1801

We began our conference with the new year.

Sat from nine to twelve o’clock in the forenoon, and two hours in the afternoon; the band meeting was held between the hours of seven and eight. A clerk for the minutes was appointed, and another to keep the journal,fh1 We admitted four probationers; re-admitted two deacons to their standing in the travelling connexion, who had left it to locate; located three, to wit, Benjamin Blanton, Josiah Cole, and Llewellin Evans;fh2 and re-stationed, Robert Gains, Rufus Wiley, and William West, who had all located themselves in the course of the last year. We had great union: it is true, some talked loud; but I dare not say there was any improper heat. Our sitting continued five days, and we rested one Sabbath. We were richly accommodated at Smith’sfh3 and Carpenter’s, and two other houses. We only failed forty-eight dollars in paying all the preachers their demands.

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Yesterday and to-day I have been busy writing many long letters to my correspondents in the north.fh4

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We came on thirteen miles to Granney’s quarterly meeting, and lodged at Anthony Pressley’s.

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I gave a short discourse upon 2 Peter 4:3, and afterward rode up eight miles to the Hanging Rock.

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At Horton’s meeting house I spoke on Hebrews 8:10, 11.

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On this day we rested, and were busily employed in looking over our books and papers.

I felt deeply affected for the rising generation. Having resolved to catechise the children myself, I procured a Scripture catechism, and began with brother Horton’s; to this duty I purpose to attend in every house where leisure and opportunity may permit.

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We left Hanging Rock and came to Little Lynch and Flat

Creeks, crossing the great branch at McManus’s ford; this last is called a creek; but it rises near the Waxaws, and flows about one hundred and fifty miles, mingling its waters with the great Pee Dee below Port’s ferry. We had an excessively warm day for the season: the horses and their riders were both fatigued much in riding forty miles in ten hours. Seated upon the sandhills, we dined, at the root of a pine, upon a morsel of bread and bacon; and then remounted and pushed on to Anson in North Carolina. NORTH CAROLINA

We sheltered ourselves for the night at Thomas Shaw’s,fh5 upon Little Thompson’s creek.

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We are still at Thomas Shaw’s. What kind of folks am I among—unhappy people! One aged man had shot the constable when about to serve a warrant on him; a second had stabbed another dangerously—their names may go into shades. O sin! O intoxication! when—when will these people be civilized—and all be truly spiritualized. On Friday we attended at Jackson’s meeting house; it was a gracious season. Bishop Whatcoat spoke on Isaiah 12:2. We lodged at Stephen Pace’s, upon Brown’s Creek.

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We had a meeting at John Mills’s; his wife came from

Maryland, he from Virginia; the children are coming to Christ. This neighbourhood is visited with a revival of religion.

Sabbath day, 18. We came to Wadesboro after a court week. We held our meeting underneath the court house, within the arches: we had a most delightful day. Bishop Whatcoat spoke with great ingenuity and authority upon “The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life.” My subject was Luke 18:27. We lodged at I. Cash’s.

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We came to Webb’s ferry: the rain drove us under the roof of the widow Williams, where we remained until the storm was over, and then pushed on to James Pickett’s, in Richmond county.

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I gave a discourse on Amos 6:1: “Woe to them that are at ease in Zion!” I felt some openings.

I have had many and great exercises of mind respecting men and things, but my soul enjoys great resignation: I take the bitters of life as things which medicine my soul, producing caution, humiliation, and sanctification.

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We rode ten miles to the Presbyterian meeting house:

many attended at a short warning. My subject was Hebrews 7:25. We had a quickening season. After meeting we rode three miles to Rockingham,fh6 the seat of justice for the county of the same name. We had been expected at twelve o’clock, hence with this circumstance, and that of court time to boot, we had but few hearers. Meeting was held in the academy, a very commodious house for Divine service. Rockingham stands upon a beautiful eminence, and hath some valuable houses; about twenty families make the inhabitants. We were kindly and elegantly entertained at the house of one who had been one of us, but now is of and in the world.

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We came to Mark’s Creek. I spoke on Hebrews 3:13-15. We had a good season. We lodged with Solomon Rye.

SOUTH CAROLINA

We now descended into South Carolina. Marlborough county presents many interesting views—the saw-mills; the solitary, lofty, long-leaved pines; and the land, though a barren, is of the most beautiful kind, and for range for cattle and for timber is very valuable. It was my lot to be speaker, brother Whatcoat had taken so deep a cold he could do nothing. I preached from the parable of the sower.

We continued our journey down Naked Creek, by Robinson’s house, mills, and stills, and brought up at Turbot Cottingham’s, at the Beauty Spot.fh7 Notwithstanding all that Methodists, Baptists, and three meeting houses have done, the people are still far from beautiful in a spiritual sense. We had no opportunity to send harbingers, we had therefore no appointment.

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We hasted to James Speers’s, at the Three Creeks,fh8 where we dined, talked, and commended ourselves to God. That we might make our own appointments at Harris’s meeting housefh9 we came on to James Harris’s upon Muddy Creek. Brother Speers spread the tidings for us far and wide.

This is an unhappy country: it is thinly settled, and many are moving away to Georgia and the Natchez; our societies are small, and the prospect low. Too often, when any rise in their circumstances, they seek for offices, or become slave traders, and much too great to be Methodists. We have ridden since the commencement of the year one hundred and eighty miles in the Carolinas.

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We rode twenty miles to Bennet Flowers’;fh10 the men were from home, but the women gave notice of a meeting for the morrow at the old meeting house. After our meeting, about one o’clock, we came off and travelled down to Gaspero Sweet’s, Bull Swamp, Liberty county: we sent our host to call a congregation for Thursday. We now had time to read and write.

I find reasons enough in my own mind to justify myself against the low murmurs of partiality in which some have indulged. We are impartial. We spend as much time in the extremities. We know not Maryland or Delaware, after the flesh, more than Kentucky, Cumberland, Georgia, or the Carolinas: it is our duty to save the health of preachers where we can; to make particular appointments for some important charges; and it is our duty to embrace all parts of the continent and union, after the example of primitive times and the first faithful preachers in America.

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At Sweet’s chapel I preached on Revelation 22:14, 15. The order, 1. The city. 2. The citizens. 3. Their admission. 4. The characters shut out from the city. I felt light and liberty.

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We came to the Bear Pond’s school house,fh11 where we had a decent, attentive congregation. I preached on John 7:16, 17. Introduction.—It was observed that the dispute of the Jews with our Lord about the Messiah, was not if he should be the eternal Son of God, and the adopted son of man, but whether Jesus was that person whom Moses foretold that Church and nation should come, and what manner of person he should be, fifteen hundred years before. The Jews knew where Christ was to be born from Micah 5:2. See also Matthew 2. Mr. Shacklesford gave us a pressing invitation to dine with him, and treated us with friendship and hospitality. We rode in the evening to Port’s ferry.

Thomas Humphriesfh12 had been very sick, but was recovering from a perpneumony: it was reported he would die; but I did not feel as if he would die at this time.

Sure nothing could so effectually alarm and arm the citizens of South Carolina against the Methodists as the Address of the General Conference. The rich among the people never thought us worthy to preach to them: they did indeed give their slaves liberty to hear and join our Church; but now it appears the poor Africans will no longer have this indulgence. Perhaps we shall soon be thought unfit for the company of their dogs. But who will mourn the loss of the friendship of the world that hath so hated our Lord and Master Jesus Christ?

We have loitered away this month, and have ridden but about two hundred miles.

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We rested: wrote,fh13 and read, upon the solitary unhealthy banks of Pee Dee, in sight of the lofty moss-grown cypress trees and swamps. My soul is in peace; Jesus, Jesus is my all: my soul is love to God, to Christ, his Church, and all souls.

Sabbath day, February 1. We rode six miles to Brittons Neck meeting house,fh14 where I preached on Luke 19:10: “The Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” What characters were lost—not in a state of salvation: open, profane sinners; those who had sinned away conviction; backsliders; such as were seeking salvation by works; avowed infidels. It was observed that many were lost to men and means; occasioned hindrances themselves, and were prevented by others. We came to William Williams’s, near Little Pee Dee. On Monday we were housed by the rain in the forepart of the day: in the afternoon we visited Richard Woodbury, a great man, weighing upwards of three hundred pounds, and as kind as weighty.

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We had preaching at William Williams’s: there were few people.

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We crossed Little Pee Dee at the Potato Bed ferry.

Beautiful deep sands, live oaks, lofty pines, palmetto swamps, with intermingled gums and cypresses, variegated by evergreens of bay and laurel, and twining jessamine flinging its odours far and wide around; lawns and savannahs: such is the country, and such the charming scenes through which we have frequently passed in our late rides. We brought up at Richard Green’s, near Kingston.fh15

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Counsel and conversation with the presiding elders, several long letters to the north and south, and reading, furnished occupation for the day. I received the compilation of Nicholas Snethen, intended as an answer to James O’Kelly: it is well done, and very correctly done, except in a few cases. There was no sharpness at all upon my side with Doctor Coke at Charleston respecting the proposed general conference, which was afterward held (in 1792):fh16 I was fully convinced that nothing else would finish the unhappy business with O’Kelly; and that did finish it.

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Occupied in reading and writing.fh17 The preachers had not yet made out our plan for a forward move. One Sabbath day yet at Kingston, and then we keep along towards the lovely north,

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I rode to Robert Anderson’s,fh18 in the Swamps, and met about thirty souls, to whom I spoke on Ephesians 2:8-10. Returned to Richard Green’s.

Sabbath day, 8. At Kingston. A lovely day; but few people—perhaps not more than one hundred, including the coloured folks. My subject was Luke 9:24. Brother Whatcoat spoke on John 3:16. It is now sixteen years since I rode, anxious and solitary, through this part of the land; there was scarcely a house to receive me, and no Methodist to bid me welcome; but God hath given us many friends, of some of those whose houses I lodged in; witness the children of Mr. Clark, and of Durant—and their widows also.

We have been obliged to rest on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sabbath day, and Monday, 9th, with Richard Green. Mr. Rogers will not give us an invitation: his kindness towards the Methodists is at an end.fh19

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We rode sixteen miles to Kullum’s meeting house:fh20 it was a cold day, and coming after such warm weather, its severity was the more sensibly felt; about midday it rained powerfully. My subject was Hebrews 2:1. After meeting we rode to father Kullum’s, an old Maryland man, from Dorset county. Here I met Benjamin Sellers, a local preacher, and a faithful servant of God.

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We went forward to William Norton’s,fh21 at the Iron Run; a distance of twelve miles, through swampy ground. Brother Whatcoat preached, and ordained brother Sellers a deacon. I spoke from Galatians 4:19. It was a disagreeable time, the people were trembling with cold.

NORTH CAROLINA

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We rode twenty miles to Frinke’s.fh22

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At Ebenezer:—the house was unfinished and the day windy

and uncomfortable. Brother Whatcoat and myself held the people nearly three hours. My text was Galatians 6:14-16.

A Solomon Reeves let me know that he had seen the Address, signed by me; and was quite confident there were no arguments to prove that slavery was repugnant to the spirit of the Gospel: what absurdities will not men defend! If the Gospel will tolerate slavery, what will it not authorize? I am strangely mistaken if this said Mr. Reeves has more grace than is necessary, or more of Solomon than the name. We lodged for the night at William Gore’s.

From this neighbourhood we came to Abraham Bepent’s, Brunswick county, North Carolina, fording the Seven-mile Creek, and crossing the Wacamaw River at Loftus’s Flat.

We have ridden at least five hundred and fifty, if not six hundred miles, over the hills, barrens, swamps, savannahs, rivers, and creeks of South Carolina.

At Gause’s Manor, or more properly town, we were pleasantly situated. I had a most solemn visit to the sea beach, which to me was a most instructive sight: the sea reminded me of its great Maker, “who stayeth the proud waves thereof”; its innumerable productions; the diversified features of its shores—the sandhills; the marsh; the palmetto, tall and slender; the sheep and goats frisking in the shade or browsing in the sun: or the eye, directed to the waters, beholds the rolling porpoise; the seagulls lifting and letting fall from high the clam, which, breaking, furnishes them with food; the eagles with hovering wings watching for their prey; the white sail of the solitary vessel tossed upon the distant wave—how interesting a picture do all these objects make!

We preached at William Gause’s, the patriarch of the place: his son stood for scribe, and assisted me in making extracts of letters to add to my manuscript.

We visited Charlotte meeting house, named after the river, vulgarly and improperly called Shalotte. On our return, I prepared a few long letters for the north.

My mind is in great peace. I lament that I have no access to the poor: our way is strangely closed up at present in consequence of the Address. I made my last visit to the sea. I thought upon my friends on the other side the great waters; my voyage to this country; the little probability there was of my ever again seeing my dear mother, or my native land. We have had preaching in three or four places: to wit, at Bepent’s, in Brunswick county, and at the Manor.

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We attended a meeting at Lockwood’s Folly. I gave a sermon upon 2 Corinthians 4:5. 1. What the apostles of our Lord did not preach. 2. What they did preach. 3. The relation of ministers to Christ and to souls. The principles of their service. They sought not their own honour, ease, or interest—they did not make disciples for themselves—they had not wisdom, righteousness, redemption, for souls; nor grace to convict, convert, or regenerate. They preached Christ in his prophetic, priestly, and kingly offices—in his Gospel; in the sacrifice, once offered, of himself—in his Divinity. “Ourselves your servants for Christ’s sake,”—his saved, his qualified, his commissioned servants (not slaves)—bound by his word, his grace, his love—not for any worldly consideration, but “for Christ’s sake”: warning sinners, hypocrites, Pharisees, and backsliders;—comforting mourners; strengthening believers, and urging and inciting to holiness of heart and life. I observed, “servants,” yet their rulers; according to Scripture testimony—see Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:2. We were kindly entertained at Mr. Bellon’s: the whole family came to the house of public entertainment, eight miles from their dwelling, to make us comfortable.

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Rode to Edward Sullivan’s, at Town Creek—eighteen miles.

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I preached: my subject was Luke 4:18. We had a full house. I baptized three adults, and as many children.

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We dined with General Smith—there was abundance of

hospitality. We came into town. Jeremiah Normanfh23 gave us a sermon. Our tabernacle is crowded again: the minds of the people are strangely changed; and the indignation excited against us is overpast: the people see and confess that the slaves are made better by religion; and wonder to hear the poor Africans pray and exhort.

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I preached, for the first time, in our house, and for the second in Wilmington: my text was found in Acts 26:17, 18. At eleven o’clock we were crowded; and I felt uncommon enlargement. One of the respectables came in the name of some of the reputables to request that I would preach in the ancient, venerable brick church: I was weak—had spoken long and loud, and was more than ordinarily unwell; but brother Whatcoat was unwell and not able to go out. At four o’clock we had a large and decent congregation—I lectured upon Romans 10:1-4. In the evening, numbers, both white and black, came again to the tabernacle. After Jeremiah Norman had preached, I read, and commented upon two letters respecting the work of God in Delaware, and Cumberland, in the West.

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We came off early and travelled on to Nixon’s, through dews, damps, and rain—a great part of the way weary, pained, and sleepy, for want of rest. I gave a discourse on Matthew 11:28-30.

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About sunrise we hasted away and came to Lot Ballard’s at the Rich Lands, New River, about forty miles: we stopped not on the way. I unfortunately left my famous spectacles behind: I had laid them by, overwhelmed with drowsiness, and failed to take them up to read a chapter, as is my custom, except upon such over-doing journeys. We walked our horses at the rate of four miles an hour: my poor nag limped. I thought it was owing to the bad state of his shoes, when, behold, an oyster shell had wedged itself in the hollow of his hoof, near the heel.

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At New River I preached on Luke 19:10. We had a very serious but unaffected congregation.

Joseph Ballard, and his wife Mary Ballard, are gone to rest, after a respectable profession of religion amongst the Methodists, for seventeen or eighteen years. John Perry, a pious soul, formerly of the Baptists, and an official character amongst them, is also gone to his reward. He had backslidden; but was restored among the Methodists, and became a preacher and deacon: he died upon the road, going to an appointment: neither he nor Ballard held slaves—hail, happy souls!

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We had to march down upon Trenton, sixteen miles. The

appointed meeting had been transferred to Frederick Argate’s, occasioned by the death of his venerable mother, the respectable wife of General Frederick Argate, who had been suddenly called away. This lady justly deserved the great and good character she had for forty years preserved, as a wife, a mother, a mistress, and a friend: to relieve the poor, and to solace the afflicted, gave her pleasure and occupation almost uninterrupted. Thursday week she was at meeting—the following, she was a corpse. My subject on this solemn funeral occasion, was 1 Corinthians 15:22: “As in Adam all die, so in Christ shall all be made alive.” First, Our union with Adam, and the unhappy consequences. Secondly, Our union with Christ, and the happy consequences. We have already ridden eighty miles from Wilmington.

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We came to Jones court house: we had many women, but few men: my text was 1 Corinthians 7:29-31. I suppose I shall not soon prophesy there again—for good reasons.

We went not to see our wealthy friends, but came down to Thomas Lee’s, where we held a meeting on Wednesday and Thursday. My text was Acts 20:32. Brother Whatcoat spoke from Isaiah 57:1, a portion of Scripture very seasonably chosen.

I began to review for this year the preachers and stations. We may perhaps find one preacher for a circuit in the Virginia Conference. I am shocked to see how lightly the preachers esteem, and how readily they leave, the travelling plan. O Lord, by whom shall Jacob arise?

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Rode to Newbern. Brother Whatcoat preached in the evening. Sabbath day, 8. We had a sacrament in the morning, and brother Whatcoat preached. In the afternoon I made an improvement upon Matthew 17:5. I have been rather clouded in mind, and have felt no pleasure in my administrations to-day.

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We rode thirty-seven miles to Washington. In our way we crossed Neuse, swiftly and safely, at West’s ferry. At twenty-one miles we stopped to feed—high price and poor fare. We have ridden six hundred and fifty miles towards the fourth thousand since the Carolina Conference. Here Ralph Potts, a Northumbrian (Old England), but American-made Methodist, received us as the angels of God.

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I gave a serious talk to more persons than I expected, on Romans 10:16—a subject well fitted to the state of the people of Washington.

Ralph Potts hath begun a handsome chapel, thirty feet square, and, by the blessing of God, he will finish it without any man’s help.

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We came twelve miles to Josiah Little’s. We called upon

brother Floyd by the way. He is sickly. I bless God that this family standeth by us yet. I also called at brother Norris’s. At Little’s we had many people. Two of our friend Little’s brothers are gone from our society. O! the slave trade!—when will it be no more?

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A dreary ride of thirty miles, without food for man or beast, brought us to Joseph Pippin’s.fh24 Here we were kindly entertained. Our friend Pippin hath been settled in the Connecta Swamps for twenty years. He hath six children, and about fifteen slaves, and never has had a death in his family. Mercy and miracle! May they praise the Lord!

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At Toole’s meeting house, near Tarboro, brother Whatcoat addressed the congregation, upon Zechariah 9:12. My choice was Isaiah 1:9. I spoke with great heat and rapidity about half an hour. My text was well chosen, if the comment was not well executed. We lodged at Mr. Toole’s.

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Fifteen miles to Prospect chapel—open to all societies.

Brother Whatcoat gave a short discourse upon justification by faith. My subject was: The love of God and the love of the world contrasted with, and subversive of, each other: according to the degrees, so the effects and fruits of these opposing systems.

Having fourteen miles to Henry Bradford’s,fh25 we had no time to dine. We took to horse, and came in with the shadows of evening. This morning we breakfasted at seven o’clock, and we now supped at seven—hard preaching and hard riding occupied the intermediate hours. We have passed rapidly through Edgecombe into Halifax county. O, the awful state of religion in this circuit!

Sabbath day, 15. At Bradford’s meeting house, near Fishing Creek, my portion of the word was from Psalms 1:2Psalm 1:2, 3. I discovered some solemnity and a few tears. Brother Whatcoat preached on John 3:17, We rested this Sabbath. We have ridden one hundred and twenty miles in a few days of the past week.

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We were under the necessity of moving to Northampton. It

was very warm: we started, and crossed Roanoke river at Pollock’s ferry, and arrived at Richard Whitaker’s—twenty miles. I was taken very ill with a bilious affection. I had a high fever, and my head and back furnished symptoms of a lowland intermittent. I could not eat, and thought of staying in the house. I changed my mind, and went to Rehoboth chapel. I read the letters giving the accounts of the work of God in the State of Delaware, and in Cumberland. At brother Grant’s I took a little water-gruel, and rode on eight miles farther, making twelve miles this day. We lodged at Joseph Pinner’s.fh26

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We had timely intimation of rain. We started nevertheless, and had the rain, more or less, to Winton, a distance of twenty-five miles. Here we were glad to stop to dry and dine; but no more—ride we must. Gates court house brought us up in the evening. Our ride to-day is little short of forty miles. I preached in the court house, on Titus 2:11, 12.

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We went forward to Isaac Hunter’s,fh27 twelve miles. Alas for this place! Five souls of the whites—some poor Africans are seeking the Lord.

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We came to Newland Creek, twenty-two miles, and lodged

at James Spence’s.fh28 This is a most awful place, and Satan triumphs. Sabbath day was cloudy and myself very unwell; but God enabled me to speak with uncommon unction, from John 3:19-21. “The darkness of the world”—in birth, education, dispensation, practice—the contrary light of Revelation; the inspiration of the Spirit; the experience and practice of God’s people and ministers:—they came to the light to try thereby their conviction, conversion, and sanctification; and as the touchstone of their justice, mercy, truth, and love. “Condemnation”—they are condemned by the word of God, their own consciences, by the people of God—they shall be found guilty in the day of judgment, and be condemned—according to the Gospel privileges and light they have lived under and rejected; and they shall condemn themselves forever in hell.

We came to M’Bride’s.fh29 I had a dumb chill, and a sick night.

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We made twenty-two miles to Samuel Simmons’s. Our flight has carried us through Pasquotank, Camden, and Currituck counties, in North Carolina, which we shall leave today. My horse enslaves his rider. I suffer under severe bodily affliction. I am sorrowful; yet without sinning.

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At Currituck, Williams’s meeting house, brother Whatcoat preached. I gave a short exhortation; after which we proceeded on to James Wilson’s. We have done with North Carolina for the present. VIRGINIA

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Cold and snow. I spoke on Isaiah 51:3. I. The cause of Zion’s mourning. “Waste places”—such as had been improved, but forsaken. “Wilderness”—never cultivated: the one representing the Jewish nation; the other, heathen lands. II. “Joy and gladness”—yea, the shouts of the millions of the redeemed of the earth.

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Brother Whatcoat preached at Cutherall’s, near the great bridge,fh30 We came through the rain to Hospital Point,fh31 and crossed over to Portsmouth. I answered several letters.fh32

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We had an open time at Portsmouth.

Sabbath, 29. Unwell: my horse also. Preached in Norfolk: my subject, Galatians 6:9. Returned in the horse-boat through the rain. At three o’clock, I spoke, on, “These shall go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into life eternal.” The gracious state of heart, and the gracious practice which was manifested by the righteous, in their doing all from a principle of love to Christ; and the blessed consequences—”eternal life.” Of the wicked—their opposite characters and practices, and the effects produced—”everlasting punishment.”

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We came to Jolliff’s: it was not my day to preach, nor indeed was I well able.

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We came in haste to Suffolk. It was my lot to preach in the court housefh33 at twelve o’clock. My foundation was 1 Timothy 4:9,

10. It was with great labour I came through: my cold, loss of voice, and a pain in my breast, were greatly afflictive. We have one good-hearted Methodist, and two very respectable friends here; and the inhabitants, generally, are very catholic—they desire to build a house for us. This town has one grand street, about one hundred houses, and is well situated for trade in lumber, turpentine, tar, and pork, collected from Carolina and parts of this State. We lodged at Richard Yerbury’s, an ancient friend of mine from Dinwiddie. He and his wife were the disciples of Mr. Devereux Jarratt. The old prophet, I hear, is dead. He was a man of genius, possessed a great deal of natural oratory, was an excellent reader, and a good writer. From 1763 to 1801 (I think), he was minister of the parish of Bath, in Dinwiddie county, in this State. I have reason to presume, that he was instrumentally successful in awakening hundreds of souls to some sense of religion, in that dark day and time. How he died, I shall probably hear and record hereafter.fh34

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We came to Jethro Hazlett’s, near Somerton.fh35 The

people were lively, and prayed, and praised, and exhorted. I felt the soreness in my breast, and was silent.

NORTH CAROLINA

After meeting, we came on to Knotty Pine—to the house of mourning for a favourite son. Marmaduke Baker was this day to have gone to Princeton College to finish his education. We hope he is gone to the college of saints and the society of heaven. We have ridden twenty-four miles—faint and feeble.

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I gave, perhaps, my last talk in Knotty Pine chapel, on 1 Peter 4:17. We hasted to Winton; benighted in the swamp, which for two miles was overflowed with water. We arrived late at Dr. Laroque’s, where we lodged. From Portsmouth hither, we make sixty-five miles. At eleven o’clock brother Whatcoat preached in the court house, from John 3:16. After preaching, we hasted to Murfreesboro, twelve miles. I preached at N. Vicks’s: my text was John 3:17. Where I laboured I lodged.

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We came to Edward Sorry’s, in Northampton county, dined, and hasted along towards Sterling Boykin’s, twenty-eight miles. Sabbath day, 5. I preached at Concord meeting house, and lodged with Thomas Dupree, a descendant of a Huguenot who fell a martyr to persecution. I felt dejection of spirits and awful feelings for the state of the people. I preached on Hebrews 2:3. I again preached on “Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world”: to these exercises were added a sacrament, and the baptism of children. We had a solemn season.

I recollect having read, some years since, Ostervald’s Christian Theology: having a wish to transcribe a few sentiments in the work, I met with it, and extracted from chap. 2, page 317, what follows. “Yet it cannot be denied that in the primitive Church there was always a president who presided over others, who were in a state of equality with himself: this is clearly proved from the catalogues of bishops to be found in Eusebius and others; in them we may see the names of the bishops belonging to the principal Churches, many of whom were ordained whilst the apostles (but especially John) were still living.” So far Mr. Ostervald, who, I presume, was a Presbyterian. In Cave’s Lives of the Fathers, and in the writings of the ancients, it will appear that the Churches of Alexandria, and elsewhere, had large congregations, many elders; that the apostles might appoint and ordain bishops. Mr. Ostervald, who, it appears, is a candid and well- informed man, has gone as far as might be expected for a Presbyterian. For myself, I see but a hair’s breadth difference between the sentiments of the respectable and learned author of Christian Theology, and the practice of the Methodist Episcopal Church. There is not—nor indeed, in my mind, can there be—a perfect equality between a constant president, and those over whom he always presides.

VIRGINIA

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At Malone’s chapel I preached on Luke 24:44-48. We lodged at brother Peeple’s.

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Leaving Jones’s, we proceeded on through heavy rain, to Dromgoole’s.

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Dromyrick chapelfh36 had been removed and enlarged for the conferences. Thursday, Friday, and Monday in conference. We had a press of business, but were peaceable and expeditious.fh37 Brother Lee preached on Saturday; I held forth on Sunday morning to an unwieldy congregation indoors, whilst William Ormond preached out of doors, and the poor blacks had their devotions behind the house. My subject was Romans 1:16: “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” The manifest excellence of the Gospel of Christ in three cases. 1. As a revelation from God, by ancient, and multiplied, and sure prophecy. 2. As it proclaimeth salvation to all the world who will give it that attention and that credence which is given to the reports and to the business of the world. The spiritual and glorious salvation of the Gospel. The power of God displayed upon the rich, the poor, the worldly minded, the worldly wise, and worldly ignorant, and sinners of the deepest dye. Modern ministers and the people of God of the present day should not be ashamed to believe and profess the experience and obey the precepts of the Gospel; not ashamed to suffer for it and support it; not ashamed to claim all its promises; contend for the truth of its doctrines, and the necessity and efficacy of its divinely appointed ordinances.

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We finished our conference, and next day I recommenced my northern march, preaching at Dromgoole’s (now Mason’s) chapel,fh38 whither we had returned. Doctor Smith, on whom I called, took a wart, cancerous in appearance, which had troubled me three months, from my foot.

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At Mabry’s chapel. I paid a visit to an old mother in Israel. I have fevers and feebleness, but a soul entirely swallowed up in God. I preached on Titus 1:16. The characters of those who profess to know God by his works of nature, his providences; yet there are of these who reject his word, who imitate him not in his attributes and perfections, forgetting that we might as well suppose a man without bodily powers and mental apprehensions, as a God without justice, mercy, love, and holiness. Some profess to know God by revelation, yet in works deny him; others profess to know God by revelation and inspiration, yet, like the others, neither fear God, trust in, nor love him, having deceived their own souls; others have fallen from the experimental and saving knowledge of God, yet profess to know God. Lastly, How excellent the character of those who know God, and prove it by their works, and uniformity of tempers and actions, living always in the fear of God, and in an unshaken confidence in his mercy and his truth.

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Ten miles brought us to Saponey Creek. We lodged at the house of Richard Graves’s widow. The husband is gone home, having departed in perfect love, after twenty years’ profession: he wrote and felt a blessed experience a short time before his death.

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For thirty years past I have occasionally preached at Stony Creek; I held forth at the chapel on Psalms 78:5Psalm 78:5-7. After preaching we hasted on to B. Malone’s to dine, and thence to Petersburg, thirty miles. Sabbath, 19. There had been put forth a printed appointment for me to preach the funeral sermon of the late Rev. Devereux Jarratt, who had lately returned to his rest.

My subject was Matthew 25:21: “His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” It was observed, I. That a good servant was only good in the relation which his practice and his experience bore to the example and the precepts of his divine Master; that his was Christian goodness—a goodness altogether founded in grace. II. “Faithful servant”—faithful to his ministerial character:—he hath a high and just sense of the authority of his Divine Master in the person of God the Father and God the Son; he hath a just respect for the people he is to serve of all characters: the service he is to perform—lst. The preaching of the word. 2d. The administration of the sacrament and ordinances. 3d. Ruling the Church of God. The “talents”— the gift of prayer, preaching, expounding of the Scriptures; and social advice. “Faithful in a few things”—”to be ruler over many things” in the glory of God. The “joy” of Jesus—the joy of his redemption and salvation of souls socially and personally, felt and experienced—and lastly, the hearty welcome into glory.

Mr. Devereux Jarratt was settled in Bath Parish, Dinwiddie county, Virginia, in the year 1763, and continued until February, 1801. He was a faithful and successful preacher. He had witnessed four or five periodical revivals of religion in his parish. When he began his labours, there was no other, that he knew of, evangelical minister in all the province! He travelled into several counties, and there were very few parish churches within fifty miles of his own in which he had not preached; to which labours of love and zeal were added, preaching the word of life on solitary plantations and in meeting houses. He was the first who received our despised preachers— when strangers and unfriended, he took them to his house, and had societies formed in his parish. Some of his people became travelling preachers amongst us. I have already observed that the ministry of Mr. Jarratt was successful—I verily believe that hundreds were awakened by his labours; they are dispersed—some are gone to the Carolinas, to Georgia, to the western country—some perhaps are in heaven; and some, it may be, in hell.

The day after, we rode through a cold day to Chesterfield court house, and the next day we came in, dripping, to Richmond: about four o’clock, lame as I was, I walked to the new house, where I spoke to a small congregation from Matthew 5:16.

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Although it was excessively cold, occasioned by a fall of snow on the mountains, we took the road, and came as far as Lyon’s, in Caroline, about thirty-five miles.

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By taking the road over Buck’s bridge, we crossed

Mattaponyfh39 without difficulty. On our route I saw that beautiful spot, the Bowling Green, improved into a neat village at Caroline court house. We dined at Todd’s, and came on to Fredericksburg: here I completely failed, and went to bed, after ordaining William Hughes a deacon. Brother Whatcoat spoke in the new house,fh40 which I could only behold with my eyes at a distance. Some years ago Doctor Coke and myself wished to preach, but there was no place; now, the people desired to hear me and could not.

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Was a day of rain. Onward we went—Potomac run was passable—Aquia, full enough to catch my dipping foot—hills, and clay, and another swelling stream still between us and Dumfries—arrived at last we borrowed a widow’s house and held a meeting; my subject was Luke 19:10. We were kindly entertained at Cook’s.

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We came on to Alexandria. O the clay! O the insolvent roads!

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I gave a discourse upon Zephaniah 1:12.

I received two letters sent after me, requesting the substance or heads of the sermon preached on the occasion of the late Rev. Devereux Jarratt: I sat down, and as well as I could collect and remember them, hastily arranged my thoughts upon paper, and left the manuscript with Nicholas Snethen to copy.

MARYLAND

We had some difficulty next day at the ferry, being obliged to wait an hour, which made us too late for meeting in Georgetown.

I visited Captain Lloyd Beal.fh41 I also visited Ezekiel King,fh42 son of my most dear friend, father King, in Stroud. Can a son of so many prayers be lost? heavy strokes of Providence have afflicted his mind: he hears—he weeps—O that I may yet see him converted!—he desired that I should pray in the family.

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We came to Montgomery court house, fifteen miles, where I found a decent, attentive congregation, in a house as well contrived and fitted for religious worship as any I have seen: my subject was Luke 24:45-48.

Jehovah is at work—We have new converts added. We dined at Enoch Busson’s,fh43 and came on to Joshua Pigman’s, twenty-five miles.

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We had a large assembly at Goshen meeting house: brother Whatcoat preached. We came on that evening to Levin Warfield’s.fh44

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We arrived to dine at Alexander Warfield’s, on Sam’s

Creek, and pushed on to Henry Willis’s, on Pipe Creek, where it had been our intention to open conference.fh45

We had about forty members present, and sat on Friday, Saturday, and Monday: on Tuesday morning we rose. We had great peace; and good news from several circuits—revivals of religion. I was greatly supported in mind and body. On Sabbath day I preached from Matthew 28:18-20. 1. The authority of Christ—his natural, and his Divine right as the co-eternal Son—his right by redemption—his right by family compact, and the delegation of the whole Trinity, to the work of redemption and salvation.

2. The branches of duty appointed to his ministers: to preach the Gospel in all its essential points; to administer the ordinances, and to rule the Church of Christ. 3. “I am with you”—at all times, and in all places, to support and to give you success as Christians and as ministers. We had six elders present; to wit, William Watters, John Phillips, Solomon Harris, Joseph Stone, John Cullison, and Alexander M’Caine.fh46 There was preaching every day and every night. Our own people, and our friends in the settlement were equally kind; and we had rich entertainment. This settlement of Pipe Creek is the richest in the state: here Mr. Strawbridge formed the first society in Maryland—and America.fh47

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The clouds are gone, and we must move. The weather

has lately been unpleasant. I changed my old horse for a younger and a better. We came to Baltimore in a great storm, but I was not much damped: I sat in George Roberts’s house,fh48 and received my old friends and all who called to see me.

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I had an opportunity of speaking in Light Street church, upon Romans 1:16-18. We had an open time and an attentive congregation: I felt that the Lord was amongst the people. In the afternoon, at the Old Town church,fh49 I spoke on Romans 17:5.fh50 In the evening I read the Duck Creek and Cumberland account of the work of God: it would not have been greater labour to have preached. We went to bed at eleven o’clock, slept at twelve, waked at four, and at five mounted and hasted away to Perry Hall to preach at eleven o’clock: my text was Mark 9:14-29.

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At Gunpowder Neck I spoke on <19A213>Psalm 102:13; at five o’clock we had a meeting at Abingdon: there is a revival of religion in this circuit. The day is excessively warm: my foot sore—and a high fever. We lodged at William Smith’s.fh51 Sarah Dallam’s eldest daughter, Eliza Stump,fh52 professeth conversion, and her daughter Sarah, and little Philip her youngest son also.

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I preached once more at Josias W. Dallam’s—I could

speak with more faith than usual upon Acts 2:37, for behold! Henry Watters’s son, many years insensible to the things of God, was converted! When we parted with Godfrey,fh53 he looked after us with wishful, willing eyes and heart; that the dear soul should sit nearly thirty years under the Gospel, unconverted and almost unconcerned—how strange! and should be at last visited and converted—how merciful!

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Crossed Susquehannah ferry, and came in to meeting at half- past eleven o’clock: the people were waiting; and I gave a short discourse upon Hebrews 2:3. We dined and rode on to Bohemia Manor.

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Brother Whatcoat preached: I gave a short exhortation. We hope that nearly three thousand souls have been added since last conference in the peninsula of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia.

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We rode rapidly to the brick meeting house in Kent,fh54 a distance not less than twenty-two miles: I was outdone: brother Whatcoat preached upon, “Now we live, if ye stand fast in the faith.”

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We had a love feast for the whites and blacks: there might have been fifteen hundred people. My subject was <19E703>Psalm 147:3-5: this was a trying exercise, but I humbly hope it was not all in vain. We came away, and steered to New Town Chester, fifteen miles, through dust and heat, to keep an appointment made for the night, which held us until after nine o’clock. Fatigue and fever prevented my sleeping.

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We rose at five o’clock, and came off at six, bending our

course to Centerville, seventeen miles. Ah! heavily moves this clay. I came in weary and unwell: I spoke on Romans 10:21. I was greatly assisted in mind and body. After meeting I rode to brother Pinard’s,fh55 where I was glad to lay myself down to rest.

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We came off, cool and calm, to Easton. Brother Whatcoat preached: I gave an exhortation. We take a county and a circuit in a day. I can only say, I am kept from murmuring and sinning: but ah! it is like pressing out life with labour: such extraordinary exertions call for great Divine support, for soul and body. O how sweet will be eternal rest to labouring souls! Our prospects are pleasing in Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot circuits: souls are added to the Church and to Christ; prejudices fall before the force of truth and power of God.

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We came to Bolingbroke: my subject here was

Hebrews 10:38, 39. We dined at William Brown’s:fh56 one of his sons hath found the Lord. A calm and safe passage brought us over Choptank at Ennall’s Ferry.

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In Cambridge we held a meeting in the court house, and had a large, well-behaved congregation to hear: brother Whatcoat spoke on, “To you is the word of this salvation sent.” I made the application, “How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?”

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We had a long ride to William Frazier’s through dust and excessive heat.

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I preached upon Peter’s fall. It was hard to leave loving souls; so we tarried until morning.

I formed a plan for another year, allowing only about twenty days to visit every circuit but Caroline, by one appointment in a circuit and county. DELAWARE

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We came to Choptank, and found that the people had attended the day before, of which we were ignorant, and that no appointment had been made for the Sabbath. It was not light labour to make thirty miles by eleven o’clock; and, worn as I was, I should have failed had not Thomas Fosterfh57 lent me his carriage.

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Arrived in Dover, we found the people collected at the

meeting houses so numerous that they could not be well accommodated: we therefore adjourned to the state house, where I spoke to them from Haggai 2:5-9. Brother Whatcoat preached at the chapel, and I gave an exhortation—and so ended the great meeting in Dover with us. My mind was somewhat taken up with getting another horse, and he did not please me. I went to Dr. Robert Cook’s to see Thomas White’s only surviving daughter, and Sarah Cook. I preached at Duck Creek Cross Roads, upon 1 Thessalonians 1:7-12. I am under some dejection of spirits; yet I know of no cause except bodily infirmity, produced by excessive labour, and speaking long and tolerably loud to large congregations. My foot and my fears are troublesome to me. In the afternoon I must needs go to attend an examination of the children of a school partly under the Methodist direction: I could not have thought the scholars would so greatly improve in so short a time: their improvement reflects honour upon their teacher, a Mr. Hughes, a Methodist from Ireland. The master had provided a medal, but the committee judged it proper to keep it for a future examination. Indeed, the master himself was best entitled to an honorary reward; and this being the general sentiment, a subscription was undertaken for money, to furnish the children each with a small silver piece, and so make them equal—in a free country.

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At Dickerson’sfh58 meeting house I preached upon Matthew 25:46. We rode home with Benjamin Hersey, at Noxontown mill.fh59

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We were righteous overmuch in riding in such haste and heat, thirty miles, without refreshment; but we had fears for the Philadelphia society. At six o’clock I gave a discourse at Wilmington, on 1 Peter 5:7: “Casting all your care upon him, for he careth for you.” First, We should have no care, as ministers or as Christians, but what is proper— such care as may, with humble confidence, be cast upon the Lord. Second, How we should cast the whole upon the Lord—by faith, by prayer, by patience, and resignation. “That the Lord careth for us” as a God. PENNSYLVANIA

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Most excessive heat, through which we rode to conference in Philadelphia.

Sabbath, 31. I preached in Fourth street, on John 3:19. I was very lame. On Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, I attended the session of conference, but on Saturday I remained in my lodgings, and ministered to my sore foot. Our conference was a gracious one. It appeared, as if the preachers were unwilling to elevate their voices lest there should be an appearance of heat or anger; yet with the greatest plainness would they differ from each other, calmly, and in love. Sabbath, June 7. I took up my cross, and stayed quietly in the house with a blister to my foot. We shall see if another operation will be necessary. Minutes and letters took up my attention. We elected and ordained eight deacons, and the same number of elders; on account of my lameness it was done at my lodgings. We were well satisfied in the stationing of the preachers; we received one from Canada, and sent three thither. My soul hath great peace; and although there has been a formidable division threatened, we humbly hope God will overrule it all to his glory.

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Doctor Physickfh60 applied a caustic to my foot.

I wrote to Dr. Coke. My mind is greatly supported under my own troubles, and the afflictions of the Church; nevertheless, the Lord appears glorious upon our continent, and my soul exults in Zion’s prosperity. From the 7th to the 16th no regular journal. Our conference meets this day in New York; and here am I in Philadelphia, and here must I remain in patience and in pain.

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No journal kept. I have had caustic after caustic applied; now I have hope of a cure on my foot.

Sabbath, July 5. I attended at Fourth street: sermon and sacrament. I spoke from 1 Corinthians 11:27-29. I stood upon one knee and one foot, about an hour and a half. I was much assisted, and great solemnity appeared in the congregation. I have little interesting for insertion in a journal. Letters received from the Carolinas advise of a revival of religion. On Wednesday last my foot began to feel better. Dr. Physick, who hath so kindly attended me, gives his decided opinion that my sore is a sinew strain: a dead part of the sinew must still come away.

Sabbath, 12. I preached in Fourth street on Luke 4:18: there were some flowings of life to myself and to the assembly. In the afternoon I spoke at Ebenezer on Isaiah 55:6, 7.

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At St. George’s church, Fourth street, I spoke on the parable of the sower: my congregation was small. In the afternoon, at the Academy,fh61 my subject was James 1:12.

Why should I continue my journal while here? What would it be but a tale of woe?—the society divided, and I, perforce, shut up in Sodom, without any communication with the connexion at large.

Sabbath, 26. At St. George’s, I spoke on 1 Peter 4:17. At Bethel, my text was 1 Peter 4:18.

I have been reading my papers, for a second volume of a journal. June and July of this year are almost blanks with me. I have had my own bodily and soul sufferings; and some violent men have divided the body of Christ in the city of Philadelphia—let such answer for it in this, and the world to come.

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After a serious confinement in Philadelphia of two months of trouble and affliction, I took my departure and rode to the Wheatsheaf,fh62 where we breakfasted, and thence proceeded to Wilmington, Delaware. DELAWARE

I stopped with Allan McLane. I found Mr. Worrelfh63 very ill, and addressed him seriously on the concerns of his soul, commending him to God in prayer. After supper we went to John Miller’s, in Newport.

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I called upon Mr. M’Intire;fh64 we talked, we prayed and rejoiced together in the work of God. I could not pass my old friend Isaac Hersey,fh65 without calling. We could with gratitude review the past, and dwell upon the present dealings of the Lord with us as a people, and say, what hath God wrought?

MARYLAND

Within two miles of North East, the heavens grew big and black with wind and rain: happily for us brother George’s housefh66 was at hand: there we talked, prayed, and sheltered. Sister Howell is very low and languid. I lodged at Daniel Sheredine’s. He has never lost sight of God for twenty- nine years, and now he is united to us.

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I preached at the chapel opposite the church, so called: my text was Luke 7:22, 23; we had a living season.

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We came off at six o’clock, and after riding twenty miles, stopped to take refreshment at Mr. Stump’s, in Bush. I spoke a word of consolation to a true daughter of that excellent woman Sally Dallam, now with Christ; it was a time of great family affliction, but the mourner enjoys divine love for her support.

I came on to Perry Hall. Here were things to arrest my attention—out of sixty or seventy servants, many shouting and praising God. My dear Mr. Gough was somewhat unwell, Mrs. Carroll seriously ill,fh67 and her mother absent in attendance on old Mrs. Carroll, at the Mount. I continued at Perry Hall, from August 3d to Saturday the 15th. An intermittent fever came upon me every morning, and indisposed my stomach: it was with difficulty I could attend to the performance of family and closet duties being much unfitted for reading or writing. I got through a part of Doddridge’s Rise and Progress, and some of Young’s Night Thoughts. The great engagedness of the African part of the family was delightfully pleasing. Gough Hollidayfh68 professed to find the Lord, and one or two more of the family appear to be earnestly seeking him. I preached, read, prayed, exhorted and conversed; but it was not much I could do. Our family, when in the chapel, makes a respectable congregation.

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I spent this day in Baltimore. My indisposition of body was amply compensated by the consolation I felt whilst holding forth upon Matthew 5:8: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” I. The character of those who by justification are, in a special manner, called to be pure in heart; called by promise, by privilege, by duty. II. The purity of the Gospel in authority, in example, precept and spirit; in its operative influence on the understanding, conscience, intentions, will, hopes, fears, joys, sorrows and affections, producing the sanctification of the soul in a deliverance from all sin.

III. The visions: in what manner the pure in heart should see God; they shall see him in his perfections, in his providence, in his works of nature, and the operations of his grace, and they shall see him in his glory! I had a desire to preach in the market house upon Howard’s Hill. I spoke to hundreds, perhaps thousands, upon Luke 14:21: “Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.” I thought it my duty, and I felt it a delight to sanction what the preachers do in preaching abroad: I wished to do it in Philadelphia, and had appointed it, but some of my brethren made strong objections, and it was abandoned. We have peace, health, and union in Baltimore.

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I came from Baltimore to Robert Carnan’s, near the Stone

chapel. This was a day of great and good news. I heard that eight souls professed to find the Lord at a prayer meeting in the city; twelve souls at Cullison’s,fh69 in the Barrens, about fifteen days past; and by letters from Thomas Wilkerson and advices from William M’Kendree, forty souls were happily made subjects of converting grace at a late meeting held in Cumberland, Tennessee—this meeting continued from Saturday until Monday, and there was then no prospect of its concluding soon: the elder was under the necessity of coming away to attend to his other appointments.

I made two visits to a beautiful country seat belonging to Captain Yellott: here is a charming house, fine gardens, and well-improved grounds; but on what lease? Ah, how uncertain are all our earthly enjoyments! My business was with the sick: O, may sweet Sophia find spiritual wisdom, gold tried in the fire, that she may be rich in every virtue and every grace that can adorn the woman, the wife, the mother, the daughter, and the Christian!fh70

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I preached at the Stone chapel at a short notice, to a few serious, respectable people, on 1 John 4:15-17. I spoke next day at Reisterstown on Isaiah 35:3-6: although the warning was short, it was a day of liberty to me. We dined at Weist’s public house,fh71 and proceeded on to Henry Willis’s, at Pipe Creek: we had the company of Jesse Hollingsworth and James M’Cannon:fh72 we felt the heat and feared the rain, but happily arrived before it fell, at a pleasant shelter and a Christian family. Next day we visited the Sulphur Springs, and rested the body a little.

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I preached at the Stone chapel on Hebrews 12:25: it was a gracious season. On Monday we rested.

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We rode to Alexander Warfield’s, on Sam’s Creek. My mind is variously exercised in my infirm state; but I plainly perceive that I must be made perfect through labour, temptation, and many sufferings in the flesh and spirit.

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We visited John Norris’s family:fh73 here I saw the aged mother of ninety years: she reminded me of my own. I dined with the household of Eli Dorsey—the children of my once dear friend Sarah Dorsey, now no more. At James L. Higgins’s I gave a discourse upon 2 Corinthians 6:2.

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We rode up to Stephen Shelmerdine’s.fh74

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At Fredericktown I spoke on Matthew 11:5, 6. Here I met with Bishop Whatcoat and Sylvester Hutchinson:fh75 we formed a plan for our future journeys and labours. They, to visit Maryland by the way of Baltimore and Annapolis, and thence on to Richmond and the towns on the route to Camden in South Carolina, and southward to Georgia; I, in company with Nicholas Snethen, go out to the western conference in Nolichucky, then afterward cross over to the South.

WEST VIRGINIA

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The evening brought us to Thomas Keys’s, upon

Shenandoah. We went by the way of Samuel Phillips’s, to see his dear, afflicted wife—perhaps for the last time in this world: God is still gracious to this family. We also saw Harper’s ferry, and beheld with satisfaction, the good plain buildings erected there by the United States.

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At Charlestown I preached under the shady oaks to perhaps fifteen hundred people, upon Hebrews 10:39: it was a gracious season—truth had its dominion in some minds. We administered the sacrament. I ordained to the office of deacons, John M’Pherson and Thomas Littleton. I rode home with John Davenport. VIRGINIA

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Reached Winchester. Since I left Baltimore, I suppose I have ridden, by crooks, corners, and straight lines, one hundred and thirty miles. My mind in general has been sweetly stayed upon God.

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We spent this day at Elijah Phelps’sfh76—the old

place, and it was like old times.

I received an Address from the most respectable citizens of Winchester, praying the continuance of Mr. Snethen to officiate in the ministry amongst them; but it could not be: he was appointed at Baltimore to travel with me, and I could not get another at this time and place to answer as well.

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We rode through heat and drought to Woodstock. Nicholas Snethen preached upon, “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” I spoke in the evening on Luke 19:10: the house was full, and there were people in the street. We lodged at Madera’s.

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The weather as yesterday: we nevertheless made thirty miles to Jacob Huster’s.

Saturday and Sabbath day were spent at Rockingham quarterly meeting, held in Harrisonburg: the brethren were lively in the sacramental meeting. Many came from far, although the heat was very great. N. Snethen preached on Saturday upon Romans 12:17, and Sabbath day, Romans 12:1. My subject was 1 Peter 4:17. The house could not at all contain the people, we therefore took to the woods; but we failed in shade, and felt some inconvenience in the sun.

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I was very unwell; but I rode. The route led through a fine shade, sixteen miles as computed, but really twenty miles, to William Young’s, formerly an elder in the Presbyterian Church. We had a gracious season. Nicholas Snethen preached on John 3:17. I believe the Lord will work in Augusta county amongst the Presbyterians.

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At Moffit’s meeting house Nicholas Snethen spoke on 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2. My subject was 1 Peter 5:7. The heat, augmented by the long drought, was very oppressive to the system: I was very unwell.

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At Staunton, Nicholas Snethen preached at eleven o’clock. I preached from Acts 3:26. Ministers Wilson and Glendie were present. Nicholas Snethen and Philip Bruce held night meeting—heat! heat!

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We passed Greenville, Fairfield, and came to Lexington to lodge at Shield’s: we got here what failed us on the way—good entertainment.

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We rode by the Rockbridge and Springfield, to Pattonsburg,fh77 and thence on to James Tapscote’s: I was hungry and unwell, having taken cold by exposure to the evening air.

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We came to Fincastle. We have made, I presume, one hundred and twenty miles this week; and some rough roads. I have felt suffering faith, and fervent love to God and souls.

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I preached from 1 John 1:5-7. I had taken cold, attended with a great check to respiration, which made my bodily feelings very uncomfortable.

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We visited Mr. Phillips, a Baptist minister, who received and kindly entertained us: from this fifteen-mile stage we proceeded to Thomas Raborn’s, making thirty-three miles for the day. Greatly desired, and much needed, rain came at last.

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We preached at Raborn’s, brother Snethen and myself, to a very attentive people. I had to excuse my non-attendance at this place last year: the failure was occasioned, first, by my not knowing the distance; secondly, because I was persuaded to take the route by English’s ferry,fh78 as being the better road for a chaise. After meeting we took up our journey across the Allegheny mountain; but finding after we had ridden nearly ten miles that it was growing late, we turned up towards the sun, and housed for the night with John M’Daniel, upon Tom’s Creek. My soul is kept in great peace, and I have grace to bear and suffer, my spirit is calm and pure.

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We came to Pepper’s ferryfh79—behold me once more on New River!

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We held a meeting at Pepper’s chapel. Nicholas Snethen spoke upon 2 Peter 1:10. As I was called upon by recommendation to ordain Edward Morgan to the office of a deacon, my subject was 2 Timothy 4:1, 2. We lodged at Mr. Hance’s.

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We stretched along to Thaddeus Cooley’s, near Wythe court house, and next day came to Charles Hardy’s. My companion’s horse fell to-day, and I had scarcely time to reflect upon the probability of its being my turn, when my little mare also came down; but the Lord preserved man and beast.

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We came over the mountain to Saltville and preached at the widow Russell’s. Nicholas Snethen was greatly enlarged, upon Luke 11:3, 4. I was so feeble, I had but little to say, upon “Behold, now is the day of salvation.” I have a partial restoration of health; but the fever returns every morning, added to which, the severe and constant riding, with want of, and generally irregularity of meals, becomes in a great degree a cause of sickness. I was pleased to see our local brethren come forty and fifty miles to visit me. We met with joy, and parted in tears!

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We had to try Clinch mountains—four miles over. I

continued on horseback, ascending and descending: my sore-backed, slender-jointed beast wrought it but badly. We made twenty-two miles this day, and happily escaped the showers which fell in the afternoon. We lodged at Francis Browning’s.fh80

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We had a meeting at Elk Garden meeting house:fh81 we felt as if in a stove-room while N. Snethen was speaking, upon, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” I spoke from 2 Peter 3:17, 18. We dined at Richard Price’s.fh82 He is now growing very infirm.

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We rode to Castle’s woods.fh83 I was amazed at the

goodness of the Lord to this western country generally; and was surprised and gratified to observe the improvements made in Russell county particularly. I was well weary of riding over such an uneven surface as we have lately passed—at the rate of about twenty miles a day, equal to many more on level land.

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We rested at Charles Bickley’s.fh84 Nicholas Snethen

preached upon Colossians 1:21, 22. I spoke from 2 Corinthians 6:2: “Behold, now is the accepted time.”

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To Copper Creek meeting, fifteen miles. We had mountains, valleys, and rocks, as usual. There was a cabin,fh85 but we delivered our testimony in the woods. After meeting, and refreshing our horses with a bite, we pushed on to Moccasin Creek, crossing it nine times in about five miles: the roads were rough as usual, and the fords at the stream, rocks, loose, or sideling and slippery. We lodged at William Lawson’s.

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We wrought down Moccasin to the Gap,fh86 where the

accumulated waters of the stream have, at some time, apparently burst their way through Clinch Mountain. After recrossing the north branch of Holston, we stopped at John Wadley’s, and refreshed man and beast. Our host became our guide, and tripped over the hills with us in the rain, his mare barefoot, and himself without a saddle to ride on, or a great coat to shield him from the weather.

TENNESSEE

At length we reached Charles Baker’s, upon Main Holston, in safety. I began to feel and to fail. I have ridden about one hundred miles in the last four days; the roads equal to any in the United States for badness. My bowels and my poor horse’s back are in bad order. How much time we have to read, and write, and pray, those who travel with us may judge. Sabbath day, 27. I was unwell, and willing to sit still.

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Attended by John Watson, we crossed Holston and Watauga, near the junction, and came to Dungworth’s.

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I preached upon 2 Timothy 4:7, 8, and then rode on through Jonesborough to Cashe’s.

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I spoke on Hebrews 2:1, and hasted on to Ebenezer to attend the conference.

Our brethren in Kentucky did not attend; they pleaded the greatness of the work of God. Twelve of us sat in conference three days; and we had not an unpleasant countenance, nor did we hear an angry word:—and why should it not always be thus? Are we not the ministers of the meek and lowly, the humble and holy Jesus?

Nicholas Snethen gave us two sermons. We ordained on Friday, Saturday, and Sabbath day, and upon each day I improved a little on the duties of ministers. On the Lord’s day we assembled in the woods, and made a large congregation. My subject was Isaiah 62:1. On Friday and Saturday evenings, and on Sabbath morning, there was the noise of praise and shouting in the meeting house. It is thought there are twenty-five souls who have found the Lord; they are chiefly the children of Methodists—the children of faith and of many prayers.

NORTH CAROLINA

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We parted in great love. Our company made twelve miles to Isaiah Harrison’s, and next day reached the Warm Springs upon French Broad River.fh87

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We made a push for Buncombe court house:fh88 man and

beast felt the mighty hills. I shall calculate from Baker’s to this place one hundred and twenty miles; from Philadelphia, eight hundred and twenty miles.

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Yesterday and to-day we rested at George Swain’s.

Sabbath day, 11. Yesterday and to-day held quarterly meeting at Daniel Killians’sfh89 near Buncombe court house. I spoke from Isaiah 57:6, 7, and 1 Corinthians 7:1. We had some quickenings.

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We came to Murray’sfh90 upon Mud Creek: here we had a

sermon from Nicholas Snethen on Acts 14:15. Myself and James Douthetfh91 gave an exhortation. We had very warm weather and a long ride. At Major Brittain’sfh92 near the mouth of Mill’s river, we found a lodging.

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We came in haste up to elder Davidson’s, refreshed man and beast, commended the family to God, and then struck into the mountain. The want of sleep and other inconveniences made me unwell. We came down Saluda River near Saluda Mountain: it tried my lame feet and old feeble joints. French Broad, in its meanderings, is nearly two hundred miles long; the line of its course is semicircular; its waters are pure, rapid, and its bed generally rocky, except the Blue Ridge; it passes through all the western mountains. We continued at John Douthet’sfh93 on Wednesday, and Thursday furnished a meeting. Nicholas Snethen spoke upon 1 John 5:10. I spoke also; my subject was Hosea 10:12. SOUTH CAROLINA

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We reached Samuel Burdine’s,fh94 sixteen miles. Nicholas Snethen spoke from 1 John 5:4, 5. I followed from Titus 2:11, 12. Sabbath, 18. Yesterday and to-day we attended quarterly meeting at Salem, near Staunton’s ferry, upon Saluda River.fh95 Nicholas Snethen’s subject was <19B959>Psalm 119:59, 60. I came off with reading a letter containing an account of the revival of religion amongst the Presbyterians and Methodists in Cumberland. On the Sabbath Nicholas Snethen spoke upon Luke 14:26; the ground I took was John 3:19, 20. After a shower on Saturday it cleared up cold, with the wind from the north-west. The house would not contain our Sabbath congregation; they stood in front of the cabin, under whose projecting roof we found shelter from the sun. Our situation was eligible, because the voice was thrown forward, and because we were protected from the wind whilst speaking. James Jenkinsfh96 followed with a call to backsliders. The people were serious, but I heard of no conversions. We lodged at Henry Parriss’s, on the Grove.

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At John Bramblet’s, Greensville. After meeting, we rode to Thomas Terry’s, upon Reedy River.fh97

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Thanks be to God for one night’s rest. I calculate that we have ridden eighty miles since we left John Douthet’s. O Lord! thou preservest man and beast. We attended a meeting at a Presbyterian vacant house. Nicholas Snethen preached upon Isaiah 55:6. I read James M’Gready’s narrative of the work of God in Logan county, Kentucky.fh98

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We rode sixteen miles to the widow Bramlett’s meeting

house.fh99 Nicholas Snethen spoke on Matthew 5:3. I followed from 2 Peter 1:4. We rode four miles to Daniel M’Kee’s, where we held a meeting in the evening.

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We came twenty miles to Caseys.fh100 late and lost, and

arrived whilst Coleman Carlislefh101 was holding forth. I only read a letter and gave an exhortation. This family (the Caseys) entertained us when we were few in number in these parts.

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We rode ten miles to Bigg’s meeting house, and held a

meeting. Nicholas Snethen preached from 1 Timothy 1:5; I only exhorted—the wind all the while blowing freely upon my naked head. We kept on ten miles to Davis’s; here we held an evening meeting: Nicholas Snethen preached, and I exhorted.

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We had to attend a meeting appointed at Broad River circuit. Nicholas Snethen spoke from 2 Timothy 2:8. I only exhorted, and read a letter giving an account of the work of God in Kentucky. We have been working this week from Saluda to Reedy River, down the Enoree, crossing and recrossing through Pendleton, Greensville, Laurens, Spartanburg, and Newbury counties in South Carolina. I cannot record great things upon religion in this quarter; but cotton sells high. I fear there is more gold than grace—more of silver than of “that wisdom that cometh from above.”

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At Buford’s meeting housefh102 Nicholas Snethen preached from James 1:4; there was some breathing after life. We lodged at Mr. Hardy’s.

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At Bethelfh103 Nicholas Snethen preached on Hebrews 10:32. I afterward gave a discourse. We next day attended a meeting at the widow Coate’s, in the Bush River circuitfh104: Nicholas Snethen spoke on Matthew 5:20. I gave a few words on Luke 8:18. We had an open season; and were made happy at John Myers’s,fh105 the steward of the circuit.

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We had a long ride to Edgefield court house, and were kindly entertained at Doctor Fuller’s:fh106 the town was in great disorder, it being court time.

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We came in haste to Daniel Baugh’s: here we met Bishop

Whatcoat, Sylvester Hutchinson,fh107 who had come along rapidly. At the meeting house, where we spent about three hours, we were joined by Stith Mead, John Garven, and Lewis Mycrel.fh108 Now we formed a plan for future labours and travel: it was concluded that Bishop Whatcoat should go from the centre, east to Savannah and St. Mary’s; whilst I go west, in Georgia.

GEORGIA

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We came to Augusta. On the Sabbath day Nicholas Snethen

preached; after which I gave a few thoughts upon, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people”; Nicholas Snethen spoke again, in the afternoon, on the choice of Moses. Bishop Whatcoat held forth at night. We have a very large and most elegant house in this place,fh109 for which we are indebted, chiefly, to the generosity of the inhabitants. Our congregations are most respectable, and very attentive; but I heard of no conversions—the time for this is not yet come.

We have travelled this week one hundred and twenty miles. The season is exceedingly dry. I was made glad to find one who had departed from God for fifteen years, happily restored to the Lord and to myself; his own dear wife and child, and a family of one hundred souls, are also in the enjoyment of religion. Maryland appears as if it would feel the millennium in a few years.

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We rested in Augusta. In the evening we rode to

Mr. Lacey’s, and next day travelled on to Columbia, twenty miles, and stopped with brother Allen, a local preacher. We had our brothers Hutchinson and Mead with us.fh110

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At Scott’s meeting house, upon Little River, Nicholas Snethen spoke on the Pharisee and publican. We came home with Mr. Gatrell. Here we parted with Bishop Whatcoat and his assistant, they directing their course south-west, across the State, and by a circle to Savannah and St. Mary’s.

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We came an hour too late to the Cross Roads: Nicholas

Snethen spoke from 1 Timothy 4:8. I followed from Isaiah 61:1-3. By riding a little in the rain and evening damps, we arrived at Richard Easter’s in Petersburg, at the junction of the rivers, on which are the towns of Lisbon and Vienna in South Carolina. Petersburg is beautifully situated, has about eighty houses, well constructed for stores, and about one hundred buildings in all; they are generally one story in height, well painted, with convenient shed attached.fh111 At noon we held a meeting; the day was cold, and the house open. At night I preached in Richard Easter’s house on Isaiah 40:31; the people were very attentive.

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At Thompson’s meeting housefh112 Nicholas Snethen preached from Matthew 18:19, 20. We also held a meeting on the Sabbath. I suppose we have now travelled twelve hundred miles since leaving Philadelphia. I often have it whispered in my ear, what certain folks are pleased to say of my being an Englishman. How can I help that; I am not ashamed of it. But I am seeking souls, and Zion’s glory; heaven is my country.

“There is my house and portion fair,

My treasure and my heart are there,

And my abiding home;

For me my elder brethren stay,

And angels beckon me away,

And Jesus bids me come.”

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At Pellum’s we had many people, to whom Nicholas Snethen spoke upon Matthew 5:8. We lodged at Captain Blackman’s.

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Nicholas Snethen spoke at Coldwaterfh113 on Matthew 11:28, 29; and next day, at Oliver’s chapel,fh114 again, upon Psalms 85:8Psalm 85:8; I followed with a few words upon 1 John 1:6, 7. We lodged at Stinchecomb’s: here I found Maryland people who heard me when children.

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We came to Redwine’s.fh115 Here some have been awakened amongst the Methodists, and have joined the Baptists; thus we have laboured, and others reap the fruit.

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At Carroll’s meeting house Nicholas Snethen preached from Titus 2:14. I spoke from Acts 20:16-18. We have had large, lively meetings. We lodged at Mr. Allen’s. Here Nicholas Snethen left me to go and spend five or six weeks in Augusta, at the desire of the citizens; he can be better spared now, as we are near the frontiers, and the congregations are small, and brother Benjamin Blanton is with me.

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We came to Park’s meeting house,fh116 Brother Blanton

spoke on John 12:35; my subject was Hebrews 6:11, 12. We have travelled about one hundred miles since our entrance into Georgia, passing through parts of Richmond, Columbia, Lincoln, Elbert, and Franklin counties. The evenings and mornings have been cold; the people, however, are extremely kind. I have experienced great sensible enjoyment of God— our cabins and courts, when Jesus is there. In my ministry I have been greatly assisted, but unless I am more temperate in my talk, in tone and time, I shall not be able to manage more than every other day. In a serious conference with Bishop Whatcoat, Nicholas Snethen, Lyle, Hutchinson, and myself, it plainly appeared, that the best way in future would be to meet at the Virginia conference, and thence continue together to the New York conference; after which, one might go to the east, and the other to the western conference: the bishop who went east, would then visit the Eastern States and the lake country, and thence onward to Pittsburg and the Virginia districts; the bishop who goeth west, will visit over the Blue Ridge, Holston, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, South and North Carolina, to the conferences in the centre of the work: where both will meet again:—in this we all agreed. It was also determined, that each bishop should always have an elder as a travelling companion. Sabbath, 15. I spoke on <19E702>Psalm 147:2-4. Brother Blanton spoke upon redeeming the time. We had lodged at Henry Park’s. Several persons of the Presbyterian society, upon hearing read Mr. Hodges’s letter to me, communed with us.

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We rode to George Christian’s. Here we made a stand at an Ephrata in the woods, where the logs were laid for a meeting house. My subject was <19E518>Psalm 145:18-20. On Tuesday, my foundation was laid upon Zechariah 12:10. It was the voice of the Lord Jesus: 1st. How he was pierced by the house of David, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem—how he is now pierced by open sinners, formal and false professors and backsliders 2d. The effects of the outpouring of the Spirit—prayers and sorrows. We lodged at Mr. Walker’s, formerly a Presbyterian: his father wishes a more intimate acquaintance with the Methodists, whom he has now heard for the first time. We could not finish our meeting in the woods the second day, being prevented by a storm of wind and rain.

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We rode with haste into Jackson—a proper frontier

county. We halted at Professor Horton’s. I was very unwell, but spoke, after brother Blanton, upon Luke 4:18, 19. The house and yard held the people. In returning from an upper room, whither I had retired, being slip- shod, I lost my feet, and went from step to step, until the turn stopped me—my back suffered in my fall.

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We found at Tidwell’s a very open house in the woods. I

spoke from Acts 3:26. At Freeman’s, next day, we had another open house lately put up, where brother Blanton held forth, upon “the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint.” My subject was Isaiah 35:3-6. We started, hungry and cold, crossing at Malone’s mill, a branch of Oconee, and came to Henry Pope’s in Oglethorpe. We have ridden about eighty miles this week of short and cold days. Why should a living man complain?—but to be three months together upon the frontiers, where, generally, you have but one room and fireplace, and half a dozen folks about you, strangers perhaps, and their family certainly (and they are not usually small in these plentiful new countries), making a crowd—and this is not all; for here you may meditate if you can, and here you must preach, read, write, pray, sing, talk, eat, drink, and sleep—or fly into the woods. Well! I have pains in my body, particularly my hip, which are very afflictive when I ride; but I cheer myself as well as I may with songs in the night— with Wesley’s, Watt’s, and Stennett’s Sight of Canaan, in four hymns. In this country are seen evident traces of a great population, which has some time existed before the present discoverers and settlers of America.

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Quarterly meeting was held at Pope’s meeting house. We

had some rain. My text was Matthew 11:28-30. It was an open time. We lodged at Henry Pope’s. Hope Hull came in dripping in the evening, to meet the Lord and his brethren.

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We had about one thousand people to hear. I came forward again upon Titus 2:15. Hope Hull and Stith Mead held forth after me. It was an open season. I baptized some adults and infants.

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We went forward to the widow Stuart’s, upon the branches of Little River, in Oglethorpe county: we had a cold day, but a blessed meeting which held eight hours; several were converted, and a society was formed, consisting of fifteen souls. I lodged at General John Stuart’s.

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We had a long ride on a cold day, and arrived at an open house: my subject was, “He that saith he abideth in him, ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” Our meeting continued three hours, and four souls professed converting grace. I have ridden thirty miles to-day to Wyatt’s, hungry and cold. We frequently breakfast at seven o’clock, and dine at six o’clock in the evening.

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At Libertyfh117 I spoke on Matthew 5:8. I lodged with Joshua Moore: in this family I have served three generations, in Delaware and in Georgia. In Liberty there is life—many souls have been brought to God, even children.

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My subject at Butler’s was Revelation 22:14: a cold day this. At Chesnut Level, a beautiful spot, we housed with Mr. Bush: this is an agreeable family, for whom God has worked—and will yet work.

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We came to a new house, in Warren county, called Rehoboth, built by the zeal of brothers Fontaine and Randall. I felt enlargement upon 1 Peter 5:7.

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At Heath’s I spoke from <19C605>Psalm 126:5, 6; we had an open time. In our crowded house were many brethren and sisters from far. The power of God was present at our night meeting. Georgia promises something great, under the presidentship of Stith Mead; as does also Maryland (west) under that of Wilson Lee. It is of great consequence to have men in the spirit of the work, as president elders of districts.

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I spoke in the woods at a small distance from the chapel, which the society held in possession: their love feast began at nine o’clock, and held until three o’clock: eight souls are believed to have found peace with God; among whom was a little daughter of Mr. Bush’s, about nine years of age. My subject was Isaiah 62:6, 7. I was often interrupted by singing and shouting. I was comfortably provided with lodging, at the house of Lawyer Stith’s, whither I had been affectionately invited—may my friends find grace here and glory hereafter!

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I called, after fervent and frequent application, upon Mr. Noseworthy: he was once in the possession of religion, and in the exercise of the ministry; but changes and worldly prosperity have wrought an unfavourable change upon him: when in distress he calleth upon God, and wisheth to have the prayers of the servants of God. Lord, save him and his family! We found Smyrna meeting house deserted by removals to other neighbourhoods; but I had an open season upon 1 Corinthians 6:2. I lodged with James Thweatt.

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At Sparta,fh118 after various exercises of mind, I

fixed upon 2 Peter 3:17, 18. Here I saw several acquaintances from Virginia—Jarrattites from Dinwiddie county, amongst whom I was kindly entertained at the house of Mr. Lucas.fh119 Whilst I was reading Mr. M’Gready’s letter, a Presbyterian-Methodist woman shouted and warned the Spartans to flee from the wrath to come. I lodged with Henry Moss, an old disciple from Virginia.

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At Hathorne’s, many attended: my subject was Titus 2:11, 12. We came to Henry Harris’s that night.

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At Harris’s meeting house I spoke from <19E605>Psalm 146:5-9.

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At new chapel, Williams’s swamp, my groundwork was John 3:16. We were indebted for lodging to D. Davis. Next day we went onward to New Hope, to hold our quarterly meeting. At the close of the week I feel that I fail; the heat of the weather and the want of water—good water—I presume to be the cause. We had a noise and a shaking under brother Mead’s preaching; but I was unwell and dispirited. We have been travelling in Hancock and Washington counties, and have made about ninety miles this week. I lodged at Richard Burney’s; he has a wife and ten living children, the mother of whom appears to be as active as any of the family.

Our love feast began at nine o’clock, and held until three o’clock in the afternoon. Notwithstanding the wind was at north-west, myself and the congregation had to seek an open place in the woods: my improvement was upon Matthew 11:5, 6. Three souls professed to be converted: they were baptized, and joined the society. I lodged at Jesse Jordan’s.

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We came to Father Brett’s.

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We crossed the stream of Williamson’s swamp, the Central Stream and Rocky Comfort; these three streams are the principal branches of the Ogeechee, and make their junction near the seat of government. I preached in the State housefh120: it was an easterly, cold, damp, day: my subject was 2 Corinthians 5:19, 20. I dined with Doctor Powell, and housed for the night with Colonel John Lewis.

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I preached to a few people in a solitary place amongst the pines, on Luke 11:13. We dined at Mr. Pollitt’s, and came on to Colonel Johnson’s.

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We came to Coxe’s meeting house in Burke countyfh121—it was an open house, a cold day, and a cold people in the fullest sense of the word.

We came on across Brier and M’Vean’s Creek to the Widow Brack’s: here I preached a funeral discourse on the occasion of the death of her late husband: my subject was 1 Corinthians 15:56, 57.

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We came to Augusta, and arrived whilst Nicholas Snethen

was preaching. Riding in the cold and writing in the night have occasioned a weakness in my eye.

Sabbath, 13. Ordaining Brothers Joshua Moore and Gilmore to the office of deacons, and assisting at the sacrament, made all my labours for this day. We had an excellent discourse from Nicholas Snethen on Rev. 2:4, 5. The Lord hath made windows in heaven, and he can do it again, and souls may be converted in Augusta. Here I leave the State of Georgia. SOUTH CAROLINA

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I found Weatherley meeting housefh122 much neater than I expected: my subject here was 2 Corinthians 4:14: “For the love of Christ constraineth us.” I know not what beside should move a Christian minister to travel and labour in this country.

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Through the rain to Chester’s. Next day to Trotter’s, where we had damp weather, an open house, and few people. I lodged at Mr. Trotter’s.fh123

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At Jacob Barr’s,fh124 upon Edisto, I spoke from 2 Timothy 4:7, 8—few people. In Georgia “I groaned, being burdened”; but my congregations were considerably larger, my rides shorter, and the people abundantly more feeling and fervent than they are here. I have ridden eighty sandhill miles: the weather is very changeable; I feel my old age and infirmities; my eyes and feet are feeble; but, glory to God! I have strong faith for myself and for the prosperity of Zion. Glory, glory, glory to God! Amen!

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At Cattle Creekfh125 my text was Hebrews 6:11, 12. After speaking I read the letters narrative of the work of God. I lodged at Sebastian Fanchesse’sfh126 and was entertained like a president. Sabbath, 20. I attended love feast and sacrament, and preached on Matthew 11:28-30: the people were very still; a few tears were the only signs of feeling which we saw. I lodged with Thomas Simpson.

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At the Indian Fields,fh127 I spoke from Hebrews 10:38; the preachers attended with me, and bore their parts in the religious exercises of the meeting.

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We rode in a damp morning to the Cypress, within thirty miles of Charleston:fh128 I spoke here on 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2. I felt some opening. Next day I returned to John Moore’sfh129 and gave a discourse on Hebrews 2:3.

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The Four Holes is a name given to a river because there are four sinks or holes upon the banks: here, at the White meeting house,fh130 I preached on 2 Peter 3:18: “But grow in grace.” 1. We should have grace planted or sown in our souls. 2. Grow in the habits and exercises of grace. 3. Rules by which we should grow in grace. 4. By what rules we may judge of our growth in grace. I lodged at Jacob Dantzler’s.fh131 The Four Holes and Wasmassaw are about eighty miles long; the former, the north—the latter, the central branch of the Edisto River:fh132 this settlement was originally peopled by the Dutch Presbyterians: they have declined in language and in religion: the last is reviving in the present rising generation, many of whom have joined the Methodists.

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We came to Whetstone’s meeting housefh133 to hold our

quarterly meeting: many people attended at noon and at night. I have made a proper visit through Edisto, which I had not before done. I find the truth of an observation made by dear John Wesley to Doctor Coke, upon his going to Nova Scotia: the doctor said he did not think highly of the place; “That is because you have never been there,” replied Wesley—”when you are there you will think and feel for the people.” I have now ridden about seventeen hundred miles upon this tour. I have had close communion with God, and enlargement in preaching the word of life to saints, seekers, and sinners.

Sabbath, 27. Sylvester Hutchinson preached; I only exhorted. As we had seven preachers present, who were on their way to conference, we employed the day and the night in the work. On Monday we crossed the Congaree at Hart’s ferry,fh134 and came to Pickering’s; and next day continued on to Camden, crossing Wateree, at English ferry;fh135 parts of our route led over deep sands, and all through was barren. I wrote answers to letters.

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