filled. One soul professed conversion. I find that two hours’ close meeting flags the minds of God’s children. Many of the people of the world are filled with prejudice because they are shut out.

Sister ——, an ancient woman, and a professor among the Baptists, was sent for by her father to turn the head and heart of her son from the Methodists: but she had grace and sense to know that God had been at work upon his soul; and with tears and prayers wished him God speed. Mr. G——, who had heard great and bad things of the Methodists, was surprised to hear that a son of his died a Methodist, in New York; and still more so, when he was visited by another son, who had joined society in Waltham. When this son came home, the father and family were alarmed, finding that he had met with something that had greatly changed him. After this, the prejudices of the dear old man were dissipated and he came five miles to our quarterly meeting. I rode forty miles. I conclude, that for thirty-five miles of this road there are ten or twelve houses for every mile, including those which extend to the mountains on either side of the road. Notwithstanding the roads are somewhat hilly, they are good for travellers. I laboured under great exercise of mind from various quarters; and my own infirmities of body and mind are neither few nor small.

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We had a solemn meeting at Bethlehem, in

Ashgrove.

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we had a warm-hearted people at R——’s, and a better time than weakness of body or mind could promise. On Friday, we came to Lansingburgh,fb63 and thence to Troy; at last we got to Coeyman’s Patent, weary, sick, and faint, after riding thirty-six miles.

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We were crowded with people. I suppose we had, perhaps, a thousand at the stone church at Coeyman’s Patent; and I felt some life and warmth amongst them.

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In the morning we had baptism, ordination, sacrament, and love feast; some spoke with life of the goodness of God. I gave them a discourse at eleven o’clock, and then went to bed with a high fever. Brother Roberts pleased, and, I trust, profited the people with a discourse, after I had done.

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I rose very unwell, and had to ride thirty-five or forty miles through the rain: I came in much wearied, and found a comfortable lodging at Mr. I——’s.

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I am somewhat better in body, but clouds and darkness still rest upon my mind.

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We rode twenty miles to Marbletown (properly so called at present); I preached on Hebrews 12:28, 29. I felt awful; there appeared to be very little devotion among the people. Our southern friends are battered on the subject of slaves, and these are in peace: it will not do; we must be Methodists in one place as well as another.

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We reached brother Garrettson’s;fb64 and Sunday, 13, I

preached at Rowe’s chapel. Then returned to Rhinebeck chapel, and preached on Hebrews 13:5. God once put into brother Garrettson’s hands great riches of a spiritual nature, and he laboured much; if he now does equal good according to his temporal ability, he will be blessed by the Lord, and by men.

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We made it twenty miles to the wreck of an old Presbyterian meeting house, at Wapping Creek,fb65 called the hollow; where I gave them a discourse on “Judgment beginning first at the house of God”—and there was some little motion, but the Methodists were not on their own ground.

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Brother Roberts gave us a close, good sermon on, My

people have committed two evils,” &c. I then enlarged on, “My grace is sufficient for thee”; our meeting continued till three o’clock; we got no dinner, and had to ride twelve miles to get to our supper and lodgings. We stopped at Governor Van Courtlandt’s,fb66 who reminds me of General Russell; we had all we needed, and abundantly more than we desired. Rest, rest, how sweet! yet how often in labour I rest, and in rest, labour.

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I had a comfortable time at Croton chapel,fb67 on Romans 1:16. I returned to General Van Courtlandt’s,fb68 and dined with my dear aged friends. Shall we ever meet again? We came to Fisher’s, near the White Plains chapel, to hold conference.fb69 My soul is kept solemn; and I feel as if earth were nothing to me; I am happy in God, and not perplexed with the things of this world.

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A few of us met in conference; the main body of the

preachers not coming in until about twelve o’clock. We went through the business of the conference in three days, forty-three preachers being present. I was greatly disappointed in not hearing the preachers give a full and free account of themselves and circuits. Although we sat ten hours in each day we did not close our business until Thursday evening after sitting each night till twelve o’clock.

NEW JERSEY

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We crossed Hudson River twenty-six miles above the city of New York, and came on to the waters of Hackensack; a river that is only thirty miles long and navigable two-thirds of the way:fb70 we then came to Passaic River, crossed at Second River, and made out this day to ride forty miles, much fatigued.

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We rode about thirty-two miles with very little to eat; however, we had the pleasure of seeing the famous Brunswick bridge,fb71 which is now nearly finished. It is the grandest of the kind I have seen in America. I was properly wearied; and prepared to rest on Sunday. I was sorely tried yesterday; more so than I have been these six weeks past.

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We came to Monmouth; we would have gone to

Shrewsbury,fb72 but time and horses failed us. I learn that the ancient spirit of faith, prayer, and power is taking place in a few places below. I was shocked at the brutality of some men who were fighting, one gouged out the other’s eye; the father and son then beset him again, cut off his ears and nose, and beat him almost to death. The father and son were tried for a breach of the peace, and roundly fined; and now the man that hath lost his nose and ears is to come upon them for damage. I have often thought that there are some things practiced in the Jerseys which are more brutish and diabolical than in any of the other States:fb73 there is nothing of this kind in New England; they learn civility there at least. We rode twenty miles to Emley’s church,fb74 where the great revival of religion was some years ago. I felt a little of the old, good spirit there still. Thence we journeyed on to Penny Hill,fb75 fifteen miles, where I was enabled to speak strong words. Thence I came to New Mills,fb76 and gave them an alarming talk on, Judgment beginning at the house of God.

PENNSYLVANIA

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I came through the sand to Philadelphia, and on

Sunday evening I preached on “All seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.” In doing which—

I. I pointed out the things that are Jesus Christ’s.

II. How these are to be sought.

III. That men are not to seek themselves wholly, or partially, in the ministry of Christ, but that self must be altogether out of the question.

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We opened our conference, and went on with great peace,

love, and deliberation, but were rather irregular, owing to some preachers not coming in until the third or fourth day. We made better stations than could be expected, extending from Northampton, in Virginia, to the Seneca Lake.

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we observed as a day of fasting and prayer. I preached at eleven o’clock, on Joel 2:15-17.

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Our conference rose.

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I preached in the morning at the African church, in the

afternoon at Ebenezer, and in the evening at St. George’s, where, to my surprise, the galleries were filled. I applied, “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.” I had work enough, being often compelled to digress to call the attention of the wild people.

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After getting a copy of the minutes I came to Chester, and dined with Mary Withy, who hath lived a widow in this house thirty-one years, and hath kept one of the most complete houses of entertainment in America. She hath sold out for £3,000, and is to give place in three weeks. I came late to Wilmington, and preached on Colossians 1:10. The great hindrance to the work of God here is the loose walk of professors of religion.

MARYLAND

Thence, by Thomas Howard’s,fb77 I proceeded to North East Forge, and lodged with my dear son, D. Sheredine.

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We came to Cokesbury. Here we undertook to make an

inventory of all the property belonging to Cokesbury college, and found the sum total of the amount to be seven thousand one hundred and four pounds, twelve shillings and ninepence.

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I came to Baltimore to attend the quarterly meeting; brother Whatcoat and myself filled up Sunday, the 18th, and were crowded with people.

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Our conference began. We had preachers from the Northern

Neck, and what is called New Virginia (Pitt District), and the west of Marylandfb78; about fifty-five in number. On Friday night there was a public collection for the assistance of the preachers who were deficient in their quarterage.

Sunday evening, 25. I preached on, “Then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another.” As I wished not to be idle I concluded to spend a good part of this week in meeting classes. The Africans of this town desire a church, which, in temporals, shall be altogether under their own direction, and ask greater privileges than the white stewards and trustees ever had a right to claim.

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Was a very solemn day of thanksgiving: the subject I made choice of was <19E720>Psalm 147:20, “He hath not dealt so with any nation.” This I applied spiritually—

I. To ourselves as individuals.

II. As it applies to our families.

III. To the society and ministry.

IV. As it applies to the continent.

In the afternoon I preached at the Point, on “In everything give thanks.”

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I left town and came to Elk Ridge, where I found a little time for reflection and prayer.

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I preached and administered the sacrament on the

Ridge. After twenty-three years’ preaching here, we have a small society. I dined at the widow Howard’s,fb79 and had an interview with sister Pue, who appeared to be deeply oppressed with the loss of her valuable husband. It is now more than twenty years since the doctor attended my ministry; and I have to hope was deeply awakened. In the latter part of his life he was much afflicted; he called upon God, and I trust died in peace. I doubt if there hath been a man of his profession of equal skill, continuation, and attention, in the state of Maryland. Mr. John Fletcher, when near his end cried out, “My poor, what will become of my poor?” So the doctor, when on his death-bed, “What will become of my patients?”

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After riding forty miles, I came late in the evening to Georgetown, and found a congregation waiting at the new chapel,fb80 Although wearied and unwell, I felt some liberty in speaking; and I am persuaded that good might have been done here if professors had not traded away their characters. It is strange, that people professing no religion look for justice and perfection in all Christians, and forget themselves.

VIRGINIA

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I reached Faulks.

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preached at the widow Bombry’sfb81 to about sixty-six hearers, after tiding about sixty-six miles from Alexandria.

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I rode about forty-two miles, and found a quiet retreat at brother Ellis’s. Next day I had about four hundred hearers.

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I had about three hundred hearers at Lancaster meeting house. Came in the evening to the widow Diggs’s.

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after preaching to a few people at the widow Woolard’s,fb82 we set out at one o’clock for Bowles’s ferry, and crossed in forty minutes, although it was three miles over: we landed in Essex county, and rode eight miles to brother Mann’s, where I preached fifteen years ago.fb83

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I visited brother L.R. Cole, and spent the day with him and his agreeable wife. Brother Reuben Ellis is certainly married, for the first time; may it be for the glory of God, and the good of his Church, and comfort of the dear man and his wife.

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I preached to some souls within and round the house, with a mixture of rich and poor, tame and wild people, at mother Cowles’s! I am amazed at the dear aged woman—the additional labour to which she submits, although now between seventy and eighty years of age, and possessing such strong mental powers!—it is surprising.

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After a rainy morning I rode to Paup’s chapel, and had nearly a hundred people. I spent the evening with Mrs. J. Ellis, brother Paup, and brother Perry: I was not so spiritual as I might have been.

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Crossed Mattaponi at Frazier’s ferry, and Pamunkey at

Putney, and came to Colonel Clayton’s: the weather was cold, and the wind and hunger were both pinching. We were kindly entertained at P. Davies’s: Stephen, his brother, is dead, and hath left the chief of what he had to the Church. He hath appointed me his trustee to dispose of it, and J. Ellis his executor. I feel the burden of the connexion; my only hope is, that the Lord of the harvest will send labourers into his vineyard, not mine.

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I preached at Richmond; and the next day came, cold and hungry, to my affectionate, kind, adopted son, J. Harding’s, in Petersburg. Here several of the preachers met me, to accompany me to the quarterly meeting in Brunswick. I received an original letter from Mr. Lee,fb84 not like what I wrote; so I bid him farewell: I will not give him another opportunity to abuse me; neither shall I lay to heart what he saith to afflict me. I attended the quarterly meeting at Merritt’s chapel, and there was some move among the people. I rode to John Paup’s,fb85 and had some consultation about Ebenezer school.fb86

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I preached at White’s chapel, and in the evening came, cold and hungry, to L. Holmes’s, in Mecklenburg.

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Our conference began at Salem chapel; there were present about fifty members, and sixteen probationers—we had close work, and great harmony in sentiment.

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Brothers Ansley and Coxfb87 preached, and we had a warm, living season.

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was a great day. I preached on 1 Timothy 3:15, 16; and there were ten elders and nine deacons ordained. This part of the connexion has regained its proper tone, after being kept out of tune for five years by an unhappy division. We were kindly entertained by our friends and brethren; preachers and people were blest; and we parted in peace.

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I had a few people and several preachers at brother Seward’s. The next day at Woolsey’s barn (now Drumgoole’s chapel)fb88 I had a few people, they having had but short notice: here religion appears to be in a low state: I spent the evening with brother E. Drumgoole;fb89 his house is not with the Lord, as he prayeth and longeth; yet I trust God hath made an everlasting covenant with the father, well ordered and sure.

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I preached at my old friend W. Owen’s, whom I

first knew at Portsmouth; we had a small house, and a good meeting. In the evening I came to my aged friend Mathew Myrick’s; whom I have known these twenty years, although never at his house before. NORTH CAROLINA

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I preached at brother Clayton’s, near Halifax; and then hasted to brother Bradford’s, where we had a small congregation the next day. Yesterday evening William Glendenning stayed here: he talked very boldly to R. W——; alleging that he was free, &c. I expect he will go on without fear or wisdom, until many of the Methodists will not receive him into their houses and hear the abuse of their ministers, people, and discipline. We crossed Tar River and Town Creek, and came to T. Sheppard’s, where we had all things richly to enjoy. I had my trials, and my spirit was greatly afflicted and humbled: I was glad to get alone to pour out my soul unto God.

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This hath been to me a day of trial and consolation. It is wonderful to see how the people in this country are hid by swamps and creeks.

Sabbath day, 13. We set out in the midst of the rain to Spann’s meeting house;fb90 I had ten hearers, to whom I preached on Luke 12:32. We came to brother Spann’s, who has sold off his property, and is about to move to the high lands of South Carolina: the reason he assigns is laudable; and I think God will be with him. It rained powerfully in the night, which brought me under great exercise about getting along, having been so often stopped by, and dipped in, the rivers and swamps.

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We crossed Neuse River at Whitefield’s ferry, the river rising very fast. We passed North East and Goshen bridges, and Bear Swamp; all of which we crossed in safety, though not without fear: my feet were wet, my body cold, and my stomach empty, having had no dinner. I found a good fire, a warm bed, and a little medicine, each necessary in its place. No people make you more welcome to their houses than these: but is Christ welcome to their hearts? I am sensible of the want of more religion among them.

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After riding about twenty miles, I preached at Father V—’s;fb91 I felt strangely set at liberty, and was uncommonly happy. Here we left Goshen circuit, and Sampson county.

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We crossed the south branch of Black River, and came to

Elizabethton, about fifty miles above Wilmington: we had a very cold day, and nothing to eat for thirty miles. Brother M’Rea met us near the town and took us to his house; and it was well he did, or we might have been lost in the woods. But the kindness of the people in supplying our wants made up for our toil—Lord, comfort them who comfort us! Here we had a quiet retreat, and spent the Sabbath in public and private exercises.

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We set out by sunrise, and had to work our way through the swamps, where I feared being plunged in headforemost. I have lately been much tried several ways; and much comforted. We came down Brunswick county, North Carolina, twenty miles to Norman’s, within the line of South Carolina. Cross where you will between the States, and it is a miserable pass for one hundred miles west. I was much led out on Revelation 21:6-8. This country abounds with bays, swamps, and drains; if there were here no sinners, I would not go along these roads. I am in want of rest, and should be glad of better fare. O, for patience, faith, courage, and every grace! Sometimes I feel as though I could rejoice to die and go home: but at other times the work of God is in my way, and sometimes my own unworthiness.

SOUTH CAROLINA

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We came to Kingston,fb92 where I preached in an old

Presbyterian meeting house, now repaired for the use of the Methodists. I spent the evening with W. Rogers, formerly of Bristol, where our wants were richly supplied: thus, sometimes we abound and at other times suffer want; and we may balance the one with the other.

Christmas day, 25. We set out at six o’clock for Georgetown, and came to Yuahannah ferry, which we crossed and came to Wacamaw River: we were detained at the two ferries about three hours, and rested one, and came to Georgetownfb93 about four o’clock in the evening; having ridden thirty-seven miles without eating or drinking, except a lowland hard apple, which I found in my pocket. The vanity of dancing in this place is in a good degree done away, and they have no play-house, and the people are very attentive: I trust that time and patience will bring all things about; that we shall not ride so many hundred miles in vain, and that so many prayers offered up, and tears shed for their welfare, will not be lost. After ten years’ labour we have done but little; but if we could station a preacher here, we might yet hope for success. I found brother Joshua Cannonfb94 had not laboured in vain; he hath established class meetings among white and black; and the good would have been still greater had prayer meetings been properly kept up. We try to do good, but who among us try to do all the good they can? For myself, I leave no company without fears of not having discharged my duty. Were it not for Jesus, who would be saved? When I have preached, I feel as though I had need to do it over again; and it is the same with all my performances. Brother Benjamin Blanton,fb95 my faithful friend, who freely offered himself to go to South Carolina, now my companion in travel, had not preached for a month, so I thought it time for him to begin again, which he did in the evening. I preached on Psalms 12:1Psalm 12:1, and on the Sabbath I preached on Deuteronomy 5:12-14. In the afternoon the people were attentive and somewhat moved. I find the scene is changed in Georgetown; we have a number of very modest, attentive hearers, and a good work among the blacks. The Methodists begin to stand on even ground with their antagonists.

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We directed our course towards Charleston, and crossed

Santee at Lenud’s ferry, which is the best I know on the river. In the evening we reached Mr. Compton’s: I felt for the man of the house, and was pleased in having the privilege of praying with them, and enjoyed great sweetness therein.

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We came to our dear brother Jackson’s on Cainhoy River:fb96 here we had the pleasure of hearing of some revival of religion among the children and domestics of the Methodists.

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We reached Charleston, having made it about seventy-four miles from Georgetown, along an excellent road. Here are the rich, the rice, and the slaves; the last is awful to me. Wealthy people settled on the rice lands of Cooper River hold from fifty to two hundred slaves on a plantation in chains and bondage: yet God is able of these stones, yea, of these slaveholders, to raise up children unto Abraham. My soul felt joyful and solemn at the thoughts of a revival of religion in Charleston. I find several young persons are brought into the fold of Christ.

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Several of the preachers came into the city to conference. We had a melting time at the love feast at brother Wells’s.

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