1802

1802. We opened conference,fi1 I gave a discourse upon

Isaiah 66:1-3. We conducted our business in great peace, and upon the Sabbath day were ready for the ordination of seven elders and seven deacons. The members of our conference, with a few others, made up our congregations, to whom we preached at noon and at night each day. Nicholas Snethen spoke on “Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased”; and also on the hidden leaven. Our finances were low: the married and the single preachers were paid up; but there was no surplus for the children.fi2 On Tuesday the 5th, we concluded our labours in the greatest harmony. It was thought best to divide South Carolina into two districts; one called Saluda, the other Camden:fi3 they were placed under the president eldership of two natives of the State—James Jenkins, and George Dougherty.

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We rode through heavy damps and dews, twenty miles, to James Rembert’s.fi4

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We made a heavy stretch to Pudding Swamp; but there was

no admittance for us at a certain house which shall be nameless: we were as kindly entertained as heart could wish at Mr. Lesesne’s;fi5 I believe the providence of God led us hither, that preaching might be brought to, and a society formed, at this house.

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We had rain, and came dripping by Kings Tree, and by the lower bridge upon Black River: we were made comfortable, and very welcome at Mr. Miller’s.

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We reached Georgetown. I shall put our pleasures and our

pains in a small compass. We were but four days riding one hundred and twenty miles; the weather is like April. I have now made one thousand nine hundred miles. My soul hath been surprisingly stayed upon, and devoted to Jehovah. What South Carolina was, as to Methodism, when I came first to Georgetown, I know; and what it is now, I know: but what may it be thirty years hence?

Sabbath, 10. At Georgetown Nicholas Snethen spoke upon Philippians 2:1, 2; in the afternoon I spoke upon Galatians 6:9; at night, Nicholas Snethen again held forth upon “O that they were wise,” &c.

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We took the path; dined on the fare we brought with us; and lodged with Mr. Rogers, in Kingston;fi6 having made the distance forty-two miles by going somewhat out of the way.

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We had between forty and fifty people to hear us in an open house. We lodged at Mr. Wilson’s. Next day we crossed Wacamaw at Kingston, came on to Little River,fi7 fed at M. Hankin’s, and reached Abraham Bessant’s, where we housed for the night. NORTH CAROLINA

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Nicholas Snethen came forward in the name of his Master: I followed upon “Consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest you be wearied and faint in your minds.” After preaching, we rode on to the house of my once dear friend William Gause, senior; but death had stolen a march upon me—the body of my friend was in the dust, his soul is, I hope and trust, with God.

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I visited old Ocean: upon my return I made out a plan for fourteen months’ travelling.

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We attended a meeting at Charlottevillefi8 meeting house: Nicholas Snethen spoke upon “Faith, hope, and charity”; I followed on “Let us come therefore boldly, to the throne of grace.” We have ridden a solitary, sandy way, about a hundred and ten miles; and in three meetings there were not many more than one hundred souls. O Lord, can these dry bones live? I have been kept in a dependent, praying state of soul. We have the most delightful weather, kind friends, and good entertainment for man and beast. I trust the seed sown in the hearts of some will live and grow to the glory of God, and the good of generations to come to the end of time. I have now filled up two thousand miles of the three thousand I had calculated to be the distance from and back again to Philadelphia; hitherto I have been mightily helped. Glory, glory, glory to the Eternal Trinity in Eternal Unity! We lodged at John Gause’s:fi9 our host is a local minister, and, I trust, a dear child of God; I hope he never may entail the system of slaveholding upon his posterity.

Sabbath, 17. At Lockwood’s Folly meeting house Nicholas Snethen spoke upon a portion of Psalm 119. I followed from the Epistle General of John 3:1, 2. It was an exceedingly cold day, and few people. As there were some difficulties in our way, we came off to Town Creek, and housed with Charles Gause: we made our Sabbath day’s journey thirty miles, and yet had time to dine in the woods.

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Hearing of an appointment for the circuit preachers, we would not lose time, but rode down to New Hope. We both spoke, and then went on to Rolks’s,fi10 where we lodged for the night.

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Could we have crossed the creek to Edward Sullivan’s we should have saved ourselves a ride of seven miles round it. Nicholas Snethen went forward upon “Take heed, and beware of covetousness”: after him I followed with a warning voice, “Wherefore the Holy Ghost saith, Today, if ye will hear his voice harden not your hearts.”

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At Wilmington I found matters not altogether as I could

wish, neither temporally nor spiritually; in both these relations had the African church been willed to my care; another relation I preserved by the appointment of African stewards. Nicholas Snethen preached on 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4. I gave a discourse upon “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk,” &c. Nicholas Snethen again held forth: his subject was 1 John 4:4.

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We came to Topsail, and dined with Mrs. Campbell, a gracious soul, and so also is her daughter. Thence we went forward to the Widow Spicer’s,fi11 and arrived about an hour in the night. The sands were heavy, and our horses began to fail greatly.

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We rode up to New River, where we found Lot Ballard out among the woods, with his own and his father’s old mansion moved together. Want of shoes, rest, and food had almost done over my little mare.

Sabbath, 24. Nicholas Snethen spoke upon Romans 8:6, 7. I gave an exhortation upon John 5:39, 40. It was not at all agreeable to me to see nearly a hundred slaves standing outside, and peeping in at the door, whilst the house was half empty: they were not worthy to come in because they were black! Farewell, farewell to that house forever!

I have close communion with God. If we spare our lungs, yet must we work our bones and our flesh with riding. We lodged at B. Wilder’s.fi12 Next day we came along through the rain to Mr. Hargate’s,fi13 near the head of Trent River.

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We arrived in Newbern. Our evening lecture by Nicholas

Snethen was upon Psalm 51: “Against thee only have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight.” He again spoke on Thursday, and on Friday evening also: I concluded each meeting with prayer. We were crowded every night. I judged it needful to make some temporal and spiritual arrangements for the society in Newbern—that a travelling preacher shall attend every Sabbath is one. Newbern is a trading, growing town; there are seven hundred or a thousand houses already built, and the number is yearly increased by less or greater additions, among which are some respectable brick edifices; the new court house, truly so; neat and elegant; another famous house, said to be designed for the masonic and theatrical gentlemen: it might make a most excellent church. The population of the town, citizens, and transient persons, may amount to three thousand five hundred or four thousand souls.

Sabbath day, 31. Cold and cloudy. I gave a sermon upon Romans 2:7,

8. Nicholas Snethen spoke from Hebrews 13:16; and in the evening, on 1 John 4:10, 11. We made a public collection which amounted to nearly sixty dollars; and parted from our brethren, whom we left full of good resolutions to finish the house of God: the African Methodists also were about to build a place of worship. Truly we are encouraged; our own people are stirred up, and judges, counsellors, doctors, and ministers, attended our preaching, and appeared to be pleased: may they be profited, and finally saved!

We had a severe ride to Washington, thirty-five miles, crossing Neuse and Tar Rivers: near the end of our ride the rain quickened our pace, and drove us in about five o’clock to the hospitable shelter of Ralph Potts (of Alnwick, Northumberland), where we had all things richly to enjoy.

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Considering the inclemency of the day, we had a

very respectable congregation to hear us: who can tell what God will do for these people? At our evening meeting many attended: the subject spoken from was Luke 14:26.

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We came up to ——’s, and stopped awhile, and then

pushed on to Brother Perry’s:fi14 it was a solitary ride. Our host is one of our local ministry in Pitt county. I judged it highly expedient that Roanoke and Pamlico circuits should be divided, and that Washington should have Sabbath preaching every week: it is a growing town of one hundred houses, and there is a good house for public worship.

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We came to Garratt Toole’s plantation; but the bird was flown—our old friend had removed to Franklin county for his health: we stayed with Mr. Davidson, the steward of his estate.

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At Tarboro we held our meeting in the neat new chapel:

Nicholas Snethen spoke upon, “This day is salvation come to this house”; the ground work of my discourse was, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people”: I said but few words. We dined with Mr. Isaac Guion, and lodged with Mr. John Bellamy. We rejoiced in hope that Tarboro and Halifax will yet hear and receive the Gospel: Henry Bradfordfi15 hath been preaching in the latter, and brother Bellamy in the former with some success. We attended at Prospect Hill. It was an exceedingly cold day, as need be. I only exhorted after Nicholas Snethen had described the new creature in Christ Jesus. We fed our horses, and ourselves ate in the woods, and then went forward to Henry Bradford’s. My soul is continually stayed upon and comforted in God: but it is not needful to tell all my outward difficulties and inward sufferings: heaven will make up for all—and then we shall know all we wish and wait to know. Sabbath, 7. Was a very cold and cloudy day: we held our meeting in the dwelling house, and filled both rooms. Nicholas Snethen spoke on 2 Timothy 2:11-13. My text was 2 Peter 3:17, 18.

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We crossed Roanoke at Pollock’s ferry, and came to Richard Whitaker’s. We had no appointment at Rehoboth, but on Tuesday we called a meeting:—Nicholas Snethen spoke on <501405> Philippians 2:5; I followed from Matthew 5:8. At Anthony Moore’sfi16 we called a meeting, where each of us delivered our testimony, and then rode on to Mr. People’s:fi17 here the presiding elder made an appointment, by including it with others, but of this there was no notice given, except by our coming into the neighbourhood the evening before: we would not neglect our duty, but at Malone’s we faithfully, according to the grace and time given, discharged our task and rode on.

VIRGINIA

Brunswick county. We had a cold, damp ride to Matthew Myrick’s. On Friday we preached at Dromyrick new meeting house: Nicholas Snethen spoke, and I followed: at Wolsey meeting house Nicholas Snethen preached; I only exhorted. I called upon Doctor Simm’s, who cut a small wart from my hand and applied the caustic: my right foot was also wounded, by a splinter of lightwood perhaps.

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We attended at Hickesford, alias Bellfield: in the academyfi18 we had a large congregation of the rich and the poor, to whom Nicholas Snethen preached from Deuteronomy 32:29. I also spoke on Luke 19:10. We lodged at Miss Jenny Fisher’s.

Nicholas Snethen preached, I only exhorted at Peter Pelham’s: of the children of this family I could say many favourable things—but ah! they are not converted!

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At Hobb’s meeting house Nicholas Snethen spoke on

Romans 8:12, 13; my portion of the word was Hebrews 2:3. At Merritt’s chapel, Nicholas Snethen spoke on, “Recompense no man evil for evil.” I followed on Hebrews 6:11, 12. We rode home with John Easter, and made our ride thirty miles—nearly a day’s journey. The inflammation, from the operation on my hand, was attended with pain: I kept it down by bread and milk poultice; and applied spirits of turpentine to assuage the effects of the caustic. We have been received with great affection by our local brethren, Edward Dromgoole, Ira Ellis, H. Saunders, A. Brown, John Easter, and H. Merritt:fi19 but the travelling preachers and presiding elders keep at their work; we seldom see them as we travel two and two. My soul is very solemn.

On Thursday, at John Easter’s, we had many people for the day and place. Nicholas Snethen always speaks first: my text was Hebrews 12:25.

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Was a cold day at Peter Robinson’s, Dinwiddie county, yet many attended. I saw my old friend, the weeping widow Jarratt. My text was James 1:22. Henry Reece, John Easter, John Jones, and Samuel S. Stuart, preachers, were present. We had a gracious season.

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At Maye’s meeting house, Nottoway county. I preached from Acts 2:42. The day was unpleasant. We came back to Peter Robinson’s.

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It began to rain as we set out; we rode into Brunswick again to John Rogers’s: he is an old Jarrattite Methodist; a few attended in the dwelling house, to whom Nicholas Snethen first spoke on the common salvation; I followed on Hebrews 2:1. We had not a rapid, mountain- like rain and a hard lodging, but a warm house and a good bed—fit for a president: it rained freely in the night—we heard, but did not feel it. On Monday we had a snow storm; yet with a few hours’ notice, several came out to Thomas Jordan’s—I hope not in vain: my subject was Hebrews 4:15, 16. By computation, we have filled up two thousand five hundred miles to Thomas Jordan’s. On Tuesday we rested: my hand was inflamed, and the weather was cold.

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At Maye’s we found a small appointment had been made

for the circuit preacher: I spoke upon Matthew 11:28-30. I sent for Doctor Asa Barnes, who probed the wound in my hand, and prepared a sublimated plaster, which brought on a discharge in twenty-four hours: I give him credit for his skill and friendship.

On our route to Charles Ogburne’sfi20 on Thursday, we crossed Meherrin on a low bridge, whilst the water in places flowed over the planks. Next day I spoke on, “Faith, hope, and charity”; and on Saturday, at Zion Chapel, on “Examine yourselves whether ye be in the faith.”

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At Salem.fi21

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We began and held close conference four days;fi22 and

had preaching each day: Bruce, Lee, Jackson, and Snethen were our speakers; and there was a shaking among the people. Seven deacons and one elder were ordained. I was well pleased with the stations, as far as they went; but Portsmouth, Bertie, Roanoke, Haw River, Guilford, and Salisbury should each have had an additional preacher, if we had them; yea, Petersburg, Hanover, Williamsburg, and Richmond also; but the Lord hath not sent them, and how can we make them? There was great strictness observed in the examination of the preachers’ characters: some were reproved before the conference for their lightness and other follies.fi23

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We rode to Peter Wyche’s, and next day called upon Jane Fisher on our way to Jones’s.

Sabbath, 7. At Jones’s chapel I preached on <19C401>Psalm 124:1, 2. Ah! where is the Lord God of Elijah—the God who once answered him with power— with fire?

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At Pennington’s Nicholas Snethen preached; I only exhorted. We came in haste to Brigg’s, to see the children; the dear parents had both died in the space of one week. At Lane’s chapel, next day, Nicholas Snethen and myself both preached: my subject was Psalms 42:5Psalm 42:5; it is remarkable that these words are repeated thrice, like Peter’s vision.

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We came to Joseph Moody’s, Isle of Wight county: our

appointment had not reached this place. Next day we proceeded to Suffolk, and arrived in the evening at the house of our dear friends, Mr. and Mrs. Yerbury, who received us with great affection. The house was small, and we had a dripping evening, which kept some back: my subject was Exodus 20:24. Since my last visit they have collected money and materials to build a chapel, which will be shortly raised.

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We rode down, through wet woods and a damp day to

Portsmouth, resting and refreshing on our route at David M’Keesy’s on the Middle Ground: in the evening, Nicholas Snethen preached on, “For we walk by faith and not by sight.” On Saturday evening it was my turn; I spoke on James 1:22.

Sabbath, 14. As the wind was high, I thought Nicholas Snethen might as well speak at Norfolk in the morning, and myself at Portsmouth: my text in the afternoon was Matthew 5:8; in the afternoon, “For it is God that worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” I confined myself to experience; and there was a melting among the people.

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We came to brother Denbigh’s, to early dinner; thence

proceeded to Suffolk, where I stepped into three houses, and continued on our way to Charles Murphy’s to lodge. I felt that I had injured myself by laying by one of my coats too soon.

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We called at Michael Murphy’s and proceeded on to Blunt’s chapel: Nicholas Snethen gave a discourse upon brotherly love; I only exhorted, and added a narrative of the work of God: we have made up two thousand six hundred and sixty miles. My mind hath been sweetly stayed upon God at all times and in all places.

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We came sixteen miles, to Doctor Bailey’s, in Surry

county. Nicholas Snethen’s horse was taken with a violent colic, and rolled upon the ground in great agony; he was relieved, however, by drenching with sturgeon’s oil and clysters. I left the man and horse, and came on to William Birdsong’s.

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I dined at friend Nixon’s, where I was kindly entertained; I left my kind host, and came on to Petersburg.

Next day, by appointment, I preached John Lee’sfi24 funeral sermon; my text was <506522> Philippians 2:22: “But ye know the proof of him, that as a son with the father, hath he served with me in the Gospel.” I. The excellency of the Gospel. II. The service of the Gospel. III. The proof of Timothy—his pious parents; his education, conviction, conversion, call, and ordination, his ministry; his obedience as a son with a father—in mutual love, in mutual confidence, and mutual services: I showed the excellency of a patriarchal or fatherly government in the Church. I paralleled John Lee’s character with Timothy’s, in his manner of living, labouring, and death. Nicholas Snethen came up and preached at night. On Saturday we arrived at Richmond, and next day Nicholas Snethen preached upon the epistle to the Church of Ephesus. I spoke in the afternoon upon <503512> Philippians 2:12, 13. I had a great crowd of the most impolite, spiritually impolite hearers I have seen for many months: so much for the capital of Virginia.

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We reached Caroline, and the next day, Fredericksburg: here Nicholas Snethen gave a discourse upon the work of righteousness—peace; and the effect of righteousness, quietness, and assurance forever. I spoke upon “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found.” We started next day for Pohick,fi25 and the day after reached William Watters’s; here we rejoiced in God together. On Wednesday evening there was a thunderstorm, which, clearing up, brought an excessively cold wind on Thursday. MARYLAND

On Friday it snowed most of the day; nevertheless, I rode on seven miles to Henry Foxall’s,fi26 in Georgetown, where I found a shelter from the storm. I have had sore temptations, succeeded by great consolations. The want of good sleep has been a cause of suffering.

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I made a general start, and a steady ride to Baltimore. On the route I called in to see the widow Shadrach Turner, whom I found rejoicing in the Lord. I fed at Spurrier’s tavern;fi27 it is now in other hands than formerly.

Sabbath, 28. I had uncomfortable feelings, occasioned by a cold I had taken. Upon my watch-tower in Light Street, I stood and delivered a message on James 5:19, 20. I wrote, and rested until Thursday the first day of April, when our yearly conference commenced.fi28 We went on with our business smoothly and rapidly, and had preaching each noon and evening in every Methodist house for public worship in the city.fi29 Sabbath, April 4. I administered the word in Light Street from Matthew 5:12: in the new chapel at Fells Point on Isaiah 56:7. This is the neatest house, within and without, that we have in Baltimore. Alexander McCainefi30 hath been very attentive to the temporal and spiritual interests of the house and society.

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We had a day of fasting and humiliation for the conference, the continent, and the Church of God; I improved the occasion, and spoke from Acts 14:23. I was presented with a new impression of my journal;fi31 it is very incorrect: had I had an opportunity before it was put to press, I should have altered and expunged many things; the inaccuracies of grammar, and imperfections of composition incident to the hasty notices of a manuscript journal are preserved in the printed copy. On Monday evening the conference rose: all the demands of the preachers were answered; money was advanced towards the purchase of horses; to those who had distant circuits and far to go, donations were made; and nearly two hundred dollars very liberally sent to the Monmouth conference,fi32 which is to meet in July next. Within the circling lines of this conference, we report to this sitting an addition to the society of three thousand souls and upwards, besides those who may have died within the last eleven months. John Pawson’s letter,fi33 and fifty copies of a volume of sermons came safely to hand; his, and other letters, concerning the work of God, I read to my brethren. Whilst in Baltimore, I received an account of the death of my mother, which I fear is true. And here I may speak safely concerning my very dear mother: her character to me is well known. Her paternal descent was Welsh; from a family ancient and respectable, of the name of Rogers. She lived a woman of the world until the death of her first and only daughter, Sarah Asbury: how would the bereaved mother weep and tell of the beauties and excellencies of her lost and lovely child! pondering on the past in the silent suffering of hopeless grief. This afflictive providence graciously terminated in the mother’s conversion. When she saw herself a lost and wretched sinner, she sought religious people, but “in the times of this ignorance” few were “sound in the faith,” or “faithful to the grace given”: many were the days she spent chiefly in reading and prayer; at length she found justifying grace, and pardoning mercy. So dim was the light of truth around her, from the assurance she found, she was at times inclined to believe in the final perseverance of the saints. For fifty years her hands, her house, her heart, were open to receive the people of God and ministers of Christ; and thus a lamp was lighted up in a dark place called Great Barre, in Great Britain. She was an afflicted, yet most active woman, of quick bodily powers, and masculine understanding; nevertheless, “so kindly all the elements were mixed in her,” her strong mind quickly felt the subduing influences of that Christian sympathy which “weeps with those who weep,” and “rejoices with those who do rejoice.” As a woman and a wife she was chaste, modest, blameless; as a mother (above all the women in the world would I claim her for my own) ardently affectionate; as a “mother in Israel” few of her sex have done more by a holy walk to live, and by personal labour to support, the Gospel, and to wash the saints’ feet; as a friend, she was generous, true, and constant. Elizabeth Asbury died January 6th, 1802; aged eighty-seven or eighty-eight years. There is now, after fifty years, a chapel within two or three hundred yards of her dwelling,fi34 I am now often drawn out in thankfulness to God, who hath saved a mother of mine, and, I trust, a father also, who are already in glory, where I hope to meet them both, after time, and cares, and sorrows, shall have ceased with me; and where glory shall not only beam, but open on my soul forever. Amen.

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I came to Perry Hall. We cannot spend more time with the rich than with the poor; so, being warned by a very fine day, we started, stopped to dine with the Widow Stump, at Bush, and in the evening reached North East. Next day was stormy; but we were safely housed with Mr. Daniel Sheredine.

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We rode to Back Creek; and on the Sabbath day, as we were visited with a gracious rain, I improved on the subject from Isaiah 55:10, 11. At the Bohemia Manor chapel Brother Whatcoat preached in the afternoon from Revelation 21:6.

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There were two appointments; one at the new chapel, Cross Roads, and the other at the brick meeting house. Rather than disappoint any, we separated, I taking the former, and Brother Whatcoat the latter. As it was the first time of preaching in the new house, I chose Isaiah 66:1,

2. That evening I came on to Chester Town, the wind at east; cold and damp.

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We had a rainy day, but we attended the house of God, noon, and night. Our brethren in this town are about to build: by a train of strange persons, providences, and things, they have a place in the public square, where the market house stood: the chapel will be in a line with the Episcopal church; its size, forty by forty-eight.

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The morning was very damp. I was not at all prepared for speaking: my subject was Titus 2:2. After preaching we rode rapidly down to Dr. Moses D. Allen’s: we found the doctor rapidly declining.

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At Easton I spoke on 1 Peter 1:3-5: Brother Whatcoat preached at night.

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We were at Bolingbroke chapel: it was an exceedingly cold day for the season; I read a little, and added a short exhortation; after which we hasted to Wm. Brown’s to dine, and the wind having lulled, crossed Choptank, at Ennall’s Ferry. The severity of the weather caused uncomfortable feelings; nevertheless, we greatly rejoiced in the Lord, because of his glorious work, which is spreading along like a moving fire.

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At Henry Ennall’s I spoke on <19E508>Psalm 145:8-10. I have now ridden, I suppose, three thousand miles since my departure from Philadelphia on the last of July, 1801.

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We had a full house at Cambridge. Our new chapel is two stories high; well planned, and neatly finished. After exhortations and sacrament, Bishop Whatcoat preached. Meeting ended, we rode fourteen miles through the rain to Bartholomew Ennall’s.

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Rain coming on, we were detained a little; but afterward we rode within two miles of Quantico, arriving too late. We dined at Fletcher’s,fi35 and rode on to Salisbury, making thirty miles this day. Bishop Whatcoat preached in the evening.

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Was fair time; yet many attended, and we had a gracious season. My subject was Matthew 22:5.

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We had a long ride to Annamessex chapel, nearly thirty miles, this day, before we came to our lodgings at Samuel Smith’s.fi36 VIRGINIA

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We rode twenty miles to Downing meeting house, in

Accomac county: I spoke upon Psalms 66:16Psalm 66:16; it was a gracious season. We had only time, and in borrowed carriages rode afterward about twenty miles to Captain Watson’s, weary and sleepy, as we had had little rest night or day.

Eastern Shore, Friday, 23. Bishop Whatcoat preached at the meeting house in Diamond Town to a numerous audience. That evening we had to ride twenty miles to Mr. Watts’s, upon Chincoteague; but the Lord was in the family, and blessed the people. We have a most pleasing prospect in Accomac: a general revival is going through the county. MARYLAND

Next day we had a heavy ride to Snow Hill: our new meeting house not being finished,fi37 I preached in the court house to many serious people upon Philippians 1:6. After worship we rode on to Isaac Bowman’s,fi38 fifteen miles, and lodged at Dr. Wilson’s plantation, now in the possession of Mr. White.

Eastern Shore, Sunday 25. We had a great time at Bowen’s chapel—there were present about one thousand souls; to whom Brother Whatcoat preached, I read a letter and gave an exhortation. We came on nine miles to Wm. Leicester’sfi39 that evening.

DELAWARE

On Monday we had to ride to the Sound chapel, where we found a large congregation: the prospect of religion here is good. In the evening we reached Mr. Lacey’s,fi40 near the head of Indian River, making little short of thirty miles for our day’s ride.

On Tuesday, Brother Whatcoat went to Lewistown; whilst myself preached at Milford.

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I preached at Dover, on Ephesians 5:1, 2; thence I hasted to Duck Creek Cross Roads, where I spoke in the evening.

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We had a blessed rain; we rode through it to Wilmington, in Judge Bassett’s coachee: I was sick, with night-watching and fevers, and a disturbed stomach. I lodged for the night with Allan McLane; my fever rose.

PENNSYLVANIA

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On my way to Philadelphia, I called once more upon my

old friend Mary Whithy. In the city I found many things I cannot here relate; some pleasing and some painful.

Our conference opened on the first of May. We had an increase of probationers. In two sittings we did not get through the first question: Who are admitted upon trial? We appointed a committee of five to manage the temporal concerns, and recommended a day of fasting and prayer to be observed on the fourth of May, for the conference, the Church in general, and the continent at large. By a hasty calculation, I find I have ridden three thousand three hundred and three miles, from and returning to Philadelphia.

To my happy surprise, George Robertsfi41 and John M’Claskey came forward and moved that the brethren of the city who had bought the academy should have the offer of a preacher: the conference at once agreed that the superintendents of the Methodists of the United States should make them an overture upon the best terms; there was but one dissenting voice.

We had great peace throughout the sitting; although there were many things to occupy our thoughts: my mind was taken up in entering the minutes; and in making needful changes. After voting the next sitting of our conference at Duck Creek, we rose on Thursday the sixth inst.

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I preached at St. George’s upon Romans 14:19, at Ebenezer upon <503512> Philippians 2:12-16, and at Bethel, among the Africans, on Titus 2:11, 12.

NEW JERSEY

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I had a sudden thought that it would be best to cross at Gloucesterfi42; we did so, and had a sudden passage, in a noble boat, to the Jersey shore; we sailed over in eight or ten minutes.

We came on to Clonmell, dined at Robert Newell’s,fi43 and attended our appointment at three o’clock: Brother Whatcoat made an improvement upon Isaiah 25:20, 21.fi44 My mind was in an unexpected manner led to John 2:15. I wake myself: I had probably lost thirty hours in the city.

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We rode to Henry Firth’sfi45 and dined; after which we

attended our appointment at Salem.fi46 My mind here was overruled on my subject; I made a sudden choice, whilst I was singing a hymn, of 1 Corinthians 7:29-31. We had many serious people at Salem. We returned to Henry Firth’s, and lodged there.

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We had a blessed rain, but not pleasing to ride through to Humphrey’s meeting house at Pittsgrove.fi47 Bishop Whatcoat preached upon the abundant entrance; I only exhorted upon the seasons, natural and spiritual, and read Mr. Hodges’s letter. We lodged at Joseph Newkirk’s.fi48

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We came to Bethel,fi49 and I spoke on “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” The rain fell upon us as we rode to Daniel Bates’s.fi50

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We rode to Moores Town,fi51 and held a meeting at Hugh Hollinshead’s.fi52 Brother Whatcoat spoke upon “The kingdom of God is not in word but in power”; it was late, and I therefore occupied about fifteen minutes in exhorting against making light of the Gospel.

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In our route to New Millsfi53 through the mount, in the hollow, we found the road greatly improved. I have ridden about four hundred towards the four thousand miles. My mind, in general, is kept in great peace. After thirty-one years’ acquaintance, William Buddfi54 and myself still live; and, I hope, live for God, and to his glory.

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At New Mills I preached upon <503512> Philippians 2:12-16. We had an open season: the people are in living exercise, and souls are coming home to God.

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Through heavy, continued rain, we came on to Crosswicks.

We dined with Mr. Joseph Lovell; and after drying our clothes, about two o’clock went to the meeting house. Here we found a fire and a stove, and warmth and comfort: how different this from visiting an open house in the woods, with wind and rain beating upon you, and sitting in your damp dress and a damp house for three hours, after which you are to ride five or ten miles to a bad lodging, where you are to dry yourself and find comfort if you can!

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At Emley’sfi55 I spoke on Hebrews 12:1, 2; after preaching we rode to Captain Covell’s,fi56 an old English Methodist sea captain. At Milford; a cold day and few people. We visited Sylvester Hutchinson,fi57 in an afflicted and low state of body.

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We had a weary ride to New Brunswick: my subject here was Rev. 17:14. Next day we came to Benjamin Drake’s: Bishop Whatcoat preached to the preachers present—Joseph Totten, William Mills, Henry Clark, to which I add the family, and three others. NEW YORK

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We came upon Staten Island at the old Blazing Star.fi58 I called at the mansion of Justice Hezekiah Wright, where I had been entertained, and where I had preached almost thirty-one years past. I was thankful to find Mrs. Wright happy in God, although afflicted in body. Here I saw the third generation rising into accountability: we prayed, and were comforted together. We housed for the night with Joseph Totten, upon the south side.

Sabbath, 23. Nicholas Snethen, who had been on a visit home, came up with us to-day. I had an opportunity of reading his answer to Mr. O’Kelly’s Rejoinder to his, Nicholas Snethen’s, Reply.

Whilst at Milford, I read the inscription on the gravestone of Ann Hutchinson,fi59 her maiden name was Simpson; she was born upon Long Island, and married in the country of Middlesex, State of New Jersey. She was the mother of thirteen children, and the great great grandmother of upwards of three hundred children; she died, aged a hundred and one years, nine months, and seven days, in January, 1801. About eighty, she in a great degree lost her sight—about ninety, it returned; her hair changed a few years ago from white to a dark brown. I have seen her, and conversed with her: at this advanced age she did not appear to be weary of the world. My soul hath been suppressed with deep and sore temptations: it may be thus, that I should not be lifted up at the prosperity of the Church, and increase of ministers and members. I have a variety of letters, conveying the pleasing intelligence of the work of God in every State, district, and in most of the circuits in the Union. Ride on, blessed Redeemer, until all the states and nations of the earth are subdued unto thy sacred sway! At a meeting house upon Staten Island,fi60 at the old Blazing Star, my subject was Matthew 22:5. The rain probably deprived us of half of our congregation. After administering the sacrament, we rode in the rain to Nicholas Crocheron’s,fi61 at the east end: my text here was Acts 5:30-

32. Several came forward and joined the society. I have visited upon the island for thirty-one years; and I am pleased to find there is a revival of religion.

NEW JERSEY

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I came to Elizabethtown:—unwell as I had been on the

Sabbath evening, and deprived of rest, I was expected to preach at eight o’clock: my subject was Ephesians 2:10. Wonders will never cease. Nothing would serve, but I must marry Thomas Morrell to a young woman:fi62 such a solitary wedding, I suppose, has been but seldom seen— behold father Morrell, seventy-five—father Whatcoat sixty-six—Francis Asbury, fifty-seven—and the ceremony performed, solemnly, at the solemn hour of ten at night!

NEW YORK

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We came to New York, and took up our lodging at Mr.

Suckley’s.fi63

We advanced toward the completion of four thousand miles for the present year. I have had great exercises in going through rain and continual labour; but have been blessed with great peace by my good and gracious God. My first public exercise in the city was in the African church,fi64—a very neat wooden house, but by far too small: my text was Ephesians 2:11-

14. Friday, 28. I spoke in John Street, upon 1 Thessalonians 2:4-9.

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After Bishop Whatcoat had preached, I read letters respecting the great revival of religion, westward and southward; the death of Sarah Hutchinsonfi65 gave occasion to my preaching her funeral sermon at the Bowery church, in the afternoon. The deceased was the daughter of Frederick Deveau, whose house and family in New Rochelle were the first to receive and welcome the Methodist preachers; and thus became the gate by which we have had such an abundant and permanent entrance into the State of New York: after sitting under the ministry of the Gospel above thirty years, the saint, as I was informed by her sister, Hester Wilson,fi66 died very happy in God.

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We opened our yearly conference in John Street meeting house; and continued our labours in great peace and union. We have a large admission of preachers upon trial as travellers: at this conference there are twenty-two; and in six conferences, sixty-three.

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We had a day of solemn fasting and prayer for the Church, the conference, the continent, and for the world; upon the eve of which, I preached from 2 Corinthians 2:14, 15, with great plainness, and so much fire as made my earthly tabernacle very restless through the night. John M’Claskeyfi67 gave us the first sermon upon Joel 2:15-17.

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We had a love feast at eight o’clock, preaching at ten o’clock, and sacrament at twelve o’clock: some good shakings went through the house, but there was nothing very signal. The collection for the preachers gave occasion to a sermon, which I must needs preach: it was done upon 1 Corinthians 16:14. I attended, and read a letter at the Bowery church, where a collection for the same purpose was also made. At six o’clock I preached in the North River church, on Luke 11:13, and so we closed our labours in the city. But instead of a page, it would require a volume to tell the restless tossings I have had—the difficulties and anxieties I have felt about preachers and people, here and elsewhere—alternate joy and sorrow—but I have been supported—I am done: I am gone—New York, once more, farewell!

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We had a very warm, dusty ride to the widow Sherwood’s; where we held meeting at four o’clock.

As it appeared to be the wish and will of this conference that I should be at that of Monmouth,fi68 I desired Nicholas Snethen to go upon my appointments.

How sweet to me are all the moving and still life scenes which now surround me on every side! The quiet country houses; the fields and orchards, bearing the promise of the fruitful year; the flocks and herds, the hills and vales, and dewy meads; the gliding streams and murmuring brooks: and thou, too, solitude—with thy attendants, silence and mediation—how dost thou solace my pensive mind after the tempest of fear, and care, and tumult, and talk, experienced in the noisy, bustling city! “where will they send me?—to Hampshire—to Rhode Island—to Connecticut—to Canada?” One preacher wishes to go where another dreads to be sent, and smiles at the fears of his more timid brother. “But,” say the citizens, “how shall we be supplied?—such a one will be too strict, and may put us out of order—a second will not keep the congregations together; and our collections will not be made—a third will not please; because he is not a lively preacher, and we want a revival of religion.” Ah! the half is not told of the passions, parties, hopes and fears, amongst the best of men, through ignorance and mistake. This, at least, may be said of the Methodists of New York—they are righteous over-much in their kindness to their friends.

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I preached at New Rochelle meeting housefi69 on <19E508>Psalm 145:8-11. We dined at Ramsen Burtis’s.fi70

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We were at James Banks’s, Byram River. Bishop Whatcoat

preached: I only exhorted, and read a letter.

CONNECTICUT

Next day I preached at the Old Well, at Absalom Day’s near Norwalk,fi71 upon Acts 3:26. I had to walk out at eight o’clock in the night, to a crowded school house. There has been a small stir here; and now, amongst Congregationalists, Episcopalians, and Methodists, it is who shall. Brother Whatcoat was very ill with a bilious fever: I was afraid of pushing him too swiftly.

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After a few hours’ sleep in the night, we came off early to Joseph Hall’s, in Stratfield: here we dined, prayed, and parted, continuing on through Bridgeport (formerly Newfields), where we saw an elegant Episcopal meeting house, which some would call a church: in Stratford we stopped at Elnathan Wheeler’s, where our weary bodies and spirits were refreshed. Next morning we moved off in earnest, expecting to reach North Bristol, but at the ferry our courage was somewhat damped—the boat was fast aground, and the tide was low: nevertheless, the boat from the other side came to our relief, and handed us across Housatonic in six minutes. With the kind family of Mr. Jocelynfi72 we rested two hours in New Haven. I was pleased to hear that the students of Yale College, as many as ninety or one hundred, had been under gracious impressions. They would come to hear the Methodists, and like other very genteel people, mock and deride; but God struck some of the vilest of them by the ministry of Samuel Merwin: this may be denied; but it is known to God, and to their own consciences. At North Guilford we stopped at Mr. Tallman’s,fi73 fed, and continued on to Josiah Coan’s,fi74 where we housed for the night, weak and weary.

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At West Haddam I preached to a few; there had been no

notice. Bishop Whatcoat, feeble as he was, spoke in the afternoon. I read some letters, giving an account of the prosperity of the work of God, south and west. This has been a trying week to body, soul, and spirit: I have made out four hundred and twenty miles, exceedingly rocky and rude. Should I live to be as old as Mr. Wesley, and travel as long as he did, yet shall I never see a Maryland in Connecticut. In West Haddam our people have nearly finished their meeting house: it has a most excellent pulpit, and a neat sanctuary round it, simply enclosed. We lodged with John Wilcox: he is faint, yet faithful; and waiting for the consolation of Israel, in holiness and glory. My soul is like a weaned child, to do and to suffer, to make rest more desirable in pursuit, and more abundantly satisfying in the enjoyment: to say not a word about earthly things, my spirit has been greatly assaulted, and divinely supported in grace, in God, in Christ, in the hope of rest, rest, rest, eternal rest.

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We crossed to Connecticut River, and came to Middle Haddam, lodging at Elisha Day’s; but it is night in this place:—a little meeting house, a little society, and little religion.

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I preached upon Acts 8:6: “And Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.” I inquired how the apostles “preached Christ.” To sinners the atonement; to be apprehended by faith, preceded by repentance: in believers the “hope of glory.” It was observed—it appeared, according to the Divine attributes of justice, mercy, truth, and love, that there must be a general provision for all; such as are in God prove it must be so. “Preached Christ” as the anointed of God; a prophet, priest, and king, generally and personally, in his operations of grace. The people were attentive. After preaching, I ordained Jeremiah Stocking a deacon.

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We dined at Lyme, and rode on to New London. Brother

Whatcoat preached on 2 Corinthians 6:5: the house was crowded, and the young men and boys very disorderly. We lodged at Richard Douglass’s.

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We had a pleasant ride to Norwich—behold! the temple hath been burnt down, and more elegantly rebuilt since I was here. Thus have they made a benefit of a calamity. Bishop Whatcoat preached upon Christ’s love for the Church: I read a letter and prayed. On Friday we came to Nathan Herrick’s, at North Preston: I read some letters, and then preached upon Titus 2:11, 12: we had an open time. I made two simple propositions:—

I. The operations of grace upon sinners; and

II. The operations of grace on believers, by which they live in self-denial of all evil, and bear the cross, enjoy the life of God, and exercise themselves in Christian temperance, justice, and holiness. RHODE ISLAND

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To General Lippet’s, at Cranston, twenty-eight miles.

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I opened the meeting at half-past ten o’clock; then followed the ordination, then the sacrament; after which brother Whatcoat preached upon Ephesians 3:8. My subject was 2 Corinthians 3:11, 12. In my improvement I showed the character and offices of Moses compared with Christ: the glory of Moses and the superior glory of Christ: the letter and spirit of the law, the letter and spirit of the Gospel; and I dwelt largely upon the latter. Plainness of speech, simple and searching; pointed to every case and character. My work was imperfect; I had not time, and perhaps not skill, to finish and properly apply so great a subject. We had four exhortations; and concluded about four o’clock.

MASSACHUSETTS

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We dined at Mr. Turpin’sfi75 in Providence, and came on to Joseph Guild’s in Attleborough; making a journey of about twenty-six miles. Next day, after a heavy, hungry, weary, dusty ride, we reached Boston. I closed the labours of the day by a sermon from 1 Peter, and had two Baptist and three Methodist preachers to hear me. It was an open time.

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At Lynn I spoke on Hosea 10:12.

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We reached Marblehead. Brother Whatcoat preached; I

gave an exhortation: our audience, chiefly females, nearly filled the room. Mr. Bowlerfi76 is our good friend (but not a brother), in lending his own house, and assisting us largely in building ours for the worship of God.

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We rode round the tomb of that old prophet of the Lord, George Whitefield. We stopped at the sisters Eaton’s,fi77 in Salisbury, and allow ourselves to have made six hundred and twenty miles. In Newbury- port are great improvements, and beautiful houses in and around: as in Boston, everything thrives but religion.

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At Salisbury brother Whatcoat gave us a lecture on 1 John 5:4.

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We had a love feast at Jemima Eaton’s; a sermon at the

meeting house, and administered the sacrament. I spoke on Zechariah 12:10. Brother Whatcoat in the afternoon from 2 Corinthians 5:20. Joshua Taylor preached in the evening. It was hard labour, and by no means agreeable to me to preach in other people’s houses; to which I may add, that I was under bodily and spiritual infirmity. It is our duty to suffer and to serve: and it is true that we submit to the one, and will, by grace, do the other. We feel the prejudices of the people. They may think we wish to invade their rights; but they are mistaken, for I would rather preach under a tree.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

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We came away in haste to Greenland, breakfasted, resumed our journey, passing through Berwick, and brought up at Deacon Clarke’s,fi78 in Wells: and thus one day’s ride of fifty-one miles brought us across the State of New Hampshire.

MAINE

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We stopped at Falmouth in the District of Maine; and within sight of Portland. Although we rode thirty miles I was obliged to preach— my subject was 2 Timothy 4:7.

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We had a racking ride of about forty-five miles to Monmouth;fi79 our breakfast we took at Gray, and dined with Mr. Bradbury at New Gloucester.

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Our conference continued three days. We held it in the upper room of Sewell Prescott’s house,fi80 We had fifteen members, and nine probationers: the married preachers who came deficient to our conference received about one hundred and twenty dollars; the single brethren about sixty-two dollars; and the probationers a small donation of two dollars each, which came from afar. We had three sermons. The whole of my doing was to read two letters, exhort a little and examine the deacons, Samuel Hillman, John Gove, Gilman Moody, and Joseph Baker, whom brother Whatcoat ordained. The business of our conference was conducted in great peace and order. I can rejoice that by supplies from Baltimore and New York conferences, added to those of the District of Maine and of Boston, we have a goodly number of faithful zealous young men: in seven conferences we have taken upon trial sixty-seven probationers.

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We concluded with a love feast, sacrament, and the ordination of five elders, to wit: Comfort Smith, Epaphras Kibley, Daniel Webb, Asa Heath, and Reuben Hubbard: they kneeled outside at the door of the house, and received the imposition of hands from myself and the elders present: may they open the door of the Church of God in discipline, and the way to heaven, by preaching the Gospel! Five sermons were preached through the day: the women chiefly occupied the inside, whilst the men stood without; it was an open time, and some felt the word: of the multitude congregated on the occasion (allowed to be between two and three thousand), we hope many went away profited.

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We came off early and in haste; breakfasted at Mr. Herrick’sfi81 in Lewiston; crossed Androscoggin River at the Falls; dined at Mr. Ramsdale’s,fi82 in Gray, and brought up at Mr. Baker’s, in Falmouth; having made forty-five miles.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

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We passed through Scarborough, Saco, Kennebunk, Wells, Berwick, and Somersworth, which last is in New Hampshire: thence onward through Dover, Madbury, Lee, and Epping.

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We held a meeting at Captain Fogg’s, in Epping; my subject was Titus 2:2. George Picketing spoke in the evening from 1 Corinthians 15:34. After preaching we rode twelve miles to Hawke.fi83 On our route next day to Waltham we passed through Kingston, Plasto, Haverhill, Andover, Wilmington, Woburn, Lexington, and Lincoln, nearly completing another thousand miles. We shall have a great opening in New Hampshire; and a district formed there in a few years.

I crossed New Hampshire from Saybrook to Berwick, a distance of thirty miles, and recrossed from Berwick to Plaistow, a distance of forty miles. The native products of the soil are the spruce, pine, cedar, birch, oak, ash—it is a rich lumber country, well watered, with fine streams for saw mills. The face of the earth is not pleasing; but it is well improved: the prospects for Indian corn are good, the cover fields luxuriant, and the meadows beautiful: the dwellings are handsome, and the meeting houses stand within sight of each other.

MASSACHUSETTS

Haverhill bridge engaged my attention. It is thrown across the Merrimack River by three arches; a distance of probably sixteen hundred feet. I also saw the grand canal, designed, principally, to float lumber from the Merrimack to Boston. For about twenty-seven miles they have rocks, and swamps, and hills to wind and labour through; nevertheless, they can draw a raft of great length along, after passing the locks, which admit about seventy feet at a time; they link the disparted fragments together again, and move forward. This navigation will be a vast source of wealth to the country, as well as a great convenience in the passage outward and inward of domestic and foreign products of every species—and it will, doubtless, also be profitable to the company.

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I rested, fasted, and wrote a little. I have passed so rapidly along, that lately I have had time only for ordinary and common exercises. Mr. Bemis’sfi84 family is singularly blessed in four successive generations: elder Pickering’s two children, a son called Francis Asbury, and a daughter named Maria, make the fourth.

Sabbath, 11. I spent the Sabbath at Waltham. I preached on Matthew 7:14, and again on Galatians 1:3, 4. My sensations were not very pleasant, and the young people seemed very wild; there was an old drunkard too, who stood up and spoke once and again: perhaps they will behave better the next Sabbath I give them.

I feel that fasting at my time of life, if only once a month, brings on such dejection of spirits I can hardly bear up under it. I have had lately two official cordials, ironically speaking. They know how to come at me, although four or five hundred miles distant. Lord, help me to do and suffer all I ought to do and suffer for Thee, thy Church, and ministers!

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We came through Needham. George Pickering stopped to

demand the Church rates taken from the Methodists, amounting to one hundred dollars or upwards: this is to pay the Independent ministers, whose forefathers fled from Episcopal tyranny: yet, be it known unto all men, their children’s children are risen up and glory in supporting the Gospel according to law. Happy the descendants who condemn not themselves by doing that which their ancestors disallowed! We lodged at Mr. Stearnesfi85 at Milford.

CONNECTICUT

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We came upon the turnpike road through to Thompson. I

was told that Mr. Dow,fi86 an Independent minister, had relinquished his legal claim of salary, trusting to the willing minds of the public, who gave him more by voluntary subscription.

I had to preach at Nichol’s meeting house,fi87 but being taken with a bilious headache, I said but little: my subject was Hebrews 4:14-16.

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I rode to Captain Lyons,fi88 in Canterbury: after dinner I continued on over the rocks and hills to Windham. We had a meeting at Robinson’s: I was able to preach upon Isaiah 55:6, 7. Here God had wrought, and the people appeared to be very lively.

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We scaled the hills and rocks, passing through Lebanon, and stopped at Joseph Bass’s. Here will be the beginning of a society. We came to Hebron. Brother Borroughsfi89 attended me. The travelling preachers cannot leave their appointments. At four o’clock in the evening our new house in Hebron was consecrated: the subject on this occasion was chosen from Exodus 20:24. It was an open time.

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We rode to the city of Hartford, stopping at a brother’s house upon Glastonburyfi90 hills, and at Mr. Spencer’s,fi91 and at Squire Pitkin’s:fi92 we talked and prayed (it was all that we could do), and pushed on to Winsted. We lodged with Doctor Lynde.

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We came up the turnpike road to New Hartfordfi93 upon the banks of Farmington River.

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We held quarterly meeting, Litchfield circuit. The Sabbath day congregation was small, owing to the rain after the great heat. I spoke from 2 Thessalonians 3:1. We had feeling times and hearts, and a living love feast. In heat and in haste, we rode on to Colonel Burrell’s, in Canaan, and there lodged.

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We came on to brother Church’s, near the Falls of

Housatonic River. Our route led us through Salisbury and Sharon, across the line into the State of New York.

At Sharon and at Lewis’s we called in. From the eastern to the western line of Connecticut, that is, from Thompson to Sharon, I calculate the distance to be one hundred and thirty miles; it cannot exceed one hundred and forty miles.

NEW YORK

At Rhinebeck I made up four thousand miles, and have one hundred in advance towards the fifth thousand I shall have made since the last of July, 1801. Of the little time we have, may be judged by the length of our rides, day after day; yet, at this speed must I go to meet the conferences, and visit the principal societies. My soul is at times greatly drawn out in prayer.

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We rested at Traveller’s Rest, upon the solitary banks of Hudson, with my dear friends Freeborn Garrettson, and his prudent, pious wife. We have heat, heat, great heat.

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I preached upon 2 Corinthians 4:7. It was an

ordination sermon at the setting apart of Billy Hibbardfi94 to the office of an elder. It is exceeding warm; and the zenith of harvest: yet, we had a congregation.

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I had to tear myself away from these precious souls: I do believe God dwells in this house (Traveller’s Rest). We came on to Fishkill,fi95 and fed. A poor intoxicated creature had sense enough left to insult us, and curse the Methodists. After feeding at brother Warren’s, we made another push over the hills to Peekskill, and came to Governor Van Cortlandt’s. I have received great kindness from this family. We have made forty-eight miles this day.

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I came gently along down, having an admirable view of the North River—the indents and projections of its lofty and beautiful banks. I called on brother Anderson, and was exceedingly well treated. For twenty- two miles we had excessive heat. I came to Captain Requa’sfi96 by surprise, but I was not therefore made the less welcome. Religion revives in New Rochelle circuit: they have general prayer meetings, and good seasons of grace; that is the way.

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I came into New York about two o’clock, and escaped

heavy rain. My soul hath been sweetly stayed upon God whilst riding alone. I have received a confirmation of the death of my mother, who died

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Of the particulars of her last moments I have received no certain account; but I learn that a certain Mr. Emery has taken all her property. I am comforted with good news from several quarters: persecution has ceased in Charleston, and the Africans are growing in grace: our society in Philadelphia becomes more united; and there are good appearances in Old Brunswick circuit, Virginia.

Sabbath, 25. In New York, I preached at the old church, John Street, on Revelation 3:17-20; at three o’clock, at the Bowery church on Isaiah 55:6, 7; at the African church at six o’clock in the evening on 1 Thessalonians 1:5. It rained at times through the day, which prevented more from attending: it was a day of life to me.

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I had to wait in a boat, tormented by heat and flies; still worse for my poor brute, who made an attempt to leap out into the bay; had she been loose, and myself at a distance, poor Jane would probably have been overboard. It came into my mind that we had preached, and should yet preach to little purpose in Newark: this I mentioned to Mr. Richard Leaycraft, with whom I dined in New York, in company with Parson Uzal Ogden: he had thought of building a house; and a small one Parson Ogden thought he might well do himself; and then we might have a church. NEW JERSEY

I stopped at Mr. Crowell’s,fi97 in Elizabethtown, and then came on to Mr. Flatt’s, Rahway.fi98

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I stopped in Brunswick at Benjamin Drake’s, and then pushed on, sultry as it was, and made it thirty-eight miles to Joseph Hutchinson’s: with his new house, new wife, will he not by and by want a new lease of his life?

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I stopped at Crosswick’s. I felt proper sick; but I was soon relieved by vinegar and water. My friend Hulet Hancock housed me for the night. I found my dear sister Hancock feeble and unwell, but she soon grew better, and at family prayer she praised the Lord with a loud voice.

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I stopped at Burlington; had a word or two with my friends, and we commended each other to God in prayer.

PENNSYLVANIA

I came on in haste and sickening heat to Mr. Manly’s traveller’s rest,fi99 arriving about twelve o’clock. The fever has reappeared in Philadelphia. I hear great times have been known in Doverfi100—above one hundred and fifty souls have felt the operations of Divine grace, at the annual meeting upon the day of Pentecost; and great times also at the Milfordfi101 quarterly meeting.

I thought to have remained with my friend Manly, and take a short breathing spell; other friends wished to have me in the city, and came to bring me in, but I besought them to let me stay until Sabbath morning. On Sunday morning, according to appointment, I preached for the first time, in the college church (or Academy); my subject was Exodus 20:24: after sermon we had sacrament: we had seriousness and attention. In the afternoon I preached at St. George’s; a gust came up and few attended. In the evening I rode out to Mr. Manly’s.fi102

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I took a serious leave, with fears for the health of the city, and a mind impressed with concern for the Church. We were overtaken by rain before we reached Chester. After dinner with Mrs. Withy, I desired Mr. Manly, who had very kindly come with me thus far, to return. I proceeded on to Wilmington (Delaware) through the rain, and lodged with Allan M’Lane.

MARYLAND

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I resumed my journey south, came as far as Isaac Hersey’s, dined with him, went on to brother John George’s, halted awhile, moved forward again, and brought up for the night with brother Howell, in Charlestown.

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I crossed the Susquehannah, dined with Mr. Smith,fi103 and reached Perry Hall in the evening. Here my creature consolation was in part gone; Mr. and Mrs. Gough were absent at Bath. Nevertheless, Mrs. James Carroll was here, and not less attentive than her mother. Last year my soul travailed for her health, and soul’s salvation; she is brought to the experimental knowledge of God, and I rejoice over her. I have one day I can call my own. I write, I read, I think, and refit for the mountains. My mind is in great peace, and has so been kept in all my labours; and my trials, which come from almost every point of the compass, shall be as various winds to waft me to the haven of rest.

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I came to Baltimore through excessive warmth, and lodged with Emanuel Kent.fi104 The wife of our brother Samuel Coatefi105 had a daughter born to her, whom I baptized, naming her Sophia. Sabbath, 8. I preached in Light Street chapel on Revelation 2:1-5. As the weather was changeable, I had another appointment in the house; my subject was <504114> Philippians 2:14, 15: “Do all things without murmurings or disputings; that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God without rebuke.” First, it was observed how Christians are brought into the relation of “sons of God.” Second, The duties and privileges of that relation. Third, The purity and sincerity the subjects of this relation are called to experience. Fourth, That “murmurings” either towards God, or good or bad men, ought to be avoided; and perverse “disputings” cautiously guarded against; and in all duties, sufferings, and discipline, true Christian meekness and forbearance should be manifested.

After a thunder gust, the evening cleared away, and became serene. I preached at the Howard’s Hill market house at five o’clock, to multitudes of people, from Isaiah 55:6, 7. And thus ended the duties of the day.

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I rode to Robert Carnan’s. Still intense heat. Next day I breakfasted at Charles Carnan’s, in company with Nelson Reed and wife, Joshua Wells and James M’Cannon; the evening found me at Henry Willis’s, Pipe Creek.

On Wednesday I made an improvement on Deuteronomy 10:12. We only had what people could receive notice in the morning. One woman professed to find pardon and peace, and came forward to baptism, presenting her child also.

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I visited Alexander Warfield’s family; and next day came on to James Higgins’s, and preached there from 1 Timothy 2:1-4. On Saturday morning I rode over to see Robert Owings’s family, and was comforted in finding one of his children, Miranda Evans, professing to have found redemption; may this be a solid work, and an earnest for the whole family. In the evening I went up to Stephen Shelmerdine’s. My mind hath been blessed with great consolation. I rejoiced to find the work of God spreading and growing in Frederick circuit, under the ministry of Curtis Williams and Fielding Parker.fi106

Sabbath, 15. At Frederick I once more spoke; my subject was 1 Corinthians 1:23, 24. Here then, at last, after more than thirty years’ labour, we have a house of worship,fi107 and thirty souls, or upwards, in fellowship. In speaking this morning, I had some assistance, and I laboured. Some thoughts passed in my mind of going to the court house steps at five o’clock; but I changed my mind: as there were three preachers in town, to wit, our brothers Curtis Williams, James L. Higgins, and Edward Matthews,fi108 I assigned them the duty, in the hope that their superior zeal and faith may be the means of converting some souls to God at the close of the Sabbath.

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We held evening meeting at Samuel Philips’s: I spoke from Philippians 4:6. Sister Philips is gone; she was a daughter of affliction for many years, and died in peace about seven weeks ago: I thought when I saw her last I should see her no more in time. Nicholas Snethen preached her funeral sermon: the text she herself had chosen.

WEST VIRGINIA

On Tuesday we came through heat, and over the hills, to Sheppard’s town, Virginia. I found Thomas Boydstone, and Benjamin Boydstone and his wife, on the road to glory. After thirty years’ occasional preaching in this place, we have a small society; and by the purchase of an old academy, a church—with two chimneys in it.

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I preached on Ephesians 2:10. Daniel Hitt and Edward Matthews held meetings yesterday evening and this evening. I have formed a plan to go next fall by the way of Chilicothe to Limestone; and so meet the Western yearly conference, should it be held in Kentucky.

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At Charlestown I preached from 2 Corinthians 6:1; some souls felt the energy of the word. We dined at brother Englishe’s, and rode on to John Davenport’s to lodge.

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We called at John Millburn’s. Next day, at Millburn’s meeting house, I spoke upon Hebrews 10:35, 36. We lodged at William Tyler’s. VIRGINIA

On Sunday, in the meeting house at Winchester, at eleven o’clock, I preached from Titus 2:13, 14. We had the sacrament. Many felt, and gave glory to God. In the afternoon, under the shady trees, westward of the town, not a few attended—rulers and people; I read two letters, and preached from Psalms 56:1Psalm 56:16.fi109 Mr. O’Kelly having been taken ill in town, I sent two of our brethren, Reed and Walls, to see him, by whom I signified to him, that if he wished to see me, I would wait on him; he desired a visit, which I made him on Monday, August 23. We met in peace, asked of each other’s welfare, talked of persons and things indifferently, prayed; and parted in peace. Not a word was said of the troubles of former times:—perhaps this is the last interview we shall have upon earth. At Elijah Phelp’sfi110 we rested on Monday, and part of Tuesday. I have heard of the flight of thousands from the city of Philadelphia; and that all the churches, save the Episcopalian, the Quaker, and the Methodist, are shut up. George Roberts still continues in the city. O my God, keep him and his family alive in the day of pestilence!

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At Stephensburg at four o’clock, we held a meeting; my text was 1 John 3:1-3.

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Was a most remarkable day of heat: I rested to refit. Sleep and appetite failed me. Edward Matthews was intended for my companion to the Holston district: but two of the preachers had been sick, and the other was removed; and Frederick and Berkley circuits had been neglected at a time of the greatest prospect of good. We had a comfortable ride to Woodstock, twenty miles: there was a gentle rain, and the weather was pleasant. My mind is freely stayed upon God—my guide in life and death. On Friday we rode thirty-three miles to brother J. Huyster’s: some rain fell on us, but after we were housed, there came on an awful storm of wind, thunder, lightning, and rain.

Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, 28, 29, 30. At Rocktown.fi111 On Saturday I spoke in our house on 1 Peter 3:18. On Sunday, through the progress of the love feast, there was great shaking, and shouting, and weeping and praying: it was thought best not to stop these exercises by the more regular labour of preaching, as most of the persons present were engaged either as subjects or instruments. We accepted the offer of the Presbyterian house, a good shade not being near, and the ground damp, in which I spoke on Zephaniah 3:16, 17: there was great attention, and some tenderness.

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The brethren having a wish to continue the meeting another day, I preached on Genesis 32:26, 27. By way of introduction, I made some observations on the peculiar and extraordinary features in the life and character of the patriarch—the blessings of a temporal nature so abundantly bestowed; and the spiritual blessings, rich, Divine, and various, so freely given by the God-man Christ Jesus, with whom he wrestled and prevailed. Jacob is asked his name—he told it: when he was justified his name and his nature were changed; his privileges were increased, and his power enlarged with God and man: he had power with man to stand against their temptations and to do them good—power with God to ask blessings for others, and to receive answers to prayer. It was thought, that in this three-days’ meeting, forty or fifty souls were converted or reclaimed, and quickened.

In the afternoon I rode to brother Young’s, in Augusta; I was very unwell with a fever and headache, and had a restless night.

At brother Young’s, on Monday, I spoke on Acts 13:26: meeting began at three o’clock, and continued until seven o’clock: there was great praying and shouting. Sister Jones rose up and gave an exhortation: she spoke as if she were going home to glory—I felt it: she reminded me of sister Jones and sister Taylor, those female flames, and almost martyrs for Jesus: one of them, I trust, has long been in glory! the other, I believe, is only waiting for her call to eternal rest. I found it was time for me to be off—preaching for four or five days together was enough: I felt weak in my breast.

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We lodged at David M’Nare’s; and next day

came over the hills, crossing the branches of the Shenandoah, to Brownsburg: night coming upon us, we turned aside to lodge at Andrew Weir’s, and were kindly and comfortably entertained.

On Friday we passed through Lexington, and being so near, I was willing to gratify my curiosity by a view of the Natural Bridge. I walked down the hill to look at the arch thrown, in a regular ellipsis, about one hundred and sixty feet above a stream, which, in the rainy season, foams and roars beneath: the breadth of the bridge may be sixty feet, and the distance one hundred and sixty feet across. On one side of the road, at the south-east end, large trees are growing. Should I live two years longer I may preach under the arch. We dined at Mr. Huston’s, and were honoured as men of the ministry.

Hearing that the circuit preacher was at Morris’s, we turned aside and came up—purgatory. On Saturday we crossed James River at Pattonsburg, dined at Mr. Lockland’s upon Back Creek, and came on to Fincastle. Sabbath day, 5. I preached upon Matthew 25:34-37. My meaning upon the text was, First, To show the blessedness of the people of God, as subjects of the kingdom of grace and glory. Secondly, The evidences of their being blessed to others, in feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, in a hospitable reception of the stranger, visiting prisoners and the sick, doing good to their souls as well as their bodies: and when the subjects of this love, and mercy, and benevolence, are pious, persecuted saints, the children of God would not hesitate to take them into their houses, or visit them in their distress, although this labour of love might subject themselves to persecution and death. It was observed, that it was not national fellow- feeling, the hospitality of politeness, nor family attachments; no, nor yet the more pure, though too partial affection which one religious society may feel for another, which may be the motive—it is because they are the suffering members of their common Lord—”Ye have done it unto me.” The meeting continued four hours, and there was a moving among the people. I lodged at Edward Mitchell’s. I drew a plan of a house forty feet long, thirty feet wide, and two stories high, of brick—to be built in Fincastle; two-thirds of the money must be collected before we begin. This, like many more of my good designs, may come to naught.

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We rode to Van Lear’s, upon Roanoke, thirty-six miles, and next day crossed New Riverfi112 at Pepper’s ferry; weary, yet willing, and my soul in close communion with God. We have good news in this district—the work of God revives in all the circuits. The season is dry; the streams are consequently—but there is great plenty: O! good Providence—O! ungrateful people.

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I preached at Page’s meeting housefi113 upon Ephesians 2:10. After dinner at Edward Morgan’s, I went on to brother Moorehead’s: this family fed the Lord’s prophets in Rockingham, and the door is still open in the west.

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We came along to Crockett’sfi114 and fed, and then hasted through the townfi115 and housed for the night at Cattoru’s: the father was a native of Germany—a gracious soul; and his children will come into the fold of Christ.

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We came to Charles Hardy’s,fi116 upon Holston. I found the people praising God. A blessed revival had taken place. Fourteen or fifteen times have I toiled over the mighty mountains, and nearly twenty years have we laboured upon Holston; and lo! the rage of wild and Christian savages is tamed, and God hath glorified himself.

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I rode to the Salt Worksfi117—perhaps for the last time. Alas! there is little salt here, and when sister Russell is gone, will there be any left? But, a few miles from the works, up the middle ridge, they have built a meeting house;fi118 and there is a revival of religion. I make my calculation upon four thousand nine hundred miles, from July 30, 1801, to September 12, 1802. If a living man and a Christian might dare to complain——.

Sabbath day, 12. Sweet peace fills my mind; and glorious prospects of Zion’s prosperity cheer my heart: we have not, shall not, labour in vain. Not unto us, not unto us, but to Jehovah be all the glory on earth, and in heaven forever!

TENNESSEE

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I rode alone to Edward Coxe’s, near Shote’s ford, upon Holston.

On Tuesday and Wednesday we rested; and on Thursday we rode to Cashe’s, near Jonesboro, Tennessee.

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I attended a camp meeting which continued to be held four days: there may have been fifteen hundred souls present. I read an account of the work at the Dover yearly meeting; and of the work of God generally: my text I found in Haggai 2:4, 5. We had a shaking, and some souls felt convicting and converting grace. The heat, the restless nights, the water, or, it may be, all these combined made me sick indeed. I crossed Nollichucky at the fording place of Colonel George Gallespie, who very kindly rode over with me, and held my hand. Main Holston was before me: I came safe over, and stopped with Felix Earnest,fi119 making ninety miles this week. I take Fothergill’s medicine. I can feel quite resigned to end my days here: thereby, I shall avoid great labours and trials for the coming year.

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The house at Ebenezer would not hold the people: so, from my stand in the woods, I spoke from Genesis 32:26-28. I was very unwell, but I held out longer than I expected; I also felt that the word was given me and applied to the hearts of the people.

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I was weak and very unwell. We rode down to Greenville, when I took a little breakfast. It was extraordinary, that a man who was quite a stranger to me appeared very uneasy when he found that we had paid the landlady, it being his wish to bear the expense, and have our money returned to us—his name is Cox. The day was warm. We came on to Little Nollichucky, and lodged at Edward Warren’s.fi120 I had little rest by night or day.

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At Bethel I spoke on Ephesians 4:1-3. We had a close, sultry day, a small house, and a crowded congregation; an open time, and the triumph of truth.

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We rode to M’Cleary’s, upon French Broad, below the mouth of Nollichucky—between forty and fifty miles.

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We dined at Francis Ramsay’s, and lodged at Knoxville with my old friend Mr. Greer.

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I rode to the Grassy Valley, and next day preached at the quarterly meeting at Muddy Creek.fi121 Roan county: my subject was Colossians 1:9, 10. On the Sabbath day we had sacrament and love feast in the woods. At eleven o’clock I spoke upon John 3:16. I was unwell; and the congregation were, to appearance, cold and not in the spirit of prayer as I could have wished. I dined with Mr. Ramsay,fi122 a Presbyterian minister, at his own house on Friday; and he with me to-day at my lodgings: we had quite a Christian interview.

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We made towards West Point,fi123 and lodged at Mr. Clark’s for the night: in the morning we started in good spirits. We were somewhat shaken in going the old path down Spencer’s hill: I walked, fearing every moment a fall for myself or my horse: it was a very noxious evening to me. It was late when we arrived at Obed River, and I imprudently lay too far from our encampment fire, and took a cold, which fixed upon my throat. Late the following evening we came into Shaw’s, where we lay upon the floor.fi124 I was sick indeed.

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We called at Prim’s, and continued on to Doctor Tooley’s. My throat worse and worse—I was unable to swallow. Next day we stopped awhile at Blackman’s, and proceeded on to James Douglas’s.fi125 I had an awful night.

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We rode forward to Station Camp, and found the

conference seated.fi126 By this time my stomach and speech were pretty well gone. I applied to Mr. William Hodge, and to Mr. William M’Gee,fi127 Presbyterian ministers, to supply my lack of public service, which they did with great fervency and fidelity: with great pleasure, and in great pain, I heard them both. I was able to ordain by employing brother M’Kendree to examine those who were presented, and to station the preachers—I hope for the glory of God, the benefit of the people, and the advantage of the preachers. The conference adjourned on Tuesday.

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I rested. After eight days’ suffering of severely acute pain, the inflammation descended to my feet.

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I rested at Shaw’s, and bled for the third time, and applied bandages and sugar of lead to my feet.

At Doctor Tooley’s I was attacked in the knee with a most torturing pain, attended with a swelling; the use of both my feet I had almost entirely lost before. On Saturday, we rode fifteen miles to Prim’s. I stopped to rest at Mr. Walton’s, at the forks of Cumberland River: here I was treated with great attention and kindness. At Prim’s brother M’Kendree preached; I also spoke—my subject was Hebrews 3:7, 8: some wept, and all were attentive. John Watson followed with a warm exhortation.

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We took our departure at five o’clock, and rode to Shaw’s, where we got corn in the ear at a dollar per bushel. We continued on until half-past six o’clock, then stopped, struck a fire, and encamped under a heavy mountain dew, which, when the wind shook the trees, fell like rain upon us. Brother M’Kendree made me a tent of his own and John Watson’s blankets, and happily saved me from taking cold whilst I slept about two hours under my grand marquee. Brother M’Kendree threw his cloak over the limb of a tree; and he and his companion took shelter underneath, and slept also. I will not be rash, I dare not be rash in my protestations against any country; but I think I will never more brave the wilderness without a tent.

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after riding fifty miles, a part of ninety-three miles in two days, we came about eight o’clock to West Point. An accident, extraordinary in the manner, and desperate in the effect, happened to me. At a rocky run, in attempting to dismount, my horse gave a sudden turn, and swung me against the rocks in the stream—the rude shock to my tender feet made me roar bitterly. My horse was low before, tender-footed, and tired—the hills were steep and rugged, and I was sore by riding—these circumstances combined caused so much pain, that when we came on Wednesday to the Grassy Valley, I cast anchor, with a determination to give up Georgia, and go by a straight line to Camden conference, to be held January 1, 1803.

I sent word to James Douthet to explain to the elders of Georgia and South Carolina my situation. I also despatched John Watson to meet brother Snethen, and give him my plan to fulfil the appointments in Georgia—but behold, brother Snethen had had a fall from his horse, and was left lame upon the road! I have been sick for twenty-three days; ah! the tale of woe I might relate. My dear M’Kendree had to lift me up and down from my horse, like a helpless child. For my sickness and sufferings I conceive I am indebted to sleeping uncovered in the wilderness. I passed so quickly along that many people scarcely more than beheld me with their eyes; yet these were witness to my groans; and sometimes dumb, I opened not my mouth. I could not have slept but for the aid of laudanum; meantime, my spirits and patience were wonderfully preserved in general, although I was sometimes hardly restrained from crying, “Lord, let me die!” for death hath no terrors, and I could not but reflect upon my escape from the toil and sufferings of another year. I had no sad forebodings of the ills which might befall the Church—it is the Lord’s, not mine; nor was I anxious about father or mother—they, I trust are in the paradise of God; nor did I say to myself, what will become of wife and children—these I have not. But what am I to learn from these ills and aches?—”these are counsellors that feelingly persuade me what I am.” I am no longer young—I cannot go out as at other times: I must take the advice of friends who say, spare thyself. I have ridden about five thousand five hundred miles; and in the midst of all I am comforted with the prospects of the western conference—we have added three thousand members this year; have formed Cumberland into a district, and have sent a missionary to the Natchez.

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For three days past I have been at John Winton’s. By the aid of a chair on which to kneel, I preached at the meeting: my subject was Joshua 24:15.

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I rode through Knoxville, and came to Francis Ramsey’s, and by losing ourselves, we increased the distance to thirty-two miles. Next day we gained Justus Huffacre’s.fi128 I was happy to hear that my lame brother Snethen had gone limping on to attend my appointments in Georgia.

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We have been at our friend Huffacre’s since Tuesday last.

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At Rehoboth upon French Broad, William M’Kendree stood

up to speak upon “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation.” My text was 2 Timothy 3:10-12. I ordained Justus Huffacre and James Sullivan deacons. Rain having fallen abundantly, the people had their difficulties in getting home from the meeting.

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The snow being in the mountains, and the wind at west, we had a cold ride to Little Pigeon, Sevier county. At Mitchell Porter’s,fi129 I spoke to a full house, on 1 Peter 5:10. William M’Kendree followed upon “Godliness is profitable,” &c.

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We rode through Newport the capital of Cocke county, forded French Broad at Shine’s ferry, and came, cold, and without food for man or beast, to John O’Haver’s; but O, the kindness of our openhearted, open- handed friends!

NORTH CAROLINA

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We laboured over the Ridge and the Paint mountain.fi130 I held on awhile, but grew afraid and dismounted, and with the help of a pine sapling, worked my way down the steepest and roughest part. I could bless God for life and limbs. Eighteen miles this day contented us; and we stopped at William Neilson’s,fi131 Warm Springs. About thirty travellers having dropped in, I expounded the Scriptures to them, as found in the third chapter of Romans, as equally applicable to nominal Christians, Indians, Jews, and Gentiles.

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We came off about the rising of the sun—cold enough. There were six or seven heights to pass over, at the rate of five, two, or one mile an hour—as this ascent or descent would permit: four hours brought us at the end of twelve miles to dinner, at Barnett’s station;fi132 whence we pushed on to Thomas Foster’s,fi133 and after making twenty miles more, came in about the going down of the sun. On Friday and Saturday we visited from house to house.

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We had preaching at Killian’s. William M’Kendree went

forward, upon “As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God”: my subject was Hebrews 3:12, 13. On Monday I parted from dear William M’Kendree.fi134 I made for Mr. Fletcher’s,fi135 upon Mud Creek: he received me with great attention, and the kind offer of everything in the house necessary for the comfort of man and beast. We could not be prevailed on to tarry for the night, so we set off after dinner, and he accompanied us several miles. We housed for the night at the widow Johnson’s. I was happy to find that in the space of two years, God had manifested his goodness and his power in the hearts of many upon the solitary banks and isolated glades of French Broad: some subjects of grace there were before, amongst Methodists, Presbyterians, and Baptists. On Tuesday I dined at Benjamin Davidson’s,fi136 a house I had lodged and preached at two years ago. We laboured along eighteen mountain miles; eight ascent, on the west side, and as many on the east side of the mountain.

SOUTH CAROLINA

The descent of Saluda exceeds all I know, from the Province of Maine to Kentucky and Cumberland: I had dreaded it, fearing I should not be able to walk or ride such steeps; nevertheless, with time, patience, labour, two sticks, and above all, a good Providence, I came in about five o’clock to ancient father John Douthet’s, Greenville county, South Carolina.fi137 Here I found myself at home, amongst kind and attentive friends. On the Sabbath day I preached at my lodgings, upon Joshua 24:15. Surely the people about here are not the worst in the settlement; and they will mend, and attend the ministration of the word better in future. I have heard of successful meetings which have been held by encampments upon the Catawba, at Morgantown, Swannino, Pendleton, Greenville—in North and South Carolina: ministers of the different denominations had attended: more circumstantial accounts I have not yet been able to obtain. Mr. Newton, a Presbyterian minister, in Buncombe county,fi138 appears to be greatly engaged in the spirit of the work. Since my being in this house, for five or six days past, I have been afflicted with painful flatulenceys. Sit still I could not; to read and write I was unable; but I could wind, reel, and pluck out cotton, and thus I employed my fingers. I have now nearly completed the six thousand miles since the last of July of the last year— great and fiery trials; great succeeding consolations. I would here record, that James Lowry,fi139 an agreeable, pious youth, rode with me for the last seventy miles. I feel truly grateful to him and to his family: may the same measure of kindness be always meted to him and his, and to all such affectionate young men, and feeling, attentive people!

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After resting a day, I lectured in the family, upon Luke 11:13, and on Wednesday left this affectionate household, directing my course to Solomon James’s, in the neighbourhood of George’s Creek, Pendleton county.fi140 I preached the funeral sermon of Polly James, the daughter of my host. Here I met with Major James Tarrant, a local preacher, riding the circuit. We went on to Samuel Burdine’sfi141 and lodged. I had vainly questioned in my mind the probable cause of the name of Ninety-Six—it was this, it seems: During an Indian war, in which there was an expedition against the Keewee towns, it was found by measurement that it was ninety-six miles from that spot to Twelve Mile Creek.fi142

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I rested and wrote.

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I preached at Samuel Burdine’s, on Hebrews 6:12, and pretty fully explained the doctrine of Christian baptism and Christian perfection.

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I gave a sermon at John Wilson’s,fi143 in which I treated largely on the right of persons who were awakened to receive baptism; and also upon the claim of infants to this holy rite of the Church.

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At Salemfi144 upon the Saluda, I preached upon Matthew 28:19, 20. In the first general head of my discourse it was considered who were to be taught—all, of all nations. What these were to be taught—to experience, to do, and to suffer. In the second, Who were to be baptized— men, women, children, and infants. The form of the rite—in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: the reasons why, it might be presumed, this form of words was given—because in this solemn exposition of the eternal Trinity in eternal unity, is shown the relations which the Godhead in the three persons bears to our creation, redemption, and spiritual baptism, of which the rite is only the outward and visible sign. The claim of children, it was stated, arose out of the general love and benevolence of God, and the general and universal influences of the Spirit. Baptism, it was observed, was taken from the apostles, and practised in all the primitive, and in all the first reformed Churches throughout the world. Under the third head I tried to explain the nature and the importance of the precious promise, “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world.” I went home with James Tarrant, a local preacher; my friend has, for two quarters, filled a travelling preacher’s place, and a very acceptable servant he has proved to be.

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I rode to Thomas Terry’s, upon the forks of Reedy River.

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My mind is occupied in reading, writing, and exercises in prayer, in which I have intimate communication with God. I now feel as if it were my duty to preach more particularly on the subjects of sanctification and baptism.

I have nearly finished my six thousand miles—to God be all the glory! But ah! what small fruit of my labour, since August, 1801. How little do I speak of God and to precious souls! God, be merciful to me a sinner!

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At Thomas Terry’s I gave an exhortation in the evening on 1 Corinthians 15:58. Next day I went to Nathan Bramlett’s.fi145 I called to see Mrs. Price, eldest daughter of my once dear old friend, Alexander Leith, formerly of Baltimore. I feel much for those dear children, for whom I have been praying, some twenty, and others thirty years: I think the time long until they are converted. I was made as welcome by the children, I doubt not, as the parents would have made me had they been living and present. In the evening I returned to Mr. M’Kie’s.

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At Bramblet’s chapel I spoke on Acts 2:37-39.

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We had a cold hungry ride of thirty miles to Henry Culvor Davis’s, a native of Maryland, and now of Newbury District, South Carolina. The first society we formed at this place declined, and so many removed, few were left; this year they repaired the meeting house; and the Lord poured out his Spirit, and nearly one hundred have been added. I found the labours of Lewis Myers and Buddy W. Wheeler had been greatly blest in Broad River circuit, South Carolina. On Tuesday, we had a gracious rain, and cool weather followed. On Wednesday, I preached at Odell’s meeting housefi146 on 2 Corinthians 13:9. I rode home with Benjamin Herndon. On Thursday, at Bethel, I heard Lewis Myers preach on John 17:15.

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I rested, and read, and wrote. I find that excessive

riding, in some degree, incapacitates me for the duty of preaching. At Edward Finch’s, George Douthet and myself were engaged to put Mount Bethel School in operation: I advised to finish the house for teaching below, and lodging above.

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At Bethel I spoke on Hebrews 6:1, 2. On Monday I rested, and on Tuesday passed the day with George Clark, and preached there on 2 Timothy 2:10-12.

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We had the first snow. I was very unwell with a total privation of appetite, accompanied with a high fever.

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I crossed Tyger River, and came to Major Bird

Beauford’s,fi147 I improved upon 2 Timothy 4:7, 8. I rode down to Nathan Glenn’s, at Broad River: we had a severe season of cold weather, which occasioned very uncomfortable feelings.

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I was called upon by recommendation to ordain Stephen Shell, John Wallis, and David Owen, to the office of deacons. There were seven of us present who minister in holy things. My subject was 2 Timothy 4:1, 2: “I charge thee therefore, before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine.” It was observed of St. Paul, that before finishing his course, he had adopted Timothy, ordained him, and left this charge, a dying charge given by a dying, martyred apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ; and left on record for all who ordain, and all who shall be ordained to the ministry to the end of the world! a charge given as in the immediate presence of God, whose attributes and perfections are great and glorious; “and the Lord Jesus Christ,” in his Divine character; and in his important offices and relations to mankind; ministers being his servants, the people his flock, and the word his own eternal word of truth and salvation; who is now, and shall be hereafter, the Judge of all our actions. “Preach the word”—the word of repentance, of faith, of justification, of regeneration, and of sanctification. “Reprove”—there are special uses to be made of the word to convince sinners of all degrees, classes, characters, and modes of faith. “Rebuke”—rebuke backsliders; rebuke errors in practice, and negligence in duty. “Exhort”—exhort souls rebuked and convinced, to seek the restoring, preserving grace of God. It was shown how ministers should time their labours, regulating them as favourable or unfavourable seasons would seem to require; and the necessity of preserving the faith and meekness which might enable them to labour “with all long-suffering and doctrine.”

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We crossed Broad River at James Glenn’s flat; we called upon the aged people, prayed, and came to Benjamin Rowells, Chester District.

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I preached at Robert Walker’s,fi148 upon <503512> Philippians 2:12,

13. I inverted the order of the text,—

I. It is God who worketh in the hearts of sinners, seekers, and believers, “to will and to do of his own good pleasure,” which is their personal, present, future, and eternal salvation. See Ezekiel 33:2; Luke 12:32; Hebrews 10:38.

II. That all who desire this salvation should be active in penitence, faith, and regeneration; using every means of grace, and performing every duty connected with holiness here, and preparatory to heaven hereafter.

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We rode until evening, and lodged at Mr. Washington’s, near the Wateree Creek,fi149 which gives the name to the river.

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Crossed at Chestnut’s ferry, and came into Camden. It is but a trifle to ride in this country thirty miles without food for man or beast. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, we had excessively cold weather, and sleet and snow. We held our meeting in Isaac Smith’s house,fi150 and I preached twice.

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I rode down to James Rembert’s upon the head of Black River: I came here that I might enjoy a little solitude, and find time to answer my northern letters. Until Friday evening I was pretty well occupied in writing.fi151

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Christmas day. I preached at Rembert’s chapel, and on

Sunday James Patterson spoke on “Enoch walked with God.” There is a great change in this settlement; many attend with seriousness and tears. Whenever our preachers gain the confidence of the lowland planters (if indeed that time shall ever be), so that the masters will give us all the liberty we ought to have, there will be thousands of the poor slaves converted to God. The patient must be personally visited by the physician before advice and medicine will be proper; and so it is, and must ever be, with the sin-sick soul, and the spiritual physician. Letters from the north announce very pleasing intelligence of a great work of God in Maryland, and in parts of Virginia.

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Yesterday and to-day I have been busy writing letters. My general experience is close communion with God, holy fellowship with the Father and his Son Jesus Christ, a will resigned, frequent addresses to a throne of grace, a constant, serious care for the prosperity of Zion, forethought in the arrangements and appointments of the preachers, a soul drawn out in ardent prayer for the universal Church and the complete triumph of Christ over the whole earth. Amen, Amen, so be it! I have finished many letters and adjusted some plans. For my amusement and edification, I was curious to read the first volume of my journals. I compared my former with my latter self. It was little I could do thirty years ago; and I do less now.

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Rode to Camden.fi152 On Friday I read in public some letters narrative of the work of God.

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