CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME OF THE SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND GIVEN IN 1891 BY HENRY WILLIAMS SAGE BX8495.A79 A3 “Tani THE CHARACTER AND CAREER OF FRANCIS ASBURY, BISHOP OF THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. Allustrnted by Humerous Selections from his Journal, fA ARRANGED IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER. BY REV. EDWIN L. JANES. COMPILER OF “WESLEY HIS OWN HISTORIAN.” New YorK: CARLTON & LANAHAN. SAN FRANCISCO: E. THOMAS. CINCINNATI: HITCHCOCK & WALDEN. 1872. “Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1872, by CARLTON & LANAHAN, in the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. PREFACE. THE historic feature of Asbury’s Journal gives to it a value that cannot be overestimated both in regard to the personal character of this wonderful man, and the marvelous growth of Methodism under his labors and supervision. In perusing this work the reader will accom- pany Mr. Asbury from place to place, from State to State, from Conference to Conference—preaching, praying, exhorting, visiting the societies and classes, comforting the sick, burying the dead, holding Con- ferences, ordaining ministers, founding schools, raising funds, and inspiring the preachers in their self-sacri- ficing work by word and example. In accomplishing his difficult and diversified work this great evangelist will be seen constantly traveling, crossing rivers, fording streams, climbing mountains, sleeping on the ground or cabin floor, eating by the wayside, or fasting for want of food. It will be seen that although performing Herculean labors, Asbury had to contend with imperfect health, and had frequent attacks of sickness—often resorting to severe remedies that he might the sooner resume his work. 4 Preface. Asbury never allowed himself to be idle. If con- fined within doors he was always-busy, writing up his Journal or correspondence, reading theology, teach- ing the children, preaching to the families, or pleading with God for success in his divine work. The selections in this volume will show that As- bury’s solicitude for the salvation of men was so intense, and his desire for the spread and triumph of Methodism so absorbing, that no obstacle could ar- rest his progress, no suffering could quench his fer- vor, no danger intimidate him, nor ease nor friendship detain him for an hour; but with the spirit of his divine Master, and the zeal.of an Apostle, he swept through the continent as if possessing the wings of an angel, bearing him with tireless energy and marvelous speed on his course. Extracts have been made illustrating the primitive simplicity, deep humility, and unfaltering fidelity of this man of God. Asbury does not conceal his hostility to American slavery, intemperance, and other public sins and follies of his times, but utters strong and sarcastic words against. them. While in his heart he gave the most cordial wel- come to professors of every name in whom he could detect true piety, he was severe on the formalism and worldliness of Christians, and contributed large- ly to guard his beloved Methodism from such a spirit. The reader of this volume will not fail, we think, to reach the conclusion that Francis Asbury was an Preface. 5 earnest Christian, a successful evangelist, a wise coun- selor and administrator, and a model Bishop. In following Mr. Asbury over the continent it has been impracticable to notice every place favored with his presence and labors, but we have indicated every State, showing the frequency with which he visited each State in accomplishing his sublime work. In his annual or semi-annual journeys he visited Massachusetts twenty-three times after 1791, the date of his first visit, and during the forty-five years of his ministry in America he visited the State of New York fifty-six times, New Jersey sixty-two, Pennsylvania seventy-eight, Delaware thirty-three, Maryland eighty, North Carolina sixty-three, South Carolina forty-six, Virginia eighty-four, Tennessee and Georgia twenty times each, and other States or Territories with corresponding frequency. In his unparalleled itinerant career he preached about sixteen thousand five hundred sermons, or at least one a day, and traveled about two hundred and seventy thousand miles, or six thousand a year, pre- siding in no less than two hundred and twenty-four Annual Conferences, and ordaining more than four thousand preachers. In constructing this work we have made selections that recorded some sentiment or criticism, some inci- dent painful or pleasing, some scene of suffering or exposure, some signal preservation from danger, some temptation or triumph in Christian experience, some name or place illustrious in Methodism, or some vic- tory in the battle for truth fought by our great stand- 6 Preface. ard-bearer and his co-laborers in founding Method- ism in the New World. And as one or more of these extracts have been taken from nearly every page of the Journal, and in chronological order, this volume may be said to be an abridgment of the Journal. As there are thousands of aged Christians remain- ing in the Militant Church who feel that the name and labors of Asbury are invested with a peculiar interest, and as the present generation may find much in the volume to remind them of the spiritu- ality and simplicity of early Methodism, and of the labor and sacrifice it cost to establish it, we trust it will be read with grateful interest and profit. There may be found in these pages a few extracts not containing any incident or point of special inter- est. Such are introduced to preserve a record of the Bishop’s visits to the several States or Territories, and the order in which he made them. The name of the State visited is usually in the heading of the extract. Whensoever omitted, the location is still to be understood to be in the State last indicated. E. L. J. CONTENTS < . Page pe s Motive for Keeping a decane ae i ca aie ae 23 Asbury Offers to go to America, 23 Buried with Funds ails for America............ Asbury’s Reflections on Ship- DOMED, once iedenasincwid were Asbury, How Employed....... Asbury’s Trials on the coun: Lands in Philadelphia. . an Preaches in Philadel- Wielts Burlington and Staten Island ¢ Reaches New York.......... 28 Is Fixed to the Methodist SPDs tpacovoes ayeheberdeaeesls assnsp doe 28 Asbury’s Trip to Westchester.. 29 Asbury at New Rochelle ...... 30 Sick—Kindly Treated....... 31 In New York—Self-Consecra- PION eee Seniesa ang eee ae 32 Visits from House to House. 32 On Staten Island In Philadelphia.... In Wilmington.............. Returns to Philadelphia..... 34 Not to be Guided by Half- Hearted Methodists....... 35 Again in Burlington......... 35 Execution at Chester.......... 35 Asbury Visits Prisoners at Burlington: sex asc wens 36 AC DON tons sniccsssrutese. stirs acetate 36 Warns the People at an Exe- OE OM de inch eats vs tobe 37 Begging Money—-Church Debt 37 till as 2» Dumb Man”’..... 37 Journeys to New York...... 38 A Mixed Company............ 39 Asbury Resolves to be a Dis- ciplinarian................ 40 Asbury’s Plan of a Sermon on the Judgment,............ 40 Asbury Receives a Letter from Mire Wesley, «cues gowa onus 4 In Trenton oad Baisigeon. - 41 dy Philately itances osacenes.s 4 Asbury Visits Piao ones Hections wsvsc «eaes.s cee tae 41 Asbury’s Description of Fred- ONIGAs ayes 2 Wve tlie alte Bas et 42 The ‘Forest Home’ for the Methodist,............... 42 Asbury in Contact with a Church Minister.......... 43 Asbury’s Outline of a Sermon at Quarterly Meeting...... 44 Asbury in Baltimore.......... 45 The Doctrine of Perfect Love— Tis Tendency. a. ose mane ne 45 Asbury preaches at a Tavern .. 45 An _ Old-fashioned Quarterly MG6tiN gs tine shlsie nine comes vt Asbury at Baltimore In plage) paid In New Y Asbury’s Description of New MOE UE osu oat wee ede wane Asbury in New Jersey......... A Letter from Mr. Wesley. .. Has a Christian a Bad Heart?.. Asbury in Burlington Iw Sew Yorks scis064 ns On Staten Island... ..<. co.s<. 50 Destruction of Mr. Whitefield’s Orphan House............ 51 A General Conference......... The People of Newcastle. . Great Hope for Baltimore...... An Imputation Hurled Back... A. Painial Prospect. i. .eencmow ¢ Asbury Raised Up from the Borders of Death 5. Preaches after a Month’s In- termission Quarter] Ponternce tne jrent fi for the W 55 Asbury’s Solicitude os Balti- more A Chempien in Sin Wennget: by the Spirit.............. Using the Ordinenses Asbury Hopeful of Baltimore.. The Revelation of St. John.. 49 49 58 . 59 Confirmation of the Work of God 60 8 Contents. Page Work of God in Virginia...... 60 An Assault from Satan.. - 61 Asbury at Neweastle .......... 61 Conference at Philadelphia.... 61 Asbury Again in New York.... 62 A Blessed State of Heart ...... 63 A Temptation of Satan........ 63 Heavy Work for a Sick Man... 64 A Page of Personal History... 64 Descendants of the French Prot- CSLADES: cipis, dnscs eesicpe eos SSE 66 Asbury’s Soul Longing for FICAVON cacameu na taneweie 66 A Great Folly....... » GE Berridge and Fletcher. 67 Waiting to Hear what the Blun- derer bad to Say.......... 67 Page An Apology for Mr. Wesley... 81 Asbury Sate in Philadelphia— A Journey of Three Thou- sand Miles.............+++ 81 ene of Christ ........... 81 Asbury Prays for God’s Help in the War pimazele hascal aiabsie SeaF 82 Again in New Jersey........ 82 oe to Baltimore..... 83 An Impenetrable Congregation 83 Asbury Fined for Preaching the Gospel Soaring too High—a Casualty Decides to Visit the Warm 8 nes Efahiva woahsta duane e doved Sie The se en of the Lord upon Him 85 84 84 Alarm of Fire—Reflections..... 65 | Decided Results from his Labors Too Much for Both the People at the Springs............. 85 and Preacher..... fa eveletoveoxs 68 | An Unusual Programme for an Delightful Intercourse with Enya js.c3, sacs gest Senses 86 ODS. dona spessioses dats iste aon 69| Asbury’s Limited Accommoda- Asbury Meets with a Fellow- TOUS srs ean ieee eu eae ae 86 Passenger......... 0.02.05 69) Opposition from the Parson.. 86 Asbury in Philadelphia........ 40 | A Characteristic Description... 87 A Small Congregation......... 70| A Just Diserimination......... 87 Asbury at a Quaker Meeting... 70| Asbury’s Salary—Six Pounds An Afiliction—Satan Busy..... 71. Per Quarter ée.cs views soos 87 Asbury IJ, but Employed in Asbury always Prepared for the Reading..............000. 72 Worst hear Statieasesceis wears dicts ode 88 Pantings of Heart to Labor for Asbury’s Private Devotions.... 88 GO aso duscanheeneti capt or snera 5s 72) A Dangerous Practice......... 88 New House and Old Friends in Asbury’s Heavy Temptations.. 89 Baltimore. ..............-- 72|A Troublesome Little Irish- Asbury Preaches with Great MON i ss ches netesetea cet ai 89 PACOS cuca sid @ eagaie: waves aye 73 | A Deistical Audience at Annap- Statistics of Circuits and Preach- OliSeccovescece a vracgtnns ie Reenseers 89 OU orice dpe itcese mee ONS 73| Asbury Suffering from Natural Baltimore Ninety-six Years ago 74 Timidity....... Satan e scat y 90 Asbury on his way to Philadel- Asbury’s Private Prayer—Seven PHA esses ieee caw s as 74 Times a Day -. 90 In Norfolk.........-.....65. 74| A Higher Rule............ -. 91 Ballast Necessary—. of Ap- Asbury’s Temptation—Prayer. 91 plause..........-.-e00e .-- | An Attempt to Shoot Asbury.. 91 The Power of Christian Sim- Satan’s Attacks Repulsed...... 92 Plicity:. wasccr sie eemeees cs 76 | Conference at Deer Creek ..... 92 Love of Souls Stronger than ‘“ What Havel Done?”’....... 94 Love of Country.......... 6) Mr. Rankin’s Last Sermon in Marines in Norfolk—Reflection 77 ATNCTIOR ssa naan oxjae saves ees 94 A Just Observation ........... 77| Asbury on Predestination..... 94 Be ROWS IOCE orncvea was Chand ues? 78) Visits a Prisoner under Sen- Asbury Entering on a New tence of Death ............ 95 Wear sisc ester danssrietinien 2% 78| Panting after Holiness....... 96 Burnet’s History of His Own “ Poor Rich Sinners”’......... 96 Times.e:sscied vege va ae weceees 78 | A Peaceful and Passive Spirit.. 96 “Ended where we Began”’.... 79) An Awful Storm—Reflections.. 97 Baltimore Alarmed—Reflection 79 Heaven and Earth Contrasted.. 30 Asbury will Live and Die a Methodist................. 97 Contents. ‘ Page aCommonigne Without—Peace Ah Cac uafora eho ende Ns 98 eé Cai an 2 Putavlite Wheels I SAG ota hceniteaeticleatsh at 98 Divine Contentment.......... 98 Asbury on the Eastern Shore. 99 A Happy Christmas Season... 99 Asbury Reading J osephus—A Reflection... ..........0065 100 Asbury’s Dark Prospects— Strong Confidence........ 100 Estimate of Wesley’s Works 101 Asbury under Weariness of Mind—Cause ............ 01 How Employed at T.White’s. 102 Changes his Place of Retire- . POOL sh weine y powtewes v ake 102 Cause of Concealment Stated. 104 ay ieee to his First etape M Mind “ Twisted and POTtU TO? ooo esece ecsuensie sone. 104 “ The Mighty Debt of Praise” 105 Two of tne Preachers Appre- .. hended Asbury Preaches in the N eigh- borhood of his Retreat. . Delaware to Become the Gar- den of the Lord.......... An Improvised Cireuit Asbury No Dreamer......... Asbury’s Firm Trust amid the Gloom and Darkness..... 106 108 “Sweet Gales of God’s Love’’. 108 Asbury’s Weighty Words on Church Discipline........ 109 Asbw ee in his Limited A Stupefying and Dangerous BentiMent ss 6 a eases & 11 Asbury Must Work for the Sake of Example......... Hervey and Fletcher ......... Asbury’s Field of Labor Ex- POT B es seisthsasess aigeainrensioress The Two Extremes.. Difficulties o: 5 Asbury Preaching for fouls, not for Silver............ 117 ‘ A Lame Separation”’....... The Doctor’s Means very Suc- a sens bie whe Pla a eadin raying, Preachin and Ban tutleag Combin ed 11s yey a Bible Student...... An Old-fashioned Quarterly Meebo sccitscscc ds ciaytte cits 119 «People Will and Will Not’’. 120 Asbury an Early Riser....... Prefers the Episcopal Mode of Ordination............ 121 pa Hartley Determined to “The Devil will Let us Read if we Will not Pray” ee Not to be Converted by Thun- der and Lightning........ 1 A Curious Motive for Pro- claiming a Fast........... Sama oP aS and Spreads 198 Supplying wOe 118 Wor An dee Man Deaf to Sie ure and Reason, ....+ “oa 12S A Funeral Sermon........... Quarterly pens. in Edward White's Barn cos css cua Friday Asbury’ s Fast-day.. se ie s Apportionment ‘of Asbury petits Death to a God- forsaken People.......... 126 Brother Hartley Married...... 126 Asbury’s Estimate of Fletcher 127 Cromwell a Prodigy.......... 127 Satan is a Liar, C Bat is True 127 @) The Nicolitep..sici44 seer eses 128 Lawyer Basset Freeborn Garrettson in Jail... Warburton against Wesley and Whitefield’................ 180 Garrettson Released 13 One State too Small a Field for Almost a Prophecy ABDUDV cei cowanveates mais Oey 30 Asbury’s Sensitive Conscience 114 | Asbury Weather. OME sd ac 131 Strong pee. dob BH 115 | “ Report, say They, and We Trusting in Past Experience.. 115 will Reportit’”’.......... 181 Asbury’s Wandering Thoughts Asbury Prays for Good Weath- IPLAYER isi /ssis... Wasenn ¥8 LCE OP ndye stein .cedeuarSaset Neuere whos 182 Conference for the Northern $e Sonate People Fishing”’.... 132 BiAONR gs oc or eye meena 6| Asbury Sets Off for Baltimore. 133 Asbury Secks to Prevent a The Act against Non-Jurors.. 133 Separation in the South.. A Happy Thought........... 183 “Why should we Lose one The Virginia Conferenee dee. WOT? cae actucks a ettein ara een 117 onciliation.........,...68 135 10 Contents. age Page Asbury Wanted in Every Part A a ae at Quarterly Meet- of the Work ............. BUG PINAR hors dsaca sienna, assisisianeceret ets 166 “* Always on the Wing”’.... 187 Kebor in Baltimore ......... 160 Great Commotion............ 188 | Party pirit Among the People 160 Slavery—A Petition Answered a Hebocys s Rule in Praying tor John Dickins................ 139 the Church ............+. 161 Kingswood School in America. 189 Asbury Fording Creeks and Sleeping on the Floor.... 140 A Question Answered........ 141 Over Rocks, Hills, Creeks, and Pathléss Woods.......... 142 Chatham Cownty ys. ces s.0a« 142 Too Lazy to Ride a Circuit... 148 Isaac ee Brought to + SR ayatee: ion Seager ste De Os 3 eS Crompallt is the Man” ..... 144 A Running Life.............. A Retrospect... ........... 00 ee A Sensible View... : Intermittent Fever.. Asbury Writes to Mr. TwentyPreachersatConference 156 Harmony of the Preachers.... 156 Harry, the Black Man.. -- 156 Wicked Whisky Drinkers... 156 Wonderful Caves............. 157 Asbury pene among the OOK: 466 A Searching Sermon at St. GOP RONS 0 coh c seta a tote 446 No Improvement Discernible. 467 The Bishops neither Popes nor Politicians............... 467 Boston Conference — Ordina- tion of Joshua Soule...... 468 What Industry and Economy Will Doe wanciue ote eet 3 468 Quarterly Meeting—Elder Os- tranderenic sc soca, exer ad 469 Quite in the Old Style........ 469 Seventy Preachers in Confer- ON CG sesicacesars gisiacpuretenoils ae 469 Statistics—Asbury’s Ambition 470 Asbury Preaches at Trenton.. 470 “Heat, Dust, and Turnpike Grate sonia: dc eresdisen secure’ 470 Asbury at Carlisle............ 471 Religious Condition of Penn- BYVANi Aes. oss asaya ee Camp-Meeting on the Monon- . gals eer eee Pittsburg —‘“‘It is Time we had a House of our Own”? 473 An Aged Presbyterian........ re) Asbury in Brook and Ohio CONNUCS Ht. stnon dd sate eating 473 Contents. 19 , . Page a Page Asbury Preaches in a ‘ Pres- Thirty-four Days’ Ilness..... 492 byterian Tent”.......... 474 | Asbury More Tender of Others Introduction of Slaves Prohib- than of Himself. OG ewnats, Lacan aces omen Vee 474 | Death of Wilson Lee American Enterprise in Ohio.. 475} An Empty Purse...... Conference and Conversions.. 475 | ‘‘ Wandering Without Missionaries Appointed to OPEN COC ova leyatuieess yet labiele Natchez ana Vlingie .-.. 476 | Friend Tomkins Expelled for A Description of Western Em- Selling a Slave........... 495 TETACLON a anes ancters cunteas a 476 | Four Hundred Conversions in Asbury’s Return from the Four Days..............+ 495 Western World........ .. 476 | Asbury Happy in the Solitary A House of Worship Built by W000 Seo ciiee cuscerer valent agave s One: Mans .c0 ces smsnities 477 | Nearly Three Thousand Miles Preachers’ House in Charleston since General Conference. 497 Paradise n.d: ssssijaes oon 477 | Asbury Crossing Tar River... 497 News of the Progress of the O’Kelly on Government, Mon- Work of God............ 478 archy, and Episcopacy ... 497 Difference Between a Pope Conference Statistics... ....... 498 and a Methodist Bishop .. 478 | ‘‘ I Hear, I See, I Feel”’...... 499 Coke at the Augusta Conference 479 | City Congregations ‘‘ Preached Asbury’s Reasons for a Life of ta Death eas vss x sagas 499 Celibacy..........00eeees 479 Work Oppresses Him....... 480 Lot in Sodom..............-. 481 A Female Charitable Society.. 481 A New Chapel—“ 1 Named it POR ELE Ra vicas sigue 482 A Retrospect..........-...54. 482 GeneralConferenceinBaltimore 483 Conterence at Soudersburg ... 484 From Philadelphia to NewYork 484 Thos. Lyell Proposes to Leave the Methodists........... 484 A, False BAGO ds 5 sate sea cain 485 Asbury Watchful of the Preachersives..sres sect iss 486 Through Rhode Island....... Once More in the ‘ Pleasant Town of Lynn”’......... 486 Asbury Sweeping Through the TO WD Siiesecers ssctevere snersie ays cs 4 “Robed in His Gown’”’—The {TOURS ic conc e awien san’ 487 Conference at Buxton........ AST Asbury Passes through Towns and States Comet-like.... 488 Suffers from Hunger—Sym- pathy for the Preachers .. 488 One Thousand and Fifty Miles 489 “Farewell to Tommy Lyell’. 489 Elder M’Clasky “Forty-five Miles To-day’... 490 Street Preaching and Female Prayer-Meetings.......... 491 Melancholy End of J. Cromwell 491 A High Compliment to Local Preachers... wis, c bisa sine eee 492 490° The Bishops Preaching before Judges and Counselors... 500 Difficult to Walk Officially Btraight cc. ves goes cates 500 Mr. Leecratt Entertains Asbury 500 Mr. Wesley’s Journal 5 Conference ut Ashgrove...... A Ride in Vermont..... ..... A Sad Disproportion .. Some of the First Fruit: The Times Changed in Boston 503 Dr. Coke’s Marriage.......... Asbury on the Wing Through Connecticut.............. 504 chs uehbesTeseran spcaatciavetare ta 504 Through New Jersey....... 505 ‘Then Away to the West” 505 A Cordial Reception and Chris- tian Partin 06 FiveThousandatCamp-Meeting 506 ‘““O Thou Pattern of Celibacy, Art Thou Caught!”..... 507 A Four Hours’ Meeting at Philip AIC Be a's gas hess uy to 507 -| Conference Sabbath — Three Thousand Hearers........ 508 Asbury Crossing the Mountains 509 In Fellowship with a Presby- terian Minister........... 509 Preaches at Salem on Hosea BTU ayaa astaeinys gets Seys-elavahe 510 A Marvelous Contrast........ 510 The Highest Steeple.......... 511 Northern Letters—Dr. Chand- ler’s Wonderful Report... 511 20 + Page Asbury’s Observations on Ha- weis’s Church History.... 512 Asbury in the Fortieth Year of is: Ministry ic secre serecaisyans 513 Twenty-six Sermons during Conkerenttisa. ca ocucavsn< 513 A Somber View of Matrimony, 5138 Rapid Traveling.............. 514 Frightened Horses—God Pre- OU VES c5 ga oe aru Wray eva ae 514 A Healthful Increase in Vir- ginia Conference......... 514 Preliminary Measures fora Del- egated General Conference Asbury at Accomac.......... From Milford to Wilmington. From Baltimore to Philadel- phia—Conference Asbury atSharptown andSalem Great Camp-meeting An Important Paper.... “Sister Phateer cess cnn ee A New Chapel in West Boston 519 Camp-meeting in Maine...... 519 New England Conference .... 520 “Why Did I Not Visit this Country Sooner?”....... 520 * Not Made for Such Scenes’ 521 Boneh Of Palys wien oss aaa sy 521 Death of Bishop Whatcoat ... 521 Asbury Preaches at North East 522 A Thankful Sickness......... 522 Diversity, Charity, Unity..... 523 Asbury’s Generous Nature.... 523 Over the Mountains ......... 528 Wesley’s Sermons Wake the Powers of Asbury’s Soul. Asbury Bound for Charleston. How Employed in Charleston “T Shall Take Care of These Youngsters”...........+. Asbury’s Independence ‘““A Rumpus — Lawyers and 524 524 525 Doctors in Arms”’........ 526 Conference at Sparta ......... 527 “Redeeming the Time”’...... 527 “Cold, Sick, and Faint”..... 527 Asbury at Newbern Conference “A Cut of Dry Bread on the Cold Ground”’..........- Baltimore Conference ....... *. Asbury Sick, but Traveling... 529 Milford the Place of Bishop Whatcoat’s Last Sermon.. 529 Philadelphia Conference ..... 530 Great Prosperity at Bethel.... 530 Grandfather Budd............ 530 Conference at Coeyman’sPatent 531 Contents. Page Asbury Crossing Green Mount- ain—Imminent Danger... 531 Difficulty of Finding Enter- tainment........6. sees Fifty-nine Ordinations. ...... 532 Asbury One Hundred Miles up the Mohawk 5382 First Visit Through Genesee and Tioga Counties...... 533 An Uproar gucone ths People. 533 Entertained Like Kings .... . 584 Reading in 1807—Formality... 584 “ What Hath God Wrought in America?” ......c. scenes 535 Asbury on Virginia Soil...... 535 “Every Family Shall Know Me by Prayer’’.......... ChillicotheConferenceStatistics 536 Asbury Young Again......... 536 Camp-meeting at Mt. Gerizim. 537 Asbury Weary and Faint, but Disposed toSing andShout 537 Through Five States....... 5387 “A Sick, Weak Old Man”... 538 Conference at Charleston..... 538 The Balance in Asbury’s Favor 538 A Methodist Patriarch........ 539 Conference at Alexandria...,. 539 Five Thousand Miles a Year.. 539 Will Bonaparte Conquer the World?” Asbury did not Please Every d 540 y Swiftly Through New Jersey. 540 Conference in Amenia........ 540 At New London . 541 Methodism Advancin, BAL From New York Southward.. 541 Death of Mr.Gough—Character 542 General Conference 543 Henry Boehm..... ». 548 Asbury Disabled............. 543 A Decree, but Not of the Medes and Persians............. 544 Disadvantages of a Local Epis- COO Y ce sicais women dears ee 544 Conference at Green Ilills— Slavery 44 Jesse Richardson, the Veteran 545 Henry Boehm and aShout.... 543 Asbury, Boehm, M’Kendree.. 546 “Great News—Baltimore Tak- OT BFE? ae's axes arsiors avamverecore 46, Secu eee a erom 546 Wesley Mr. Asbury’s Model.. 547 Two Bishops in Partnership.. 547 Three Hundred Preachers at a Camp-meeting Contents, P: A Sabbath at Camden........ 548 But Three Married Men in the Virginia Conference...... 548 Conversion of J. Ryall Bradley 549 Asbury Glad to See the Preach- ersy. DUG as iccoe nelneeas 549 Graves of Departed Friends... 549 Names Sacred to Methodism... 550 Philadelphia Conference — Eighty-four Appointments 550 New Jersey Methodism in 1809 551 One Hundred and Twenty Preachers in Conference. . The Quakers are Offended.... Want of Enterprise in New TGONG ON, staivea's: scwaiei sions aie: cten Asbury’s Visit to Fort Wolcott ‘Not Half Enough to Do”’... Asbury in Boston Again...... Conference at New Gloucester. “OQ! the Rocks, Roots, Pole- 551 552 552 553 553 553 554 Bee and Mosquitoes!” 554 Asbury Obliged to Sit while Preaching ws. wien BED. A. New Route ivcss 2 ves n ces, BOD ‘CA Despised People Will Pos- sess the Land”’.......... 556 eae ge prese sy but Rejoices A Gods. sins winieaeis aes 556 A Bishop Unable to Stand or ANGEL icc rers cranes se 42 55? Church Building in Virginia... 557 Col.Zane an Extraordinary Man 557 Multiplicity of Camp-meetings 557 WesternConference—Statistics 558 Asbury Five Hundred Miles from Cincinnati.......... 559 The Baptists Indebted to Meth- odist Camp-meetings..... 559 Asbury Cares for the Various Interests of Methodism... 559 Brother Boehm—Conference at ca Unite 21 . Page Conference and Camp-meeting NGO Ch cseveats sisrenee Hens 6: aypnscote 565 Asbury Appeals to Southern Methodism inAid of Boston 565 JesseLee’sHistory—Correction 566 “Who Shall Reform the Re- formers tcc pois aes wise 2 67 Conference Invalids Curable.. 567 A Heavy Week’s Work....... 568 Asbury’s Interview with Revo- lutionary Officers ........ Faithful Ministers—Good News —Statistios............06+ 569 A Sight of the Slaves Prevents omplaining...........++ 569 Old Friends are*Departing.... 570 Conference Held in a Senator’s OSES Geach ty 0, Sa ued nae 570 Conference at Raleigh........ 571 “O the Clover of Baltimore OIE oot nade eae are yen Eight Young Preachers Re- cently Married Ws cane yyahehtose 572 Drs. Rush and Physic Visit IASDUTY 24 sgescotess cheyenk teens 572 Limited Success in New Jersey 572 Conference in New York..... 573 Opposite Views of Adam - Clarke and Asbury....... 578 How the Preachers Accepted their Appointments ...... Asbury’s Horse Sinks in Mud AN. Water ince spouses vase 574 Asbury inCanada—Old Friends 575 “Well, Ihave Been in Canada” ! A Discovery by Wise Men.... A Bishop’s Salar Asbury Sick, but Away to th Camp-meeting Conference at Cincinnati...... “ Perfect through Suiferings’’ “ Great Snethen is Chaplain to 574 Peter pias A wie eediatalerana 3a 560 Congress” ........c se eens 578 Statistics of West Maryland... 561 | Conference at Camden........ 578 Asbury at BaltimoreConference 561 | ‘This Life is Not Eternal”... 579 Statistios—The Peninsula in Asbury Charged with Ordain- TOD os sao Cas vues caw eee 62 ing a Slave............00+ 579 Asbury Must Preach......... 562 | Forty Miles to Breakfast...... 580 Philadelphia Conference at A Happy, Loving Conference. 580 ARCOM. ..ccccecncsenceees 563 | Death of Martin Boehm ...... 581 Some Displeased with Their Philadelphia Conference...... 581 Stations ......ee cece eee 563 | General Conference of 1812... 581 s Twelve per Cent. Interest on Honorable Mention of Sister et otes nen ernseie wate Shes 564 BONG: ogeets nicicie ettvers groteng: eetne 582 Old John-street Must Come Conference at Albany ........ 582 DOOM ies ais isteidvedaco.nee ates atin 64 | Through Connecticut......... 583 Through Dover to Egremont.. 564 | Conference at Lynn—Procla- Missionaries Sent fo Wuenean. 565 mation of War.........-. 583 22 Page Conference at Lyons......... 583 Sweet Revenge.............. 58a Whisky the Prime Curse of the United States 58: Asbury Preaches to the ‘Union Volunteers ” TenThousand atCamp-meeting Six Thousand Miles in Eight Mouths Asbury in the Representative Chamber A‘ Sickly, Serious Congrega- gation” at Louisville Asbury in North Carolina.... “Brandy and the Bible—One 584 585 585 586 586 586 was Enough”............ 586 Conference at Charleston— “What is Coming?”’..... 587 “Camp-meetings the Great Instrument’’............. 587 Fever and Pain .............. 588 Asbury Preaching and Ordain- ing on his Knees......... 588 Conference at Newbern—As- bury on Crutches English Conf. Invites Asbury to Visit his Native Land.. 589 Otterbein—Ealtimore Confer- ence 589 Asbury at Governor Bassett’s. 589 Small Increase in the Phila- delphia Conference A Questicn Respecting Bur- lington and Trenton 590 A Tavern Turned intoaChurech 590 NewYorkConference at Amenia 591 ee M’Kendree and Joshua arsden Through Connecticut Asbury at Pittsfield Asbury’s Will Asbury at Bristol and Provi- 588 eva aeataceewees ignane taste 592 Venerable Names in Methodism 593 Conference at Westmoreland. . 593 Asbury with an Infidel Family 593 The Tomb of Henry Willis... 594 Father Everhard Conference at Brownsville.... Blistering the Head to Draw Methodismoutof theHeart 595 Tennessee Conference 595 Asbury Preaches with Great MOWER Ssstvs csathss ease sc orasedt ots 595 In Savannah............... 595 A Present of an Old Gig..... 596 Bishop Coke Sails for the East AMG isdse sige u srsaesssnin shan 596 Contents. Page Conference in Norfolk— ‘Mighty in Talk ”....... 597 A Retrospect......... 002.0005 597 4) Funeral Discourse on the Death of the Great Otterbein.... 597 Joseph Pilmoor.............. 598 Philadelphia Conference in the Spirit and Peace of God.. 598 Great Kindness and Attentions in New Jersey........... 599 J. W. Bond—A Rich Present.. 599 A Series of Mishaps.......... 599 A High State of Christian Ex- perience ....... ee ene 600 Cincinnati Conference—Bish- op M’Kendree Injured.... 661 Poor Bishops—‘ Sick, Lame, and In Poverty”? sn ws sa sien 601 Asbury’s Traveling Compan- ion Unequaled........... 601 Old Friends—Reminiscences 602 LittleJersey WagonhisPulpit 602 Asbury at Conference Work, but Feeblo.......... eee ee 602 Expectorates Blood ........ 603 A Cold Time at Newbern .... 603 A Temporary Paradise ....... 603 Conference at Lynchburg— Treaty of Peace.......... 604 “ A Few Scattering Shot”’.... 604 Asbury atBaltimoreConference 604 Curiosity to See Asbury ...... 605 Asbury’s Trials and Consola- DROIIS a veer ay hw oe e's 605 A New Chapel in Philadelphia 605 Mr. M’Dowell..............0 608 Asbury Preaches Dr. Coke’s Funeral Sermon......... 606 George Pickering Presides at the Unity Conference .... 607 Asbury’s Last Visit to New Mor Gity iscsi wy. alle wie 607 Journal a History. of Early Methodism .............. 607 Camp-Meeting Sermon....... 608 Politics and Piety do not Mingle Wells atte cee ek, macs 608 Ohio Conference at Lebanon.. 609 Asbury in Earnest Talk with Bishop M’Kendree....... 609 M’Kendree and “ The Boys on Che: Wang? cos tate ceeie o 609 Conference in Tennessee—As- bury Failingscce ees scans 2 609 Asbury Made Perfect by Labor and Suffering............. 610 Last Entry in Asbury’s Journal 610 Last Scenes of Asbury’s Life. 610 CHARACTER AND CAREER or REV. FRANCIS ASBURY. Asbury's Motive for Keeping a Diary. In the month of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-one, I embarked in England for America, at which time the memoirs I have written of my life commenced. As I considered my station on the American continent, in the order of Divine Providence, as a situation in which I should frequently be exposed to censure and jealousy, I thought it highly expedient, for my own satisfaction and the confirmation of my friends, to keep an impartial diary of my intentions, resolu- tions, and actions as a Christian and a minister, that I might have, through this medium, a constant and reasonable answer for mine accusers. Offers to go tu America, On the 7th of August, 1771, the Conference began at Bristol, in England. Before this, I had felt for half a year strong intimations in my mind that I should visit America, which I laid before the Lord, being unwilling to do my own will, or to run before I was sent. During this time my trials were very great, 24 Character and Career of [1771. which the Lord, I believe, permitted to prove and try me in order to prepare me for future usefulness. At the Conference it was proposed that some preachers should go over to the American Continent. I spoke my mind and made an offer of myself. It was ac- cepted by Mr. Wesley and others who judged I had a call. From Bristol I went home to acquaint my parents with my great undertaking, which I opened in as gentle a rhanner as possible. Though it was grievous to flesh and blood, they consented to let me go. My mother is one of the tenderest parents in the world, but I believe she was blessed in the pres- ent instance with divine assistance to part with me. I visited most of my friends in Staffordshire, War- wickshire, and Gloucestershire, and felt much life and power among them. Several of our meetings were, indeed, held in the spirit and life of God. Many of my friends were struck with wonder when they heard of my going, but none opened their mouths against it, hoping it was of God. Some wished that their situation would allow them to go with me. Asbury Supplied with Funds. I returned to Bristol in the latter end of August, where Richard Wright was waiting for me, to sail in a few days for Philadelphia. When I came to Bristol I had not one penny of money; but the Lord soon opened the hearts of friends, who supplied me with clothes and ten pounds: thus I found, by experience, that the Lord will provide for those who trust in him. Sails for America, On IVednesday, September 4, we set sail from a port near Bristol, and, having a good wind, soon passed 1771.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 25 the Channel. ‘or three days I was very ill with the sea-sickness, and no sickness I ever knew was equal to it. The captain behaved well to us. On the Lords Day, September 8, Brother W. preached a ser- mon on deck, and all the crew gave attention. Asbury’s Reflections on Shipboard. Thursday, 12. I. will set down a few things that lie on my mind. Whither am I going? To the New World. What to do? To gain honor? No, if I know my own heart. To get money? No; I am going to live to God, and to bring others so to do. In America there has been a work of God; some moving first among the Friends, but in time it de- clined; likewise by the Presbyterians, but among them also it declined. The people God owns in En- gland are the Methodists. The doctrines they preach, and the discipline they enforce, are, I believe, the pur- est of any people now in the world. The Lord has greatly blessed these doctrines and this discipline in three kingdoms: they must, therefore, be pleasing to him. If God does not acknowledge me in America I will soon return to England. I know my views are upright now; may they never be otherwise! How Employed. On the Lora’s Day, September 22, I preached to the ship’s company on John iii, 23, but, alas! they were insensible creatures. My heart has been much pained on their account. I spent my time chiefly in retire- ment, in prayer, and in reading the Appeals, Mr. De Renty’s life, part of Mr. Norris's Works, Mr. Edwards on the Work of God in New England, the Pilgrim’s 26 Character and Carecr of [1771. Progress, the Bible, and Mr. Wesle¥’s Sermons. I feel a strong desire to be given up to God—body, soul, time, and talents—far more than heretofore. September 29. I preached to the ship’s company again on these words, “To you is the word of this salvation sent.” I felt some drawings of soul toward them, but saw no fruit. Yet still I must go on. While they will hear, I will preach as I have oppor- tunity. My judgment is with the Lord. I must keep in the path of duty. Asbury’s Trials on the Voyage. October 13. Though it was very windy, I fixed my back against the mizzen mast and preached freely on those well-known words, 2 Cor. v, 20: “Now then we are embassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” I felt the power of truth on my own soul, but still, alas! saw no visible fruit ; but my witness is in heaven that I have not shunned to declare to them all the counsel of God. Many have been my trials in the course of this voyage from the want of a proper bed and proper provisions, from sick- ness, and from being surrounded with men and women ignorant of God and very wicked. But all this is nothing. If I cannot bear this, what have I learned? O, I have reason to be much ashamed of many things which I speak and do before God and man. Lord, pardon my manifold defects and failures in duty. Pa,] He Lands in Philadelphia. October 27. This day we landed in Philadelphia, where we were directed to the house of one Mr.*Francis Har- 1171.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 27 ris, who kindly entertained us in the evening, and brought us to alarge church where we met with acon- siderable congregation. Brother Pilmoor preached. The people looked on us with pleasure, hardly know- ing how to show their love sufficiently, bidding us welcome with fervent affection, and receiving us as angels of God. O that we may always walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called! When I came near the American shore, my very heart melted within me to think from whence I came, where I was going, and what I was going about. But I felt my mind open to the people, and my tongue loosed to speak. I feel that God is here, and find plenty of all we need. Asbury Preaches in Philadelphia, Tuesday, November 6. I preached at Philadelphia my last sermon before I set out for New York, on Romans viii, 32: “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him freely give us all things?” This also was a night of power to my own and many other souls. N. J] Visits Burlington and Staten Island. November 7. 1 went to Burlington on my way to New York, and preached in the court-house to a large, serious congregation. Here also I felt my heart much opened. In the way from thence to New York I met with one P. Van Pelt, who had heard me preach at Philadelphia. After some conversation, he invited me to his house on Staten Island; and as I was not engaged to be at New York on any particular day, I went with him and preached in his house. Still T believe God hath sent me to this country. All I seek 28 Character and Career of [1771. is to be more spiritual, and given up entirely to God— to be all devoted to him whom I love. Asbury Reaches New York, On Monday I set out for New York, and found Richard Boardman there in peace, but weak in body. Now I must apply myself to my old work—to watch, and fight, and pray. Lord, help! Tuesday, 13. 1 preached at New York to a large congregation on 1 Cor. ii, 2: “I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified,” with some degree of freedom in my own mind. I approved much of the spirit of the peo- ple ; they were loving and serious ; there appeared, also, in some a love of discipline. Though I was un- willing to go to New York so soon, I believe it is all well, and I still hope I am in the order of God. My friend B. is a kind, loving, worthy man, truly amiable and entertaining, and of a child-like temper. I pur- pose to be given up to God more and more, day by day. But O! I come short. N.Y.) He is Fixed to the Methodist Plan, Tuesday, 20. I remain in New York, though unsat- isfied with our being both in town together. I have not yet the thing which I seek—a circulation of preachers, to avoid partiality and popularity. How- ever, I am fixed to the Methodist plan, and do what I do faithfully as to God. I expect trouble is at hand. This I expected when I left England, and I am will- ing to suffer, yea, to die, sooner than betray so good a cause by any means, It will be a hard matter to stand against all opposition, as an iron pillar, strong 1771.] Bishop Asbury Tlustrated. 29 and steadfast as a wall of brass, but through Christ strengthening me, I can do all things. Thursday, 22. At present I am dissatisfied. I judge we are to be shut up in the cities this win- ter. My brethren seem unwilling to leave the cities, but JI think I shall show them the way. I am in trouble, and more trouble is at hand, for I am deter- mined to make a stand against all partiality. I have nothing to seek but the glory of God, nothing to fear but his displeasure. J am come over with an upright intention, and through the grace of God I will make it appear, and Iam determined that no man shall bias me with soft words and fair speéches, nor will I ever fear (the Lord helping me) the face of man, or know any man after the flesh, if I beg my bread from door to door ; but whomsoever I please or displease, I will be faithful to God, to the people, and to my own soul. Asbury’s Trip to Westchester. Saturday, November 24. I went with Brother S. and Brother W. to Westchester, which is about twenty miles from New York. My friends waited on the mayor for the use of the court-house, which was readily granted. On the Lord’s day morning, a con- siderable company being gathered together, I stood up in the Lord’s power ; yea, I felt the Holy One was nigh. I judged that my audience needed to be taught the first principles of religion, so I spoke from those words, “Now he commandeth all men every-where to repent.” Seriousness sat on the faces of my hearers, and the power of God came both on me and them, while I labored to show them the nature and neces- sity of repentance, and the proper subjects and time 30 Character and Career of [177T. for it. In the afternoon the congregation was in- creased, both in number and seriousness ; some of the chief men of the town—the mayor and others— were present. I delivered my thoughts on those words, “This is his commandment, that we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another.” I felt warmth in my soul while I set forth the nature and necessity of faith, and much enlargement toward my hearers. In the evening: I preached at one M.’s, at a place called West Farms, to many persons on the love of God. The next day I preached at Westchester again to a large company, and felt a sense of God resting on my heart, and much love to the people. Being detained another day by the roughness of the weather, I preached another sermon on this text: “Knowing therefore the terrors of the Lord, we persuade men.” In the evening we went to the mayor's, where we lodged that night, and the nextday at noon set out for New York. : Asbury at New Rochelle, Tuesday, December 10. I rode to New Rochelle, and was received with great kindness by Mr. Deveau and his family, and preached there to a few. The next day, also, I preached to a large company and found liberty, and believe the power of God was among us. From thence I rode to Rye, where a few people were collected together to hear the word, and the next day preached to them again. On Sznday, 14, I rode back to Eastchester and preached to a large company, and found some satisfaction in speak- ing on “The one thing needful.” On the Lord’s day I preached at New Rochelle in the church. My text @ 1772.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 31 was, “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” I fel an opening, and was satisfied. I published myself to preach again in the afternoon, and those who had most opposed me before came to hear, and behaved well. In the evening I preached in the house of my friend: Mr. D. The next day I preached again at Mr. D.’s, and on Tuesday went to Rye, where I had many to hear, and felt some free- dom of spirit. The next day I preached at Mairnock, to a company of people who at first took but little notice of the worship of God; but I trust some of them felt the power of truth in their hearts. On Thursday I returned to New York and found my friends in peace. Asbury Sick—Kindly Treated. Tuesday, the 21st, I preached at my friend D.’s for the last time on “Those things that ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do.” The people seemed deeply affected under the word. In the morning of the 22d I set out for the New City, and preached there in much weakness and pain of body, and in the evening went to my friend P’s. That night I had no rest, and when I arose in the morning the pain in my throat was worse. On the 23d I came in a covered sleigh to my friend B.’s, where I took up my lodging, being unable to go any further. I then applied to a physician, who made applications to my ears, throat, and palate, which were all swelled and inflamed exceedingly. For six or seven days I could neither eat nor drink without great pain. The physician feared I should be strangled before a dis- charge took place, but my God ordered all things well. I am raised up again, and cannot help remark- 32 Character and Career of [1772. ing the kindness with which my friends treated me as if I had been their own brother. The parents and children attended me day and night with the greatest attention. Thus, though a stranger in a strange land, God has taken care of me. May the Lord remember them that have remembered me, and grant to this family life for evermore ! ‘ Asbury in New York—Self-Consecration. On friday, the 8th, I set out for New York in a sleigh, and my friends seemed glad to see me. I want to be less concerned about any thing except my own work—the salvation of souls. At present I seem determined to consecrate my all to God—body, soul, time, and talents. He Visits from House to House, On the Lord's Day found myself weak, but Brother P. being ill, I preached in the morning and found life. Stayed at home on Monday, and read in Mr. Wesley’s Notes on the Old Testament. On Monday, the 11th, I went to the jail and visited a condemned criminal, and preached to him and others with some tender feelings of mind on these words, “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth.” Twesday, the 12th. This day I have visited many of my friends from house to house, and did not find much evil or much good stirring among them. Now I re- tire to hold communion with God and to feel his power. On Staten Island. On Thursday, the 20th, I gave an exhortation in public. Having a desire to visit my friends on Staten Island I set off in the afternoon of the 21st, contrary 1772.] Bishop Asbury TMlustrated. 33 a to the persuasion of my friends in New York. S.S., who was tender toward me in my illness, and took care of me as if I had been his father, accompanied me. Justice W. received us and entertained us kindly, and though weak and weary, I preached at P. V. P.’s to a few persons with much satisfaction. Mr. D. invited me to preach in his house, to which I consented; and Justice W. sent us there on the Lord’s Day with several of his family. I preached twice at that gentleman’s house to a large company. Some, it appears, had not heard a sermon for half a year; such a famine there is of the word in these parts, and a still greater one of the pure word. I re- turned in the evening to Justice W.’s, and preached to a numerous congregation with comfort. Surely God sent me to these people at the first, and I trust he will continue to bless them, and pour out his spirit - upon them, and receive them at last to himself! February 23, I preached again at Justice W.’s to many people, and the Lord was with me. My labors in- crease, and my strength is renewed. Though I came here weak, yet after preaching three times I felt my- self strong. Thanks be to God who hath raised me up from so low a state! On the 24th I preached at A. W.’s, at two in the afternoon, to a large company, and had an invitation to go to the south part of the Island ; in the evening, also, I preached at the same place. On the 26th I preached at the ferry, on my way to York, to a few people, though some came two miles on foot. Pa,] Asbury in Philadelphia, April 2, 1 came to Philadelphia, and finding Brother B. and Brother W. there, was much comforted. 3 34 Character and Career of [1772, Brother B.’s plan was, that he should go to Boston, Brother P. to Virginia, Brother W. to New York, and that I should stay three months in Philadelphia. With this I was well pleased. Del] Asbury in Wilmington. ‘ Tuesday, 13. Was advised and invited to preach at Wilmington, which I did, though there were but few to hear. Wednesday, 14. Rode to Chester, and preached in the court-house. The Church minister and many Quakers were present, but the congregation appeared to be the wildest I had seen in America. But I hum- bly hope the labor was not all in vain. In the morn- ing I visited and spoke with great freedom to four men who were under sentence of death. Pa.] Returns to Philadelphia, Thursday, 15. I rode through a heavy rain to Phil- adelphia, and preached the next morning with some freedom. Tuesday, 20. My mind is quiet and’ serene. I am now free from company, which is very pleasing to me, having found that much company is both disagreeable and dangerous. Wednesday, 21. Met the society and found both life and liberty among the people. This night Brother W. came in from Virginia. He gives a flaming ac- count of the work there. Many of the people seem to be ripe for the Gospel and ready to receive us. I humbly hope, before long, about seven preachers of us will spread seven or eight hundred miles, and preach in as many places as we are able to attend. 1772.) Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 35 Lord, make us humble, watchful, and useful to the end of our lives! Asbury not to be Guided by Half-hearted Methodists, Tuesday, 28. I intended to go out of. town, but could not get a horse. So I stayed for Brother W. and heard that many were offended at my shutting them out of society meeting, as they had been greatly indulged before. But this does not trouble me. While I stay the rules must be attended to, and I can- not suffer myself to be guided by half-hearted Meth- odists. An elderly Friend told me very gravely that “the opinion of the people was much changed, within a few days, about Methodism, and that the Quakers and other dissenters had laxed ¢hezr discipline; that none but the Roman Catholics kept it up with strict- ness.” But these things do not move me. NO) Again in Burlington. Wednesday, 29. Set out for Burlington, where I met with Brother W. and Brother K., and found the people there very lively. Two persons have obtained justification under Brother W., and a certain Dr. T., a man of dissipation, was touched under Brother B.’s preaching last night. I admire the kindness of my friends to such a poor worm as I. O my God! re- member them! remember me! Thursday, 30. 1 humbly hope the word was blessed to a large number of people who attended while I preached at the court-house. Pa] Execution at Chester. Set out for Philadelphia, but about a mile from the city found that the bridge could not be crossed on 36 Character and Career of [1772. horseback, so I left my horse and walked to the ferry. Brother W. took the horse and went to Burlington on his way to New York. Was desired to attend the execution of the prisoners at Chester, and J. K. went with me. We found them penitent, and two of the four obtained peace with God, and seemed very thank- ful. I preached with liberty to a great number of people under the jail wall. The sheriff was friendly and very kind: J. K. preached at the gallows to a vast multitude, after which I prayed with them. The executioner pretended to tie them all up, but only tied one, and let the rest fall. One of them was a young man about fifteen. We sawthem all afterward, and exhorted them to be careful. We returned to Philadelphia the same night, and I gave an exhortation. N. UJ Asbury Visits Prisoners at Burlington. Tuesday, May 5. Set out for Burlington again, and preached to a serious people. But how is my soul troubled that I am not more devoted! O my God! my soul groans and longs for this. - May 6. My heart was much humbled, but the Lord enabled me to preach with power in my soul. Thursday, 7. Visited some prisoners, and one of them, who is to be tried for his life, seemed much af- fected. In the evening I preached, and felt my heart much united to this people. Next morning set off for Philadelphia, and got in time enough for inter- cession, after which I visited a sick friend who rested her soul on God, and then I preached in the evening. At Trenton. Wednesday, 20. Went to Trenton ; but as the court was sitting, I was obliged to preach in a school-house 1772. ° Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 37 to but few people ; and as there were soldiers in the town I could hardly procure lodging. Asbury Warns the People at an Execution. Friday, 29. I preached under the jail wall; and for the benefit of the prisoner, attended him to the place of execution. When he came forth, he roared like a bull ina net. He looked on every side, and shrieked for help; but all in vain. O how awful! Die he must—I fear, unprepared. I prayed with him, and for him. How difficult it is (if I may use the term) to drench a hardened sinner with religion ! I saw him tied up ; and then, stepping on a wagon, I spoke a word in season, and warned the people to flee from the wrath to come, and improve the day of their gracious visitation, no more grieving the Spirit of God, lest a day should come in which they may cry, and God may refuse to hear them. We then rode home to Philadelphia, where I exhorted in the even- ing, and found myself much more drawn out than I expected. Begging Money--Ohurch Debt. Thursday, 25. Traveling back toward Gloucester, called at Squire P.’s and presented him with a peti- tion for raising £150 to discharge the debt on our preaching-house at Philadelphia. He promised both to give himself, and to propose it to others. “Still as a Dumb Man,” Fuly 1. Went over the ferry and preached to many people ; among whom were some fine women, who behaved with airs of great indifferency. Return- 38 Character and Career of » [1772. ing to Trenton, I preached at night, and the next morning at five, after which I set off for Philadelphia with unprofitable company ; among whom I sat still as a man dumb, and as one in whose mouth there was no reproof. They appeared so stupidly ignorant, skeptical, deistical, and atheistical, that I thought if there were zo other hell, 1 should strive with all my might to shun that. Came home late and weary, but preached with some comfort. I have lately been blessed with much purity of intention and fervor of spirit, but greatly thirst after living more in God. NY] Asbury Journeys to New York. Wednesday, Fuly 22. In meeting the small society of about nineteen persons I gave them tickets, and found it a comfortable time. They are a serious people ; and there is some prospect of much good being done in this place. After’ preaching on Tues- day morning over the ferry, and in the evening at Trenton, I took leave of them on Wednesday morn- ing, and set off for Philadelphia. Left Philadelphia on the Lord’s day evening, after preaching on these words, “If I come again, I will not spare;” and on Monday met with Brother B. Went thence to New- mills, where I preached on Tuesday night and Wed- nesday morning, and found the people there very affectionate ; then returned to Burlington, and found many friends from Philadelphia. We had power among us at night, and next morning at three I set off for Amboy, and on the way had some conversa- tion with one of Jacob B.’s disciples. We came to the stage-house through much rain and bad roads, about seven o'clock ; thence we went to Amboy, and 1772.| Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 39 took lodging at a tavern. Have been kept in peace through this journey, felt great courage in the work of God, and go toward New York in faith. The con- gregation at Amboy was small, and they appeared to be such as cared but little for the Gospel; so that my hope of that place is but slender. On Saturday evening I preached with some power toa large con- gregation of rich and poor, from these words, “ Even from the days of your fathers, ye have gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them; return unto me, and I will return unto you.” After preaching with great liberty on the Lord’s day to many people at P. V.’s and Justice W.’s on Staten Tsland, I set off on Monday in a boat for New York; and arriving about five o’clock, found Mr. W., who that night had preached his farewell sermon, and told the people that he did not expect to see them any more. I have always dealt honestly with him, but he has been spoiled by gifts. He has been pretty strict in the society, but ended all with a general love- feast, which I think is undoing all he has done. However, none of these things move me. My mind is calm, and my. soul under a comfortable sense of God ; and I am determined, by his grace, to keep on in the way of my duty, if it should be my lot to stand alone. A Mixed Company. Monday, 25. Early in the morning we crossed the North River, in order to go to Staten Island. Many people attended the word, but I know not what to make of them ; for though they seem fond of hearing, yet they do not appear to be much affected. On Tuesday I went to Amboy, and dined with a mixed 40 Character and Career of [1772. company of Assemblymen, Churchmen, Quakers, etc. Many of them came to hear me in sport, but went away very still. On my return I preached at Mr. W.’s, to many people; on Thursday returned to York, and preached in the evening with some life. Friday my soul was kept in peace and love; and while preaching at night, both myself and others felt the power of God in our souls. Asbury Resolves to be a Disciplinarian. Thursday, 10. Mr. D. accompanied me as far as Kingsbridge, on my way to York, where S. S. met me, and rode with me the rest of the way. I preached in the evening, and rose to preach next morning at five. It appears to me that trouble is at hand; but I fear nothing, being conscious of having acted uprightly before them all, and having no by- ends in view. Whoever has, must answer for it. Whatever comes, I am determined, while here, by the grace of God, to proceed according to the Meth- odist doctrine and discipline. Plan of a Sermon on the Judgment, Lords Day, 27. Preaching this morning on “ build- ing the tower,” I had some assistance ; but experi- enced some heavy exercises of mind this day. In the evening I was enabled to preach with power on the awful subject of the judgment; attempting, I. To prove that the judgment will be universal. II. To describe the person of the Judge. III. To describe the awful events preceding and attending that period. ; IV. To point out the business of the day. V. To show the decision and consequences. 1772.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 41 Asbury receives a Letter from Mr. Wesley, Saturday, 10. I received a letter from Mr. Wesley, in which he required a strict attention to discipline, and appointed me to act as assistant. He also en- joined that Mr. W. might not print any more books without his consent. I likewise received a letter from Mr. W., informing me of the state of matters in Maryland, and that it was appointed for me to win- ter there. For this I intend to prepare. NJ] In Trenton and Burlington, Thursday, October 22. In the morning I preached over the river, and in the evening at Trenton, with some assistance. And many young people attended. Saturday, 24. Leaving my horse at Bristol, I went to Burlington ; and on the Lord’s day my spirit was much dejected, though in preaching I felt greatly assisted, and Divine truth reached the hearts of the people. In Philadelphia. Monday, 26. After preaching at five, I left them, and preached in the evening at Philadelphia. All things considered, the people here seemed to be quiet and in good order. Del.] Asbury Visits Prisoners—Reflections, On Tuesday, preached both morning and evening. R. S. and myself set out on Wednesday for Bohemia, and on our way we found a few friends at Newcastle that had not deserted the cause. In this journey I called at Chester jail, and saw the prisoners, who all seemed hardened to a man, and among them were the wretched three that I saw escape the gallows before ; two of these had behaved so badly they were now in 42 Character and Career of [1772. chains. Lord, what is man! And what am I with- out thy grace! Keep me, keep me, holy Lord, and never let me go! Let me die rather than live to sin against thee! I spoke freely to one of them, who was a murderer. Md] Description of Frederica. Thursday, 19. Friend D. and I set off for Frederica. We came to G. S.’s, where I expected to have preached, but there was a disappointment; so we pursued our way, though my little horse was unwell and very weary. A poor, unhappy man abused me much on the road; he cursed, swore, and threw stones at me. But I found it-my duty to talk to him, and show him his danger. Frederica is a neat little town, having one main street and three cross streets. It contains about a thousand houses, and the inhab- itants are chiefly Germans. There are two German churches, one Calvinist, and one Lutheran. There is also one English church, and one Roman chapel. Many people came to hear me in this town. The “Forest Home” for the Methodist. Wednesday, 25. We rode about twenty miles to my old friend Joshua Owing’s, the forest-home for the Methodists at that time, and found a very agreeable house and family. The old man is “an Israelite in- deed.” He was once a serious Churchman, who sought for truth; and now God has revealed it to him. The Lord has also begun to bless his family. He has one son a preacher, and the rest of his chil- dren are very thoughtful. Though it was a rainy day, there were many people, and my heart was greatly enlarged toward them in preaching. 1772.] Bishop Asbury LMlustrated. 43 Asbury in Contact with a Church Minister. Wednesday, 9. Preached to many people, rich and poor, at J. R.’s, and at another place in the evening. friday, 11. Went twelve miles into Kent county, and had many great people to hear me. But before preaching, one Mr. R.,a Church minister, came to me and desired to know who I was, and whether I was licensed. I told him who I was. He spoke great, swelling words, and told me he had authority over the people, and was charged with the care of their souls. He also told me that I could not and should -not preach ; and if I did, he would proceed against me according to law. I let him know that I came to preach, and preach I would; and further asked him if he had authority to bind the consciences of the peo- ple, or if he was a justice of the peace ; and told him I thought he had nothing to do with me. He charged me with making a schism. I told him that I did not draw the people from the Church ; and asked him if his church was then open? He told me that I hindered people from their work ; but I asked him if fairs and horse-races did not hinder people from their work ? and, further, told him that I came to help him. He said he had not hired me for an assistant, and did not want my help. I told him, if there were no swearers or other sinners, he was sufficient. But, said he, What did you come for? I replied, to turn sinners toGod: He said, Can- not I do that as wellas you? I told him that I had authority from God. He then laughed at me, and said, You are a fine fellow, indeed! I told him I did not do this to invalidate his authority ; and also gave 44 Character and Career of [1772. him to understand that I did not wish to dispute with him ; but he said he had business with me, and came into the house in a great rage. I began to preach, and urged the people to repent, and turn from all their transgressions, so iniquity should not prove their ruin. After preaching, the parson went out, and told the people they did wrong in coming to hear me, and said I spoke against learning. Whereas, I only spoke to this purpose—when a man turned from all sin, he would adorn every character in life, both in Church and State. I left him, and preached at John R.’s at seven o'clock. Outline of a Sermon at Quarterly Mesting. Tuesday, 22, On my way to Susquehanna, a person came for me to visit Mrs. T. in a dropsy. I then proceeded to J. D.’s; and the next day set off for J. P.’s, to attend our quarterly meeting. Many people attended, and several friends came many miles. I preached from Acts xx, 28: “Take heed, therefore, unto yourselves,” etc. After showing to whom the charge was given, I proceeded to enforce the subject thus : I. Take heed to your spirits. II. Take heed to your practice. III. Take heed to your doctrine. IV. Take heed to the flock. 1. Those that are under deep conviction. 2. Those that are true believers. 3. Those that are sorely tempted. 4. Those that are groaning for full redemption. 5. Those that have backslidden. I then urged the motives to this duty. 1773.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 45 Asbury in Baltimore, Fanuary 3. Rode to Baltimore, and had a large congregation at the house of Captain Paten, at the Point. Many of the principal people were there, and the Lord enabled me to speak with power. At night I preached in town. The house was well filled with people, and we have a comfortable hope the work of the Lord will revive in this place. Bless the Lord, O ye saints! Holiness is the element of my soul. My earnest prayer is, that nothing contrary to holi- ness may live in me. The Doctrine of Perfect Love—Its Tendency. Lord’s Day, Fanuary to. Many people attended at J. P.’s, to whom I preached twice with some life, and then went three miles into the Neck, and felt much power while preaching on perfect love. The more I speak on this subject, the more my soul is filled and drawn out in love. This doctrine has a great tend- ency to prevent people from settling on their lees. Preaches at a Tavern, Saturday, 30. Perceiving the great wickedness of the people who were swearing and drinking in a tav- ernegreat struggles arose in my mind about preach- ing there; however I broke through every difficulty, ann felt both life and power in dispensing the word among them. An Old-fashioned Quarterly Meeting. Monday, 29. Rode twenty miles to Susquehanna, and just got in, almost spent, time enough to preach at three o’clock. Hitherto the Lord hath helped me. Praised forever be his dear and blessed name! 46 Character and Career of [1773. Tuesday, 30. Our quarterly meeting began. After I had preached we proceeded to business, and in our little conference the following queries were pro- pounded, namely: 1. Are there no disorderly persons in our classes? It was thought not. 2. Does not dram-drinking too much prevail among our people ? 3. Do none contract debts without due care to pay them? We found that this evil is much avoided among our people. 4. Are the band-meetings kept up? ? s. Is there nothing immoral in any of our preach- ers? 6. What preachers travel now, and where are they stationed? It was then urged that none must break our rules under the penalty of being excluded from our connection. All was settled in the most amicable manner. Mr. S. preached a good and useful sermon from Joel ii, 17, “ Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar,” etc. Many people were present at our love-feast, among whom were some strangers; but all were deeply serious, and the power of God was present indeed. Brother O. preached a very alarming sermon, “and Brother S. gave a moving exhortation. The whole ended in great peace. And we all went, in the strength of the Lord, to our several appointments. Asbury at Baltimore, Saturday, 3. Preached at Baltimore, where we had a comfortable meeting. Lord’s Day, 4. I delivered a funeral discourse, but was much shut up in my mind. 1773.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 47 Went thence to the Forest, and preached at seven o'clock with great comfort. Several rich people at- tended preaching the last three days, and did not seem displeased with the plain truths of the Gospel. One or two persons here seem to be groaning for full redemption. My heart is grieved that I have not been entirely devoted to God, but have great reason to be thankful that I feel more and more desire after God. Pa. | Asbury in Philadelphia, ‘Wednesday, 14. Came very weary to Philadelphia, but the sight of my friends greatly revived me, and all seem to be in peace. Tuesday proved to be a day of peace to my soul, part of which I spent in visiting the people. The next day I was employed in writing to England, and after preaching in the evening with power, I went to rest in sweet peace, and awoke in the morning in the same frame of spirit. May this day be spent to the glory of God, and may my soul yet praise him more and more! N. ¥.] In New York. On Thursday there was an appointment for me to preach at Newtown. Brother S. and myself crossed the East River, but it was with difficulty we obtained horses. We then attempted to proceed on our way, but it was a severe morning, with much snow and wind. The snow came full in our faces, so that after riding a few miles we were lost in the storm, and im- perceptibly turned our course back toward New York, which we never discovered till we overtook some people on the road. We then crossed the river back to the city, where I continued till Monday. 48 Character and Career of [1773. Asbury's Description of New York City. New York is a large city, and well situated for: trade; but the streets and buildings are very irregular. The inhabitants are of various denominations, but nevertheless of a courteous and sociable disposition. There are several places of divine worship: the Epis- copalians have three, the High Dutch one, the Low Dutch three, the Lutherans two, the French Prot- estants one, the Presbyterians two, the Seceders one, the Baptists one, the Moravians one, the Methodists one, and the Jews one. The city abounds with inhab- itants, but the exact number I could not ascertain. NJ] In New Jersey. From Saturday, 17, till Thursday, 22, was spent in the Jerseys, where I preached at different places, and often to large congregations. The Lord was frequently with me in mercy and power, and my heart was greatly enlarged. How I long to be more holy—to live more with God, and for God! Troubles encompass me about, but the Lord is my helper. Before my return to Philadelphia I had the pleasure of seeing the foundation laid of a new preaching- house, thirty-five feet by thirty. Then I returned and preached on Thursday evening, the Lord being with me. Pa, ] A Letter from Mr, Wesley, Thursday, ©. After spending a few days in a coun- try tour, preaching to many people at Goshen, Marl- borough, and other places with some assistance, I returned and preached in Philadelphia this evening, on the subject of the stony-ground hearers. Some per- haps were displeased with me. But I must declare 1773.] Bishop Asbury IMlustrated. 49 the whole counsel of God, and leave the event to him. This day a letter from Mr. Wesley came to hand, dated March 2, in which he informs me that the time of his coming over to America is not yet, being detained by the building of the new chapel. Has a Christian a Bad Heart? Thursday, 13. Through much rain I returned, wet and weary, to Philadelphia, after having preached at several places in the Jerseys, and sometimes with much freedom and power. Many people attended this evening, while I described an honest and good heart, under the similitude of the good ground which received the seed and brought forth fruit. This was free from the hardness of the way-side, from the shal- lowness of the stony ground, and from the obstruc- tions of the thorny ground. The honesty of the heart appears in its conduct toward God, toward all mankind, and toward itself. As our Lord is pleased to denominate such a heart good as well as honest, is it not very wrong for a Christian to say he has a dad heart? Is not all that the Holy Ghost produces . good? And so far as that blessed Spirit has changed the heart of a believer, is it not good? Through the unmerited grace of God I have no desire to seek any thing but him, and that which may lead me to him. N, JJ Asbury in Burlington, Lord’s Day, 6. After preaching both yesterday and this morning at Burlington, I went to church in order to receive the sacrament. But the parson gave us a strange discourse, full of inconsistency and rail- 4 50 Character and Career of (1773. lery. Leaving him to answer for his own conduct, I took no further notice of it, but preached at night from these words, “ The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God,” etc., and showed, first, what the things of the Spirit of God are. Secondly, described the natural man. And, thirdly, showed how they appear to be foolishness to him, and that he cannot know them by the strength of his natural or acquired abilities. The little society in Burlington appears to be in a comfortable and prosperous state. On my way to Trenton I met A. W. on the road. We stopped at a house, and in the course of conver- sation I found he was much dejected in his mind, but before we parted he appeared to be somewhat comforted. Many people attended the preaching at Trenton, though the notice was but short. N. Yj Asbury in New York, friday, 11. Mr. R. came to Trenton. After dinner and prayer we set off together for Princeton. On Saturday we reached New York, and our friends there, having previous notice of our coming, kindly met us on the dock where we landed. The sight of Mr. W., with some other occurring circumstances, affected Mr. R. so that he appeared to be rather cast down in his mind. On Staten Island, Saturday, 26. Having preached a few times in New York since my return, I set off for Staten Island, but the heat was so extremely powerful that I stopped at my old friend J. W.’s, and on the Lord’s Day heard Mr. P., a Presbyterian minister, preach twice, but 1773.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 51 thought he was too metaphysical and superficial. In: the evening I preached in Mr. W.’s yard, from Heb. v, 12: “Ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God.” My mind is filled with the peace of God, and is drawn out in love to him and all mankind. Blessed be the Lord! Destruction of Mr, Whitefield's Orphan House, Thursday, Fuly t. Set off for New York, and hav- ing a tedious passage over the North River, I spent some time in serious conversation with two men in the boat, and hope it was not in vain. Then I came safe to New York, and preached from Habakkuk iii, 2: “O Lord, revive thy work in the midst of the years!” On Friday arrived the sorrowful news of the destruction of Mr. Whitefield’s Orphan House. As there’ was no fire in the house, it was supposed to have been set on fire by lightning, which had been in the morning, as some say, accompanied with a sul- phurous smell. It broke out in a rapid flame about seven or eight o'clock at night, and consumed the whole building except the two wings. Pa, ] A General Conference, Wednesday, 14. Our General Conference began, in which the following propositions were agreed to: 1. The old Methodist doctrine and discipline shall be enforced and maintained among all our societies in America. 2. Any preacher who acts otherwise cannot be re- tained among us as a fellow-laborer in the vineyard. 3. No preacher in our connection shall ‘be permit- ted to administer the ordinances at this time except 52 Character and -Career of [1773. Mr. S., and he under the particular direction of the assistant. 4. No person shall be admitted more than once or twice to our love-feasts or society-meetings without becoming a member. 5. No preacher shall be permitted to reprint our books without the approbation of Mr. Wesley, and the consent of his brethren. And that R. W. shall be allowed to sell what he has, but reprint no more. 6. Every assistant is to send an account of the work | of God in his circuit to the general assistant. There were some debates among the preachers in this Conference relative to the conduct of some who had manifested a desire to abide in cities and live like gentlemen. Three years out of four have been already spent in the cities. It was also found that money had been wasted, improper leaders appointed, and many of our rules broken. Del.) The People of Newcastle, On Monday, Brother Y. rode in company with me to Mr. S.’s, where I preached with sweet freedom toa few attentive people. We took friendly counsel to- gether, and our time was profitably and comfortably spent. On Tuesday morning my heart was still with the Lord, and my peace flowed as ariver. Glory be given to God! On Wednesday, at Newcastle, the company was but small, though great power attended the word. Perhaps the Lord will yet visit this peo- ple, though at present too many of them appear to be devoted to pride, vanity, and folly. But, through abundant mercy, my heart is devoted to God and to his work. O that it may never depart from him! 1773.] Bishop Asbury [Tlustrated. 53 Ma.) Great Hope for Baltimore, On Wednesday I set out for Baltimore, but was taken very sick on the road ; however, I pursued my way, though it was sometimes through hard rain and heavy thunder, and preached in Baltimore on Thurs- day, in Mrs. Tribulet’s new house, which she freely lent for that purpose. There appeared to be a con- siderable moving under the word. After preaching the next morning at the Point, I went to see a woman once happy in several respects, but now under dis- tressing circumstances. Her husband was driven from her, and she was left with four children for three months. Many people in general attend the preaching in Baltimore, especially after we have been long enough in town for the inhabitants to receive full knowledge of our being there. And I have great hope that the Lord will do something for the souls in this place, though the little society has been rather neglected for want of proper persons to lead them. An Imputation Hurled Back. Saturday, 25. While preaching toa large company at Mr. Gibbs’s we had a moving, melting time. After preaching at nine o’clock the next morning at the same place I went to church, and thought the minister intended to point at me by speaking against idleness, and people who. follow an unwarrantable employment, and doing what they have no business with. But, can any employment be more unwarrant- able than the charge of souls without any real con- cern for their salvation? And, bad as idleness is, it is far preferable to leading immortal souls astray. The 54 Character and Career of [1773. world can judge whether he is most like an idle man who reads a dry harangue every Lord’s day, or he who toils and labors both day and night. to save the souls of men. But these things I leave with the Lord. Many people attended my preaching in the evening, while I took occasion, from 2 Cor. v, 20,. to show, among other things, the evangelical mission and life of a true embassador of Christ. A Painful Prospect, Thursday, 30. Though very weak and low, the Lord favored me with a good opportunity, life, and liberty, at Daniel Ruff’s. Friday, Oct. t. 1 was exceedingly ill at Mr. D.’s ; and now began to think my traveling would be inter- rupted. This is my greatest trouble and pain, to forsake the work of God, and to neglect the people, whose spiritual interest and salvation I seek with my whole soul. The next day, finding myself too weak to travel, I sent Brother E. in my place; and must content myself to abide here awhile, where they treat me with the greatest care and kindness. My present purpose is, if the Lord spares and raises me up, to be more watchful and circumspect in all my ways. O Lord, rcmember me in mercy, and brace up my feeble soul ! Asbury Raised Up from the Borders of Death. Wednesday, 6. My disorder has increased, and for several days my indisposition has been so great that I kept no journal. My friends wept around, and ex- pected my dissolution was near. But the Lord thought on both them and me, to raise me up from 1773.] Bishop Asbury IMlustrated. 55 the borders of death. O that my few remaining days may be spent to his glory !—that every valuable end may be answered by my future life! Preaches after a Month’s Intermission. Monday, 15. Found myself much better in health, and concluded to set off on my Master’s business as soon as I should be properly equipped. On Zhurs- day my heart was fixed, trusting in the Lord; and as my body was gathering strength, I set out on Monday for Baltimore, and on Friday reached Will- iam Lynch’s, who entertained me with the greatest kindness. Here I had the pleasure of seeing our new church begun on Back-river Neck. The next day he conducted me in his carriage to the Point, where I was enabled to preach with some power. Then returned to the Neck, and met with Mr. J. He heard the word of God with great freedom of mind ; and I believe his false peace was broken. My spirit was greatly refreshed by meeting Brother Y. at Baltimore on Monday; and the next day I was much assisted in preaching to a large number of people in town, both rich and poor. May the Lord arise and show himself gracious to these people! Through abundant grace I feel nothing contrary to the purest intention, nor the least desire for any thing but God. Bless the Lord, O my soul! Quarterly Conference—Arrangement for the Work. Lord’s Day, 30. It appears that the people have a great desire to know the truth ; for though it rained, and froze as it fell, yet a great many attended to hear. It was a very solemn time at night, while I 56 Character and Career of [1774. discoursed on the awful day of judgment. Samuel Owings is tenderly affected for the salvation of his soul. And William Moore and Philip Rogers seem to be in earnest about this important matter. Glory to God for these things! Set out on Monday for our quarterly meeting, and met the preachers at Brother Owings’s. They all appeared to have their hearts fixed on promoting the work of God for the ensuing quarter, and we consulted together with great free- dom and love. On the first day I inquired into the moral character of the local preachers, appointed them their work, and gave them written licenses to officiate. The preachers who spoke at this meeting manifested great earnestness and zeal for the salva- tion of souls, and many of the people were much affected ; all was harmony and love. For the next quarter we had our stations as follows: P. Eberd, E. Drumgoole, and Richard Owings in Frederick circuit ; Brother Yerbery and Brother Rawlings in Kent circuit; Henry Watters and Brother W. in Baltimore circuit; and myself in Baltimore town, We appointed. our next quarterly meeting to be held in Baltimore on the first day of May next. Much fatigued in my feeble frame by various exercise, I returned to town and visited Mrs. Moore, who was afflicted in body and distressed in mind. Asbury's Solicitude for Baltimore. Friday, Feb. 18. While preaching at the house of Mr. Moore, his father and mother were moved by the word of God. But after lying down at night to rest, my heart was oppressed with inexpressible feelings for the inhabitants of Baltimore. I am pressed under 1774.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 57 them as a cart full of sheaves, and would rather be employed in the most servile offices than preach to them, if it were not from a sense of duty to God, and a desire to be instrumental in saving their souls. If honor and worldly gain were held out as motives to this painful work, they would to me appear lighter than vanity. But, Lord, thou knowest my motives and my ends! O prosper thou the work of my heart and my hands! A Ohampion in Sin Wounded by the Spirit, Tuesday, March 1. Several went with me to John Waters’s, where we found a large company of peo- ple collected, who appeared both ignorant and proud. While attempting to preach to them from these words, “May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?”” my mind was oppressed above measure, so that both my heart and my mouth were almost shut; and after I had done, my spirit was greatly troubled. O my soul! if confined to the society of the wicked, what couldst thou find but vexation and grief? But “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” Having frequently sixteen or twenty miles to ride, and then to preach before dinner, which is often as late as four o’clock, it ‘shakes my constitution, and is painful to the flesh. But I cheerfully submit to these things for the sake of precious souls. What did the blessed Jesus suffer forme! The next day a champion in sin, a man who had been a famous ringleader in absurd and dia- bolical sports, was deeply wounded by the Spirit of God, while in the course of my sermon I was describ- ing the horrible torments to which those would be 58 Character and Career of [1774. exposed in hell who had been instruments in the hands of Satan to train up others in sin and disobedi- ence. He afterward invited me home, and we had some serious conversation. I then returned to Bal- timore. Using the Ordinances, Friday, 11. On my way to Joseph Presbury’s my horse tired, and fell down with me on his back, but I was not in the least hurt. Calling at Dr. Hender- son’s, I met with I. R.,.a Quaker, who said it gave him pain to think that Joseph Pilmoor should go home for ordination, and expressed his disapprobation of our going to the Church for the ordinances, sup- posing we might have them among ourselves. But this was all a farce. He would rather that we should drop them altogether. And in the course of conversation he labored to overthrow them entirely. But when I told him it might appear to me as a duty to use them, though I should not suppose that all went to hell who did not use them, he asked why we use them if they are not essential to salvation. What weak reasoning is this! Do they think laying them aside is thus essential, or wearing their clothes in such a shape, or using (as they call it) the plain language? Why then do they follow these practices ? But what makes them so contracted and bitter in their spirit as some of them are? There is One that knoweth. Hopeful of Baltimore, Monday, 18. My soul was in peace, but my body weak. This day the foundation of our house in Bal- timore was laid. Who could have expected that two men, once among the chief of sinners, would ever 1774.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 59 have thus engaged in so great an undertaking for the cause of the blessed Jesus? “This is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes.” He hath touched and changed their hearts. He hath moved them to this acceptable undertaking; and he will surely complete it, and raise up a people to serve him in this place. The Revelation of St. John, Saturday, 23. Though weak in body, I have been able for a few days past to go through my public ex- ercises, and was both instructed and delighted to-day in reading the Revelation with its comment. There we see the rise and spread of the Christian religion through the extensive and idolatrous empire of the Romans, the wars of the Saracens, the gradual rise and arttul progress of Popery. What an amaz- ing prophetic history is this, of all people and nations, in epitome! How expressive are the differently- colored horses and surprising representations seen by St. John! In this book extraordinary events are foretold, as well as the proper rule of our faith and practice revealed. If this deep book were fully un- derstood, need we go any further after knowledge? Friday, 29. What a miracle of grace am I! How unworthy, and yet how abundantly blessed! In the midst of all temptations, both from without and from within, my heart trusteth in the Lord. Iwas greatly delighted to-day in reading Dr. Guise on the Reign of Christ, which on earth will be spiritual, and in glory personal and eternal. O the beauties and joys of which I have some prospect in that celestial world! It seems rather strange that, till lately, I could discover no beauties in the Revelation of St. 60 Character and Career of [1774. John. But nowI think itis the grand key of all mysteries, whether pure or impure ; opening to view all the revolutions, persecutions, and errors of the Church from that time till the end of the world. And then it favors us with a glimpse of what shall remain forever. A Confirmation of the Work of God. Friday, 6. I preached from Matt. xii, 50, but felt my mind dejected. Not meeting with success in this town as my soul ardently longs for, I rather feel a desire to depart, and to try some other people. But let the will of the Lord be done. My heart has been deeply affected by reading the Life of Col. Gardi- ner. Blessed be God for so many who experience the same work of grace which we preach, and at the same time are not of us! This is a great confirma- tion of the work of God. And “ whosoever doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven,” of every de- nomination, “the same shall be my brother, and sis- ter, and mother.” Work of God in Virginia, Mr. W. arrived to-day from Virginia. He gave us a circumstantial account of the work of God in those parts. One house of worship is built, and another in contemplation ; two or three more preachers are gone out upon the itinerant plan ; and in some parts the congregations consist of two or three thousand peo- ple. But some evil-minded persons have opposed the act of toleration, and threatened toimprison him. May the Lord turn their hearts, and make them par- takers of his great salvation ! 1774.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 61 An Assault from Satan. friday, 13. I packed up my clothes and books to be ready for my departure, and had an agreeable conversation with Mr. O. The next day some of my friends were so unguarded and imprudent as to com- mend me to my face. Satan, ready for every advan- tage, seized the opportunity, and assaulted me with self-pleasing, self-exalting ideas. But the Lord ena- bled me to discover the danger, and the snare was broken. May he ever keep me humble, and little, and mean in my own eyes! Del.) Asbury at Newcastle. Thursday, 19. 1 am happy~in God after all my labors. But when among my friends my mind in- clines to a. degree of cheerfulness bordering on levity. O for more watchfulness! a more constant, striking sense of an omnipresent God! Preached to-day in the market-house at Charleston. The congregation was somewhat large, and many of them very attentive. The company was large at Bohemia on Friday, and my own heart was deeply affected, and much drawn out while speaking from Rev. iii, 3. At Newcastle, on Saturday, Satan was there, diverting the people by a play. However, several came to hear me enforce these words, “ Be not ye partakers with them.” Conference at Philadelphia, Monday, 23. After preaching yesterday at New- port and Red Clay Creek, I rode to-day to Chester ; and though weary, spoke from Gal. vi, 14. Here my old friends, Mr. M. and Mr. S., from New York, met 62 Character and Career of [1774. me, and the next day we rode to Philadelphia. Hith- erto the Lord hath helped. Wednesday, 25. Our conference began. The over- bearing spirit of a certain person had excited my - fears. My judgment was very stubbornly opposed for awhile, and at last submitted to. But it is my duty to bear all things with a meek and patient spirit- Our conference was attended with great power ; and, all things considered, with great harmony. We agreed to send Mr. W. to England; and all ac- quiesced in the future stations of the preachers. My lot was to go to New York. My body and mind have been much fatigued during the time of this con- ference. And if I were not deeply conscious of the truth and goodness of the cause in which I am en- gaged, I should by no means stay here. Lord, what a world is this! yea, whata religious world! O keep my heart pure, and my garments unspotted from the world! Our conference ended on Friday with a comfortable intercession. N. Yu Asbury again in New York. Lord’s Day, 29. This was a day of peace, and the Lord favored me with faith and energy while preach- ing to the people. I visited Mr. W., who is going to England, but found he had no taste for spiritual sub- jects. Lord, keep me from all superfluity of dress, and from preaching empty stuff to please the ear, instead of changing the heart! Thus has he fulfilled as a hireling his day. We had a very solemn love- feast to-day, and on Monday my friends and I set off in the stage for New York, where we arrived on Tuesday evening about eight o’clock. We had some trifling company on the way, who talked much but to 1774.] Lishop Asbury Illustrated. 63 little purpose. My old friends in New York were glad to see me. But I still fear there is a root of prej- udice remaining in the hearts of afew.. May the Lord prepare me for all events, that I may act and suffer, in all things, like a Christian! Captain W. preached a good sermon in the evening. A Blessed State of Heart, Tuesday, 14. My heart seems wholly devoted to God, and he favors me with power over all outward and inward sin. My affections appear to be quite weaned from all terrestrial objects. Some people, if they felt as I feel at present, would perhaps con- clude they were saved from all indwelling sin. Omy God, save me and keep me every moment of my life ! The next day my soul was under heavy exercises, and much troubled by manifold temptations ; but still, all my care was cast on the Lord. I find it hurtful to pore too much on myself. True, I should be daily employed in the duty of self-examination, and strict- ly attend both to my internal and external conduct ;. but, at the same time, my soul should steadily fix the eye of faith on the blessed Jesus, my Mediator and Advocate at the right hand of the eternal Father. Lord, cause thy face to shine upon me, and make me always joyful in thy salvation ! A Temptation of Satan, Lord’s Day, 10. My bodily weakness has been such, for a few days past, as to prevent my officiating much in public ; however, I ventured to preach twice to-day, but-in the evening was so weak that I could scarce stand in the pulpit; but while preaching on the parable of the prodigal son, the Lord greatly 64 Character and Career of [1774. refreshed and strengthened me, though I went to bed very ill at night. Satan tempted me to-day to think much of my gifts. Alas! what poor creatures we are ; and to what dangers we are exposed! What are all our gifts, unless they answer some good purpose! Unless properly improved, they neither make us holier or happier. We have nothing but what we have received ; and, unless we are humble in the pos- session of them, they only make us more like devils, and more fit for hell. Heavy Work for a Sick Man. Thursday, 14. My mind is in peace. I have now been sick near ten months, and many days closely confined ; yet I have preached about three hundred times, and rode near two thousand miles in that time, though very frequently in a high fever. Here is no ease, worldly profit, or honor. What, then, but the desire of pleasing God and saving souls, could stimulate to such laborious and painful duties? O that my labor may not be in vain! that the Lord may give me to see fruit of these weak, but earnest endeavors, many days hence! After preaching this evening with some warmth of heart, I was very close and pointed in meeting the society. A Page of Personal History. Lord’s Day, 24.. Ended the parable of the prodigal son. Does it not appear from this parable that some who, comparatively speaking, have all their life-time endeavored to please God, and are entitled to all his purchased, communicative blessings, are nevertheless not favored with such rapturous sensations of divine 1774.| Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 65 joy as some others? I remember when I was a small boy and went to school I had serious thoughts, and a particular sense of the being of a God, and greatly feared both an oath and a lie. At twelve years of age the Spirit of God strove frequently and powerfully with me; but being deprived of proper means, and exposed to bad company, no effectual im- pressions were left on my mind. And, though fond of what some call innocent diversions, I abhorred fighting and quarreling : when any thing of this sort happened I always went home displeased. But I have been much grieved to think that so many Sab- baths were idly spent, which might have been better improved. However, wicked as my companions were, and fond as I was of play, I never imbibed their vices. When between thirteen and fourteen years of age, the Lord graciously visited my soul again. I then found myself more-inclined to obey, and carefully attended preaching in West Bromwick, so that I heard Stillingfleet, Bagnel, Rylan, Anderson, Mansfield, and Talbott, men who preached the truth. I then began to watch over my inward and outward conduct ; and having a desire to hear the Methodists, I went to Wednesbury, and heard Mr. F. and Mr. L, but did not understand them, though one of their subjects is fresh in my memory to this day. This was the first of my hearing the Methodists. After that another person went with me to hear them again: the text was, “ The time will come, when they will not endure sound doctrine.” My companion was cut to the heart, but I was unmoved. The next year Mr. M. came into those parts. I was then about fifteen ; and, young as I was, the word of God 5 66 Character and Career of [1774. soon made deep impressions on my heart, which brought me to Jesus Christ, who graciously justified my guilty soul through faith in his precious blood, and soon showed me the excellency and necessity of holiness. About sixteen I experienced a marvelous display of the grace of God, which some might think was full sanctification, and was indeed very happy, though in an ungodly family. At about seventeen I began to hold:some public meetings ; and between seventeen and eighteen began to exhort and preach. When about twenty-one I went through Staffordshire and Gloucestershire, in the place of a traveling preacher, and the next year through Bedfordshire, Sussex, etc. In 1769 I was appointed assistant in Northamptonshire, and the next year traveled in Wiltshire. September 3, 1771, I embarked for America, and for my own private satisfaction began to keep an imperfect journal. Descendants of the French Protestants, August 1..Some of my good friends accompanied me as far as Kingsbridge, on my way to New Rochelle. I visited my little flock. with some satis- faction. Here are some of the offspring of the French Protestants, who, on account of their religion, fled from Rochelle in France ; and God has mercifully remembered them unto the third and fourth genera- tion. Soul longing for Heaven. Rose early the next morning, but found myself weak both in body and mind. In this tabernacle I groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with the 1774.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 67 house which is from heaven. My soul longs to fly to God, that it may be ever with him. O happy day, that shall call a poor exile home to his Father’s ‘house! But I must check the impetuous current of desire, for it is written, “ He that believeth shall not make haste.” A Great Folly, IVednesday, 10. I was very low, but met my class, and preached in the evening. There appeared to be but little depth of religion in the class. It isa great folly to take people into society before they know what they are about. What some people take for religion and spiritual life is nothing but the power of the natural passions. It is true, real religion cannot exist without peace, and lové, and joy. But then, real religion is real holiness. And all sensa- tions without a strong disposition for holiness are but delusive. Berridge and Fletcher. Mr. L. waited on Mr. P. and told him he appeared to be more taken up in reading Mr. Berridge’s Chris- tian World Unmasked than the Bible. Mr. Berridge kept his room in a very gloomy state of mind about five years ago, and now he is come forth with his facetious pen to dictate to the Christian world. But Mr. Fletcher, in his Fifth Check, has fully answered all his witty arguments. Mr. Berridge was a good man, no doubt, but unfortunately drank deep into the principles of Antinomianism. Waiting to Hear what the Blunderer had to Say. Lord’s Day, 18. Losing some of my ideas in preaching, I was ashamed of myself, and pained to see 68 - Character and Career of [1774. the people waiting to hear what the blunderer had to say. May these things humble me, and show me where my great strength lieth! In meeting the society I urged the necessity of more private devotion, and of properly digesting what they hear. Set off the next morning for New Rochelle, and found E. D. in distress of soul. This is an agreeable family, and the children are both affectionate and obedient to their parents. I hope she and the rest of them will become true Christians, and be finally bound up in the bun- dle-of life. I- preached from 2 Tim. iv, 2, and many strangers were present. Satan is frequently assault- ing me with his temptations, but the Lord enables me to discover and resist his first attacks. Alarm of Fire—Reflections. At two o’clock in the night we were all alarmed by a fire which burned down a house in Peck Slip. What a resemblance of the general judgment! But if the cry of fire alarms us, how much more shall we be alarmed by the archangel’s trumpet! When all the ungodly shall have ten thousand times more cause to fear than the loss of houses, and goods, and life, how will they endure the cutting anguish? But they are after the flesh, therefore they mind the things of the flesh, and them only. Too Much for Both the People and Preacher. Friday, 14. My heart was much devoted to God. But having been here now four months, preaching or exhorting every day, and twice on the Lord’s day, besides society meetings, it seems to be too much for both the people and the preacher. We have now 1774.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 69 more unity in the society here than we have had for some time past. But we want more of the life and power of religion among us. Delightful Intercourse with God. Lord’s Day, 30. I kept close house till evening, And O what happiness did my soul enjoy with God! So open and delightful was the intercourse between God and my soul, that it gave me grief if any person came into my room to disturb my sweet communion with the blessed Father and the Son. When my work is done, may I enter into that fullness of joy which shall never be interrupted in the blissful realms above! In-the evening I ventured to preach from 1 Cor. i, 21, and spoke with great freedom and plainness, and felt better afterward-than could have been expected. Found myself something better on Monday, and met two classes. Asbury Meets with a Fellow-passenger. Monday, Nov. 28. After taking my leave of my good friends in New York the last evening from Phil. i, 27, Captain W. and myself set off this morning for Am- boy. We met with a person who came a passenger with us from England in the character of a gentleman, by the name of Wilson, but now he calls himself Clarkson, and since then he has called himself Lav- ingston. He was apprehended for passing a counter- feit bill, for which he was both imprisoned and whipped. When he saw me he knew me, and I knew him, but he was in such perplexity that he could eat no breakfast, and went off in the first wagon hecould meet with. To what fears and anxiety are poor 70 Character and Career of [1774. sinners exposed! And if the presence of a mortal man can strike such terror into the minds of guilty sinners, what must they feel when they stand without a covering before a heart-searching and righteous God. Pa] Asbury in Philadelphia, Friday, December 2. My soul enjoys great peace, but longs for more of God. We visited the prisoners again, and Captain W. enforced some very alarming truths upon them, though very little fruit of his labor could be seen. Mr. R. came to Burlington to-day, and desired me to go to Philadelphia. So, after preaching in the evening from Prov. xxviii, 13, I set off the next morning for the city, and found the society in the spirit of love. A Small Oongregation, Wednesday, 14. Mr. R. was sick, and Captain W. was busy, so I spent my time in study and devotion, and enjoyed a blessed sense of the Divine Presence. But what need can there be for two preachers here to preach three times a week to about sixty people? On Thursday night about sixty persons attended to hear Captain W. preach. This is indeed a very gloomy prospect. But my heart delighteth in God. He is the object of my hope, and I trust he will be my por- tion forever. At a Quaker Meeting, Lord’s Day, 15. I visited the Quaker meeting, but wondered to see so many sensible men sit to hear two or three old women talk. In the latter part of the day I was much indisposed, and kept at home. 1775.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 71 But the next morning I found myself something better, and earnestly longed for purity of heart, and perfect resignation to all the will of God. An Affiiction—Satan Busy. From the twenty-third of Fanuary till the first of February my affliction was So severe that I was not able to write. There were. several small ulcers on the inside of my throat, and the pain of the gather- ings was so severe that for two weeks I could not rest of nights. My friends were very kind, and, ex- pecting my death, they affectionately lamented over me. But on the 29th of January I was happily re- lieved by the discharge of near a pint of white matter. For awhile my mind was in great heaviness, but after some severe conflicts with the powers of dark- ness I was calmly resigned to the will of a wise and gracious God. O Lord, how wonderful are thy works! It is my desire to know the cause of this affliction, that, if it is in my power, I may remove it. Is it that I may know more of myself, and lie in the dust? Orfor my past unfaithfulness? But whatever may be the cause, I humbly hope that all those pain- ful dispensations will work together for my good. In the course of this affliction I found that when my spirit was broken, and brought to submit with cheer- fulness to the will of God, then the disorder abated, and I began to recover, though Satan was very busy, and, like Job’s impious wife, suggested to-my mind that I should curse God and die. Nevertheless, through grace, I am more than conqueror, and can give glory to God. 72 Character and Career of [1775. Asbury Il, but Employed in Reading, Thursday, Feb. 9. My body continues to recover. But I discover many weaknesses and failures in my inner man. When shall my soul be adorned as a bride fcr her bridegroom? When shall all within and all without be holiness to the Lord? Notwithstand- ing my illness, I have-read Neal’s History of the Puritans, consisting of four volumes, in about two months. Friday, 10. How great a blessing is health! though of late it is but seldom enjoyed by me. But, through mercy, my body now feels like being restored ; and I am afraid of being thereby too much elated. The Lord shows me the excellency of affliction, and enables me to exercise resignation in all conditions of life. I am now reading Mosheim’s Ecclesiastical History ; but as a writer he is too dry and specula- tive. Pantings of Heart to Labor for God. Tuesday, 14. My heart pants to labor for God ; to be once more employed in building up his spiritual house. O that he may strengthen me, set me to work, and greatly bless my poor endeavors! Preach- ing the glorious Gospel seems to be my proper em- ployment ; and when I am long detained from it I appear to be out of my element. But hope, a blessed hope, revives, that before long I shall be of some serv- ice in the Church of Christ. Ma.J New House and Old Friends in Baltimore, Thursday, March 2. We called at the house of Mr. J. D.,and rested about an hour. Sister D. has treated 1775.) Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 73 me with all the tenderness of a mother toward a son; and may He that will not forget a cup of water given in his name, abundantly reward her! We then pur- sued our journey to Baltimore, and my heart was greatly refreshed at the sight of my spiritual chil- dren and kind friends there, for whose welfare my soul had travailed both present and absent. The next day I had the pleasure of seeing our new house and my old friends, with some new ones added to their number. Here are all my own with increase. Asbury Preaches with great Pathos, Saturday, 18, Peace and pure desires filled my soul, and Christ was the object of my love. Glory be to thee, O Lord! The next day the Spirit of the Lord God was with me in preaching at the Point, and with great pathos I was enabled to deliver, the truth at night in town. Many of the audience felt the weight of God’s word. May they yield to the sacred touch, and be saved! Statistics of Circuits and Preachers, Tuesday, 28. Mr. O., the Dutch minister, accom- panied me to I. O.’s, where we had a blessed and refreshing season. The next day, at town, I met with Brother W. from Virginia, who gave me a great account of the work of God in those parts—five or six hundred souls justified by faith, and five or six cir- cuits formed ; so that we have now fourteen circuits in America, and about twenty-two preachers are required to supply them. Thus we see how Divine Providence makes way for the word of truth, and the Holy Spirit attends it. May it spread in power, and cover these lands! 74 Character and Career of [1775. Baltimore Ninety-six Years ago. Lora’s Day, 16. The Spirit of God attended our en- deavors both in town and Point. My heart was greatly enlarged in town especially. There is a very apparent alteration in this place. There is not so much drunkenness and neglect of the ordinances as in former times, and the people are much more in- clined to attend the places of public worship. So that, on the whole, I entertain a lively hope that the Lord will yet arise up for himself a large society in the town of Baltimore. On Monday my frame was weak and weary ; nevertheless I had to preach once in town, and once in the country, about seven miles off. Asbury, on his Way to Philadelphia, Thursday, 11, was appointed as a general fast. I preached on the occasion, and the Lord made it a solemn, heart-affecting time, so that we did not con- clude till about three o’clock. The next day I reached Bohemia ; but as it was late, some of the congrega- tion had departed. I therefore exhorted those that were left, and then proceeded to Newcastle. Lord’s Day, 14. Both last night and this day, I hope my skirts were clear of the blood of the people in this little town, whether they reject or accept of an offered salvation. After stopping to preach at Chester the next day, I then went on to Philadelphia. Va] Tn Norfolk, Monday, 22. Having preached the last evening with some sweet enlargement, I left Philadelphia 1775.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 75 this morning, and set off for Norfolk. Preached at night to a few people in Chester, and was conducted the next morning in a friend’s chaise to Cecil Court- house, where I embarked for Norfolk. Monday, 29. With a thankful heart I landed at Norfolk, after having been much tossed about by contrary winds in the bay. My accommodations on board the vessel were also very indifferent, so that it was a disagreeable and fatiguing passage ; but * 119 ured to them. They seemed kind and hunible; I pitied an old man, near seventy, from Devonshire. I went to bathe, called on the distressed people, prayed ; with them. This morning finished reading the book of Psalms, which has been my regular reading this week past; likewise the eleventh volume of Wes- ley’s Works, and part of the lives of those men of God, Haliburton, De Renty, and Walsh—one of the Church of Scotland, another from the Church of Rome, the latter a Methodist preacher ; but the work of God is one in all. To set aside a few particulars, how harmonious does the work of God appear in men of different nations and Churches! I have been in peace, but not so much given up to God. I was humbled and stirred up to be more heartily employed. When shall every thought, word, and action in me be holiness to the Lord? Asbury a Biblé Student. Friday, 23. Arose, as I commonly do, before five o'clock in the morning to study the Bible. I find none like it, and find it of more consequence to a preacher to know his Bible well than all the lan- guages or books in the world—for he is not to preach these, but the word of God. I preached at G. Brad- ley’s, in the woods, to about two hundred people, on Acts xiii, 26. Had considerable freedom. In the evening, at G. Moore’s, on Rev. xxi, 6-8. Great liberty ; the serious people much affected. An Old-fashioned Quarterly Meeting. Sunday, August 1. Rainy. I rode to church and heard an excellent sermon on Luke xiv, 22. At 120 Character and Career of [1779. three ‘o'clock I ‘preached in the square at Dover; many came to hear. I spoke on Ezek. xxxiii, 30, very plain and pointed: how it was taken I know not. Iam easy and clear in my own mind. Monday, 2, Our quarterly meeting began. I was detained by rain, but came in about one o'clock. Brother Cox preached on Psa, xlvili, 12-14. Tuesday, 3. In the morning the rain continues ; all things look gloomy. We appointed to meet at nine if clear; if not, at twelve o'clock. About twelve it cleared away without such visible tokens as sometimes appear. We went to the arbor; it covers three or four hundred people. It is possible we had six or seven hundred people each day, from Sussex, Som- erset, Queen Ann’s, Caroline, Kent, Newcastle, and Philadelphia. I preached on Psalm cxxvi, 3-6, and was greatly led out ; God was with us, “People Will and Will Not.” Sunday Morning, 15. Read the law delivered by Moses, and our Lord’s sermon on the mount ; preached at nine o'clock at Boyer’s, then went to the church at Dover, and preached in the woods at three o’clock on Acts xvii, 30. Iwas plain and faithful, but the peo- ple will and will not. Our own people do not keep so close to God as they ought ; this injures the work. Asbury an Early Riser, Thursday, 26. Rode to Wells’s and spoke close, but with little liberty, to a serious but not very lively peo- ple, on Matt. xi, 4-6. Brothers Wyatt and Allfree both spoke after me. This morning I ended the reading of my Bible through in about four months. It is hard work for me to find time for this, but all I 1779.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 121 read and write I owe to early rising. If I were not to rise always by five, and sometimes at four o'clock, I should have no time only to eat my breakfast, pray in the family, and get ready for my journey—as I must travel every day. He Prefers the Episcopal Mode of Ordination, Friday, 10. I have been employed in writing let- ters to the preachers. Lord, help me to speak and write to thy glory, and the good of the people I have the charge of! I began reading Comber on Ordina- tion. Much pomp was annexed to the clerical order, though plausible in its way. I believe the Episcopal mode of Ordination to be more proper than that of Presbyters ; but I wish there were primitive qualifica- tions in all who handle sacred things. Brother Hartley Determined to Marry. Tuesday, 14. | went to see Brother Hartley, under his confinement, who was in jail for preaching, and found him determined to marry. He thought it was his duty before God. I could only advise a delay till he was released from imprisonment. Persuaded him to give bail at court, if not released, as I thought he would have no trial. All that the opposers wanted, was to prevent his preaching in the county. We thought his imprisonment was illegal, as he had taken the oath in the Delaware State. “The Devil will Let us Read if we Will not Pray.” Monday, 20. I read thirteen chapters in Revelation, which was part of what should have been read yester- day, but I had not time. I read also about one hun- ‘i Character and Career of [e77e: ced ‘pagés in Comber on the Consecrating Bishops ; it is very well if properly attended to. Read fifty pages in Salmon’s Grammar. ‘It is plain to me the devil will let us read always if we will not pray: but prayer is the sword of the preacher, the life of the Christian, the terror of hell, and the devil’s plague. Not to be Converted by Thunder and Lightning. Friday, 24. Rode to Lewistown. Am ashamed be- fore God, under a sense of what he has done for me, and how unfaithful and unfruitful I am in every thing. I rode thirty miles, and on my way called to hear Mr. T., an Episcopal minister. He took care to tell the people they were not to be converted by thunder and lightning, like enthusiasts, to know the time and place. In short, I could not tell what he would be at; but he was legal to all intents and purposes. I went to Abraham Harris’s: the people were met, and Brother Allfree preached; afterward I delivered a discourse on Acts xiii, 26, to an attentive congrega- tion, and found my mind at liberty. A Curious Motive for Proclaiming a Fast, Tuesday, 28. I preached to about fifty or sixty peo- ple on Acts xxvi, 18. I know not when I was more searching, though but little moving among the peo- ple. I was told that Mr. W. proclaimed a fast, to let the people know what the Methodists were, and told them we could not be sent and ordained of God— that we must be sent of the devil. I doubt not but souls will be brought to God here. I rode to Shock- ley’s on Wednesday, and preached on Luke xiii, 24-26, to about fifty people; had great life. The work 1779.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 123 of God deepens here, though it is but low with some. I have rode about a hundred miles since this day week, and preached six times to not more than six hundred people. The Work Deepens and Spreads. Thursday, 7.1 prayed frequently, and read the first epistle to the Corinthians. I am kept watchful, and have some holy breathings after God. I received a letter from Brother Ruff: he says the work deep- ens in the Jerseys. It spreads in this (Delaware) State, alsoin Talbot, in Maryland. Difficulties of Supplying the Work. Friday, 8. Brother M’Clure came over. We settled a plan for the next half year, in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Jersey. Our difficulties are great’ we have nota sufficient number of proper preachers. Some who are gifted cannot go into all the States on account of the oaths ; others are under bail, and can- not move far. I have not spent this day as I ought ; perhaps not one in my whole life. I read eleven chapters in the second of Corinthians, in course. Brother Hartley being bailed from Talbot jail, after near three months’ imprisonment, came to take Kent in my absence. He preached on: “ Persecuted, but not forsaken ; cast down, but not destroyed.” An Aged Man Deaf to Scripture and- Reason. Monday, 11. I rose at five o’clock, and returned to my study. I want nothing but devotion to God, and to employ each moment for him. This day I preached at John Cannon’s, near the chapel, to about three 124 Character and Career of [1779. hundred people, on Acts xvii, 11. They did not un- derstand much, and felt less. I had a smart contest with a man upward of seventy years of age, deaf to Scripture, sense, or reason, yet one that has been sorely afflicted ; but age, like the word, if it does not soften, hardens. Ireturned to White Brown’s : afew met me; I prayed and gave an exhortation. God was with us. These I call my children. I find my soul feels the good effects of prayer. O! what can stand before faith and prayer ? A Funeral Sermon. Sunday, 24. Cloudy and rain. This day was ap- pointed for Mrs. Jessop’s funeral. There were about three hundred people ; we had the use of the barn. I spoke with great opening on Heb. ix, 27. Was much assisted in showing to my hearers, first, What it is to die; second, The judgment, with the certain con- sequences of both; third, The appointment for all men once to die; and controverted the argument against being saved from sin, drawn from death— that it is not a punishment to the righteous ; that their constitutions being subject to decay, makes it necessary, and in imitation of Christ, to suffer as he did in death, without sin. I went home with D. Polk. Quarterly Meeting in Edward White’s Barn, Monday, November 1. Our quarterly-meeting be- gan in Edward White’s barn. The three clergy- men attended with great friendship. I preached on Isaiah Ixvi, 6, 7, and had much liberty: there were about a thousand or twelve hundred people, and the 1779.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 125 greater part were serious. Brother Garrettson and Brother Ruff exhorted. Tuesday, 2. | preached again on 1 Thessalonians ii, 13, with more power and application to the people. We held our love-feast in the morning ; preaching at twelve o'clock; Brothers Hartley and M’Clure ex- horted. There were as many people, or rather more, than yesterday; the barn and the treading-floor filled. We had a close conversation with the clergy, who informed themselves of our rules, and were will- ing to give us all the assistance they could by word and deed. . Friday Asbury’s Fast-day. Friday, 5. Set apart for fasting and prayer. Though tempted at times, I shall not be overcome. I had rather die than sin against God. I read about one hundred octavo pages, then applied to the Bible for the exercises of the remaining part of the day. I began the reading of my Bible through again ; read a few chapters in Genesis, visited the sick in the neigh- borhood, but ate nothing till six o’clock at night ; had various struggles, but the grace of God is sufficient for me at all times. Glory be to Jesus! His Apportionment of Time, Wednesday, 17. I purpose to rise at four o'clock, as often as I can, and spend two hours in prayer and meditation, two hours in reading, and one in recreat- ing and conversation ; and in the evening, to take my room at eight, pray and meditate an hour, and go to bed at nine o’clock : all this I purpose to do when not traveling ; but to rise at four o’clock every morning. 126 Character and Career of [1779. Prefers Death to a God-forsaken People. Saturday, 27. Was kept in a calm after the devil had been tearing my soul like a lion; but he hath left me for a season. I looked into Rutherford’s Letters, and they were blessed to me : also looked into Doddridge’s Rise and Progress of Religion, and that was also blessed tome. My soul is waiting on the Lord for full Christian perfection. I poured out my soul to the Lord for this, and for my brethren in all parts of the world, that the power of religion may continue with us as a people. I tremblg to think of the cloud of the Divine presence departing from us. If this should be, I hope not to live to see it, and, with Mr. Wesley, desire that God may rather scat- ter the people to the ends of the earth. I had rather they should not be, than to be a dead society. Amen, says poor William Spencer. Brother Hartley Married. Tuesday, 28. A stormy, rainy day. Went to Lewis’s, but none came. I must spend the whole night in prayer, after the example of my Lord ; for temptation is totry me, perhaps for my good, as Ihave many things to lift me up. Brother Hartley.is now married, and begins to care for his wife. I have spent but little time to-day in reading or writing. There is a prospect of a work of religion in this State if the preachers are faithful, but I fear none more than myself; yet sure I am that I want to be the Lord’s. The hard, cold weather is broke at last. People suffer much more in winter by cold, and in summer by heat, here than in England. I find the care of a wife begins to hum- 1780.] Bishop Asbury Llustrated. 127 ble my young friend, and makes him very teachable. I have thought he always carried great sail; but he will have ballast now. Asbury's Estimate of Fletcher. Thursday, Fanuary 13, 1780. Finished reading the First Check. The style and spirit in which Mr. Fletch- er writes at once bespeak the scholar, the logician, and the divine. Cromwell a Prodigy, Tuesday, February 1. At nine o'clock we had a love-feast—a time of great tenderness. After some time Brother Cromwell spoke. His words went through me, as they have every time I have heard him. He is the only man I have heard in America with whose speaking I am never tired. I always ad- mire his unaffected simplicity. He is a prodigy—a man that cannot write or read well, yet, according to what I have heard, he is much like the English John | Brown, or the Irish John Smith, or Beveridge’s Shepherd’s Boy. I fear he will not stand or live long. The power of God attends him more or less in every place, and he hardly ever opens his mouth in vain. Some are generally cut to the heart, yet he himself is in the fire of temptation daily. Lord, keep him every moment! I preached on 1 Thess. i, 5, and was much led out ; there were about five hundred people. This meeting will be attended with a great blessing ; rich and poor approved the doctrine. Satan is a Liar, Christ is True, Wednesday, 16. A bright, blessed morning, but I am in heaviness through manifold temptations, but 128 Character and Career of [1780. trust the Lord will keep me. Have read in the in- tervals of these two days twelve of Mr. Wesley’s Sermons, and cannot read them without conviction and great instruction. God is with me: he is pre- paring me for great labors, and I hope yet to endure to the end ; but must be more sanctified : “Lord, hasten the hour, thy kingdom bring in, And give me the power to live without sin.” Keep me holy and constant in thy work, always in- dustrious, that Satan may have no fair occasion to tempt. I lectured at Edward White’s on John xiv, 19-21, and had great liberty, love, and life; and the people likewise. After all my trials, God blesses me. Satan is a liar,and Christ is true, and will never leave nor forsake me. The Nicolites, Sunday, 20. Was solemn in prayer. Spoke on James i, 22-24. I was assisted to be close, moving, and argumentative ; but have in general hard labor. Here they are an unsettled people, and weak of under- standing. Preached in the afternoon at the Widow Bready’s, from James i, 8: “A doubled-minded man is unstable in his ways.” This text was pressed up- on me to speak from while at Williams’s, and I could not get over it. In the afternoon I found there was a cause; the Nicolites had been working upon sev- eral of our friends, and had shook them with their craft. These are a people who sprung from one Nicols, a visionary but I hope a good man; he held Quaker principles, but the Friends would not receive him. A certain James Harris is at present their 1780.] Bishop Asbury MMlustrated. 129 leader ; they clothe in white, take every thing from nature, and condemn all other societies that do not conform to the outward. If a man were to speak like an archangel; if he sung, prayed, and wore a black or a colored coat, he would not be received by these people. They were almost asleep when the Methodists came, but now are awake and working with simple, awakened people. They love, like some other de- nominations, to fish in troubled water. They oppose family prayer as much as any sinners in the country ; and have much to say against our speakers. Profess what they will, there is nothing in names. Lawyer Basset. Sunday, 27. Spoke from Luke xi, 24-27. There were many people, and a good time. I showed how the devil is cast out, and how he returns ; then rode to Dover, and came in just as church was ended. I preached with great labor on Acts xxiv, 25. Some had eaten and drank more than enough, and were fit to go to sleep; but the greater part were attentive. But O! what a continual burden have I to come and preach here! Went home with Lawyer Basset, a very conversant and affectionate man, who, from his own acknowledgments, appears to be sick of sin. His wife is under great distress ; a gloom of dejection sits up- on her soul ; she prayeth much, and the enemy takes an advantage of her low state. Freeborn Garrettson in Jail, Thursday, 2. Heard of Mr. Peterkin’s death ; he died last night. I came to his house, and went to Thomas White’s. Find it is a fact that Brother Gar- rettson was put into jail last Sunday. : 9 130 Character and Career of [1780. Warburton against Wesley and Whitefield. Wednesday, 15. Brother Garrettson expects to come out of jail, by the favor of the Governor and Coun- cil of Maryland, in spite of his foes. So the Lord works for us. In Somerset they are using some of Bishop Warburton’s Works against Mr. Wesley and Mr. Whitefield. I was much blessed in speaking at Spencer Hitche’s on Titus iii, 2-8, to nearly two hundred serious people. Their prejudices wearoff. It is to be observed, bad as these people were, they never persecuted us, as they have done at some other places. It cannot be for our being falsely reported to be tories, for in Somerset some of our greatest enemies are of that stamp. Garrettson Released. Friday, 17. Rose at five o'clock, prayed, and read awhile in an old author, who warmly attacks Popery in its capital errors, and in a strong, argumentative manner ; but it is full of Greek and Latin quotations. I rode to Johnstown, and from thence to William Law’s; met Freeborn Garrettson, who came out of jail by order of the Governor and Council of Mary- land, who had sent to the Governor of Delaware to know if F. Garrettson were not a fugitive, and had received satisfactory information. Brother Garrett- son preached on Matthew xxv, 10: “And they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was closed.” One State too Small a Field for Asbury, Wednesday, 29. Spent what time I had to spare in transcribing from Robert Walker a part of one of his 1780. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 131 sermons to the preachers, and put it in my selec- tions. JI went to preach at Vincent Dorothy’s, and spoke on Luke xxiv, 25, 26. Made a faithful dis- charge of truth to the people; they were attentive. I have been very much exercised in mind; the time for leaving this place draws nigh. Never was con- finement in one State (Delaware) so trying to me. Lord, help me, I am weak! At night I went to Edward White’s and gave an exhortation; was greatly troubied in mind. Weather-bound, Friday, 31. Waked before three o'clock, though I did not go to bed till after ten o'clock ; was weather- bound, and read the second volume of Robertson’s History of Scotland. The fate of unfortunate Mary Queen of Scots was affecting, and the admired Queen Elizabeth does not appear to advantage in the Scotch history. Prayed an hour this morning, and retired twice; used abstinence, though not so severe as I commonly use on Fridays. “Report, say They, and We will Report It.” Monday, 3. Rose at five o'clock, spent some time in prayer, and my reading in course to the twenty- third Psalm. Preached at Thomas Jones’s to about sixty careless, ignorant people; had very little com- fort; spoke from 2 Tim. ii, 19. Read in the after- noon the Appendix to the History of Scotland. I am in heaviness through the deadness of the people, and the lies of the wicked about us—of which there appear to be enough; and it does seem now as if they could freely shed our blood. Lord, give me faith and patience! The present state of things is, 132 Character and Caveer of [1780. Report, say they, and we will report it; nothing can come amiss; all is fish that comes to the net. The wicked will say any thing; yes, all manner of evil against us. Asbury Prays for Good Weather. Friday, 7. About three days ago I was moved to pray for good weather, when I saw what a condition we should bein. There is a change in the weather. I have peace this morning, and my heart is lifted up to God in thankfulness. An appearance of good weather : blessed be God! though, when the weather was so uncomfortable, I was tempted to murmur. Lord, pardon me in this also! Surely, what the Lord does is right, whether he does it against a single person or to a whole nation. Preached at Callaway’s, on 2 Peter iii, 18, and was blessed. There were about fifty souls—an attentive, feeling people. After preaching, I rode thirty miles to the sea-side: there met Brother Garrettson, confident that God had, in a vision of the night, sanctified him. “John's People Fishing.” Monday, 10. I have peace of soul, but too much talk like trifling; the devil throws his firebrands, but grace is sufficient. I appointed Brother Wyatt to keep the ground against the Baptists, and to supply our places here instead of the traveling preachers that are going to conference; for John’s people intend to come fishing about when we are gone. We had a love-feast at eight o'clock ; many spoke in a very feeling manner. God was with us at eleven o'clock ; I preached on 2 Cor. iv, 12. Brother 1780.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 133 Cromwell and Brother Garrettson exhorted. The people were moved at what was said, though simple, and the same things he frequently says; but he is a man of God, and their spiritual father. Asbury Sets Off for Baltimore. Thursday, 20. Set off for Baltimore, and called at Mr. M’Gaw’s; we parted in much affection. Called at Mr. Basset’s, and had a warm conversation with Warner Mifflin. We prayed, and Mrs. Basset made a confession of finding peace. We rode to Solomon Symon’s. Md.] The Act against Non-Jurors, Monday, 24. We made a plan for the appointment of the preachers. Received three epistles from the Jerseys, soliciting three or four preachers, with good tidings of the work of God reviving in those parts. The petitioners I shall hear with respect. I am kept in peace. Praise the Lord, O my soul! Rode to Baltimore, and my friends were much rejoiced to see me; but silence broke my heart. The act against non-jurors reduced me to silence, because the oath of fidelity required by the act of the State of Maryland was preposterously rigid. I became a citizen of Delaware, and was regularly returned. I was at this time under recommendation of the Governor of Delaware as taxable. A Happy Thought, Tuesday, 25. Our conference met in peace and love. We settled all our northern stations ; then we began in much debate about the letter sent from Vir- 134 Character and Career of [1780. ginia. We first concluded to renounce them ; then I offered conditions of union: I. That they should ordain no more. II. That they should come no further than Hanover circuit. III. We would have our delegates in their con- ference. IV. That they should not presume to administer the ordinances where there is a decent Episcopal minister. V. To have a union conference. These would not do, as we found upon long debate, and we came back to our determinations, although it was like death to think of parting. At last a thought struck my mind: to propose a suspension of the ordinances for one year, and so cancel all our grievances and be one. It was agreed on both sides, and Philip Gatch and Reuben Ellis, who had been very stiff, came into it, and thought. it would do. Wednesday, 26. Preached on Acts vi, 4, with liberty. Thursday, 27. Read the advice to preachers. At twelve o'clock we had a melting love-feast ; preachers and people wept like children. At night I preached on Acts ii, 48, with great liberty, to about six hun- dred people. Joseph Cromwell and Freeborn Gar- rettson spoke, and at the recommendation of the conference William Watters too. These three volun- teered, and were to be my spokesmen. Myself and Brother Garrettson are going to the Virginia con- ference to bring about peace and union. I am kept in peace through much business; little sleep, cold ~ weather, and damp. Lord, return, and visit us! 1780. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 135 Vad The Virginia Conference—Reconciliation, Wednesday, 3. I rode to Georgetown, from thence to William Adams’s, in Virginia ; came in late and fatigued. Thursday, 4. Prepared some papers for Virginia conference. I go with a heavy heart, and fear the violence of a party of positive men. Lord, give me wisdom! I preached at the chapel in Fairfax, and met Mr. Griffith, an Episcopal minister, who was friendly, and we spent the afternoon together. Tuesday, 9. The conference was called. Brother Watters, Garrettson, and myself stood back, and being afterward joined by Brother Dromgoole, we were desired to come in, and I was permitted to speak. I read Mr. Wesley’s thoughts against a separation ; showed my private letters of instructions from Mr. Wesley; set before them the sentiments of the Delaware and Baltimore conferences ; read our epistles, and read my letter to Brother Gatch, and Dickins’s letter in answer. After some time spent this way, it was proposed to me, if I would get the circuits supplied, they would desist, but that I could not do. We went to preaching. I spoke on Ruth ii, 4, and spoke as though nothing had been the matter among the preachers or people, and we were greatly pleased and comforted; there was some moving among the people. In the afternoon we met; the preachers appeared to me to be further off; there had been, I thought, some talking out-of doors. When we—Asbury, Garrettson, Watters, and Dromgoole—could not come to a conclusion with them we withdrew, and left them to deliberate on the conditions I offered, which were to suspend the 136 Character and Career of [1780. measures they had taken for one year. After an hour’s conference we were called to receive their answer, which was, they could not submit to the terms of the union. I then prepared to leave the house, to go to a near neighbor’s to lodge, under the heaviest cloud I ever felt in America. O, what I felt! nor I alone, but the agents on both sides ; they wept like children, but kept their opinions. Wednesday, 10. I returned to take leave of con- ference and to go off immediately to the north, but found they were brought to an agreement while I had been praying, as with a broken heart, in the house we went to lodge at; and Brothers Watters and Garrettson had been praying up stairs where the conference sat. We heard what they had to say. Surely the hand of God has been greatly seen in all this. There might have been twenty promising preachers and three thousand people seriously af- fected by this separation ; but the Lord would not suffer this. We then had preaching by Brother Watters on “Come thou with us, and we will do thee good ;” afterward we had a love-feast; preachers and people wept, prayed, and talked, so that the spirit of dissension was powerfully weakened, and I hoped it would never take place again. Thursday, 11, -1 rode to Petersburg, thirty-five miles, through much fatigue and want of rest ; found myself indisposed with the headache. With difficulty I spoke at Brother Harding’s on “ We know that we are of God,” but was so unwell I could scarcely speak at all. Though having prevailed with God and man, I yet halt on my thigh. 1780.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 137 Asbury Wanted in Every Part of the Work, Wednesday, 17. Rode to the Widow Heath’s ; about seventy people were waiting for me; it was twenty miles, my horse lame, and the road rough. The enemy tried me just before I came to the house, as he generally does if the distance is more than I expect. I spoke on Luke xiii, 23, and was pointed, and had liberty ; God moved upon the hearts of the people. Met the society, about fifteen pious people ; most were blessed, and they seem all on stretch for holiness ; spent my afternoon in reading and study. There seems to be some call for me in every part of the work. I have traveled at this time from north to south to keep peace and union ; and O if a rent and separation had taken place, what work, what hurt to thousands of souls! It is now stopped, and if it had not, it might have been my fault; it may have been my fault that it took place, but I felt a timidity that I could not get over. Preachers and people making the trial, they see the consequences, and I hope will do so no more. They have suffered for their forwardness. May we all be more prudent ! “Always On the Wing.” Sunday, 21. 1 have peace’ of mind, but fear we shall have few hearers to-day. It is not far from the rich and great upon James River. I read and tran- scribed some of Potter's Church Government, till ten o'clock; was assisted in speaking to about two hundred people, who appeared very ignorant and unfeeling, After awhile I gave them another sermon, not very acceptable to me, and perhaps less so to them: however, I.am clear—they are warned.’ We 138 Character and Career of [1780. then set out at four o'clock, rode sixteen miles over high hills and deep valleys in the dark, but came safe; went to bed at eleven o'clock, and was up at five o'clock. It is well if this will do long; I am always on the wing, but it is for God. Great Commotion, Tuesday, 30. I rose at five o’clock, with peace of mind, and was employed in writing letters to. my friends in. the Peninsula) Then rode to George Smith’s, preached on 1 Peter iv, 17, to about sixty people ; spent some time in speaking ; but had not as much liberty as at some other times. Spoke to the class; the people spoke afterward of the good- ness of God. Afterward I rode to Bushell’s ; some were gone home for fear of the horse-press. Captain Bushell is dead, and the work dies with him. Before I had done prayer there came up soldiers and horses ; the people were affrighted, but there was no need. The officers came in, and sat down ; one soon tired, the other could not stay it out. I spoke from 1 Peter v, 10, and addressed myself according to my audience; the people were greatly alarmed. I was tempted to go back to the north, there is such a com- motion in the country. The troops were going to Camden, South Carolina. But I must go on and not faint in the way. I have been very well off, but am following trouble. What matters it where I go, what comes upon me, if God is with me; or where I live or where I die, if holy and ready ! Slavery—A Petition Answered. Sunday, 4. 1 rode twelve miles to Mrs. Merritt’s meeting-house ; there were about three hundred peo- 1780.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 139 ple, white and black. Spoke on Rom. ii, 7-9; after sermon I spoke to the society, some of them are happy souls ; but there is a slackness in meeting: the rules of the society have not been kept up here. I spoke to some select friends about slave-keeping, but they could not bear it. This I know, God will plead the cause of the oppressed, though it gives offense to say so here. O Lord, banish the infernal spirit of slavery from thy dear Zion ! N. GJ John Dickins, Sunday, 18. I rode fifteen miles to Brother Bus- tion’s, and preached to about five hundred people ; was much led out on Isaiah lv, 6, 7. The people were solemnly attentive. I was tempted to think I had done well; but I opposed the devil and over- came him. Brother Dickins spoke on charity very sensibly, but his voice is gone ; he reasons too much: is a man of great piety, great skill in learning, drinks in Greek and Latin swiftly, yet prays much, and walks close with God. He is a gloomy countryman of mine, and very diffident of himself. My health is re- covered; thank the Lord. Thus he makes my strength sufficient for my day of glory to God! Kingswood School in America, Monday, 19. Rose about five o'clock, was a little disturbed in my rest with company. Brother Dick- ins drew the subscription for a Kingswood school in America; this was what came out a college in the subscription printed by Dr. Coke. Gabriel Long and Brother Bustion were the “first subscribers, which I hope will be for the glory of God and good of thou- sands. 140 Character and Career of [1780. Asbury Fording Creeks and Sleeping on the Floor, Monday, 3. Very rainy night, with thunder and light- ning. I am grieved to see slavery, and the manner of keeping these poor people. I set out for Tar River. After riding about five miles I was told I could not cross Bear swamp; but by the guidance of a Baptist friend, came through that and two very deep creeks. Afterward I left my guide; we had traveled a few miles together, and talked in a friendly manner. Rode three miles further, and was stopped by what was called Bens Creek ; the bridge was gone, and a man said it was ten feet deep. I then made for Fal- com’s bridge, on little Fishing Creek, but the low ground was covered, and no bridge to be seen. Lodged at Mr. Falcom’s; was known, and kindly entertained. I labored to make Mrs. Falcom sensi- ble of her danger, and hope not in vain; prayed evening and morning in the family. Tuesday, 4. 1 rode by Miller's cross-roads to Great Fishing Creek, a rough way—but got safe along, and was comforted in mind ; crossed Great Fishing Creek ; stopped at Sandy Creek, where I found a kind old man, Brother Howell ; lodged with him, and spent my time peaceably. Wednesday, 5. Set out to Green Hills; but with difficulty I got along. But this was not all, for in going the distance of four miles I rode eight, and was tried to purpose. On account of the waters, I have ridden about thirty miles out of my way, and am now twenty-six miles from the place of preaching to-mor- row. Have been happy till to-day; but when lost, I began to feel like fretting against persons and things. 1780.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. I4I O, my God, pardon me in this! I was very kindly entertained, and blessed with fellowship at Green Hills ; but never met with so many difficulties as I have met with in this circuit. I hope for the greater blessings ; am kept by grace, and enjoy health in this hot weather, though so far to the south; have peace of soul, bless the Lord! Thursday, ©. Rode twenty-six miles; exceeding hot, and my horse suffered greatly. When I came to the place about seventy people were met singing and praying. I spoke on Heb. iv, 13-16; had not much strength of soul or body. The people appeared inattentive and their minds full of the present troubles. : Friday, 7. A day of fasting, till near three o’clock. I was weak, and lodging on the floor was exceedingly uncomfortable. A Question Answered, Sunday, 16. I rose unwell, and somewhat dejected. Lord, keep me from the power of wicked men, devils, and sin! Sometimes I think, will that Infinite Being we call God, who commands kingdoms, continents, and worlds, take careof such aworm as I? Then I con- sider he is INFINITE, and cannot be hurried so as to forget any person. He can keep meas securely as if there were none but myself in the world. Lord, give me faith to trust in thee every moment, even in my greatest dangers! I spoke on 2 Thess. i, 6-9. I had great light ; but the people seemed hardened. I fear judgment will overtake them before they will be awakened. I never felt more engaged, and hardly a person moved. I read my select Scriptures, and 142 Character and Career of [1780. had my soul much taken up with God ; the few peo- ple in society seemed tender at Brother Hartfield’s. Over Rocks, Hills, Creeks, and Pathless Woods. Saturday, 22. We set out for Crump’s, over rocks, hills, creeks, and pathless woods and low land; and myself in the carriage. The young man with me was heartless before we had traveled a mile; but when he saw how I could bush it, and sometimes force my way through a thicket, and make the young saplings bend before me and twist and turn out of the way, or path, for there was no proper road, he took courage. With great difficulty we came in about two o'clock, after traveling eight or nine hours, the people looking almost as wild as the deer in the woods. I preached on Titus ii, 10-12. Chatham County. Monday, 24. Cool, like the fall. Iam kept in peace. Rose with a sense of God’s presence ; have only time to pray and write my journal. Always upon the wing, as the rides are so long, and bad roads; it takes me many hours, as in general I walk my horse. Icrossed Rocky River about ten miles from Haw River. It was rocky, sure enough ; it is in Chatham county, North Carolina. I can see little else but cabins in these parts, built with poles: and such a country as no man ever saw for a carriage. I narrowly escaped being overset ; was much affrighted, but Providence keeps me, and I trust will. I crossed Deep River in a flat-boat, and the poor ferry-man sinner swore be- cause IJ had not a silver shilling to give him. I rode to friend Hinton’s, borrowed a saddle, and rode near six miles to get three, as we were lost. When we came 1780.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 143 to the place there were about sixty people. I was at some loss whom to preach to, saints or sinners; but found sinners as unfeeling as those who are out of the reach of mercy. I spoke on 1 Peter v, 9-12. I was glad to get away, for some were drunk, and had their guns in meeting. I expect to see some of these people again, and believe they will be humbled in time, but I fear not by the Gospel, which they have slighted, but by judgments. We came back and found a serious family ; was blessed in a family meeting. The Lord filled our hearts with his love. I had a fever in the night; rose refreshed in the morning. Too Lazy to Ride a Circuit. Thursday, 10. I rode for the State of Virginia. We were lost, stopped at Dickinson’s, and took dinner ; then rode to Sylvester Adams’s, several creeks to cross, and bad.roads to travel. Edward Bailey led my horse down a steep hill, and the carriage overset ; the horse struggled, but kept his feet; one shaft broke, which we strapped up, and rode on near thir- ty miles. We found the Rawlinses there. Abraham is incurable ; I have a mind to try Isaac again, having a hope that he is humbled. Lord, direct me what to do in this matter. I made proposals to him, but he rejected them. I fear he is also incurable, being too lazy to ride a circuit. Isaac Rawlins Brought to Terms, Monday, 14. 1 brought Isaac Rawlins to some ac- knowledgment, and appointed him to ride Pittsylva- nia, New Hope, and Tar River till conference. His greatest admirers saw his obstinacy, and would-have 144 Character and Career of ° [1780. disowned him if he had not submitted ; for they be- gan to tire with his lounging about. I hope this will be a warning to him, and will make him take more care, and submit to’order. I preached at Colonel Wil- son’s to about two hundred people. I spoke on Heb. xii, I-4. “Cromwell is the Man.” Thursday, 17. I stopped at friend Baker’s, being very pnwell. Brother Bailey went to a chapel ten miles from this. I want to write and to recover strength or I shall run myself down. I am kept in peace, humility, and watchfulness. I have been un- well for this week past. This has made it an addi- tional burden to travel, and the sun is so violent that it appears to me I could not stand it, were it not for the top-carriage. I thought it would be well for me to have a person with me always, and I think Crom- well is the man. If I should preach a systematical, dry sermon, he would pay the sinners off. I was kept in peace, my body some little recruited. I rested comfortably, retired often to prayer, that God would go with me to the next circuit. I suppose, upon a calculation, I have ridden better than a thou- sand miles since February last, when I was at quarterly meeting at the sea-side in Delaware. A Running Life, Friday, 25. I rode to Page Mann’s, sixteen miles ; was much assisted in speaking on Heb. iv, 11-13, to about three hundred people, who appeared serious and somewhat moved. Saturday, 26. Rode to Robinson’s, a smith, who braced up my carriage. We rode on to Little-Falling 1780.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 145 River, and then to the New Store, where was a com- pany stationed. The captain wanted our certificates. Bailey disputed with him, I showed him mine. We rode on to Great-Falling River. I stopped at one Vincent Glass’s; the man was kind, our entertain- ment plain. I did not sleep well. We talked with our host ; he had catched some notions from the Bap- tists and Presbyterians. Though he was going another way, he changed his purpose and came with us; we rode twelve miles, over hills and creeks, and through woods. About eleven o’clock I spoke on Isaiah xxxv, 6, 7, to about five hundred people, wildenough. This is arunning life. The devil roars, and men threaten ; but God is with me. I labored to come at the con- sciences of the people but could not. I keep my health to a wonder ; but I want time for. retirement. We had near thirty miles from Page Mann’s to Sta- ples’s. I can hardly get time and place to note down any thing. Ispent some time at the quarterly meet- ing in the barn, alone. O how good did that feel! A Retrospect. Sunday, 3. This day nine years past I sailed from Bristol, Old England. Ah! what troubles have I passed through! What sickness! What tempta- tions! But I think, though I am grown more aged, I have a better constitution, and more gifts ; and I think much more grace. I can bear disappointments and contradiction with greater ease. Trials are be- fore me, very great ones, but God hath helped me hitherto. I can with greater confidence trust him! And, indeed, what have any of us to trust in for futurity except the living God? 10 146 Character and Career of [1780. Val A Sensible View. Friday, 8. My mind is calm; I have had close communion with God. My hours of retirement have been kept. When I can get a barn or a preaching- house I am happy. Though I have talked much, I have kept my temper. I feel nothing but love; and no contradiction I meet with makes me angry. I have a natural affection for my own countrymen ; yet I can hear them called cruel people, and calmly listen to threatenings of slaughter against them. Were a people spreading desolation with fire and sword in England, I, as an inhabitant, whether the invaders were right or wrong, would probably feel as the Americans now do, and use the same harsh expres- sions : thus I reason, and cannot therefore condemn —but the grace of God is sufficient to set us all above the world, and all things here. <4 Intermittent Fever, Sunday, 10. At Bushell’s chapel I spoke to about four hundred people on the parable of the sower ; and although my fever came on before I began, I was greatly assisted. I spoke long, and was ready to weep over them. After the meeting I rode seven- teen miles, and came to Captain Smith’s. I have traveled since Friday morning about sixty miles. I” went to bed, and had a strong fever on me all night ; it was an intermittent. Jonday, very weak, but happy! Received letters from Jesse Hollingsworth, from White, and from Peddicord. 1780.] Bishop Asbury lMlustrated. 147 Asbury Writes to Mr, Wesley—His Answer. Saturday, 16. Wrote to Mr. Wesley, at the desire of the Virginia conference, who had consented to suspend the administration of the ordinances for one year. The answer to this letter was made through Dr. Coke, Richard Whatcoat, and Thomas Vasey in 1784, who all came to America properly ordained. And here I will take occasion to correct a mistake into which Dr. Whitehead has fallen in his Life of Mr. Wesley. It is in that work stated, that had Mr. Wesley obtained the consent of the American preach- ers and people, he might have sent ministers regu- larly ordained to the society in that part of the world. The truth is, that the American Methodists, both ministers and people, wished to have such ministers among them that they might partake, like other Christian societies, of the ordinances of the Church of God, and when ministers did thus come, they re- ceived them generally and joyfully. I will further presume that Mr. Wesley received few letters from America in which that subject was not pressed upon him. I want to be more devoted. I had liberty in speaking. God was with us. I am but feeble in body, and not so fervent in spirit as I desire to be. His Traveling Companion Sick, Friday, 6. We went forward to the Fork Church, seven miles distant. Brother Bailey was taken sick upon the road. I left him about two miles below the church, went on and preached on Rom. viii. Return- ing to Brother B., I found him very ill with a fever. He rode twelve miles in the carriage to Brother Hop- kins’s in Amherst. Riding on horseback fatigued me. 148 Character and Career of [1 780. Sunday, 8. Rode thirteen miles to the Sugar Loaf Mountains. Edward Bailey, after riding a few miles, was taken with a second fit, and very ill; I left him. in the carriage and proceeded on. About five hun- dred people had assembled, to whom I spoke on 2 Cor. iv, 2-4. Returning after preaching to Brother Bailey, I found him with all the symptoms of a severe bilious attack, and like a dead man in appearance. He passed the night in great distress—prayer was made for him; through mercy his fit went off. I took Brother Bailey to help me; his affliction has given me much trouble. Greatly distressed for him as I have been, I am much consoled in being able to leave him with Doctor Hopkins, who is a kind, skill- ful, sensible man. Melancholy Tidings, Tuesday, 17. Rode ten miles; preached at Stock- dale’s to about thirty people. Rode on fifteen miles, put in at Ragland’s; a Baptist spoke to the family. Next morning rode eighteen miles to the’ Broken Backed church; got in a little after twelve o'clock. Preached on Zeph.i, 12. Here I received the melan- choly tidings of the death of my companion and friend, Edward Bailey. It was very distressing to me; riding together so long had created a great sym- pathy between us. He died on Tuesday last about five o'clock, in full confidence. He spoke to the last, and bore testimony to the goodness of God. He would sometimes get upon his knees in the bed, weak as he was, and pray. It troubles me to reflect that he was neglected so long, yet it was unavoidable. The doctor supposed a mortification took place in his bowels, inflamed by the corrosive nature of the bile. 1780. | Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 149 It was a sorrowful quarterly meeting to me. Few people ; they lifeless, and my dear friend dead! I spoke to the preachers about a union. Asbury Mourns the Death of his Friend. Saturday, 21. I set out as soon as it was light, and came about three o’clock to the Widow Granger's and Ground Squirrel Bridge, a distance of forty miles. I travel very heavily now. I have lost my poor Bailey, so suddenly called away! Lord, humble me, and make me more watchful! He desired me to see into his temporal matters, for his poor sister, and wife and children. I have reason to praise God that I have health under such fatigue. I said I should have trouble before I went into Fluvanna, yet I little thought my friend would die there. If my affections were naturally tender, I should be bathed in tears, for I have great cause to weep; but the Lord hath ordered it. It may be that I suffer more than those who weep away distress. I was ready to say, “None shall ride with me hereafter.” Satan works upon my gloomy mind greatly. I was comforted in meeting B., R. B., and T. C.; a solemn meeting. We have lost three useful preachers within one year. The Lord cuts Israel short. Primitive Way of Traveling, Friday, 27. Rode on to Fredericksburg ; my horse failed through fatigue, bad feed, and not enough of it. I stopped and fed by the way. Mistaking my road, I met a serious man, and spoke to him about his soul. It may be thé losing my way was ordered by Providence. Came to Garratt’s, at Stafford Court- 150 Character and Career of [1780. house: fell in with a Presbyterian, an acquaintance of Mr. Pillmoor; I spoke freely to him, and had prayer. Two young men from Winchester joined us. Saturday morning, after paying eight Continental dollars for my horse, and my supper and bed, I rode on to Dumfries, about twelve miles. Rode on four . miles further, fed my horse, and got a cup of boiled milk for myself. Here my paper-money failed, and I was obliged to pay in silver. Rode on, carrying my. corn, and fed upon the road. Missing my way to William Adams’s, when on the south side of Col- chester, I went down the State road, within two miles of Alexandria, making my journey near fifty miles. My horse was much fatigued, and myself in a fever with hard riding. I was blessed in the family I put up with. O, how sweet is rest! But O for eternal rest ! Md.) At Mr. Gough's once More, Monday, 30. Crossed Georgetown ferry ; stopped at Baggarley’s. Rode on in great peace, and came to John Worthington’s about five o’clock, after a ride of thirty miles. I was kindly entertained. I called at Mr. Thomas Dorsey’s; kind people. I breakfasted with them. I put forward to Baltimore. When within about two miles there came up an autumnal storm ; there was fear of the trees falling, and that the wind would overset the carriage. I came in safe, stopped an hour, and proceeded on to Mr. Gough’s, and ar- rived between eight and nine o'clock. There has been some snow to-day, and the night is cold. I have spent my stock of money, three guineas and two half johannas, given me by Mr. Gough and Mrs. Chamier. Two guineas and a half and a half- 1780. | Bishop Asbury [llustrated. I51 crown went in Virginia. Rode on about twelve miles to dinner, eight miles afterward to Swan Creek, being kept in peace. Del] Quarterly Meeting at Dover. friday, 3. Set off for my favorite Dover. Sunday, 5. We had between one and two thousand people. Our house, forty-two by forty-eight, was crowded above and below, and numbers still remained outside. Our love-feast lasted about two hours ; some spoke of the sanctifying grace of God. I preached on John iii, 16-18 ; a heavy house to preach in. Brothers Peddicord and Cromwell exhorted. A Record of Six Months. Tuesday, 7. | was closely engaged in reading a volume of Mr. Wesley’s Journal of above three hun- dred pages; ended it on Wednesday morning. I felt dejection of spirits for want of public exercise. I have had so much of this, that within this six months I have traveled, according to my computation, two thousand six hundred and seventy-one miles, yet am uneasy when still. I proposed meeting the children when I came again. I appointed a place for them to sit, and desired the parents to send a note with each, letting me know the temper and those vices to which the child might be most subject. I long to spend a few minutes every hour in prayer. I see great need of living near to God—the people are so affectionate. Lord, humble me! Asbury’s Work Laid Out, Friday, 17. A day of fasting. We all parted after much business. S. Roe went to Sussex; the two 152 Character and Career of [178o. Cromwells for the circuit, (Kent, in Delaware ;) Ped- dicord to Dorset; myself to go through Kent and Sussex—then to the Jerseys, Philadelphia, and Chester. I wrote to Watters, Dudley, and Debrular. Friday, set out for Murder-Kill, stopping at Combs’s that night. I spoke freely to the man upon his mysticism, and to the family about their souls. Fervent Prayer for the Work of God. Friday, 8. Was under dejection. Read thirty chapters of Isaiah. Rode to Dill’s ; had about forty people ; was much led to speak to the poor. Fasted, and intended to spend a great part of the night in prayer, but I felt weak through want ofrest. I spent better than an hour in fervent prayer and was much blessed, having my soul divinely filled with love when I lay down. Rose about five o’clock in better health ; passed some time in fervent prayer for the whole work—the preachers and people. Thomas Haskins is a young man of learning, and has been studying the law ; like William Spencer, he has given it up for grace and divinity. Glory be to God! I believe the Lord has called Thomas Haskins for a preacher ; he was convinced in Dover some months ago. Bleeding and Blistering. Saturday, 30. While I was preaching I was seized with -a putrid sore throat; the attack was violent. Sabbath Day I took physic, and applied two blisters that drew kindly ; afterward put one on the back of my neck, and another behind the ear; had some blood taken from the arm, and some from the tongue, and it pleased kind Providence to relieve me sooner 1781.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 153 than I expected. I desire to give thanks to God for patience and resignation. Fanuary 1-4,1781. Pain! pain! pain! 52%. Found myself considerably amended, so that I sat up and did a little business. The Wilds and Swamps of Delaware, Lord’s Day, 14. Being rainy, we had only about one hundred and twenty serious people at the place appointed. The people here are much more gentle than they were a twelvemonth past. We have a society of more than twenty members, some of whom have found the Lord; but I think, for ignorance of God and religion, the wilds and swamps of Delaware exceed most parts of America with which I have had any acquaintance. However, God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. Bad Habits Soon Learned. Monday, 22. On my way to P.’s I came on a race-ground, where the sons of Belial had been prac- ticing my horse. He ran away with me when he came to the end of the paths, but stopped, and I received no harm. I lifted my heart to God, and by the mercy of the Lord he stopped near a point of woods, which, had he entered, I might probably have lost’ my life. My heart was deeply humbled before the Lord, who preserved me from such imminent danger. Asbury True to his Colors, Sunday, February 4. I preached, and had some of the Council and members of the Assembly to hear me. I spoke plainly; intending my discourse as a vindication of the doctrine of the Methodists. 154 Character and Career of [1781. Monday, 5..On my way to quarterly meeting, held at the Valley preaching-house, I called on his Excellency, Governor Rodney, to sign my certificate, - which he did with great readiness and politeness. Pa,] In Philadelphia, Saturday, 10. My soul enjoys peace, and I rejoice to hear that the work of God is deepening and widening in the Jerseys. My old friends here in Philadelphia appear loving td me, but they are not united as they ought to be. Tuesday, 13. After casting in my mite, by saying and doing what I could in Philadelphia, I left my kind friends and set off for New Jersey. Nd] Benjamin Abbott. Wednesday, 14. I met with and heard B. Abbott. His words came with great power. Over in Chester, he informs me, twenty were renewed in love, and eight on this side; the people fall to the ground under him, and sink into a passive state, helpless, stiff, motionless. He tried to attach himself to other sects, but had such struggles within that he was forced back—the Lord would not let him be any thing but a Methodist. Such is hisaccount. Heisa man of uncommon zeal, and (although his language has somewhat of incorrectness) of good utterance. Here, I find, remains the fruit of the labors of that (now) miserable man, A. Whitworth. How awful the thought, that God should own a man and make him a blessing to many souls, and then lay him aside like a broken instrument! Yet so it .was, because of his sin. May others take warning by his fall ! 1781.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 155 Asbwy a Rapid Reader, Friday, March 2. My soul enjoys peace, and I have a little respite from the haste I have been in for some. time past ; nevertheless, I have read the first and second volumes of Rollin’s Ancient History (con- taining about three hundred pages each) in about two weeks. We may justly admire the policy and the temperance of the Persians ; and it is very satis- factory to find a more particular account corroborat- ing the Scripture history of the fulfillment of the prophecies concerning that great man Cyrus, called of God. 7 Pa,] Again in Philadelphia, Saturday, 3. Rode to Philadelphia, where I preached but twice. I met the society, which was made a bless- ing to some, and I am persuaded that my stay would be a means of the prosperity of the society here ; but it is possible I may be more useful where I am going. Tuesday, 6. Read the fourth volume of Rollin’s Ancient History. It contains the memorable life of Socrates, who was certainly a wise man; but, as the worthy historian remarks, there were many blemishes in his character. Del.] Review of his Travels, Saturday, 24. 1 was much led out in speaking of Peter’s fall at my favorite place. Iam greatly com- forted with the good news of Zion’s prosperity. Upon a review of my travels I find that, from the first of last May to this present date, I have traveled nearly or quite four thousand miles, 156 Character and Career of [1781. Twenty Preachers at Oonference., Saturday, April 14. Our quarterly meeting began at the Forest chapel, the congregation was large. I spoke first, and was followed by Brothers C., R. C., and L.; the people were quickened and appeared much alive to God. The next day, being Easter Sunday, our love-feast began at nine, and public preaching at eleven o'clock. After meeting we rode about twenty miles to Brother White’s, wherg about twenty preach- ers met together to hold a conference. Thence I at- tended Kent quarterly meeting, on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Ma.] Harmony of the Preachers, Friday, 20. Crossed the Chesapeake, and came to Mr. Gough’s. Saturday I rode to Baltimore, and preached on the Sabbath day. Tuesday, 24. Our conference began in Baltimore, where several of the preachers attended from Vir- ginia and North Carolina. All but one agreed to return to the old plan, and give up the administration of the ordinances. Our troubles now seem over from that quarter, and there appears to be a considerable change in the preachers from North to South. All was conducted in peace and love. Harry. the Black Man, Sunday, 13. Preached at the chapel; afterward Harry, a black man, spoke on the barren fig-tree. This circumstance was new, and the white people looked on with attention. Val Wicked Whisky Drinkers Sunday, Fune 10. I preached at eleven o'clock to about two hundred people with a degree of freedom. I 1781.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 157 then rode to R. Williams’s. On my way I had a view of a hanging rock that appears like a castle wall, about three hundred feet high, and looks as if it had been built with square slate stones, At first glancea trav- eler would be ready to fear it would fall on him. I had about three hundred people ; but there were so many wicked: whisky drinkers, who brought with them so much of the power of the devil, that I had but little satisfaction in preaching. Wonderful Caves. Thursday, 21. Last evening I rode a mile and a half to see some of the greatest natural curiosities my eyes ever beheld: they were two caves, about two hundred yards from each other. Their en- trances were, as in similar cases, narrow and descend- ing, gradually widening toward the interior, and opening into lofty chambers, supported, to appearance, by basaltic pillars. In one of these I sung, ** Still out of the deepest abyss.” The sound was wonderful. There were stalactites, resembling the pipes of an organ, which, when our old guide, Father Ellsworth, struck with a stick, emitted a melodious sound, with variations according to their size; walls, like our old churches; resem- blances to the towers adjoining their belfries ; and the natural gallery, which we ascended with difficulty. All to me was new, solemn, and awfully grand. There were parts which we did not explore, so deep, so damp, and near night. I came away filled with won- der, with humble praise, and adoration. 158 Character and Career of [1781. Sleeping Among the Rocks, Monday, Fuly 16. We set out through the mount- ains for quarterly meeting. It was a very warm day, and part of our company stopped after thirty miles’ travel- ing. Brother William Partridge and myself kept on until night overtook us in the mountain, among rocks, and woods, and dangers on all sides surrounding us. We concluded it most safe to secure our horses and quietly await the return of day ; so we lay down and slept among the rocks, although much annoyed by the gnats. -Next day I met with several preachers, with whom I spent some time in conversation about the work of God. At twelve o'clock the people at Perrill’s met, and we all exhorted. Friday, 20. 1 had some liberty on 2 Cor. vi, 2. I have been obliged to sleep on the floor every night since I slept in the mountains. Yesterday I rode twenty-seven miles, and to-day thirty. Ma] Asbury Sick—Bevere Treatment, Sunday, August 12. Wasadamp, unwholesome day. At Micah Dorsey’s, Elkridge, I was seized with all the symptoms of an inflammatory sore throat. I bled, took medicine, and applied blisters, but the disease was too violent to yield at once. Very high fever fol- lowed, and I suffered more than I can well express. I made use of poultice with better success; the gathering broke, and I found some relief. I praise God that his providence cast my lot among so kind a people. Food, lodging, a physician, (Dr.. Pew,) and whatever else was necessary, was not withheld. I am sensible I am not so humble as J should be, and it may be I am in danger of forming improper esti- 1781.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 159 mates of my importance among preachers and _people. Were this disposition indulged, God might justly cut me off. Persecution—Spiritual Prosperity. Monday, Septtmber 10. I learn that the Lord is re- viving his work on the Eastern Shore, more or less, in every circuit. The wicked persecute, and Satan rages in Dorset, but God will carry on his own work and maintain his own cause. Asbury soon Tires of the City. Friday, 12. Came to Philadelphia; found the people serious, loving, and lively. The society here appears to be in a better state than they have been in since the British army was here. Sunday, 14. I had some comfortable sensations in speaking on John iii, 14. Our congregations are large, and I hope for a revival of the work among us. I heard two good sermons at St. George’s. I gave them a plain discourse at night at St. George’s, on 1 John i, 8, 9. Tuesday, 16. I enjoy peace, but I soon grow tired of the city. There is a deepening of the work in some souls, but I fear the religion of others evapo- rates in talk. Hany in Danger. Saturday, 27. My intervals of time are employed in marking Baxter's Cure for Church Divisions for abridgment, which may some day see the light. My soul is drawn out to God to know whether I ought to go to Virginia this winter, in order, if pos- sible, to prevent the spreading of the fire of division. I do not look for impulses or revelations. The voice 160 Character and Career of [1781. of my brethren and concurrent circumstances will determine me in this matter. Harry seems to be unwilling to go with me. I fear his speaking so much to white people in the city has been, or will be, injurious. He has been flattered, and may be ruined. Del.) A Thousand at Quarterly Meeting. Saturday, November 3. We had twelve preachers and about one thousand people at quarterly meeting. This evening our quarterly-meeting conference begun. We scrutinized and dealt with fidelity one with the other. Nothing would satisfy the preachers but my consenting to go to Virginia. There appear, at times, to be great movings among the people, but there seems to be a slackness of discipline among the preachers and them. This evil must be cured, or the work will be injured. Md] Asbury in Baltimore, Thursday, December ©. Came to Baltimore. Here I received letters from Virginia, by which I learn that affairs are not so bad in Virginia as I feared; a few of the local preachers have made some stir, and the traveling preachers have withdrawn from them and their adherents. I have spent some time in Balti- more with satisfaction, and could freely stay longer ; but there may be danger in these trading towns, and my way south seems to be open. Vad Party Spirit Among the People, Wednesday, 19. Preached in Leesburg. From thence I traveled and preached through Hanover and Gloucester circuits. I find the spirit of party among some of the people. The local preachers tell them 4 1782.] Bishop Asburd [llustrated. 161 of the ordinances, and they catch at them like fish at a bait. But when they are informed that they will have to give up the traveling preachers I apprehend they will not be so fond of their new plan; and if I judge right, the last struggle of a yielding party will be made at the approaching conference to be held at the Manakintown. N. 6] Asbury’s Rule in Praying for the Church, Thursday, February 7, 1782. I rode sixteen miles, and preached to 4 large assemblage of people at I. T.’s on the “great salvation.” Though I am often in haste, and straitened for want of time, I have gone through Mr. Wesley’s third volume once, and am going through it again. I make it a rule to spend an hour, morning and evening, in meditation and in prayer for all the circuits, societies, and preachers. I expect to see the work of God revive in these parts so soon as the spirit of disputation is cast out. Blessed be God, I enjoy good health of body and peace of mind! I find no preaching does good but that which properly presses the use of the means, and urges holiness of heart. These points I am determined to keep close to in all my sermons. Vad Expecting Better Entertainment, Saturday,9. We rode twenty-five miles up Maher- rin, and missing our way, did not reach the place un- til three o’clock. The people, meantime, had waited for us, and I spoke to them on Luke xix, Io, I trust not in vain. In this country I have to lodge half my nights in lofts, where light may be seen through a hundred places, and it may be the cold wind at the same time blowing through as many; but through 11 162 Character and Career of [1782. mercy Iam kept from murmuring, and bear it with thankfulness, expecting ere long to have better enter- tainment—a heavenly and eternal rest. N. G] The Best Antidote, Thursday, 21. I am filled with love from day to day. O bless the Lord for the constant communion I enjoy with him! Sanctification is the doctrine which is most wanted to be preached among the people here, whom the more I know the more I love. Antinomians are laboring to spread their tenets among them, but they will give way as holiness of heart and life is pointedly enforced and pressed home upon their consciences. This is the best antidote to the poison. Vad Philip Adams, I preached the funeral sermon of Philip Adams, one of our preachers. He died last March. This duty I performed the more cheerfully, believing that such would have been his choice had I been within reach at the time of his death. My subject was 1 Kings xiii, 30. P. A. was a man of grace, and his gifts increased ; he was steady, and closely attached to the doctrine and discipline of the Methodists ; he died happy in the Lord, and Idoubt not but that he has gone where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest. HG] Mr, Kennon—His Religion and Creed. Sunday, March 3. 1 have great affection for C. XKennon, one of the most sensible Calvinists in these parts. He acknowledges he found his religion among the Methodists ; his system he borrowed, from Wit- sius. Fletcher has cured him of the disease of dispu- 1782.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 163 tation; he reads him with delight even while he is prostrating the pillars against which he leans. Asbury Successful as a Peace-maker. Tuesday, April 16. We set out, and on the next day reached Ellis’s, at whose house we held a con- ference. The people flocked together for preaching. Mr. Jarratt gave us a profitable discourse on the four- teenth chapter of Hosea. In the evening the preachers met in conference. As there had been much distress felt by those of them in Virginia relative to the ad- ministration of the ordinances, I proposed to such as were so disposed to enter into a written agree- ment to cleave to the old plan in which we had been so greatly blessed, that we might have the greater confidence in each other, and know on whom to depend. This instrument was signed by the greater part of the preachers without hesitation. Next morn- ing I preached on Phil. ii, 1-5. I had liberty, and it pleased God to set it home. One of the preach- ers, James Haw, who had his difficulties, was delivered from them all, and with the exception of one, all the signatures of the preachers present were obtained. We received seven into connection, and four remained on trial At noon Mr. Jarratt spoke on the union of the attributes. Val Rejoices in the News of American Independence, Friday, Fune 10. I preached at Culpepper court- house. The people were serious and attentive. Here I heard the good news that Britain had acknowledged the Independence for which America has been con- tending. May it be so! The Lord does what to him seemeth good. 164 Character and Career of [1782. Md. Baltimore Conference—General Statistics, Monday, 20. A few of us began conference in Balti- more. Next day we had a full meeting. The preach- ers all signed the agreement proposed at the Virginia conference, and there was a unanimous resolve to adhere to the old Methodist plan. We spent most of the day in examining the preachers. We had regular daily preaching. Monday, Brother Ellis preached ; on 7uesday, J spoke on 1 Tim. iv, 4. Wednesday, 22. We had many things before us. Our printing plan was suspended for the present for want of funds. Friday, 24. Was set apart for fasting and prayer. We had a love-feast, the Lord was present, and all was well. The preachers in general were satisfied. I found myself burdened with labors and cares. We have now fifty-nine traveling preachers, and eleven thousand seven hundred and eighty-five in society. Our young men are serious, and their gifts are enlarged. Val Sick and Weary. Sunday, Fuly 7. In recrossing the mountain, on my. way to Mill Creek, I was obliged to walk up and down its sides, and was greatly tired. I delivered a short discourse, with pleasure, to about three hundred people ; afterward Brother Hagerty spoke to them. It rained before and after preaching, but held up while we worshiped by the side of the stream for want of a house. After preaching we rode to the Branch, making a Sabbath-day’s journey of nearly forty miles. Monday, 8. 1am sick and weary. Ah! how few are there who would not choose strangling rather 1782. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 165 than life and the labors we undergo, and the hard- ships and privations we are compelled to submit to! Blessed be God, we have hope beyond the grave! “My Poor Horse.” Friday, 12, Rode to the north Branch, crossed the Nobbly Mountain ; at its foot we stopped, ate a little bread, drank fine water, prayed, and then went for- ward to Cressaps. I was plain on Isaiah lv, 6, 7. Here Colonel Barrett met me and conducted me two miles up the Alleghany. We were riding until near ten o'clock ; the road was dreary, and the night was dark. I wanted rest and found it. We had nearly two hundred people to hear in this newly-set- tled country. They were attentive,and I hope God will do something for them. After preaching on John vii, 17, we set out on our return. I was much fatigued, and it rained hard; my poor horse, too, was so weak from the want of proper food that he fell down with me twice. This hurt my feelings exceedingly, more than any circumstance I met with in all my journey. Md] Inactivity Embittered, Saturday, 27. Being unwell, I declined going to Baltimore and went to Perry Hall, where I found my dear friend Thomas White. On the Sabbath day we read prayers in the family, and I preached in the afternoon on 2 Chron. xxxii, 24, 25. Monday, 29. Closely employed in answering letters from various parts. I find it hard to keep the power of religion; yet I feel that my soul is stayed upon God. I want to be moving on. IfI rest a few days I am tried. Blessed be God, who thus embitters 166 Character and Career of [1782. inactive quiescence to me! I am impelled forward by my desires of comfort for myself, and sincere wishes to be useful to the Church and to the world of sinners. Pa,] Philadelphia a Noisy. Disagreeable Place, Tuesday, August 27. After preaching to a small congregation of unengaged hearers we rode to Phila- delphia. What a noisy, disagreeable place! O for some of that simplicity which dwelt among the dwell- ersintents! But the souls of the people are precious. N. JJ Poor Gospel-hardened Trenton, Tuesday, September 3. Rode to Trenton ; the town in a great bustle with the court and the French troops. My subject was the Syrophenician wonian. The congregation was large and serious. Ah, poor Gospel-hardened Trenton! But a few have been converted of late. Wiliam Tennent. Saturday, 14. I came to New Mills after preach- ing at H.’s and Penny Hill. I passed through Mon- mouth and Upper and Lower Freehold. Here lived that old saint of God, William Tennent, who. went to his reward a few years ago. Pa,] Labors—Begging for Church Debt. Monday, 16. After preaching at Mount Holly toa crowded congregation, I rode, very unwell and under deep exercises of mind, to Philadelphia—twenty miles. I have preached seventeen times, and ridden above two hundred miles in the last two weeks. I think God will do great things in the Jerseys; the prospect is pleasing, east and west. 1782.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 167 Monday, 23. 1 began begging for the society, that we might, if possible, relieve our preaching-house from the incumbrance of ground-rent. I soon got about £270 subscribed. : Del.) White's New Chapel. Saturday, 28. Preached in Thoroughfare Neck, (twenty miles,) and then returned to Wyatt’s and preached with liberty ; thence I hastened on to Dover, and at six o’clock delivered my third discourse, mak- ing a journey of forty miles. * We know not what we can do until we.try. Sunday, October 6. I preached in White’s new chapel for the first time. It is one of the neatest country chapels the Methodists have on the whole continent. My subject was Haggai ii, 9g: “In this place will I give peace.” Va] Williamsburg the Former Capital. Wednesday, December 11. 1 rode to Williamsburg, formerly the seat of government, but now removed to Richmond. Thus the worldly glory is departed from it. As to Divine glory it never had any. I preached in James City court-house. The place has suffered and is suffering. The palace, the barracks, and some good dwelling-houses burned. The capitol is no great building, and is going to ruin; the exterior of the college not splendid, and but few students; the Bedlam-house is desolate, but whether because none are insane, or all are equally mad, it might, perhaps, be difficult to tell. 168 Character and Career of [1783. A Qold State of Things, New Years Day, 1783. I have passed through Gates, Hartford, Bertie, and Northampton counties, in North Carolina. I am now in Southampton coun- ty, in Virginia, and have this day preached in St. Paul’s. Monday, 6. After preaching at H. C.’s we rode twenty miles to Greaves’s, where I met with Mr. Jarratt. On TZwesday he preached for me at R. Jones’s.. I exhorted ; the meeting was lively. Tuesday, 14. Wolsey’s barn. Cold day, cold house, cold people. There has been preaching here for seven years past, yet the society declines. N. 0] The Barn a Closet for Prayer. Monday, March 3. Cold as it was, we rode from Guilford to Caswell county, a distance of twenty miles, and met with a considerable congregation, among whom were a few warm-hearted people. I hope the Lord will work here. Here was a cabin with one room, a barn, and stables. I have little time to write or place to read. The barn is my closet for prayer. No Fodder, No Supper, No Prayer. Saturday, 22. I preached to a poor, unfeeling peo- ple at a place the circuit preachers had left. We were fortunate enough to eat about eleven o'clock, and got nothing more until about that hour next day. We pushed on to get to M.’s. Arrived there at eight o'clock at night; there was no fodder, no supper, no prayer. Next morning we started at sunrise, and with difficulty getting over the river, came to Win- stead’s about ten o'clock. Here we breakfasted. . 1783.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 169 Peace Confirmed between England and America. Saturday, April 5. 1 heard the news that peace was confirmed between England and America. I had yarious exercises of mind on the occasion. It may cause great changes to take place among us ; some for the better, and some forthe worse. It may make against the work of God. Our preachers will be far more likely to settle in the world, and our people, by getting into trade and acquiring wealth, may drink into its spirit. Believing the report to be true, I took some notice of it while I treated on Acts x, 36 at Brother Clayton’s, near Halifax, where they were fir- ing their cannons and rejoicing in their way on the occasion. This day I prevailed with Brother Dickins to go to New York, where I expect him to be far more useful than in his present station. Va.) — Love-feast Testimony in Favor of African Liberty, After long rides through Fluvanna and Orange cir- cuits I came to Petersburg on Monday the 5zh of May, and the next day to Ellis’s chapel. Wednesday, 7. Our conference began at this place. Some young laborers were taken in to assist in spread- ing the Gospel, which greatly prospers in the north. We all agreed in the spirit of African liberty, and strong testimonies were borne in its favor in our love- feast. Our affairs were conducted in love. From Petersburg I proceeded northward. Maj Cruelty to a Negro—Asbury's Protest, Sunday, Fune 8. I have been well exercised, al- though I am not™so weary as I expected. I have 170 Character and Career of [1783. preached three times, and the weather is very warm. I believe the more we do, the more we shall be ena- bled to do for God and for our souls. I visited Sister R y, sick of the putrid fever. I prayed with her, and trusted God with my safety from infection. I went to I. Worthington’s, but I beheld such cruelty to a negro that I could not feel free to stay. I called for my horse, delivered my own soul, and departed. Va) = Hunger and Hard Work not the Worst of It, Saturday, 21. Preached to a few people at Win- chester. For several days past I have had to ride the whole day, and to preach without eating until five or six o’clock in -the evening, except a little biscuit. This is hard work for manand horse. This, however, is not the worst—-religion is greatly wanting in these parts. The inhabitants are much divided. Made up, as they are, of different nations, and speaking differ- ent languages, they agree in scarcely any thing, ex- cept it be to sin against God. Pa] Quarterly Meeting—Asbury's Aspiration for Holiness, Saturday and Sunday, 26,27. Our quarterly meet- ing was held at Worley’s, near Little York. Many spoke in our love-feast with great simplicity, and my spirit was refreshed among them. Thursday, 31. Preached at Martin Boehm’s to many people. Saturday, August 2, Indisposed and dejected. This is a barren land of religion, yet fruitful for every thing else. ‘Monday, 4. Rose early to pour out my soul to God. 1783.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 171 I want to live to him and for him; to be holy in heart, in life, and in conversation. This is my mark, my prize, my all—to be, in my measure, like God. N.Y In New York, Monday, 25. Set out for New York. Arrived there, I found Brother Dickins preaching. Wednesday, 27. 1 was close and searching ; a few felt it. A little of the good old spirit yet prevails among these people. We had preaching generally morning and evening, and I trust the seed sown will not all be lost. NJ Hard Lodging for a Sick Man, Thursday, September 11. At.Mount Holly I had more people than I expected. On Friday I rode a long, barren way to the Forks of Egg Harbor. Saturday, 14. I injured myself by speaking too long and too loud. I rode seven miles, got wet, had poor lodgings, with plenty of mosquitoes. Next day, poorly as I was, I had to ride seventeen miles, and spoke while I had a high fever on me. I laid me down ona plank. Hard lodging this for a sick man. A Wild Chase. Sunday, 21. 1 had a wild chase-—first, to New En- gland town, but their minister had warned the people against hearing us, thence to Cohansey. Here Mr. Vantull had appointed to preach at the same hour, although my appointment had been given out some time before. Arriving, however, before him, I preached in the court-house—and cleared out ; those who re- mained met with hard blows. 172 Character and Career of [1783. Quakers Help Build the Salem Church, Monday, 22. In the evening at Salem; a number of Friends attended, and were serious. Here a few of our scattered people have attempted to build a house of worship, but found themselves too weak to accomplish it. They applied to some of the people, called Quakers, for assistance, who subscribed liber- ally. The matter was talked over, as I am informed, at their quarterly meeting. When it was objected “that we spoke for hire,” it was answered, “ No, it was only for a passing support.” So there was con- sent given that /vends who were free to do it might give. Del.] From North to South, Wednesday, October 1. Passed through Philadelphia, and came on Saturday, the twenty-seventh, to Dover, where I preached at nine o’clock on the Sabbath day, and at Barratt’s chapel at three o'clock. Thursday, 2. | preached at Queen Anne’s, where a considerable number attended, and where many profess religion. . Friday, 3. Preached at A.’s, in Kent county, to a large company, and was much assisted. Md] Hight Years Ago, Thursday, 23. 1 enjoy much peace with God, al- though I am left to serve alone. But God is with me. O healthful sickness, blessed pain, if the Lord supports! I am now beside the Chesapeake Bay. Here Calvert and Dorset lie opposite to each other. Eight years ago, when going down the bay, little 1783.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 173 thought I of the great things God was about to do for both shores. Del.] In Dover Again. Sunday, November 2. I spoke at Mr. Bassett’s, in Dover, to many people; thence rode to the Cross- roads. Herea design had been formed to prevent my preaching, and Mr. Bishop came, as I was told, to ad- vise me to forbid resistance. Had he and another hon- estly discouraged those who had got together to inter- rupt preaching on a former occasion, resistance and forbearance would have been equally unnecessary. I rode on through the rain and darkness to Mr. Thompson’s. Md] On the Banks of the Potomac, Tuesday, 25. I visited some families, and my soul was grieved at the blackslidings of some of my old friends. O may the Lord reach their hearts ! Made a short stay in Baltimore, and preached at Elk Ridge on my way to Virginia. When we reached the Potomac, Brother P Ss was unwilling to cross ; so we stayed at the public house without fire, candle, or supper, and the host drunk. Next morning we crossed the river, and were kindly received at Brother Bushby’s. Va] At Alexandria Oourt-House. Friday, 28, Preached to a large congregation in the court-house at Alexandria. On my way to Fred- ericksburg I fell in with some gentlemen and con- versed with them on the subject of religion. They sought refuge in God’s foreknowledge, and thence drew their proofs that their Creator would not eter- nally damn them. 174 Character and Career of [1783. NG] Letter from Mr, Wesley—Preaches at Edenton, Wednesday, 24. Set out in the rain to Hartford town. I spoke ina tavern. The people seemed wild and wicked altogether. I journeyed on through the damp weather, and reached Pettigrew’s about six o'clock. Here I received a letter from Mr. Wesley, in which he directs me to act as general assistant, and to receive no preachers from Europe that are not recommended by him, nor any in Aterica who will not submit to me and to the minutes of the conference. I preached in Edenton to a gay, inattentive peo- ple. Iwas very much pleased with Mr. Pettigrew. I heard him preach, and received the Lord’s Sup- per at his hands. Thence I crossed the Chowan River and preached, journeying through Bertie, Hert- ford, and Northampton counties, to considerable congregations. A Ride of Forty Miles—A Congregation of Fifteen. Tuesday, February 24, 1784. Rode forty miles. Next day preached to fifteen people. Thursday, 26. Rode to Hillsborough. The snow was deep, the street dirty, my horse sick, the people drinking and swearing. I endeavored to preach on “ A man’s gaining the whole world,” etc. Wonderfully Entertained. Thursday, March 4. Preached at Browder’s, and then hasted to the Widow Kembrough’s. Here I was wonderfully entertained with a late publication by Silas Mercer, a Baptist preacher, in which he has anathematized the whole race of kings from Saul to 1784.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 175 George III. His is republicanism run mad. Why afraid of religious establishments in these days of en- lightened liberty? Silas has beaten the Pope, who only on certain occasions, and for certain reasons, absolves subjects from allegiance to their sovereigns ; and if the nations of Europe believed the sweeping doctrines. of Silas, they would be right to decapitate every crowned head, and destroy every existing form of Church government. If plunging-baptism is the only true ordinance, and there can be no true Church without it, it is not quite clear that ever Christ had a Church until the Baptists plunged for it. Va.) Asbury Sweeps through the Counties. Sunday, 4. Preached at Finney’s old place, where I suppose there might be some that had hardly heard preaching since I was here last year. Thence I rode through Powhatan, Cumberland, and Buckingham counties, where there is poor encouragement for religion. O my Lord, arise, for thine own glory, visit the people in mercy, and make known thy power in the salvation of poor sinners ! Northward Again, Thursday, 29. Rode to Ellis’s chapel, in Sussex county, where we held our conference the two ensu- ing days. Brother O’Kelly gave us a good sermon: “JT keep under my body, and bring it into subjec- tion,’ etc. Mr. Jarratt gave us a good discourse on 1 Tim. i, 4. Our business was conducted with un- common love and unity. From this conference I proceeded on and crossed James River on my way to the north, and was led to cry to God to go with us and meet us there, 176 Character and Career of [1784. Md] Glendenning Foiled. Thursday, May 30. Reached Baltimore about seven o'clock. I have ridden about fifty miles to-day. , In crossing the Potomac, when about midway, we turned back to meet the stage, and I found Dr. Lusby. I learned by letter that my father and mother are yet alive, Tuesday, 25. Our conference began, all in peace. William Glendenning had been devising a plan to lay me aside, or at least to abridge my powers. Mr. Wesley’s letter settled the point, and all was happy. The conference rose on /yiday morning. Va,] Ascending the Alleghany. Thursday, Fuly 1. We began to ascend the Alle- ghany, directing our course toward Redstone. We passed the Little Meadows, keeping the route of Braddock’s road for about twenty-two miles, along a rough pathway. Arriving at a small house, and halt- ing for the night, we had Zzterally to lie as thick as three in a bed. My soul has peace. For three days I had fever ; the excessive labor I have undergone may have nourished it. When I arose yesterday morning I was very unwell. After riding about seven miles I was taken with a trembling and profuse perspira- tion. I ate something and felt better, and my fever is now abated. My soul has been blessed in an un- common degree ; and thou, my soul, bless the Lord ; and O that he may be pleased to make me a blessing to the people in this part of the world! A Mixed Congregation, Sunday, 4. At Cheat River we had a mixed con- gregation of sinners, Presbyterians, Baptists, and it 1784.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 177 may be of saints. I had liberty, and gave it to them as the Lord gave it to me—plain enough. After me Brother Bougham spoke with life and power. I think God will bring a people to himself in this place. Pa] One Hundred and Sixty Miles of Rough Roads, Wednesday, 7. We had nearly seven hundred people at Beeson Town. They were, in general, serious and attentive. Thursday, 8. 1 preached at D.’s, to a wild people, on Acts xiii, 26. Since last Friday we have ridden one hundred and sixty or more miles, on rough roads, through a rough country, and with rough fare. I trust our labor will not all be lost. Mil © At Fredericktown and Winchester, Sunday, 18. I preached in the new market-house at Fredericktown. Many attended both from town and country. Wednesday, 21. We had many to hear at Win- chester. They appeared to be orderly and solemn, and I hope it will appear that some were convicted. Pa,] Philadelphia Circuit, Saturday, 31. Our quarterly meeting in Philadel- phia circuit began the 21s¢ of uly. I addressed the congregation on the Epistle to the Church of Sardis. We had a gracious time on Sunday, the 1st of August. At four o'clock I preached again, in the Valley church, on Isaiah lxvi, 1: “ Heaven is my throne, and the earth my footstool.” Monday, August 2. After preaching at Brother H.’s on Luke xi, 13, I went to the city and preached to many people on 1 Peter iii, 15. 12 178 Character and Career of [1784. N. Jd At Burlington and Trenton. Monday, 16. Went to Burlington. Tuesday, 17. Went to Trenton. Although unwell, and greatly oppressed by heat, I preached at both these places. Tuesday, 24. I rode to Mr. Ogden’s. Next day I spoke, but with little freedom, to an attentive yet un- feeling audience in Sussex court-house. My host, who appears to be a man of liberal sentiments, enter- tained me kindly. I preached at New Market Plains to about one hundred hearers. I spoke freely in vindication of Methodism. It was strange, for I knew not until afterward that there were present those who come at no other time. N. YJ Growing Into Good Methodists, Friday, 27. We had a trying journey to New York, the weather being excessively warm. I found my old friends, C. and W. L., at Newark, who appeared pleased to see me. We took the stage and reached York about eight o'clock. At York we found the people alive to God. There are about one hundred in society, and, with those in Philadelphia, to my mind, appear more like Methodists than I have ever yet ‘*seen them. My first discourse was for the benefit of poor stragglers who have not yet returned to the fold. The subject chosen was Rev. iii, 1-4. Sunday, 29. In the evening I preached for the benefit of poor sinners on Job xxi, 15. Monday, 30. My soul is alive to God. I visited, prayed, read, wrote, met the classes, and in the even- ing preached. I have found great consolation and fellowship in the classes. 1784.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 179 N. J] John Budd—Fellowship and Prayer. Sunday, September 12. Preached at Penny Hill, and afterward at New Mills. I have been kept in peace, but find my adversary is not dead; neither am I out of the body, or what I may be, or must be, before I see the kingdom of God. O my soul, keep near to God, and always watch and pray ! Monday, 13. I was weak and feverish ; sorely tempted, and much comforted. I walked over to John Budd's, a son of affliction. We spoke of the dealings of God with our own souls—not in vain ; we prayed, and parted in love. Two things seem to dim my prospects of heaven, in point of qualifica- tion—first, I do not speak enough for God; and, secondly, I am not totally devotéd to him. Lord, help me to come up to my duty! Del] Asbury Exhorting the Boys at School. Saturday, October 2. J preached in our new chapel at Dover, in the State of Delaware, on faith, hope, charity. At Barratt’s I believe I was alarming, on Isaiah iii, 10, 11. I was moved in the evening toward the boys in school at C. I spoke till they wept aloud. O my God, their parents fear thee; bring them home, with them, to thyself! Md.) First Visit to Kent Island, Thursday, 14. I rode twenty miles to visit Kent Island for the first time. Here we had an unusual collection of people, and surely all was not in vain. We had a good time at Newcomb’s. The word of God has greatly triumphed over the prejudices of tich and poor. We went on to Cambridge. Here 180 Character and Career of [1784. George, a poor negro in our society, we found under sentence of death for theft committed before he became a Methodist. He appeared to be much given up to God. He was reprieved under the gallows. A merchant, who cursed the negro for praying, died in horror. I pity the poor slaves. O that God would look down in mercy, and take their cause in hand! Vad Three Days’ Work. Tuesday, November 2. After preaching at Garrett- son chapel I rode to Col. Burton’s, and was kindly received. Friday, 5. I came back to Col. Burton’s. Since I went from this house I have ridden about one hun- dred miles, spent five hours in delivering five public discourses, and ten hours in family and public prayer, and read two hundred pages in Young’s Works. I have enjoyed great peace, and hope to see a great and glorious work. Ma.] Asbury Meets Coke and Whatcoat, Sunday, 14. I came to Barratt’s chapel. Here, to my great joy, I met these dear men of God, Dr. Coke and Richard Whatcoat, and we were greatly com- forted together. The doctor preached on “ Christ our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and re- demption.” Having had no opportunity of convers- ing with them before public worship, I was greatly surprised to see Brother Whatcoat assist by taking the cup in the administration of the sacrament. I was shocked when first informed of the intention of these my brethren in coming to this country. It may be of God. My answer then was, if the preachers unanimously choose me I shall not act in the capac- 1784. ] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 181 ity I have hitherto done by Mr. Wesley’s appoint- ment. The design of organizing the Methodists into an Independent Episcopal Church was opened to the preachers present, and it was agreed to call a general conference, to meet at Baltimore the ensuing Christ- mas, as also that Brother Garrettson go off to Virginia to give notice thereof to our brethren in the south. Del.) Dr. Coke Reviews Asbury’s Field of Labor. Monday, 15. I was very desirous the Doctor should go upon the track I had just been over, which he ac- cordingly did. I came to Dover, and preached on Eph. v, 6 ; was close and, I hope, profitable. Mad] Asbury Meets with Thomas Vasey. Tuesday, 16. Rode to Bohemia, where I met with Thomas Vasey, who came over with the Doctor and R. Whatcoat. My soul is deeply engaged with God to know his will in this business. His Approaching Elevation. Friday, 26. I observed this day as a day of fasting and prayer, that I might know the will of God in the matter that is shortly to come before our conference. The preachers and people seem to be much pleased with the projected plan. I myself am led to think it is of the Lord. I am not tickled with the honor to be gained—I see danger in the-way. My soul waits upon God. O that he may lead us in the way we should go! Part of my time is, and must necessarily be, taken up with preparing for the conference. 182 Character and Career of [1784. Methodist Episcopal Church Organized—Asbury’s Election and Ordination, Saturday, December 18. Spent the day at Perry Hall, partly in preparing for conference. My intervals of time I passed in reading the third volume of the British Arminian Magazine. Continued at Perry Hall until Friday, the twenty-fourth. We then rode to Balti- more, where we met a few preachers. It was agreed to form ourselves into an Episcopal Church, and to have superintendents, elders, and deacons. When the conference was seated Dr. Coke and myself were unanimously elected to the superintendency of the Church, and my ordination followed, after being previously ordained deacon and elder, as by the fol- lowing certificate may be seen: Know all men by these presents, that I, Thomas Coke, Doctor of Civil Law, late of Jesus College, in the University of Oxford, Presbyter of the Church of England, and Superintendent of the Methodist Epis- copal Church in America, under the protection of Almighty God, and with a single eye to his glory, by the imposition of my hands and prayer, (being as- sisted by two ordained elders,) did on the twenty-fifth day of this month, December, set apart Francis As- bury for the office of adeacon in the aforesaid Meth- odist Episcopal Church. And also on the twenty-sixth day of the said month did, by the imposition of my hands and prayer, (being assisted by the said elders,) set apart the said Francis Asbury for the office of elder of the said Methodist Episcopal Church. And on this twenty-seventh day of the said month, being the day of the date hereof, have, by the imposition of I 784] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 183 my hands and prayer, (being assisted by the said elders,) set apart the said Francis Asbury for the office of a superintendent in the said Methodist Epis- copal Church, a man whom I judge to be well qualified for that great work. And I do hereby recommend him to all whom it may concern as a fit person to preside over the flock of Christ. In testimony where- of I have hereunto set my hand and seal this twenty- seventh day of December, in the year of our Lord 1784. Tuomas COKE. Twelve elders were elected, and solemnly set apart to serve our societies in the United States, one for Antigua, and two for Nova Scotia. We spent the whole week in conference, debating freely, and deter- mining all things by a majority of votes. The Doc- tor preached every day at noon, and some one of the other preachers morning and evening. We were in great haste, and did much business in a little time. _ Asbury’s First Sermon after Ordination. Monday, Fanuary 3,1785. The conference is risen, and J have now a little time for rest. In the evening I preached on Eph. iii, 8, being the first sermon after my ordination. My mind was unsettled, and I was but low in my own testimony. Va,] Of to Virginia, Tuesday, 4. | was engaged preparing for my jour- ney southward. Rode fifty miles through frost and snow to Fairfax, Virginia, and got in about seven o'clock. Thursday, 6. We had an exceeding cold ride to Prince William—little less than forty miles, and were » 184 Character and Career of {1785, nearly two hours after night in getting to Brother Hale's. " Friday, 7. A calm day. I had Brother Hickson for my companion. We passed Fauquier court-house, and came to the north branch of the Rappahannock, which we found about waist high, and frozen from side to side. We pushed the ice out of the track which a wagon, well for us, had made, and got over safe. Pursuing our journey, we came to a little oraz- nary kept by one Whitehead. Here were some wag- oners at cards in the front room, but this did not pre- vent our having prayers in the one adjoining. We slept in peace, and had only nine shillings and six- pence to pay in the morning. Asbury Afraid of Self-estimation. Saturday, 8. Rode to Brother Fry’s to dinner, where I met with Brother Willis, who had stopped there on his way to the conference. Sunday, 9. We read prayers, preached, ordained Brother Willis deacon, and baptized some children. I feel nothing but love. JI am sometimes afraid of be- ing led to think something more of myself in my new station than formerly. N, G1] Administering the Ordinances, Friday, 28. My horse being unfit to travel, I bor- rowed another, and went on seventeen miles to Fish- er’s River, where I met with a few poor people. Thence we rode through the barren mountains, and crossed the frequent rivers in our course and came to W.’s. Next day I preached at Heady’s, and rode en to Hindorn’s in Wilkes county. Here we were 1785. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 185 kindly entertained, although there were few people to preach to. Nothing could have better pleased our old Church folks than the late step we have taken in administering the ordinances ; to the catholic Presby- terians it also gives satisfaction, but the Baptists are discontented. 8. Gl “Here and There a Horse Thief” Thursday, February 3. Rode twenty miles to Witherspoon’s. Here was a large assemblage of people; some to pay and receive taxes, some to drink, and some to hear me preach. I gave them a rough talk on Rev. ii, 5-8. From this place we rode to Allen’s. The people here are famous for talking _, about religion ; and here and there is a horse thief. Asbury Baptizes by Immersion. Monday, 7. I preached at Elsberry’s, and rode thirty-one miles to Morgan Bryan’s. The weather has been cold and uncomfortable. I have ridden on the horse I borrowed nearly three hundred miles in about nine days. Tuesday, 8. I observed this as a day of absti- nence. I preached and administered the sacrament and held a love-feast. Our friends were greatly com- forted. Here I plunged four adults, at their own re- quest, they being persuaded that this was the most proper mode of baptizing. A Week in Charleston, Monday, 28. The Calvinists, who are the only peo- ple in Charleston who appear to have any sense of religion, seem to be alarmed. Yesterday morning, 186 Character and Career of [1785. and again at noon, the congregations were small; at night we were crowded. There is a great dearth of religion here ; some say never more so than at this time. The people were a little moved while Brother Lee preached to them on Sabbath evening. My first ser- mon was on Wednesday, thé second of March, on 2 Cor. v, 20. Ihad but littleenlargement. I preached again the next day on Eccles. xi,g. The people were solemn and attentive. I find there are here those who oppose us. I leave the Lord to look to his own cause. I told my hearers that I expected to stay in the city but seven days ; that I should preach every night, if they would favor me with their company, and that I should speak on subjects of primary importance to their souls, and explain the essential doctrines taught and held by the Methodists. An Oasis in the Desert. Sunday, March 13. Hearing of Brother Daniel at Town Creek, I resolved to make a push for his house. It was forty miles distant, and I did not start until nine o'clock. I dined at Lockwood’s Folly, and got in about seven o'clock. O how happy was I to be re- ceived, and my dear friends to receive me! I have been out for six weeks, and ridden near five hundred miles among strangers to me, to God, and to the power of religion. How could I live in the world if there were no Christians in it ! WN. G1 Merry, Drinking Rafismen. Saturday, 19. After preaching at Town Creek I rode in the evening to Wilmington. Night came on before we reached there, and from the badness of the 1785.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 187 causeway I ran some risk. We went to 's, but he was not prepared to receive us ; afterward to Ss, where we had merry, singing, drunken raftsmen. To their merriment I soon puta stop. I felt the power of the devil here. “His Sermon was His Own”—Proof, Sunday, 20. The bell went round to give notice, and I preached to alarge congregation. When I had done, behold, F. Hill came into the room powdered off, with a number of fine ladies and gentlemen. As I could not get my horse and bags, I heard him: out. I verily believe his sermon was his own, it was so much like his conversation. I came away well satis- fied that I had delivered my own soul. Va.) Agitation—Dr. Coke—0'Kelly—Slavery, Saturday, 30. I am much better in health. My sickness was made a blessing to me. Rode to W. Mason’s, where we are to meet in conference. I found the minds of the people greatly agitated with our rules against slavery, and a proposed petition to the general assembly for the emancipation of the blacks. Colonel and Doctor Coke disputed on the subject, and the Colonel used some threats. Next day Brother O'Kelly let fly at them, and they were made angry enough; we, however, came off with whole bones, and our business in conference was finished in peace. Asbury Lodges in the Poor-Houss, Thursday, 12. Rode to York, lately the seat of war. Here Lord Cornwallis surrendered to the combined 188 Character and Career of [1785. armies of America and France. The inhabitants are dissolute and careless. I preached to a few serious women at one o'clock, and, at the desire of the ladies, again at four o’clock. I came to Mrs. Rowe’s: the son was once on our side; he has left us, and now we have the mother. I lodged in the poor-house. Mal Coke and Asbury Wait on General Washington, Sunday, 22. Notwithstanding it rained, many at- tended of both rich and poor ; but in the afternoon the wind or the rain kept the gentry away. Many of the common people heard gladly. From Annapolis we rode to Alexandria, to meet Dr. Coke. He did not come, however, until the next day. Thursday, 26. We waited on General Washington, who received us very politely, and gave us his opinion against slavery. Dr. Coke Takes Leave of America, Wednesday, Fune 1. Our conference began. Iwas unwell during the session, a blister running, applied fora pain in my breast. On Thursday the Doctor took his leave of America for this visit. We parted with heavy hearts. On Friday we rested from our labors and had a love-feast. Asbury Preaches the Foundation Sermon of Cokesbury College. Sunday, 5. I rode to Abingdon, to preach the foundation sermon of Cokesbury College. I stood on the ground where the building is to be erected, warm as it was, and spoke from Psalm Ixxviii, 4-8. I had liberty in speaking, and faith to believe the work would go on. 1785.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 189 Va.) At Bath, Thursday, 28. Being in a good degree recovered, I felt thankful. My spirit is grieved at so much van- ity as is seen here at Bath, by the many poor careless sinners around me. The living is expensive, four dollars per week. Capt. is here, raised almost from the grave. I feel tenderly for him, and I hope God will convert his soul. Sunday, 31. Mr. Keith gave us a sermon; very legal and to little purpose. In the afternoon I gave them my last discourse on Rom. i, 16. Ma.] A New Chapel in Baltimore. Thursday, August 4. Reached Baltimore. Our friends here have bought a lot, and are building a new chapel thereon, seventy by forty-six feet: it is well fixed for entrances and light. Pa] Asbury in Philadelphia, Tuesday, 23. I set off, very weak, for Philadelphia, and reached there on Thursday the 25th. Sunday, 28. Preached a sacramental sermon on Rom. viii, 32. Our congregation was large in the evening, to whom I enlarged on Joshua xxiv, 19. N.Y In New York, Wednesday, 31. Reached New York. Preached the three following days, although weak in body and languid in spirit. Sunday, September 4. Notwithstanding I was very unwell, I preached thrice, read prayers twice, and held a love-feast. My flesh went heavily along. Our 190 Character and Career of [1785. society here has increased in number and grace ; our congregations also grow larger. I feel deeper desires to be given up to God. My friends here have been liberal indeed in supplying my temporal needs. May they be abundantly rewarded in spirituals ! Wednesday, 7. After preaching this morning I left the city. Overstaying the hour, the stage left us, and we found ourselves under the necessity of walking six miles. I dined with Mr. Ogden, and préachedin Elizabethtown, in the unfinished church belonging to the Presbyterians. N. Jd At Salem—A Baptism. Saturday, 24. Preachedat Salem and at Stow Creek, with some consolation. Many attended, although it rained, and we had a comfortable time at sacrament. I plunged H. T. and S. M. in Salem Creek. This unusual baptismal ceremony might, perhaps, have made our congregation larger than it would other- wise have been. Lord, help me to keep on, under all my troubles of body and mind! From Salem we proceeded on thirty miles through a great storm. We were glad to stop at Gloucester, where we had a room to ourselves, enjoying our Christian privileges, and were comfortable. Next morning we came on to Cooper’s ferry, and although the wind blew violently in the morning, when we came to the ferry all was calm. We breakfasted in Philadelphia early enough for church. Pa,] In Chester and Wilmington. Monday, 26. Set out for the south, and arrived at Chester. Next day preached at Mattson’s. Arriving at Wilmington, I preached there on James i, 27. 1785.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. IgI Del] In Dover, Saturday, October 1. Came to Dover. I had the court-house full of people, but I was not in possession of liberty of mind or strength of body to preach. The election is not yet over. Monday, 3. WWehad a gracious season at the sacra- ment at Purdon’s. That evening I rode to Brother White’s, and was closely occupied with temporals. Md] At Kent Old Chapel. Saturday, 8. We had an open time, and the souls of the people were stirred up at Angiers. The Lord was also with us at Worten chapel in the afternoon. Sunday, 9. I preached at Kent Old Chapel on “ Ye have said it is vain to serve God.” In the after- noon and night at Chestertown. I always have an enlargement in preaching in this very wicked place. The people to-day were very serious and attentive. Asbury Exchanges his Jersey Wagon for a Sulky. Sunday, November 6. Came away early. Arriving in Baltimore, preached at noon on Heb. xi, 2-8, and at night on Caleb’s fully following the Lord. I found the means of conveyance by my carriage, or Jersey wagon, would not do. Tuesday, 8. I preached at Annapolis to a multi- tude of people, part of whom were serious. Wednesday, 9. I was under considerable exercise of mind about my carriage. I at length resolved to decline traveling in it, and buying a second-hand sulky, left it to be sold. I now traveled light and easy, and came to Child’s church. 192 Character and Career of [1785. Va] Unwilling to be Idle, Sunday, 27. I went to Chickahominy church, where conditional notice had been given for Brother Reed. I preached on Acts v, 31, and spent the evening at Mr. Welden’s. My foot continuing in such a state as to prevent my going to my appoint- ments, I was led to reflect on this dark providence. Unwilling to be idle, I wrote to the preachers to do what they could in collecting money to carry on the building of our college. For some time past I had not been quite satisfied with the order and arrange- ment of our form of discipline, and persuaded that it might be improved without difficulty, we accord- ingly set about it, and during my confinement in James City completed the work, arranging the sub- ject-matter thereof under their proper heads, divis- ions, and sections. Swampy Routes and Orazy Bridges, Thursday, December 15. A solitary day this! plenty of water, if nothing else. We employed a black man to ride our horses, and we took toacanoe. Being remounted, and journeying on, we came to a stream that was impassable. We found ourselves under the necessity of going round by Martinsburg, and thus got into the road, and now pushed forward with spirit until we came to Swift’s Creek. Here the causeway was overflown, and the logs most of them afloat. My horse fell, but I was preserved by his securing a fore- foot hold on the timber after falling. Thus we toiled over our swampy routes and crazy bridges till seven o'clock, and about that time arrived at Neuse Ferry, having ridden about forty tedious miles. 1785.] Bishop Asbury [llustrated. 193 N. 0d Asbury at Newbern and Beaufort, Came to Newbern. Found Brothers A. and B. in the Church. I preached at three o’clock on “The world by wisdom knew not God.” The assembly was in session, and some of the members were friendly. Wednesday, 21. Sailed down to Beaufort, and preached in the church. The people are kind, but have very little religion. On the same evening I pushed down to the Straits, and the next day preached at the Straits chapel; thence I returned to town, and preached again, after which we sailed back to Colonel Bell’s, whence we first started. 8 0] Charleston Eighty-six Years Ago. Friday, Fanuary 13, 1786. I came to Charleston. Being unwell, Brother Willis supplied my place. Sunday, 15. We had a solemn time in the day, and a full house and good time in the evening. My heart was much taken up with God. Our congrega- tions are large, and our people are encouraged to undertake the building of a meeting-house this year. Charleston has suffered much, a fire about 1700, again in November, 1740, and lastly the damage sustained by the late war. The city is now in a flour- ishing condition. A High Breakfast. Tuesday, 24. We made an early start, and stopped at a tavern for breakfast. The landlord had seen and heard me preach three years before in Virginia, and would receive no pay. That evening we came to Mrs. B.'s. We rode fifty miles to the Congaree, and 13 194 Character and Career of [1786. lodged where there were a set of gamblers. I neither ate bread nor drank water with them. We left these blacklegs early next morning, and after riding nine miles came to a fire, where, stopping and broiling our bacon, we had a #zgh breakfast. At Weaver's ferry we crossed the Seleuda. Here once lived that strange, deranged mortal, who proclaimed himself to be God. Report says that he killed three men for refusing their assent to his godship. He gave out his wife to be the Virgin Mary, and his son Jesus Christ, and when hanged at Charleston promised to rise the third day. N. GJ Asbury when with the Poor, Wednesday, February 8. We rode forty computed, and perhaps, in truth, fifty miles to quarterly meet- ing at Gordon’s, at the Mulberry Fields, on the Yadkin River. Here we met with Brothers Ivey, Bingham, and Williamson. Thursday, the sacrament was a time of refreshing. Saturday, 11. 1 rode through rain and hail to B.’s, and preached to a few serious people on Psalm cxxviii, and we were blessed together. O what happiness do they lose who never visit the poor in their cottages ! He Allows Nothing to Detain Him. Sunday, 19. Preached at Morgan Bryan’s. Next day I set off in the rain, and traveled with it. We swam Grant’s creek, and reached Salisbury in the evening, wet and weary. I thought we should scarcely have preachers at the time appointed, but the bad weather did not stop their coming. We 1786.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 195 spent three days in conference, and went through our business with satisfaction. Having sent our horses into the country, we could not get them when they were wanted. I therefore borrowed Brother Tunnell’s horse, and went on to my appointments. A Cool Reception at Hillsborough, Friday, March to. J rode once more to Hillsboro’, where I met with a cool reception. I am now satis- fied never to visit that place again until they have a society formed, constant preaching, and a desire to see me. O what a country this is! We can but just get food for our horses. I am grieved, indeed, for the sufferings, the sins, and the follies of the people. Vaid A Reinforcement, Friaay, April 7, 1 preached at Merritt's chapel with but little life. I rode to Mason’s that night, much weak- ened through abstinence. A deep dejection seized my spirits, so that I could hardly bear up. On the Sabbath day I preached at Moss’s to a large congre- gation. We went forward toward Lane’s church, where our conference was held. Some spirits were tried before it ended. Here ten young men offered themselves on probation. Mad] Financiering. Sunday, 23. Hail, glorious Lord! After deep ex- ercises of body and mind I feel a solemn sense of God on my heart. I preached by day in the court- house on I Pet. iii, 19, and in the evening at the Presbyterian church on Luke xix, 41,42. Alexandria 196 Character and Career of [1786. must grow, and if religion prospers among them it will be blessed. I drew a plan, and set on foot a subscription for a meeting-house. Wednesday, 26. Arrived in Baltimore, and was occupied until the following Saturday in collecting money for the books, and inspecting the accounts of the Book Concern. Sunday, 30. I preached three times, and made a collection to defray the expenses of sending mis- sionaries to the western settlements. I spoke twice on the same subject through the course of the week. Va.) Interview with Mr, Otterbein. Sunday, Fune 4. The Lutheran minister began a few minutes before I got into Winchester. I rode leisurely through the town, and preached under some spreading trees on a hill on Joshua xxiv, 19, to many white and black people. It was a solemn, weighty time ; all was seriousness and attention. I then went once more to Newtown. Here I preached on 2 Tim. iii, 16, 17. I had but little freedom in speak- ing. I called on Mr. Otterbein. We had some free conversation on the necessity of forming a Church among the Dutch, holding conferences, the order of its government, etc. Pa,] Going to the Frontiers. Friday, 23. 1 was much blessed, and had many to hear at S. Litton’s. We are now going to the front- iers, and may take a peep into the Indian land. This is a fruitful district, and I hope it will prosper in re- ligion. I have lately been sorely assaulted by Satan, and much blessed of the Lord. 1786.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 197 Va] Specially Wicked at Oourt Time, Tuesday, 27. | had a large congregation, and Di- vine aid. We hasted away to a little town called Washington—wicked enough at all times, but espe- cially now at court time. We had uncomfortable lodgings. Riding hard all day, and loss of sleep at night, never fail laying me under affliction. Md.] Bad Roads—Little to Eat—Uncomfortable Lodgings, Tuesday, Fuly 4. I came to Barratt’s, where God spoke to the hearts of a few souls, who were not a little moved. Here I was almost ready to drop for want of sleep. I found an appointment had been made for me at Friend’s Cove. I hesitated to go, but being unwilling to disappoint the people I set out, and must needs stray two miles out of my way to see a curious spring, which ebbs and flows, but not regularly. What with rocks and logs in our route, the way was so rough it was a mercy that ourselves and our horses escaped unhurt. I came to the Cove, and preached on Luke xi, 13. I have been greatly tempted to impatience and discontent. The roads are bad, my horse’s hind feet without shoes, and but little to eat. To this I may add that the lodgings are unclean and uncom- fortable. I rode across the mountain to Spurgin’s, where I met with a nuniber of serious souls. I do not repent coming fifteen miles. I preached on “That we may have boldness in the day of judgment.” I rode twenty-two miles to Foster’s, along a blind path, and-came in about nine o'clock, and was thank- ful. I have, in six days, ridden about one hundred 198 Character and Career of [1786. and fifty miles, on as bad roads as any I have seen on the continent. Va] Asbury at Bath for Health but Hard at Work. Sunday, August 6. I have spent twenty-three days at this place of wickedness, (Bath.) We are trying what can be done toward building a house for wor- ship. We collected something on the Sabbath for that purpose, and it appears the business is entered upon with spirit. My horse was running in the past- ure last week, and hurt himself, so that I find him utterly incapable of traveling, and’ that I am com- pelled to linger here another week. This, as it is, I am willing to do, for the sake of the people, the cause of God, and my health, and I am disposed to consider it a providential call, although I should not remain were my horse able to carry me away. I sent Brother B. to my appointments, and directed him when and where to appoint for me. My hopes revive here, and I trust my labor is not all in vain. Md] Slow Progress with the College. Monday, 21. Reached Mr. Gough’s, where I spent two days. The weather was very warm, but for one hundred miles and upward I have had it sufficiently agreeable. Came to Abingdon. Our college is still without a cover, and our managers, as I expected, almost out of breath. I made but little stay, but hasted on to Philadelphia, and arrived there on the twenty-sixth, Saturday. N. JJ Northward Again. Monday, 28. 1 came to Trenton, and thence pro- ceeded on to Brunswick. I was accidentally, or 1786.] Bishop Asbury [Mlustrated. 199 rather providentially, favored with a ride in a carriage, else I know not how I should have proceeded on my journey. N. YJ Asbury Ill in New York—His Journals, Thursday, 31. I reached New York, having trav- eled three hundred and fifty miles since I left Bath, in Virginia. I was taken ill, and was confined about eight days, during which time I was variously tried and exercised in mind. I spent some time in looking over my journals, which I have kept for fifteen years back. Some things I corrected, and some I expunged. Perhaps, if they are not published before, they will be after my death, to let my friends and the world see how I have employed my time in America. I feel the worth of souls, and the weight of the pastoral charge, and that the conscientious discharge of its important duties requires something more than human learning, unwieldy salaries, or clerical titles of D.D., or even bishop. The eyes of all, both preachers and people, will be opened in time. NJ] Among the Sands of New Jersey, Thursday, September 28. Since this day week we have ridden about one hundred and fifty miles over dead sands and among a dead people, and a long space between meals. At Oape May. Sunday, October 1. We stopped at the Cape, I find there is a great dearth of religion in these parts, and my spirit is clothed in sackcloth before the Lard. Tuesday, 3. At P. Cresey’s we had a few cold hear- ers. The glory is strangely departed, 200 Character and Career of [1786. Pa] Asbury Meets with Whatcoat in Philadelphia, Saturday, 14. Came to Sandstown. The weather very warm, and the people dull. I administered the sacrament, and rode away to Cooper’s ferry, where we left our horses and crossed to the city, (Phila- delphia.) Here I found Brother Whatcoat, with whom I took sweet counsel. Sunday, 15. I had some energy in speaking and at sacrament. In the afternoon it was a feeling time on “The Lord will give grace and glory.” Nd] A Flying Visit to New Jersey, Monday, 16. Rode to Holly, where I preached on “Come, ye blessed of my Father,” etc. ; and then at New Mills on “Suffering affliction with the people of God.” At Burlington I enlarged on “ Neither is there sal- vation in any other,” etc. These are not a zealous people for religion. Pa] Back to Philadelphia, Wednesday, 18. We returned to the city of Phila- delphia. Next day I preached, and was close and pointed. Friday, 20. 1 was led to treat on the sufferings of God’s people as entirely distinct from those they en- dure in common with other men, and certainly un- avoidable by all who are really alive to God. I found it necessary to change some official men, and to take proper steps in preparing to defray our Church debt, which is now 4500. I gave them a sermon on “ By this, shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye love one another.” 1786.] ' Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 201 Del.] Asbury in Dover. Monday, 23. I rode forty-five miles to Dickenson’s, in the Delaware State. Preached at Little Creek, and then rode five miles to Dover, and preached in the court-house. I bless God for peace of mind, and communion with him. Va] At Garrettson Chapel. Sunday, November 19. 1 rode about twenty miles through the rain to Garrettson Chapel, where about fifty whites and as many blacks met me, to whom I preached with liberty. Del,] At Lewistown Court-House, Monday, 27. I rode thirty miles to Lewistown, very unwell. I preached at Shankland’s, and the people were serious; but I was compelled to cease from speaking by a violent pain in my head, accompanied by a fever. Tuesday, 28. I preached in the court-house at Lewistown, and I trust the word went with some weight. The congregation was large. Ma] Good News from Talbot Circuit. Tuesday, December 5. I had a few people at Boling- brook, and spent the evening with Colonel Burck- head, who wants to know the Lord. He opened his mind to me with great freedom and tenderness. Brother White says that five hundred souls have joined society in this circuit (Talbot) this year, that half that number profess to have found the Lord, and more than one hundred to have obtained sanctifica- tion. Good news this, if true. 202 Character and Career of [1786. The College and Book Ooncern, Thursday, 21. Reached the college, and on Friday went to Baltimore, where I was in great haste to settle the business of the Book Concern and of the college. Saturday, 23. We called a meeting of the trustees, formed our constitution, and elected new members. I preached twice on the Sabbath, and ordained Wool- man Hickson and Joseph Cromwell to the eldership. I met the trustees and adjusted the accounts. We find we have expended upward of £2,000. We agreed to finish two rooms, and to send for Mr. Heath for our president. Va] Asbury Off to Virginia, On Tuesday I left town, and came to Annapolis about seven o'clock. Finding my appointments were not made, I determined to direct my course toward Alexandria. The Lord has been powerfully at work at Annapolis since I was here last autumn ; twenty or thirty whites and some blacks have been added to the society. I reached Alexandria, and on Saturday preached in the court-house on “If we suffer, we shall also reign with him.” Asbwy Begins the Year with Hard Work, Fanuary 1, 1787. Preached at Brother Moss’s on 2 Chronicles xv, 12, 13, on the people’s entering into covenant with God. Tuesday, 2. We rode near fifty miles on our way to Westmoreland. Next day, by hard riding, we came to Pope’s, in Westmoreland; but I have not been more weary many times in my life. 1787.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 203 Saturday and Sunday, Attended the quarterly meeting in the Northern Neck. There were many simple and loving testimonies delivered in the love- feast. A Famous Heroine for Christ. Wednesday, 17. I had a crowd of careless sinners at Mrs. Ball’s, who is a famous heroine for Christ. A lady came by craft and took her from her own house, and with tears, threats, and entreaties, urged her to desist from receiving the preachers and Meth- odist preaching, but allin vain. She had felt the sting of death some years before, and was a most discon- solate soul. Having now found the way, she would not depart therefrom. Asbury's Trust in Providence Oonfirmed. Saturday, February 3. Visited my old friend Full- ford. He is feeble in body, and not much at ease in his worldly possessions, yet happy in God. Brother Poythress frightened me with the idea of the Great Swamp, the east end of the Dismal; but I could not consent to ride sixty miles round, so we ventured through, and neither we nor our horses re- ceived any injury. Praise the Lord! Our passing unharmed through such dangers and unhealthy weather feelingly assures me that I am kept by the immediate interposition of his providence. I preached in the new chapel, I hope not in vain. I am now surrounded with waters and hideous swamps, near the head of Pasquotank River. N. 0.] Newhbern—Left the People as He Found Them. Thursday, 22. We set off for Newbern. Stopped at Kemp’s Ferry, kept by Curtis, where we were 204 Character and Career of [1787. kindly entertained gratis. I feel heaviness through labor and temptation, yet I am given up to God. Friday, 23. I arrived at Newbern. I felt the power of death as I journeyed along. We rode round the town, and could get no cestain information about preaching, Brother Cole being absent. We were at last taken in at Mr. Lathrop’s. The place and people were in such a state, that I judged, by my own feel- ings, it would be as well to leave them just as I found them, and so I did. 8. C.] Methodism obtains a Foot-hold in Georgetown and Charleston, Sunday, March 11. Preached at Robinson’s new court-house. Rode in the evening to M.’s. Crossed Little Pedee, stopped at S.’s, ate a morsel, and came on to Buck Swamp. Thursday, 15. Preached at the new church at S.’s. Here I heard that Doctor Coke was in Charleston. Proceeded thence to Widow Port’s, where I had much ado to prevail on Brother H. to stay. We rode nearly fifty miles to get to Georgetown. Here the scene was greatly changed—almost the whole town came together to hear the word of the Lord. We arrived in Charleston and met Dr. Coke. Here we have already a spacious house prepared for us, and the congregations are crowded and solemn. N. G] * Ooke and Asbury in Company. Saturday, April 14. We hasted to C y church, where we had many people. After riding twenty- two miles we had another meeting about six o’clock, and about midnight got to bed. Sunday, 1§. Rose about six o'clock, and went to 1787.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated, 205 Newman’s church, where the Doctor and myself both preached. The people were rather wild, and we were unwell. I came to Arnat’s at about eight o'clock, having ridden forty miles. The Doctor went by Dick’s ferry, and did not get in until near midnight. Monday, 16. Rode to Jeremiah White’s, and on Tuesday, about fifty miles to Page Mann’s, in Char- lotte county, Virginia. Wednesday, 18. Rode to Rough Creek. On Thurs- day, 19th, our conference began at William White’s. We had much preaching morning, noon, and night, and some souls were converted to God. Saturday, 21. I gave them a discourse on Jeremiah iii, 15 : “ And I will give you pastors according to my heart.” Sunday, 22. The Doctor spoke on the qualifications of a deacon, and J gave them a charge. Some said there were three thousand people to hear. It was a solemn, weighty time. Ma] Rapid Movements. Monday, May 6. After much fatigue and trouble our conference ended. We had some warm and close debates, but all ended in love and peace. We went forward to Perry Hall. Thence we went to Cokesbury. Drew a deed, or the conveyance of the property of the college, and settled our temporal mat- ters there. Wednesday, 9. Many attended at Elkton. Wewere received by the Rudolph family with great respect. Thursday, 10. We attended at Wilmington at noon, and at Chester at night. Friday, 11. We reached Philadelphia, where the 206 Character and Career of [1787. Doctor preached that and the following evening. Wé spent the Saddazh in the city, and on Monday came to Trenton, where we found a lifeless people. N. Jd Dr. Coke at Elizabethtown and New York, Tuesday, 15. The Doctor preached with life in the Episcopal church at Elizabethtown, and we had a good time. Wednesday, 16, Arrived in New York, and rested. On Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday the Doctor preached with great energy and acceptance. N. YJ Asbury on Long Island, Tuesday, 22. After long silence, I preached on “For Zion’s sake I will not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest.” Rode twenty miles on Long Island to Hempstead Harbor, and preached with some liberty in the evening. Iam now out of the city, and have time to reflect. My soul turns to its rest, and to its labor for souls, in which I can live more by rule. He Finds the Right Kind of Hearers, Sunday, 27. came to Harper's, where we have a little new house and about thirty members. I hope and expect, in a few years, to see a circuit of six weeks formed here, and four or five hundred mem- bers in society. The people on this island who hear the Gospel are generally poor, and these are the kind I want and expect to get. I have had great assist- ance and freedom in speaking. Ordains Ezekiel Cooper Deacon. Sunday, Fune 3. | had a gracious time on 2 Cor. iv, 1-4. Ordained E. Cooper adeacon. In the after- 1787.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 207 noon my soul had peace while I enlarged on. Matt. xviii, 15, to the end. In Great Union with the Church and the Lord, Sunday, 10. I had some life in preaching on Luke iv, 18, and in the afternoon on “I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent,” etc. I left the city in great union with the Lord and with the Church. My soul is variously exercised. I want the country air, and to live more in the spirit and solitude of prayer. Came to East Chester and preached in the shell of the new church on “ To-day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” The power of God was felt. I came to the Widow Bartoe's, where J lay sick fifteen years ago, and was treated with the greatest tenderness. May the Lord reward them all a hundred fold, and convert their souls!. “Will it Always be 80?” Tuesday 12. I found it the same at New Rochelle town as in time past. Will it always be so? If there is no change I shall trouble them no more. In the afternoon I rode to C.’s, where I labored many years ago, and there is some fruit remaining to this day. West Point, Saturday, 16. Rode over the mountain, and was gratified with the sight of a remarkable recess for the Americans during the last war. The names of Andre and Arnold, with which misfortune and treachery are so unhappily and intimately blended, will give celeb- rity to West Point, had it been less deserving of 208 Character and Career of [1787. notice than its wonderful appearance really makes it. It is commanded by mountains rising behind, and appears to be impregnable. There are block-houses on the east, and on the west stores, barracks, and fortifications. From West Point we crossed a high mountain and came to Newburg. N. Jd Asbury Stimulated by Large Congregations, Wednesday, 20. I came to Warwick, where I sup- pose not less than a thousand people were collected. I was very low both in body and spirit, but felt stirred up at the sight of such a congregation, and was moved and quickened while I enlarged on Gal. i, 4. I baptized some, and administered the sacra- ment to many communicants. Pa] Firebrands in Philadelphia, Wednesday, 27. We had a warm ride, through a fertile, pleasant country, to Trenton, and on Thurs- day, the 28th, to Philadelphia. Here I found T. V. had scattered fire-brands, and thrown dirt to bespatter us Friday and Saturday, 29, 30. Taken up in writing letters, packing up books, and begging for the college. Sunday, Fuly t. Preached three times in the city of Philadelphia—on Monday, to a few simple-hearted souls at Radnor. Vail At the Springs, Monday, 16. Set out for the Springs. In the first place we missed our way, then my baggage-horse ran back two miles. -I was tried not a little. O how sad the reflection that matters trifling as these should make a person so uneasy! We reached the Springs 1787.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 209 about seven o'clock. I preached the two following days with some satisfaction. By advancing £9 for nails and planks, I engaged Brother Eaton to have our chapel covered by the first of August. Mal A Good Time at Bell's and Barratt’s, Tuesday, 24. There were to have been great doings at Cumberland, but Mr. B., a minister, failed coming. I had a good time in Mr. Bell’s mill on “Thou art fairer than the sons of men.” We had feeling and weeping at Barratt’s ; my sub- ject, “I sleep, but my heart waketh,” etc., eight or nine verses. I feel a sweetness of spirit and much of the love of Christ. Came to Cressap’s. “At Jones's all Death! Death! Death!” Sunday, 29. At Jones’s all death! death! death! My mind was devoted to God. I administered the sacrament, but could find no openings. Rode to Old Town. Six years ago I preached in this place when there was scarcely a soul that knew any thing of God; now there are sixty in membership, many of whom are happy in the knowledge of the truth, We held a love-feast, and had a quickening time. Val “Life a Weariness without God, Love, and Labor.” Friday, August 10. 1 feel a calm within and the want of more life, and more love to God, and more pa- tience with sinners. I read my Testament. O what a weariness without God, and love, and labor! The first two weeks of my time at Bath have been spent in carrying on the building of the new chapel, reading Newton on the Prophecies, visiting, bathing, 210 Character and Career of [1787. etc. My soul has been under great trials at times ; hitherto the Lord has helped. Md A Week of Haste in Business, Sunday, September 9. Preached in the morning, my text, “Thou art fairer than the sons of men.” In the afternoon at Mr. Otterbein’s church, and at night on “They shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south,” etc. Large crowds attended. I was strait- ened in speaking. The following was a week of haste and business. Wednesday, I went to Perry Hall, thence to Cokesbury; fixed the price of board, and the time for opening the college. On /rzday, I returned to Baltimore. In the midst of business my mind is calm. Pal Asbury in Philadelphia, Tuesday, 25. I attended at Chester, and next day came to Philadelphia. I had liberty in speaking on Cant. v, 6-10. On Thursday and Friday, I had not freedom as I wished. I was seized with a violent headache, exceeding any thing, as I thought, I had ever felt. Saturday, 29. 1 felt a little better. My mind was stayed upon God. Sunday, 30. We had a good sacramental occasion. In the afternoon Brother Willis preached, and at night I had some enlargement on Ephes. iv, 17-19. Wednesday, October 3. I met the people, and ex- plained the nature and design of the college. Thursday, 4. 1 preached on the primitive design of the Church. 1787.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 211 Del.J Jacob Brush and Ira Ellis Ordained Deacons, Saturday, 13. Came to Dover very unwell, and Brother I. E. preached in my stead. Sunday, 14. Tread prayers, and preached on 2 Tim. ili, 10, and solemnly set apart Jacob Brush and Ira Ellis for the office of deacon. I trust it was a profit- able time. I spent two days at Thomas White's. Md.) Opening of Ookesbury College. Thursday, December 6. We opened our college, and admitted twenty-five students. I preached on “Trust in the Lord, and do good.” On the Saddath I spoke .on “O man of God, there is death in the pot;” and’ on Monday, “ They are the seed of the blessed of the Lord, and their offspring with them.” From Cokes- bury I came to Baltimore, where I was closely em- ployed, and much in haste about temporal concerns. Brother H. was Glad to Resign, Saturday, 15. I had a cold ride to Annapolis, and but few to hear me on Suzzday morning. Brother H. attempted to travel with me, but was soon glad to resign. My soul has been kept in peace, and for three weeks past I have enjoyed a most devoted frame of mind. “When I Awake I am Still With Thee,” Sunday, 23. I had a very little life in preaching to a few dead souls at Pope’s. On Monday, at Hutt’s, it was nearly the same both in preaching and sacra- ment. In the evening, at Brother Cannon’s, the Lord powerfuliy broke into my soul, and the cloud disap- 212 Character and Career of [1788. peared. That night, while sleeping, I dreamed I was praying for sanctification, and God very sensibly filled me with love, and I waked shouting Glory, glory to God! My soul was all in a flame. I had never felt so much of God in my life, and so I continued. This was on Christmas day—a great day to me. NG] Peter's Denial of His Master, Sunday, February 17, 1788. I had about five hun- dred hearers at Samson court-house, to whom I en- larged on Peter’s denial of his Master. 1. He was self-confident. 2. Followed afar off. 3. Mixed with the wicked. 4. Denied his discipleship, and then his Lord. Tuesday, 19. At Fayetteville I was unable to preach. Wednesday we pushed on for the south State, but be- ing unacquainted with the way, we fell ten miles too low, and after riding as many in the night, we ended our blunders and our fatigue for that day at S.’s, who used us kindly. §. G1 Oonference at Oharleston—Riotous Demonstrations, Friday, March 14. Our conference began, and we had avery free, opentime. Saturday night I preached on “I have set watchmen upon thy walls,” etc. On the Sabbath, on “The Lord turned and looked on Peter,” etc. It was a gracious season, both in the congregation and in the love-feast. While another was speaking in the morning to a very crowded house, and many outside, a man made ariot at the door. An alarm at once took place, the ladies leaped out at the windows of the church, and a dreadful confusion ensued. Again, while I was speaking ar night, a 1788.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 213 stone was thrown against the north side of the church, then another on the south, and a third came through the pulpit window and struck near me in- side the pulpit. I however continued to speak on ; my subject, “ How beautiful upon the mountains,” etc. Upon the whole, I have had more liberty to speak in Charleston this visit than I ever had before, and am of opinion that God will work here. But our friends are afraid of the cross. Ga] Conference in Georgia, Wednesday, April 9. Our conference began at the Forks of Broad River, where six members and four probationers attended. Brother Major was sick, and could not meet us. Soon after he made his exit to his eternal rest. Thursday and Friday, 10, 11. I felt free, and preached with light and liberty each day. Many that had no religion in Virginia have found it after their removal into Georgia and South Carolina. Here at least the seed sprung up, wherever else it may have been sown. Our little conference was about sixty-one pounds deficient in their quarterage, nearly one third of which was made up to them. 8. G] Journeying in South Oarolina. Sunday, 13. I called at a Presbyterian meeting- house, and heard Mr. Hall, the minister, preach a good sermon on Isa. lv. After meeting we rode to Brother Moore's, twenty miles on the Seleuda. Monday, 14. Was almost entirely occupied with writing letters to the north. 214 Character and Career of [1788. Tuesday, 15. I had many people at the Widow Bowman’s. While here we had a most awful storm. I was afraid the house would come down. We rode in the night to M. Moore’s. I was seized with ill- ness on the way, which continued during the night. Next day, however, I was able to pursue my journey. N. GJ An Awful Journey, Sunday, 27. I preached at the Globe, on the main branches of John’s River, where there are a few who fear God. There was some stir, and I hope some good done. Monday, 28. After getting our horses shod we made a move for Holstein, and entered upon the mountains, the first of which I called steel, the second stone, and the third iron mountain. They are rough and difficult to climb. We were spoken to on our way by most awful thunder and lightning, accom- panied by heavy rain. We crept for shelter into a little dirty house where the filth might have been taken from the floor with a spade. We felt the want of fire, but could get little wood to make it, and what we gathered was wet. At the head of Watauga we fed, and reached Ward’s that night. Coming to the river next day, we hired a young man to swim over for the canoe, in which we crossed while our horses swam to the other shore. The waters being up, we were compelled to travel an old road over the mount- ains. Night came on, I was ready to faint with a violent headache, and the mountain was steep on both sides. I prayed tothe Lord for help. Presently a profuse sweat broke out upon me, and my fever entirely subsided. About nine o’clock we came to 1788. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 215 Grear’s. After- taking a little rest here we set out next morning for Brother Coxe’s on Holstein River. I had trouble enough. Our route lay through the woods, and my pack-horse would neither follow, lead, nor drive, so fond was he of stopping to feed on the green herbage. I tried the lead, and he pulled back. I tied his head up to prevent his grazing, and he ran back. The weather was excessively warm. I was much fatigued, and my temper not a little tried. I fed at I. Smith’s, and prayed with the family. Arriv- ing at the river, I was at a loss what to do, but prov- identially a man came along who conducted me across. This has been an awful journey to me, and this a tiresome day, and now, after riding seventy- five miles, I have thirty-five miles more to General Russell’s, I rest one day to revive man and beast. Va] Asbury in Virginia. Saturday, May 3. We came to General Russell's ; a most kind family in deed and in truth. Sunday, 4. Preached on Phil. ii, 5-9, I found it good to get alone in prayer. Tuesday, 6. J had many to hear at Easley’s on Holstein. I was much wearied with riding a strange horse, having left mine to rest. It is some grief that I cannot be so much in prayer on the road as I would be. We had a good time and a large congre- gation at K.’s. Tenn.] Conference in Tennessee. Monday, 12. Came to Half-Acres and Keywoods, where we held conference three days, and I preached each day. The weather was cold, the room without 216 Character and Career of [1788. fire, and otherwise uncomfortable. We nevertheless made out to keep our seats until we had finished the essential parts of our business. Thursday, 15. We came to General Russell’s, and on Friday to I. Smith’s, on the south fork of Holstein River. N. GC] Forty-five Miles a Day. Friday, 23. Was a damp, rainy day, and I was unwell with aslow fever and pain in my head. How- ever I rode to Smith’s chapel and preached, and thence to Brother Harrison’s, on Dan River, and preached. In the space of one week we have ridden, through rough, mountainous tracts of country, about three hundred miles. Brothers Poythress, Tunnell, and myself have had serious views of things, and mature counsels together. Asbury Can Bear Methodist Noise. Monday, Fune 2. Preached at Moore’s in North- ampton ; once a poor, dead people, but now revived, and increased from eleven to sixty members. We had much of the power of God at Clark’s. Sixty members, among whom are some children, are’ the subjects of this work. I feel life among these people. Preaching and praying is not labor here. Their noise I heed not; I can bear it well when I know that God and Christ dwell in the hearts of the people. Thence I passed through Southampton, where I also beheld the power of God manifested in several lively meetings. 1788.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 217 Va.) Qonference in Virginia, Rode to and rested with Philip Davis. On Saturday I had a feeling, living time on Psa. Ixxxv, 9, 10. Sunday, 8. We had a gracious season : it was a mem- orable day, and my soul was much blessed. After meeting we hastened to Petersburg, where I preached on 2Cor. v, 20. Our elders and deacons met for con- ference ; all things were brought on in love. The town folks were remarkably kind and attentive; the people of God in much love. Crossing the Alleghany, . Thursday, Fuly 10. Wehad to cross the Alleghany Mountain again at a bad passage. Our course lay over mountains and through valleys and the mud and mire was such as might scarcely be expected in December. We came to an old, forsaken habitation in Tyger’s Valley. Here our horses grazed about, while we boiled our meat. Midnight brought us up at Jones’s, after riding forty, or perhaps fifty miles. The old man, our host, was kind enough to wake us up at four o’clock in themorning. We journeyed on through devious, lonely wilds, where no food might be found, except what grew in the woods or was carried with us. We met with two women who were going to see their friends, and to attend the quar- terly meeting at Clarksburg. Near midnight we stopped at A——’s, who hissed his dogs at us; but the women were determined to get to quarterly meet- ing, so we wentin. Our supper was tea. Brothers Phoebus and Cook took to the woods ; old gave up his bed to the women. TI lay along the floor on a 218 Character and Career of [1788. few deer-skins with the fleas. That night our poor horses got no corn, and the next morning they had to swim across the Monongahela. After a twenty ‘ miles’ ride we came to Clarksburg, and man and beast were so outdone that it took us ten hours to accom- plish it. I lodged with Col. Jackson. Our meeting was held in a room belonging to the Baptists. Our use of the house gave offense. There attended about seven hundred people, to whom I preached with free- dom ; and I believe the Lord’s power reached the hearts of some. After administering the sacrament I was well satisfied to take my leave. “The Lame and the Blind” Sunday, August 17. Tattempted to preach at Bath on “The lameand the blind :” the discourse was very lame; and it may be I left my hearers as I found them—dLind. Ma. Asbury at Work for Cokesbury Oollege. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, September 15, 16, 17, were spent at Cokesbury in examining and arranging the temporal concerns of the college. Pa] Conference at Philadelphia, Sunday, 21. I preached with some satisfaction, morning and evening, in Philadelphia. On Monday our conference began and held until Friday, 26. NJ] Asbury at Elizabethtown, Sunday, 28. Preached in Elizabethtown. N.Y] Conference at New York. Monday, 29. Rode to New York. Next day (Tues- day, 30) our conference began, and continued until Saturday, the 4th of October. 1788. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 219 NJ Asbury Returms Through New Jersey. Sunday and Monday, October 5, 6. My soul was uncommonly led out in prayer and preaching—I found it a very gracious season. My return brought me through Elizabethtown, Amboy, Hydestown, Crosswecks, and Burlington. Del.] Again in Dover. Sunday, 12. I was much depressed in spirit while in Philadelphia. I left there on Wednesday, and preached at Chester, where I had some energy ; and had openings at Wilmington and Duck Creek, where I also administered the word of life. Monday, 20. Our meeting in Dover was attended with some power. At Milford we had liberty and love. At Johnstown I was very unwell, and was un- der the necessity of going to bed, but our friends were alive: God is with them of a truth. Preached at Shankland’s. My soul enjoys great peace and love. On Sunday I was under bodily affliction, but I went to the Court-house and spoke a few words on “Ve will not come to me that ye might have life.” We have a house now building, and I hope something will be done here. Va.) For and Against Slavery. Saturday, November 1. Attended a quarterly meet- ing at Garrettson Chapel. O how changed! A preacher absent nearly nine weeks from his circuit, failing to give proper notice of the quarterly meeting. Other persuasions are less supine; and their min- ister boldly preaches against the freedom of the 220 Character and Career of [1788. slaves; our Brother Everett, with no less zeal and boldness, cries aloud for liberty—emancipation. Sunday, 2. Brother Whatcoat preached, and I ex- horted a little. We rode fifteen miles that evening, and held meeting again. Ma.) Methodists Emancipate their Slaves. At Annamessex quarterly meeting I was at liberty on Rev. iii, 20. Again I preached on “ Fear not, lit- tle flock,” etc. Most of our members in thése parts have freed their slaves. Del.] A Shout Among the People. Saturday and Sunday, 22, 23. Attended quarterly meeting at William Frazier’s. -There was some quickening among the people each day. We crossed Choptank to Bolingbroke—death ! death! The second day of our meeting a great power went through the congregation, and a noble shout was heard among the people. I was much led out at the Bayside. At Doctor Allen’s I was greatly comforted, after a wet ride of thirty miles. I preached at Queenstown to a few people, who appear to be far gone in forgetfulness of God. Ma.) Attempt to Burn Cokesbury Oollege. Monday, December 8. Rode to Cecil Court-house, and had a profitable time. We crossed Elk River to Brother Ford’s, and had a gracious meeting at his house. Tuesday, 9. We had a damp ride to Cokesbury, and found it was even as it had been reported to us. An attempt had been made to burn the-college by putting fire into one of the closets; but some of the 1788.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 221 students made a timely discovery, and it was extin- guished. I stayed two days and expended more than A100, and felt my spirit tried. I put the young men to board in the college. We have some promising youths among them for learning, but they want religion. @ came to Baltimore, and found some tokens of the Divine Presence, at the quarterly meeting, on Chron. xv, 8, “Thou canst save by many, or by those that have no might.” Va.] An Offensive Smell of Rum. Christmas day. 1 preached in the open house at Fairfield’s, on Isaiah ix, 6. I felt warm in speaking ; but there was an offensive smell of rum among the people. NG] The Lord at Work—Good Times. Saturday and Sunday, Fanuary 17, 18, 1789. Preached at Whitaker’s Chapel, where we had a prof- itable time. I found God had been working, and that many souls had been awakened. We came to J.’s._ In this neighborhood the Chris- tians are singularly devoted, but sinners yet stand it out. The Lord has begun to work on Sandy Creek, in Franklin County, whére twenty souls have been lately brought to God. Came to Bemnet Hills, hun- gry and unwell. My soul enjoys much of God. 8.0] Hunger, Fatigue, and Fever. Tuesday, February 3. Came to the Green Ponds, where there was an appointment for me. I have ridden about one hundred and forty miles in the last seven days, through a very disagreeable part of the country to travel when the waters are high: I have 222 Character and Career of [1789. had various exercises, and have suffered hunger, fatigue, and fever, and have not had a comfortable bed for a week past. Coke and Asbury Find a Pulpit Competitor. Thursday, 26. Rode to Bruten’s, and enjoyed un- common happiness in God. Some time in the night Dr. Coke came in; he had landed in Charlestor® about three hours after I left the city; next day he and myself both spoke at Ridgell’s. Sunday, March 1. We spent the day at Chester’s. We had a very few hearers, occasioned, in part, by a black man’s preaching not far distant. Ga] Georgia Conference on Education, Sunday, 8. Our conference began at Grant’s. Here we have a house for public worship, and one also at Merreweather’s. On Zhursday we appointed a com- mittee to procure five hundred acres of land for the establishment of a school in the State of Georgia. Conference being ended, we directed our hasty steps back to Charleston, calling at the several places we attended on our journey hither. 8 0.) Charleston Conference—Unkind Attack. Sunday 15. We reached the city, having ridden two hundred miles in about five days and two hours. Here I received a bitter pill from one of my greatest friends. Praise the Lord for my trials also—may they all be sanctified ! Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 17, 18, 19, were spent in conference. It was a time of peace and love. My mind was much hurried with book and other temporal concerns. We had an unkind attack pub- 1789.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 223 lished against us relative to our slave rules; it was answered to purpose. I had not much doubt who the author of this unworthy work was. N. 0.1 Asbury Oares for the Indians, Wednesday, April 1. The people came together at Jackson’s at twelve o'clock. I did not reach there until three. I enlarged a little on Zech. xii, 12, and was somewhat severe. I rode to Savannah Creek, and met with an Antinomian people._ Reached Threadgill’s, after having been out twelve hours, and ridden nearly forty miles, without food for man or beast. friday, 3. Preached by the way, and came to Randall's, twenty miles. We have ridden three hun- dred miles in about nine days, and our horses’ backs are bruised with their loads. I want more faith, patience, and resignation to the will of God in all things. I wish to send an extra preacher to the Waxsaws to preach to the Catawba Indians: they have settled among the whites on a tract of country twelve miles square. Va.) Conference at Leesburg. Friday, 24, We rode about fifty miles, and next day reached Fredericksburg, but found no door open. We met with one soul in distress. Sunday, 26. Having no appointment to preach, we pushed on and rode forty-five miles, and lodged in Prince William county. Monday, 27. Arrived at Leesburg, and opened the conference. We found a little rest comfortable to man and advantageous to beast. 224 Character and Career of [1789. Md] Conversions in Baltimore and Ookesbury Oollege, Sunday, May 3, was a great day to saints and sin- ners. God has wrought wonderfully in Brother Pig- man’s neighborhood. Fifty or sixty souls have been suddenly and powerfully converted to God. Came to Baltimore, and had very lively meetings. Multitudes came to hear, and great cries were heard among the people, who continued together until three o’clock in the morning. Many souls professed to be convicted, converted, sanctified. On reaching Cokesbury we found that here also God was working among the students. One, how- ever, we expelled. We revised our laws, and settled our temporal concerns. Nd] Conference at Trenton. Thursday, 21. Rode to Burlington, in Jersey. In crossing the Delaware we encountered an uncommon storm, but were providentially brought safely over. We were comfortable in our meeting, but we had a painful interview and explanation with L. H. H. O my soul, keep near to God! Friday, 22. We rode to Trenton, and on Saturday, 23, opened our conference in great peace. We labored for a manifestation of the Lord’s power, and it was not altogether in vain. N. Y.] The Work Opens in New York State and in New England. Thursday, 28. Our conference began. All things were conducted in peace and order. Our work opens in New York State. New England stvetcheth out the hand to our ministry, and I trust thousands will shortly feel its influence. In the midst of haste I find peace within. 1789.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 225 Sunday, 31. We had a gracious season to preach- ers and people, while I opened and applied Isaiah xxv, 6-8. Dr, Coke Sails for England. Friday, Fune 5. Dr. Coke left us and went on board the Uzzox for Liverpool. My soul retires into solitude, and to God. This evening I was enabled to speak alarmingly, and felt my heart much engaged for about thirty minutes on Isaiah xxix, 17-19. The power of God and a baptizing ftame came among the people. Asbury in Duchess County. Sunday, 14. Preached at Jackson’s, in Duchess county, to a considerable number of quiet hearers ; I hope not in vain. Brother Cook is low in body, but his soul is solidly happy in God, who will be glorified in his life or death. The people here area still kind of folks ; but God can work ina storm or a calm. “The Poor First,” Friday, 19. I preached in a barn on the North River. My hearers were chiefly Low Dutch. Our congregations are small. Thecraftisindanger. We are therefore not to wonder if we meet opposition. To begin at the right end of the work is to go first to the poor, these wr//, the rich may possibly hear the truth. There are among us those who have blun- dered here. JI feel as if I wanted to get across the river. Iam pressed in spirit, and pity our preachers who labor here. It seems as if I should die among this people with exertions and grief. 15 226 Character and Career of [1789. N. 0] “No Desire to See Them Again,” Thursday, 25. I was sick. Brother Whatcoat gave them a sermon at Warwick on the “wages of sin,” and I gave them a finishing exhortation. I have no desire to see them again until there is some change. Pa] Asbury Not Satisfied with Results in Philadelphia, Friday, Fuly 3. Came to Philadelphia. Here I found enough to do. My soul longs for more religion in this city. I am distressed for these people. Twenty years have we been laboring in Pennsylvania, and there are not one thousand in society. How many of these are truly converted God knows. Sunday, 5. We had a dead time. O that the Al- mighty would bless and stir up this people! Not Cordially Received at Cazlisle, Friday, 10. I called on Mr. H., a Dutch Presby- terian minister. He and his wife were both very kind. I believe they are children of God. I had an interview with Mr. M., a Lutheran minister and teacher of languages. He isa child-like, simple- hearted man, and has a considerable knowledge of the arts and sciences. We came to York, but I felt no desire to preach. I proceeded on to Carlisle. In the morning I was permitted to preach in the church, but in the evening this privilege was denied me. It was said the reason was, because I did not read prayers, which I had forborne to do because of my eyes. I apprehend the true cause might be found in the pointed manner in which I spoke on “ Blessed is he whosoever shall not be offended in me.” J went to the court-house and called them to repentance 1789. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 227 from “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all ye ends of the earth,” to the great offense of all who set themselves up for judges, and who declared it was no preaching. Md] Candidates for the Ministry Increasing. friday, 31. I crossed the mountain, and lodged, I trust for the last time, at S.’s. Preached at Barratt’s to a dry, unfaithful people. The number of can- didates for the ministry are many ; from which cir- cumstance I am led to think the Lord is about greatly to enlarge the borders of Zion. Vad “Not Born to Riches.” e Friday, August 7. Came to Bath. I took lodgings with our Virginia friends, Adams and Summers. Saturday, 8. My soul has communion with God even here. When I behold the conduct of the people who attend the Springs, particularly the gentry, Iam led to thank God that I was not born to riches. I have read much and spoken but little since I came here. The water has been powerful in its operation. I have been in great pain, and my studies are interrupted. A High Day at Shepherdstown. Saturday, 29. Our quarterly meeting began in the woods near Shepherdstown. We had about seven hun- dred people. I felt energy and life in preaching, and power attended the word. Brother Willis spoke, and the Lord wrought powerfully. Sunday, 30. Was a high day—one thousand or fifteen hundred people attended; sinners began to e 228 Character and Career of “T1789. mock, and many cried aloud. I was wonderfully led out on Psalm cxlv, 8-12, and spoke, first and last, nearly three hours. O how the wicked contradicted and opposed ! Ma] “A Wonder-working Time.” Monday, September 7. Preached at Rowle’s. Here fifty or sixty souls profess to have been brought to God in a few weeks. We had a shout, and a soul converted to God. I preached in the evening at Bal- timore on “ Lord, increase our faith.” Tuesday, 8. Preached in town and at the Point. The last quarterly meeting was a wonder-working time: fifty or sixty souls appeared to be brought to God ; people were daily praying from house to house, some crying for mercy, others rejoicing in God, and not a few joining in society for the benefit of a relig- ious fellowship. Praise the Lord, O my soul! I spent some time in visiting from house to house and begging for the college. The married men and sin- gle men, the married women and single women, I met apart and was comforted. Many of the children of the Methodists are the happy subjects of this glorious re- vival. We have more members in Baltimore (town and Point) than in any city or town on the continent besides. A Death at Cokesbury. Monday, 21. Rodein the evening to Cokesbury. I found I. Steward had gone to his final rest. He was a pious lad who kept too close to his studies. He praised God to the last, even when he was delirious. It made the students very solemn for a season. 1789. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 229 N. J] A New Church at Burlington, Tuesday, October 6. After twenty years’ preaching they have built a very beautiful meeting-house at Burlington ; but it is low times there in religion. At New Mills both preachers and people appeared to feel, and the watch-night was attended with some breathings after God. Thursday, 8. We had a poor, dry meeting at Mount Holly. Some were alarmed with fear, lest we should make a noise as we had done in Philadel- phia. Some dear country friends felt the Lord pow- fully, and carried home the flame. Del.] Dedication at Wilmington. Wednesday, 14. I preached at Wilmington, on the dedication of our newchapel. Thus far are we come after more than twenty years’ labor in this place. Thursday, 15. I preached at Dickinson’s. Here we have a good house built, and a blessed founda- tion of living stones fixed on the chief Corner-stone. After preaching at Severson’s and Duck Creek Cross-Roads, we came on Saturday to Dover quarter- ly meeting. Here the congregation was large and serious. A Charity School, Monday, November 2. I rode forty miles to Mag- goty Bay, and preached toa few people. The Antino- mians please them and gain them—alas! for us. O that the Lord would send an earthquake of his power among them! Tuesday, 3. We ee an open time at Brother 230 ‘Character and Career of (1789. J.’s.. The school for the charity boys much occu- pies my mind. Our annual expenditure will amount to two hundred pounds, and the aid we get is but trifling. The poverty of the people, and the general scarcity of money, is the great source of our difficul- ties. The support of our preachers who have fami- lies absorbs our collections, so that neither do our elders nor the charity school get much. We have the poor, but they have no money ; and the worldly, wicked rich we do not choose to ask. Ma] The “Saints of the World Displeased.” Saturday, 7, At Annamessex quarterly meeting the Lord was among the people.. Swzday, at the love-feast, the young were greatly filled, and the pow- er of the Most High spread throughout. It appeared as if they would have continued till night if they had not been in some measure forced to stop that we might have public worship. I spoke on Isa. lxiv, 1-5. There were very uncommon circumstances of a su- pernatural kind said to be observed at this meet- ing. The saizts of the worldare dreadfully displeased at this work, which, after all, is the best evidence that it is of God. Ookesbury—Council Held in Baltimore, Sunday, 29. I preached at Duck Creek. Stopped and gave them a discourse at Middletown, and spent the evening with a worthy, kind friend. A number of dear old brethren accompanied me to Cokesbury, where we had an examination of the boys, and stationed eleven on charity. Thence we hastened on to Baltimore. 1789. ] Bishop Asburg [lustrated. 231 Thursday, December 3. Our council was seated, con- sisting of the following persons, namely, Richard Ivey, from Georgia; R. Ellis, South Carolina; E. Morris, North Carolina; Phil. Bruce, North District of Vir- ginia ; James O’Kelly, South District of Virginia; L. Green, Ohio; Nelson Reid, Western Shore of Mary- land; J. Everett, Eastern Shore; John Dickins, Pennsylvania ; J. O. Cromwell, Jersey ; and Freeborn Garrettson, New York. All our business was done in love and unanimity. The concerns of the college were well attended to, as also the printing business. We formed some resolutions relative to economy and union, and others concerning the funds for the relief of our suffering preachers on the frontiers. We rose on the eve of Wednesday following. During our sitting we had preached every night; some few souls were stirred up, and others converted. The prudence of some had stilled the noisy ardor of our young people, and it was difficult to rekindle the fire. Iscollected about twenty-eight pounds for the poor suffering preachers in the West. We spent one day in speaking our own experiences, and giving an account of the progress and state of the work of God in our several districts. A spirit of union pervades the whole body, producing most blessed effects and fruits. Va] Faithfully Warned, Fanuary 1,1790. No appointment for preaching. We are bound to the South, and shall proceed on as fast as we can. Saturday, 2. We were refreshed in the evening. Next day (Sabbath) I preached at Chickahominy 232 Character and Career of [1790. church once more. Sinners, pharisees, backsliders, hypocrites, and believers, were faithfully warned, and of all these characters there were, doubtless, a goodly number in the large congregation which at- tended. James 0'Kelly—Restless, Tuesday, 12. From Mabry’s we came to Bruns- wick quarterly meeting, where there was a considera- ble quickening and manifestation of the Lord’s power. We had a good meeting at Roanoke chapel. I re- joiced that society had increased to more thana hun- dred souls. I received a letter from the presiding elder of this district, James O’Kelly. He makes heavy complaints of my power, and bids me stop for one year or he must use his influence against me. Power! power! There is not a vote given ina coriference in which the presiding elder has not greatly the advantage of me. All the influence I am to gain over a company of young men in a district must be done in three weeks. The greater part of them, perhaps, are seen by me only at conference, while the presiding elder has had them with him all the year, and has the greatest op- portunity of gaining influence. This advantage may be abused ; let the bishops look to it. But who has the power to lay an embargo on me, and to make of none effect the decision of all the conferences of the union ? N. 0.) Asbury Sweeps Through the Counties, Tuesday, 26. Since we crossed Roanoke River we have passed through Warren, Granville, Wake, Chat- 1790. | ‘Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 233 ham, Orange, Randolph, and Richmond counties, in North Carolina. After passing Hedge Cock Creek I preached at Night’s chapel on “My grace is sufficient for thee.” There was some quickening, and I was blest. It is no small exercise to ride twenty miles or more, as we frequently do, before twelve o’clock, taking all kinds of food and lodging, and weather too, as it comes, whether it be good or bad. 8. 0] Good News—All Partake of the Joy. Wednesday, February 10. Came to Charleston. Here I received good news from Baltimore and New York ; about two hundred souls have been brought to God within a few weeks. We feel a little quick- ening here. Brother Whatcoat preaches every night. Saturday, 13. The preachers are coming in to the conference. I have felt fresh springs of desire in my soul for a revival of religion. O may the work be general! It is a happy thing to be united as is our society. The happy news of the revival of the work of God flies from one part of the continent to the other, and all partake of the joy. Qharleston Conference Resolves to Establish Sunday-Schools. Wednesday, 17. I preached on “If thou take forth the precious from the vile, thou shalt be as my mouth.” It was a searching season; several spoke and prayed, and we had noise enough. The even- ing before an extract of sundry letters from New York and Baltimore was read in the congregation, at which saints and sinners were affected. But we have not a sufficient breastwork. Our friends are 234 Character and Career of [1790. too mute and fearful, and many of the ozdz-doors people are violent and wicked. Our conference resolved on establishing Sunday-schools for poor children, white and black. Ga.] Preachers’ Salaries and Deficiencies, Wednesday, March 10. Our conference began at Grant’s. We had preaching every day, and there were some quickenings among the people. Our busi- ness was conducted in peace and unanimity. The deficiencies of the preachers, who receive a salary of sixty-four dollars per annum from this conference, amounted to seventy-four pounds for the last year. Wesley and Whitefield School. Thursday, 11. We had a rainy day, yet a full house, and a living love-feast. Some souls were converted, and others professed sanctification. I had some opening in speaking from Ezek. ii, 7, We have a prospect of obtaining a hundred ‘acres of land for every one hundred pounds we can raise and pay for the support of Wesley and Whitefield school. On Monday we rode out to view three hundred acres of land offered for the above purpose. My soul has been much tried since conference began, I must strive to keep from rising too high or sinking too low. 8. 0] Six Hundred Miles in Three Weeks, Sunday, 21. Preached to a quiet people, and had a small stir. We had a meeting in the evening at Brother Smith’s. Monday, 22. 1 feel myself unwell with a sick and nervous headache. We have traveled about six hun- 1790.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 235 dred miles in about three weeks, besides the time taken up in conference. Thou, Lord, wilt have mer- cy, and save both man and beast! I expect Provi- dence brought us this way, to pity and to help the people. Dear Brother and Sister S. are unspeakably kind. X06.) Asbury Contemplating Death. friday, 26. Rode about twenty-two miles. Stopped at Colonel Graham’s, dripping wet with rain. He received us, poor strangers, with great kindness, and treated us hospitably. We had awful thunder, wind, and rain. I was still unwell with a complaint that terminated the life of my grandfather Asbury, whose name I bear; perhaps it will also be my end. We were weather-bound until Mozday morning, the 29th of March. For several days I have been very sick and serious. I have been enabled to look into eternity with some pleasure. I could give up the church, the college, and schools; nevertheless, there was one drawback—What will my enemies and mis- taken friends say? Why, that he had offended the Lord, and he hath taken him away. In the after- noon I felt somewhat better. Brother Whatcoat preached a most excellent sermon on “ The kingdom of God is not in word but in power” —not in senti- ments or forms, but in the convincing, converting, regenerating, sanctifying power of God. Thunder and Lightning and Yelling of Wolves. Monday, April 5. We made an early move. After worming the stream for awhile we took through the Laurel Hill, and had to scale the mountains, which in some places were rising like the roof of a 236 Character and Career of [1790. house. We came to the head of Watauga River, a most neglected place. We passed by W.’s, a poor lodging, and slept at the Beaver Dam in a cabin with- out a cover, except what a few boards supplied. We had very heavy thunder and lightning, and most hideous yelling of wolves around, with rain, which is frequent in the mountains. Tenn,] Condition of the Preachers, Wednesday, 7. We reached Nelson’s chapel about one o'clock, after riding about eighteen miles. Now it is that we must prepare for danger in going through the wilderness. I received a faithful letter from Brother Poythress in Kentucky, encouraging me to come. I found the poor preachers indifferently clad, with emaciated bodies, and subject to hard fare; yet T hope they are rich in faith. A Great Load for a Little Horse, Monday, 12. We loaded Brother Anderson’s little horse with my great bags and two pair smaller, four saddles, with blankets and provender. We then set out and walked ten miles, and our horses were brought to us, and those who brought them were pleased to take what we pleased to give. Brother A. sought the Lord by fasting and prayer, and had a strong impression that it was the will of God that I should not go with that company. A Poor Sinner Highly Offended. Tuesday, 13. We came back to A.’s—a poor sin- ner. He was highly offended that we prayed so loud in his house. He is a distiller of whisky, and boasts 1790. ] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 237 of gaining £300 per annum by the brewing of this poison. We talked very plainly, and I told him that it was of necessity, and not of choice, we were there. Perhaps the greatest offense was given by my speak- ing against distilling and slave-holding. Two Thousand Five Hundred Miles in Two Months, From December 14, 1789, to April 20, 1790, we compute to have traveled two thousand five hundred and seventy-eight miles. Hitherto hath the Lord helped. Glory! glory to our God! Va] Indian Murders. Wednesday, 28. We had a dreary ride down to the Ford of Clinch through a solitary plain. Many at- tended at L.’s. We rode down to Blackmore’s station. Here the people have been forted on the north side of Clinch. Poor Blackmore has had a son and daughter killed by the Indians. They are of opinion here that the Cherokees were the authors of this mischief. I also received an account of two families having been killed, and of one female that was taken prisoner, and afterward retaken by the neighbors and brought back. Friday, 30. Crossed Clinch about two miles below the fort. In passing along I saw the precipice from which Blackmore’s unhappy son leaped into the river after receiving the stroke of a tomahawk in his head. I suppose, by the measure of my eye, it must be between fifty and sixty feet descent. His com- panion was shot dead upon the spot. This happened on the 64 of April, 1789. 233 ' Character and Career of [1790. We came a dreary road over rocks, ridges, hills, stones, and streams, along a blind, tortuous path, to Moccasin Gap and Creek; thence to Smith’s Ferry across the north branch of Holstein. Here I found some lies had been told on me, but feeling myself innocent, I was not moved. ° A Guard from Kentucky—Asbury's Dream. Monday, May 3. 1 preached at Brother Payne's, and had some encouragement among our Maryland people. Sabbath night I dreamed the guard from Kentucky came for me, and mentioned it to Brother W. In the morning I retired to a small stream for meditation and prayer, and while there saw two men come over the hills. I felt a presumption that they were Kentucky men, and so they proved to be; they were Peter Massie and John Clark, who were coming for me, with the intelligence that they had left eight men below. After reading the letters, and asking counsel of God, I consented to go with them. Ky.] A Journey Through the Wilderness—Graves of the Slain. Tuesday, 11. Crossed Kentucky River. I was strangely outdone for want of sleep, having been greatly deprived of it in my journey through the wilderness ; which is like being at sea, in some re- spects, and in others worse. Our way is over mount- ains, steep hills, deep rivers, and through muddy creeks ; a thick growth of reeds for miles together, and no inhabitants but wild beasts and savage men. Sometimes, before I am aware, my ideas would be leading me to be looking out ahead for a fence, and I would, without reflection, try to recollect the houses 1790. ] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 239 we should have lodged at in the wilderness. I slept about an hour the first night, and about two the last. We ate no regular meal; our bread grew short, and I was tnuch spent. I saw the graves of the slain—twenty-four in one camp. I learn that they had set no guard, and that they were up late, playing at cards. A poor woman of the company had dreamed three times that the Indians had surprised and killed them all; she urged her husband to entreat the people to set a guard, but they only abused him, and cursed him for his pains. As,the poor woman was relating her last dream the Indians came upon the camp; she and her husband sprung away, one east the other west, and escaped. She afterward came back, and witnessed the carnage. These are some of the melancholy accidents to which the country is subject for the present. As to the land, it is the richest body of fertile soil I have ever beheld. Asbury Holds a Conference in Lexington. Thursday, 13. Our conference was held at Brother Masterson’s; a very comfortable house, and kind people. We went through our business in great love and harmony. I ordained Wilson Lee, Thomas Will- iamson, and Barnabas M’Henry, elders. We had preaching noon and night, and souls were converted and the fallen restored. My soul has been blessed among those people, and I am exceedingly pleased with them. I would not, for the worth of all the place, have been prevented in this visit, having no doubt but that it will be for the good of the present and rising generation. It is true, such exertions of mind and body are trying, but I am supported under 240 Character and Career of [1790. them ; if souls are saved it is enough. Brother Poy- thress is much alive to God. We fixed a plan for a school, and called it Bethel, and obtained a subscrip- tion of upward of three hundred pounds, in land and money, toward its establishment. Return Journey—Asbury Adjutant and Quartermaster. Monday, 24. We set out on our return through the, wilderness with a large and helpless company: we had about fifty people, twenty of whom were armed, and five of whom might have stood fire. To pre- serve order and harmony, we had articles drawn-up for, and signed by, our company, and I arranged the people for traveling according to the regulations agreed upon. Some disaffected gentlemen, who would neither sign nor come under discipline, had yet the impudence to murmur when left behind. The first night we lodged some miles beyond the Hazel-patch. The next day we discovered signs of Indians, and some thought they heard voices; we therefore thought it best to travel on, and did not encamp until three o’clock, halting on the east side of Cumberland River. We had gnats enough. We had an alarm, but it turned out to be a false alarm. A young gentleman, a Mr. Alexander, behaved exceedingly well, but his tender frame was not ade- quate to the fatigue to be endured, and he had well- nigh fainted on the road to Cumberland Gap. Brother Massie was captain, and finding I had gained au- thority among the people, I acted somewhat in the capacity of an adjutant and quartermaster among them. At the foot of the mountain the company separated; the greater part went on with me to 1790. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 241 Powell’s River. Here we slept on the earth, and next day made the Grassy Valley. Several of the company, who were not Methodists, expressed their high approbation of our conduct, and most affection- ately invited us to their houses. The journeys of each day were as follows: Monday, forty-five miles ; Tuesday, fifty miles; Wednesday, sixty miles. Tenn] General Russell's a Favorite Stopping-place. Thursday, 27. By riding late we reached Captain Amie’s, where I had a bed to rest on. friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 28, 29, 30, I spent at General Russell’s, whose wife was converted since I left the house last. I thought then that she was not far from the kingdom of God. N. 0.) Qonference on the Yadkin River. Tuesday, Fune t..I rode about forty-five miles to Armstrong’s, and next day reached M’Knight’s on the Yadkin River, in N.C. Here the conference had been waiting for me nearly two weeks. We rejoiced together, and my brethren received me as one brought from the jaws of death. Our business was much matured, the critical concern of the council under- stood, and the plan, with its amendments, adopted. Saturday and Sunday, 5, 6, were days of the Lord’s presence and power—several were converted. We had an ordination each day. We have admitted into full connection some steady men, with disposi- tions and talents for the work. Va.) Conference at Petersburg. Monday, 14. Our conference began ; all was peace until the council was mentioned. The young men 16 242 Character and Career of [1790. appeared to be entirely under the influence of the elders, and turned it out-of-doors. I was weary, and felt but little freedom to speak on the subject. This business is to be explained to every preacher, and then it must be carried through the conferences twenty-four times, that is, through all the conferences for two years. We had some little quickenings, but no great move among the people at our public preach- ing. Mr. Jarratt preached for us ; friends at first are friends again at last. There were four elders and seventeen deacons ordained: ten young men who offered to travel, besides those who remained on trial. We have good news from a far country: Jersey flames with religion ; some hundreds are converted. The work of God does revive here, although not in the same degree as it did two years ago. In the midst of all my labor and trouble I enjoy peace within, “Alone Before the Lord.” Monday, 21. We had the Divine presence in our worship at Sister Stringer’s. I am often blessed at the houses of the fatherless and widows. Now, I say to my body, return to thy labor ; to my soul,.re- turn to thy rest and pure delight in reading, medita- tion, prayer, and solitude. The shady groves are wit- ness to my retired and sweetest hours. To sit, and melt, and bow alone before the Lord, while the melody of the birds warbles from tree to tree, how delightful ! Pa,] Conference at Uniontown. Saturday, Fuly 31. 1 spoke on education, from Prov. xxii, 6. ° I was led to enlarge on the obligations 1790.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 243 of parents to their children, and the nature of that religious education which would be most likely to fit them for this, and which alone could qualify them for the next world. Sunday, August 1. I ordained C. C., I. L, and G. C., elders, and four deacons. Here there is a revival among preachers and people. Some of the societies are much engaged with God, and after we have had a few more conferences in Uniontown I hope we shall drive Satan out, and have a glorious work. Va] Asbury’s Spirit of Meekness, Wednesday, 25. Our conference began at Lees- burg, and we continued together until the Sabbath following, and had a happy time of peace and union. To conciliate the minds of our brethren in the south district of Virginia, who are restless about the council, I wrote their leader a letter, informing him “that I would take my seat in council as another member,” and, in that point at least, waive the claims of episcopacy ; yea, I would lie down and be trodden upon, rather than knowingly injure one soul. Ma] Students at Cokesbury—Exercises, Friday, September 3. At night I preached in Balti- more: “O Ephraim! how shall I give thee up?” Monday, 6. Our conference began ; was conducted in great peace and union, and ended on Wednesday, 8. Thursday, 9. I rode to Cokesbury. Friday, 10. In the morning philosophical lectures were delivered, and in the afternoon the boys de- jivered their orations, some parts of which were exceptionable, and duly noticed. 244 Character and Career of [1790. Saturday, 11. We made some regulations relative to the order and government to be observed in the college. Sunday, 12. I preached in the college hall on Matt. XXV, 31, to forty-six scholars. Brothers D. and C. spoke after me. Pa.] A New Ohapel in Philadelphia—(Bbenezer.) Monday, 20. I reached the city of Philadelphia. Our brethren have built a new chapel, thirty feet square, at the south end of the city. I feel myself fatigued and unwell, occasioned by riding a rough- going horse. Tuesday, 21. This day was spent in reading, writ- ing, and visiting. “I Must Needs Go Through Samaria,” Wednesday, 22. The conference began in poor Pennsylvania district; all was peace and love. Our printing is in a good state. Our society in the city of Philadelphia are generally poor ; perhaps it is well. When men become rich they sometimes forget they are Methodists. I am weak and have been busy, and am not animated by the hope of doing good here. “T must needs go through Samaria.” N. J.J The Wicked Rage—God Triumphs, Monday, 27. Rode to Burlington, the place ap- pointed for our next conference. Here I preached on “Searching Jerusalem with candles,” and it was a searching season. On Zwuesday night we had a shout—then came the bulls of Bashan and broke our windows. It was well my head escaped the vio- lence of these wicked sinners. I hope the strong 1790.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 245 power of Satan will feel a shake this conference. The session has been in great peace. Harmony has prevailed, and the council has been unanimously adopted, Wednesday, 29. We had a love-feast, and a genuine sweet melting ran through the house. S. Strattan stood up and declared he had followed the work of God for six months, and that he believed six hundred souls had professed conversion in that time. There is a most genuine work in several places, namely, in Flanders, Trenton, Burlington, Salem, and Bethel circuits. Glory to our wonder-working God! All hail, eternal Father, co-equal Son, and everlasting Spirit, in time and forever! Amen and amen!! N. YJ The New Church. Sunday, October 3. I preached at the old church, and in the afternoon at the new, on Matt. xxv, 31-46. The new church is commodious, elegant, yet plain. Monday, 4. We began our conference, and sat with close application to business until Thursday morning. All was peace, order, and unanimity. On Thursday evening I returned to Elizabethtown. Pa,] Asbury in Philadelphia, Sunday Morning, 10, was rainy. I preached at St. George’s church, and again in the evening. H. Willis is come hither to settle himself in life, and will prob- ably go into trade. The Church has thereby lost, in part, a faithful servant. Del.] Sister Dickinson, Friday, 15. 1 did not reach Dickinson’s in time; however, I spoke a little. I found Sister Dickinson 246 Character and Career of [1790. wrapped in clay, whom I left sick about three weeks ago. She has been an attentive, devoted woman, has washed the saints’ feet, and kindly served the dear servants of God, and I trust her soul is now in peace. I spoke a little at Duck Creek Cross-Roads, where nearly thirty members have been added to the society since last conference. Weighty Matters, Monday, 18. At Thomas White’s my soul has been made to feel very solemn. A view of the remarkable work of God ; the death of some, and the deep spirit- uality of others ; the sending out young men for the ministry, and the providing for the fatherless. and widows ; these are all weighty matters, and greatly occupied my mind. In the midst of all my soul panteth after God. Val “If They Will Shout, Why Let Them Shout.” Monday, November 1. I preached at Accomack court-house on Rom. i, 16. We had a weighty season. A poor man, who had lately professed re- . ligion, appeared to be somewhat distracted. He has been a vile sinner, but I hope he will recover his right mind; the family is subject to derangement. There are some unreasonable things among the people here; but we are afraid of gathering out the tares, lest we should root up the wheat also. We must continue to observe the order of God and our own discipline, attend to preaching, prayer, class-meeting, and love-feast ; and then, if they will shout, why let them shout. 1790. } Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 247 Md] Henry Ennalls: Converted and His Slaves Freed, Tuesday, 9. We had a gracious love-feast in Dor- set, and I addressed parents very seriously on Deut. vi, 67. I lodged with Brother Henry Ennalls, who, with his wife, has been powerfully brought to God. His slaves were freed immediately. His sister, Nancy Bassett, has gone to rest; the other two have fol- lowed the example of a dear brgther. God has heard their prayers. Ookesbury—Students Examined. Sunday, 21. At Cecil quarterly meeting, held at Dickinson’s, we had many people and some life. On Monday 1 rode to Dr. Clayton’s, and next day to Cokesbury, where I continued until d/onday, the 29¢k, We then examined the students relatively to learning and religion, paid debts, and put matters in better order. We have forty-five boys. The chari- table subscriptions to the establishment amount to 4300 per annum, Va.) A Comprehensive Wish. Monday, December 20. The weather softening, I made haste to get across the Rappahannock, and ° reached Brother B.’s, about twenty-five miles. I found myself much chilled by my ride. My soul has been kept in great peace, and almost in constant prayer. I wish to feel so placid as not to have any acid in my temper, nor a frown or wrinkle on my brow; to bear all things, do all things, suffer all things, from the ignorance or weakness of the chil- dren of God, or the wickedness of the sons and daughters of Satan. I think my soul momently pants after more of God. Be 248 Character and Career of (1791. The Lord at Work in Virginia, Wednesday, Fanuary 5, 1791. We had a blessed time at Norfolk while I applied Zech. xii, 10. Many praised the Lord aloud. I was closely employed until the moment I left town. I find the Lord has wrought in Norfolk, Portsmouth, and the country round about. N.C) “Hail, Happy Dead!” Saturday, 22. Crossed Neuse River, at Smith’s ferry, and came to the dwelling of the late General Hardy Bryan, a man I had often heard of and wished to see. But death, swift and sudden, reached the house before me. His son H. died the 18th of last November, his daughter Mary December 28th, and himself the roth instant. Each of them feared the Lord and were happy souls. Sunday, 23. I had very great opening on 1 Thess. iv, 13, 14. It was on the occasion of the late lamented deaths. Surely this is loud preaching—it is one of the most awakening scenes of my life. How soon were these dear souls justified, sanctified, and called ' home to glory! Hail, happy dead! We toil below, but hope, erelong, with you to sing God’s praise above. “As Happy as Princes in a Palace.” Tuesday, February 1. Thad a large congregation at the Sand Hills, Feeling myself enlarged in spirit, although weak in body, I entered very extensively into the nature and excellences of the Gospel. We administered the Lord’s Supper, and had a shaking among the people. Brothers L. and B. were there, 1791.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 249 and we rejoiced in the Lord together. We were honored with a little cabin at a distance from the other houses, about eight feet wide and nine feet long, and were as happy as princes iu a palace. 8. 6] A Great Change in Six Years. Tuesday, 8. We came a long, dreary way, missed our road, and at last reached Brother S.’s, a distance of twenty-five miles, which our wandering made thirty miles. I rejoice to find that this desert country has gracious souls in it. O how great the change in the flight of six years! We have now many friends and some precious souls converted to God. Glory be to the Lord most high! The misconduct of other men is my grief, but not my sin, so I will trust God with “his own cause. Friday, 11. We set out for Black River from about six miles above Kingston, having Bull Run, Bramble Island, and great Pedee to cross. Reaching Black River, we were compelled to turn aside to Mr. S.’s plantation, where we procured provender for our horses and breakfasted on our own tea. Dr. Ooke Returns to America. Wednesday, 23. Long-looked-for Doctor Coke came to town. He had been shipwrecked off Edisto. I found the Doctor’s sentiments with regard to the council quite changed. James O’Kelly’s letters had reached London. I felt perfectly calm, and acceded to a general conference for the sake of peace. Ga.] The Work in Georgia Dead—Causes, Sunday, March 13. Came to Georgetown at Oge- chee Shoals and found Satan was there. I leveled 250 Character and Career of [1791. away on the parable of the sower. Icame to Brother H.’s. Heard heavy tidings. My soul is calm. Let the Lord look to his own house. I hasted to Scott’s. Doctor Coke came in time enough to preach, and then we opened a conference. We sat very closely to our work, and had some matters of moment to attend to in the course of our deliberations. I have ridden about two hundred and fifty miles in Georgia, and find the work in general very dead. The peace with the Creek Indians, the settlement of new lands, good trade, buying slaves, etc., take up the attention of the people. 8. 0.) White and Red Indians, Saturday, 26. We had white and red Indians at Catawba; the Doctor and myself both preached. I had some conversation with the chiefs of the Indians about keeping up the school we have been endeavor- ing to establish among them. I asked for one of their children, but the’ father would not give consent, nor would the child come. My body is weak, but my mind has heaven and peace within. We closely employed our intervals of leisure in preparing different tracts for the press. Va. Dr. Coke and Asbury Working Together. Sunday, April 10. Doctor Coke and myself both . preached at Watson’s church, and there was some little effect produced. I spent the evening with George Adams, a true son of his worthy father, Sil- vanus Adams, for kindness to the preachers. We moved from G. Adams’s to the Widow Dick’s, and thence, next day, to Brother Marten’s. 1791.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 251 Wednesday, 13. Came to Difficult church, where we were honored with the company of some of the great. The Doctor preached a noble sermon on the Divinity of Christ, and I urged, “ It is time to seek the Lord.” Afterward we preached in Charlotte and Mecklen- burg, and on Sunday following came to quarterly meeting at Sister Walker's in Brunswick. Doctor Coke went to the barn, and I preached in the house. The rain rendered our meeting uncomfortable. News of Wesley's Death! Asbury’s Estimate of His Character. Friday, 29. The solemn news reached our ears that the public papers had announced the death of that dear man of God, John Wesley. He died in his own house in London, in the eighty-eighth year of his age, after preaching the Gospel sixty-four years. When we consider his plain and nervous writings ; his uncommon talent for sermonizing and journaliz- ing; that he had sucha steady flow of animal spirits ; so much of the spirit of government in him; his knowledge as an observer; his attainments as a scholar; his experience as a Christian; I conclude his equal is not to be found among all the sons he hath brought up, nor his superior among all the sons of Adam he may have left behind. Brother Coke was sunk in spirit, and wished to hasten home imme- diately. For myself, notwithstanding my long ab- sence from Mr. Wesley, and a few unpleasant ex- pressions in some of the letters the dear old man has written to me, (occasioned by the misrepresentations of others,) I feel the stroke most sensibly ; and, I ex- pect, I shall never read his Works without reflecting on the loss which the. Church of God and the world 252 Character anit Career of [1791. has sustained by his death. Dr. Coke, accompanied by Brother C. and Dr. G., set out for Baltimore in order to get the most speedy passage to En- gland, leaving me to fill the appointments. I had a large congregation at Sister Bombry’s. In the after- * noon I rode to Sister Waller’s, making a journey of forty miles for this day. Next day I overtook Dr. Coke and his company at Colchester. At Alexandria Dr. Coke had certain information of. Mr. Wesley’s death. On Sabbath day he reached Baltimore, and preached on the occasion of Mr. Wesley’s death, and mentioned some things which gave offense. Ma.) Conferences at Baltimore and Duck Oreek, Thursday, May 5. This day and the two following days we held conference in Baltimore, and great love and sweetness prevailed throughout the sitting. I preached to a large congregation on the Saddazh, and we had a gracious time. Monday, 9. Came to Cokesbury. I found there was a vast demand for money for the establishment, there having been an expenditure of 4700 in five months. Tuesday, 10, Crossed Susquehanna and came to Cecil, and next day reached Duck Creek. Our conference began, and was conducted in much peace and harmony among-preachers and people. Our meetings in public were attended with great power. Sunday, 15. Two elders and three deacons were ordained. After the ordination I rode to Middle- town, Del., and preached to a large congregation. 179E.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 253 Pa] Last Interview with Dr, Coke, Monday, 16. I rode to New Castle, and had the last interview with Dr. Coke. Inthe evening I came to Chester, and the next day (the 17th) arrived in Philadelphia and opened conference. We had a ten- der, melting account of the dealings of God with many souls, and settled our business in much peace. Mr. Hammett came from Charleston with a wonder- ful list of petitioners desiring his return. To this, as far as I had to say, I submitted ; but —--_—_—_ I see and hear many things that might wound my spirit if it were not that the Lord bears me up above all. Nd] Eighteen Years Ago, Sunday, 22. I preached in Trenton on Joel ii, 17. Several preachers exhorted, and the Lord made sin- ners tremble. Eighteen years ago I often slipped away from Philadelphia to Burlington one week, and Trenton another, to keep a few souls alive. I had then no conferences to take up my time and occupy my thoughts ; and now—what hath God wrought ! We attended to the business of the conference with a good spirit. In the course of our sitting we had some pleasing and some painful circumstances to ex- cite our feelings. N. Y.] Conference in New York—Asbury Preaches on the Death of Wesley. Thursday, 26. Our conference came together in great peace and love. Our ordinary business was en- livened by the relation of experiences, and by profita- ble observations on the work of God. 254. Character and Career of [1791. Nothing would satisfy the conference and the society but my consenting to preach on the occa- sion of Mr. Wesley’s death, which I did on Suzday, May 29. My text was 2 Tim. iii, 10, 11. Monday, 30. Our conference rose, and after love- feast the preachers dispersed. We had had about thirty preachers at this conference, and not a frown, a sign of sour temper, or an unkind word was seen or heard among us; but I am sick, and quite out- done with constant labor. Mr. Hammett’s preaching was not well received ; it was supposed to be aimed at our zealous men and passionate meetings. At the new church his preaching was still more exceptiona- ble to those judicious persons who heard him. I ex- pect some things will be retailed to my disadvantage. Be it so—I trust the Lord. Qonn.]’ Asbury in Connecticut—A Close Observer. Saturday, Fune 4. I rode over rocks and hills, and came to Wilton, and preached to a serious, feeling, well-behaved people at Squire R.’s. In the even- ing I went on to Reading. Surely God will work powerfully among these people, and save thousands of them. This country is very hilly and open—not unlike that about the Peak of Derbyshire. I feel faith to believe that this visit to New England will be blessed to my own soul and the souls of others. We are now in Connecticut, and never out of sight of a house; and sometimes we have a view of many churches and steeples, built very neatly of wood, either for use, ornament, piety, policy, or interest— or it may be some of all these. There may have been a praying ministry and people here, but I fear they 1791.] Bishop Asbury [Mlustrated. 255 are now spiritually dead, and am persuaded that fam- ily and private prayer is very little practiced. Could these people be brought to constant, fervent prayer, the Lord would come down and work wonderfully among them. I find my mind fixed on God and the work of God. His Reception at Stratford. Tuesday, 7. We came to Stratford. Good news— they have voted that the town-house shall be shut. Well, where shall we preach? Some of the selectmen —one at least—granted access. I felt unwilling to go, as itis always my way not to push myself into any public house. We had close work on Isa. lv, 6, 7; some smiled, some laughed, some swore, some talked, some prayed, some wept. Had it been a house of our own, I should not have been surprised had the windows been broken. I refused to preach there any more, and it was well I did, for two of the esquires were quite displeased at our admittance. We met the class, and found some gracious souls. The Methodists have a society consisting of twenty members, some of them converted, but they have no house of wor- ship. They may now make a benefit of a calamity— being denied the use of other houses, they will the more earnestly labor to get one of their own. The Presbyterians and the Episcopalians have each one, and both are elegant buildings. Reception at New Haven, Thursday, 9. Came to New Haven, and found my appointment to preach had been published in the newspapers. Every thing was quiet. We called on 256 Character and Career of [1791. the sheriff, but he was absent. We then put up our horses at the Ball tavern, near the college yard. I was weary and unwell. I had the honor of the President S., Dr. W., and the Rev. Mr. E., to hear me, and several of the collegians, with a few scattering citizens. I talked away to them very fast, telling them some little stories, while the sun shone full in my face. The judges looked very grave while I endeavored to show: 1. What we must be saved from ; 2. What has been esteemed by the men of the world as the wisdom of preaching ; 3. What is meant by the foolishness of preaching. When I had done, no man spoke to me. I thought to-day of dear Mr. Whitefield’s words to Mr. Boardman and Mr. Pilmoor at their first coming over to America. “Ah!” said he, “if ye were Calvinists ye would take the country before ye.” We visited the college chapel at the hour of prayer. I wished to go through the whole, to inspect the interior arrangements, but no one in- vited me. The divines were grave, and the students were attentive ; they used me like a fellow-Christian, in coming to hear me preach, and like a stranger in other respects. Should Cokesbury or Baltimore ever furnish the opportunity, I, in my turn, will requite their behavior by treating them as friends, brethren, and gentlemen. The difficulty I met with in New Haven for lodging, and for a place to hold meeting, made me feel and know the worth of Methodists more than ever. Favored by the Standing Order at Middletown. Lord’s Day, 12. Came in haste to Middletown, where the committee favored me with the meeting-house 1791.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 257 belonging to the standing order. 1 felt exceedingly low in body while I spoke to a large, serious, and at- tentive congregation, and I had liberty in preaching on I John iii, 23. After meeting we rode a mile out of town to get lodging. It was to the poorer classes of people that this preaching on love and charity was anciently blessed. New London. Tuesday, 14. New London stands upon the River Thames—almost newly built since the war. This town suffered in the general burning carried on by Arnold in this quarter. The new meeting-house stands on an eminence ; the Episcopal church is a pleasant, well-formed building. The New-Light Baptists were very kind, and some of them appeared like Methodists. My church was the court-house—my subject 2 Pet. iii, 15. I was not happy in speaking. Brother L. gave them a sermon at half past eight o’clock. I under- stood there was a work of religion in this place last year ; little of it now remains. I came to Stoning- ton, properly so called, a distance of ten miles, over a most dreadful road for a carriage. I would almost as soon undertake to drive over the Alleghany mountain. From Stonington I came on to Westerly, crossing the line-bridge between Connecticut and Rhode Island. I dropped a few words to the woman of the house where we dined, and saw very clearly that she felt them. I had some life in speaking to about one hundred people, at Mr. ’s, in Charlestown, on Rev. iii, 20. One said I had fitted the people well ; another said that I had the signs pf the times. 17 258 Character and Career of [1791. BR. I] Churches and Religion at Newport. Thursday, 16, Came to Newport. The roads were comparatively good; the ferry three miles wide, which, however, we safely crossed in a spacious open boat, excellent in its kind. In Newport are two Presbyterian meeting-houses—one, New-Divinity, so called; three others, regular Baptists, New-Lights, and Sabbatarians; one Friends’ meeting, and one Episcopal church. We stayed two nights at our friend’s, Brother Green, a New-Light Baptist. I lect- ured the second night from Isaiah Ixiv, 1-7; there was some life among the people, although it was late, and the congregation like our Lord’s disciples before his passion. There is alsoa Jew’s synagogue and a Moravian chapel. I expect before many years the Methodists will also have a house for worship here. Providence in 1791. Sunday, 19. Came to Providence. I attended the ministry of Mr. M.,a Baptist, in the forenoon, and Mr. S., a New-Light, in the afternoon. In the evening I preached with some life on Isaiah 1xi, 1-3. There are Presbyterians, Episcopalians, Indepen- dents or Congregationalists, here, but the Baptists appear to be the leading people. I found a few gracious souls, and some seeking. Mr, Snow—Tennent and Whitefield, Monday, 20. I visited some serious families that truly love and fear God. The afternoon I spent very agreeably with the old prophet Mr. Snow, aged about seventy years. He was awakened by the instrumen- 1791.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 259 tality of Gilbert Tennent, whose memory I revere. He told me much about Mr. Whitefield, and old times, and of the ministers of old times—of himself, his awakening, and conversion to God—of his riding thirty miles to Newport, in exceeding cold weather, to bring Mr. Tennent to Providence. Mass] Boston in 1791, Thursday, 23. We rode through dust and heat to Boston. I felt much pressed in spirit, as if the door was not open. As it was court-time, we were put to some difficulty in getting entertainment. It was ap- pointed for me to preach at Murray’s church—not at all pleasing to me; and that which made it worse was, that I had only about twenty or thirty people to preach to in a large house. It appeared to me that those who professed friendship for us were ashamed to publish us. On Friday evening I preached again. My congregation was somewhat larger, owing, per- haps, to the loudness of my voice, for the sinners were noisy in the streets. My subject was Rev. ili, 17, 18. I was disturbed, and not at liberty, although I sought it. I have done with Boston until we can obtain a lodging, a house to preach in, and some to join us. Some things here are to be admired in the place and among the people—their bridges are great works, and none are ashamed of labor. Of their hospitality I cannot boast. In Charlestown, wicked Charles- town, six years ago, a stranger, I was kindly invited to eat and drink by many—here by none. Lynn the Perfection of Beauty. I preached at Slade’s tavern, on my way to Lynn, on “If our Gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are 260 Character and Career of [1791 lost.” I was agreeably surprised to find a house raised for the Methodists. As a town I-think Lynn the perfection” of beauty: it is seated on a plain, under a range of craggy hills, and open to the sea. There is a promising society—an exceedingly well- behaved congregation. Thesé things, doubtless, made all pleasing to me. My first subject was Rom. viii, 33, in the afternoon Acts iv, 12. Here we shall make a firm stand, and from this central point shall the light of Methodism and of truth radiate through the State. Our Brother Johnson is simple-hearted, and hearty in the cause. We owe our entertainment and house for worship chiefly to him. Sympathy for the Inhabitants of Marblehead. Tuesday, 28. Rode to Marblehead. When I en- tered this town my heart was more melted toward its inhabitants than to any in those parts, with the exception of Lynn. After consultation, and some altercation among themselves, the committee invited me to preach in Mr. Story’s meeting-house, which I did accordingly at four o’clock on Acts xxvi, 17, 18. I was led to speak alarmingly, while I pointed out the Gospel as descriptive of their misery and need of mercy. Brother Lee preached in the evening to a great number of people in and about Mr. Martin’s house. Next morning, weak as I was, I could not forbear speaking to them on “ Seek ye first the kingdom of God.” Visits Salem. Wednesday, 29. Rode to Salem. Here are five meeting-houses, two of them on the New-Divinity plan—that is, regeneration the first work, no prayer, 1791.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 261 repentance, or faith until this is accomplished ; the other three belong to the Establishment, one Episco- palian and one Friends’ meeting-house. I found no access to any. I lectured in the court-house on Rom. v, 6-9. I looked upon the greater part of my congregation as judges, and I talked until they, be- coming weary, began to leave me. An Annual General Conference Proposed. Thursday, Fuly 7. This day Brother Jesse Lee put a paper into my hand, proposing the election of not less than two nor more than four preachers from each conference, to form a general conference in Baltimore, in December, 1792, to be continued annually. Conn.] A Characteristic of the People. friday, 22. The Episcopal Church was opened at Litchfield, where I preached, with very little faith, on the love of Christ. I think Morse’s account of his countrymen is near the truth. Never have I seen any people who talk so long, so correctly, and so seriously about trifles. N.Y.) “See if the Methodists do not Work their Way.” Friday, 29. Came to Albany. My mind felt im- pressed with the value of the souls in this place. By the curves I have made in my course from Hartford to this place, I suppose I have not traveled less than one hundred and fifty miles. Perpetual motion is no small trial to my body and mind, but I must cast my care upon the Lord. I am led to think the eastern Church will find this saying hold true of the Meth- odists, namely, “I will provoke you to jealousy by a 262 Character and Career of [1791. people that were no people ; and by a foolish nation will I anger you.” They have trodden upon the Quakers, the Episcopalians, the Baptists—see now if the Methodists do not work their way. The people will not pay large money for religion if they can get it cheaper. I preached to about three hundred in a barn at Coeyman’s Patent, the new stone church not being ready. Our society is promising in this place. A Qonstant Walk with God. Wednesday, August 3. The day was unusually warm, and I was sick. I was ready to faint in my carriage. At last, through mercy, I arrived safe at kind Sister L.’s. I went to bed, took some chicken broth, and after a comfortable sleep felt revived. No more rest; I took the road again, and arrived at Rhinebeck by noon. My soul is in peace. I want more prayer, patience, life, and love. I walk daily, hourly, and sometimes minutely, with God. Nature's Carpet and Umbrella. Sunday, 7. We received the sacrament, and then went to a small grove, where we had a green carpet of nature’s spreading underneath and an umbrella of variegated leaves above us. I preached on Zech. xli, 10, to about a thousand or twelve hundred people, as it was judged. I had some faith to believe it would be the beginning of days, and of a revival of religion. Conn] Asbury in Salisbury and Sharon, Preached at Salisbury on Acts v, 31, 32. My mind is in peace. I came to Sharon time enough to preach at three o’clock. The women crowded the 1791. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 263 house, while the men stood at the door with patient attention, in the rain, which indeed many seemed scarcely to perceive. I spoke with life and freedom on Ephes. ii, 8-10. Here are some praying souls. I read, much to my comfort, Corbit’s Memoirs of the Secrets of his Heart, brought to public view after his death. N. YJ “All for God, and Obrist, and Souls.” Friday, 12. 1 preached at B.’s, on Luke xix, 40, to a number of simple-hearted people. Rode to Brother J.’s to attend quarterly meeting. I felt weak and unwell, yet happy in God. My soul enters into deep- er union with God, and into sweet resignation and confidence in him for his work and Church. I judge that my journey to Lynn, and my rides through the country thereabouts, have made a distance of but lit- tle less than five hundred miles; thence to Albany nearly the same, and from Albany to New York not much less, with occasionally very rough roads for a carriage. Well, it is all for God, and Christ, and souls. I neither covet nor receive any man’s silver or gold; food, raiment, and a little rest, is all I want. Brief Definition of Christian Perfection. Wednesday, 17. Felt a good degree of liberty at B’s on Col. i, 28. Ours is not the perfection of God, of Christ, of angels ; such perfection must be ours as excludes evil tempers from the heart, and yet supposes us liable to ignorance and error while in tenements of clay. As I came along to P.’s I was ready to complain of the roughness of the roads, but I was suddenly stopped when I beheld a poor Irish- 264 Character and Career of [1791. woman with a heavy child on her shoulders, and without covering for head or feet. She said she was from Canada, and thus far had begged her way. Pity for her at once stilled all murmur of complaint for myself. N. 0 Monmouth and Long Branch, Monday, September 5. 1 rode through much rain to Monmouth, New Jersey, where I preached to a considerable congregation on “ The just shall live by faith ; but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” There is some stir among the people. At Long Branch, within eighteen months, as Iam informed, nearly fifty souls have professed conversion. Pad Asbury Rejoicing. Wednesday, 28. We rode to Strasburg, thirty miles, where I preached at night in a respectable tavern on Acts iii, 19. I was very plain, and had some energy in preaching, although unwell in body. Thence to M. B.’s. Hitherto the Lord hath been our helper in spite of sin and Satan. We had a good time while I spoke on Zechariah xii, 10. After sacrament several bore their testimony for the Lord. My soul is much humbled, and brought into close communion with God; yea, I rejoiced greatly to find so much religion among the people. We went hence to Brother M.’s, where, for two days, we had a gracious season. Dell “Not a Moment’s Desire of Any Thing but God.” Came to Wilmington. Alas for poor Wilmington! When will this people open their eyes? We rode in 1791.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 265 haste thirty miles to D.’s, but the people had met three hours before our arrival, and Brother E. had preached to them: I preached at the Cross Roads, but the minds of the people were so occupied by the approaching election that I fear there was little room for things of more importance. Finding there were no more appointments published for me, I rode, through the dust, thirty-two miles to Judge White’s. O Lord, help me to watch and pray! I am afraid of losing the sweetness I feel. For months past I have felt as if in the possession of perfect love ; not a mo- ment’s desire of any thing but God. After attending a quarterly meeting at B.’s chapel I came to W.’s. We had a large congregation. After public service we had a meeting for the local preachers, leaders, and stewards. Next morning we had love feast for. the colored brethren at sunrise, and at nine o'clock for the whites. We find: new members are added every year; many living experiences and miracles of grace in this society. Ma.] Asbury Begging Money for Cokesbury. Monday, December 5. 1 went from house to house, through the snow and cold, begging money for the support of the poor orphans at Cokesbury. Rode to Annapolis and preached at night. Va.) Crossing the Potomac. Wednesday, 7. A day to be remembered. We stopped once in forty-three miles. When we reached Oxen Hill Ferry, opposite to Alexandria, I was nearly frozen, being hardly able to walk or talk. We crossed the Potomac in an open boat, on whose icy bottom the horses with difficulty kept their feet, and 266 Character and Career of [1792. still worse it would have been had I not thought- fully called for straw to strew beneath them. We had five of them on board, and the waves were high. Norfolk and Portsmouth, Sunday, Fanuary 1, 1792. On this beginning of the new year I preached and had liberty on Isaiah Ixv, 1,2. In the evening I once more cried to the people of Norfolk, “Repent, and be converted.” My audience was attentive and tender. My body was greatly fatigued, my soul much comforted in the Lord. Religion revives here ; the seed which has been sowing for twenty years begins to spring up. Norfolk flourishes ; Portsmouth declines, and is al- ready low. N. G@] Asbury's Route through North Carolina. Friday, 27. After riding thirty miles through ice and snow to Rainey’s, I found many people waiting for me, and I began, without any refreshment, to speak on “ This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” In our route through North Carolina we passed through Bertie, Gates, Tyrrel, Tarborough, Franklin, Wake, Chatham, Orange, Guilford, and Randolph counties. We have traveled nearly eight hundred miles since the 774 of December last past. Seldom have I been tempted to a mur- muring thought. It is now the 29¢h of Fanuary. 1 want nothing but more mental and private prayer. Tuesday, 31. Yesterday and to-day we have ridden about sixty miles, a great deal of the. way through heavy hail and rain. I gave an exhortation at C.’s on seeking the kingdom of God. Here we had all things richly to supply our wants ; and what was still better, we found the Lord had souls in his family. 1792.] Bishop Asbury [llustrated. 267 8. 6.] Mr, Hammett’s Objections, Saturday, February 1. Arrived in Charleston. I received a full and true account of Mr. Hammett’s proceedings. Brothers E. and P. have done ali things well. Mr. Hammett had three grand objec- tions to us: 1. The American preachers and people insulted him. 2. His name was not printed in our Minutes. 3. The nota bene cautioning minute was directed against him. We were considered by him as seceders from Methodism !—because we do not wear gowns and powder, and because we did not pay sufficient respect to Mr. Wesley! Conference at Charleston. Tuesday, 14. Our conference began. I preached at night on Luke xxiv, 17, and endeavored to show the low estate of the interests of Christ at that time. In our conference we were unusually close in examina- tion of characters, doctrines, and experience. We had great peace and some power among us, and re- ceived the good news of eighty souls being converted in Philadelphia. I preached a sermon to the preach- ers on “Endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” Ga] Georgia Conference—Searching and Sifting. Tuesday, 28. We rode through the snow to Little River, and a few people met us at S.’s. I preached on 2 Tim. iv, 2-4. Without staying to eat we rode on to Washington, making thirty miles this day also. We collected our conference, and had great searching and sifting, and were under the necessity of suspend- ing one ; we were very close in examining characters and principles. Each preacher spoke his experience, and made his observations relative to the work of 268 Character and Career of [1792. God since last conference. Brother Hull accom- panies me, and H. Herbert repairs to Alexandria, in Virginia. I hope in future there will be harmony among the brethren. If souls are converted to God it answers no valuable purpose thereafter to disciple them to ourselves. I preached on the marriage sup- per, and took occasion to show how some are kept from, and others lose, the grace of God by the un- lawful use of lawful things. & 6] A Day's Ride of Fifty Miles, Monday, March 5. 1 left Georgia, and eee near Whitehall, in South Carolina. Tuesday, 6. Rode fifty miles to Brother Finch’s. Here the brethren gave me a meeting on Wednesday. The congregation was small, and the people unen- gaged. Rode that evening to Odle’s, and the next day to Watter’s. N. 0.] Antinomianism in Doctrine and Practice, Monday, 19. Our horses’ backs being bruised, we had our difficulties in getting to Rehoboth. We were well-nigh cast away in going to the Widow W.’s. It was very dark, and we were bewildered in the woods. My saddle turned, and I slipped from my horse, but received no harm. I had to walk nearly half a mile through mud and water to reach the house. Tuesday, 20. 1 came to Gordon’s, on the Yadkin. It is seven years since I was here—dead! dead! The world—the devil—Antinomianism in doctrine and practice. I was led out in preaching on Deut. XXxXiil, 29. 1792. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 269 Vad Crossing Streams, Thursday, 22. We made an early start for friend Osborne’s, on New River, fifteen miles distant. Here we were generously entertained. After talking and praying together we were guided across the river, for which I was thankful. Arriving at Fox Creek we crossed it eleven times, and tarried that night with C., a zominal member of the Society of Friends, who used us very well. Friday, 23. Rode twelve miles to S.’s._ After din- ner, exhortation, and prayer, we came down the south fork, and crossed the middle fork of Holstein River. Tenn,] Indian Depredations. Thursday, 29. Rode twenty miles to Mr. Y.’s, on the main Holstein, and the next day eighteen miles to Hawkins court-house, and thence to Crabb’s. We have confused accounts of Indians. Our guard rested on the Sabbath day within four miles of the wilderness. Saturday, 31. I heard a company had arrived from Kentucky at Crabb’s. This man’s son and a Mr. Henderson have been killed by the Indians since I was here last. Ky.] A Wakeful, Watchful Night. Monday, April 30. Came to L.’s. An alarm was spreading of a depredation committed by the Indians on the east and west frontiers of the settlement. In the former, report says, one man was killed. In the latter, many men, with women and children. Every thing is in motion. There having been so many about me at conference my rest was much broken. I hoped now to repair it, and get refreshed before I 270 Character and Career of [1792. set out to return through the wilderness; but the continual arrival of people until midnight, the barking of dogs, and other annoyances, prevented. Next night we reached the Crab Orchard, where thirty or forty people were compelled to crowd into one mean house. Wecould get no more rest here than we did in the wilderness. We came the old way by Scragg’s Creek and Rock Castle, supposing it to be safer, as it was a road less frequented, and therefore less liable to be waylaid by the savages. My body by this time is well tried. I had a violent fever and pain in the head, such as I had not lately felt. I stretched myself on the cold ground, and borrowing clothes to keep me warm, by the mercy of God I slept four or five hours. Next morning we set off early, and passed beyond Richland Creek. Here we were in danger, if anywhere. I could have slept, but was afraid. Seeing the drowsiness of the company, I walked the encampment, and watched the sentries the whole night. Early next morning we made our way to Robinson’s station. We had the best com- pany I ever met with—thirty-six good travelers, and a few warriors; but we had a pack-horse, some old men, and two tired horses—these were not the best part. Va.) “Rest, Poor House of Olay.” . Saturday, May 5. Through infinite mercy we came safe to Crabb’s. Rest, poor house of clay, from such exertions! Return, O my soul, to thy rest! Monday, 7. 1 came to Young’s, a comfortable, quiet house, within six miles of Ratcliffe’s, whose wife and children were murdered by the Indians. Here I slept comfortably. 1792.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 271 “Hail, Happy Death!” Friday, 26. We rode twenty-six miles to the Little Levels. O what a solitary country is this! We have now one hundred and twenty miles before us, fifty of which is a wilderness. There is a guard at two houses on our route, but I do not fear. Nature is spent with labor. I would not live always. Hail, happy death! Nothing but holiness, perfect love, and then glory for me! Pa,] A Pleasant Ohange, Thursday, 31. Both men and horses traveled sore and wearily to Uniontown. O how good are clean houses, plentiful tables, and populous villages, when compared with the rough world we came through! Here I turned out our poor horses to pasture and to rest, after riding them nearly three hundred miles in eight days. Friday, Fune 1. Wrote letters to send over the mountains. Saturday, 2. I began to feel lame, and had a severe touch of the rheumatism, accompanied with a high fever, which occasioned great pain to me while sit- ting in conference. I found it necessary to remove, by exchange, six of the preachers from this to the eastern district. A Seminary Founded at Uniontown, Sunday, 10. We have founded a seminary of learning called Union School. Brother C. Conway is manager, who also has charge of the district. This establish- ment is designed for instruction in grammar, lan- guages, and the sciences. 272 Character and Career of [1792. Md] Peace and Holiness. Saturday, 16. 1 preached at Fort Cumberland, in our new house, to many people. Dined with Mr. D., at whose house I was entertained the first time I vis- ited this town. O that each of the family may be everlastingly saved! My body is in better health, and my soul in great peace. I feel no wrong temper. O that my whole heart might be running out in holi- ness after God! Va.) Mr, Hammett and Thomas Morrell, Saturday, 23. I attended quarterly meeting at the Widow Flint’s. Here I had the first sight of Mr. Hammett’s and Brother Thomas. Morrell’s attacks on each other—or rather Mr. Hammett’s against the Methodists, and Brother Morrell’s reply. Had Brother M. known more he would have replied better. Mr. H.’s quotation of a clause in my confidential letter to Brother S d is not altogether just. He has also misquoted the caution, leaving out the word “ Dis- trict,” which, when retained, shows it to have been American, and to have been directed against American apostates and impostors. . Pa,] “Our Old New Church.” Friday, Fuly 6. We had a long ride to Morgan- town. We came in at eleven o'clock, being much fatigued. I discoursed on the likeness between Moses and Christ. We set out for Coventry Forge, but missed our way and came to Brother Meredic’s, in the valley. I prayed heartily for, and spoke plainly to, the young 1792.] Bishop Asbury [Mlustvated. 273 people. O that the Lord would follow them power- fully ! Sunday, 8. I preached at Ebenezer church on James iv, 8, and at St. George’s church on Mark vili, 38. I had large accounts from the eastward, and am requested tosend them more preachers. After twenty years’ standing of the house in our hands the galleries are put up in our old zew church. NJ] “Some Too Wise.” Thursday, 12. Rode through great heat and dust to Burlington, New Jersey. Here I had many of my old and some new hearers, but some are much wiser than they were twenty years ago. We had a cold time of it while I spoke on Heb. iv, 7. N, YJ Asbury's Early Years, Sunday, 15. Preached at our new church on Staten Island. I was very close on the law and the Gospel. A few felt, but it was a dry time. Lord, help us! Monday, 16. We hasted to V.’s ferry, but found ourselves detained by the absence of both boats, so that we did not so soon as we expected reach New York. I did not find that life and harmony here that there have been in times past. I have just now ob- tained and am reading Mr. Wesley’s Life, the work of Dr. Coke and Mr. Moore, containing five hundred and forty-two pages. It is in general well compiled, but the history of American Methodism is inaccurate in some of its details, and in some which are in- teresting. For some days past I have been occupied 18 274 Character and Career of [1792. in reading, and in meeting the several women’s classes, and found the Lord was among them. As very probably all my life which I shall be able to write will be found in my journal, it will not be im- proper to relate something of my earlier years, and to give a brief account of my first labors in the ministry, I was born in Old England, near the foot of Hampstead Bridge in the parish of Handsworth, about four miles from Birmingham, in Staffordshire, and according to the best of my after-knowledge, on the 20th or 21st day of August, in the year of our Lord 1745. My father’s name was Joseph, and my mother’s Elizabeth Asbury. They were people in common life, were remarkable for honesty and industry, and had all things needful to enjoy. Had my father been as saving as laborious he might have been wealthy. As it was, it was his province to be employed as a farmer and gardener by the two richest families in the parish. My parents had but two children—a daughter, called Sarah, and myself. My lovely sister died in infancy. She was a favorite, and my dear mother, being very affectionate, sunk into deep distress at the loss of a darling child, from which she was not relieved for many years. It was under this dispensation that God was pleased to open the eyes of her mind, she living in a very dark, dark, dark day and place. She now began to read almost constantly when leisure presented the opportunity. When a child, I thought it strange my mother should stand by a large window poring over a book for hours together. From my childhood, I may say, I have neither. * Dared an oath, nor hazarded a lie.” 1792.] Bishop Asbury [Mlustrated. 275 The love of truth is not natural, but the habit of tell- ing it I acquired very early; and so well was I taught, that my conscience would never permit me to swear profanely. I learned from my parents a certain form of words for prayer, and I well remember my mother strongly urged my father to family reading and prayer. The singing of psalms was much practiced by them both. My foible was the ordinary foible of children—fondness for play ; but I abhorred mischief and wickedness, although my mates were among the vilest of the vile for lying, swearing, fighting, and whatever else boys of their age and evil habits were likely to be guilty of. From such society I very often returned home uneasy and melancholy ; and, although driven away by my better principles, still I would return, hoping to find happiness where I never found it. Sometimes I was much ridiculed, and called Methodist Parson, because my mother invited any people who had the appearance of religion to her house. I was sent to school early, and began to read the Bible between six and seven years of age, and greatly delighted in the historical part of it. My school- master was a great churl, and used to beat me cruelly. This drove me to prayer, and it appeared to me that God was near to me. My father having but the one son, greatly desired to keep me at school, he cared not how long; but in this design he was dis- appointed, for my master, by his severity, had filled me with such horrible dread, that with me any thing was preferable to going to school. I lived some time in one of the wealthiest and most ungodly families we had in the parish. Here I became vain, but not 276 Character and Career of [1792. openly wicked. Some months after this I returned home and made my choice, when about thirteen years and a half old, to learn a branch of business at which I wrought about six years and a half. During this time I enjoyed great liberty, and in the family was treated more like a son or an equal than an apprentice. Soon after I entered on that business God sent a pious man, not a Methodist, into our neighborhood, and my mother invited him to our house. By his conversation and prayers I was awakened before I was fourteen years of age. It was now easy and pleasing to leave my company, and I began to pray morning and evening, being drawn by the cords of love as with the bands of a man. I soon left our blind priest and went to West Bromwich church. Here I heard Ryland, Stillingfleet, Talbot, Bagnall, Mansfield, Hawes, and Venn—great names, and esteemed Gospel ministers. I became very serious, reading a great deal—Whitefield and Cennick’s Ser- mons, and every good book I could meet with. It was not long before I began to inquire of my mother who, where, what were the Methodists. She gave me a favorable account, and directed me to a person that could take me to Wednesbury to hear them. I soon found this was not the Church—but it was better. The people were so devout: men and women kneeling down, saying Amen. Now, behold! they were singing hymns. Sweet sound! Why, strange. to tell! the preacher had no prayer-book, and yet he prayed wonderfully! What was yet more extraordi- nary, the man took his text, and had no sermon-book. Thought I, “This is wonderful indeed! It is cer- 1792. ] Bishop Asbury [llustrated. 277 tainly a strange way, but the best way.” He talked about confidence, assurance, etc., of which all my flights and hopes fell short. I had no deep convic- tions, nor had I committed any deep known sins. At one sermon, some time after, my companion was powerfully wrought on. I was exceedingly grieved that I could not weep like him, yet I knew myself to bein a state of unbelief Ona certain time, when we were praying in my father’s barn, I believe the Lord pardoned my sins and justified my soul; but my companions reasoned me out of this beliéf, saying, “Mr. Mather said a believer was as happy as if he was in heaven.” I thought I was not as happy as I would be there, and gave up my confidence, and that for months; yet I was happy, free from guilt and fear, and had power over sin, and felt great inward joy. After this, we met for reading and prayer, and had large and good meetings, and were much perse- cuted, until the persons at whose houses we held them were afraid, and they were discontinued. I then held meetings frequently at my father’s house, exhorting the people there, as also at Sutton Cole- field, and several souls professed to find peace through my labors. I met class awhile at Bromwich Heath, and met in band at Wednesbury. I had preached some months before I publicly appeared in the Methodist meeting-houses, but when my labors became more public and extensive some were amazed, not knowing how I had exercised elsewhere. Behold me now a local preacher! the humble and willing servant of any and of every preacher that called on me by night or by day—being ready, with hasty steps, to go far and wide to do good—visiting Derby- 278 Character and Career of [1792. shire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and indeed almost every place within my reach, for the sake of precious souls, preaching, generally, three, four, and five times a week, and at the same time pursuing my calling. I think when I was be- tween twenty-one and twenty-two years of age I gave myself up to God and his work, after acting as a local preacher near the space of five years. It is now the 19th of July, 1792. I have been laboring for God and souls about thirty years or upward. Some time after I had obtained a clear witness of my acceptance with God, the Lord showed me, in the heat of youth and youthful blood, the evil of my heart. Fora short time I enjoyed, as I thought, the pure and perfect love of God, but this happy frame did not long continue, although at seasons I was greatly blessed. While I was a traveling preacher in England I was much tempted, finding myself ex- ceedingly ignorant of almost every thing a minister of the Gospel ought to know. How I came to America, and. the events which have happened since, my journal will show. Qonn.] The Poor Have the Gospel Preached to Them, Tuesday, 24. Rain to-day. After which we came to Reading ; and although it was late, and the even- ing damp, I was unwilling to omit the opportunity of speaking to the people. Brother Hull, my fellow- traveler, went to bed very ill.. God has wrought in this town; the spirit of prayer is among the people, and several souls have been brought to God. Wednesday, 25. We came to Newtown—thence to Waterbury. Brother H. is still very ill. Here we were . 1792.] Bishop Asbury IMlustrated. 279 entertained kindly, and at small charges ; the people submitted and were attentive to prayer. Thence we continued on to Southerington. We dined at a public- house, where we had cheap; good, plain usage. Our host told us “It was the misfortune of the Meth- odists to fall in with some of the most ignorant, poor, and disreputable people in the State.” My answer was. The poor have the Gospel preached to them ; that it had been aforetime asked, “Have any of the rulers believed on him?” Mass.] Conference at Lynn, We came through Ashford, Pomfret, Mendon, and Douglass ; we lodged at a tavern, where the people were very obliging and attentive to prayer. Thence we rode to Medfield’s to dinner; thence through Dover, Newton, Cambridge, Malden, to Lynn, which we reached about midnight, having traveled sixty- five miles, my soul, meanwhile, continually filled with the goodness of God. Thursday, August 2. Our conference met, consist- ing of eight preachers, much united, besides myself. In Lynn we have the outside of a house completed, and what is best of all, several souls profess to be converted to God. I preached on 1 John iv, 1-6, and had some life, but was too formal. There was preaching every night through the sitting of the conference. Pittsfield With its Grand Meeting-House. Wednesday, 8. We came to Belchertown, and were kindly entertained at W.’s; thence we pushed on to Hadley, crossed Connecticut River, and stopped 280 Character and Career of [1792. at Northampton. Ah! where is the blessedness of which we formerly heard in this place? I inquired of our host, but received little satisfactory informa- tion. I proposed prayer, but found it was not well received. I went to bed weary and unwell, and about half past six o’clock next morning set out again over the rocks and uneven roads across the mountain, having passed through Worthington, Chesterfield, and Partridgefield. I wondered to see the people settled here so thickly among the rocks, where the soil can only be cultivated by the iron hand of active, laborious industry. I should prefer any part of the Alleghany, where it is not too rocky, because the land is better. We made it forty miles to Pittsfield, and our journey was more disagreeable from the falling of a heavy shower. We have now ridden about one hundred and seventy miles from Lynn in four days. My mind has been variously exercised, and my body much fatigued. If I have been kept from sin, to the Lord’s name be all the glory! Pittsfield is a pleasant plain, extending from mountain to mountain; the population may consist of two thousand souls. There is a grand meeting-house and steeple, both as white and glistening as Solomon’s temple. The minister, as I learn, is on the New Divinity plan. I heard the experience of one of the first settlers in the town, who was clearly brought out of bondage; but by resting in unfailing perseverance he again grew cold. Of late he has been stirred up and restored by the instrumentality of the Methodists. I was pleased to enjoy the privilege of retiring alone to the cooling sylvan shades in frequent converse with my best Friend. 1792.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 281 N. YJ “A Joyful, Happy Conference at Albany,” Wednesday, 15. Came to Albany, and had a joyful, happy conference, twenty-one preachers being pres- ent. We constituted two deacons and four elders, Each preacher was called upon to speak of his exer- cises and observations since our last annual session. We examined our doctrines, and whether our faith was still firm in those which were believed and taught among us. We appointed Jonathan Newman as a missionary to the whites and Indians on the frontiers. We also sent another to Cataraqui. We had preaching in the market-house in Albany, and notwithstanding our hurry and crowd we were happy, and had living testimonies from preachers and people. I trust two hundred have been converted in the district since last conference. Asbury at Governor Van Cortlandt's, Thursday, 23. I breakfasted at Governor Van Cort- landt’s. I feel as if the Lord had been striving here. Saturday, 25. Came to the quarterly meeting at New Rochelle. The Lord gave light and liberty in speaking. We had a meeting with the local preach- ers, stewards, and leaders who were present. Mr. Hammett’s rejoinder has made its appearance. N. Manners has also come to town to spread his doctrine and distribute his books. Were he a gracious man I cannot think he would write as he does against Mr. Wesley and Mr. Fletcher. Perhaps he will find it rather easier to write and print books than to sell and pay the cost of publishing them. Sunday, 26. I preached to a vast congregation, 282 Character and Career of [1792. with liberty, on 1 Cor. iii, 15, 16. Many hearts were touched, and we had a blessed season at love-feast and sacrament. Conference in New York—" Happy Poverty.” Monday, 27. Came to New York and opened con- ference, twenty-eight preachers being present. We spent most of the afternoon in prayer, and nearly all the preachers gave an account of what each had seen and felt since last conference. The young gave their experience, and several professed sanctification. Friday, 31. We had a solemn love-feast, the lower floor of the house being nearly filled. Several of the brethren professed perfect love; others had lost the witness. My mind has been so bent to the business of the conference that I have slept but little this week. Connecticut is supplied much to my mind, several very promising young men having been admitted this conference. The societies are in harmony, but not as lively as they ought to be. I went to hear Dr. L., but was greatly disappointed. He had such a rum- bling voice that I could understand but little in that great house. How elegant the building! How small the appearances of religion! Lord, have mercy upon the Reformed Churches! O ye dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! I was much obliged to my friends for renewing my clothing and giving me a. little pocket-money; this is better than £500 per annum. NG] An Unkind Act from a Kind Friend. Sunday, September 2, We had severe crossing the North River ; it was as much as ever the horses could 1792.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 283 do to keep their feet. We came to Newark, and thence to Elizabethtown, in Jersey. I now began to unbend my mind, and became very happy. I went up stairs, sat in my chair, rested my head, and slept solidly ; but a kind friend would have me waked, which made me sick. Pa,] Philadelphia a Wicked Oity—The Mobility. Wednesday, 5. Passed through Crosswicks and Burlington, and came to Philadelphia. Thursday, ©. We had great peace in our confer- ence. The preachers gave a feeling account of the work of God. We had more preachers than we needed this time; both they and the people were lively. Most of our brethren in the ministry can now stand the greatest exertions. Sabbath Morning, 9. We had a melting love-feast ; the mouths of many were opened to declare the ° loving-kindness of the Lord. I preached, but did not like their ill-contrived -house. At Ebenezer I had an attentive congregation, to whom I spoke on Phil. i, 18. At night the modzlzty came in like the roaring of the sea. Boys were around the doors, and streets were inan uproar. They had been alarmed by a shout the night before, which, probably, was one cause of the congregation being so large. Brother A. went to prayer; a person cried out. Brother C. joined in prayer; the wicked were collected to op- pose. I felt the powers of darkness were very strong. After ending my discourse Brother M. rose up and mentioned the shocking conduct he had observed among them: fighting, swearing, threatening, etc. This is a wicked, horribly wicked, city, and if the people do not reform I think they will be let loose 284 Character and Career of [1792. upon one another, or else God will send the pesti- lence among them, and slay them by hundreds and thousands. Del.) Resting at Home, Saturday, 15. Rode to Camden. To Dr. Barrett, a true son of a worthy father, we are chiefly indebted for a neat, economical meeting-house. I had so many friends I knew not where to go. My attendance on conferences and quarterly meetings has lately been so constant I found it expedient to make a sudden change and come home. In my way I stopped at a friend’s house: the woman had been early a member, the man not of us. I pressed family prayer upon her from Divine authority ; I saw her tears and heard her promises. Came home to T. White’s. I resolved on the-establishment of a prayer-meeting for the women before I go hence. This day I spent in reading, writing, meditation, and prayer. To be retired and solitary is desirable after the presence of crowds, and the labors, various and unceasing, to which I am called. When our Lord was pursued by the people, he, as a man, would hide himself. I thought, if my brethren would not spare me I must spare myself. Va.] A Comfortable Conference and a “Burning Love-feast.” Thursday, 27. Crossed Pocomoke to L.’s. At Dow- ings’s at night. Brother Everett was sick. I had a large congregation at Garrettson chapel, and was much blessed on Rom. viii, 28,29. I had a comfort- able conference with- the leaders, stewards, local preachers, and exhorters, and we had a living love- feast. 1792.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 285 Md.J A Day at Judge White's. Monday, October 1. We rode to Choptank, now Greensborough, and preached on Ephes. ii, 17, and some power went through the house. I had a good conference with the local brethren, making close in- quiries relative to themselves, their families, and the societies to which they respectively belong. I stopped a day at Judge White’s, and read in haste the most essential parts of “Jefferson’s Notes.” I have thought it may be I am safer to be occasion- ally among the people of the world, than wholly con- fined to the indulgent people of God. He who some- times suffers from a famine will the better know how to relish a feast. Dr. Ooke’s Arrival—General Conference. Tuesday, 30. Came to Baltimore in a storm of rain. While we were sitting in the room at Mr. Rogers’s in came Dr. Coke, of whose arrival we had not heard, and whom we embraced with great love. Thursday, November 1. I felt awful at the General Conference, which began this day. At my desire they appointed a moderator and preparatory com- mittee, to keep order and to bring forward the busi- ness with regularity. We had heavy debates on the first, second, and third sections of our form of disci- pline. My power to station the preachers without an appeal was much debated, but finally carried by a very large majority. Perhaps a new bishop, new conference, and new laws would have better pleased some. I have been much grieved for others, and dis- tressed with the burden I bear, and must hereafter bear. O my soul, enter into rest! Ah, who am I, 286 Character and Career of [1792. that the burden of the work should lie on my heart, hands, and head? Thursday, 8. Having taken cold, and had my rest broken, I went to bed to bring on a free perspiration, and from this I received relief. My soul breathed unto God, and I was exceedingly happy in his love. Some in- dividuals among the preachers having their jealousies about my influence in the conference, I gave the matter wholly up to them, and to Dr. Coke who pre- sided. Meantime I sent them the following letter: Asbury's Note to the General Oonference, My Dear BRETHREN: Let my absence give you no pain—Dr. Coke presides. I am happily excused from assisting to make laws by which myself am to be governed ; I have only to obey and execute. I am happy in the consideration that I never stationed a preacher through enmity or as a punishment. I have acted for the glory of God, the good of the peo- ple, and to promote the usefulness of the preachers. Are you sure that if you please yourselves the people will be as fully satisfied? They often say, “Let us have such a preacher ;” and sometimes, “We will not have such a preacher ; we will sooner pay him to stay at home.” Perhaps I must say, “ His appeal forced him upon you.” Iam one, ye are many. I I am as willing to serve you as ever. I want not to sit in any man’s way. I scorn to solicit votes. I am a very trembling, poor creature to hear praise or dis- praise. Speak your minds freely, but remember you are only making laws for the present time. It may be that as in some other things so in this, a future day may give you further light. I am yours, etc., Francis ASBURY. 1792.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 287 Mr, O'Kelly Withdraws from the Connection. Mr. O’Kelly, being disappointed in not getting an appeal from any station made by me, withdrew from the connection and went off. For himself, the con- ference well knew he could not complain of the regu- lation. He had been located to the south district of Virginia for about ten succeeding years, and upon his plan might have located himself, and any preacher or set of preachers, to the district whether the people wished to have them or not. Vad Increase of Methodism—Statistics, Tuesday, December 11. Rode to H.’s, near Lewis- burg. Here I met the preachers in conference, and we were closely employed until Saturday morning. We had about forty preachers from the two districts in North Carolina. Our labors finished, we rode to Neuse River. Sunday, 16. Preached at Merritt’s. Monday, 17. Rode fifteen miles to S.’s ; preached on Christ, the believer's wisdom, righteousness, sanc- tification, and redemption. We had a difficult road in going to Haw River, but a kind Providence brought us along very well, although the weather was exceed- ingly cold. We crossed the stream by fording about eight o’clock, and about ten arrived at R.’s, very cold and in much pain. I know not why, but so it is, that I cannot feel that I hold such sweet communion with God in cold weather as in warm. It may be that “Nature, being oppressed, Commands the mind to suffer with the body.” The great love and union which prevailed at the late conference makes me hope many’ souls will be 288 Character and Career of [1792. converted in the ensuing year. An -account was brought in of the conversion of about three hundred souls last week within its limits, chiefly in the Low- land circuits. Glory be to God! I feel that he is with us, and I have good evidence that fifteen or eighteen hundred souls have professed to have been converted in the United States within the last twelve months. 8, G1] Mr, Hammett and Dr. Coke, Saturday, 29. Rode thirty-three miles to Charles- ton. Found our little flock in peace, and a small revival among them. Mr. Hammett has raised a grand house, and has written an appeal to the British conference. He represents Dr. Coke as a sacrilegious tyrant and murderer. I have no doubt but the Doctor will be able to make good his cause. As to Hammett, time will show the man and the people who have made lies their refuge. Ga] Asbury Between Two Fires, Friday, Fanuary, 25, 1793. I rode fifteen miles to my very loving friend’s, Brother D. Here my mind was exercised with what I heard and felt. Mr. Matthews wrote Brother D. he had been taught my iniquity, to which Mr. H. (his brother) gave his sanc- tion. And why was I thus charged? Because I did not establish Mr. Wesley’s absolute authority over the American connection. For myself, this I had sub- mitted to; but the Americans were too jealous to bind themselves to yield to him in all things relative to Church government. Mr. Wesley was a man they had never seen—was three thousand miles miles off— 1793.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 289g how might submission in such a case be expected ? Brother Coke and myself gave offense to the con- nection by enforcing Mr. Wesley’s will in some mat- ters, for which I do not blame Mr. Wesley. Like other great men, he had his elbow friends ; and like other people, I had my enemies. Ruins of Whitefield’s Orphan House. Tuesday, 29. We reach Savannah. Next day I rode twelve miles along a fine sandy road to view the ruins of Mr. Whitefield’s Orphan House. The wings are yet standing, though much injured, and the school- house still more. It is reported that Mr. Whitefield observed while eating his last dinner in the house, “This house was built:for God, and cursed be the man that puts it to any other use.” The land for the support of the school is of little value, except two rice plantations which we passed in our route. Seceders and Revilers, Saturday, February 2. Tam not enough in prayer. I have said more than was for the glory of God con- cerning those who have left the American connection, and who have reviled Mr. Wesley, Mr. Fletcher, Doc- tor Coke, and poor me. O that I could trust the Lord more than I do, and leave his cause wholly in his own hands! 8.0] Difficulty in Finding Entertainment, Sunday, 3. Preached at Black Swamp church on 2 Cor, ili, 9. The subject was pointed, and the peo- ple were attentive. Monday, 4. 1 preached at Purisburg to a full house. 19 290 Character and Career of [1793 Some of the women appeared to feel the word. We had a heavy ride. I was faint and low-spirited at the view which I could not fail to take of the state of pro- fessors and sinners. I had about fifty hearers, and was invited to a friend’s house, but thought it best to pursue my journey. We came to Salt Ketchers bridge, where we stopped to pay our fare; but O the scent of rum, and men filled with it! How shocking! Who could enter such a house? I hoped for quiet private entertainment at Red Hill, but the gentleman refused to receive us for love, money, or hospitality’s sake. I then sent Brother R. to know if we could get in at the next negro quarter. Into the house we might be permitted to enter, but we could get no corn for our horses, and no bed for ourselves. Overseers dare not, and their employers will not, re- ceive strangers. They are tpo proud to sell and too covetous to give. At length we providentially reached a Mr. C.’s, a school-master and minister. We bought some corn for our horses, and had tea and bread and cheese for ourselves. I saw some beautiful boys at this house. Had these children the opportunity of a northern education, what choice young men they might make! I was happy in the house, and pleased with two poor blacks who were much moved under prayer. Next morning I set out about six o'clock, and passing the Fishpond we came on slowly to Parker’s Ferry. I found my appointment to meet Brother Jackson was not properly made, and as it was out of my way I made a sudden turn to G.’s, on Edisto River. After dinner I met with: , who offered to be our guide; but when I began to show him his folly and the dangerous state of his soul, he 1793.] Bishop Asbury [Mlustrated. 291 soon left us, and we had to beat our way through the swamps as well as we could. He said he had killed a negro worth sixty pounds and a valuable horse with racing. Pushing on, we found our way.to the ferry, and crossed about eight o’clock. Membership in the United States Fifty Thousand, Tuesday, 12. 1 make it my work to visit every afternoon. I happily met with Mr. Wesley’s Journal, bringing the date down to two years before his death. I could not but specially notice that his latter days were more abundant in labors ; and that he preached in places formerly unnoticed. He made this observa- tion, (so fixed on my mind,) that it is rare# mere miracle—for a Methodist to increase in wealth and not decrease in grace. I have now read the third volume of Gordon’s History, Burnham’s Select Mar- tyrology, and Memoirs of Dying Saints. We have two hundred and seventeen traveling preachers and about fifty thousand members in the United States. Glory to God in the highest ! N.Y.) Restless Men—Asbury's Spirit. Sunday, March 24. I preached on 1 Cor. xiv, 3. There was a noise and shaking each day. Some were awakened, one professed to be converted, and several to be quickened. The meeting lasted from nine A.M. to four o’clock P.M. “While he was yet speaking there came also another.” I heard there was a conference appointed at Reese’s chapel, in Charlotte county, Virginia, to form what they call a free constitution and a pure Church, and to reject me and my creatures. I know not whose hand is 292 Character and Career of [1793. in this. I hopé they will call themselves by another name. Only let them settle in congregations and tax the people, and I know how it will work.’ If we (itinerant connection) would give the government into the hands of a local ministry, as some would have it, and tax the people to pay preachers for Sabbath work, this would please such men; but this we dare not do. Whenever the people are unwilling to re- ceive us, and think they can do better, we will quietly withdraw from them, and if those who wish the change can serve them better than we have done, well. Perhaps some of them may think with , in Georgia, that I am the greatest villain on the conti- nent. & bid such adieu, and appeal to the bar of God. I have no time to contend, having better work to do. If we lose some children God will give us more. Ah! this is the mercy, the justice, of some who, under God, owe their all to me and my tyrants, so called. The Lord judge between them and me! There appears to be a general quickening in the Yadkin circuit, and about eight souls have professed conversion there in the last three months. A Journey Over the Mountains, Wednesday, 27. We began our journey over the great ridge of mountains. We had not gone far before we saw and felt the snow, and the sharpness of the air gave me a deep cold, not unlike aninfluenza. We came to the head of Watauga River. Stopped at Mr. S.’s, and had some enlargement on “The promise is to you and to your children,” etc. My soul felt for these neglected people. It may be, by my coming this way, Providence will so order it that I shall send 1793.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 293 them a preacher. We hasted on to Cove’s Creek, in- vited ourselves to stay at C.’s, where we made our own tea, obtained some butter and milk and some most excellent Irish potatoes. We were presented with a little flax for our beds, on which we spread our coats and blankets, and three of us slept before a large fire. Thursday, 28. We made an early start, and came to the Beaver Dam. Three years ago we slept here ina cabin without a cover. We made a breakfast at Mr. W.’s, and then attempted the iron or stone mountain, which is steep, like the roof of a house. I . found it difficult and trying to my lungs to walk up it. Upon descending the mountain we had to jump down the steep stairs, from two to three and four feet. At the foot of this mountain our guide left us to a man on foot, who soon declined, and we made the best of our way to Dugger’s ford, on Roan’s Creek. We came down the river, where there are plenty of large, round, rolling stones, and the stream was rapid. My horse began to grow dull; an intermittent fever and a deep cold disordered me much. I was under obligations to Henry Hill, my new aid, who was ready to do any thing for me in his power. Perhaps Providence moved him to offer to travel with me, and his father to recommend him. Twenty years ago a rude open loft did not affect me; now it seldom fails to injure me. Tenn] Respect of Presbyterians for Ministers, Friday, 29. We took our journey deliberately. We passed Doe River at the fork, and came through the Gap; a most gloomy scene—not unlike the Shades of Death in the Alleghany mountain. Mr. L.,a kind 204 Character and Career of [1793. Presbyterian, fed our horses gratis. I must give the Presbyterians the preference for respect to ministers. Ky.] “None Need Desire to be an American Bishop.” Saturday, April 13. We rode thirty-three miles down to a quarterly meeting at Humphries chapel. Here my presence surprised the brethren. The state of the work here appears to be Jow. I had some light, life, and liberty in preaching, and some’ felt the word. We closed our meeting after several had joined in prayer. Lord, remember the labors of this day! Let not thy faithful word fall to the ground! From the quarterly meeting we came to Colonel Harding’s. He has been gone ‘some time, as a commissioner, to treat with the Indians. If he is dead, here is a widow and six children left. I cannot yet give him up for lost. We had a large congregation at W.’s, where I was led out on Psa. xxxiv, 17-20. I cannot stand quarterly meetings every day. None need desire to be an American bishop, upon our plan, for the ease, honor, or interest that attends the office. From my present views and feelings I am led to wish the conference would elect another bishop, which might afford me some help. The Discipline Read-Through in Conference, Monday, 29. Rode through the rain to Lexington. I stopped at C. White’s once more. O that God may help him safe to glory! Came to Brother Mor- gan’s. I felt awful and solemn, and some dejection of mind. Ah! want of religion is too visible in most houses. Tuesday, 30, Wednesday, May 1, Thursday, 2, we 1793.| Bishop Asbury Illustrated, 205 spent in conference, and in openly speaking our minds to each other. We ended under the melting, praying, praising power of God. We appointed trustees for the school, and made sundry regulations relative thereto. We read the Form of Discipline through, section by section, in conference. Another Journey through the Wilderness. Tuesday, 7. We rode down to the Crab Orchard, where we found company enough, some of whom were very wild. We had a company of our own, and refused to go with them. Some of them gave us very abusive language, and one man went up ona hill above us and fired a pistol toward our company. We resolved to travel in our order, and bound our- selves by honor and conscience to support and defend each other, and to see every man through the wilder- ness. But we could not depend upon wicked and unprincipled men, who would leave and neglect us, and even curse us to our faces. Nor were we at liberty to mix with swearers, liars, drunkards, and, for aught we know, this may not be the worst with some. We were about fourteen or fifteen in company, and had twelve guns and pistols. We rode on near the de- feated camp, and rested till three o’clock under great suspicion of the Indians. We pushed forward, and by riding forty-five miles on Wednesday,.and about the same distance on Yhursday, we came safe to Robinson’s station about eight o'clock. Tenn,] Much Travel and Many Trials. Saturday, 11. We came to Brother Van Pelt’s, with whom we rested on the Sadbéath. I have traveled between five and six hundred miles in the last four 296 Character and Career of [170% weeks, and have rested from riding fifteen days at conferences and other places. Ihave been much dis- tressed with this night work—no regular meals nor sleep—and it is difficult to keep up prayer in such rude companies as we have been exposed to. I have also been severely afflicted through the whole journey. Monday, 13. Was a day of great trial. We rode about forty-six miles. Stopped at —, where, through carelessness, I nearly had been burned up. Va.] Peace in the Conference and Happiness in the Cabin, Friday, 24. Came to Rehoboth, in the sinks of Greenbrier, where we held our conference. I was greatly comforted at the sight of Brothers B. J. and Ellis Cox. We had peace in our conference, and were happy in our cabin. I learn that mischief is begun in the lower parts of Virginia. J. O’Kelly and some of the local preachers are the promoter and encouragers of divisions among the brethren. Preachers Leaving the Itinerancy. | Saturday, Fune 1. I spent the evening with Doctor Dulany. Rose and took the rain next morning as usual, having had rain for eight or ten days suc- cessively. On my way I was met by an old German, who shook me by the hand, and said he wished he might be worthy to wash my feet. Yea, thought I, if you knew what a poor sinful creature I am you would hardly look at one so unworthy. But Jesus lives. O precious Christ, thou art mine and I am thine! Came to Newtown ; the roads exceeding miry, and our horses very tired. We are glad to get 4 little rest at Brother Phelps’s. My soul has been much 1793.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 207 tried by Satan, and I am pained for the work of God. In my six months’ travel I find that six acceptable preachers are preparing to settle themselves in the world and leave the itinerancy. Asbury at Bath, Friday, 7. We rode to Bath, that seat of sin. Here we continued to rest ourselves. My public work was a sermon on the Sabbath. A number of our society from various parts being here, I have an opportunity of receiving and answering many letters. I am afraid I shall spend nine or ten days here to little purpose. I employ myself in reading Thomas 4 Kempis and the Bible. I also have an opportunity of going alone into the silent grove, and of viewing the continent and examining my own heart. I hope for some re- lief from my rheumatic complaint which has so oppressed me for six months past. The people here are so gay and idle that I doubt there being much good done among them. The troubles of the east and west meet me as I pass. MdJ Conference at Oldtown. Sunday, 16. A number of us crossed the ferry at the mouth of Great Capon, and made our way through great heat to Oldtown, thirty-two miles. We were obliged to ride moderately, or the excessive warmth of the weather might have killed our horses. We had no small consolation in uriiting the brethren from three districts in conference, whose names only were before known to each other. I gave them one sermon on “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; they shall prosper that love thee.” Our conference sat three days successively, very closely employed. 298 Character and Career of [1793. The Difference Between the True and False Minister, Thursday, 20, I had some little time to read, write, and pray. My congregation was careless and un- feeling. I enforced David’s ‘charge to Solomon. Methinks it ought to be with those who have to do with souls as with a tender, feeling physician that attends a patient. Does the fever rage, or the de- lirium continue? His countenance is sad, and when labor and medicine fail, and the symptoms continue to grow worse, he is then forced, as a skillful phy- sician, to pronounce his patient incurable, while a quack flatters and sees no danger. Such is the dif- ference between a true minister of Christ and a false teacher, when applied to the souls of men. NJ] “They Suspected we were Preachers.” Wednesday, Fuly 10. We came to Broadhead’s, and were totally unknown. I was sick and stopped for breakfast. They suspected we were preachers, and one asked Brother Hill who I was, and on being informed, the mother, son, and daughter came running with tears to speak with me. I stopped and gave them a sermon at Marbletown. I found the work of God going on among the Low Dutch. These, of all the people in America, we have done the least with. N. YJ Albany—No Sympathy from the Rich, Saturday, 13. We rode to Coeyman’s Patent. We had a good quarterly meeting, and many newly-con- verted souls testified of the goodness of God, and of the power of his grace. From thence to Albany, with reluctance, and lectured, being Sabbath evening. I felt the wickedness of the people, but we had a 1793.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 299 melting season among the preachers in our confer- ence, Great changes will be made among the preach- ers from this conference: some will be sent to New Jersey, others to Rhode Island’ and Massachusetts. The people of Albany roll in wealth, but they have no heart to invite any of the servants of God to their houses. Unless a great change should take place we shall have no more conferences here. I am tired down with fatigue and labor under great weakness of body, yet I must haste to Lynn—it may be to meet trouble. But my days will be short. _ “My suff’ring time will soon be o’er ; Then shall I sigh and weep no more: My ransomed soul shall soar away, To sing God’s praise in endless day.” We hope two hundred souls have been awakened, and as many converted, in Albany district the past year. Our friends are happy here, not being distressed with divisions in the Church, nor by war with the Indians, as they are to the southward. According to our reckoning we make it about four hundred and forty- seven miles from Oldtown to Albany, to come the mountainous road through the woods, and to come by Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York it is six hun- dred miles. Qonn.] A Day of Small ‘Things in Connecticut and Rhode Island, Monday, 22. We rode fifteen miles to Sharon, twenty miles to Litchfield. There is a little move among the people of this place. : Tuesday, 23. Camé to H.’s. I rested in a very sol- itary shade, and was comforted in my own mind. Perhaps the old man is right who says, Not many of 300 Character and Career of [1793. this generation will enter into the promised land, but their children. Came to East Hartford, and find it still a day of small things. Falling under deep de- jection, (such as I had not known in months,) I con- cluded to preach this evening, for my own consolation, on “Thou that teachest another, teachest thou not thyself?” We passed through and spent a night at Windham, a pleasant town, and thence through Can- terbury and Plainfield, where our preachers from Con- necticut have visited ; but it is a dry land—little rain in a double sense. Thence I came upon the State of Rhode Island. Stopped in Coventry, and found that the two preachers stationed here havé been run- ning over almost the whole State, and had formed but few societies. When I came to Providence I was told by I. Martin that, under the present difficulties, they had agreed not to forward the preachers of the Methodists among them, nor to befriend them. I asked for a tavern, and was directed to General T.’s, where I was used well. Mass.] A Spectacle to Men and Angels, Monday, 29. We rode upward of thirty miles, through great heat, to Lynn. On our way we fed our horses, and bought a cake and some cheese for ourselves. Surely we are a spectacle to men and angels! The last nine days we have ridden upward of two hundred miles, and, all things taken together, I think it worse than the wilderness. The country abounds with rocks, hills, and stones, and the heat is intense—such as is seldom known in these parts. Tuesday, 30. Preached in Lynn on 2 Chron. xv, 2. the prophecy of Azariah by the Spirit. 1793.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 301 “Pain begets Invention.” Wednesday, August 7. We passed several little towns and came to Milford, about nineteen miles ‘from Needham. Here they have a good priest’s house and meeting house, and all appear to be in the fullness of bread. About three hundred were soon collected, to whom I preached on “ The love of Christ constraineth us,” etc. The. man in whose house we lodged was very kind, and told me his father held society meeting in the house where we preached, and that, except conditional perseverance, he preached our doctrines. We rode through Minden, Douglas, Thompson, and Woodstock ; but missing our way, and being very unwell, as I have been some time with an inflammation in my throat, we concluded to turn in at a tavern and spend the night in pain. Pain begets invention. I now began to think, What shall I do? Iam my own physician. I sent for two blisters, ap- plied both to my ears, and then began to march to Ashford. I turned in at Mr. W.’s, met Brothers T. and S., and was dragged out to baptize a household while I had a fever. The weather was excessively warm, like Carolina. I had an awful night. Conn] Conference at Tolland—Asbury a Sufferer, Monday, 12. Our conference sat at Tolland. Lame as I was I went through the business ; and notwith- standing I was tired out with labor, heat, pain, and company, I must also preach. So I submitted, and endeavored to apply 2 Tim. ii, 24-26. Being unable to ride on horseback, I drove on in a carriage through the rain over the rocks in the dark, and came to Doctor Steel’s at Ellington. 302 Character and Career of [1793. “Yesterday the pain seized my right foot. I am now not able to move from my horse to a house; an. attack of this kind generally terminates in about eight days. New Divinity Intolerant. , Thursday, 15. Came in Brother S.’s carriage to Hartford. From what we can gather, we are en- couraged to hope that upward of three hundred souls have been awakened, and more than two hundred converted to God, the last year. If this work goes on, Satan will be laboring by all means and by every instrument. From Hartford I came to Middletown. I slept at E. F.’s, who was the first Separate minister on the west of Connecticut River, and a man who had labored and written much. Had his learning been equal to his piety and good sense, the standing order would have trembled under his hand. Who would think his Church would vote him out, when old and gray-headed, because he could not subscribe to the New Divinity? He is now, as he saith, like a broken vessel, and upward of fourscore years of age. His wife and children favor us. I came to New Haven, thence to Derby, and had a return of the inflammation in my throat. Came to West Haven—very unwell. I had heavy work to get to Reading, being lame in both feet. I laid my- self down on the road-side, and felt like Jonah or Elijah. I took to my bed at Reading. N.Y] Asbury in a Mill-Race. Wednesday, 21. When I came near the White Plains my horse started and threw me into a mill- race knee-deep in water, my hands and side in the 1793.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated, 303 dirt ; my shoulder was hurt by the fall. I stopped at a house, shifted my clothes, and prayed with the people. If any of these are awakened by my stop- ping there, all will be well. This day I made out to ride thirty-three miles. Sick, but Hard at Work. Thursday, 22, Came to New York. The weather is extremely warm. «Great afflictions prevail here— fluxes, fevers, influenzas. It is very sickly also in Philadelphia. I have found by secret search that I have not preached sanctification as I should have done. If I am restored, this shall be my theme more pointedly than ever, God being my helper. I have been sick upward of four months, during which time I have attended to my business, and ridden, I suppose, not less than three thousand miles. I kept close house in New York until Szszday, 25, when I attempted to preach on Romans xiii, 10-12. The weather being warm and dry, I caught an influenza which held me four days, and this in addition to my fevers and lameness. The effects of this weather were sensibly felt by every member of conference, some of whom were so indisposed that they could not attend. We made a collection of forty pounds for the relief of the preachers on the frontiers of New York and Connecticut. We have awful accounts from Philadelphia, which made me feel too much like a man and too little like a Christian. : N. Jd Asbury at Burlington. Monday, September 2. I rested. Tuesday, 3. Dined at Elizabethtown on my way to Philadelphia. Wed- 304 Character and Career of [1793. nesday, 4. | reached Trenton, and received a letter from Brother M—k—y, requesting me to come to Burlington, and that it was doubtful whether it were prudent to go to Philadelphia on account of the con- tagion that then prevailed in that city. I did not reach Burlington so soon as was expected, and the preachers went on to Philadelphia. I preached in Burlington, and the people were very solemn. Pa] Asbury in Philadelphia in the Midst of Contagion, Friday, 6. We rode to the city. Ah! how the ways mourn! how low-spirited are the people while making their.escape! I judge the people die from fifty to one hundred in a day. Some of our friends are dying, others flying. Sunday, 8. I preached on Isa. viii, 1: “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” The people of this city are alarmed, and well they may be. I went down to Ebenezer, (a church in the lower part of the city,) but my strength was gone; however, I endeavored to open and apply Micah vi, 9. The streets are now depopulated, and the city wears a gloomy aspect. All night long my ears and heart were wounded with the cry of fire! And what made it still more serious, two young men were killed by the fall of a wall, one of whom was a valuable member of our society. Poor Phila- delphia! the lofty city, He layeth it low! We ap- pointed Tuesday, 9th,;to be observed as a day of humiliation. I preached on 1 Kings vili, 37-40, and had a large and very serious weeping congre- gation. The preachers left the city on Monday, I 1793.] Bishop Asbury Ilustrated. 305 continued in order to have the minutes of conference printed. Wednesday, 11. We left the city—solemn as death! The people of Derby and Chester are sickly, and they are greatly alarmed at Wilmington. I found a quiet retreat at friend Bond’s, near New Castle. Md] “The People Protended to be Afraid.” friday, 27. We came to Easton, twenty-five miles. Here the people pretended to be afraid of my com- municating the infection of the yellow fever, although I had been out of Philadelphia from the 9¢% to the 26h instant. I gave them a long discourse, and then rode to Hillsborough, and thence to Judge White’s. Sickness prevails in every house, but there are not so many deaths as might be expected from general afflictions. “O the Plague of Sin!” Thursday, October 10, Came to Baltimore. Passed the guard against the plague in Philadelphia, set for prudence, one hundred miles off. O the plague of sin! Would to God we were more guarded against its baleful influence! I was sick, weary, and feeble, yet, preaching being appointed for me in town, I sounded the alarm on Jer. xiii, 16. Va.) Asbury Speaks in Self-Defense, Thursday, November 7. We had a serious congre- gation at Cumberland quarterly meeting. Some ap- peared to be much engaged. My Sabéath day’s journey was from Sister L.’s to a new chapel in Prince Edward, twenty miles, where, after preaching on Matt. xxiv, 12-14, I was led to say a 20 306 Character and Career of [1793. few things for myself—as to my coming to and stay- ing in America ; of the exercise of that power which was given by the first and confirmed by the last General Conference. Many of the people thought me not that monster I had been represented. I thought this the more necessary here, as great pains had been taken to misrepresent and injure me in this congregation and neighborhood. So it is: when “I am absent some will say what they please of me. After sacrament we came, weary and hungry, to Brother R.’s, by whom we were kindly entertained. My soul is stayed on the Lord, although Satan will push at me by means of the world, the flesh, and false brethren. Oonference at Petersburg. Sunday, 24. Hasted to Petersburg. Came in a little before noon, and preached on Isa. Ixvi; 4, 5. Monday, 25, and the following days, were spent in conference. The preachers were united, and the Lord was with us of a truth. There were fifty-five preachers present. I had some difficulties respect- ing the stations ; but there was a willingness among the brethren to go where they were appointed, and all was well. N. ©] Preachers Loyal to the General Conference, Tuesday, December 10. Came to Lewisburg, and held our conference at Green Hills, about a mile from town. Great peace and unity prevailed among us, The preachers cheerfully signed an instrument, expressing their determination to submit to and abide by what the General Conference has done. Friday, 13. Our conference rose. It was agreed 1793.] Bishop Asbury IMustrated. 307 that the next conference should be held in Peters- burg. There the preachers from North Carolina, _ Greenbrier, the Center and South Districts of Vir- ginia, may all meet, and change properly; and unite together for their own and the people’s good. 8.C.] A Room Twelve Feet Square for Conference, Sleeping, and Hospital. Monday, 30. We rode forty-five miles to Brother Cook’s, on Broad River, and the next day to Brother Finch’s. Here we are to have about thirty preach- ers from South Carolina and Georgia. We were straitened for room, having only twelve feet square to confer, sleep, and for the accommodation of those who were sick. Brother B. was-attacked with the dysentery. Wednesday, Fanuary 1, 1794. We removed Broth- er B. into a room without fire. We hastened the business of our conference as fast as we could. After sitting in a close room with a very large fire I re- tired into the woods nearly an hour, and was seized with a severe chili and an inveterate cough and fever. With difficulty I sat in conference the following day. I was attended by Doctor D. I found I must go somewhere to get rest. The day was cloudy, and threatened snow. However, Brother R. E. and myself made out to get seven miles to dear old Brother A. Yeargin’s house. The next day came on a heavy fall of snow, which con- tinued two days, and was from six to ten inches deep. I had to let some blood. I made use of flaxseed, and afterward of betony-tea, both of which were of use to me. 308 Character and Career of [1794. Asbury Declines Going West—Reasons, Monday, 20. I reached the city of Charleston. Here I began to rest, and my cold grew better. Dr. Ramsey directed me to the use of laudanum, niter, and bark, after cleansing the stomach with an emetic. The kindness of Sister Hughes was very great. I have written largely to the West, and declined visit- ing those parts this year. The American Alps, the deep snows and great rains, swimming the creeks and rivers, riding in the night, sleeping on the earthen floors, more or less of which I must experience if I go to the Western country, might at this time cost me my life. I have only been able to preach four times in three weeks. Gordon’s History of the Revolution, I have read Gordon’s History of the American Revolution. Here we view the suffering straits of the American army, and, what is greatly interesting, General Washington’s taking his farewell of his officers. What an affecting scene! I could not but feel through the whole of the description. What, then, was the sight! O how minds are made great with affliction and suffering ! Poor Beverly Allen. Poor Beverly Allen, who has been going from bad to worse these seven or eight years—speaking against me to preachers and people, and writing to Mr. Wesley and Doctor Coke, and being thereby the source of most of the mischief that has followed ; and lastly, having been agent for Mr. , is now secured in jail for shooting Major Forsyth through the head. The Major was marshal for the Federal Court in 1794.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 309 Georgia, and was about to serve a writ upon B. A. The masterpiece of all is, a petition is prepared, de- claring him to have shown marks of insanity previous to his killing the Major! The poor Methodists also must unjustly be put to the rack on his account, although he has been expelled from among us these two years. I have had my opinion of him these nine years, and gave Doctor C. my thoughts of him before his ordination. I pity, I pray for him—that, if his life be given up to justice, his soul may yet be saved. “How Good were the Potatoes and Fried Gammon.” Saturday, March 1. We set out in great spirits, hav- ing sixteen miles to the ferry, where we were detained six hours. We hoped to have been in Georgetown by sunset. Now we thought of traveling until midnight. We came to Cedar Creek, which we found in a bad state. We stayed at the ferry, being persuaded we could not reach Georgetown in time enough for meeting. j Sabbath Morning. We directed our course west- ward, and came along, drooping and solitary, to M.’s ferry, about twenty-five miles. We rode up toa large house, and were asked in to drink brandy. Three men and two women appeared to be set in to drink the pure stuff, glass after glass. We were glad to re- treat. There came on a storm of rain, with thunder and lightning. I was unwilling to go to , expect- ing the same kind of Sabbath devotion there. We traveled a most dreadful road to Black River, and had plenty of water above and below us. After riding fifteen miles we came to Widow B.’s, where we got shelter. Still we had our fears. There is such a quantity of water in the swamps and low lands that 310 Character and Career of [1794. our feet are kept very uncomfortable, and some places are impassable. Isaac Smith, in all these diffi- culties and trials of swamps, colds, rains, and starva- tion, was my faithful companion. After riding twenty-seven miles without eating, how good were the potatoes and fried gammon! We then had only ten miles to Brother Rembert’s, where we arrived about seven o’clock. I confess my soul and body have been sorely tried. What blanks are in this country, and how much worse are rice planta- tions! Ifa man-of-war is “a floating hell,” these are standing ones: wicked masters, overseers, and ne- groes—cursing, drinking—no Sabbaths; no sermons. A Cordial Reception—“ Wife, Get Up.” Thursday, 20. I directed my course, in company with my faithful fellow-laborer, Tobias Gibson, up the Catawba, settled mostly by the Dutch. A barren spot for religion. Having ridden in pain twenty- four miles, we came, weary and hungry, to O.’s tav- ern, and were glad to take what came to hand. Four miles forward we came to Howe’s Ford, upon Catawba River, where we could neither get a canoe nor guide. We entered the water in an improper place, and’ were soon among the rocks and in the whirlpools. My head swam, and my horse was affrighted ; the water was to my knees, and it was with difficulty we retreated to the same shore. We then called to a man on the other side, who came and piloted us across, for which I paid him well. My horse being afraid to take the water a second time, Brother Gibson crossed and sent me his, and. our guide took mine across. We went on, but ouc 1794.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 311 troubles were not at an end; night came on, and it was very dark. It rained heavily, with powerful lightning and thunder. We could not find the path that turned out to Connell’s. In this situation we continued until midnight or past. At last we found a path which we followed till we came to dear old Father Harper’s plantation. We made for the house, and called ; he answered, but wondered who it could be. He inquired whence we came; I told him we would tell him that when we came in, for it was rain- ing so powerfully we had not much time to talk. When I came dripping into the house, he cried, “God bless your soul! is it Brother Asbury? Wife, get up.” Having had my feet and legs wet for six or seven hours causes me to feel very stiff. N. 6.) The Care of All the Ohurches, Sunday, 23. My subject at Justice White’s was Heb. ii, 1-3; I had more people than I expected. I have visited this place once a year; but Mr. K. and L. have both failed coming at all; I pity them and the people. If I could think myself of any account, I might say with Mr. Wesley, “If it be so while I am alive, what will it be after my death?” I have written several letters to the westward to supply my lack of service. I am mightily wrought upon for New Hampshire, Province of Maine, Vermont, and Lower Canada. Va] Why Some Left the Methodist Episcopal Church, Wednesday, 23. I attended the funeral of R. O,, who, I learn, died in the fear and love of God, of a consumption. I was too systematical for my con- 312 Character and Career of [1794. gregation, who were wild and unawakened. I bap- tized a few children, then crossed Symes’s Ferry and came twelve miles to Brother Spencer’s, in Char- lotte County. Here report saith that there is sad work with those who have left us, and who are now exerting themselves to form as strong a party as they can. The principal of these are J. O’K., E. A,, J. K,, and J.C. I learn by a letter from J. Ellis that mat- ters are not desperate ; this letter, with some others, I shall reserve for a future day. If the real cause of this division was known, I think it would appear that one wanted to be immovably fixed in a district ; an- other wanted money; a third wanted ordination; a fourth wanted liberty to do as he pleased about slaves, and not to be called to an account, etc. “I Took my Staff and Faintly Ascended the Hill.” Monday, Fune 9. Rested at Brcther Phelps’s. My mind is in peace, but I feel the spiritual death of the people; they are not what they were in religion. I am now on the head branches of Opecken. I stopped awhile at J. H.’s, and then came on to Shep- herdstown. It was a very instructive time to me; I cannot pretend to preach, yet I talk a little to the dear people, who flock to see and hear me by hun- dreds: I hope to be as much resigned to a life of affliction as a life of health, and thus may I be per- fect in love and wholly crucified with Christ! I con- cluded, after my high fever and my being forced to bed, that it was out of the question for me to attempt to speak; but when I saw the people coming on every side, and thought “this may be the last time,” and considered I had not been there for nearly five 1794. | Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 313 years, I took my staff, faintly ascended the hill, and held forth on 1 John i, 6, 7, and felt strengthened, having a clear view of the word of God. After meet- ing we administered the sacrament, and I then ,e- turned to my bed. I preached at Fredericktown. Rode to Liberty. When I came there I was so faint, and my strength so spent, that I felt as if I could by no means attempt to preach; but after Brother R. had sung a hymn and prayed, I made a feeble attempt on Gal. i, 11, 12. Md] Asbury Submits to Have his Likeness Taken. Tuesday, 17. I rode twenty-three miles to the Stone Chapel, where I preached on Peter’s denial of his Lord. Wednesday, 18. I once more came to Baltimore, where, after having rested a little, I submitted to have my likeness taken. It seems they will want a copy, and if they wait longer perhaps they may miss it. Those who have gone from us in Virginia have drawn a picture of me, which is not ¢aken from the life. We called a meeting at Cokesbury, and made some regulations relative to the salaries of the teach- ers and the board of the students. I returned to Baltimore, and spent Sabbath day, 22d, there, and found the people but dull. Brother M’C. took his stand at the windmill between town and Point. My soul was quickened while applying these words: “Every knee shall bow, of things in heaven, things on earth, and things under the earth, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.” I was grieved to find the hearts of the people so cold in religion ; the world is a thief, stealing the heart from God. 314 Character and Career of [1794. Pa,] At the New African Church in Philadelphia, Sunday, 29. I preached at the new African church. Our colored brethren are to be governed by the doc- trine and discipline of the Methodists. We had some stir among the people at Ebenezer. In the evening we had a cold time at the great church on Amos iv, 11. This has been a hard day’s work. NUT] From Philadelphia to New York, Monday, 30. I rode to Trenton—an exceedingly warm day—and preached in the evening. We rode to Kingston ; thence to Brunswick; thence to Bon- hamtown, and were weary enough when we got to Mr. B.’s. Poor Brother S. almost fainted, and went, outdone, to bed. ‘ - Came to Elizabethtown, and was grieved at the conduct of some of the preachers. O how careful should each one be lest he become a stumbling-block and destroy precious souls! As I cannot help, so neither am I to answer for, other men’s sins. N.Y] Important Distinction—Asbury Firm. Friday, Fuly 4. Was the anniversary of Independ- ence. I preached on 2 Pet. iii, 20, 21. At dinner Mr. P. spoke a word in favor of Mr. G., (who was once with us, as also e had been 5) this brought on an explanation of matters. My answer was, 1. That I did not make rules, but had to exe- cute them. 2. That any one who desired me to act unconstitutionally either insulted me as an individ- ual or the conference as a body of men. I hardly know sometimes where to.set my foot. I must be 1794. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 315 always on my guard, and take heed to what I say of and before any one. Lord, make me upright in heart and life before thee and all men! Conn] Rate of Services, friday, 11. We came to New Haven; thence to North Haven; thence to Middlefields. The rain took us as we crossed the mountains, and made it heavy work. We found it poor times. Were I to be paid by man for my services I should rate them very high, it being so painful at present for me to ride that a small sum would not tempt me to travel forty miles a day. I bless the Lord for daily afflic- tions of body and mind. O may these things termin- ate in my total resignation to the will of God! The Old Prophet. Saturday, 12. The rain detained us till noon. I then came to Middletown, and preached at three o'clock in the Separate meeting-house with some life. I lodged with the old prophet, Frothingham. After this dear old man had labored and suffered many years, and had been imprisoned three times for the cause of Christ; after he grew old and his memory failed, and he could not receive the Vew Dzvinity, they mistook and wrested his words, and his congrega- tion turned him out to starve. But the Lord will provide. Mass.] Asbury in Boston—The Jack Tars, Monday, 21. I came to Boston unwell in body, and with a heavy heart. I passed the road and bridge from the University to Boston. A noble road and 316 Character and Career of [1794. grand bridge. We have very agreeable lodging in this town, but have to preach, as did our Lord, in an upper room. We had a prayer-meeting, and the Lord was present to bless us. Thursday, 22. I took up my cross and preached in a large room, which was full enough and warm enough. I stood over the street. The boys and Jack tars made a noise, but mine was loudest. There was fire in the smoke; some, I think, felt the word, and we shall yet have a work in Boston. My talk was strange and true to some. BIT] Not Free to Hat and Drink in Providence, Tuesday, 29. Rode through Attlebury to Provi- dence. I had no freedom to eat bread or drink water in that,place. I found a calm retreat at General Lippelt’s, where we can rest ourselves. The Lord is in this family. Iam content to stay a day, and give them a sermon. Conn.] New London Church Building, Friday, August 1. Brother R. preached in the even- ing in New London. Saturday, 2. I made my appearance in the court- house, and preached to about seven hundred people with considerable freedom. Sunday, 3. We had a love-feast in the upper room of the court-house, where some spoke feelingly. Our sermon and sacrament took up three hours. God is certainly among these people. We have set on foot a subscription to build a house of worship, and have appointed seven trustees. 1794.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 317 Ecclesiastical Chains—A Prophecy. Sunday, to. Brother R., though sick, went to Coven- try, and I was left alone at Tolland, where I preached in the forenoon, on Acts ii, 37, 38, with some free- dom, and in the afternoon on Colossians ii, 6, and found it heavy work. After meeting I was taken with a dysentery, (attended with great sinking of bodily powers,) which held me most of the night. Monday 1 was better, and preached in a school-house at Ellington. I felt great dejection of spirit, but no guilt or condemnation. Ah! here are the iron walls of prejudice; but God can break them down. Out of fifteen united States thirteen are free, but two are fettered with ecclesiastical chains—taxed to support ministers who are chosen by a small committee and settled for life. My simple prophecy is, that this must come to an end with the present century. The Rhode Istanders began in time; and are now free. Hail, sons of liberty! Who first began the war? Was it not Connecticut and Massachusetts? and priests are now saddled upon them. I heard -read a most severe letter from a citizen of Vermont, to the clergy and Christians of Connecticut, striking at the foundation and principle of the hierarchy, and the policy of Yale College and the independent order. It was expressive of the determination of the Ver- monters to continue free from ecclesiastical fetters, to follow the Bible, and give liberty, equal liberty, to all denominations of professing Christians. If so, why may not the Methodists (who have been repeat- edly solicited) visit these people also ? 318 Character and Career of [1794. Mass.] The New Chapel in Wilbraham. Sunday, 17. 1 came to the new chapel in Wilbra- ham, forty by thirty-four feet, neatly designed on the Episcopal plan. I preached to about four hundred people, who were very attentive, but appeared to be very little moved. The standing order have moved their house into the street, not far from ours, and they think, and say, they can make the Methodist people pay them; but I presume in this they are mistaken. Gonn.] Through Connecticut, Monday, September 8. We spent this day on the road, passing Windsor and East Hartford, and came to the city. The next day we reached Middletown, where I was taken ill. We have a call for preachers to go to New Hampshire and to the Province of Maine. 2 Wednesday, 10. We rose at three and set out at five o’clock, and breakfasted at North Haven. We came in the evening to Stratford, and had a little meeting, although I was heavy, sick, and sleepy. — Thursday, 11. We rode to General W.’s. Here I learn they guard Kingsbridge, and will not suffer any one to pass from New Haven. It is also said the pestilential fever prevails in the city of New York, having been brought there by a brig from the Islands. I thought it best to stop and consult the preachers in the Albany district before I go into the city. As the yellow fever is so prevalent in the West Indies, and our vessels continually trading there, the United States will partake, I fear, of their plagues; and so the Lord will punish us for our sins and prodigality. 1794. ] Bishop Asbury Tlustrated. 319 I only wish to be holy, and then let come whatever the Lord pleases. I came through Poquonnock, Fair- field, and Norwalk; but there is no room for the Methodists in those places. N. YJ A Methodist Church in Brooklyn. Sunday, 21. I preached in the old house on Psalm cxxxii, at the new church in the afternoon on Psalm i, and at Brooklyn in the evening. Here our brethren have built a very good house. The labors of the day, pain of body, and my concern for the peace of the Church, tended to keep me from proper rest, and caused an awful night. Monday, 22. We opened conference, and sat close- ly to our business. Several of our preachers want to know what they shall do when they grow old. I might also ask, What shall I do? Perhaps many of them will not live to grow old. Asbury Overworked. Tuesday, 23. I preached with liberty, but on Zhurs- day night I had a powerful temptation before I went into the church, which sat so heavily on me that I could not preach; yet I trust I was kept from sin. My sleep is so little that my head becomes dizzy, and distresses me much; four hours sleep in the night is as much as I can obtain. We concluded our work, and observed Friday as a day of abstinence and prayer, and had a good time at our love-feast. Sunday, 28. Preached at ten o’clock at Brooklyn. In the afternoon at the new church on “ Woe to them that are at ease in Zion!” I ordained seven deacons and five elders, and in the evening, at the old church, 322 Character and Career of [1794. discipline relative to the trial of members ; inquiring whether the “select members were as witnesses or judges, and had power to vote members in or out of society.” (Sec. viii, p. 56.) We answered them. Our collegiate matters now come toa crisis. We now make a sudden and dead pause. We mean to incorporate and breathe, and take some better plan. If we cannot have a Christian school (that is, a school under Christian discipline and pious teachers) we will have none. I had peace of mind, but not much rest. Va.J Sable Sons of Africa—The Question now Answered, Thursday, 30. Crossed the Potomac, at the mouth of Goose Creek, and came, unexpected by the breth- ren, to Leesburg. Thence we journeyed on through Prince William and Fauquier counties. We passed Germantown, and came along Rogues’ Road to Nor- man’s Ferry on Rappahannock, After a disagreea- ble journey, and being exposed to uncomfortable weather, on Tuesday, the 4th of November, we came safe to Father Kaubler’s, in Culpepper county. Thank the Lord, there is here and there a house for God. At Father K.’s I had many women and but few men to hear. Some of the men are gone to war, some to their sports, and some have no desire to hear. ; We rode ‘ten miles to Brother Frye’s. After a long absence of ten years I am here again. I learn that about the month of June last died the great poli- tician, Richard Henry Lee, of Westmoreland county, one who took an active part in promoting the inde- pendence of the United States of America. O when will liberty be extended to the sable sons of Africa? 1794. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 323 General Oonference Action on Slavery. Tuesday, November 25. We opened our conference, and had great siftings and searchings, especially on the subject of slavery. The preachers, almost unan- imously, entered into an agreement and resolution not to hold slaves in any State where the law will allow them to manumit them, on pain of forfeiture of their honor and their place in the itinerant connection ; and in any State where the law will not admit of manumis- sion, they agreed to pay them the worth of their labor, and when they die to leave them to some person or persons, or the society, in trust, to bring about their liberty. After raising and applying what money we could, (which was about 450,) we calculated that one fourth of the preachers at this conference had re- ceived for their salary the past year about £10; one half from about 412 to A415, and one fourth their full quarterage, (sixty-four dollars.) We had great peace, and not one preacher objected to his station. We sent an apology to our brethren in Petersburg for not having held conference there according to ap- pointment, for reasons already assigned. We were greatly obliged to our friends in Greenville for accom- modating the conference. Men and horses were well entertained—all for love. N.C] “Still Onward—Fainting but Fighting.” Saturday, December 13. We crossed Roanoke, and came to Mr. Smith’s, in Granville county. On Sunday, 16th, crossed Mountain and Grassy Creeks, and came to Brother Owens’s, whose wife is a true daughter of D. Grant, my dear old friend in Georgia. He was among the last fruits of that great man, Mr. 324 Character and Career of [1794. Davies, when he labored in Hanover, in Virginia, forty years ago. Monday, 15. Crossed the head streams of Tar River, which are only small branches, and rode on to R.’s, where I had an appointment, and found I had another twenty-five miles forward at L.’s ; so I left Brother C. to fill up my place, and went forward to the latter, where I preached to about two hundred people. I feel weak in body and mind, yet find my ‘soul stayed upon God. “ Still onward I go, fainting yet fighting.” Thursday, 18. I have a long journey to Charleston, (S.C.,) and but thirteen days to perform it, having appointed to be there the Ist of January. 8, 0] Oharleston Conference. Wednesday, 31. Myself with the main body of the preachers came into the city of Charleston. I felt faint and unwell after the fatigues I had passed through on my journey. : Thursday, Fanuary 1, 1795. New Year's Day. I was called upon to preach, unwell as I was, which I did on Psalm xc, 12. We entered on the business of our conference, and continued until Wednesday, 7th. We had preaching every night during the sitting of con- ference. It was the request of the conference that I should preach them a sermon on Tuesday night, with which I complied, and made choice of Jer. xxiii, 29-32. In times past I have endeavored to keep on traveling all the year, but I now judge it meet to stay in Charleston a little longer and then take the field ; yet it is with fear and trembling. ¥795.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 325 Asbury on Berridge. Sunday, February 1. I went to the church, and lectured on the second table of the law, attending particularly to our Lord’s comment on each precept. In the afternoon I enlarged on Jer. xxxi, 33, and Ido hope there was some stir in the hearts of the peo- ple. I began reading Berridge’s Christian World Unmasked. How like the man and his conversation, which I heard by the hour thirty years ago! I think there is some tartness in his Christian remarks om the Checks and dear Mr. Fletcher, of whom I have heard Mr. Berridge speak in terms of very great- respect. Prospective Work, Wednesday, 25. We had a love-feast for the Afri- cans, and many gave in their experiences with life. In the evening we had a love-feast for the whites. I have had a long stay here, and now rejoice in the hope of going again into the field to work. Nothing would have kept me here but the hope of preserving my health the other ten months of the year, which will enable me to run through North and South Carolina, the New Territory, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Jersey, New York, Con- necticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Province of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and sometimes Kentucky. The Third Revival. Friday, 27. Mr. Wesley lived to see two general revivals of religion: one at the beginning, the other about thirty-six years ago; though, doubtless, they had generally a gradual growth of religion. We also have had two revivals : one at the beginning, the other 326 Character and Career of [1795. about seven years ago. The third revival has now taken place in England, and I hope ours will soon follow. The New Still-House—A Warning. Saturday, March 14. I came to A.’s chapel, but ‘the weather was so exceedingly cold, and the house so open, that we went to the dwelling-house, where I preached and prayed, and (the people said) stormed and scolded. When meeting was over I saw the new still-house, which, as George Fox said, “struck at my life,” and we found it necessary to deal plainly with Brother about his distillery, and to tell him what we apprehended would be the consequence if persisted in. Its natural tendency would be to cor- rupt his family and the neighborhood, and to destroy the society. We came to G.’s meeting-house, where we had as wild and disorderly a congregation as could well be without words and blows. I preached a little, and stormed a great deal, but all would not do. N. 0] A Comprehensive Prayer, Friday, April 10. We came to G.’s, in Wilkes county. I fear lest darkness should be felt here. Ah, Lord, help me to go through good and evil re- port ; prosperity and adversity ; storms and calms ; kindness and unkindness ; friends and enemies ; life and death, in the spirit and practice of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! “From White's to Nelson's” Wednesday, 22. Crossed the Ridge, and kept on to the westward. We met Major J. White’s path, and found it abundantly better than the old one. We reached the top of the Ridge in about six miles. Here we found ourselves among fruitful hills ; then we had 1795.| Bishep Asbury Llustrated. 327 a good path for six miles more, except where there were some laurel branches and roots. We stopped at S.’s, and it was well we did, or we should have been well-nigh starved, both man and horse. I went on to D.’s, and thence to Nelson’s, where I met with Brothers B., A., and W., ancient men among us. I stood the fatigue and sleeping three in a bed better than I expected. From White’s to Nelson’s is eighty miles. We crossed the Wattawba about twenty times. At supper we ate of the perch that are taken in great plenty from Smith’s fish spring. I judge there must be a subterraneous communication from that to the river. I was led to speak with life and power on “Will ye also go away?” I spent a night with Brother Whitaker. I wish his wife may not love him to death. Tenn.] A New Meeting-House, Monday, 27. We hasted to F. Earnest’s, on Nola- chucky River, where we held our western conference. Here six brethren from Kentucky met us, and we opened our conference with twenty-three preachers, fifteen of whom were members. We received every man’s account of himself and his late labors, and in- quired of each man’s character among his brethren. Our business was conducted with love and harmony. Our brethren have built a meeting-house, and I must needs preach the first sermon, which I did on Exod. xx, 24. Nothwithstanding it was a time of great scarcity, we were well and most kindly entertained. Va.l "The “Hope” of Asbury now Realized, Monday, May 4. We rode thirty-five miles to the head branches of the main Holstein, and the next day reached Alfred's, on New River. 328 Character and Career of [1795. Wednesday, 6. We rode to Pepere’s ferry, and made it thirty-five miles to M’Daniel’s. Thursday we rode to Brother W.’s, near Fincastle, thirty-eight miles. The toils of this journey have been great, the weather sultry, the rides long, and roads rough. We suffered from irregularity in food and lodging, although the people are very kind, and give us the best they have, and that without fee or reward, so that I have only spent about two shillings in riding about two hundred miles. I hope posterity will be’ bettered by my feeble efforts. Hail, happy day of rest! It draws nigh, and this labor and toil will soon be at an end! Harper's Ferry—Its Impending Rocks, Monday, 18. We rode to Charlestown, Jefferson county, and lodged with a pious physician. Next morning breakfasted with J. H., and then came to Harper's Ferry, where the impending rocks impress the mind of the traveler with terror. This scene is truly awful and romantic. We came to S. Phillip’s, but were not expected until next week ; so I directed my course to Baltimore. Ma. Death of Judge White—His Character. Thursday, 21. We set out for Baltimore. The rain came on very heavily—I have not felt nor seen such since the sixth of March, since which time I have ridden about one thousand two hundred miles. This day I heard of the death of one among my best friends in America—Judge White, of Kent county, in the State of Delaware. Lord, help us all to live our short day to thy glory! I have lived days, weeks, 1795.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 329 and months in his house. O that his removal may be sanctified to my good and the good of the family! He was about sixty-five years of age. He was a friend to the poor and oppressed ; he had been a pro- fessed Churchman, and was united to the Methodist connection about seventeen or eighteen years. His house and heart were always open, and he was a faithful friend to liberty in spirit and practice; he was a most indulgent husband, a tender father, and an affectionate friend. He professed perfect love, and great peace, living and dying. Asbury Subject to Depression, Thursday, Fune 11. Still under awful depression. I am not conscious of any sin, even in thought; but the imprudence and unfaithfulness of others bear heavily on my heart. I feel a degree of willingness to die and enter into rest. For the first time I visited Centerville and preached in the new house. I saw Doctor Hall, who is greatly. changed since 1792, and under deep exercise about preaching, so that he cannot attend to his practice, and appears to be lost in thought. I wrote to him to try Baltimore. It is a pity such a man of sentiment, learning, and fine feeling should be lost. I rode home with R. W. He is rich in the world, but wants more of the life of religion ; he appears still to love the preachers and the cause of God. I received information that Doc- tor M.’s wife, before she died, manumitted her favor- ite servant-maid ; not long after the Doctor himself was called away, but before his removal he manu- mitted all his slaves. This man claimed no high Gospel light, and professed no more religion than the 330 Character and Career of [1795. generality of the world among us do. I have a hope that God is preparing me for greater usefulness in my latter days. O how happy should I be if after laboring thirty years, as I sometimes fear to very little profit, it should hereafter appear that hundreds have been converted by my ministry! Of late I have had but little to do but pray, preach, ride, converse, and take my necessary refreshment. Del. An Evening with Dr. A. Ridgeley. Wednesday, 17. 1 had a solemn season at Dover. I spent the evening with Doctor A. Ridgeley, in the late dwelling-house of his father. In some houses we serve the fathers, not the children ; in some the chil- dren, not the fathers; and in some we serve both parents and children. Pa] § Asbury Spends Three Days in Meeting Classes. Sunday, 21. I preached in the city of Philadelphia three times, not with the success I would wish. I was exceedingly assisted in meeting the classes, in which I spent three days, and am now of opinion that there is more religion among the society than I expected. I trust both they and myself will remem- ber this- visit for days to come. I was also much quickened in meeting the local preachers and leaders, who spoke feelingly of the state of their souls and the work of God. I now go hence to meet new troubles, and to labor while feeble life shall last. N. Jd Brother Morrell Sick but Recovering. Saturday, 27. 1 came to Elizabethtown, and found Brother Morrell (who had been bled and physicked 1795.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 331 almost to death) on the recovery. My troubles are greater than ever: my body is weak, and my spirits very low. At the request of my friends I stayed in town until Saday, and was assisted in a manner I least expected in preaching to about eighty people from 1 Cor. xv, §8. After sermon I called the soci- ety together, and had a melting time in speaking personally to each. N.Y The Bishop at Work in the Classes, Sunday, Fuly 5. I preached in Brooklyn in the morning, and returned to assist in the sacrament in the afternoon at the new church. I then met the black classes, and preached at half past six. I closed my day’s work by meeting two men’s classes. Monday, 6. 1 met nine classes ; so that I have now spoken to most of the members here, one by one. I left the city in peace, and received of their bounty toward bearing my expenses. We came to Stamford, where I preached in a private house. Gonn.] Asbury Preaches in Dr, Edwards's Meeting-House. Friday, 10. We had a very warm ride, fourteen miles, to New Haven. I think it as sultry here as it was the tenth of June in Delaware. Nothing would do but I must preach in Doctor Edwards’s meeting- house, which I did on these words: “Yea, doubt- less, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Jesus Christ my Lord.” Oonference at New London, Monday, 13. We had some life at Middle Haddam. Tuesday, 14, preached at New London about six 332 Character and Career of [1795. o'clock, where I found most of the preachers present. Wednesday, 15, we opened our conference, which consisted of about twenty members, and sat until noon on Saturday. We had great peace in our con- ference ; but some exercises relative to the externals arose from the ancient contest about baptism, these people being originally connected with those that are of that line. O what wisdom, meekness, pa- tience, and prudence are necessary! Our brethren were exceedingly kind, and I hope this conference will be for the good of the people in this place and thousands besides. BI] “Bither Oursing or Blessing.” Thursday, 23. We came in the evening to Provi- dence. When we entered the town some drunken fellows raised a cry and shout, and made a sacrifice of the Methodists to hell. Mr. is now pastor of, and the Tennant-house is shut against us. I wished to ride on and not to stop in town, but Mr. Robertson, an ancient Englishman, constrained us to turn in with him. We dined at Milton, and made it thirty miles to Boston, where I preached twice on the Sabbath (though very unwell) in a room that will hold about two hundred and fifty people. It seemed as if we hardly had either cursing or blessing among the people here. I have no doubt but that if we had a house we should command a large congre- gation; but we labor under great inconveniences where we preach at present. I feel myself feeble in body and faint in spirit; yet Christ is mine, and I hope to be his in time and forever. Amen. 1795.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 333 Mass.] Departure from Lynn—Brother Roberts. Sunday, August 2, Was a warm, sultry day. I rose in the morning very feeble in spirit, and attend- ed prayer-meeting at six o'clock. I preached three times, administered the sacrament, and met two classes, and was not so fatigued as I expected I should have been. I have had some refreshing sea- sons ; and now I bid farewell to Lynn for two years. I rode a solitary way through Malden, Mystic, and North Cambridge, and preached at Waltham, at five o'clock, to a few people; the great rain prevented many from attending. Brother Roberts took an in- termittent fever when we were at New Haven, and hath labored and suffered, sick or well, until he is almost dead. I received from the quarterly meeting held in Fairfield circuit what I should be glad to re- ceive once a year from every circult in the Union. It was as follows: “The preachers of the Methodist Episcopal order who have traveled on this circuit since the last conference have so conducted them- selves that their characters are unimpeachable.” Signed by the local preachers, exhorters, stewards, and leaders. Asbury's Plan for 1797, Monday, 10. 1 stopped and gave an exhortation at Springfield. After a-thunder-gust we came on to Agawomin. IfI accomplish the tour I have in con- templation it will make about six or seven hundred miles to the city of New York. I was stopped by the rain, but when I cannot do one thing another offers. I could read, write, pray, and plan. I laid out a plan for my travels in 1797: through Connect- 334 Character and Career of [1795. icut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Province of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, mak- ing a distance of twelve or fifteen hundred miles. I set out for Williamstown on the banks of Hoosac, on the west borders of Massachusetts. I lodged at Sister H.’s. I was well steeped in water, although my cloak saved me in a good degree, as is frequently the case. My rest was interrupted. To labor hard all the day, and have no sleep at night, ill suits the flesh. N.Y.) Ashgrove—Philip Embury. Friday, 21. We rode in the afternoon into the woods of Bennington. Preached at Brother D.’s, and had a melting, comfortable season with about fifty souls. There are sinners, Deists, Universalists, etc., and they all have something to say about re- ligion. I feel my soul stayed upon God, although I am in heaviness through manifold temptations. Saturday, 22. Brother Roberts and myself parted. He went to Pownell and myself to Ashgrove, where we have a society of about sixty members. They originated with P. Embury, who left the city of New York when the British preachers came there. He continued to pursue his purpose of forming societies in the country, but dying in a few years, the society was left, and were without preaching by the Meth- odists for fifteen years. We have now a neat little chapel here, Conn,] A Difference whether in Company with Saints or Sinners, Sunday, 23. My soul has been much quickened this Sadéath, and I find a difference between being 1795.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 335 among saints and sinners. We came through Cam- bridge county, now Washington, and passed Argyle- town, named after Argyle in Scotland. We came to Brother M.’s ; we and our horses were quite weary ; but it is enough, the Lord is with us. Let this suffice at all times and in every place. We came through a mere wilderness of swamp ; the roots of the white pine, beech, and hemlock were a good deal in our way. We reached Westfield, where is a considerable settlement and a promising society. N.Y] = Plattsburg Asking for Methodist Preachers, We passed Skeynesborough, and turned our course eastward through some rough ground, and came to Hampton township, where we held a quarterly meet- ing at Brother M.’s in a pleasant vale. We rode through considerable heat, nearly twenty miles, with- out obtaining any refreshment. I have reason to praise God that I have been able to travel from Lynn to this place; the distance the way I have come I compute to be about four hundred miles. I am now within a mile of the line of Vermont. There is only one county (in the State of New York) between this and Lower Canada. There is a place called Plattsburg, where they have often solicited us to send preachers. I find some similarity between the north- ern and western frontiers. Methodism at Coeyman’s Patent, Wednesday, September 2. We had asolemn meeting at Bethlehem, in Ashgrove. TZhursday, 3, we had a warm-hearted people at R.’s, and a better time than weakness of body or mind could promise. On Friday — we came to Lansingburg, and thence to Troy. At 336 Character and Career of (1795. last we got to Coeyman’s Patent, weary, sick, and faint, after riding thirty-six miles. Saturday, 5. We were crowded with people. I suppose we had, perhaps, a thousand at the Stone Church at Coeyman’s Patent, and I felt some life and warmth among them. Sunday, 6. In the morning we had baptism, ordina- tion, sacrament, and love-feast. Some spoke with life of the goodness of God. I gave them a discourse at eleven o'clock, and then went to bed with a high fever. Brother Roberts pleased, and I trust profited, the people with a discourse after I had done. Brother Garrettson Spiritually Rich. Saturday, 12, We reached Brother Garrettson’s, and Sundap, 13, I preached at R.’s chapel. Then returned to Rhinebeck chapel, and preached on Heb. xiii, 5. God once put into Brother Garrettson’s hands great riches of a spiritual nature, and he labored much. If he now does equal good according to his temporal ability he will be blessed by the Lord and by men. Conference at White Plains—Forty-three Preachers Present. Sunday, 20. I had a comfortable time at Croton chapel on Rom. i, 16. I returned to General Van Courtlandt’s, and dined with my dear aged friends. Shall we never meet again? We came to Fisher's, near the White Plains chapel, to hold conference. My soul is kept solemn, and I feel as if earth were nothing to me. I am happy in God, and not per- plexed with the things of this world. Tuesday, 22. A few of us met in conference, the main body of the preachers not coming in until about 1795.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 337 twelve o'clock. We went through the business of the conference in three days, forty-three preachers being present. I was greatly disappointed in not hearing the preachers give a full and free account of themselves and circuits. Although we sat ten hours in each day we did not close our business until Thursday evening, after sitting each night till twelve o'clock. N. 3] Through New Jersey Again, Friday, 25. We crossed Hudson River twenty-six miles above the city of New York, and came on to the waters of Hackensack, a river that is only thirty miles long and navigable two thirds of the way. We then came to Passaic River, crossed at Second River, and made out this day to ride forty miles, much fatigued. - Saturday, 26. We rode about thirty-two miles with but very little to eat ; however, we had the pleasure of seeing the famous Brunswick bridge, which is now nearly finished. It is the grandest of the kind I have seen in America. I was properly wearied, and pre- pared to rest on Sunday. I was sorely tired yester- day, more so than I have been these six weeks past. Monday, 28. We came to Monmouth. We would have gone to Shrewsbury, but time and horses failed us. I learn that the ancient spirit of faith, prayer, and power is taking place in a few places below. I was shocked at the brutality of some men who were fighting. One gouged out the other’s eye; the father and son then beset him again, cut off his ears and nose, and beat him almost to death. The father and son were tried for a breach of the peace and roundly fined, and now the man that lost his nose and ears is 22 338 Character and Career of [1795. to come upon them for damage. I have often thought that there are some things practiced in the Jerseys which are more brutish and diabolical than in any of the other States. There is nothing of this kind in New England: they learn civility there at least. “We rode twenty miles to Emley’s church, where the great revival of religion was some years ago. I felt a little of the old, good spirit there still. Thence we jour- neyed on to Penny Hill, fifteen miles, where I was enabled to speak strong words. Thence I came to New Mills, and gave them an alarming talk on judg- ment beginning at the house of God. Pa] Extensive Conference Appointments. Saturday, October 3. I came through the sand to Philadelphia, and on Sunday evening I preached on “ All seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.” Monday, 5. We opened our conference, and went on with great peace, love, and deliberation, but were rather irregular, owing to some preachers not coming in until the third or fourth day. We made better stations than could be expected, extending from Northampton, in Virginia, to the Seneca Lake. Md.J Oonference in Baltimore. Saturday, 17. I came to Baltimore to attend the quarterly meeting. Brother Whatcoat and myself* filled up Sunday, the 18th, and were crowded with people. Tuesday, 20. Our conference began. We had preachers from the Northern Neck, and what is called New Virginia, (Pitt District,) and the west of Maryland; about fifty-five in number. On Friday 1795.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 339 night there was a public collection for the assist- ance of the preachers who were deficient in their quarterage. Va,] Methodism Regains its Proper Tone, Monday, November 23. I preached at W.’s chapel, and in the evening came, cold and hungry, to L. Holmes’s, in Mecklenburg. Tuesday, 24. Our conference began at Salem chapel ; there were present about fifty members and sixteen probationers. We had close work, and great harmony in sentiment. Saturday, 28: Brothers A. and C. preached, and we had a warm, living season: Sunday, 29, was a great day. I preached on 1 Tim. iii, 15, 16, and there were ten elders and nine deacons ordained. This part of the connection has regained its proper tone, after being kept out of tune for five years by an unhappy division. We were kindly entertained by our friends and brethren. Preachers and people were blessed, and we parted in peace. N. 0.1 “Tf there were no Sinners.” Saturday, December 19. We crossed the south branch of Black River, and came to Elizabethtown, about fifty miles above Wilmington. We had a very cold day, and nothing to eat for thirty miles. Brother M’Rea met us near the town and took us to his house, and it was well he did, or we might have been lost in the woods. But the kindness of the people in supplying our wants made up for our toil. Lord, comfort them who comfort us! Here we had a quiet retreat, and spent the Sadéath in public and private exercises. 340 Character and Career of [1795. Monday, 21. We set out by sunrise, and had to work our way through the swamps, where I feared being plunged in head foremost. I have lately been much tried several ways, and much comforted. We came down Brunswick county, North Carolina, twenty miles to Norman’s, within the line of South Carolina. Cross where you will between the States, it is a miserable pass for one hundréd miles west. I was much led out on Rev. xxi, 6-8. This country abounds with bays, swamps, and drains. If there were here no sinners I would not go along these roads. Some- times I feel as though I could rejoice to die and go home ; but at other times the work of God is in my way, and sometimes my own unworthiness. 8. 0] Christmas Day—Only an Apple to Eat. Christmas Day, 25. We set out at six o'clock for Georgetown, and came to Urania ferry, which we crossed and came to Wacamaw River. We were detained at the two ferries about three hours, then rested one, and came to Georgetown about four o'clock in the evening, having ridden thirty-seven miles without eating or drinking, except a lowland hard apple which I found in my pocket. After ten years’ labor we have done but little ; but if we could station a preacher here we might yet hope for suc- cess. J found Brother Cannon had not labored in vain. He hath established class-meetings among white and black, and the good would have been still greater had prayer-meetings been properly kept up. We try to do good, but who among us try to do all they can? For myself, I have no company without fears of not having discharged my duty. Were it not 1795.] Bishop Asbury Mllustrated. 341 for Jesus, who would be saved? When I have preached I feel as though I had need to do it over again, and it is the same with all my performances: Brother Blanton, my faithful friend, who freely offered himself to go to South Carolina, now my companion in travel, had not preached for a month, so I thought it time for him to begin again, which he did in the evening. I preached on Psalm xii, 1, and on the Sad- bath 1 preached on Deut. v, 12-14. In the afternoon the people were attentive and somewhat moved. I find the scene is changed in Georgetown : we have a number of very modest, attentive hearers, and a good work among the blacks. The Methodists begin to stand on even ground with their antagonists. Cokesbury College Burned, Wednesday, 30. We reached Charleston, having made about seventy-four miles from Georgetown, along an excellent road. Here are the rich, the rice, and the slaves; the last is awful to me. Wealthy people settled on the rice lands of Cooper River hold froin fifty to two hundred slaves on a plantation in chains of bondage ; yet God is able of these stones, yea, of these slaveholders, to raise up children unto Abraham. My soul felt joyful and solemn at the thoughts of a revival of religion in Charleston. I find several young persons are brought into the fold of Christ. Thursday, 31. Several of the preachers came into the city to conference. We had a melting time at the love-feast at Brother. Wells's. friday, Fanuary 1, 1796. I gave them a sermon suited to the beginning of the year, and the sacred fire was felt. Saturday, 2, we began our conference, 342 Character and Career of [1796. Lord's Day, 3, was a day of extraordinary’ divine power, particularly at the sacrament; white and black cried out and shouted the praises of God— yea, ‘*Clap your hands, ye people all, Praise the God on whom ye call.” Monday, 4. We again entered on the business of conference. Present, about twenty members and seven graduates. Tuesday, 5, continued our business. We have great peace and love—see eye to eye, and heart to heart. We have now a second and confirmed account that Cokesbury College is consumed to ashes, a sacrifice of 410,000 in about ten years! The foundation was laid in 1785, and it was burned December 7, 1795. Its enemies may rejoice, and its friends need not mourn. Would any man give me £10,000 per year to do and suffer again what I have done for that house I would not do it. The Lord called not Mr. Whitefield nor the Methodists to build colleges. I wished only for schools ; Dr. Coke wanted a college. I feel distressed at the loss of the library. President Washington. Monday, 11. My soul is stayed upon God, momently looking unto him. In reading Mr. Winterbotham, I compared the great talk about President Washington formerly with what some say and write of him now, According to some he then did nothing wrong ; it is now said that he was always partial to aristocrats and Continental officers. As tothe latter, I ask, Who bought the liberty of the States? The Continental officers ; and surely they should reap a little of the sweets of rest and peace. These were not chimney- 17096. | Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 343 corner whigs. But favors to many of the officers now would come too late—a great number of them are gone to eternity, their constitutions being broken with hard fare and labor during the war. As to myself, the longer I live, and the more I investigate, the more I applaud the uniform conduct of President Washington in all the important stations which he has filled. | Asbury Happy with the Poor Slaves, friday, February 5, I spent in reading and writing, and observed it as a day of fasting and prayer. I felt myself under dejection of spirit. Ah! what a dreary world is this! My mind is under solemn im- pressions—the result of my reflections on God and souls. I will endeavor not to destroy myself above measure. If sinners are lost I cannot save them, neither shall I be damned for them. I was happy last evening with the poor slaves in Brother Wells’s kitchen, while our white brother held a sacramental love-feast in the front parlor up stairs. I must be poor: this is the will of God concerning me. The Methodists have now about ninety thousand members of society in Europe, about seventy thou-. sand in America and the Islands, and about four hundred in Africa. The Seventh Commandment. Sunday, 14. I began the solemnity of the day by opening and applying our Lord’s comment on the seventh commandment, which is designed to condemn the adultery of the heart. It appears to have been the will of our Lord not to give liberty fora second marriage while a former husband or wife is living. St. Paul 344 Character and Career of [1796. undoubtedly understood it so, even when heathen husbands left their wives, or wives their husbands. Asbury’s Labors in Charleston. Sunday, 28. My morning subject was Philippians i, 8, 9. In the evening I treated on wolves in sheep’s clothing. Some laughed, some wept, and some were vexed. Ah! how I wish to make my escape and be gone! I must pay for this indulgence with pain of mind. I feel for these souls. Many who have been sitting under my ministry appear more hardened than when I began first to preach to them, and no wonder, seeing they have so insulted the Spirit of God. Wednesday, March 2, For my unholiness and un- faithfulness my soul is humbled. Were I to stand in my own merit, where should I be or go but to hell? The time drawing nigh when I expected to leave the city, I was visited by my poor Africans, and had their prayers and best wishes. And now what have I been doing? I have preached eighteen sermons, met all the classes, fifteen in number, writ- ten about eighty letters, read some hundred pages, visited thirty families again and again. But who are made the subjects of grace? Such are my impres- sions that I am apprehensive God will work more in judgment than in mercy, and that this will be an eventful year to the inhabitants of this place. In the course of my stay here I have written more than three hundred pages on subjects interesting to the society and connection. Ga] “If They Gould Hear Me Think.” Thursday, 10. 1 crossed W.’s ferry.. The point on the south side is washed like a beach and the house 1796. ] Bishop Asbury Tlustrated. 345 swept away by the late freshets. I saw how the flood had plowed up the street of Augusta. I walked over the ruins for nearly two miles, viewing the deep gulfs in the main street. I suppose they would crucify me if I were to tell them it is the African flood; but if they could hear me think they would discover this to be my sentiment. I was honored with the church to preach in, where I had about four hundred respectable hearers. I have delivered my own soul, it may be once for al]. I have ridden about one hundred and ninety miles from Charleston into Georgia. I have attended four meetings, and have not had, in all, above six hundred hearers. 8. 0] Asbury a Friend of Learning. Tuesday, 29. T held forth about an hour and a half on Acts iii, 26. We set out again about two o'clock, and had to ride for our dinner only twenty miles. We crossed Muddy and Lick Creeks, Little and Great Bush Rivers. These afforded bodies of excellent land. Wednesday, 30. We had a meeting of the trustees of Bethel school, and it was agreed it should be a free school, and that only the English tongue and the sciences should be taught. I drew up an address on behalf of the school in order to raise three hundred dollars per annum to support a president teacher. I dined with my unshaken friend, W. P., an Israelite indeed. He hath all things richly to enjoy, and a good conscience also. He was formerly a traveling preacher among us, and labored for and with us nearly as long as he was able. The weather here is as warm as in the month of June to the north. I was so weary with the riding I could not sleep. 346 Character and Career of [1796. Asbury’s Wig! Sunday, April 3. A multitude of sinners came together at W. S.’s. I feel myself still faint and feeble, and would not live always. . Monday, 4. I crossed Fair Forest, and came to J. G.’s, where I had to stop and rest. Since I came into South Carolina I have ridden through New- bury, Spartansburg, Union, and Lawrence counties. There is a general complaint of the want of corn in these parts; and no wonder, when we consider the great storm which they have had, and the number of stills in the country. The people here drink their bread as well as eat it. I am so very poorly in body that close study injures me. I crossed Lawson Fork at the high shoals a little below the Beauty Spot. I could not but admire the curiosity of the people—my wig was as great a subject of speculation as some wonderful animal from Africa or India would have been. I had about one hundred people at the meeting-house. Some came to look at and others to hear me. We must needs go off without any din- ner, intending to ride nearly forty miles to Father Moore’s, in Rutherford county, (N.C.) After Broth- er M. and myself had preached we crossed the Cow Pens, where Morgan and Tarlton had their fray. We made it nearly twenty-five miles to the Upper Island ford, on the main Broad River, and after trav- eling until seven o'clock at night were glad to stop at Brother S.’s, ten miles short of the place we intended to reach when we set out. “HN. OG] A Mountain Wedding. Thursday, 14. We took our departure from John’s River, up the branches of Catawba. On our way we 1796.] Bishop Asbury llustrated. 347 met with a half dozen living creatures, like men and women, who seemed quite pleased with their mount- ain wedding. They were under the whip, riding two and two as if they would break their necks. One had a white cloth like a flag, and the other a silk handkerchief. When they had spent their fire they called at a still-house to prime again. I ascended about one mile up a mountain, and came to M. Davenport’s. Here I felt deep dejection of mind as well as great weakness of body, and as if I could lie down and die, owing, in some measure, I presume, to the great fatigue I underwent in ascending the mountain, which was very steep. Tenn] Conference—Parting with the Preachers, Monday, 18. I rested at D.’s; my body very feeble, and mind under exceeding dejection with imaginary and real evils. Tuesday, 19. This evening the preachers came in from Kentucky and Cumberland. Wednesday, 20. Our conference began in great peace, and thus it ended. We had only one preacher for each circuit in Kentucky, and one for Green circuit in Tennessee. Myself being weak, and my horse still weaker, I judged it impracticable to attempt going through the wilderness to Kentucky, and have concluded to visit Nolachucky. I wrote an apology to the brethren in Kentucky for my not coming, and informed them of the case. Monday, 25. On the banks of Nolachucky I parted with our dear suffering brethren going through the howling wilderness. I feel happy in God. Sinners appear to be hardened, and professors cold. The 348 Character and Career of [1796. preachers, although young men, appear to be solemn and devoted to God, and doubtless are men who may be depended upon. N.C] The Workmen Falling in Death, Sunday, May 1. We came to Acuff’s chapel. I found the family sorrowful and weeping on account of the death of Francis Acuff, who from a fiddler be- came a Christian ; from a Christian, a preacher ; and from a preacher, I trust, a glorified saint. He died in the work of the Lord in Kentucky. I found my- self assisted in preaching on Ephes. ii, 1,2. The house was crowded, and I trust they did not come together in vain. I was somewhat alarmed at the sudden death of Reuben Ellis, who had been in the ministry upward of twenty years—a faithful man of God, of slow but very solid parts. He was an excellent counselor, and steady yoke-fellow in Jesus. My mind is variously exercised as to future events—whether it is my duty to continue to bear the burden I now bear, or whether I had not better retire to some other land. Val “T Expect a Crown.” Saturday, 7. 1 escaped from Abingdon as out of a prison, and rode to Clinch. I passed by Mr. Cum- mings’s. He hath not labored for naught. Few men have a better house or plantation, but his plea is, “ He put his life in his hand ;” and so have I every time I have crossed the wilderness and mountains. I expect a crown for my services. Were I to charge the people on the western waters for my services I should take their roads, rocks, and mountains into the account, and rate my labors at avery high price. 1706. | Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 349 We crossed North Holstein and came to D.’s, six- teen miles, where we had a congregation of about two hundred people. Indian Barbarities—A Thrilling Narrative. Monday, 9. 1 hobbled over the-ridge, through the capital part of Russell county, sixteen miles to B.’s. . These people have lived in peace ever since the death of Ben, the half-blooded Indian warrior, who was shot through the head while carrying off two women. He was a dreadful wicked wretch, who, by report, may have been the agent of death to nearly one hundred people in the wilderness and on Rus- sell. Here I preached to a few insensible people, and had time to read, write, and sleep in quiet. Yesterday our prayers were requested on behalf of F.D. This day in the evening Brother K. was called upon to perform her funeral solemnities. Perhaps she has been as great a female sufferer as I have heard of. The following account, in substance, was taken from her own mouth, some time ago, by J. Kobler, who performed her funeral rites. Her maiden name was Dickenson. She was mar-- ried to a Mr. Scott, and lived in Powell’s Valley, at which time the Indians were very troublesome, often killing and plundering the inhabitants. Ona certain evening, her husband and children being in bed, eight or nine Indians rushed into the house. Her husband being alarmed started up, when all that had guns fired at him. Although he was badly wounded he broke through them all and got out of the house. Several of them closely pursued him, and put an end to his life. They then murdered and scalped all her 350 Character and Career of [1796. children before her eyes, plundered her house, and took her prisoner. The remainder of the night they spent around a fire in the woods, drinking, shouting, and dancing. The next day they divided the plunder with great equality. Among the rest of the goods was one of Mr. Wesley’s hymn-books. She asked them for it, and they gave it to her; but when they saw her often reading therein they were displeased, called her a conjurer, and took it from her. After this they traveled several days’ journey toward the Indian towns ; but, said she, my grief was so great I could hardly believe my situation was a reality, but thought I dreamed. To aggravate my grief one of the Indians hung my husband’s and my children’s scalps to his back, and would walk the next before me. In walk- ing up and down the hills and mountains I was worn out with fatigue and sorrow. They would often laugh when they saw me almost spent, and mimic my panting for breath. There was one Indian who was more humane than the rest. He would get me water, and make the others stop when I wanted to rest. Thus they carried me on eleven days’ journey, until they were all greatly distressed with hunger. They then committed me to the care of an old Indian at the camp, while they went off hunting. While the old man was busily employed in dress- ing a deer-skin, I walked backward and forward through the woods, until I observed he took no notice of me. I then slipped off, and ran a considerable distance and came to a cane-brake, where I hid my- self very securely. Through most of the night I heard the Indians searching for me, and answering each other with a voice like that of an owl. Thus 1796.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 351 was I left alone in the savage wilderness, far from any inhabitants, without a morsel of food, or any kind of help but the common Saviour and friend of all. To him I poured out my complaint in fervent prayer that he would not forsake me in this distress- ing circumstance. I then set out the course that I thought Kentucky lay, though with very little ex- pectation of seeing a human face again, except that of the savages, whom I looked upon as so many fiends from the bottomless pit, and my greatest dread was that of meeting some of them while wandering in the wilderness. One day as I was traveling I heard a loud human voice, and a prodigious noise, like horses running. I ran into a safe place and hid myself, and saw a com- pany of Indians pass by, furiously driving a gang of horses which they had stolen from the white people. I had nothing to subsist upon but roots, young grape- vines, and sweet-cane, and such like produce of the woods. Iaccidentally came where a bear was eating a deer, and drew near in hopes of getting some ; but he growled and looked angry, so I left him, and quickly passed on. At night when I lay down to rest I never slept, but I dreamed of eating. In my lonesome travels I came to a very large shelving rock, under which was a fine bed of leaves. I crept in among them, and determined there to end my days of sorrow. I lay there several hours, until my bones ached in so distressing a manner that I was obliged to stir out again. I then thought of and wished for home, and traveled on several days, till I came where Cumberland River breaks through the mountain, 352 Character and Career of [1796. I went down the cliffs a considerable distance until I was affrighted, and made an attempt to go back, but found the place down which I had gone was so steep that I could not return. I then saw but one way that I could go, which was a considerable perpendic- ular distance down to the bank of the river. I took hold of the top of a little bush, and for half an hour prayed fervently to God for assistance. I then let myself down by the little bush until‘it broke, and I went with great violence down to the bottom. This was early iw the morning, and I Jay there a consider- able time, with a determination to go no further. About ten o’clock I grew so thirsty that I conéluded to crawl to the water and drink, after which I found I could walk. The place I came through, as I have been since informed, is only two miles, and I was four days in getting through it. I traveled on until I came to a little path, one end of which led to the inhabitants, and the other to the wilderness. I knew not which end of the path to take. After standing and praying to the Lord for direction, I turned to take the end that led to the wilderness. Immediately there came a little bird of a dove-color near to my feet, and fluttered along the path that led to the in- habitants. I did not observe this much at first, until it did it a second or third time. I then understood this as a direction of Providence, and took the path which led me to the inhabitants. Immediately after her safe arrival she embraced religion, and lived and died an humble follower of Christ. Tenn. ] “Ab, If I were Young Again!” Friday, 20. We rode forty miles to Indian Creek, about fifteen miles above the mouth. We had no 1796.] Bishop Asbury Ilustrated. 353 place to dine until we arrived at Father C.’s about six o'clock. If I could have regular food and sleep I could stand the fatigue I have to go through much better. But this is impossible under some circum- stances. To sleep four hours, and ride forty miles without food or fire, is hard, but we had water enough in the rivers and creeks. I shall have ridden nearly one thousand miles on the western waters before I leave them. I have been on the waters of Nola- chucky to the mouth of Clinch ; on the north, middle and south branches of Holstein; on New River, Green Brier, and by the head springs of Mononga- hela. If I were able I should go from Charleston, (S. C.,) a direct course, five hundred miles to Nola- chucky ; thence two hundred and fifty miles to Cum- berland ; thence one hundred to Kentucky ; thence one hundred miles through that State, and two hun- dred to Saltsburg; thence two hundred to Green Brier; thence two hundred to Red Stone, and three hundred to Baltimore. Ah, if I were young again! I was happy to have a comfortable night’s sleep after a hard day’s ride, and but little rest the night before. I have now a little time to refit, recollect, and write. “Here forts and savages once hada being, but now peace and improvement. Monday, 23. I rode to Rehoboth chapel, in the sinks of Green Brier, where we held conference with a few preachers. Here] delivered two discourses. Zhuzs- day, crossed Green Brier River, and had to pass along a crooked and dangerous path to Benton’s. My mind is in peace. F 3 354 Character and Career of [1796. Pa,] Conference at Uniontown. Saturday, Fune 11. I rode to Uniontown, and after a solemn meeting I sat in conference with the preachers. Monday, 13. We left Uniontown and rode about thirty-five miles and the next day forty-five to J. F.’s. Maj A Review. Tuesday, 21. I preached in Fredericktown at ten o’clock and at Libertytown at five o’clock. Wednesday, 22. I had some life at the new meet- ing-house on the Ridge. I borrowed a horse to ride nine miles, and then made out to get to Baltimore. O what times arehere! Theacademy is crowded; they have five teachers and nearly two hundred scholars. I will now take a view of my journey for some months past. From the best judgment I can form the dis- tance is as follows: from Baltimore to Charleston, (S. C.,) one thousand miles ; thence up the State of South Carolina two hundred miles ; from the center to the west of Georgia two hundred miles ; through North Carolina one hundred miles ; through the State of Tennessee one hundred miles ; through the west of Virginia three hundred miles; through Pennsyl- vania and the west of Maryland, and down to Balti- more, four hundred miles. I was employed in town as usual in preaching and meeting classes, etc. I continued in town until Thursday, 30, and then set off and came in the evening to Esquire G.’s, our ancient lodging, and was received with their usual kindness. 1796.] ~ Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 355 Large Oongregations in Delaware. Monday, Fuly 11. We came to Snow Hill on Poco- moke River. I called on the weeping Widow Bowen, whose late husband, after being the principal in build- ing a house for divine worship, died in peace. Here I met about one thousand people. Being unable to command the congregation from the pulpit, I stood in one of the doors, and preached to those who were out of the house. ‘ Tuesday, t9. We rode forty miles to Lewistown. We stopped to dine near H.’s grand mill-seat. My spirits of late keep up greatly, not being subject to depres- sion as heretofore. It cleared away about noon, and gave us the opportunity of riding two miles out of Lewistown, after preaching to the brethren and the Africans. I dined with Mr. Shanklin, whose house was the first that was opened to me in this place. We then urged our way up the county, and escaped the rain until we came within two miles of Milford. It then poured down heavily, and we came in dripping about eight o’clock. Friday, 22. We had a living love-feast. Many opened their mouths, but spoke too much of what was past. We had an exceeding great company, to whom I preached on Isaiah Ixii, 12. The two follow- _ ing days, Saturday and Sunday, I attended Dover quarterly meeting, where I suppose we had nearly two thousand people. It was a living, open season. There was great sweetness and love among. the brethren. 356 Character and Career of [1796. Pa,] Asbury Originates a Fund for the Support of the Ministry. Sunday, 31. 1 had some life and more liberty at Ebenezer in the morning at five o'clock. I must needs attend the second African church; and at half past seven o'clock, in the great unwieldy house and congregation in Fourth street, I preached on John i, 17. Monday, August 1. I drew the outlines of a sub- scription, that may form a part of a constitution of a general fund, for the sole purpose of supporting the traveling ministry. To have respect, 1. To the single men that suffer and are in want. 2. To the married traveling preachers. 3. To the worn-out preachers. 4. To the widows and orphans of those who have lived and died in the work. And 5. To enable the yearly conference to.employ more married men; and, finally, to supply the wants of all the traveling preachers, under certain regulations and restrictions, as the state of the fund will admit. Friday, 5. Having concluded on the presentation of the subscription, I hasted with it from house to house. N. J.J] Laying a Corner-Stone near Schooley's Mountain. Tuesday, 9. We made our way twenty-five miles to Brother M’Collough’s, near Schooley’s mountain, properly a remnant of the Blue Ridge. After a good. meeting at Brother M’C.’s we went to lay the foun- dation of a new meeting-house. We sang part of Dr. Watts’s hymn on “ The Corner-Stone,” and prayed. I then had to lend a hand to lay the mighty corner- stone of the house. We then sung and prayed, and 1796. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 357 retired to Brother Budd’s, an Israelite indeed, my never-failing friend in time, and I hope will be to all eternity. Wednesday, 10. I thought it good not to be idle, so I went to Hackettstown and preached on “The prom- ise is to you and to your children,” etc. We had few people, but a feeling, serious time. Thence we rode to Dover, where we had many people at a short warn- ing. I admired the solemnity of the women; the men appeared to be outdone with the heat and labors of the day. N. Y.] Asbury Preaches Three Times, and Meets Six Classes in One Day. Sunday, 28. I preached in the morning in John- street, in the afternoon at the new church on Heb. ii, 3, and in the evening at the old church again on Rev. if, 2, 3, besides meeting six classes in the course of the day. In general I have had no extraordinary assistance in preaching of late. Brother L. preached twice in the north end of Broadway; the congrega- tion appeared serious and attentive. Notwithstand- ing the labors of the day were considerable, I was not much wearied. In meeting the society I observed to them that they knew but little of my life and la- bors, unless in the pulpit, family, or class meetings ; that they were unacquainted with my labors even in that city, much less could they tell where I had been, and what I had been doing for one year. Definition of Heresy and Schism, Wednesday, 31. Thad a meeting with the leaders in close conference, and found it necessary to explain some parts of our discipline to them, particularly that on ae 358 Character and Career of “[1796. of the right of preachers to expel members *when tried before the society or a “select number,” and found guilty of a breach of the law of God and our rules; and if an appeal were made, it should be brought before the quarterly-meeting conference, composed of traveling and local preachers, leaders, and stewards, and finally be determined by a majority of votes. I found it also needful to observe there was such a thing as heresy in the Church; and I know not what,it is if it be not to deny the Lord that bought them, and the eternity of the punishment of the damned, as is virtually done by the Universalists. Schism is not dividing hypocrites from hypocrites, for- mal professors from people of their own caste ; itis not dividing nominal Episcopalians from each other, nom- inal Methodists from nominal Methodists, or nominal Quakers from nominal Quakers, etc. But savésm is the dividing real Christians from each other, and breaking the unity of the Spirit. I met the trustees, and after going hither and thither, and being much spent with labor through the day, I gave them a dis- course at the new house (in the evening) on Acts xx, 32, My attempt was feeble but faithful. Oonn.] Old Haddam, Monday, September 12. I came to Old Haddam. Here they have built a new meeting-house, and there are some gracious souls here. I sensibly felt the ef- fects of heat and the labors of the day. We made it fifteen miles to Father Wilcox’s. I conclude that’ since I have left New York I have ridden about one hundred and forty miles, and a great part of the way is rough and rocky; my body is full of infirmities, . 1796.] Bishop Asbury TMlustrated. 359 and my soul of the love of God. I think that*God is returning to this place, and that great days will yet come on in New England. A Oonference of Thirty Preachers, Monday, 19. We rode through Windham, Scotland, and Abingdon. After dining at Captain P.’s we rode on to Thompson; a few of the preachers were present, and we were able to form aconference. ‘That evening and the next morning, Tuesday, 20, and Wednesday, 21, we were closely employed ; we had about thirty preach- ers, some of whom were from the Province of Maine, three hundred miles distant, who gave us a pleasing relation of the work of God in those parts. I deliv- ered a discourse on Acts xxvi, 18, 19, and we ordained seven deacons and five elders. About four o’clock I took my leave of town, and stopped at Eastford and saw Father , a solemn saint, lamenting the de- cline of religion among the Baptists. N.Y] Asbury Preaches with Deep Emotion. Sunday, October 2. I preached at the house in John-street on Eph. iv, 11-13, and had great enlarge- ment; the feelings of the people were touched, and my own also, as if it had been the last time, as it probably may be with some of my hearers if not myself. Icould not have been much more moved ; it was with difficulty I could continue speaking. In the afternoon, at the new house, there was also a move in the congregation while I enlarged on 1 Cor. iv. 10, 11. I ordained in both houses, in all, eight deacons and seven elders, and was on my feet six hours in the course of this day. 360 Character and Career of '[1796. N. J.J Weary and Unwell, yet Cheerful. Tuesday, 4. We came to the Ferry, and after be- ing detained about an hour we made out to get a passage. Here we met with the preachers who had been retarded in their journey by the late storm. I pushed along, weary and unwell, to Brother Hutchin- son’s, and next day, faint, though cheerful, we reached Burlington. Thursday, 6. We reached Philadelphia about noon. My mind is in peace, but my body and spirits fail. Pa,] “@reat Love and Great Riches,” Monday, 10. We opened a conference of between forty and fifty preachers. We had great love and great riches also. Never before have we been able to pay the preachers their salaries, but at this conference we have done it, and had two hundred dollars left for debts and difficulties the preachers had been in- volved in. Del.J Asbury Seldom Travels on the Sabbath. Saturday, 15. We dined at Chester with my dear old friend, M. Whitby, and came in the evening to Wilmington. Sabbath Day, 16. The morning was rainy, but we had afew serious people to whom I preached on Rev. ii, 1-7. My soul enjoys sweet peace. Being in haste to get to Baltimore, we rode on the .Saddath afternoon to my old friend S. Heansey’s ; of this I am not fond, and where necessity does not compel me, rarely do it. I turned out of the way on Monday to preach at Bethel, in the place of Dr. Coke; my subject was, “Let us labor to enter into that rest, lest any man 17096.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 361 fall after the same example of unbelief.” It was a happy season. In the course of the day I rode thirty-five miles and lodged at North East. Ma] General Conference of 1796, Wednesday, 19. We came‘to Baltimore, where about a hundred preachers were met for general con- ference. They agreed to a committee, and then com- plained ; upon which we dissolved ourselves. I preached on “The men of Issachar that knew what Israel ought to do;” and again on “Neither as be- ing lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” There were souls awakened and con- verted. No angry passions were felt among the preachers ; we had a great deal of good and judicious talk. The conference rose on Thursday, the 3d of November ; what we have done is printed. Bishop Coke was cordially received as my friend and col- league, to be wholly for America, unless a way should be opened to France. At this conference there was a stroke aimed at the president eldership. I am thankful that our session is over. My soul and body have health, and have hard labor. Brother What- coat is going to the south of Virginia, Brother M’Clas- key is going to New Jersey, Brother Ware to Penn- sylvania, and Brother Hutchinson to New York and Connecticut. Very great and good changes have taken place. Va.] Coke, Whatcoat, and Asbury. Saturday, November 5. We rode twenty miles, and on Sabbath morning we came directly to Alexandria. Doctor Coke preached on “ The wise men that came to Jesus.” Brother Whatcoat and myself exhorted. 362 Character and Career of [1796. Rejecting Mr, Wesley—Asbury’s Statement, Monday, 28. We crossed a small ferry, and came through Suffolk to Brother Jolliff’s, twenty-two miles. I had solemn thoughts while I passed the house where Robert Williams lived and died, whose funeral rites I performed. The weather is remarkably cold for the season, the ice being more than an inch thick on the streams. I was amazed to hear that my dear aged friend, Benjamin Evans, (now gone to glory,) was converted to the new side by being told by J. O'Kelly that I had offended Mr. Wesley, and that he being about calling me to account, I cast him off al- together. But, guery, did not J. O’K. set aside the appointment of Richard Whatcoat? and did not the conference in Baltimore strike that m¢xu¢e out of our discipline which was called a rejecting of Mr. Wesley ? and now does J. O’K. lay all the blame onme? Itis true, I never approved of that binding minute. I did not think it practical expediency to obey Mr. Wesley, at three thousand miles distance, in all matters rela- tive to Church government; neither did -Brother Whatcoat, nor several others. At the first General Conference I was mute and modest when it passed, and I was mute when it was expunged. For this Mr. Wesley blamed me, and was displeased that I did not rather reject the whole connection, or leave them if they did not comply. But I could not give up the connection so easily, after laboring and suffer- ing so many years with and for them. After preach- ing at Jolliff’s we rode to Portsmouth, and preached in the evening, where we had many people at a short warning. My subjects this day were 1 John i, 3, 4, and Isa. i, 9. We visited Norfolk, and preached at 17096.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 363 noon, Wednesday, 30, on 1 Peter ii, 11, 12; at night on I Cor. xv, 58. “Noble Animal—Poor Slaves.” Monday, December 19. We had to ride early; my horse trots stiff; and no wonder, when I have ridden him, upon an average, five thousand miles a year for five years successively.. I preached on Heb. iii, 7, 8. I felt as if the Lord and his messengers had left this place. My spirit was grieved at the conduct of some Methodists that hire out slaves at public places to the highest bidder, to cut, skin, and starve them. I think such members ought to be dealt with. On the side of oppressors there are law and power, but where are justice and mercy to the poor slaves? what eye will pity, what hand will help, or ear listen to their distress? I will try if words can be like drawn swords, to pierce the hearts of the owners. 8. 0.) Serious News from Baltimore. Friday, 30. We set out in the rain, crossed Santee, (we had a quick passage for once,) and rode about fifty miles, and came to Brother Jackson’s about nine o'clock. Here our rapid march was ended; I rested two days. Serious news from Baltimore—the acad- emy, and our church in Light-street, with Brother Hawkins’s elegant house, all destroyed by fire! The loss we sustain in the college, academy, and church I estimate from fifteen to twenty thousand pounds. It affected my mind ; but I concluded God loveth the people of Baltimore, and he will keep them poor to make them pure; and it will be for the humiliation of the society. 364 Character and Career of [1797. Asbury’s Depression of Spirits Constitutional, Sunday and Monday, Fanuary 29, 30, 1797. I consulted a physician, who judged my disease to be an intermittent fever, and such it proved itself. On Tuesday, 31, I was taken about two o’clock with a powerful ague, which held me till nearly nine o'clock. I presume it has been working for two weeks. I probably took it by going out at the death of Brother Wells. Wednesday, February t, | took the powders of Columbo after the bilious pills. Thursday, 2, my fever did not return. Friday, 3. Growing better, I had serious thoughts about going home to God. Of late I have been kept uncommonly happy. Iam sol- emnly given up to God, and have been for many months willing to live or die in, for, and with Jesus. “The Pain of Parting.” Friday, 10. This day Dr. Coke is waiting to sail for Ireland. Strangers to the delicacies of Christian friendship know little or nothing of the pain of part- ing. Glad tidings of great joy from New York. A second glorious work is begun there, twenty souls converted, a great love-feast, and Sabbath evening meeting held until one o’clock in the morning. This news hath given a spring to us in this city. Church Building in Charleston. Tuesday, 14. I met the stewards on the subject of the new house. We have adjourned on the question. If materials fall in their price, and we can secure 4400, shall we begin? O we of little faith! Itisa doubt if we had fifty in society, and £100 on hand, when we laid the foundation-stone of Cumberland- 1797.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 365 street house, which cost us (including the lot) £1,300. The society has been rent in twain, and yet we have wrought out of debt, and paid £100 for two new lots, and we can spare 4100 from the stock, make a sub- scription of £150, and the Africans will collect 4100. Generosity of a Poor Black, Tuesday, 21. My mind has been greatly afflicted, so that my sleep has been much interrupted, yet’ there was a balm for this: a poor black, sixty years of age, who supports herself by picking oakum and the charity of her friends, brought me a French crown, and said she had been distressed on my ac- count, and I must have hermoney. Butno! although T have not three dollars to travel two thousand miles, I will not take money from the poor. I am very un- well, my soul and body is distressed ; ah! that such trifles should affect me. I have read four books of Moses critically. “Hail, Ye Solitary Pines!” Monday, 27. I felt a fever, yet rejoiced to leave Charleston. Many came to see me. I have per- suaded one person to give up the.use of what I feared would be her ruin: she promised she would; if so, all will be well. On my way I felt as if I was let out of prison. Hail, ye solitary pines! the jessamine, the redbud, and dogwood! how charming in full bloom ! the former a most fragrant smell. We reached Monk’s Corner, and were most agreeably entertained at Mr. Jones’s. We came on the next day, and had but hard fare till we reached Nelson’s ferry. It being a rainy day, the gentlemen were regaling themselves 366 Character and Career of [1797. with cards. Blunt Frank Asbury asked for dinner, but told them he could not dine upon cards. The cards were very politely put away, and every neces- sary mark of attention paid. Mr. Gurdine, who com- mands several ferries on the river, is a complete gen- tleman. We came off in the rain, and it fell very freely. Through the swamp we had deep wading, and steeped our feet. We wrought along as night -came on, and after riding four miles in the dark, dirt, and rain we came to the Widow Bowman’s, where I found shelter and was kindly entertained. Her hus- band was a godly, gracious man, and died in the Lord some years ago, N. 0] Asbury Preaches Sitting. Sunday, March 12, We were at Daniel Asbury’s. My leg was inflamed by riding, and I found it neces- sary to poultice it. I sat down and taught the people on “He that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” We had aliving meeting in the evening ; some souls were greatly blessed. Crossing Toe River. ” Friday, 24. I was unwell; the clouds were lower- ing. We had ridden but a mile when the rain began. Brother Jones’s house was at hand. Here we stopped two hours, until some of the rain fell to the earth. There was a short cessation, and about half-past twelve o’clock we set out again, rode six miles, and were driven into Mr. Cook’s by thunder, hail, and rain. Here we stopped to talk with God and man. Hard necessity made us move forward ; the western branch of Toe River, that comes down from the Yel- 1797] Bishop Asbury IMustrated. 367 low Mountain, was rapidly filling, and was rocky, rolling, and roaring like the sea, and we were com- pelled to cross it several times. When we came to ascend the mountain we had a skirmish of rain, thunder, and lightning—it was distant—it was mercy. I found hard work to ride where Thomas White had driven his wagon, for which he deserves a place in my journal and a premium from the State. When we had ascended the summit of the mountain we found it so rich and miry that it was with great diffi- culty we could ride along; but I was wrapped up in heavy, wet garments, and unable to walk through weakness of body, so we had it, pitch, slide, and drive to the bottom. We then came upon the drains and branches of Great Toe River. From Fisher’s we had to ride through what I called the shades of death, four miles to Millers. Here we had to cope with Toe River, and near the house came into deep water. My horse drove to the opposite bank above the land- ing and locked one of his feet in a root, or something like it, but freed himself. At last we made the house ; the people received us kindly, and gave us such things as they had. We could only partially dry our garments. Tenn.] “Live or Die, I Must Ride,” Wednesday, 29. I rode to William Nelson’s and after dinner to Nathan Davies’s. Thursday morning I was very weak, and have slow, but almost continual fevers. I preached with great difficulty in the after- noon, and returned to William Nelson’s. This night I felt a total change of mind. The weakness of my body, and the cold and unsettled state of the weather, made me, with the general advice of the preachers 368 Character and Career of [1797. present, give up the cause ; they also advised me to make the best of my way to Baltimore, and not to ride in the rain. It may be the Lord intends to lead me in a way I have not yet known; it is perhaps best that I should go with all expedient haste from conference to conference, only stopping at the towns and chief places on Sabbath days. Live or die, I must ride. After all the disappointments, perhaps every purpose is answered but one. I have sent Brother Cobler to take charge of Kentucky and Cum- berland, by visiting the whole every quarter ; Brother Bird I have stationed in the Holstein district. I have written a circumstantial letter to Brother Poythress and the Kentucky Conference. I have made a plan for the stationing of the preachers, at least those of any standing, and now I will make the best of my way to Baltimore ; perhaps there may be some special call for me there. I must, as the burden of meeting the conferences, ordaining, and stationing the preach- ers resteth on me, save myself. I am peculiarly con- cerned for the cities ; the prosperity of the work of God depends much on having proper men for any and every part of the work. Va] A List of Sympathizing Friends, April 10. My fever never left me, as I thought, from Monday until Friday night. Iam kept cheerful, but very weak. My diet is chiefly tea, potatoes, Indian- meal gruel, and chicken broth. My reading is only the Bible ; I cannot think much, and only write a few letters. I think of my charge, of the conferences, and the Church, and of my dear parents, who will probably outlive me. I must be made perfect through 1797.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 369 sufferings. I rest in rainy weather, and have to ride from eighty to one hundred and twenty miles in a week. The way we now go we have sometimes to ride thirty miles to get to a house. From the 9 of April to the 27th of May I have kept no journal. The notes of our travels and troubles taken by Jona- than Bird and Joshua Wells will tell a small part of my sorrows and sufferings. I have traveled about six hundred miles, with inflammatory fever and fixed pain in my breast. I cannot help expressing the dis- tinguishing kindness of some families where I have been forced by weakness to stop—Captain Shannon, on Walker’s creek; my friend Scarborough, on the sinks of Green Brier; Colonel Moffat and Brother Young, in Augusta; neither can I forget Mr. Lee and Mr. Moore; the Harrisons, at Rocktown, and Brother and Sister M’Williams ; Sisters Phelps and Reed, in Winchester, and my dear, kind friend, Doc- ton Tiffin. Bya strange providence I was cast upon Ely Dorsey, on Linganore, who nursed me as if I had been his own father. Md] “A Worthless Lump of Misery and Sin.” From the 27¢# of May until Sune 10, no journal. We rode nearly forty miles from Linganore to Balti- more. I lodged at Brother Hawkins’s retreat, about one mile from the city. I lounged away a week in visiting a little. Sunday, Fune 18. I was only able to speak about fifteen minutes. I recover but slowly. The constant resort of the wealthy and poor visiting me made me much ashamed that they should look after such a worthless lump of py ae sin, 370 Character and Career of [1797. “My Bow is Weak if not Broken,” Saturday, Fuly 8. I cannot now, as heretofore, spend ten hours out of sixteen in reading the Bible in English or Hebrew, or other books, or write letters from morning until night. My bow is weak if not broken ; but I have more time to speak to God and souls. Sabbath day I performed at Mr. Gough’s alone. Pa] Asbury Cannot be Inactive. Saturday, 15. Warm as it was I reached Philadel- phia, and Sabbath evening, 16, I felt free to labor a little, feeble as I was, and enlarged on John xiv, 1. I have great reason to be thankful for my sulky; I should soon be silent without it. I rode to German- town to see aged Mother Steel and Sister Lusby, and found freedom, although I could hardly walk or talk, yet must needs speak to the women of the house about their souls. Dined at Brother Baker's retreat, and came back to the city very sick and went to bed. Nd] A Living Fire Kindled in New Brunswick, Monday, 24. We came to Brunswick. Dined, prayed, and rejoiced to hear that God had kindled a living fire here through the instrumentality of a brother from Elizabethtown. We came on to Eliza- bethtown, forty miles. It was ample labor for man and horse. Here I was sick again. Tuesday, 25. I rode to Newark, and dined with Mr. Ogden, a steady friend. After the rain I came to New York. . Here I spent a few painful days, nes unable to visit or be visited. 1797.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 371 N.Y] Asbury at Mr, Sherwood’s, On Monday I came to Shotwell’s, very unwell, and the next day to Kingsbridge. Here I was compelled by affliction to spend two weeks. I then rode to New Rochelle, and lodged at Mr. Sherwood’s. Find- ing myself swelling in the face, bowels, and feet, I applied leaves of burdock, and then a plaster of mus- tard, which drew a desperate blister. I had such awful sore feet I knew not but that they would mortify, and only after two weeks was I able to set them to the ground. I took cream of tartar and niter daily to cool and keep open the body. I also made use of the bark. “Awfully Dumb Sabbaths.” Thursday, September 14. The kindness of this Sher- wood family is great—my dear Mamma and Betsy Sherwood, and Jonathan and Bishop also. If I had not been at home here, what additional distress of mind would have attended me! My friends, also, were welcome to come and see me. Sabbath day, at the Widow Sherwood’s, I had the pleasure of hearing our Brother Matthias make a pointed, profitable, and powerful discourse. It is now eight weeks since I have preached—awfully dumb Sabbaths! I have been most severely tried from various quarters ; my fevers, my feet, and Satan, would set in with my gloomy and nervous affections. Sometimes subject to the greatest effeminacy ; to distress at the thought _of a useless, idle life. But what brought the heavy pang into my heart, and the big tear to roll that never rises without a cause, was the thought of leav- ing the connection without some proper men of their 372 Character and Career of [1797. own election to go in and out before them in my place, and to keep that order which I have been. seeking these many years to establish. Going Down into Egypt, Monday, 18. I felt strength of faith and body, as if I should be raised up again. I rode for recreation nine miles. O that my future life may be holiness to the Lord, prudent and exemplary to many! I wished to speak to a poor African whom I saw in the field as I went out, and as I came along on my re- turn he was at a stone wall within eight or nine feet of me. -Poor creature! he,seemed struck at my coun- sel, and gave me thanks. It was going down into the Egypt of South Carolina after those poor souls of Africans I have lost my health, if not my life, in the end. The will of the Lord be done! Asbury an American Bishop in Principle and Practice, Saturday, 23. I slept well last night, but waked with a slight fever. I received a letter from Dr. Coke. As I thought, so itis. He is gone from Ire- land to England, and will have work enough when he cometh there. The three grand divisions of that connection are alarming. It is a doubt if the Doctor cometh to America until spring, if at all until the General Conference. I am more than ever convinced of the propriety of the attempts I have made to bring forward Episcopal men. First, from the uncertain state of my health. Secondly, from a regard to the union and good order of the American body and the state of the European connection. I am sensibly as- sured the Americans ought to act as if they expected 1797.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 373 to lose me every day, and had no dependence upon Doctor Coke, taking prudent care not to place them- selves at all under the controlling influence of British Methodists. Honorable Mention of Elijah Crawford. Monday, 25. The day was clear and very warm. I rode up to the Plains, and stopped at Elijah Craw- ford’s. God hath honored this house. Two young men are gone into the ministry out of it. I have rid- den nearly twenty miles, and had it not been for the heat I should have done well. N.J.1 Asbury Sick, but Traveling and Visiting Families. Tuesday, October 3. We rode thirty miles to Joseph Hutchinson’s. I lament most of all that I have not lived in a constant state of prayer. I have had most deep and sore temptations of many kinds, such as I could have hardly thought of in health. I must be tried so as by fire. By reason of the fever in Phila- delphia our conference is moved to Duck Creek, in the State of Delaware. Wednesday, 4. After the storm was over we moved on as far as Crosswick’s, and lodged at Father Lov- ell’s. I was weak in body, but comfortable in mind. I visited three families, called at Hancock’s and saw my old friend of twenty-six years’ membership. I came on to Burlington. Serious times still in Phila- delphia. Del] Great Times at Duck Oreek, Monday, 9. We came thirty-eight miles to Duck Creek. Tuesday, 10. We began conference. I appointed 374 Character and Career of [1797. the president elders to take my seat, and I sat alone because the hand of the Lord was upon me. I was resolved to put out my strength to the last in preaching. My first subject was Isaiah i, 26-28, my second was on Luke xvii, 12, my third 2 Cor. xiii, 11. Great times. Preaching almost night and day. Some souls converted, and Christians were like a flame of fire. Eleven persons were set apart for elders’ and three for deacons’ orders. Md] Baltimore Oonference—All the Preachers Satisfied. Friday, 20. After all the alarm we came to Balti- more. A blessed rain settled the amazing dust and purified the air. Saturday, 21. I opened conference, and gave up the presidency to the presiding elders. Returned unwell. Very uncomfortable easterly winds and rainy weather. I mentioned in my speech to the conference the weak- ness of the episcopacy. Friday, 27. The conference rose. There was great peace, and all the preachers but myself satisfied with their stations. Asbury Opens the New Church—(Light-street,) Sunday, 29. I opened the new church in Light- street with reading 2 Chron. vii, 12; Psalm cxxxii; Haggai xi; Mark xi. The elders read and prayed. My subject was Eph. ii, 19-22, and’ at Old Town I preached on 2 Sam. xvi, 17. I had to preach the funeral sermon of Father Gatch on 1 Thess. iv, 13, 14. I observed the pleasing, cheering, and charming man- ner in which the apostle described the death of the righteous. Sleep—sleep in Jesus! a rest from labor, 1797.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 375 sorrow, affliction, and pain. Happy opening visions of God! Secondly, The hope the pious who are alive have for their pious dead who have had experi- ence and long continuance in religion, and a comfort- able dying in the Lord. Those who have no hope for themselves nor their dead, how awful their sor- row! I feel myself very weak. I dined at Mr. Rogers’s. Va.) Advised by the Conference to Rest, Friday, November 24. I visited my old friends and wrote to Alexander Mather. My route, which I only guessed at, is now fixed by Norfolk, Portsmouth, Newbern, Kingston, Georgetown, and Charleston, between five and six hundred miles in little more than a month. Sick or well, living or dead, my ap- pointments go on. ‘Saturday, 25. The conference began their sitting at Lane’s chapel. About sixty preachers were pres- ent. Nine or ten had located and four or five were added. Sabbath day, two hours were spent in speak ing of the circuits and for souls. Wednesday, 29. At noon the conference rose ; the business was conducted with dispatch and in much peace. I desired the advice of the conference con- cerning my health. The answer was, that I should rest until the session of the conference to be held in April in Virginia. Asbury Declines to Rebaptize, Thursday, December 14. My mind is grieved with the o/d sore in Virginia, but I must bear it patiently. One of our sisters asked me if we would not rebaptize persons that desired it. This put me to thinking 376 Character and Career of [1798. and revolving the subject in my mind. I considered that there was neither precept nor example in holy writ to justify our rebaptizing one who had been baptized in the name and form which Christ com- manded in Matt. xxvili, 19. . Book List for 1798, Monday, Fanuary 8, 1798. I wrote a long letter to John Dickins upon the manner of expediting his books to the distant parts, namely, the Journals, Ser- mons, Saints’ Rests, Patterns, Hymn Books, and that the Magazine should be our grand circulating me- dium. Only let us have more American Lives and Letters. Asbury Never Idle. Saturday, 20. Very unwell, Iam strangely brought down. Lord, let me suffer with patience: thy will be done! I could not do any thing at my books, but, that I might not be wholly idle, I wound cotton brooches among the children. Sunday, 21. I sat at home reading a little. M/on- day,1 am better. My fever is greatly broken. I can only write and meditate about an hour ina day. I must have some exercise, if it is only women’s work. Importance of Asbury’s Journal, Tuesday, February 6. My fever was very light last night. I received a most loving letter from the Charleston Conference. There is great peace and good prospects there. I hope to be able to move next week. I have well considered my journal: it is inelegant, yet it conveys much information of the 1 7098.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 377 state of religion and country. It is well suited to common readers ; the wise need it not. J make no doubt the Methodists are, and will be, a numerous and wealthy people, and their preachers who follow us will not know our struggles but by comparing the present improved state of the country with what it was in our days, as exhibited in my journal and other records of that day. Local Preachers—Their Relation to Slavery. Sunday, March 18. 1 have visited four families in Brunswick and three in Dinwiddie counties. On Saturday I had a close conversation with some of our local ministry. We had great union. Sunday, 25. Since the last sacred day I have visited seven families. A friend of mine was inquisitive of my trade and apprenticeship, as Mr. Glendenning had reported. As he asked me so plainly, I told him that I counted it no reproach to have been taught to get my own living. My health is somewhat better. I am yet unable to read or write largely. I can pray and praise the Lord a little. I assisted Philip Sands to draw up an agreement for our officiary to sign against slavery. Thus we may know the real senti- ments of our local preachers. Some of our local preachers complain that they have not a seat in the general annual conference. We answer, if they will do the duty of a member of the yearly conference they may have the seat and privilege of the traveling line. The local preachers can receive fifty or a hundred dollars per year for marriages, but we travelers, if we receive a few dollars for marriages, must return them at the conference, or be called refractory or a 378 Character and Career of [1798. disobedient. Let us not have the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ with respect of persons in ministers any more than in members, in local preachers any more than traveling ones. Md] Half-yearly Conference at Baltimore. Monday, April 23. We reached Turner’s, and made a rapid ride to the city of Baltimore. I visited until the Sabéath, April 29. They would publish for me at Old Town meeting-house. I made an attempt on Psalm cxxxii, 9: “Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness, and let thy saints shout for joy.” I went to the Point and heard a sermon on “ Speak evil of no man.” I gave a short exhortation, and came home much more comfortable than I expected. Our beautiful house is not yet ready. I fear, I trem- ble in imagination, lest it should have more temporal than spiritual glory. Wednesday, May 2. Our conference began. It was half-yearly, to bring on an equality by the change from fall to spring. We had to correct the many of- fenses given at many conferences to one particular man. I pleased myself with the idea that I was out of the quarrel. But no; I was deeper in than ever, and never was wounded in sodeepamanner. It was as much as I could bear. I cannot stand such strokes. Pa,] Conference in Philadelphia—Trouble with City Societies. Saturday, Fune 9. Our conference began on Tyes- day, and we were closely confined until this day. . Sabbath, 10. I preached on Matt. xxiv, 45-47. We had close work, but good tempers abounded, and just 1798.] Bishop Asbury [llustrated. 379 measures were pursued. I made an attempt to ride to Germantown, but returned. And it was well I did, for I had no sooner discharged the fragments of the conference business, and the stationing of the preach- ers, than the affairs of the society came in sight re- specting the city. I have my difficulties with the government of the preachers, but I have some trouble with the city societies—they wish to have the con- nection drafted, and some of the most acceptable preachers to serve them. I made all haste to leave the city, but not until I had met the trustees of the Church, NO] News of the Death of Asbury’s Father. Wednesday, 13. We came to Hutchinson’s, and on Thursday to Brunswick, where I bore my feeble tes- timony, and drew up a subscription for the purchase of a house for divine worship. On Friday we came to Elizabethtown, and on Saturday, 16th, to New York. Here I received the serious confirmation of the death of my father, aged eighty-four or eighty- five. N.Y. The Parting Scene Twenty-seven. Years Ago. Sunday, 17. | preached in the new church on Eccles. i, 1. At the old church in John-street my text was 1 Pet. iv, 10: “As good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” I now feel myself an orphan with re- spect to my father. Wounded memory recalls to mind what took place when I parted with him nearly twenty-seven years next September—from a man that seldom, if ever, 1 saw weep; but when I came to America, overwhelmed with tears, with grief, he cried out, “I shall never see him again!” Thus by proph- a 380 Character and Career of [1798. ecy or by providence he hath spoken what is fulfilled, For about thirty-nine years my father hath had the Gospel preached in his house. The particulars of his death are not yet come to hand. Children Dying—Rain Needed. Sunday, Fuly t. At the old church I preached from Phil. iii, 18-20. At the north church, in the after- noon, on I Cor.ix, 2. I was much héated, and rather hurried in preaching. The weather is excessively warm. The children are dying, and probably so will the parents unless God send rain. I live wholly upon vegetables, and wear flannel. Conn] How Asbury was First Called Bishop. Thursday, 19. At four o’clock Brother Lee gave a warm, encouraging sermon from 1 Cor. xv, 58. At the new meeting-house, (properly West Haddam,) where the Methodists are upon free principles, I added a few words, and then began our march to New London. We crossed Connecticut River at Chap- man’s ferry. We came on without touching the ground sometimes, as the carriage would frequently jump from rock to rock. After riding about thirty- two miles we reached New London at eight o’clock. James O'Kelly hath told a tale of me which I think it my duty to tell better. He writes: “Francis ordered the preachers to entitle him bishop in direct- ing their letters.” The secret and truth of the mat- ter was this. The preachers having had great diff- culties about the appellation of the Rev. or Mr., that is, to calla man by one of the divine appellations, supposing Jy. to be an abbreviation of Master, (‘call 1798.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated, 381 no man master upon earth,”) it was talked over in the yearly conference, for then we had no general conference established. ‘So we concluded it would be by far the best to give each man his official title, as deacon, elder, and bishop. To this the majority agreed. James O'Kelly giveth all the good, the bad, and middling of all the order of our Church to me. What can be the cause of all this ill-treatment which I receive from him? Was it because I did not, I could not, settle him for life in the south district of Virginia? He was in this district for ten years, part of the time in the very best circuits in the district, and then in the district as presiding elder. BI] No Adequate Pay But Souls, Friday, August 3. Preached at Bristol; my sub- ject, Luke xviii, 7. It was to me a serious, comfort- able time. What but the mighty power of God and the unceasing cries of his people can help us here? Saturday, 4. We came through Warren, Swansey, Somerset, Dighton, and Taunton, thirty-two miles. The day was excessively warm; and O! rocks, hills, and stones! I was greatly outdone. No price can pay—there is no purchase for this day’s hire but souls. We frequently spend a dollar per day to feed ourselves and horses. I never received, as I recol- lect, any personal beneficence—no not a farthing—in New England, and perhaps never shall, unless I should be totally out of cash. Mass.] Reflections on Pestilence, Tuesday, 7. I rode twenty-two miles through heat and hunger to Boston. Here I spent one night very unwell in body, and with pains and pleasures of mind 382 Character and Career of [1798; upon account of the preachers and people, who are ever in my thoughts. Wednesday, 8. 1 was advised to retire a few days to Waltham. There is affliction in Boston—the malignant fever. But who can tell the sick that are in the second or third house from his own ina town or’ city where it is needful to observe secrecy lest people should be frightened away from their homes, or the country people from bringing food? Oa social fam- ily, a comfortable table, pure air, and good water are blessings at Waltham! Whitefield’s Tomb, Monday, 13. We began our march to Lynn, in weakness of body and distress of mind. I gave a dis- course, late in the evening, on Heb. iv, 9, and that night I slept but little. On Zwesday we began our journey for the province of Maine. We passed through Danvers, Salem, Beverly, and thence to Ham- ilton, where we were kindly entertained by some aged people. Dined, and hasted along through Ipswich, and thence to Newburyport. Here I passed in sight of the old prophet, dear Whitefield’s tomb, under the Presbyterian meeting-house. We crossed the Mer- rimac River and bridge, and came in late to Mr. Mer- rill’s, where we were kindly entertained. N. Hil Portsmouth a Well-fortified Town, Wednesday, 15. We entered properly into New Hampshire. We passed Hampton Falls, where the people and priests were about installing a minister into the deceased Dr. Langdon’s congregation. We had a dripping morning. We set out, however, and 1798.] Bishop Asbury IMlustrated. 383 rode about twenty miles to Portsmouth. There is a fever somewhat malignant and mortal here. This is a well-fortified town against the Methodists. Mr. Hutchinson and daughter received us with great Chris- tian politeness. Being exceedingly outdone with heat and labor, I was easily persuaded to tarry until morning. We crossed Piscataqua River, at the town of Portsmouth, ina flat-bottomed boat. I am so weak that the smallest shock shakesme. We came through Old York, Father Moodie’s parish, of whom many tales are told. One is worth telling to posterity: it is that the only salary he received was the prayers of his people. We came on to Wells, and were kindly entertained at Mr. Maxwell’s. I was restless through the night, and sleepy and sick through the day, yet we rode forty miles to Major Illsley’s, near Portland. Me] The First Conference ever Held in Maine. Saturday, 25. We had to beat through the woods between Winthrop and Redfield, which are as bad as the Alleghany mountain and the Shades of Death. We have now laid by our carriage and saddle, to wait until Wednesday next for conference ; the first of the kind ever held in these parts, and it will probably draw the people from far and near. Wednesday, 29. Tenof us satinconference. Great was our union and freedom of speech with each other. N. Hi] Place of Mz. Whitefield’s Last Sermon, Tuesday, September 4. I passed Hampton and Hamp- ton Falls. At the latter Mr. Whitefield preached his last sermon, and probably caught the cause of his 384 Character and Career of [1798. death. I came over Piscataqua Bridge, a most ad- mirable piece of architecture; it is double, and the toll-gate and tavern stand upon the island. We dined at Greenland, and had great attention paid us. The fever is breaking out again in Portsmouth, and it is awful in Philadelphia; it seemeth as if the Lord would humble or destroy that city, by stroke after stroke, until they acknowledge God. Very serious appearances of this fever are now in New York. Mass,] Conference at Granville, Tuesday, 18. We came up to Granville, sixteen miles. It is well that I had help over the rocks and mountains. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, We sat in con- ference. About fifty preachers of different descrip- tions were present. Ten were admitted on probation. We had many weighty and deliberate conversations on interesting subjects, in much plainness and mod- eration. Six of us lodged among Deacon Loyd’s kind Congregational people. Conn.] Asbury Compares his Travels to a Flight, Saturday, 22. We began our flight to the White Plains, across the hills and along most dreadful roads for a carriage. We came to Canaan, about thirty-six miles, and lodged by the Falls of the Housatonic River. Its source is in some ponds and springs north and “south-west of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and running through the heart of Connecticut, emp- ties into Long Island Sound at Stratford. It is the second in magnitude to that which gives a name to the State. 1708.] Bishop Asbury [llustrated. 385 N.Y.) Awful Times in P” New York. Monday, 24. We came through Duchess County, near the line of the two States, and down the waters of Croton River. We lodged at Webb’s, near New Salem. We reached the Plains in about thirty-six miles, and came in about sundown. Most awful times in Philadelphia and New York—citizens flying before the fever as if it were the sword! I now wait the providence of God to know which way to go. N. IJ] Death of John Dickins, Wednesday, October 3. Called upon James Sterling. This morning the certainty of the death of John Dickins was made known to me. He was in person and affection another Thomas White to me for years past. I feared death would divide us soon. I can- not write his biography here. We came to German- town, and Thursday, twenty-five miles to Daniel Mere- dith’s, where we tarried for a night. Next day we reached Thomson’s Mill, upon Great Elk. Within a mile of this place, while going over a desperate piece of road, my carriage turned bottom upward; I was under and thrown down a descent of five or six feet. I thought at first I was unhurt, but upon examina- tion I found my ancle was skinned and a rib bone bruised. O the heat, the fall, the toil, the hunger of the day! Ma. His Gharacter, Tuesday, 9. We came to Baltimore. Here they have little to boast of but health and trade. The out- ward building of a society house is going on. I had John Dickins’s son with me. We sketched out a 25 386 Character and Career of [1798. few traits of his father’s life. For piety, probity, profitable preaching, holy living, Christian education of his children, secret, closet prayer, I doubt whether his superior is to be found either in Europe or America. Va.) Mortality Among the Preachers, Friday, 19. We came through the dust, thirty-five miles, to Richmond. Here I heard of the death of John Norman Jones, who departed in joy and peace in Charleston ; this is the second preacher we have lost in about one year in that city. Likewise of Hickson and Brush in New York, M’Gee and Dick- ins in Philadelphia, and Francis Spry in Baltimore. M’Gee, William Dougharty, J. Brush, Stephen Davis, John Ragen, James King, and John Dickins died of the malignant fever. Asbury Hard at Work Again, Saturday, 20. I rested in Richmond. I here must record my thanks to my ancient and firm friend, Philip Rogers, for the loan of a horse when mine was fully worn down, and unable to stand my long and rapid rides. Sabbath, 21. I preached in the court-house, at the east end of the city, on 1 John i, 6, 7, and in the afternoon on Romans x, 13-16. On Monday, 22, I preached at Manchester on Heb. viii, 10, 11, and on Tuesday rode to Petersburg by three ‘o'clock, and preached on Heb. iii, 16. I spent the evening with and slept at Joseph Harding’s ; it was a renewal of our former friendship. I spent Wednesday at Wood Tucker's in as sweet affection as in ancient times. I exhorted his children to come to Christ. 1798. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated, 387 Thursday, 25. In company with my never-failing friend, (as far as man can be so,) Richard Whatcoat, -I came to Roper’s. My horse was taken sick, which detained mea night. On Friday, at Henry Reese’s, my subject was Matt. vi, 16. I had the pleasure of seeing seven preachers present. On Saturday, 27, we had what was much wanted—rain. N. 01 “Tt Will Make Death Welcome.” Friday, November 16. We rode to Mr. Bell’s, on Deep River, thence thirty miles to Wood’s, upon River. This day was very warm, and we had exceedingly uncomfortable roads. Going at this rate is very trying; but it will make death welcome, and eternal rest desirable. Saturday and Sunday, at quar- terly meeting, my subject was Acts iii, 26. We rode down twelve miles to D. West’s, and were benighted, which ill suited me. As we had to travel an unknown road to Henry Ledbetter’s I wished to continue on our journey and not stop at Hancock; but the people thought and said otherwise, so I stopped, and Brother Lee preached, after which I gave a discourse on Acts ii, 39, and came off in haste. D. West escorted me down to the ferry, where we called in vain for the flat. D. West went over, and it was with difficulty that he persuaded the ferryman to come with the boat and take me. It being dark, and the wind blowing very strong and cold, we had hard work in crossing. I told the company so in the morning, but stay I must and preach, or be ac- counted proud. At Henry Ledbetter’s I preached: on Heb. x, 23, 24, and at John Randell’s on 2 Cor: vi, 1. Brother Jackson had secured for me riding and preaching enough as far as Camden. 388 Character and Career of [1798. 8.6] A Ovoling Breeze from the North. Friday, 30. We have ridden since Brother Jackson hath had the command of us nearly one hundred and fifty miles, fromi Montgomery, in North Carolina, to Camden, in South Carolina. If I attempt my appointments that Brother Lee has gone~upon I must ride one hundred and fifty miles next week to Washington, in Georgia. The people are remark- ably kind in this country. I preached in Camden on 1 Kings viii, 35, 36. Here we have a beautiful meeting-house. It was a time of very severe drought, but I hope this place will yet be visited in mercy. Monday we rode to Brother James Rembart’s, and on Tuesday I preached there on Heb. vi, 18. Here we seated ourselves for writing until Saturday, 10. On Sabbath day my subject was Acts iv, 20. Monday we rode to Brother Bradford’s, and on Tuesday to Jack Creek. The changes of weather and lodging affect me much. I called and preached at Robert Bowman’s. On friday we came to Monk’s Corner, and on Saturday to Charleston. I received a cooling breeze in a letter from.the North. For the first time I opened my mouth upon Psalm lxvi, 13, 14. We have peace and good prospects in Charleston; very large ‘congregations attend the ministration of the word, Brother Harper opened his mission upon “Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee.” In the evening I spoke upon our Lord’s lamentation over Jerusalem. On Christmas day 1 preached from Luke ii, 14, and at the new church on Haggai ii, 7. 1799. ] e _ Bishop Asbury llustrated. 389 Great Harmony and Good Humor in Conference, Fanuary 1,1799. Our yearly conference assembled at Charleston. We kept our seats for four days. Thirty preachers present. We had great harmony and good humor. I gavea short discourse, addressed to the conference, from Heb. xiii, 17. I ordained three elders and seven deacons. The generosity of the people in Charleston was great. After keeping our ministers and their horses, they gave us nearly one hundred dollars for the benefit of those preachers who are in want. N, 0.) A Visit to the Sea, Thursday, February 9. 1 preached at the meeting- house from Luke iv, 18, 19, and came the same evening to Father William Gause’s, where I preached on Friday, 10, upon Rom. v, 1-5. We had a living season here. I paid a visit to the sea, and saw the breakers—tremendous sight and sound! but how curious to see the sea-gull take the clams out of the sand and bear them up into the air, drop them down to break them, and then eat the flesh! This I saw demonstrated ; and if they fail once in breaking the shell they will take it up again, bear it higher, and cast it down upon a hard spot of ground until they effect their purpose. We are now in Bladen circuit, Brunswick county, North Carolina. I have traveled nearly four hun- dred miles in the Southern States, and spent three months therein. Newbern Originally Settled by Germans, Thursday, 21. We came to Newbern, originally settled by Germans, and called after old Berne in _ 390 Character and Career of [1799. Switzerland. For sixteen miles of this road we had heavy rain ; but I was well cased up, notwithstanding which I took cold. We have traveled from Charles- ton three hundred and thirty miles in this our retro- grade journey, which we have made longer by fre- quently turning out of our way. : Moving Rapidly Through the Oounties, Thursday, March 14. At Nixonton I declined preaching, but made an exhortation after Brother Lee had given them a long sermon. It is probably eight years since I came through this circuit, which caused this people to exert themselves in coming out, so that we had a very large congregation. We have ridden since we have come across Roan- oke one hundred and forty-three miles to John Rus- sell’s. We have moved rapidly through Gates, Chowan, Perquimons, and Pasquotank counties ; as we pass we have lovely levels, fine white cedar on the rivers, creeks, and swamps, for between six or seven hundred miles; from the low lands in Georgia to Blackwater in Virginia it is fine lumber land, but unhealthy in some places. Va.) Asbury Raising Blood—Unable to Preach. Monday, April 8. We rode thirty miles to Jones’s chapel. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, confer- ence sat in great peace and love. Friday, 12. We rode to Father Nathaniel Lee’s, and on Saturday, 13, to Frederick Bonner’s, where I rested —a solemn Sabbath. Monday, 15. By ten o’clock we came to Peters- burg, and then rode on and crossed James River 1799. | Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 391 at Woodson’s ferry. We lodged at Keeree: s, having ridden thirty-two miles. Tuesday, 16. We came to Philip Davis’ s, twenty miles, near Putney, New Kent. I feel low in body, but serene in soul. The brethren in Virginia, in conference, gave it me in charge not to preach until the Baltimore conference. I was willing to obey, feeling myself utterly unable. The houses that we preach and lodge in this severe weather are very open. My breast is inflamed and I have a discharge of blood. Journeying Toward Baltimore. : Thursday, 25. The general fast day. I attended at Fairfax chapel; Philip Bruce gave a discourse upon these words of our Lord: “ And then shall they fast in those days.” As I was unable to preach, I gave an exhortation from the subject. I find that very small rest, when joined with comfortable accommo- dation, gives me great strength of body; by this means I might be restored, but I must keep moving. I was caught in aheavy thunder-storm, from which I took cold and had a high fever and headache. I rested on friday at William Watters’s. Saturday,, rode to Alexandria. Monday and Tuesday, rode to Baltimore. Ma.) A Home Offered Asbury. Wednesday, May 1. We opened our conference, which sat four days. We had preaching morning andevening. I gave a short exhortation before the sacrament. Monday, 6.-We rode out to Greenwood, Mr. Rog- er’s country-seat, who told me that when I was past labor there was his house as my own. 392 Character and Career of [1799. A Legacy from a Living Friend. Tuesday, 21. We came to Anamessex. My horse began to sweat, swell, and tremble, and died upon the road. Brother Levan Moore was with me; we put his horse in the sulky, and both of us rode to Samuel Smith’s. Wednesday, 22. I borrowed a horse of Samuel Smith, crossed Pocomoke, and rode to Littleton Long's, where I gave an exhortation to a few people. It was a very extraordinary legacy of a living friend that put forty-five dollars into my hands; had I not bought a coat I might have had fifty dollars in my pocket ; it would have been a wonder for me to have as much money by me; but one hundred or more might be needful to purchase another horse. Del.] Asbury Advised to Suspend Preaching. Sabbath Day, Fune 2, After meeting I rode to Duck Creek Cross Roads, and called at Doctor Cook’s to see Thomas White’s children. Doctor Anderson, Doctor Ridgely, and Doctor Neadham considered my case: they advised a total suspension from preach- ing, fearing a consumption or a dropsy in the breast. Monday, 3. I ordained one person at the Cross Roads, and another at Dickinson’s meeting-house. I dined with Mr. Moore near the Appoquimamink bridge, and then rode on to Wilmington; we have made forty miles this day. What with labor and fevers my rest is greatly interrupted. Pa,] Ezekiel Cooper Appointed Book Agent. Thursday, 6. We held our conference in Philadel- phia. I retired each night to the Eagleworks, upon 1799.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 393 Schuylkill, at Henry Foxall’s solitary, social retreat. The conference was large and the business very important. Ezekiel Cooper was confirmed in his appointment by me as our Agent in the Book Concern. NU] Asbury Sweeps Through New Jersey. Wednesday, 12.: After the rising of the conference I rode to Burlington ; on Thursday, 13, to Milford ; on Friday, to Mr. Drake’s, near Amboy; and on Saturday, to New York. N. Y.] Conference for New York and the New England States, Wednesday, 19. We opened our conference for New York and all the New England States. The conference was crowded with work; conse- quently I had but little rest, and what added to my pain was Brother Bostick’s lying sick in the next room. Heat and haste! Sunday, 23. We had a charitable day at all the houses and collected’ nearly three hundred dollars ; but the deficiencies of the preachers were almost one thousand dollars. I attempted to preach a little on Phil. iv, 19, and gave an exhortation at the Bowery church. I met the society at the old church at night. The excessive heat made us wish and haste to leave town. Thinks of Resigning the General Superintendency. Monday, Fuly 1. I rested. My health is some- what better. I must confess I never felt so great a resolution to resign the general superintendency as I do now; and if matters do not work more to my 394. Character and Career of [1799. mind, it is highly probable I shall. My prayers and counsel will be turned this way until next General Conference. A Group of Honored Names. Tuesday, 2. I visited Mr. Sands’s family, and on Wednesday breakfasted with Mrs. Montgomery-at her beautiful retreat. Dined at Mrs. Livingston’s, on the manor, an aged, respectable mother of many chil- dren. The house, the garden, the river view, all might afford much painting for the pen of a Hervey. Brother Garrettson and his agreeable wife attended us. In Orange County. Thursday, 18, We rode over hills and rocks, through heat and with hunger, twenty-eight miles, without stopping until we came to Leizer’s, near the Jersey line, Orange county. We have traveled and toiled nearly four hundred miles through this State. Weary as I was, I must needs ride five miles further to Nicholas Simonson’s, where I was comfortably en- tertained. NI] In Pain and Heat, Hungry and Sick, Friday, 19. We came on to Sussex court-house ; dined, and pushed on to Father Freeman’s. No ap- pointments. Saturday, 20. I rode in great pain and heat, hun- gry and sick, twenty-five miles to Mr. M’Collock’s, How welcome a good house, kind friends, and a cold day! What is the cause of my affliction? Is it the water, or the weather, or my bilious habit? I am at a loss to know. 1799.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 395 Pa,] “A Balm for Every Sore,” Wednesday, 24. We rose at three o'clock in the morning and began our journey at five, over ridges and rocks, twenty-eight miles to Pottsgrove. We did not eat until we came to Coventry. Thirty-six miles is the amount of this day’s journey. O heat, drought, and dust! Thursday, 25. We had a most dreadful time over the mountains to the Forest chapel. Here we found the people much éngaged in religion ; this was a balm for every sore. We dined at Kerbury’s, and lodged at Abraham Lewis’s. s Venerable Names, Sabbath Day, 28. There was preaching in Thomas Ware's orchard, in Strasburg ;' we had the respect- able of the town, and a large assembly. This place contains, I judge, between sixty and seventy dwell- ing houses. Monday, 29. I visited Jacob Boehm’s. God hath begun to bless the children of this family. The parents have followed us nearly the space of twenty years. Tuesday, 30. We had a serious earthquake at five o'clock. The earth is growing old; it groans and trembles, which is the necessary consequence of “palsied eld.” I visited John Miller's; thence we rode six miles to Martin Boehm’s. Wednesday, 31. We had a comfortable meeting at Boehm’s church. Here lieth the dust of William Jessup and Michael R. Wilson. I feebly attempted a discourse upon Heb. vi, 12. In the evening we rode to Abraham Cagy’s, near the mouth of Pagan Creek. 396 Character and Career of [1799. Revival State of the Districts, Tuesday, August 6. It may suffice to say my mind hath been kept in great peace; but I have been greatly afflicted and dejected with pain and labor. We.have visited six districts since the sitting of the Baltimore conference, and in four out of six there is a happy revival of religion—on the Eastern Shore, in Jersey, Albany, and Pennsylvania—and we hear a rumor of a revival in the northern district of Virginia. Va,] A Trip through Nine Oounties, Monday, September 2, At Beaver Creek meeting- house we had a lively time. I have traveled, since I came into Virginia, through Loudon, Berkeley, Fred- erick, Shenandoah, Culpepper, Madison, Orange, Louisa, and Hanover counties. Wednesday, 4. Wecame to Richmond _ Since Fri- day week we have traveled two hundred miles; to which we may add the labor of our meetings—in com- mon three hours long, and sometimes longer. James O'Kelly's Plan of Union. James O’Kelly hath sent out another pamphlet, and propounded terms of union himself for the Presby- terians, Baptists, and Methodists. The Presbyterians must give up their confession of faith. The Baptists, _.if they open a more charitable door, adult dipping. The Methodists must give up the episcopacy and form of discipline, renounce the articles of their religion and the doctrine of the Trinity. I ask in turn, What will James give up? His Unitarian errors? Did he think the Protestant Episcopalians 1799. | Bishop Asbury Miustrated. 307 beneath his notice? I am now more fully satisfied than ever that his book is not worthy of an answer. “Weary World! when Will it End?” Wednesday, 11. 1 put a blister upon my breast. Brother Whatcoat preached at Charity chapel, where we administered the sacrament. We went home with John Hobson, and were treated with every mark of kindness we could desire. On Friday I preached at Smith’s church, dined at Robert Smith’s, and then rode on, in a very warm and dry day, twenty-six miles to Daniel Guerrant’s, and came in a little after eight o’clock in the evening. I have stretched along through Chesterfield, Powhatan, Cumberland, Buck- ingham, into Prince Edward county, and this while enduring a raw and running blister upon my breast, excessive heat, and with very little rest by night or by day. I would not live always. Weary world! when will it end? N. 0] Asbury’s American Birthday, Saturday, October 19. We rode through a damp and, in the end, rainy day twenty miles to George Gordon’s, near Wilkes’s court-house. We crossed and recrossed the Yadkin River. Sunday, 20. This is my American birthday. I have now passed twenty-eight years upon this conti- nent. Do I wish to live them over again? By no means. I doubt if I could mend it in my weakness and old age. I could not come up to what I have done; I should be dispirited at what would be pre- sented before me. 398 Character and Career of [1799. Crossing Rivers. Tuesday, 22. We had a serious, laborious ride of thirty miles to William White’s; Esquire, upon Johns River, Burke county. In this route we had to cross the Yadkin ten times; Elk and Buffalo each twice. Twenty miles of the path were good, ten miles uneven, with short hills, stumps, sideling banks, and deep ruts. I have renewed my acquaintance with these rivers. They afford valuable levels, with rising hills and high mountains on ‘each side. The prospect is elegantly variegated. Here are grand heights, and there Indian corn adorns the vales. The water flows admirably clear, murmuring through the rocks, and in the rich lands, gently gliding, deep and silent, between its verdant banks. And to all this may be added pure air. Asbury's Burden. Saturday, 26. I stayed at the house to read, write, and plan a little. I tremble and faint under my bur- den—having to ride about six thousand miles an- nually, to preach from three to five hundred sermons a year, to write and read so many letters, and read many more—all this and more, besides the stationing of three hundred preachers, reading many hundred pages, and spending many hours in conversation by day and by night with preachers and people of various characters, among whom are many distressing cases, 8&. CG] Ecclesiastical Revenue, Saturday and Sunday, November 9, 10. Quarterly meeting at Bramblet’s. I made a discourse upon 1799.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 399 Titus ii, 3. We had a good season. I only gave an exhortation on the Sabdath, We are now at the Widow Bramblet’s, ten miles from the Widow Frank’s. Benjamin Blanton came up with us sick ; his fa- mous horse died of the staggers. He reported two hundred and sixty dollars, and he had received from the connection in four years two hundred and fifty dol- lars. If we do not benefit the people we have but little of their money. Such is the ecclesiastical rev- enue of all our order. Monday, 11. We rode, sick, weary, and hungry, through a most barren country. Jesse Lee stopped to preach at Colonel Wolfe’s. I-rode on to the Tum- bling Shoals Ford upon Reedy River, thence on to William Powell’s, upon the banks of Fair Seleuda. I came in as usual, sick indeed, after riding thirty miles —jolting over roots, stumps, holes, and gullies. Ga] The Bishop Turns Nurse, Tuesday, 26. We came six miles to Cornelius M’Carty’s. Here we had to drop anchor again. Brother Blanton could go no further this day, and as there were three of us in company, and one who was well able to do the work, I felt it my duty to do as I would be done by, and have been done by, that is, ¢o stay and take cave of the sick man. Wednesday, 27. After Brother Blanton had been very ill, and in bed most of his time, I housed him in my carriage and we proceeded down the Oconee, twelve miles, to Burrel Pope’s, after a heavy siege through the woods, from one plantation to another, on Brother Blanton’s stiff-jointed horse, that I would 400 Character and Career of [1799. only ride to save souls, or the health of a brother. Our accommodations compensated for all. I admire the soft soil of Georgia, and it is pleasant to see the people plowing on the last of November, as if it were the month of April. The weather was very cold on Thursday and Friday. Saturday I rode seven miles up to Hudson’s Ford, at the mouth of Trail Creek, to have a sight of Oconee River. Jesse Lee visited the forks of the river, and formed a circuit for one preacher. The land upon the river is good. I returned to Henry Pope’s. A Gloss Upon Joshua xiv, 8. Saturday and Sabbath Day, December 7, 8. We held our quarterly meeting at Mark’s meeting-house. I had dreaded this appointment. I had some pain and some pleasure. The state of religion is low here. Hope Hull preached on Saturday upon Jer. x, 8. We had some signs, to show that life had not entirely departed, in the love-feast and sacrament. Benjamin Blanton preached, Sabéath day, from Isa. xxviii, 8, and I gave a gloss upon Joshua xiv, 8, “ Nevertheless, my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt; but I wholly followed the Lord my God.” In the introduction peculiar attention was paid to the dealings of God with Israel from the be- ginning to the end; the influence pious characters had in the case before us, two prevailing against ten; that the well-being of future generations required that a decided tone to the morals, manners, and religious opinions should be given by the first settlers of the country. The weight of the discourse was opened in two divisions: First, What God has done for many 1799.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 4ol Christians ; Secondly, Their unfaithfulness and com- plaints, (like the Israelites,) and their bad influence upon the camp of Israel, as at the present day. An Intestine War. Tuesday, 17. Rode ten miles to James Allen’s, and behold, neither the man nor his wife was at home. The day was far spent, and it was raining, so we stopped. Wednesday, 18. Before we could get ready to move it began to rain powerfully. We came down the Augusta road, gouged up by wagons in a most dread- ful manner, in consequence of which we were five hours in going twelve miles to Thomas Haine’s, upon Uchee. I had great zztestine war, having eat but little; but here we have all things comfortable. I doubt whether we shall be able to cross Savannah River in five days from this time, the former freshet being increased by latter rains. 8. 0] “Conference in Charleston. Wednesday, Fanuary 1, 1800. We began our con- ference in Charleston, twenty-three members present. I had select meetings with the preachers each even- ing, who gave an account of the dealings of God with their own souls, and of the circuits they supplied the past year. Death of Washington—Matchless Man. Saturday, 4. Slow moved the northern post on the eve of New Year’s day, and brought the heart-dis- tressing information of the death of Washington, who departed this life December 14, 1799. Washington, the calm, intrepid chief, the disinter- 26 Character and Career of [ 1800. , first father, and temporal savior of his der Divine protection and direction. A : oud sat upon the faces of the citizens of Charleston ; the pulpits clothed in black—the bells muffled—the paraded soldiery—a public oration de- creed to be delivered on friday, 14¢h of this month— a marble statue to be placed in some proper situation —these were the expressions of sorrow, and these the marks of respect paid by his feeling fellow-citizens to the memory of this great man. I am disposed to lose sight -of all but Washington—matchless man! At all times he acknowledged the providence of God, and never was he ashamed of his Redeemer. We believe he died not fearing death. In his will he ordered the manumission of his slaves—a true son of liberty in all points.- Asbury Remains in Charleston Awhile. Monday, 6. The main body of the preachers left the city: I desired Jesse Lee, as my assistant, to take my horse and his own and visit, between this and the 7th of February, Coosawattee, Savannah, and Saint Mary’s, (a ride of about four hundred miles,) and to take John Garven to his station. The time has been when this journey would have been my delight, but now I must lounge in Charleston. At Work With his Pen No journal until Fvzday, 24. This week I em- ployed in answering my correspondents in the Dis- trict of Maine, States of Massachusetts, New York, Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Thursday night departed this life Edward Rutledge, Governor of 1800. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 403 South Carolina. He was one of the tried patriots of 1775 and 1776, The Africans gave him a good character for his humanity. On Saturday, 25, his dust is to be committed to dust. “I have said ye are gods ; but ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.” Leaves Charleston. Friday, February 7. Jesse Lee and George Dough- arty came to town. The former hath been a route of about six hundred miles, and my poor gray hath suffered for it. Sunday, 9. I gave my last charge at Cumberland- street church from Rom. xii, 14-18. Monday, 10. I left the city of Charleston ; the day was cold and the roads bad. We came through Broughton Swamp. In the evening my carriage got set fast; the second draught the hook upon the swingle-tree gave way, and I had to take to the mud to fix the traces. At half past eight o'clock we came to Monk’s Corner. N. GJ At Camden, Saturday, 15. We came to Camden. The weather is still cold. We stopped to feed at Navy’s. We have ridden, since Monday last, one hundred and thirty miles, and my horse would not have been so outdone in two hundred or three hundred miles upon good roads. My soul hath been kept in patience and much prayer; my body is in great weakness, under- going disagreeable changes with the weather and my constitutional maladies. Sunday, 16. At Camden I Bleached upon I Gok 404 Character and Career of [1800. vi, 19, 20. We administered the Lord’s Supper. The day was cold for this climate and but few people attended. Asbury “Revived” at Sight of the Lawyers. Wednesday, 26. I had to pass over heavy hills, rocks, and small runs, and through thick clay. We were concluding when in Charleston and after we set out, by the excessive cold, that there was snow not far distant. When we came into North Carolina we found that upon Pedee, and Yadkin and Deep Rivers the snow had fallen fifteen and eighteen inches deep, and continued nearly a month upon the ground, and had swelled the rivers and spoiled the public roads. We lodged at Mr. Bell’s, having rid- den only fifty miles in two days. We left two ap- pointments on the west side of Uwany ; so much for that siege. My horse had hard work, my carriage was very loose in the joints by constant and long play, and myself much tired, but I revived when I saw the lawyers going to the Western courts. I thought, if they toiled and suffered for justice and silver how ought I to labor for truth, and gold that *perisheth not, and thousands of people, and hundreds of preachers. Preaches at the State House at Raleigh. Thursday, March 6. We came to Raleigh, the seat of government. I preached in the State House. Notwithstanding this day was very cold and snowy we had many people to hear. I baptized a child, and came that evening to Thomas Proctor’. Friday, 7. We came to the Union church. Many 1800. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 405 attended, but the excessive cold penetrated my whole system. We lodged at John Whitefield’s. Saturday, 8. I rode twelve miles through the snow to Edmund Taylor’s, senior. This week, from M/on- day to Saturday at noon, I have ridden one hundred and ten miles. My mind is kept in great serenity. I have spoken every day but this. Va] “Hail, Ancient Virginia, Once More!” Thursday, 13. We crossed Roanoke at Taylor’s Ferry ; the river was very full. Hail, ancient Vir- ginia, once more! In little more than four weeks we have ridden nearly two hundred miles in South, and three hundred in North Carolina. We came to Howell Taylor's. N. Snethen preached Father Young’s funeral sermon on Isaiah lvii, 1. I could only exhort. We rode home with S. Holmes, fif- teen miles, and it was well we did. “He might as well have asked me for Peru,” Saturday, 15, was astormy day. One of my friends wanted to borrow or beg 450 of me. He might as well have asked me for Peru. I showed him all the money I had in the world—about twelve dollars, and gave him five. Strange, that neither my friends nor my enemies will believe that I neither have nor seek bags of money. Well, they shall believe by demon- stration what I have ever been striving to prove, that I shall die a poor man. At Salem we had a good Sabbath. My subject was Rom. xii, 19-21. Our meeting held nearly three hours. The Effigy of Washington, Tuesday, April 15. We rode back to York. I saw the grave where was buried the effigy of General 406 Character and Career of [1800. Washington, at the probable place where Lord Corn- wallis delivered up his sword to him. We lodged at Brother John Stubb’s, in Gloucester. Five Hundred Miles in Nineteen Counties. Saturday, 19. We rode fourteen miles to S. Coles’s, I judge I have traveled little short of five hundred miles this route over Virginia, having been in nine- teen counties. Md] Eleven Hundred Miles, Monday, 28. I visited and prepared for the arrange- ment of the preachers at the annual conference for another year. The great accounts of the work of God in various parts are as cordials to my soul. I am persuaded that upon an exact measurement I have traveled eleven hundred miles from the 1oth of February to the 27th of April. My horse is poor, and my carriage is greatly racked. General Conference at Baltimore—Whatcoat Elected Bishop. Monday, May 5. We came to Baltimore, and 7zes- day, 6, we opened our General Conference, which held until Zywesday, 20. We had much talk, but little work. Two days were spent in considering about Doctor Coke’s return to Europe, part of two days on Richard Whatcoat for a bishop, and one day in raising the salary of the itinerant preachers from sixty-four to eighty dollars per year. We had one hundred and sixteen members present. It was still desired that I should continue in my station. On the 182% of May, 1800, Elder Whatcoat was ordained to the office of a bishop, after having been elected by a majority of four votes more than Jesse Lee. The unc- 1800. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 407 tion that attended the word was great—more than one hundred souls at different times and places professed conversion during the sitting of conference. I was weary, but sat very close in conference. My health is better than when we began. Del.] Oonference at Duck Oreeck—One Hundred Conversions, Saturday, 31. I preached at the Forest chapel on Habakkuk iii, 2, and rode to Dover that evening. Sunday, Fune i. This was a day-to be remembered. We began our love-feast at half past eight. Meeting was continued (except one hour’s intermission) until four o’clock, and some people never left the house until nearly midnight. Many souls professed to find the Lord. In the evening I rode to Duck Creek. Monday, 2, We had sixty-six preachers, all con- nected with the business of the conference. We sat closely six hours each day, until Friday, 6, when about nine o’clock the conference rose. One hour was spent in public each day, but the people would not leave the house night or day; in short, such a time hath been seldom known. The probability is that above one hundred souls were converted to God. The stationing of the preachers was a subject that took my attention. It was with the greatest difficulty that I could unbend my mind from this one hour, by day or night, until I readthe plan. I felt myself bound in spirit, and perhaps conscience also, to push on to hold the next Saddath in Philadelphia. Bishop Whatcoat and myself hasted to Wilmington on Fri- day, and on Saturday we dined with Mary Withy, now raised above her doubts and,rejoicing in God. Through her instrumentality a small society is raised 408 Character and Career of [ 1800. in Chester, and she hath fed the Lord’s prophets twenty-eight or twenty-nine years. We came on to Schuylkill, and thence to Philadelphia. Pal A Year of Pentecost, Sunday, 8. I preached morning and evening at Fourth-street. I preached at the African church on 2 Pet. ili, 17, 18, and at St. George’s on 1 Pet. i, 5-7. I spoke only once at the conference, on Psa. xxix, 9: “And in his temple doth every one speak of his glory” —truly fulfilled at that time and place. Surely we may say our Pentecost is fully come this year, when we recollect what God hath wrought in Edisto in South, and Guilford in North Carolina; in Franklin, Amelia, and Gloucester, in Virginia; in Baltimore and Cecil, in Maryland; in Dover, Duck Creek, and Milford, in Delaware. My health is restored, to the astonish- ment of myself and friends. Monday and Tuesday in Philadelphia. NIJ Two Bishops, and Almost a Third, Wednesday, 11. We rode to Burlington through ex- cessive heat and dust, in company with Richard Whatcoat and Jesse Lee. The latter wished to preach in the evening and go on in the morning. The Baptist minister had appointed a lecture, and in- vited Brother Lee to take his place. He accepted, and preached an appropriate sermon on Acts x, 25. N.Y.] Knotty Subjects Talked Over in Plainness, Harmony, and Love. Wednesday, 18. We rode in haste to New York, and on Thursday, 19, we opened our conference ; 1800.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 409 about forty preachers present. We had some knotty subjects to talk over, which we did in great peace, plainness, and love. Friday and Saturday we were closely confined to business. Saddath, my subject at the old church was Romans xii, 19-21. In my - introduction I observed that the text was quoted from Lev. xix, 18, and Prov. xxv, 21, 22, that it might discover to us what veneration the New Testament writers had for the Old, and what was required in a believer under that dispensation. Vengeance is not in our province. We cannot in civil, much less in sacred, causes be our own judges or jurors; if we must feed an enemy, and not only forgive him an in- jury but do him a favor, surely then we ought to love a friend, a Christian, and more abundantly a minister. of Christ. This day we made a general collection for the support of the traveling ministry. “A Mighty Stir in the Bowery Church.” Tuesday, 24. I have now a little rest. We have had a mighty stir in the Bowery church for two nights past until after midnight ; perhaps twenty souls have found the Lord. Bishop Whatcoat preached the ordination sermon in the afternoon at the Bowery church. I have now a little time to unbend my mind from the stations; but still my work is not done. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, I employed myself in reading, writing, and visiting. Betsey Sherwood Gone to Glory. Saturday, 28. We left the city, and rode twenty- six miles through heat, and plagued by the flies, to my old home at the Widow Sherwood’s. But dear 410 Character and Career of [1800. Betsy Sherwood, my nurse, is gone, I trust, to glory. Conn.] Connecticut One Continuity of Landscape. Tuesday, Fuly t. In consequence of our circum- locutory motions we have ridden about fifty-five miles since we left the city of New York. We came to Stamford, where Brother Whatcoat gave a sermon on “The faith and choice of Moses.” I had only time to speak a few words on Luke xix, 44. Wednesday, 2. We rode on to Norwalk, stopped an hour at Brother Day’s, and thence rode on to Fair- field. It was a cool day. We had an elegant view— the. fields in full dress, laden with plenty; a distant view of Long Island and the Sound; the spires of steeples seen from distant hills. This country is one continuity of landscape. My mind is comforted and drawn out in prayer. We had not time to feed nor rest. It was with some exertion we came in time to Joseph Hall’s, at Pequonnock. After we got.a little refreshment and rest I gave them a short discourse on Luke x, 2. Strength and time failed me, and I could not finish and apply as I wished. Methodism Getting Foothold in New Haven, Friday, 4. The weather is damp and very warm. We came on to New Haven, where they were cele- brating the Fourth of July. I fear some of them have broken good order, and become zxdependent of strict sobriety. Bishop Whatcoat preached in the Sandemanian meeting-house purchased by the Methodists. 18c0. } Bishop Asbury Illustrated. All Asbury's Estimate of New England Women, Friday, 11. We came to Preston, and were kindly entertained at Isaac Herrick’s. It was the very height of rye harvest, yet many came together. I was greatly led out on the great salvation. I was refreshed in soul and body, and rode on in the even- ing to Nathan Herrick’s. The simplicity and fru- gality of New England is desirable—you see the woman a mother, mistress, maid, and wife, and in all these characters a conversable woman ; she seeth to her own house, parlor, kitchen, and dairy; here are no noisy negroes running and lounging. If you wish breakfast at six or seven o'clock ‘there is no setting the table an hour before the provision can be produced. R11 General Lippelt's Chapel. Saturday, 12. We took our departure for Rhode Island through Plainfield. The weather is still ex- cessively warm ; the roads sandy, stony, and rocky, notwithstanding the turnpike. We passed Sterling, the last town in Connecticut. We wandered a mile or two out of our way, and had to pay for it by going a cross path, We made it twenty-six miles to Gen- eral Lippelt’s. The General hath built a neat chapel for the use of the Methodist Episcopal Church near his house. Sunday, 13. Richard Whatcoat preached in the morning. In the afternoon my subject was Exodus xx, 24: “In all places where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee.” It was a feeling time. Although I was very unwell all the day, I could not stand back from duty. 412 Character and Career of [1800. Mass, ] A New Church in Boston. Tuesday, 15. We came through Wrentham, Wal- pole, Dedham, and Roxborough to Boston. It was a damp day, with an easterly wind, unfriendly to my breast. As they were about finishing our church we could not preach in it. The new State House here is, perhaps, one of the most simply elegant in the United States. We made our home at Edward Haynes’s, late from England, where we had most agreeable accommodations after our toil. Heavy Work Accomplished. Thursday, 17. We have dry weather. We came through much dust to Lynn. Friday, 18. We sat in conference. There were twenty-one members present; we had great peace and union. Saturday, 19. The conference rose after voting the session of the next yearly conference to be held at Lynn. And now the toil of six conferences in seven months, and the riding of thirteen hundred miles, is over. I found some difficulty in stationing the mar- ried preachers. Asbury and Whatcoat Preach in the New Tabernacle. Monday, 21. We came to Boston and preached in the Tabernacle, now nearly finished, on Heh iii, 12-14. We were generously entertained at Ed- ward Haynes’s. Tuesday, 22. Bishop Whatcoat preached in Boston from Psalm cxvi, 7. Wednesday, we came thirteen miles to Waltham, where we had a meeting. The subject was Rev. xxi, 6, 7. 1800.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 413 Conn.] The Parsonage in Spencertown. Wednesday, 30. We rode to Mr. Spencer’s, in Hart- ford. My mind is in peace, but I have uncomfort- able feelings in my body. Here I met Brothers Bostwick and Borrough. We have a house built in Spencertown for the Lord, and now they are building one for the Lord’s servants—for the married preach- ers to live in who are sent to the circuit. Madam Livingston, friday, August 1. Freeborn Garrettson came up with us; he attended the funeral of the venerable Moth- er Livingston, who was suddenly and safely called home, aged seventy-eight, removed by a paralytic stroke, and probably it was apoplectic also. Perhaps it was about thirty-four years ago that this godly woman was awakened under the first sermon the Rev. Dr. Sadly preached in the Reformed Low Dutch Church in New York, as she told me; nor she alone, but six or eight other respectable women. Madam Living- ston was one that gave invitation to the Methodist preachers to come to Rhinebeck, and received them into her house; and would have given them more countenance had she been under no other influence than that of the Spirit of God and her own feelings. I visited her one year before her death, and spent a night at her mansion ; she was sensible, conversable, and hospitable. Goshen, Cornwall, Sharon. Monday, 4. We came on and stopped at Goshen, at Captain Wright’s. The people flocked together at a short warning, and I gave a discourse on Isa. xxxv, 3-6; after which we dined, and came on across the 414 Character and Caveer of [ 1800. hills and over dreadful rocky roads to Cornwall, where Brother Whatcoat preached in the meeting- house on “ We know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.” Tuesday, 5. We had another tolerable siege over the Housatonic River and hills to Sharon.. Here Brother Whatcoat preached on “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation, and to reserve the unjust to the day of judgment to be pun- ished.” I gave an exhortation, and then we came rapidly, fifteen miles, to C. Levie’s, in the Nine Partners. N.Y] Freeborn Garrettson's Residence, Wednesday, 6. We came to Row’s. Bishop What- coat preached on 1 John iv, 17. I gave an exhorta- tion. We came on to Freeborn Garrettson’s new design, upon the Rhinebeck Flats. He hath a beau- tiful land and water prospect, and a good, simply elegant, useful house for God, his people, and the family. We have ridden between eighty and ninety miles since last Sabbath ; not less than five hundred and fifty since we departed from New York, and one third of the roads were rocky and very uneven. I read a book of about five hundred pages, the author of which is a curious writer. ‘ Friday and Saturday, 8,9. We regaled ourselves and horses upon the pleasant banks of the Hudson, where the passing and repassing of boats and small craft, perhaps fifty in a day, is a pleasant sight. Two Bishops Dine on a Water-melon | Tuesday, 12. We came through Poughkeepsie. No place for Methodism. We stopped at Elijah Mor- 1800. ] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 4I5 gan’s; Brother Thacher was preaching when we came in. We have ridden twenty-five miles this day, and dined in the road upon a water-melon that Mrs. Tillotson was kind enough to give us as we came by her house. I was so unwell that I had but little appetite for any thing else. The Liewtenant-Governor and Lady, Wednesday, 18. We came on twenty-five miles to Cortlandt-town, where we saw the aged, venerable pair, the lieutenant-governor and his lady ; he is in his eightieth and she in her seventy-eighth year. J had a very rocky ride over the mountains of Peeks- kill. I have great and sore temptations at times, but God is with me. I trust through grace to over- come them all. We stopped at Warren’s; fed, talked, prayed, and refreshed ourselves a little. Thursday, 14. This day is very warm. I preached at Peekskill-town upon the great salvation. Brother Whatcoat preached at Croton. We lodged at Gen- eral Van Cortlandt’s. A Slight Accident, Saturday, 16. We pushed on with great courage toward New York, but when within six miles of the city my horse blundered twice, and then came down with great force and broke the shaft. I got out, and my horse recovered from his fall. A smith’s shop being at hand the shaft was mended in an hour, and we came to New York and found our service was wanting in the city, there being here only two preach- ers, and one of them disabled. 416 Character and Career of [ 1800. N. J Through New Jersey Again, Tuesday, 19. We came off at five o'clock, and reached New Brunswick by twelve o'clock, where we dined and rested, and then continued on to Joseph Hutchinson’s, at Milford, forty-six miles. We hada pleasant and cool ride for the season. Wednesday, 20. We came on to Hulet Hancock’s ; and on Zhursday reached Philadelphia. I preached at St. George’s, and Bishop Whatcoat at the African Church. Pa] Dutchmen Make Lively Methodists, Friday, 22. We rode to the Valley; it was warm enough. Bishop Whatcoat preached at Daniel Mere- dith’s. ~ Saturday, 23. We had a proper siege up to Saw- derstown and got in by four o'clock. I gave a dis- -- course on Heb. x, 38, 39. Sabbath Day, 24. Bishop Whatcoat preached at Martin Boehm’s church on Psalm lxxii, 16-20. We have now ridden, from Monday, one hundred and seventy miles. We lodged at Abraham Keaggay’s. Our Dutch Methodists are as kind and more lively than many of the American ones. Md.) Mr, and Mrs, Gough Not at Home, Wednesday, 27. 1 preached at the Forks meeting- house (fifteen miles on a carriage road) warm as it was. Brother Whatcoat gave us a sermon on Psalm cxvi, 7: “Return unto thy rest, O my soul.” I ex- horted very little. The heat continued. That even- ing we came with equal difficulties to Perra Hall ; but the greatest trouble of all was that the elders of 1800. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 417 the house were not at home; the walls, the rooms no longer vocal; all to me appeared hung in sack- cloth. I see not the pleasant countenances, nor hear the cheerful voices, of Mr. and Mrs. Gough! She is in ill-health, and writes: “I have left home, perhaps never to return.” This intelli- gence made me melancholy. Mrs. Gough hath been my faithful daughter; she never offended me at any time. Revival on the Western Shore of Maryland. Saturday, 30. We had a most severe ride, nearly twenty miles, to Daniel Elliott's. At St. James’s chapel God hath begun to pour out his Spirit, and almost generally through Montgomery and Frederick circuits. Wilson Lee is all upon the wing in the work: glory! glory! glory! I will not speak of numbers or particular cases without more accurate information, which in my haste I cannot now obtain ; but without doubt some hundreds in three months have been under awakenings and conversions upon the Western Shore, District of Maryland. Vad Good News from Virginia, Saturday, September 13. We rode to New London Academy, sixteen miles, now under the direction of Samuel K. Jennings, a local preacher of ours; the institution belongeth to the Presbyterians and Episco- palians. R. Whatcoat preached. I was deprived of my rest the last evening, and very unwell, yet I gave a short discourse in exhortation. We have been going at such an unreasonable rate that I have not had time to put pen to paper for a week together. : 27 418 Character and Career of [ 1800. Good news from the South District of Virginia ; Brother Jackson writes: “Two hundred souls have been converted this last quarter ; there is a revival in all the circuits but two, and great union among the preachers and people.” J am kept in patience, faith, and love. “Only Now and Then Sending Up a Message to Heaven.” Friday, 19. We began at six o'clock to bend for Holston. It was computed to be forty miles distant. We came in about the going down of the sun at Father Carlock’s, a German. For two days past we found we could not stop to dine; we rested only to feed our horses. After we cleared the mountains we came upon the perpetual hills. I judge we may charge for one hundred and thirty miles from Edward Mitchell’s, in Bottetourt, to Russel’s old place upon Holston. We took Saturday to refit and write. Brother Whatcoat attended the meeting. My mind hath been kept in peace. I had enough to do to drive. I could think but little—only now and then sending up a message to heaven, Ky.] Bethel and Cokesbury not Well Located, Friday, October 3. We came on to our Brother Howard’s. We crossed Kentucky River at the mouth of Hickman; it was so low that we forded it with ease. We have traveled in five days one hun- dred and forty-five miles. I have slept uncomfort- ably this week. Saturday, 4. 1 came to Bethel. Bishop Whatcoat and William M’Kendree preached. I was so dejected I could do little but weep. Sabbath day it rained 1800. } Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 419 and I kept at home. Here is Bethel: Cokesbury in miniature, eighty by thirty feet, three stories with a high roof and finished below. Now we want a fund and an income of three hundred per year to carry it on, without which it will be useless. But it is too distant from public places. Its being surrounded by the Kentucky River in part we now find to be no benefit. Thus all our excellences are turned into de- fects. Perhaps Brother Poythress and myself were as much overseen with this place as Dr. Coke was with the seat of Cokesbury. But all is right that works right, and all is wrong that works wrong, and we must be blamed by men of slender sense for con- sequences impossible to foresee—for other people’s misconduct. Sabbath day, Monday, and Tuesday, we were shut up in Bethel with the traveling and local ministry and the trustees that could be called to- gether. We ordained fourteen or fifteen local and traveling deacons. It was thought expedient to carry the first design of education into execution, and that we should employ a man of sterling qualifications, to be chosen by and under the direction of a select number of trustees and others, who should obligate themselves to see him paid, and take the profits, if any, arising from the establishment. Dr. Jennings was thought of, talked of, and written to. I visited John Lewis, who lately had his leg broken; I left him with good resolutions to take care of his soul. A Running Blister and a Long Ride. Friday, 10. We rode to Pleasant Run to John Springer’s. It was a very warm day for the season. I had a running blister at my side, yet I rode and 420 Character and Career of [ 1800. walked thirty-two miles. We refreshed ourselves at Crawford’s tavern upon the way. We have visited Knox, Madison, Mercer, and Washington counties in this State. It was strongly insisted upon by preachers and people that I should say something before I left Bethel—able or unable, willing or un- willing—accordingly, on Zuesday, in the academical hall, I gave a long temperate talk upon Hebrews x, 38, 39. Good Quarters, Fire, and Food, Wednesday, 15. We crossed Green River, the main branch of which riseth near the Crabb Orchard. We crossed at the mouth of Little Barren River. We then made a bold push for the Great Barren. Dining at Mr. Morrison’s, I could not eat wallet-provision, but happily for me I was provided with a little fresh mutton at the house, made warm in a small space. A little after dark we came to Mr. Hagin’s, upon Big Barren River. A good house, an excellent fire to dry our clothing, good meat and milk for supper, and the cleanest beds; all this we had. I have paid for this route. Tenn, ] A Trio of Good and Great Men. Sunday, 19. 1 rode to Nashville, long heard of but never seen by me until now. Some thought the congregation would be small, but I believed it would be large. Not less than one thousand people were in and out of the stone church, which if floored, ceiled, and glazed would be a grand house. We had three hours’ public exercises: Mr. M’Kendree upon “ The wages of sin is death ;” myself on Rom. x, 14, 15; Brother Whatcoat on “ When Christ, who is our life, 1800. } Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 421 shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” We returned the same evening, after dining with Mr. M’Kain. I had a feeling sight of my dear old friend Greenhill and his wife. Who would have thought we should ever meet in this distant land? I had not time, as formerly, to go to their house to eat and sleep. We had a night meeting at Mr. Dickinson’s. . Asbury Reaches his Thirtieth Year of Labor in America, Monday, 20. We came by Manslick to Drake’s Creek meeting-house at the close of a sacramental solemnity that had been held four days by Craghead, Hodge, Rankin, M’Gee, and Mr. Adair, Presbyte- rian officiating ministers; we came in, and Brother M’Kendree preached upon Jer. iv, 14; after him Brother Whatcoat upon “We know that we are of God.” I also spoke; my subject was the work of God.” Last Sabbath was my birthday. This will make the thirtieth year of my labors in America. It is supposed there are one thousand souls present, and double that number heard the word of life on Sunday. Christian Union and Primitive Simplicity. Tuesday, 21. Yesterday, and especially during the night, were witnessed scenes of deep interest. In the intervals between preaching the people refreshed themselves and horses, and returned upon the ground. The stand was in the open air, embosomed in a wood of lofty beech trees. The ministers of God, Methodists and Presbyterians, united their labors and mingled with the child-like simplicity of prim- itive times. Large fires blazing here and there dis- 422 Character and Career of [1800, pelled the darkness, and the shouts of the redeemed captives and the cries of precious souls struggling into life broke the silence of midnight. The weather was delightful: as if heaven smiled while mercy flowed in abundant streams of salvation to perishing sinners. We suppose there were at least thirty souls converted at this meeting. I rejoice that God is visiting the sons of the Puritans, who are can- did enough to acknowledge their obligations to the Methodists. The Wilderness as the Garden of God to Asbury. Thursday, 30. We rode slowly on to Starr’s, twenty-two miles, and had a heavy shower of rain on our way. From Monday morning to Thursday after- noon we have made one hundred and thirty miles. We have experienced no stoppage by water-courses, and have found the roads of the wilderness, their unevenness excepted, pretty good. And here let me record the gracious dealings of God to my soul in this journey. I have had uncommon peace of mind and spiritual consolations every day, notwithstanding the long rides I have endured and the frequent privations of good water and proper food to which I have been subjected. To me the wilderness and the solitary places were made as the garden of God, and as the presence-chambers of the King of kings and Lord of lords. Asbury’s First Visit to Knoxville, Saturday, November 1. Came twenty miles to Knoxville, of which I had often heard and which mine eyes now saw. We visited my old friend Greer. 1800. | Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 423 Sabbath Day, 2. I preached in the State House on Isa. lv, 6, 7. I was very unwell, but was enabled to bear the heavy cross of public speaking., We had about seven hundred people in and about the house. We came off in haste, intending to make twenty miles that evening ; but Francis Alexander Ramsay pursued us to the ferry, franked us over, and took us to his excellent mansion—a stone house. It may not be amiss to mention that our host has built his house, and also takes in his harvest, without the aid of whisky. We were kindly and comfortably entertained. “An Ugly Accident.” Thursday, ©. Crossed Nolachucky at Querton’s ferry and came to Major Cragg’s, eighteen miles. I next day pursued my journey and arrived at the Warm Springs, not, however, without an ugly acci- dent. After we had crossed the Small and Great Paint mountain, and had passed about thirty yards beyond the Paint Rock, my roan horse, led by Mr. O’Haven, reeled and fell over, taking the chaise over with him. I was called back, when I beheld the poor beast, and the carriage bottom up, lodged and wedged against a sapling, which alone prevented them both being precipitated into the river. After a pretty heavy lift all was righted again, and we were pleased to find there was little damage done. Our feelings were excited more for others than ourselves. Not far off we saw clothing spread out, part of the loading of household furniture of a wagon which had over- set and was thrown into the stream, and bed-clothes, bedding, etc., were so wet that the poor people found it necessary to dry them on the spot. We passed 424 Character and Career of [1800, the side fords of French Broad and came to Mr. Nelson’s. Our mountain march of twelve miles calmed us down for this day. My company was not agreeable here—there were too many subjects of the two great potentates of this western world—whisky and brandy. My mind was greatly distressed. N.C. Only Twenty Appointments in a Thousand Miles, friday, 14. We had no small labor in getting down Seleuda mountain. Arriving at Father Douthat’s, on the south branch of Seleuda, I had leisure to reflect upon our western visitation. On the 16th of Septem- ber we set out from Botetourt, in Virginia, and on the 14th of November we were in. North Carolina, at the foot of the grand mountain division of South Carolina. In this time I presume we have traveled one thousand miles; have had about twenty appointments, not many of which were large ; have lodged about twenty nights under strange roofs, or at houses of entertain- ment, and have expended about fifty dollars. Ga] Augusta—Prospects of Methodism. Saturday, 29. Came twelve miles through deep sands to Augusta. We have traveled nearly one hundred miles since last Sabbath day. My soul hath been kept in great peace, but I feel the effects of riding a stiff, aged, falling horse with a sore back, and my saddle is old and worn. We have a foundation and a frame prepared for erecting, in a day or two, a house for public worship, two stories high, sixty by forty feet; for this we are indebted to the favor of Heaven and the agency of Stith Mead; and what is better, here is a small society. 1800.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 425 Augusta is decidedly one of the most level and beautiful spots for a town I have-yet seen. It is of ample extent in its plan, well begun, and when their intentions shall be fulfilled of building a court-house, a college, episcopal churches for Methodists and others, it will do great credit to its founders and inhabitants. 8. 0] General Conference Address on Slavery. friday, December 19. It rained. After it had holden up, we rode thirty miles to Benjamin Hern- don’s, upon the waters of Enoree. Saturday and Sunday, 20, 21. Held quarterly meet- ing. Brother Whatcoat spoke from 1 Thess. iii, 8. A very profitable improvement. On Sabbath day my choice was Acts iii, 22,23. We continued about six hours at Bethel. I saw one of the members of the General Assembly of South Carolina, who informed me that our address from the General Con- ference had been read and reprobated, and further- more, that it had been the occasion of producing a law which prohibited a minister’s attempting to in- struct any number of blacks with the doors shut, and authorizing a peace-officer to break open the door in such cases and disperse or whip the offenders. But more of this law when I see it. Between Two Fires—“ Poor Bishop.” Tuesday, 30. Came to Camden. I have received several letters from the North: they bring small con- solation—“ While he was yet speaking there came also another”—murmurs—complaints of partiality ; and with this I may console myself in the midst of unremitted and hard traveling and labor. I was pre- 426 Character and Career of [1800. sented with a petition from about eighty male mem- bers of the society in the city of brotherly love, entreating me to do what I had no intention of doing ; that was, to remove Brother Everett from the city. How, indeed, was this tobe done? He and they had acquitted M. Manly of all the charges brought against him, and restored him to membership ; the presiding elder had also restored to office three or four elders who had been put out for murmurings and mischiefs, and had ejected the elder stationed in the city, and had filled his place by another ; and they had great congregations, great shoutings, and God was with them, and nearly one hundred had joined society. To all this what can we do but say, “ Well done, good and faithful servant” and servants! Poor bishop! No money for my expenses. I am afflicted—my life threatened on the one hand, my brethren discon- tented on the other. True, I received from them a petition dipped in oil and honey, and if I approve all will be well ; but if not, drawn swords may be feared. Conference at Camden, Thursday, Fanuary 1, 1801. We began our confer- ence with the new year. Sat from nine to twelve o’clock in the forenoon, and two hours in the after- noon ; the band-meeting was held between the hours of seven and eight. A clerk for the minutes was appointed, and another to keep the journal. We ad- mitted four probationers; re-admitted two deacons to their standing in the traveling connection who had left it to locate; located three, and re-stationed ~” Gains, Wiley, and West, who had all located them- selves in the course of the last year. We had great 1801.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 427 union. Our sitting continued five days, and we rested one Sabbath. We were richly accommodated at Smith’s and Carpenter's, and two other houses. We only failed forty-eight dollars in paying all the preachers their demands. Dining on the Sand Hills upon Bread and Bacon. Wednesday, 14. We left Hanging Rock and came to Little Lynch and Flat Creeks, crossing the great branch at M’Meenas’s Ford. This last is called a creek ; but it rises near the Waxaws, and flows about one hundred and fifty miles, mingling its waters with the Great Pedee below Port’s Ferry. We had an ex- cessively warm day for the season. The horses and their riders were both fatigued much in riding forty miles in ten hours. We dined, at the root of a pine, upon a morsel of bread and bacon, and then re- mounted and pushed on to Anson in North Carolina. We sheltered ourselves for the night at Thomas Shaw’s, upon Little Thompson’s Creek. “Murmurs of Partiality’—Asbury's Defense, Saturday, 24. We have ridden since the com- mencement of the year one hundred and eighty miles in the Carolinas. Monday, 26. I find reasons enough in my own mind to justify myself against the low murmurs of partiality in which some have indulged. We are impartial We know not Maryland or Delaware, after the flesh, more than Kentucky, Cumberland, Georgia, or the Carolinas. It is our duty to save the health of preachers where we can; to make partic- ular appointments for some important charges; and 428 Character and Career of [1801, it is our duty to embrace all parts of the continent and Union, after the example of primitive times and the first and faithful preachers in America. N. Snethen’s Answer to James O'Kelly, Thursday, February 5. I received the compilation of N. Snethen, intended as an answer to James O’Kelly. It is well done, except in a few cases. There was no sharpness at all upon my side with Doctor Coke at Charleston respecting the proposed general conference, which was afterward held, ‘(in 1792.) I was fully convinced that nothing e/se would finish the unhappy business with O’Kelly ; and that did finish it. “No More of Solomon than the Name,” Friday, 13. At Ebenezer. The house was unfin- ished, and the day windy and uncomfortable. Brother Whatcoat and myself held the people nearly three hours. My text was Gal. vi, 14-16. A Solomon Reeves Jet me know that he had seen the Address signed by me, and was quite confident there were no arguments to prove that slavery was repugnant to the spirit of the Gospel. What absurd- ities will not men defend! If the Gospel will tolerate slavery, what will it not authorize? I am strangely mistaken if this said Mr. Reeves has more grace than is necessary, or more of Solomon than the name. We lodged for the night at William Gore’s. N. OG] Wilmington—The Tabernacle Crowded, Wednesday, 25. We dined with General Smith— there was abundance and hospitality. We came into 1801.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 429 town. Jeremiah Norman gave us a sermon. Our tabernacle is crowded again. The minds of the people are strangely changed, and the indignation excited against us is overpast. The people see and confess that the slaves are made better by religion, and wonder to hear the poor Africans pray and exhort. Thursday, 26. I preached for the first time in our house, and for the second in Wilmington. My text was found in Acts xxvi, 17, 18. At eleven o'clock we were crowded, and I felt uncommon enlargement. One of the vespectables came in the name of some of the reputables to request that J would preach in the brick church. I was weak—had spoken long and loud, and was more than ordinarily unwell—but Brother Whatcoat was unwell and not able to go out. We had a large congregation ; I lectured upon Rom. x, 1-4. In the evening, numbers, both white and black, came again to the tabernacle. After John Norman had preached, I read and commented upon two letters respecting the work of God in Delaware and Cumberland, in the West. “An American-made Methodist.” Monday, March 9. We rode thirty-seven miles to Washington. In our way we crossed the Neuse, swift- ly and safely, at West’s Ferry. At twenty-one miles we stopped to feed—high price and poor fare. We have ridden six hundred and fifty miles toward the fourth thousand since the Carolina Conference. Here Ralph Potts, a Northumbrian, (Old England,) but American-made-Methodist, received us as the angels of God. 430 Character and Career of [1801. A “Flight Through Several Counties,” Monday, 23. We made twenty-two miles to Samuel Simmons’s. Our flight has carried us through Pas- quotank, Camden, and Currituck counties, in North Carolina, which we shall leave to-day. Ostervald’s Christian Theology. April 5. I recollect having read some years since Ostervald’s Christian Theology. Having a wish to transcribe a few sentiments in the work, I met with it, and extracted from chap. 2, page 317, what fol- lows: “ Yet it cannot be denied that in the primitive Church there was always a president who presided over others who were in a state of equality with himself. This is clearly proved from the catalogues of bishops to be found in Eusebius and others. In them we may see the names of the bishops belonging to the principal Churches, many of whom were or- dained while the apostles (but especially John) were still living.” So far Ostervald, who, I presume, was a Presbyterian. In Cave’s Lives of the Fathers, and in the writings of the ancients, it will appear that the Churches of Alexandria and elsewhere had large congregations, many elders ; that the apostles might appoint and ordain bishops. Mr. Ostervald, who, it appears, is a candid and well-informed man, has gone as far as might be expected for a Presbyterian. For myself, I see but a hair’s breadth difference between the sentiments of the respectable and learned author of Christian Theology and the practice of the Meth- odist Episcopal Church. There is not—nor indeed, in my mind, can there be—a perfect equality between a constant president and those over whom he always presides. 1801. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 431 Asbury Preaches the Funeral Sermon of Mr. Jarratt, Sabbath, 19. There had been put forth a printed appointment for me to preach the funeral sermon of the late Rev. Devereux Jarratt, who had lately re- turned to his rest. Mr. Devereux Jarratt was settled in Bath Parish, Dinwiddie county, Virginia, in the year 1763, and continued until February, 1801.- He was a faithful and successful preacher. He had witnessed four or five periodical revivals of religion in his parish. When he began his labors there was no other, that he knew of, evangelical minister in all the province! He traveled into several counties, and there were very few parish churches within fifty miles of his own in which he had not preached ; to which labors of love and zeal were added preaching the word of life on solitary plantations and in meeting-houses. He was the first who received our despised preachers ; when strangers and unfriended, he took them to his house and had societies formed in his parish. Some of his people became traveling preachers among us. I have already observed that the ministry of Mr. Jarratt was successful. I verily believe that hundreds were awakened by his labors. Ma] Conference at Pipe Creek. Thursday, 30. We arrived to dine at Alexander Warfield’s, on Sam’s Creek, and pushed on to Henry Willis’s, on Pipe Creek, where it had been our inten- tion to open conference. We had about forty members present, and sat on Friday, Saturday, and Monday. On Tuesday morning we rose. We had great peace, and good news from 432 Character and Career of [1801 several circuits—revivals of religion. I was greatly supported in mind and body. On Sadbdath day I preached from Matt. xxiii, 18-20. We had six elders present; to wit, William Watters, John Phillips, Solomon Harris, Joseph Stone, John Cullison, and Alexander M’Caine. There was preaching every day and every night. Our own people and our friends in the settlement were equally kind, and we had rich enter- tainment. The settlement of Pipe Creek is the richest in the State. Here Mr. Strawbridge formed the first society in Maryland—and America. “How Strange !—How Merciful!” Wednesday, May 13. I preached once more at Josias W. Dallam’s. -I could speak with more faith than usual upon Acts ii, 37, for behold, Henry Watters’s son, many years insensible to the things of God, was converted! When we parted with Godfrey he looked after us with wishful, willing eyes and heart. That the dear soul should sit nearly thirty years under the Gospel unconverted and almost un- concerned—how strange ! and should be at last visited and converted—how merciful ! “Pressing Out Life with Labor.” Tuesday, 19. We came off, cool and calm, to Easton Brother Whatcoat preached. I gave an exhortation. We take a county and a circuit in a day. I canonly say I am kept from murmuring and sinning ; but ah, it is like pressing out life with labor! Such extraor- dinary exertions call for great Divine support for soul and body. O how sweet will be eternal rest to labor- ing souls! 1801.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 433 Large Congregation in Dover. Monday, 25. Arrived in Dover we found the people collected at the meeting-house so numerous that they could not be well accommodated. We therefore ad- journed to the State House, where I spoke to them from Haggai ii, 5-9. Brother Whatcoat preached at the chapel, and I gave an exhortation ; and so ended the great meeting in Dover with us. Pa] Philadelphia Canterense: Ashes “in Patience and in ain, Saturday, 30. Most excessive heat, through which we rode to conference in Philadelphia. Sabbath, 31. I preached in Fourth-street on John iii, 19. I was verylame. On Monday, Tuesday, Wednes- day, Thursday and Friday, I attended the session of conference, but on Saturday I remained in my lodg- ings and ministered to my sore foot. Our conference was a gracious one. It appeared as if the preachers were unwilling to elevate their voices lest there should be an appearance of heat or anger; yet with the greatest plainness would they differ from each other, calmly and in love. Sabbath, Fune 7. | took up my cross, and stayed quietly in the house with a blister to my foot. We shall see if another operation will be necessary. Minutes and letters took up my attention. We elected and ordained eight deacons, and the same number of elders ; on account of my lameness it was done at my lodgings. We were well satisfied in the stationing of the preachers; we received one from Canada, and sent three thither. 28 oe 434 Character and Career of [180r. Wednesday, t0. Doctor Physick applied a caustic to my foot. I wrote to Dr. Coke. My mind is greatly sup- ported under my own troubles and the afflictions of the Church ; nevertheless, the Lord appears glorious upon our continent, and my soul exults in Zion’s prosperity. From the 7¢# to the 16¢% no regular journal. Our conference meets this day in New York, and here am I in Philadelphia, and here must I remain in patience and in pain. Del.] Goes Southward Again. Friday, Fuly 31. After a serious confinement in Philadelphia of two months of trouble and affliction I took my departure and rode to the Wheatsheaf, where we breakfasted, and thence proceeded to Wil- mington, Delaware. I stopped with Allen M’Lean. I found Mr. Worrel very ill, and addressed him seri- ously on the concerns of his soul, commending him to God in prayer. After supper we went to John Miller’s, in Newport. August 1. I called upon Mr. M’'Intyre. We talked, we prayed, and rejoiced in the work of God. I could not pass my old friend, Isaac Hearsey, without call- ing. We could with gratitude review the past, and dwell upon the present dealings of the Lord with us as a people, and say, What hath God wrought! Ma] Asbury Sick at Perry Hall. Monday, 3. I came on to Perry Hall. Here were things to arrest my attention—out of sixty or seventy servants, many shouting and praising God. My dear Mr. Gough was somewhat unwell, Mrs. Carroll 1801.] Bishop Asbury [Mlustrated. 435 seriously ill, and her mother absent in attendance on old Mrs. Carroll at the Mount. I continued at Perry Hall from August 3 to Satur- day,.15. An intermittent fever came upon me every morning, and it was with difficulty I could attend to the performance of family and closet duties. Gough Hollady professed to find the Lord, and one or two more of the family appear to be earnestly seeking him. Our family, when in the chapel, makes a respect- able congregation. Out-door Preaching, Sunday, 16. I spent this day in Baltimore. My _indisposition of body was amply compensated by the consolation I felt while holding forth upon Matt. v, 8: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” I had a desire to preach in the market-house upon Howard’s Hill. I spoke to hundreds, perhaps thou- sands, upon Luke xiv, 21: “Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.” I thought it my duty, and I felt it a delight, to sanc- tion what the preachers do in preaching abroad ; I wished to do it in Philadelphia, and had appointed it, but some of the brethren made strong objections and it was abandoned. Episcopal Plan. Friday, 28. At Frederickton I spoke on Matt. xi, 5,6. Here I met with Bishop Whatcoat and Sylves- ter Hutchinson, and we formed a plan for our future journeys and labors. They to visit Maryland by the 436 Character and Career of [180r. way of Baltimore and Annapolis, and thence on to Richmond and the towns on the route to Camden in South Carolina, and southward to Georgia ; I, in com- pany with Nicholas Snethen, to go out to the Western Conference in Nolachucky, then afterward cross over to the South. Va] Asbury and the Local Preachers, Sunday, September 20. We came over the mount- ain to Salisbury, and preached at the Widow Rus- sells. N. Snethen was greatly enlarged upon Luke xi, 3,4. I was so feeble I had but little to say upon “Behold, now is the day of salvation.” I was pleased to see our local brethren come forty and fifty miles to visit me. We met with joy, and parted in tears ! “Our Host Became Our Guide.” Saturday, 26, We wrought down Mockison to the Gap, where the accumulated waters of the stream have, at some time, apparently burst their way through Clinch Mountain. After recrossing the north branch of Holston we stopped at John Wad- ley’s and refreshed man and beast. Our host became our guide, and tripped over the hills with us in the rain, his mare barefoot, and himself without a saddle to ride on or a great-coat to shield him from the weather. At length we reached Charles Baker's, upon Main Holston, in safety. Teo] © “Why should It Not Always be Thus?” Wednesday, 30. I spoke on Heb. ii, 1, and hasted on to Ebenezer to attend the conference. Our breth- 1801.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 437 ren in Kentucky did not attend ; they pleaded the greatness of the work of God. . Taalye of us sat in conference three days, and we had not an unpleasant countenance, nor did we hear an angry word. And why should it not always be thus? Are we not the ministers of the meek and lowly, the humble and holy, Jesus? N. Snethen gave us two sermons. We ordained on Friday, Saturday, and Sabbath day, and upon each day I improved a little on the duties of ministers. On the Lord’s day we assembled in the woods, and made a large congregation. My subject was Isa. Ixii, 1. On Friday and Saturday evenings, and on Sabbath morning there was the noise of praise and shouting in the meeting-house. It is thought there are twenty-five souls who have found the Lord; they are chiefly the children of Methodists—the children of faith and of many prayers. “Tame Feet and Old Feeble Joints.” Tuesday, October 13. We came in haste up to Elder Davidson’s, refreshed man and beast, commended the family to God, and then struck into the mountain. We came down Seleuda River near Seleuda Mount- ain. It tried my lame feet and old, feeble joints. $0.1 “Cotton Sells High—More Gold than Grace,” Saturday, 24. We had to attend a meeting ap- pointed at Broad River circuit. N. Snethen spoke from 2 Tim. ii, 8. I only exhorted, and read a letter giving an account of the work of God in Kentucky. We have been working this week from Seleuda ‘to Reedy River. I cannot record great things upon 438 Character and Career of [1801. religion in this quarter, but cotton sells high. 1 fear there is more gold than grace—more of silver than of “that wisdom that cometh from above.” A Plan for Future Labors and Travels, Friday, 30. We came in haste to Daniel Baugh’s. Here we met Bishop Whatcoat and Sylvester Hutch- inson, who had come along rapidly. At the meeting- house, where we spent about three hours, we were joined by Stith Mead, John Garven, and Lewis My- crel. Now we formed a plan for future labors and travel. It was concluded that Bishop Whatcoat should go from the center, east to Savannah and St. Mary’s, while I go west, in Georgia, Ga,] Methodism Flourishing in Augusta, Saturday, 31. We came to Augusta. On the Saéd- bath day N. Sngthen preached, after which I gave a few thoughts upon “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people.” N. Snethen spoke again in the afternoon on “The choice of Moses.” Bishop Whatcoat held forth at night. We have a very large and most elegant house in this place, for which we are indebted chiefly to the generosity of the inhabitants. Our congregations are most respect- able and very attentive, but I heard of no conver- sions. The time for this is not yet come. Asbury an Englishman—Can’t Help It, Saturday, November 8. I suppose we have now traveled twelve hundred miles since leaving Philadel- phia. I often have it whispered in my ear what cer- tain folks are pleased to say of my being an English- 1801.] Bishop Asbury Ilustrated. 439 man. Howcan I help that? I am not ashamed of it. But I am seeking souls and Zion's glory. & Another Episcopal Plan, - Saturday, 14. We came to Park’s meeting-house. Brother Blanton spoke on John xii, 35 ; my subject was Heb. vi, 11, 12. We have traveled about one hundred miles since our entrance into Georgia, pass- ing through parts of Richmond, Columbia, Lincoln, Elbert, and Franklin counties. The evenings and mornings have been cold; the people, however, are extremely kind. I have experienced great sensible enjoyment of God—our cabins are courts when Jesus is there. In my ministry I have been greatly assisted ; but unless Iam more temperate in my talk, in tone and time, I shall not be able to manage more than every other day. In a serious conference with Bishop Whatcoat, N. Snethen, Lyle, Hutchinson, and myself, it plainly appeared that the best way in future would be to meet at the Virginia Conference, and thence continue together to the New York Conference, after which one might go to the East and the other to the West- ern Conference. The Bishop who went east would then visit the Eastern States and lake country, and thence onward to Pittsburg and the Virginia dis- tricts ; the Bishop who goeth west will visit over the Blue Ridge, Holston, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, South and North Carolina, to the conferences in the center of the work, where both will meet again. In this we all agreed. It was also determined that each Bishop should always have an elder as a traveling companion. 440 Character and Career of [1801. “Why Should a Living Man Complain?” Thursday, 19. We found at Tidwell’s a very open house in the woods. I spoke from Acts iii, 26. At Freeman’s, next day, we had another open house, lately put up, where Brother Blanton held forth upon “ The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint.” My subject was Isaiah xxxv, 3-6. We started, hun- gry and cold, crossing at Malone’s mill a branch of Oconee, and came to Henry Pope’s in Oglethorpe. We have ridden about eighty miles this week of short and cold days. Why should a living man com- plain? but to be three months together upon the frontiers, where, generally, you have but one room and fire-place, and half a dozen folks about you, strangers perhaps, and their family certainly, (and they are not usually small in these plentiful new coun- tries,) making a crowd—and this is not all ; for here you may meditate if you can, and here you must preach, read, write, pray, sing, talk, eat, drink, and sleep—or fly into the woods. Well! I have pains in my body, particularly my hip, which are very afflict- ive when I ride; but I cheer myself as well as I may with songs in the night. In this country are seen evident traces of a great population which has some time existed before the present discoverers and settlers of America. 8. 6.] Strong Faith for the Prosperity of Zion. Thursday, December 17. At Jacob Barr’s, upon Edisto, I spoke from 2 Tim. iv, 7,8. Few people. In Georgia “I groaned, being burdened ;” but my con- gregations were considerably larger, my rides shorter, 1801.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 441 and the people abundantly more feeling and fervent than they are here. I have ridden eighty sand-hill miles. The weather is very changeable; I feel my old age and infirmities ; my eyes and feet are feeble ; but, glory to God! I have strong faith for myself and for the prosperity of Zion. An Observation of John Wesley. Saturday, 26. We came to Westone’s meeting- house to hold our quarterly meeting; many people attended at noon and at night. I have made a proper visit through Edisto, which I had not before done. I find the truth of an observation made by dear John Wesley to Doctor Coke upon his going to Nova Scotia; the Doctor said he did not think highly of the place. “That is because you have never been there,” replied Wesley ; “ when you are there you will think and feel for the people.” Conference in Camden, friday, Fanuary 1, 1802. We opened conference. I gave a discourse upon Isa. lxvi, 1-3. We con- ducted 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 congrega- tions, to whom we preached at noon and at night each day. N. Snethen spoke on “ Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased,” and also on the Azdden leaven. Our finances were low. The married and single preachers were paid up, but there was no surplus for the children. On Tuesday, 5th, we concluded our labors in the greatest harmony. It 442 Character and Career of [ 1802. was thought best to divide South Carolina into two districts, one called Seleuda, the other Camden. They were placed under the president eldership of two natives of the State, James Jenkins and George Dougherty. Pains and Pleasures in a Small Compass. Saturday, 9. We reached Georgetown. T 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 Je- hovah. N. GJ] Asbury’s Expectation Realized. Saturday, 16. We attended a meeting at Charlotte- ville meeting-house, N.Snethen spoke upon “ Faith, hope, and charity;” I followed on “Let us come 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 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. “Farewell to that House Forever.” Sabbath, 24. N. Snethen spoke upon Rom. viii, 6, 7. I gave an exhortation upon John v, 39, 40. It was 1802.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 443 hot at all agreeable to me to see nearly a hun- dred slaves standing outside and peeping in at the door, while the house was half empty. They were not worthy to come in because they were black! Farewell, farewell to that house forever ! Encouraging Prospects at Newbern. Sabbath Day, 31. Cold and cloudy. I gave a ser- mon upon Rom. ii, 7, 8. N. Snethen spoke from Heb. xiii, 16, and in the evening on 1 John iv, Io, II. 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 en- couraged; our people are stirred up, and judges, counselors, doctors, and ministers attended our preaching and appeared to be pleased. - Va] Conference at Salem—Deficiency of Preachers, Sunday, February 28. At Salem. Monday, March 1. We began and held close con- ference four days, 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, Guildford, 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 a great strictness observed in the examina- 444 Character and Career of [1802. tion of the preachers’ characters. Some were re- proved before the conference for their lightness and other follies. John Lee’s Funeral Sermon, Thursday, 18. 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’s funeral sermon. My text was Philippians ii, 22:° “But ye know the proof of him, that as a son with the father hath he served with me in the Gospel.” Md Conference at Baltimore—Statistics, Sabbath, 28. I had uncomfortable feelings, oc- casioned by a cold I had taken. Upon my watch- tower in Light-street I stood and delivered a message on James v, 19, 20. I wrote and rested until Thurs- day, the first day of April, when our yearly conference commenced. We went on with our business smoothly and rapidly, and had preaching each noon and even- ing in every Methodist house for public worship in the city. Monday, April 5. 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 xiv, 23. On Monday evening the confer- ence rose. All the demands of the preachers -were answered. Money was advanced toward 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 confer- ence which is to meet in July next. Within the circling lines of this conference we report to this 1802.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 445 sitting an addition to the society of three thousand souls and upward, besides those who may have died within the last eleven months. Death of Asbury's Mother—Tribute to her Memory, ‘John Pawson’s letter, 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, While 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 an- cient 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. This afflictive providence graciously terminated in the mother’s con- version. 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 as- surance 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 446 Character and Career of [1802. 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 labor to sup- port the Gospel and to wash the saints’ feet. Asa friend she was generous, true, and constant. Eliza- beth 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. 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. Va] Eastern Shore of Virginia, friday, 23. Bishop Whatcoat preached at the meet- ing-house in Diamond Town, Eastern Shore, 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. Next day we had a heavy ride to Snow Hill. Our new meeting-house not being finished, I preached in the court-house to many serious people upon Phil. i, 6. After worship we rode on to Isaac Bowman’s, fifteen miles, and lodged at Dr. Wilson’s plantation, now in the possession of Mr, White. 1802. | Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 447 Ma] A Great Time at Bowen’s Chapel. 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 William Leicester's that evening. Del.] A Trip Through 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, near the head of Indian River, making little short of thirty miles for our day’s ride. On Tuesday, Brother Whatcoat went to Lewistown, while myself preached at Milford. Wednesday, 28. I preached at Dover on Ephes. v, I, 2; thence I hastened to Duck Creek Cross Roads, where I spoke in the evening. Pa.] Conference in Philadelphia—The Academy. - Saturday, May 1. Our conference opened on the first of May. We had an increase of probationers. In two sittings we did not get through the first ques- tion: 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 Roberts and John M’Claskey came forward and moved that the breth- 448. Character and Career of [1802. ren 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. NJ] A Sudden Choice of Subjects. Monday, 10. We came on to Clemmell, dined at Robert Newell’s, and attended our appointment at three o'clock. Brother Whatcoat made an improve- ment upon Isaiah xxv, 20, 21. My mind was in an unexpected manner led to John ii, 15. Tuesday, 11. We rode to Henry Frith’s and dined, after which we attended our appointment at Salem. My mind here’ was overruled on my subject; I made a sudden choice while I was singing a hymn of 1 Cor. vii, 29-31. We had many serious people at Salem: We returned to Henry Frith’s and lodged there. Pa] At Pittsgrove, Wednesday, 12. We had a blessed rain, but not - Pleasing to ride through to Humphrey’s meeting- house at Pittsgrove. 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. NJ] At “ Orosswicks.” Monday, 17. Through heavy, continued rain, we came on to Crosswicks. We dined with Mr. Lovell, and after drying our clothes, about two o’clock went to the meeting-house. Here we found a fire and a 1802. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 449 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! N. YJ On Staten Island, Saturday, 22. We came upon Staten Island at the old Blazing Star. I called at the mansion of Justice 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. NJ] “Wonders Will Never Cease,” Monday, 24. I came to Elizabetown. 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 Ephes. ii, 10. Wonders will never cease. Nothing would serve but I must marry Thomas Mor- rell to a young woman. 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 per- formed, solemnly, at the solemn hour of ten at night. N. Y.] Memorable Names in the Harly History of Methodism. Friday, 28. I spoke in John-street upon 1 Thess, ii, 4-9. 29 450 Character and Career of [1802. Sunday, 30. After Bishop Whatcoat had preached, I read letters respecting the great revival of religion westward and southward. The death of Sarah Hutch- inson gave occasion to my preaching her funeral ser- mon at the Bowery church in the afternoon. The deceased was the daughter of Frederick Devoe, 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, died very happy in God. Yearly Conference in John-street, Tuesday, Fune 1. We opened our yearly confer- ence in John-street meeting-house, and continued our labors in great peace and union. We have a large admission of preachers upon trial as travelers. At this conference there are twenty-two, and in six conferences sixty-three. Saturday, 5. We had a day of solemn fasting and prayer for the Church, the conference, the continent, and for the world, upon the eve of whichI preached from 2 Cor. ii, 14, 15, with great plainness, and so much fire as made my earthly tabernacle very restless through the night. John M’Claskey gave us the first sermon upon Joel il, 15-17. Sunday, 6. 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 col- 1802. ] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated.. 451 lection for the preachers gave occasion to a sermon, which I must needs preach ; it was done upon 1 Cor. xvi, 14. J 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 xi, 13, and so we closed our labors 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 ! Asbury Journeys Eastward. Monday, 7. We hada 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 con- ference that I should be at- that of Monmouth, I desired N. Snethen to go upon my appointments. Conn.] Students of “Yale” Under the Ministry of Saml, Merwin. Wednesday, 9. We were at James Banks’s, Byram River. Bishop Whatcoat preached ; I only exhorted, and read a letter. Next day I preached at the Old Well, at Absalom Day’s,near Norwalk, upon Acts iii, 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, among Congregational- ists, Episcopalians, and Methodists, it is who shall, Brother Whatcoat was very ill with a bilious fever. I was afraid of pushing him too swiftly. Friday, 11. With the kind family of Mr. Jocelin we 452 Character and Carcer of [1802. 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 im- pressions. 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. B12] Meeting at Cranston, Saturday, 19. To General Lippet’s, at Cranston, twenty-eight miles. Sunday, 20. I opened the meeting at half past ten o'clock ; then followed the ordjnation, then the sacra- ment, after which Brother Whatcoat preached upon Eph. iii, 8. My subject was 2 Cor. iii, 11, 12. Mass.] Asbury in Boston. Monday, 21. We dined at Mr. Turpin’s in Provi- dence, and came on to Joseph Guild’s in Attle- borough, making a journey of about twenty-six miles. Next day, after a heavy, hungry, weary, dusty ride, we reached Boston. I closed the labors 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. N. H.] Across the State. Monday, 28. We came away in haste to Green- land, breakfasted, resumed our journey, passing through Berwick, and brought up at Deacon Clarke’s, in Wells ; and thus one day’s ride of fifty-one miles brought us across the State of New Hampshire. 1802. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 453 Ma.) Oonference in an Upper Room. Wednesday, 30. We had a racking ride of about forty-five miles to Monmouth. Our breakfast we took at Gray, and dined with Mr. Bradbury at New Gloucester. Thursday, Fuly t. Our conference continued three days. We held it in the upper room of Sewell Pres- cott’s house. We had fifteen members and nine probationers. The married preachers who came de- ficient 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 far. 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. Sunday, 4. We concluded with a love-feast, sacra- ment, and the ordination of five elders, to wit : Com- fort Smith, Epaphras Kibby, 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 disci- pline, and the way to heaven by preaching the Gos- pel! Five sermons were preached through the day. N. wt] George Pickering’s Name Appears. Tuesday, 6. We passed through Scarborough, Saco, Kennebunk, Wells, Berwick, and Somersworth, which last is in New Hampshire; thence onward through Dover, Madbury, Lee, and Epping. Ps 454 Character and Caveer of [1802. Thursday, 8. We held a meeting at Captain Fogg’s, in Epping ; my subject was Titus ii, 2. George Pick- ering spoke in the evening from 1 Cor. xv, 34. After preaching we rode twelve miles to Hawke. On our route next day to Waltham we passed through Kings- ton, Plasto, Haverhill, Andover, Wilmington, Wo- burn, Lexington, and Lincoln, nearly completing another thousand miles. We shall have a great open- ing in New Hampshire, and a district formed there in a few years. Mass] The Law of Church Rates Opposed, Monday, 12. We came through Needham. George Pickering stopped to demand the Church rates taken from the Methodists, amounting to one hundred dol- lars or upward. This is to pay the Independent ministers, whose forefathers fled from Episcopal tyr- anny ; 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. Sterne’s, at Milford. Qonn.] Asbury’s Footsteps in Litchfield County. Saturday, 17, and Sunday, 18. We held quarterly meeting, Litchfield circuit. The Sabbath day congre- gation was small, owing to the rain after the great heat. I spoke from 2 Thess. iii, 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. Monday, 19. We came to Brother Church’s, near the Falls of Housatonic River. Our route led us 1802. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 13 A455 through Salisbury and Sharon, across the line into the State of New York. N.Y] At Travelers’ Rest—Billy Hibbard. Tuesday, 20. We rested at Travelers’ Rest, upon the solitary banks of Hudson, with my dear friends Freeborn Garrettson and his prudent, pious wife. We have heat, heat, great heat! . Wednesday, 21. I preached upon 2 Cor. iv, 7. It was an ordination sermon at the setting apart of Billy Hibbard to the office of an elder. It is exceed- ingly warm and the zenith of harvest, yet we had a congregation. Three Sermons in New York City. Sabbath, 25. In New York I preached at John- street on Rev. iii, 17-20; at three o'clock, at the Bowery church, on Isaiah lv, 6, 7; at the African church, at six o’clock in the evening, on 1 Thess. i, 5. It rained at times through the day, which prevented more from attending. It was a day of life to me. N.J.] A Brief Stop—“‘A Word or Two and Prayer.” Thursday, 29. I stopped at Burlington; had a word or two with my friends, and we commended each other to God in prayer. I came on in haste and sickening heat to Mr. Manly’s “ Travelers’ Rest,” arriving about twelve o'clock. The fever has re-ap- peared in Philadelphia. I hear great times have been known in Dover—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 Milford quarterly meeting. 456 * — Character and Career of [1802. Pa] Asbury’s First Sermon in the Academy at Philadelphia, On Sunday morning, according to appointment, I preached for the first time in the college church (or Academy.) My subject was Exod. xx, 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. - Md] Trials from Every Point of the Compass. Wednesday, August 4. I crossed the Susquehanna, dined with Mr. Smith, and reached Perry Hall in the evening. 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 been so kept in all my labors ; 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. A House of Worship at Last. Sabbath, 15. At Fredericktown I once more spoke; my subject was 1 Cor. i, 23, 24. Here then, at last, after more than thirty years’ labor, we have a house of worship and thirty souls or upward in fellowship. Va] Interview with Mr, O'Kelly, Friday, 20. We called at John Millburn’s. Next day, at Millburn’s meeting-house, I spoke upon Heb. x, 35, 36. We lodged at William Tyler's. On Suz- day, in the meeting-house at Winchester, at eleven o'clock, I preached from Titus ii, 13, 14. We had the sacrament. Many felt, and gave glory to God. 1802.] ‘Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 457 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 Psalm lvi, 16. Mr. O’Kelly having been taken ill in town, I sent two of our brethren 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 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. I have heard © of the flight of thousands from the city of Philadel- phia; and that all the churches, save the Episco- palian, 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 ! “Fourteen Times Over the Mighty Mountains,” Friday, September 10. We came to Charles Hardy’s, 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 labored upon Holston, and lo, the rage of wild and Christian savages is tamed, and God hath glorified himself! Saturday, 11. I rode to the Salt Works, perhaps for the last time. Alas! there is little sa/¢ 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, and there is a re- vival of religion. 458 Character and Career of [1802. Nearly Five Thousand Miles! I make my calculation upon four thousand nine hundred miles from July 30, 1801, to September 12, 1802. Ifa living man and a Christian might dare to complain Tenn.] Presbyterian Ministers Preaching at Conference. Saturday, October 2, We rode forward to Station Camp and found the conference seated. I was able to ordain by employing Brother M’Kendree to ex- amine 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. Improvised Tents. Monday, 18. 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 while 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, and brave the wilderness again without a tent. Asbury Meets with an Accident. On Tuesday, 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 1802.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 459 manner and desperate in the effects 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 circum- stances 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 to go by a straight line to Camden Conference to be held January 1, 1803. Lifted from his Horse like a Helpless Child. I sent word to James Douthat to explain to the elders of Georgia and South Carolina my situation. I also dispatched John Watson to meet Brother Snethen, and give him my plan to fulfill the appoint- ments ‘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, [ opened not my mouth. 1 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 had no terrors, and I could not but reflect upon my escape from the toil and suf- 460 Character and Career of [1802. ferings of another year. I had no sad forebodings of the ills which might befall the Church ; it is the Lord’s, not mine. Iam 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 mem- bers this. year, have formed Cumberland into a dis- trict, and have sent a missionary to the Natchez. _ Asbury Preaches to a Group of Travelers, Tuesday, November 2. We rode through New Port, the capital of Cock county, forded French Broad -at Shrine’s ferry, and came, cold and without food for man or beast, to John O’Haven’s; but O the kind- ness of our open-hearted, open-handed friends ! Wednesday, 3. We labored over the Ridge and the Paint mountain. I held on awhile, but grew afraid and dismounted, and with the help ofa 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 Nelson’s, Warm Springs. About thirty travelers 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. Visits from House to House. Thursday, 4. 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, and one mile an hour, as the ascent or descent would permit. Four 1802. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 461 hours brought us at the end of twelve miles to dinner, at Barnett’s station, whence we pushed on to John Foster’s, and after making twenty miles more came in about the going down ofthe sun. On Friday and Saturday we visited from house to house. “Two Sticks and a Good Providence.” Tuesday, 8. 1 dined at Benjamin Davidson's, a house I had lodged and preached at two years ago. We labored along eighteen miles; eight ascent on the west side, and as many on the east side of the mountain. The descent of Seleuda 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, labor, two sticks, and above all a good Providence, I came in, about five o'clock, to ancient Father John Douthat’s, Greenville county, South Carolina. Here I found myself at home among kind and attentive friends. 8. G] Six Thousand Miles Nearly Completed. I have heard of successful meetings which have been held by encampments upon the Catawba, at Morgantown, Swannano, Pendleton, and Greenville, in North and South Carolina; ministers of the dif- ferent denominations had attended. More circum- stantial accounts I have not yet been able to obtain. Mr. Newton, a Presbyterian minister in Buncombe county, appears to be greatly engaged in the spirit of the work. I have now nearly completed the six thousand miles since the last of July of the last year. Great and fiery trials; great succeeding con- solations. 462 Character and Career of [1803. Oonference at Camden—Statistics, Thursday, December 30. Rode to Camden. On Friday 1 read in public some letters narrative of the work of God. Thursday, Fanuary 6, 1803. I wrote three large letters to the north, and put myself in order for trav- eling. From Saturday until Wednesday the time was spent in conference and in public exercises. We had preaching every noon and evening ; seven elders and four deacons were ordained. Of preachers, two were admitted and one had located. We had great peace and union in our labors, two days of which were directed to the explanation and recommendation of discipline as it respects the order of the Church. We have added in this conference three thousand three hundred and seventy-one to our number. NG] “T Smile at the Simplicity of our Friends.” Tuesday, February 8. I sometimes smile at the simplicity of our friends. They would love us to death, in company and in labors too. They cannot do too much, it would seem, to express their kind- ness ; and in return, we are to be such immortal men as never to be weary and never to complain. Cake and Oheese by the Way. Thursday, 17. We took a south-west course, through ice, snow, and frost, and the wind in our faces, and arrived at Lot Ballard’s at half past three o'clock. Here our appointment at the chapel was for twelve o'clock. Friday, 18. Finding it was but forty-two miles to Newbern we concluded to push for it. I rose early, 1803. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 463 ordained J. Wilden to the office of deacon, and started. I had had thoughts of calling at a certain house, but being fearful we had not the time to spare, we stopped and fed on the ground. With a little cake and cheese, and some corn for our horses, we came in fine spirits to Newbern. Vail An Objection as Old as Methodism, Friday, March 11. As we had two appointments I preached at Deacon Haslet’s, to many people, on 1 Pet. v, 10. We had a consoling, gracious season. Brother Snethen preached at Suffolk. I was sur- prised to hear that some who. had separated from us should have reported that the new meeting-houses would belong to the Bishops, and that they might sell them. These reports were offered by some, not of the connection, as reasons which prevented their sub- scribing, and our brethren have therefore determined to build without the aid of others. What our ene- mies accuse us of intending to do they have already done in some cases and attempted in others. Bad Roads and Hungry Travelers, Monday, 21. We traveled, very unwell, to Mr. Wal- tall’s, near Chesterfield court-house. Rested in part, and then divided our ride to Richmond into a journey of twodays. We arrived on Zuesday, and I preached at twelve o’clock to many serious people on Titus ii, 10-13. N.Snethen preached at seven o'clock. - Next day we came along to Caroline, thirty-five miles. In the morning it rained, and the day was wintry and dreary ; we saw the wagons sinking and set fast, for in many places the route was dreadful ; but we wor- 464 Character and Career of [1803. ried through, feeding our horses once and ourselves not at all. Next day I preached once more at Dick- enson’s chapel; my subject was Heb. iii, 12-14. I feel my infirmities and the labor of my journeys, but my soul is cast upon the Lord in unceasing prayer that God may guide the Church, and give the spirit of wisdom and love and zeal to our conferences. We only, as we think, want more useful laborers in the vineyard, and thousands will be brought home to God in the cities, circuits, and towns this year. I lodged at the Widow Collins’s. friday, 25. We rode to Fredericksburg and dined, and then pushed on to Stafford court-house, making forty miles this day. Next day we gained Alexan- dria, eating nothing between seven o’clock in the morning and seven at night. Md) Baltimore the Banner Conference in Finances, Tuesday, 29. We reached Baltimore;’ forty-five miles, stopping an hour on our way at the Widow Turner’s. We have traveled about three hundred miles toward eight thousand miles. Tuesday, April 12. It is sufficiently proved that, upon our present plan, unless the preachers exert themselves, every conference in the Union, except that of Baltimore, will be insolvent in its finances. In the late and last year’s conferences they have had a surplus here; they have supported wives, widows, and children, and in the present instance have sup- plied the contingencies of those preachers who have gone to distant parts, besides giving one hundred dollars to the Philadelphia, and as much, each, to the conferences of New York end Boston. I can say, 1803.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 465 } hitherto the Lord hath helped us through deeps, des- erts, dangers, and distresses. I have told but a small part of our labors and sufferings—let the great day of eternity reveal the rest! Yesterday I preached at Gatch’s chapel on 1 Peter v, 10. We then came on to Perry Hall. To-day we have hada meeting here. Brother Whatcoat preached upon Col. ii, 6. My mind is solemnly stayed upon God. Asbury’s Estimate of the Superintendency, On Wednesday we parted with the elders at Perry Hall. I had preached on 2 Cor. xii, 9,10. We rode on to Deer Creek, and halted for the night with Harry Watters. My mind is in a great calm after the tumult of a Baltimore conference, and the continual concourse of visitors and people to which my duty subjected me. I have felt deeply engaged and much self-pos- session; indeed, age, grace, and the weight and responsibility of one of the greatest charges:upon earth ought to make me serious. Oaprice and Display Unacceptable to the Bishop. Tuesday, 19. I spoke at the Manor chapelon 1 Cor. xiv, 15. After meeting, we crossed Bohemia and Sassafras Rivers and housed with Robert Moody. My mind is kept in peace; I only seek to please and to serve my fellow-men as ely and impar- tially as I can. Wednesday, 20. My subject at the new chapel, George Town Cross Roads, was 1 Tim. iv, 2, We had a living season. Our brethren from Chester Town came to meet us, to convey us forward with 30 466 Character and Career of [1803. more ease. Save me from parade! the greatest good-will and the kindest intentions, will never make it acceptable in my eyes ; I choose rather to go on in my own way, though I suffer for it. A Conference of One Hundred Preachers, Thursday, 28. 1 preached at Fosters chapel on 1 Pet. i, 4, and came along to Major Mitchell’s, in Caroline ; the wind was east, the evening cold, and I unwell. At Denton I took to bed awhile; we con- tinued on, however, and reached Choptank. On Saturday 1 rode, under great bodily affliction, to Duck Creek Town. I sat in our conference; held in the Friends’ meeting-house, four days. We had nearly one hundred preachers, traveling and local, present for the transaction of business. Twelve elders and twelve deacons were ordained. Pa] A Searching Sermon at St, George's, Tuesday, May 10. We camé into the city of Phila- delphia ; the rain brought on my intermitting fever ; yet, unwell as I was, conditional appointments had been made by my friends ; but instead of the pulpit I took to my room. My journey from Baltimore to this city has brought me over about three hundred and fifty miles. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 1 remained in Philadelphia, most of the time confined tg my room. I crept out upon the Sabbath day, and preached at St. George’s on 2 Pet. i, 5-9; my voice was weak, and some could not hear ; but it was a searching sermon and in season. We set out on Monday, and reached Burlington by twelve 1803.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated, 467 o'clock. I crossed over and preached in our new house in the solitary town of Bristol. James Ster- ling and Thomas Ware accompanied me. N.Y.) No. Improvement Discernible, Tuesday, 17. We rode to Joseph Hutchinson’s, and next day came to Elizabethtown and lodged at Mr. Crowell’s. On Thursday we reached New York. On Friday and Saturday I did a little in writing, talking, planning, and thinking. I can hear, see, or feel no more of religion here than there was last year. I signed a memorial for the obtaining in the court a legal claim to £300 left by Miss De Peyster for the bishops and clergy of the Methodist Church, to be appropriated in the best manner for the good of the society. Conn.) = The Bishops neither Popes nor Politicians. friday, 27. Finding the road, by information, to be rocky and hilly, we were persuaded to come back to the post-road. We therefore directed our course down through Greenfield and Bridgeport to Stratford, and arriving at Elkanan Wheeler’s, we were willing to rest; thirty miles of our journey we made without feeding man or beast. My health is better. The Baptists of Connecticut have sent their petition from the Assembly to the Legislature of Connecticut to the bishops of the Methodist Church, that they may have their aid in obtaining toleration. What can we do, and how is it our business? We are neither popes nor politicians. Let our brethren assert their own liberties. 468 Character and Career of [1803. Mass] Boston Conference—Ordination of Joshua Soule, Wednesday, Fune 8. We came through dust to Boston, and as eighteen members were present we opened the conference in our solitary little chapel. We sat six hours a day for the dispatch of business, and there was preaching at eleven and five o'clock and in the evening. It was all new, but nothing special appeared. Saturday, 11. We ordained Joshua Soule and Na- than Emory elders, and Edward Whittle deacon. As our work was done, and we were feeble, we came away to Waltham. We have an increase of five hun- dred members. The great wants of Boston are good religion and good water. N.H] What Industry and Economy will Do, Thursday, 16. We came to Ebenezer Colburn’s, New Hampshire, and I preached upon Titus ii, 11, 12.. Next day we labored through extreme heat, and over high hills, to Marlborough, and were glad to rest our- selves at Ebenezer Herrick’s, opposite the west side of the great mountain called Monadnick. This por- tion of the State of New Hampshire is full of hemlock swamps, and I question if any part of the Alleghany, south, is more broken ; the roads, however, are greatly improved, and there is a turnpike extending from Boston to Keene. The soil, though barren, exhibits, in its abundant productions of grass, oats, barley, rye, and potatoes, what the arm of labor and habits of economy and industry will do; out-doors there is a well-kept stock of cattle, sheep, and hogs, and in- doors you see plenty of cheese, butter, and milk, and fish from the mill-ponds, which are wonderfully fre- 1803.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 469 quent, producing the finest trout and pike ; the people are pictures of health, and appear to be of the old English stamina. : Quarterly Meeting—Elder Ostrander. Saturday, 18, We journeyed through the vale and pleasant town of Keene, and climbed along, height after height, toward Walpole; seven miles off, upon the south-west, we turned and came to Westmore- land, and held our quarterly meeting for Chester- field circuit at Jonathan Winchester’s, brother to the famous Universalist of that name. I opened the meeting in a new barn upon Titus ii, 13, 14. On the Sabbath we were crowded from seven o'clock in the morning until three in the afternoon ; the wind from the south-east blew in at the door, and it rained withal. Brother Whatcoat and Elder Ostrander preached before, and the young men exhorted after love-feast and the sacrament. Vt) Quite in the Old Style. Wednesday, 22. We had a meeting at a school- house near to Joseph Jacob’s, in Guilford ; Brother Whatcoat preached upon the perfect law of liberty, and we had a gracious season. N.Y.) Seventy Preachers in Conference, Friday, Fuly 1. We opened our conference at John Baker's, in the Holloway, prettily environed with hills, a carpet of green spread beneath, and here and there around us fields clothed with the promise of an abundant harvest. We finished our business on Tyes- day, public and private ; there were nearly seventy 470 Character and Career of [1803. preachers and fifty members. On the Saddath day perhaps we had two thousand hearers; the house was filled with women, and the men stood without. I stood in the door, and spoke to them from 1 Tim. iv, 11,12; but I had been overcome by twelve hours’ a day constant attention to business in the confer- ence, and spoke with pain. Statistios—Asbury’s Ambition, Monday, 11. We rose at four o’clock, and came off at six, and at twelve stopped at Mr. Ostrander’s ; in this happy family we found the Son of peace. We came on to New Windsor, (through Newburg,) to John Ellis’s, making forty miles. I have traveled about two hundred miles through the State of New York. By a fair computation I judge that we have added, exclusive of the dead, the removed, and the expelled and withdrawn, 17,300. Our total for the year 1803 is 104,070 members. In 1771 there were about 300 Methodists in New York, 250 in Philadelphia, and a few in Jersey. I then longed for 100,000; now [| want 200,000—nay, thousands upon thousands. NJ] Preaches at Trenton, Saturday, 16. We were driven into Jonathan Bunn’s by a blessed rain. On the Sabbath day, at Trenton, my subject was 2 Cor. xi, 17. Pa,] “Heat, Dust, and Turnpike Gates,” Monday, 18. I must here, in Philadelphia, labor with the pen, answer letters, and refit for the Western Conference. friday, 22. We left the city. During my three 1803.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 471 days’ stay I preached once at the Academy. On the Great Valley Road we stopped at Brother Geiger’s, and housed for the night with an exceeding kind German family by the name of Kenagee. On Satur- day we found heat, and dust, and turnpike-gates (twelve in seventy-five miles) as usual. Sabbath, 24, we spent at Soudersburg. Ispoke on Psalm li, 9-12, Here Bishop Whatcoat concluded he must stop, or go on with me and die by inches. Asbury at Oarlisle, Friday, 29. We had a sultry ride to Carlisle. Henry Boehm preached in the evening. Next day, at eleven o'clock, I gave them a sermon from Col. iii, 12-14 5 in the evening Wilson Lee spoke. On the Sabbath we had a prayer-meeting at five o'clock; James Smith preached at eight o'clock ; I spoke on 2 Cor. vi, 2,and Wilson Lee in the afternoon ; we had excessive heat, but the people were very at- tentive. I have read the half of the “ Portrait of St. Paul!” O inimitable Fletcher—in preaching, writing, in living, and in dying ! Religious Condition of Pennsylvania, August 2. On Tuesday morning at four o’clock we set out to scale the mountains. We passed a little town called Strasburg, and another called Emmets- burg; here we stopped, and I laid myself down upon the floor to rest. Intense heat, rugged mountains, and a wasting dysentery almost overcame me. I feel, and have felt thirty-two years, for Pennsylvania—the most wealthy, and the most careless about God and the things of God; but I hope God will shake the 472 Character and Career of [1803. State and the Churches. There are now upward of twenty German preachers somehow connected with Mr. Otterbein and Martin Boehm; but they want authority, and the Church wants discipline. Asbury’s Legacy—Who Wants It? Tuesday, 9. At Murphy’s barn I spoke on 1 Cor. vii, 29-31. Although much afflicted I felt wholly given up to do or suffer the will of God: to be sick or well, and to live or die at any time and in any place— the fields, the woods, the house, or the wilderness. Glory be to God for such resignation! I have little to leave, except a journey of five thousand miles a year, the care of more than a hundred thousand souls, and the arrangement of about four hundred preachers yearly, to which I may add the murmurs and discon- tent of the ministers and people. Who wants this legacy? Those who do are welcome to it for me! Camp-Meeting on the Monongahela, Friday, 9. Our camp-meeting began to-day. The ground chosen was William Jackman’s, near the old fort upon the Monongahela ; it was upon a beautiful eminence the great stand was erected, and a second one to the left, concealed by the trees. On Saturday I preached to about one thousand hearers. My text was Isa. lv, 12. The Sabbath was wet in the morn- ing, but, clearing away, both stands were occupied, and there might be in the two congregations nearly four thousand people. There was a visible impression made upon many, and we hope fifty souls were con- verted to God. On TYwesday we came away, while others were coming to the ground. Thornton Flem- 1803.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 473 ing and James Quinn went back and preached. We came to Samuel Hammond’s. : Pittsburg—“Tt is Time we had a House of our Own.” Saturday, 27. We had a dry, sultry ride to Pitts- burg. In the evening William Page preached. In the court-house I spoke on the Sadbéath day to about four hundred people. My subject was 1 Chron. vii, 14. I would have preached again, but the Epis- copalians occupied the house. I come but once in twelve years, but they could not consent to give way for me. It is time we had ahouse of our own. I think I have seen a lot which will answer to build upon. An Aged Presbyterian, Monday, 29. I came down and crossed at the old fort, the point of confluence of the rivers Monon- gahela and Alleghany, whence these united waters flow under the appropriate name of Ohio, beautiful. I crossed Sawmill and the Shirtee, and passed the lands of General Nevill. At John Wrenshall’s I found an agreeable hostess and lovely children. Riding up the road I met an aged Presbyterian, who told me that religion was at a great height in Mr. Wood’s - congregation, that yesterday under preaching several fell down. He asked my opinion of the work. I re- plied, that in my judgment any person who could not give an account of the convincing and converting power of God might be mistaken. Falling down would not do. We agreed in sentiment. Va.] In Brook and Ohio Counties, _Monday, September 5. We rode ten miles to John Beck's, near West Liberty. I preached on Acts 474 Character and Career of [ 1803. ili, 26. One soul who had been convicted at our * quarterly meeting professed to find peace with God, and shouted g/ory / with a loud voice. On Tuesday I preached near this place to a crowd at John Spaugh’s. I came with Rezin Pomfrey down the great hill to the Ohio. Wednesday brought us to Charlestown, the capital of Brook county, situated at the mouth of Buffalo, eighty miles from Pittsburg. We found the Ohio so low that the boat of Colonel Lewis, who is going to explore the Mississippi, would not float over the flats. Ohio] Asbury Preaches in a “Presbyterian Tent,” Thursday, 8. I reached Steubenville, and preached on Luke xix, ro. As the court-house could not con- tain the people we went toa Presbyterian tent, for which, as the “Jews and Samaritans have no deal- ings” in this country, we must ask pardon. I was invited to dine with Mr. Bezaleel Wells, one of the proprietors of this town, and the rich occupant of a large mansion which if rough-cast would be grand. The rivers and streams were never.lower than now. My mind is greatly engaged with God in public and private, but I feel the power of Satan in these little wicked western trading towns. Introduction of Slaves Prohibited, Tuesday, 20. Was a day of settled rain. We sought shelter at Edward Teal’s. Next day, having two appointments, we set out and got bewildered in the woods, and lost our way upon Mount Pleasant. We judged it best to take the path to New Lancaster, . and to try to secure our second appointment at Broad Cole’s. After riding about twenty miles, and again 1803.] Bishop Asbury [lustrated. 475 missing our way, we came in at three o'clock, and I preached upon Luke xi, 13. I took lodging at Mr. Daniel Van Meeter’s. Mr. Van Meeter told me that a boy had cultivated about twelve acres, which would yield him about seven hundred bushels of Indian corn. Now what do these people want with slaves? They have wisely prohibited their introduction into the State. American Enterprise in the State of Ohio. Wednesday, 28. We crossed the Ohio into the State of Kentucky, Fleming county, stopping at Salathiel Fitch’s. It is wonderful to contemplate the effects of American enterprise exhibited in the State of Ohio. It is but four years since Zane opened the road for the general government through the wilderness so lately called, and now there are the towns of Marietta, at the mouth of the Muskingum, of about one thousand houses ; Cincinnati, contain- ing as many ; Hamilton, of five hundred houses ; and many others whose names are scarcely fixed. Ky.] Conference and Conversions. Thursday, 30. We came through Bourbon county. I crossed Licking River by the Salt Works, and rode thirty-three miles to B. Coleman’s, at Mount Gerizim, to attend the Kentucky Conference. This was a heavy ride, without food for man or beast until we reached home. Monday, October 3. We entered fully upon our con- ference work, but I had to preach nevertheless. We had preaching every day, and the people continued singing and prayer, night and day, with little inter- mission. On Wednesday the meeting closed. We 476 Character and Career of [1803. hope there were twenty souls converted to God, be- sides five who are reported to have been converted at a family meeting. Our conference ended on Thursday, the 6th. Missionaries Appointed to Natchez and Illinois, Saturday, 8. I felt my mind devoutly fixed on God. I accomplished two things in conference, namely: 1. Forming the Ohio circuits into a district ; 2. Send- ing two missionaries to Natchez and one to the IIli- nois, as the wzzutes of the present year will show. Tenn.] A Description of Western Emigration, Friday, 14. We came to Hunt’s, at Claiborne’s court- house, and next day reached Martin Stubblefield’s. What a road have we passed! certainly the worst on the whole continent, even in the best weather ; yet, bad as it was, there were four or five hundred cross- ing the rude hills while we were. I was powerfully struck with the consideration that there were at least as many thousand emigrants annually from east to west. We must take care to send preachers after these people. N.0] Asbury’s Return from the Western World. Friday, 28. We came up Little River, a sister stream of French Broad. It offered some beautiful flats of land. We found a new road, lately cut, which brought us in at the head of Little River, at the old fording-place, and within hearing of the falls, a few miles off the head of Matthews Creek, a branch of the Seleuda. The waters, foaming down the rocks with a descent.of half a mile, make themselves heard at a great distance. I walked down the mountain, 1803. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 477 after riding sixteen or eighteen miles before break- fast, and came in about twelve o'clock to Father John Douthat’s. Once more I have escaped from filth, fleas, rattlesnakes, hills, mountains, rocks, and rivers. Farewell, Western World, for awhile! We are twelve hundred and seventy miles from Philadelphia. 8. 0] A House of Worship Built by one Man. Friday, November 4. We recrossed the branches of Tiger and Enoree Rivers, and came along a crip- pling path to Thomas Terry’s, near the Fork Shoals of Reedy River. We have a new frame house, thirty by twenty-four feet, built for worship, on Mount Terry. This has been erected in pursuance of my last year’s advice, and by one man. To-morrow we shall open our new house. The Preachers’ House in Oharleston a Paradise, Friday, 18. We came to Mr. M’Quinn’s, and next day reached Charleston, after riding thirty miles without rest or food for man or beast. I took pos- session of the new house built for the preachers near the new chapel. Sunday, 20. I went once more to Cumberland- street house, and had gracious feelings while ex- pounding I Pet.v,10. My stay being short, I attended in the afternoon and spoke upon David’s repentance, as recorded in Psalm li, 9-11. This also was a sea- sonable time, and all were attentive. Brother Ken- drick spoke in the new church in the afternoon, and Brother Dougharty in the old church at night, while the new church was occupied by Brother Darley. All this labor was, we hope, not in vain; some ap- 478 Character and Career of [1803. peared to be in distress. Who knows what God will yet do for wicked Charleston? I continued a week in Charleston, lodging in our own house at Bethel, receiving my visitors, ministers and people, white, black, and yellow; it was a paradise to me and to some others. Ga.] News of the Progress of the Work of God. Friday, December 2. We reached our place of desti- nation. ‘My mind is calm, and hath been kept in a praying frame. By letter from Philip Bruce I learn that the work of God has promising appearances in the eastern and western districts of North Carolina, but abundantly more so in the south district of Vir- ginia. Ata kind of camp-meeting, held at Woolsey Barn, (but now Ellis’s chapel more properly,) there have been, report says, one hundred whites and a number of blacks converted to God. At Guilford quarterly meeting thirty, and as many within a short space at Norfolk, brought to Christ. But still larger accounts are received of the work of the Lord in this State; this, however, may be more fully known by reference to Stith Mead’s narrative letters on the subject. My lodging in Augusta is with Peter Can- talou, a friend from France. Difference Between a Pope and a Methodist Bishop, Thursday, 15. 1 will make a few observations upon the ignorance of foolish men, who will rail against our Church government. The Methodists acknowl- edge no superiority but what is founded on seniority, election, and long and faithful services. For myself, I pity those who cannot distinguish between a Pope of Rome and an old worn man of about sixty years, 1803.] Bishop Asbury [llustrated. 479 who has the power given him of riding five thousand miles a year, at a salary of eighty dollars, through summer’s heat and winter’s cold, traveling in all weather, preaching in all places; his best covering from rain often but a blanket; the surest sharpener of his wit, hunger—from fasts voluntary and invol- untary ; his best fare, for six months of the twelve, coarse kindness; and his reward, from too many, suspicion, envy, and murmurings all the year round. Bishop Coke at the Augusta Conference, Fanuary 4, 1804. We met for conference. Bishop Coke preached in the morning and in the afternoon at John’s, (the old house,) Augusta. On Monday we opened our conference in Mr. Can- talou’s house. We conducted our business in great harmony, and did it hastily. There was preaching every evening, and the bishops bore their share of ministerial labors. Elders and deacons were ordained. I found little difficulty in stationing the preachers. The conference rose at eleven o'clock on Thursday, and I took the road to Swearingham’s, eighteen miles. On Friday I reached Williams’s, and on Saturday, Columbia. Sadéath day found me in bed, confined by a deep cold and an affection of my breast. A cold, hungry ride brought us to Camden on Monday. I gave Bishop Coke a plan for a journey as far as Boston, before the General Conference. Asbury’s Reasons for a Life of Celibacy. Friday, 27. We reached Georgetown. I have suf- fered in my flesh, and have had “deep waters” of a temporal and spiritual nature to wade through. 480 Character and Career of [ 1804. If I should die in celibacy, which I think quite probable, I give the following reasons for what can scarcely be called my choice: I was called in my ‘fourteenth year; I began my public exercises be- tween sixteen and seventeen; at twenty-one I trav- eled ; at twenty-six I came to America—thus far I had reasons enough for a single life. It had been my intention of returning to Europe at thirty years of age; but the war continued, and it was ten years before we had a settled, lasting peace—this was no time to marry or be given in marriage. At forty- nine I was ordained superintendent bishop in Amer- ica. Among the duties imposed upon me by my office was that of traveling extensively, and I could hardly expect to find a woman with grace enough to enable her to live but one week out of the fifty-two with her husband ; besides, what right has any man to take advantage of the affections of a woman, make her his wife, and by a voluntary absence subvert the whole order and economy of the marriage state, by separating those whom neither God, nature, nor the requirements of civil society permit long to be put asunder 2—it is neither just nor generous. I may add to this, that I had little money, and with this little administered to the necessities of a beloved mother until I was fifty-seven. If I have done wrong, I hope God and the sex will forgive me. It is my duty now to bestow the pittance I may have to spare upon the widows and fatherless girls, and poor mar- ried men. NG] Asbury’s Work Oppresses Him. Monday, February 27. At Gardener’s bridge I spoke to many hearers on Luke iv, 18, 19. It was very 1804.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 481 chilly. In the evening we came to John Watt’s. Thirty miles to-day, without fire or food, from seven to five o'clock in the evening. On ‘7wesday, being unwell, Brother M’Caine officiated forme. “I groan, being burdened”—seven conferences to appoint the stations in; to officiate in the General Conference of this year; seventeen States to visit, requiring a ride of five thousand miles, at the rate of twenty, thirty, and forty miles a day. O Lord, give me support! for every day, every hour, and every moment is a time of need with me. We rode up to Colonel Samuel Williams’s, twenty miles. At Williams’s chapel, Tay- lor’s ferry, truly the great ones were present to hear, and I preached to them upon the great salvation; to little purpose I fear. We have small fruit of twenty- five years of faithful labors upon the rich lands of Roanoke. Va] Lot in Sodom. Friday, March 16, At the court-house in Elizabeth City, Pasquotank county, I preached upon Matt, vil, 7-11. Many heard, but few felt. I dined with Mr. Mitchell, a lone Methodist from Cornwall, Great Britain: Lot in Sodom. The site of this place is beautiful for its land and water prospects, and the situation is good for trade. We rode on to Camden, and had to beg a lodging of Mr. Joseph Sandlin, who belongs to the Baptists. These people carry the day here in respectability and numbers. A Female Charitable Society. Monday, 19, I preached at James Wilson’s; Zwes- day at Cutherell’s ; Wednesday at Portsmouth; Thurs- day at Norfolk ; and on Friday and Saturday I was 31 482 Character and Career of [1804. housed. At a meeting of the women we laid the foundation of a female charitable society of Norfolk, similar in plan to those of New York and Baltimore, but more liberal. May this live, grow, and flourish when I am cold and forgotten ! A New Ohapel—“I Named it Ebenezer.” Sabbath Day, 25. I preached at Norfolk upon Matt. Xxvili, I9, 20; and at Portsmouth, in the afternoon, my subject was 1 Peter ii, g-12. Monday, 26. I preached at a new meeting-house fourteen miles up the road toward Suffolk. Here, after thirty years’ labor, first and last, we have a chapel; I named it Ebenezer. At Suffolk, on Ziues- day, unwell as I was, labor went hard with me. I had an almost total obstruction of perspiration, but a pulpit sweat relieved me in a good degree. My-soul is calm. : A Retrospect. Sunday, April 8. I spoke on 2 Peter iii, 7-11, at the Olive Branch chapel. I am taking leave of the people every visit. I have made up one thousand miles, from Augusta, Georgia, to Brunswick county, Virginia. In old Virginia I have administered the word thirty years. There is a great mortality among the aged. Our old members drop off surprisingly ; but they all, by account, die in the Lord, and in gen- eral triumphantly. Now-I have finished my tour of duty for the past month. To ride twenty and thirty miles a day; to preach, baptize, and administer the Lord’s Supper ; to write and answer letters, and plan for myself and four hundred preachers—O Lord, I have not desired this day, thou knowest! I refused 1804.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 483 to travel as long as I could, and I lived long before I took upon me the superintendency of the Methodist Church in America, and now I bear it as a heavy load. I hardly bear it, and yet dare not cast it down, for fear God and my brethren should cast me down for such an abandonment of duty. True it is, my wages are great—precious souls here, and glory here- after. Tuesday, 10. Our Virginia Conference began in Mecklenburg county, Salem. We sat six hours a day and wrought with great application. We had an addition of fifteen preachers, besides two dead, seven located, one expelled; so there was a gain of eight. I liked what was done; only, the preachers’ experi- ences, the state of the work, and the circuits were not given; so we concluded to recommend a session of six days for the next yearly conference, appointed to be held at Edmund Taylor’s, North Carolina, March 1, 1805. What I have felt was only known to the Lord; what I have done was for God and his Church. We have added, after a great mortality, one thousand members to the Virginia Conference bounds. Ma.) General Conference in Baltimore, Monday, May 7. Our General Conference began. What was done the revised form of Discipline will show. There were attempts made upon the ruling eldership. Wehada great talk. I talked little upon any subject, and was kept in peace. I preached but twice. ; Thursday, 24. 1 came off to Perry Hall, on my way to Soudersberg, to meet the Philadelphia Conference. The Lord did not own the ministerial labors of the 484 Character and Career of [1804. General Conference. It was a doubt if any souls were converted. This made us mourn. I prayed for hundreds, but God did not answer my prayer. Pa] Conference at Soudershurg. Friday, 25. We came to Jarrett’s and dined, and continued on to Benjamin Mannifold’s. On the Sad- bath we crossed the Susquehanna at M’Call’s ferry, and came to Martin Boehm’s. I preached at Boehm’s chapel, and then came away to Soudersburg. The conference opened on ; Monday morning, 28. We had great order. We sat five days and a half. There were one hundred and twenty-five preachers present, whose characters and experiences were brought before us. I preached twice. NJ] From Philadelphia to New York, Tuesday, Funes. I dined at Burlington, and lodged at H. Hamilton’s. Wednesday evening brought us to Joseph Hutchinson’s ; at Brunswick we dined next day, stopping for the night with Mr. Flatt, Rahway, and on Friday passed through Elizabethtown and Newark and reached New York. N. Y.] Thomas Lyell Proposes to Leave the Methodists, Saturday, 9. Busy answering letters. On the Sabbath I preached in our house in John-street on Heb. x, 23-25. It was an open season. Monday, 11. We spent some time in social confer- ence with the preachers. To-day Mr. Thomas Lyell Spoke out in a letter to me, saying that he wished to be located. I thought that I had discovered his de- 1804.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 485 signs, and those of Mr. Dashiell, during the sitting of the General Conference in Baltimore. I am will- ing that he should belong to the Church people; I believe they have more need of him than the Meth- odists have. I answered Mr. Lyell by telling him that I would do what I could to procure him a location at the conference held in Boston. It may suffice to say that our present conference was a happy one, and a conference of great business. We had sermons every day at noon. Fourteen dea- cons and eight elders were ordained, the last at the Bowery church, where I preached upon 2 Tim. iv, I-4. Conn] A False Friend. Saturday, 23. We rode to Brother Wheeler’s, dined, and rode on to New Haven. We havea good turnpike to travel on, and a good bridge to cross the Housatonic. Sabbath Day, 24. I preached to a few souls in our small house on Heb. ili, 12-14. I have little leisure to journalize. My soul has constant peace and joy notwithstanding my labors, and trials, and reproach, which I heed not, though it come, as it sometimes does, from the good, when they are not gratified in all their wishes. People unacquainted with the causes and motives of my conduct will always, more or less, judge of me improperly. Six months ago a man could write to me in the most adulatory terms, to tell me of the unshaken confidence reposed in me by preachers and people: behold, his station is changed, and certain measures are pursued which do not com- port with his views and feelings: O, then I am men- aced with the downfall of Methodism, and my influ- A486 Character and Career of [1804. ence, character, and reputation are all to find a grave in the ruins! Asbury Watchful of the Preachers, Friday, 29. We came through Plainfield, Stirling, Scituate, and Coventry to Cranston, and stopped at General Lippet’s. Sabbath, Fuly 1. I preached to a few people at Lippet’s chapel; my subject was 1 John i, 3-7. It was a gracious season to the speaker and the hearers. Sylvester Hutchinson, my traveling companion, gave them a sermon in the afternoon. I came this way only to hear how the preachers had conducted their work. BI] Through Rhode Island, Monday, 2. We rode through Providence, dined five miles beyond Attleborough, and housed with a Mr. Guilds. , Masa] Once More in the “Pleasant Town of Lynn,” Saturday, 7. A.very sultry ride of twenty miles brought us to the pleasant town of Lynn. On the Sabbath day 1 preached upon 1 John iii, 1-3. The state of the society in this town is more pleasing than formerly. Peter Jayne, brought up among them, is an acceptable preacher. A house is begun for the preachers tolivein. Sylvester Hutchinson preached in the afternoon. I spoke also, and read letters giv- ing an account of the work in the South. O when shall we see such things in New England! Sweeping Through the Towns, Monday, 9. We rode to Salem, Beverly, Windham, Hamilton, Ipswich, Rowley, and Newburyport, and 1804.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 487 so on to Salisbury. We had flies, mosquitoes, heat, dust, and weariness. We lodged at the sisters Eaton’s. NB] “Robed in His Gown ”—The Contrast, Passing through Saybrook on Tuesday, we saw one, once of our despised order, robed in his gown and sitting in his house like a gentleman, while we were beating along like Jonah. Well, the emd is all. Conference at Buxton—Fifty Conversions. Friday, 13. We passed Doughty’s Falls, on the way to Standish, and landed at Buxton. Saturday, 14. Opened our conference. We ad- mitted and elected nine deacons and two elders. We had preaching yesterday and to-day. Sabbath, 15. We opened by prayer and exhortation at eight o'clock. At half after ten o’clock I took my stand in the woods, but in about forty minutes the rain fell. There were powerful exercises in the meeting-house until near six o’clock. The Lord ap- peared ; several souls were brought under distress. I trust the fruits of this day’s labor will be seen in eternity. Monday, 16. We had preaching and the ordination in the woods ; my subject was 2 Tim. iii, 1-7. It was an open time, and the work of God broke forth upon the right hand and upon the left. On Tuesday we hasted the work of the conference, and concluded after appointing our next session at Lynn, July 12, 1805. Wednesday, 18. It is reported there were fifty souls converted to God. The work continued last night. 488 Character and Career of [1804. Vi.] Asbury Passes through Towns and States Comet-like, Tuesday, 24. We came in haste to Westminster to breakfast. This is another pleasant little town ; it may have fifty houses. At Putney we found a stream, mills, a store, and a tavern. Passing over a slate ridge, and through Dammerston, we came to Brattle- borough, which we found a pleasant place, with the advantage of a stream, well employed as a mill-power. At Guilford we rested with Mr. Jacobs from three o'clock in the evening until Wednesday morning at five o’clock, when we took our departure from our host and from the State of Vermont. At Greenfield, in Massachusetts, we breakfasted, having passed Barnardston, the first village we entered in the State. We started away again to Deerfield, Conway, Ash- field, Plainfield, Commington, Windsor, Dalton, Pitts- field, and Richmond, and so on out of the State, but I was glad to stop fifteen miles short of Pittsfield, after riding over dreadful hills and rocks forty-five miles. We lodged at a tavern, weary, weary enough! We took our breakfast with Robert Green, in Pitts- field. Here we crossed the head branch of the Hou- satonic River, that winds its way by Stratford down through Connecticut into the sea. N.Y.) Suffers from Hunger—Sympathy for the Preachers. Thursday, 26. We lodged at Dr. Wager’s, in the State of New York. Next day we directed our course through Claverack, and came in to Robert Sands’s, Rhinebeck, about five o’clock. My mind hath been cheerfully happy and mostly in prayer. I was some- times ready to wish I had no company, and no ob- servations to make, to hinder my constant communion 1804. | Bishop Asbury Ilustrated. 489 with God. Since I left New York I have spent fifteen dollars feeding man and beast by the way, and my companions were also obliged to do so. I have seen the sufferings of our preachers and they have awakened all my sympathies. Seventeen times we dined, fed, or supped at taverns ; and well it was we had these to go to, else we had been, starved, We have crossed the east and west ends of Massachu- setts and New Hampshire, and have ridden about three hundred miles in the State of New York. One Thousand and Fifty Miles, Wednesday, August 1. We rose at five o'clock, and rode, fasting, over the rugged hills of Peekskill and Fishkill; but we were willing to walk at times. We breakfasted with William Likley, from Aberdeen, Scotland ; he has been about forty years in the New ‘World. Wecame on to Esquire Kirby’s, and, hav- ing dined in haste, pushed on, and came, an hour in the night, to my Zome at the Widow Sherwood’s. We have ridden fifty miles to-day, over a path so rough and uneven we could not get along fast. This hasty work interrupts that close communion with God my soul longeth after. I have made, I judge, one thou- sand and fifty miles since I left Baltimore, and there still remain one thousand miles between me and Mount Gerizim, the seat of our conference for the Ist of October next. Thursday and Friday I devoted to rest, reading, writing, meditation, and prayer. On Saturday 1 came alone to New York. N. J.J “Farewell to Tommy Lyell.” Monday, 6. We crossed the river in a calm, but we were dripping by the time we came to Newark. Here 490 Character and Career of [1804. we rested two hours, then hastened on to Elizabeth- town, dined, and kept on to Rahway. The night brought us up at Amboy, with Benjamin Drake. Tuesday, 7. We had a rainy morning. We have our ancient seasons—plentiful rains and cold wea- ther. This will prevent the fevers. Mr. Lyell has engaged with Mr. Pilmoor’s old congregation at 4450 a year: so farewell to Tommy Lyell! I hope it may end well. We got as far as Joseph Hutch- inson’s. Pa] Elder MClasky, Wednesday, 8. I had a sweet, solitary ride to H. Hancock’s. The next day found me breakfasting at Burlington, and by two o’clock I had reached Henry Manly’s retreat. My mind is devoted toGod. Ihad a pensive letter from Elder M’Clasky lamenting the death of his son—but ome, but only one, alas! I wrote to Smith, Chandler, and Colbert, presiding elders. I preached once at St. George’s upon Luke xvii, 5, and at the Academy, in the afternoon, on 1 Cor, xv, 58. Del] “Forty-five Miles To-day.” Monday, 13. I came away from the city to break- fast with Sister Withy. I dined with Allen M’Lane and lodged with J. Hersey. Forty-five miles to- day. _ Tuesday, 14. I took breakfast at North East, or- dained James Cook a deacon, and .came on to Perry -Hall. Forty-five miles to-day. I found the family of P. H. absent; they are gone to Bath. Wednesday, 15. I rested, being stiff and sore. My poor beast should have had three days to perform 1804.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 491 that which she has done in two; she shall rest three days in Baltimore. Thence to Mount Gerizim she will have only twenty miles a day, or less, to travel. Next day I came alone to Baltimore, where I re- mained. Md] Street Preaching and Female Prayer-Meetings. Sabbath, 19. I preached in Light-street church ; my subject was Luke xiv, 25-27. At three o'clock I preached at Mr. Otterbein’s on 1 Tim. vi, 6-10. . This has been an open day with me. I am inclined to think preaching must be in the lanes and streets of the cities. I advised the preachers to go out to the church-yards; to the sisters I recommended more frequent prayer-meetings. I revised the Re- vised Form of the spiritual part of our Discipline. I had long wished to separate the most excellent from the excellent. Va.) Melancholy End of Joseph Cromwell. Saturday, 25. Starting at six o’clock I made four- teen miles to Clarke’s tavern, to breakfast, through mountain rain and over mountain roads. After a long absence I came once more to John Jacobs’s. From him I had the account of the awful end of Joseph Cromwell. He had walked backward, accord- ing to his own account: three days he lost in drunk- enness ; three days he lay sick in darkness—no man- ifestations of God to his soul; and thus he died! We can only hope that God had mercy on hin, Compare this with what I have recorded of his labors and his faithfulness in another part of my journal. O, my soul, be warned! Brother Jacobs preached his funeral sermon, and gave a brief sketch of his 492 Character and Career of [1804. life, his fall, and his death. His text was “Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Aske- lon.” How appropriate the choice! I have traveled through great heat ; the people are generally sickly ; but I have got along one hundred and sixty miles since I left Baltimore; thank the Lord and kind friends ! : A High Compliment to the Local Preachers, Monday, 27, After the rain J. Jacobs rode with me to Joseph ‘Cresap’s, upon the north branch of the Potomac. We crossed this water three times,. and climbed over the mountain, but not without rain. Now I have left the traveling preachers to mind their own work, and I only make my appointments when I come to the places. The local preachers are my guides, and good guidés and good aids and good companions they are. Pa] Thirty-four Days’ Illness, Tuesday, October 9. After thirty-four days ot af- flictive illness I recommence my journal. I have been during my sickness at Harry Stevens’s. Kinder souls than this family I could not wish, but there were many of them and others continually coming and going. I had two doctors, but at last was hap- pily left to myself and Charles Conway. The fever subsided and left a cough. Asbury More Tender of Others than of Himself, Sabbath, 14. I preached. Riding brought on a daily fever and an inveterate cough. Brother What- coat being unable to ride at a greater speed than a 1804.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 493 walk, I exchanged my mare for his horse. We made more speed by this arrangement, but his great beast jolted me in such a manner as I could not have borne in health. We have lost the Kentucky Conference, and have about eleven weeks for our trip of fifteen hundred miles to Charleston. We were compelled to spend a week at John Beck’s. Death of Wilson Lee. Monday, 29. A summer’s day. We rode twelve miles, near to Washington. On Tuesday we gained Joseph Taylor’s, near the Old Fort. Wednesday we came to Union Town, seventeen miles. Thursday to the Crossings, twenty-four miles. Friday to Mussel- man’s, thirty miles, and on Saturday to Joseph Cresap’s to breakfast, making one hundred and twenty-five miles this week. Here we rested for the Sabbath. It is wonderful to see how Braddock’s road is crowded with wagons and pack-horses carry- ing families and their house stuff westward—to the new State of Ohio, no doubt. Here is a State with- out slaves, and the better calculated for poor, indus- trious families. O highly-favored land! I saw the death of Wilson Lee confirmed in the Frederick Gazette. He died at Walter Worthington’s, in Ann Arundel county, Maryland. Wilson Lee was born near Lewistown, State of Delaware. He was of a slender habit of body, but active, diligent, and upright in his walk, a pattern of neatness in his habits and attire, and full of gentleness, meekness, and love. His presence commanded respect; his zeal for God was great, and his labors successful and continually so. Few excelled him in the duties of a presiding 494 Character and Career of [1804. elder—it is not impossible that the toils of this im- portant office have been too great for his feeble frame. He had been twenty years and ten months in the Methodist connection. Vaid An Empty Purse, Tuesday, November 6. We breakfasted at Quaker Brown’s, and then came on to Winchester. In the evening I preached in George Reed’s house, and next day in the house of Elijah Phelps. On Thursday I rested and refitted. My body is in health, my soul established in grace. Saturday, 10. The weather has been unpleasant, and our clothing needed improvement and increase; above all, I wished to sée Daniel Hitt. My friends were solicitous for my presence at the quarterly meet- ing at Newtown. On the Sabbath day I preached feebly upon John i, 50. The Superintendent Bishop of the Methodist Church in America being reduced to two dollars, he was obliged to make his wants known. “Wandering Without Friends or Food.” Tuesday, 20. We came to Robert Smith’s—a very damp day. My mind was greatly engaged with God. On Wednesday, through deep damps, we came to David Thompson’s, at the upper or west end of Pow- hatan county. On Zhursday we crossed Appomattox at Clement’s bridge, near a mill and small town of the samename. Our route led through Amelia—soli- tary Amelia, with its worn-out fields of hundreds of acres, and old houses falling into ruins. We lost our way, wandering without friends or food, from seven in 1804. | Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 495 the morning until seven at night. We made about forty miles, and came, fatigued and hungry, to John Ryall’s. Here we had entertainment good enough for a president. N.0.] Friend Tomkins Expelled for Selling a Slave. Monday, December 3. 1 baptized three children of Squire Hinton’s. I breakfasted with them. We rode on to the Redfield ferry, upon Haw River. On Jwes- day morning we breakfasted fourteen miles ahead with Brother Reeves at the Hickory Mountain. I ordained William Masters a deacon. I dined and lodged with him. God has blessed him; his twin sons, converted at the same time, are both called to preach the Gospel. On Wednesday we came away twenty miles to Bell’s house and mills to see Alexander M’Caine. We had a night meeting, at which I saw extravagances frequently seen among our people. I believe, nevertheless, that the young people were sin- cere. On our way to Wiley Harris’s we stopped at Mr. Fuller’s to dine. On Friday I rode eight miles to breakfast with Ethelred Harris, and came on eighteen miles to John Randel’s. On Saturday I thought it well to rest. I have ridden since leaving Baltimore nine hundred and eighty-eight miles. At Randel’s I preached upon Gal. v, 9. In the evening I visited our former brother, my.friend Tomkins. He was expelled for selling a slave. The Lord is among the colured people in this family. & G] Four Hundred Gonversions in Four Days, Friday, 28. We came thirteen miles to Monk’s Corner to breakfast ; thence to the Ten-Mile House, fed our horses, and put off again and reached the 496 Character and Career of [1804. city. I think it may go for one hundred and twenty: miles from Rembert’s to Charleston. Saturday, 29. 1 had to rest indeed. I was sadly sore. Many letters came from various parts which I answered. Daniel Hall made me glad by his account of the Suffolk camp-meeting. In four days they cal- culate there having been as many hundreds converted to God. Onthe Sabbath day I preached at Cumber- land-street on John i, 50. I feel comforted in spirit. The sitting of this conference will not be in vain in Charleston. Two letters from Philadelphia announce to me that nearly one hundred souls have been con- verted in the different congregations since October. O, fire of the Lord, come down and consume the fire of contention in that unhappy place! I havea pleas- ing account also of the success of a camp-meeting in the State of New York. Ashbury Happy in the Solitary Woods, Monday, Fanuary 14, 1805. We came to Mr. Lee’s, dined, and came on, lodging at Lumberton, a town of about twenty families. On Zwuesday we had another cold ride to Fayetteville. At the African meeting-house I preached upon Heb. x, 38, 39. It was a time of feeling, but eleven o'clock was no hour for some folks. I was invited to preach in the State House, but it did not suit my mind at all. The object of our visit was a Methodist congregation and society. Home is home. Ours is plain, to be sure, but it is our duty to condescend to men of low estate, and therefore I felt justified in declining the polite invitation of the Rev. Mr. Finn to officiate in his meeting-house. 1805.] Bishop Asbury Mlustrated. 497 N.0.] Nearly Three Thousand Miles since the General Conference. - Friday, 25. We reached Newbern, twenty-six miles. On Saturday it rained. We have happily escaped it. We have made two thousand nine hundred and eighty miles since General Conference. We lodged at the Widow Jones’s. Her dear James is gone. He appeared to be as healthy as any man in Newbern, but went off, after a few days’ illness, of a pleurisy in the breast. Lord, and am I yet alive! Crossing Tar River. Monday, 28. We came away through a cold wind to Neuse Ferry. Swift Creek swam us, and the waters of the greater stream floated us across in a tottering canoe, the horses alongside swimming. A twenty- eight miles’ ride brought us to the Widow Richard’s to lodge. Arrived at the Tar River, we found it was blowing a storm. I was unwilling to cross. The flat was nearly filled with water shortly after we put off. A boat came out to take us up. Brother What- coat stood midleg in water. I had gained a plank and kept my feet dry, and it was well, as I had a touch of pleurisy, and had discharged blood yesterday even- ing. We came safe, and praised that God who in deaths oft hath delivered us. Brother Whatcoat preached at Washington in the evening. Val O'Kelly on Government, Monarchy, and Episcopacy. Wednesday, February 13. This day Brother What- coat preached at Joseph Moody’s. God has wrought powerfully at Blunt’s and Benn’s. They are prepar- ing a large house for public worship at the former place. General Wells and family have returned to 32 498 Character and Career of [1805. us. Willis Wells is coming back from following O’Kelly, besides twenty other members who had been drawn away. They profess to have had enough of him. Mr. O’Kelly has come down with great zeal, and preaches three hours at a time upon govern- ment, monarchy, and episcopacy, occasionally varying the subject by abuse of the Methodists, calling them aristocrats and Tories—a people who, if they had the power, would force the government at the sword’s point. Poorman! The Methodists have but two of their very numerous society members of Congress, and until these democratic times we never had one. I question if, in all the public legislative bodies in the seventeen United States, there are more than twenty members Methodists. No; our people are a very independent people, who think for themselves, and are as apt to differ in politics, (so do the preach- ers,) and divide at the hustings, as those of any other denomination ; and surely they are not seekers of the offices of this world’s profit or honor. If they were, what might they not gain in many parts of the United States? While one rails at us, others, who are always fond of fishing in troubled waters, take those who are already in our net, or, hunting on for- bidden ground, pick up our crippled game. See what believers their Church is composed of! N, G.] Conference Statistics, ’ Friday, March 1. We opened our yearly conference for Virginia at Edmund Taylor's, Granville county, North Carolina. We closed our sitting on Friday evening following. I have so frequently noticed the affairs of conferences, and they are so common, that I will only observe of this that we added fourteen 1805.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 499 preachers, and located four. Our business was con- ducted in great peace, and we had preaching as usual. Our increase is one thousand nine hundred members. Va] “I Hear, I See, I Feel.” Wednesday, 20. We came to Tandy Kee’s. Here we found more children coming to Christ. I was pleased and cheered to hear from the local preachers the great things God hath done in this circuit. Brother Mead is coming to preside, and I hope he will have a glorious camp-meeting in every circuit in the district. Amherst should, by all means, have another preacher. I hear, I see, I feel. Ma] City Congregations “Preached to Death,” Wednesday, April 10. Came to Baltimore. I have been greatly supported, but afflicted in my breast and heart ; it will not last long. I have made, I cal- culate, three thousand eight hundred and fifty miles from the 1st of Fune, 1804, to the 1ozk of April, 1805. Thursday was occupied in writing letters, etc. On friday I preached at Old Town. Sabbath Day, 1 preached in Light-street ; I had a very heavy congregation. I fear the people are preached to death. In the afternoon I visited the Africans ; my subject was Eph. iv, 1-6. Lord, look upon our city congregations, for they are a valley of dry bones! Tuesday, 16. I preached at Fell”s Point; it was a time to be remembered. I made my escape from Baltimore; low in religion. At Perry Hall I spent a night. The house, spacious and splendid, was newly painted, and the little grandchildren were gay and 500 Character and Career of [1805. playful ; but I and the elders of the house felt that it was evening with us, Del] Bishops Preaching before Judges and Counselors, Monday, 22. 1 rode to Milford; on Tuesday to Z. Hazzard’s ; rested, and came to Lewistown, where we called a meeting, and preached upon Rom. xiii, 11-14. I was assisted greatly, and the people were engaged. We lodged at Caleb Rodney’s. There may be in Lewistown one hundred and twenty houses and about eight hundred souls. We came thence to George- town, the seat of the courts of justice for Sussex county, containing about forty houses. As the court was in session.we were offered the house and desired to hold our meeting there ; the judges and counselors attended ; Brother Whatcoat spoke, and I followed upon Psalm xli, 10 ; we had a moving season. Pa] Difficult to Walk Officially Straight. Friday, May 10, We reached Philadelphia. Eighty miles in two days. Sarah Williams has left 4200 to the disposal of Bishop Whatcoat and myself. We ordered its application to the Chartered Fund. Thank the Lord! I am happy in the midst of the murmurs of many who are disappointed because I do not meet their strange expectations. O! what a wonder if I walk officially straight when so many would wish me to incline a little to the right or left, as their whims and fancies would lead ! N. JJ Mr, Leecraft Entertains Asbury, Thursday, 16. The roads heavy and damp. We came on to Brunswick, dined, and reached Drake’s 1805.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 501 for the night. Next day we dined with Thomas Morrell, at Elizabethtown, and lodged with Mr. Lee- craft at Newark. N. YJ Mr. Wesley's Jounal. Friday, 31. I read the latter part of Wesley’s Journal. How great and unceasing were his labors ; how various, comprehensive, and just are his observa- tions on men, women, modes, manners, doctrines, opinions, authors, and things! I have felt myself strongly urged to pray after every meal, where the families are in the habit of prayer; but I believe there are Methodist households that sometimes fall in my way who never pray in this way; and is this our poor success, after eighteen years of faithful labor? God be gracious to us, and to such families and unfaithful souls ! Conference at Ashgrove. Tuesday, Fune t1. We came twenty-five miles to Ashgrove, and next day opened conference. - On Tuesday, the 18th, the conference rose at noon. We had blessed harmony and order, and I never heard less murmuring about the stations, of which there were sixty-two upon the list, and two having no ap- pointments because of debility. The committee of business and the committee of addresses were very attentive to the affairs brought before them, and their labors were highly approved. By allowing the usual provision for the married preachers and their wives, (no supplies given for the children,) the conference was insolvent seventeen hundred dollars. There were about eight hundred dollars in money, and other 502 Character and Career of [1805. things, given to, and given away by, the confer- ence. We had a sacrament and a love-feast on the Sabbath, and I preathed ; the duty was performed by others at other times as usual; but there were no special marks of good done. Vid A Ride in Vermont, Thursday, 20. We came through Pownal, in Ver- mont, to Williamstown, the seat of the college—con- taining two houses, one probably sixty by forty feet, the other one hundred by fifty feet, four stories, of brick. We dined at Brother Kinney’s, near New Ashford. Thence we came away to Lanesborough and on to Pittsfield. We have passed through a well- cultivated land of wavy, well-watered surface, rough- ened with rocks, and broken often enough by hills. We have had two days and nights of heat equal to that of Georgia. Some thunder-showers cooled the air, and our ride yesterday was pleasant, though laborious, through Washington, Becket, and Chester, and along upon the head-springs of Agawam River, whose meanders we followed upon a turnpike road winding among the hills of the Green Mountain, equal to any | in the West. Forty miles brought us to Westfield, and we rested at Joel Farnam’s. Mr. Knapp invited me to preach in the Congregational temple; but I refused, for sundry reasons valid to myself. z Mass.) A Sad Disproportion, Sabbath, 23. I attended at a Baptist church. My first subject was Isa. lv, 6,7. My second, Acts xxiv, 18,19. It was hard labor indeed. I rode home with Nathaniel Phelps, in Tatnam. I asked an aged man 1805.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 503 at the meeting how many souls were computed to be in the town. Four thousand, was the reply. Not one fourth of these were at meeting. Here is room! It is a day of feeble things; and I am afraid that some of our friends instead of boldly facing them turn their backs upon their enemies, while others join them. Here Ralph Willston was well-known—once so full of fire, and what is he now? Oonn.] Some of the First Fruits, Saturday, 29. At Tolland quarterly meeting my subject was Jude 20, 21. It wasa gracious time. On the Sabbath we had love-feast and sacrament. I ordained Nathan Fox, John Norris, and James Hyde, deacons. These are some of the first fruits. Tolland revives. We had some living testimonies, and several souls are brought into the Church. At ten o'clock we went into an orchard adjoining the chapel. I spoke on Heb. viii, 10, rr. Brother Washburn’s text was: “Blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.” Many exhortations followed, and prayers, with power. There was a great cry,and the meeting held without intermission until night. Mass.] The Times Changed in Boston. Thursday, Fuly 4. I preached at N. Bogle’s meet- ing-house on John viii, 30, 31. We stopped Friday night at Waltham. On Saturday we reached Bos- ton. O heat and dust! I felt like Jonah without his gourd. Sabbath, 7. I preached in our complete little meet- ing-house, well-filled with hearers, from 1 Cor. v, 7, 8. It was an open time and gracious season; In the 504 Character and Career of [1805. afternoon Joseph Crawford spoke upon 1 Tim i, 15. The word of the Lord appeared to strike like sharp arrows. I feel asif Epaphras Kibby had been faith- ful in Boston. Dr, Coke's Marriage, Tuesday, 9. T received a letter from Doctor Coke announcing to me his marriage, and advising me that he did not intend to visit America again as a visitor, but rather as a sojourner (if at all) could work be appointed him to do. Marriage is honorable in all, but to me it is a ceremony awful as death. Well may it be so, when I calculate we have lost the traveling labors of two hundred of the best men in America, or the world, by marriage and consequent location. Conn] On the Wing Through Connecticut. Monday, 22. We came in heat to East Hartford, and lodged with Squire Pitkins. Zwesday, to New Haven ; Wednesday, to Stamford; Friday, to Peter Bennett's; New Rochelle. N.Y] Asbury “Bent on Great Designs for God.” We have ridden two hundred and thirty miles in six days, some of them awfully warm. The earlier fruits and productions of the year have been very abundant ; but without a rain, the latter fruits and grain must fail. I took a day to refit clothes and to write letters. At four o’clock I preached at Rochelle meeting-house ; the subject suited the state of the town ; the men were few, the women were many. The Lord was present with us. I lodged under the hos- 1805. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 505 pitable roof-of the Widow Sherwood. On my road hither I thought I saw what would make a good camp-ground ; I wrote to the presiding elder advising him of this circumstance. I am still bent on great designs for God, for Christ, for souls. Saturday brought us through excessive heat and dust to New York, I would say ; but we were barred its entrance by proclamation, having passed through New Haven, afflicted with the yellow fever. I stopped at George Suckley’s. Being a little unwell, I made the best use of the day I could by writing letters. NO] Through New Jersey. Monday, 29. I preached in our very neat chapel at Second River. We came to Elizabethtown, and on Tuesday to Joseph Hutchinson’s; and Wednesday brought us up to Burlington. Pa] “Then Away to the West.” Thursday, August 1. We found ourselves pro- claimed at Philadelphia as at New York. We di- rected our course to Mr. Manly’s seat, in the neigh- borhood of the city. I received several letters, from which I learn that there was great order preserved at Duck Creek Camp-meeting ; and that great good was done—three hundred souls were blessed! On Saturday 1 wrote letters. I redeem a day by hard riding for this service. I have bought, for one hun- dred dollars, a neat little Jersey wagon. On the Sabbath day I preached at Germantown on Isaiah xlix, 1, 2. I returned to Mr. Manly’s, and preached at five o'clock, at Mr. Manly’s ; this day appears to have been poorly spent. I am waiting for the minutes of 506 Character and Career of [1805. conference and my little wagon—then away to the West. A Cordial Reception and Christian Parting. Monday, 12. We came off with courage, passing through Lancaster, still unpropitious to Methodism. Seven miles beyond Father Musselman received us with a smiling countenance, a willing hand, and ready mind. We fed, and talked, and sang, and prayed, and parted in the Lord. We crossed Anderson’s ferry, the best I know on the river, and came into Little York. I stopped a day. O how kind our ’ friends are at their beautiful retreat! may Friend Pentz, and wife, and mother, be blessed of the Lord! Five Thousand at Oamp-Meeting. Monday, 19. The camp-meeting begins to-morrow at Short Creek, near the Great River. On Friday and Saturday we labored onward to Short Creek. I foundered my mare, and had many trials. Sunday, 25. I preached at the camp-ground; it was a moving time. On Monday I preached again. It was judged there were five thousand souls present to hear, and that one hundred souls were converted to God. ; I purchased a horse, and bent my course through Wheeling, on the banks of the Ohio; we crossed, and in the evening came to Morristown. Friday brought us to Muskingum; Saturday, we reached John Murphy’s, and on the Sadbéath I rested with Edward Teel. Joseph Crawford is sick. I have had little rest for six nights past. I have ridden, by com- putation, sixteen hundred and eighty miles since I left Baltimore. 1805.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 507 Ohio.] “O Thou Pattern of Celibacy, Art Thou Caught!” Monday, September 2. | preached at Richland chapel on I Peter v, 10. The subject was gracious, and so was the season. I find here the children of Meth- odists, according to the flesh, known elsewhere and long ago. Jonathan Jackson is married. O thou pattern of celibacy, art thou caught! Who can re- sist? Our married.man was forty years of age. He has taken to wife a Mrs. Roberts—a poor, pious widow. Joseph Crawford is very ill, I cannot go on. I have sent sixteen miles for a bottle of wine for him. We started away on Tuesday, and came to Judge Vanmeeter’s, at the Muddy Prairie, and dined and prayed. Brother Crawford still ill of a flux and fever. We stopped at Crouse’s Mill for the evening. Edward Tiffin’s brought us up on Wednesday. Thurs- day and Friday, Brother Crawford could not move on. Dr. Tiffin, the present governor of the State, administered some relief. I was happily employed in reading the Portrait of St. Paul, by the divine Fletcher. J preached at Chillicothe. We have ex- cessive heat. My mind is in great peace. A Four Hours’ Meeting at Philip Gatch’s, Monday, 9. We missed our path, and went out of our way. We intended for the Falls of Paint, and went to Bullskin, twenty miles. We lodged with Michael Hains, who rode with us eleven miles. We passed Franklin, on the way to the town of New- -market, containing eight cabins. We lodged at Ross’s, and were kindly and freely entertained. The roads were heavy ; but the wagon was a covering in 508 Character and Career of [1805. the heavy rain. The roads were dreadful to Williams- burg, Clermont county. We had a beach-swamp, “mud up to the hubs, stumps as high as the wagon- body, logs, trees. After all, we came safe. Wednes- day we lodged with Levi Rogers, once a traveling preacher, now a physician. We were greatly out- done, but we called a meeting at Williamsburg. Brother Whatcoat preached, and I exhorted. I saw several Jersey friends. On Thursday we rode on to Mr. Dimmitt’s, on the route to Little Miami. We have made one hundred miles in four days. I was made glad to hear of the revival of the work of God in the new settlements. The local ministry have shared in this labor with the traveling preachers. On friday we came down the east branch of the Little Miami to Judge Gatch’s. On Saturday we rested, and I read and wrote. On the Sabdath day we held a meeting of four hours at Philip Gatch’s. Brother Whatcoat’s subject was, “Repent and be converted ;” Joseph Crawford’s, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ ;” and F. Asbury’s, “I have no greater joy than this, that my children walk in the truth.” We felt quickened and comforted in God. Our route on Monday led through Columbia and the rich lands of the Miami, ‘William Lives sent one to meet and invite us to his house in Cincinnati; I gave them a discourse upon, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found,” etc. Ky. Conference Sabbath—Three Thousand Hearers, Thursday, 26. I visited Luke Hanson. Next day it rained, and I rested. On Saturday I stopped at Madox Fisher’s, in Lexington. I was of necessity 1805.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 509 in our old house on the Sadbath day ; we could not preach abroad, the weather was damp. My sermon was the echo of my text: ‘Cry aloud and spare not.” Joseph Crawford preached twice. On Monday I was unwell, but I rode to Jesse Griffith's, Scott county. On Tuesday we rested. Wednesday, October 2, We opened our conference in great peace ; there were about twenty-five mem- bers present. Six hours a day were ‘steadily occupied with business. The committees of claims and of ad- dresses did much work, and it was done well. I completed my plan for the coming year, and sub- mitted it to the presiding elders, who suggested but two alterations ; may they be for the best! On the Sabbath day 1 preached to about three thousand souls. On TYwuesday, after the rise of conference, I rode to Lexington; and on Wednesday to J. S. Hoard’s, Jessamine county. J was under affliction of body ; but perfect love, peace within, and harmony without, healed every malady. Tenn] Crossing the Mountains, Sunday, 20. J felt very unwell from cold taken. We passed Quorton’s Ferry, upon Great Nolachucky. In crossing the Paint Mountain, on Monxday, we rode up and walked down, and I sprained my ankle. N.O.] Asbury in Fellowship with a Presbyterian Minister, We came into North Carolina, and lodged with William Nelson, at the Hot Springs. Next day we stopped with Wilson, in Buncombe. On Wednesday I breakfasted with Mr. Newton, Presbyterian minis- ter, a man after my own mind. We took sweet 510 Character and Career of [1805. counsel together. We lodged, this evening, at Mr. Fletcher’s, Mud Creek. At Colonel Thomas’s, on Thursday, we were kindly received, and comfortably entertained. 8. G.] Preaches at Salem on Hosea x, 12, We came into South Carolina on Friday, and lodged with Captain Edwards; and on Saturday, at Staunton’s, Staunton’s Ferry, Seleuda River, Greens- ville district, we were at home. Sabbath, 27. At Salem I preached upon Hosea x, 12: “Sow to yourselves in righteousness,” etc. Ga,] A Marvelous Contrast, Saturday, November 9. We reached Sparta. The heat was great. From Kentucky to Sparta, five hundred and sixteen miles. Sunday, 10. I preached; my subject was 1 Peter iv, 17. Joseph Crawford gave two sermons. Monday, 11. We came to Matthew Harris’s, and next day I preached upon 1 Cor. xi, 30, 31. We drove back to Sparta that evening. I have ridden about fifty miles to preach to about twice as many souls. I would have gone down to the State, but appointments had not been made, and Brother Craw- ford grew very unwell. I judged it proper for him to go through a course of physic, and the weather was cold, and I wanted a coat. I only lamented that I could not see my poor black sheep at Buffalo Creek; but was glad to hear that £¢hzopia still stretched forth the hand of faith and prayer. I feel very serious about the supplies of preachers for the South Carolina Conference: some are sick, some are settling in life—men of feeble minds. But let the 1805.] Bishop Asbury TMlustrated. 51 Head of the Church see to his own work—it is not mine. Why should I despond? What was the work thirty-seven years ago, when there were but two local preachers—one in New York, and one in Maryland ? Now there are two thousand local, and four hundred traveling preachers. 8, 0] The Highest Steeple, Sunday, December 8. I was in great heaviness through manifold temptations; yet I preached in Cumberland-street in the morning, and at Bethel in the afternoon. I was happy and had great openings. I fear sometimes that my commission will wear out among one description of people here. Religion of a certain kind must be very valuable, since we spend so much to support it. There must be a prodigious revival in the Independent society—a building of theirs will cost fifty, or, perhaps, one hundred thou- sand dollars. There is a holy strife between its members and the Episcopalians who shall have the highest steeple ; but I believe there is no contention about who shall have the most souls converted to God. Northern Letters—Dr. Chandler's Wonderful Report. Thursday, 12. We pursued a blind road to the ferry. We came on to Murray’s, and continued along to Mr. Coleman’s, a German. Next day we reached Rembert Hall. We had hot weather—man and beast felt the burden. Some of my northern letters have come in. They bring good news: camp-meetings at Albany, New York; at Lebanon, Vermont; in the New Hamp- shire districts ; all successful. But O, the wonders 512 Character and Career of [1805. of Doctor Chandler’s report! He says his authority bids him say that at Duck Creek camp-meeting five hundred souls; at Accomac camp-meeting four hundred ; at Annamessex chapel, in the woods, two hundred; at Somerset, Line chapel, one hundred and twenty ; at Todd’s chapel, Dorset, two hundred ; at Caroline quarterly meeting, seventy-five ; all, all these profess to have received converting grace ! Asbury’s Observations on Haweis’s Church History. Monday, 16. I wrote to Elders Broadhead and Chandler. This week writing letters and: reading Haweis’s Church History. By this work I learn it is the author’s opinion that the evangelists were chief, superintending, episcopal men ; aye, so say I, and that they prescribed forms of discipline, and systematized codes of doctrine. After the death of the apostles it would appear that the elders elected the most excellent men to superintend. This course was doubtless the most expedient and excellent. Every candid inquirer after truth will acknowledge, upon reading Church history, that it was a great and serious evil introduced when philosophy and human learning were taught as a preparation for a Gospel ministry. “Hitherto,” says our author, in his obser- vations on the close of the second century, “not a man of eminence for science or letters had appeared in the Church. All of this time, whose works have come down to us, give thereby no evidence of human attainments—they bear the stamp of simplicity.” Yet by these the Gospel had been supported in its purity, spreading it by their labors to the ends of the earth ; and these were they who helped to fill the bloody ranks of the noble army of martyrs. 1805.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 513 Asbury in the Fortieth Year of his Ministry. On the Sabbath Day I preached a funeral sermon for Abijah Rembert. There is a revival in the society here; so much for camp-meetings. Iam now in the fortieth year of my labors in the ministry. Thirty-four years of this time have been spent in America, counting from October 28, 1771, to October 28, 1805. Twenty-six Sermons during Conference. Thursday, 26. I rested and read, and on Friday rode into Camden. I was favored with a number of letters giving accounts of revivals of religion. Satur- day employed my pen. Saddbath day I preached. Monday, 30. We opened our conference. Fanuary 4, 1806. We closed our conference in great peace and order. No murmurs about the stations from preachers or people. Since we came here we have had twenty-six sermons, one of which I preached upon 1 Tim. iv, 12: “ Let no man despise thy youth.” Brother Whatcoat ordained the deacons. We see no immediate fruit of our labors, but doubt- less we shall hear of it following our many prayers night and day. N. 0] A Somber View of Matrimony. Wednesday, 8. We crossed Well’s ferry after wait- ing an hour. A snow-storm kept with us from Pe- dee to Rockingham. Here the people would have assembled, but there was a wedding afoot. This is a matter of moment, as some men have but one during life, and some find that one to have been one too many, j 33 514 Character and Career of [1806. Rapid Traveling, Sabbath Day, 12. Unwell. Nevertheless, I took the pulpit. Monday morning we made a start for Wilmington, and came to the Widow Anderson’s, forty-six miles. Next day we took the round-about way by the bridges, and made forty-five miles. To ride ninety- one miles within day-light, in two days, kept us busy, but we are safe in Wilmington. My affliction upon my breast was great. Frightened Horses—God Preserves, Thursday, 23. We came into Newbern, twenty- three miles. The prospects here are good. The providence of God was manifested in our preserva- tion to-day. Our horses took fright while in the wagon, and were off like fire. They happily struck, and locked a wheel on a poplar. The swingle-tree snapped. No more. Less damage, if any, could scarcely have been done. Va,] A Healthful Increase in Virginia Conference, Friday, February 14. Virginia Conference began in Norfolk, progressed peaceably, and ended on Thursday. We had preaching morn, noon, and night. Large congregations and many souls engaged. We have reason to hope that nearly one hundred souls were under the operations of grace. I ordained two elders aud Brother Whatcoat twelve deacons. We have a rich supply of preachers for every circuit, and an addition of two thousand three hundred and ninety- eight in numbers, exclusive of the dead, expelled, withdrawn, and removed. 1806. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 515 Md] —- Preliminary Measures for a Delegated General Conference, March, 14. Our conference began in great peace. Friday, 21. The stations were read off, and all con- cluded in great peace. Never had we a better con- ference in Baltimore. An answer was given to Dr. Coke’s letter, I fear in a manner that will not please him. An order was passed that the azswer should be presented to all the annual conferences, . It was also recommended to the annual conferences to con- sider on the propriety of having a select delegated Conference. The Eastern, Western, and, Southern conferences were counseled to take such measures as they, in their wisdom, might see best to produce a more equal representation from their several bodies to the General Conference. Va] Asbury at Accomac, Friday, April 4. We came to William Downing’s, Virginia. At Downing’s chapel I spoke on Rev. ii, 10. After sermon we rode to Accomac, and lodged at Mr. Seymour's. Here Joseph Crawford preached in the evening. Sunday, 6. That no time might be lost we started away at eight o'clock in the morning to Brother Watt’s, twenty-seven miles. My subject was Isaiah xxxili, 14-16: “The sinners in Zion are afraid,” etc. I preached in the court-house, Accomac. It was an alarming season. The cold was great, and the winds are high. No rain—it is judgment-weather—O Lord, arise ! Del.) From Milford to Wilmington. Wednesday, 9. I preached at Milford, and then rode on to Dover and took up Father Whatcoat. On the 516 Character and Career of [ 1806. way he was taken with a fit of the gravel, and I was afraid would die. I preached in Dover next day. We afterward rode to Duck Creek Cross Roads in a snow-storm. Here the people are all very fervent, and the children praise the Lord. Joseph Crawford . preached, Friday, 11. We came in, on as cold a day as one would wish who was fond of extremes, to Wilmington, forty miles. Ah, but I must preach! Well, I gave them a sermon at seven o'clock. The Africans here have a house to themselves, of stone, and equal in size to that of the whites. Pal From Baltimore to Philadelphia—Conference, Saturday, 12, brought us to Philadelphia. From Baltimore, round by the Eastern Shore, hither, has cost us, by computation, five hundred and fifty miles. I have been greatly supported in body and mind ; glory be to God! Sabbath, 13. I preached at St. George’s upon 2 Pet. i, 12-14. At the Academy I spoke on James v, 7, 8. Many of the preachers were already in the city for conference. In the sitting of conference we had so much irregular, desultory work that we went on slowly. We had sixty-three members present for traveling, besides those to be received in locations, and as supernumerary and worn out. Dr. Coke’s letter was answered by a committee of ten preachers. Monday, 21. Conference rose. Of seventy-six preachers stationed, all appeared to be pleased but two or three; but neither they nor any one else can know the difficulties I had to encounter in the ar- rangement of the stations. Brother Whatcoat was 1806.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 517 left very ill at Dover; perhaps he is dead. Eight deacons and six elders were ordained. I preached three times. I hope many souls will be converted in consequence of the coming together of this confer- ence—having had great peace in the societies, and sound, sure preaching three times a day. NJ] Asbury at Sharptown and Salem. Tuesday, 22. We came to Gloucester Point, and on to Carpenter’s bridge. Here we have a Quaker- Methodist meeting-house. I preached upon 2 Peter i, 4. Heavy as I was, I had some openings. I visited my old friends Thomas and Margaret Taper. At Sharptown on Wednesday; no appointment. I walked to the meeting-house. In the burying-ground I saw the graves of some of the faithful. Among these that of John Venneman, once a traveling preacher. We rode to John Frith’s, Salem. No appointment. N. YJ Great Camp-meeting at Philips’s Manor. Wednesday, May 7. I viewed the ground at Philips’s Manor, selected for our camp-meeting. In the even- ing we came to Sherwood’s Vale, and at night I went to the camp-ground and looked on at the people busy clearing the ground, fixing the seats, and building the stand. : Thursday, 8. I rested and wrote. Friday, 9. Began with a storm, but the people came through it, bringing their tents and baggage, weary with walking. Sunday, 11. I preached. It was an open season. Companies, here and there dispersed, kept up the exercise of singing and prayer through the day and 518 Character and Career of [1806. far into the night. The Brooklyn tent was all prayer the greater part of the time. There were between eighty and one hundred offi- cial members present, about one thousand Method- ists, and some presumed about six thousand souls were on the ground at different times. The people were so dispersed, and there was such a continual coming and going, I had no means of judging. I judge two hundred souls were made the subjects of grace in its various operations of conviction, conver- sion, sanctification, and reclamation. We had great order and great power throughout. Glory! glory! An Important Paper. Wednesday, 14. We came to New York. Friday, 16. The conference commenced its sitting, and rose on Thursday. We sat seven hours in each day in great love, order, and peace. A paper was read setting forth the uncertain state of the superin- tendency, and proposing the election of seven elders from each of the seven conferences, to meet at Balti- more July 4, 1807, for the sole purpose of estab- lishing the American superintendency on a surer foundation. This subject will be submitted to the consideration of all the conferences. The answer to Dr. Coke’s letter by the conference of New York was read, to be submitted to all the conferences. I preached three times and ordained three African deacons. We had preaching in the Park as well as regularly in the meeting-houses, and a day of fasting and prayer for the health of the city, the suc- cess of our conference labors, and the prosperity of Zion. 1806. ] Bishop Asbury IMlustrated. 519 Conn.] “Sister Thatcher.” Sunday, 25. I preached at New Haven. After meeting I visited Sister Thatcher, rejoicing in perfect love. Perhaps she is near her end. Since the 16th of April, 1805, I have, according to my reckoning, traveled five thousand miles. Everlasting glory be to my all-sufficient God! Monday, 26. I dined at Meriden, and lodged at Mr. Pitkins’s, East Hartford. Tuesday, 27. I reached Thompson, forty-five miles, faznt, yet pursuing. Thursday, 29. We dined at Mr. Boyle’s, Needham, and rode on to Waltham. A few young people are under the operations of grace here, among whom are two children of George Pickering. We rested here on Friday, and I preached on Phil. i, 8-11. Mass] A New Chapel in West Boston. Sunday, Fune 1. I preached in Boston. As usual with me in this place, it was an open season. Some souls were powerfully moved, myself for one. Monday, 2. J took a walk to West Boston to see the new chapel, eighty-four by sixty-four feet. The upper window frames were put in. Me] Camp-meeting in Maine, friday, 6. We went toward Buxton, to attend the camp-meeting. At two o'clock we came on the ground, There were twenty preachers, traveling and local. Saturday, 7. I preached, and on Sunday, also. Some judged there were about five thousand people on the ground. There were displays of Divine power and some conversions, 520 Character and Career of [18c6. N. Hi] New England Conference, Thursday, 12. We opened the New England Con- ference, and went through our business with haste and peace, sitting seven hours a day. The York Conference address respecting the superintendency was concurred in, and seven elders for this conference elected accordingly. Vt] “Why Did I Not Visit this Country Sooner?” ' Saturday, 21. Brought us over the heights of Onion River to Russel’s bridge, thence to Bolton and Williston, dining at Brother Bradley’s. After dinner we rattled along to Burlington on Lake Champlain. Here I saw a grand college—equal in exterior to that of New Haven—a state-house, meeting-house, and other elegant buildings. We passed Shelbourne into Charlotte, on the lake, and put up with Mr. Fuller. We have made forty miles to-day. I am resolved to be in every part of the work while I live to preside. It will be the best plan to bring on the sessions of all the conferences as early as possible, that there may be time given to all the preachers to go to work in the dawn of spring. The New England Conference ready for General Conference. should meet about the middle of April, and thus be On the Sabbath I preached in an upper room at Fuller’s to about four hundred people. My subject was Luke iv, 18, 19, and God bore witness to his own word. Why did I not visit this country sooner? By moving the conferences to an earlier period in the year it might have been done, and may yet be done. What appeared to me to be impossible, I see now is very practicable. 1806.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 52: NY “Not Made for Such Scenes.” Wednesday, Fuly 2. We came to New York. Thad left my little traveling wagon to be sold at the Plains. On Thursday | came on to Aaron Hunt’s. Joseph Crawford came over the ferry with me; when about to part, he turned away his face and wept. Ah! I am not made for such scenes ; I felt exquisite pain. NI] Fourth of July. At Newark I lodged with Brother Leecraft. I felt for, prayed with, and spoke to all the members of this family. Friday, Fuly 4. Noise, parade, seventeen rounds, and then to breakfast. I stole away quietly from this bustle toward Rockaway. Pa] Death of Bishop Whatcoat. Tuesday, 8. J was on the road at five o'clock. After writing some letters, I preached at Kingston at five o’clock on Acts xx, 24. On my return I found a letter from Doctor Chandler declaring the death of Bishop Whatcoat, that father in Israel, and my faithful friend for forty years—a man of solid parts; a self-denying man of God. Who ever heard him speak an idle word ? when was guile found in his mouth? He had been thirty-eight years in the min- istry—sixteen years in England, Wales, and Ireland, and twenty-two years in America; twelve years as presiding elder, four of this time he was stationed in the cities, or traveling with me, and six years in the superintendency. A man so uniformly good I have not known in Europe or America. He had long been afflicted with gravel and stone, in which afflic- 522 Character and Career of [18c6. tions, nevertheless, he traveled a great deal—three thousand miles the last year. He bore in the last three months excessively painful illness with most exemplary patience. He died in Dover on the 5¢% of uly, and his mortal remains were interred under the altar of the Wesley Dover church. At his taking leave of the South Carolina Conference I thought his time was short. I changed my route to visit him, but only reached within a hundred and thirty miles ; death was too quick for me. Del.] Preaches at North East, friday, 11, I came to Wilmington ; and on Satur- day to North East. On the Sadbéath I preached. Monday brought me to Perry Hall, and on Tuesday I reached Baltimore. Md.) A Thankful Sickness, Sunday, August 3. 1 am here at John Davenport’s. I have been sick, and laid up since 7hursday last. Copious bleeding, emetics, cathartics, and bark have had their turns. The fever, since the day before yesterday, has left me. I have been providentially favored with a good physician, kind friends, and temperate heat; the Lord hath done this well. I might have been taken among strangers and have had more pain. Recollecting I had never preached in the neighborhood, and feeling a little unwilling to pass another dumb Saddath, we called a solemn as- sembly, as much as if we had come to the funeral of one of the family ; my subject was 1 Kings viii, 35-39. I was rapid for about an hour. They are faithfully warned ; let them look to it. 1806. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 523 Va,] Diversity, Charity, Unity. Tuesday, 19. Friendship and good fellowship seem to be done away between the Methodists and Pres- byterians ; few of the latter will attend our meetings now. Well, let them feed their flocks apart; and let not Judah vex Ephraim, or Ephraim, Judah ; and may it thus remain, until the two sticks become one in the Lord’s hands! Tenn,] Asbury's Generous Nature Llustrated. Saturday, September 20, the Western Conference commenced its sitting, and ended on Monday. The Mississippi missionary preachers could not be spared, they thought, from their work, and therefore did not come. We had great peace. There are fourteen hundred added within the bounds of this ‘conference. Of the fifty-five preachers stationed all were pleased. In unison with the preceding conferences, an answer was given to Dr. Coke’s letter. We had preaching at noon and night, and good was done. The breth- ren were in want, and could not suit themselves, so I parted with my watch, my coat, and my shirt. By order of the conference I preached a funeral discourse on the death of our dear friend Whatcoat from John i, 47-50; there were not far from two thousand peo- ple present. N. G.] Over the Mountains, Wednesday, October 1. I preached at Samuel Ed- ney’s. Next day we had to cope with Little and Great Hunger Mountain. Now I know what Mills Gap is, between Buncombe and Rutherford. One of the descents is like the roof of a house for nearly 524 Character and Career of [1806. a mile. I rode, I walked, I sweat, I trembled, and my old knees failed. 8. 0.1 Wesley’s Sermons Wake the Powers of Asbury's Soul. Monday, 20. I rode to Rembert Hall, eleven hun- dred and twenty miles from Philadelphia, in health, and, I trust, in holiness. Glory to God! Tuesday, 21. Reading closely. Wednesday, Thurs- day, Friday, and Saturday, reading the eighth and ninth volumes of Wesley’s Sermons ; they wake the powers of my soul. Abstinence and prayer. I feel my mind in great peace, and a stayed trust that the Lord will provide for the South Carolina Conference. Let the preachers go, as they have done, to their farms and their merchandise, yet I am greatly confi- dent of the success of the cause of God in these parts. Bound for Charleston. Monday, 27. 1 am bound for the city of Charles- ton. We sought lodging at two houses at Bruton’s Lake. We found it at Mr. Martin’s. On Zuesday we made twenty-five miles to Murray’s Ferry. At Long Ferry, to which we were obliged to steer, we were detained five hours through the swamp; heat and mosquitoes plenty. We rode twenty miles after sundown to get to Mr. Hatchett’s, at Monk’s Cor- ner; the family being sick, we went to Mr. Jones’s, who kindly entertained us; we made fifty miles to- day, and came to lodgings about ten o’clock at night. On Wednesday we came through heat and heavy roads to Charleston, where we found all things well and in good order. Lewis Myers is an economist. 1806. ] Bishop Asbury Illustrated. 525 How Employed in Charleston, Sunday, November 2. At Cumberland-street church I preached in the morning, and at Bethel in the afternoon. Monday, 3. Neither unemployed, nor triflingly. If we call for social prayer seven times a day there are none to complain ; the house is our own, and profane people board not with us. My time is spent in read- ing, writing, and receiving all who come, whites and Africans ; I am sometimes called away in the midst of a letter. God the Lord is here. I am happy that we have finished our new church, and bought an acre of ground; should I live long, I shall see a house in the Northern Liberties of Cooper River. On Tues- day I wrote a letter to Dr. Coke, giving a general statement of the late work of God upon our continent. Sunday, 9. 1 preached again in Cumberland church, on 2 Cor. iv, 17, 18. I spoke under serious depres- sion of body and mind ; in the afternoon I gave them a discourse at the Bethel church upon Phil. i, 27-30. I have read many pages of Church History, written twelve long letters, preached four sermons, and re- ceived all visitors, and spoken to them on the con- cerns of their souls. Ga] “T Shall Take Oare of These Youngsters,” Sabbath, 16. The morning was cold, and few hear- ers; my subject was Rom. xiii, 2. AMigh time indeed. In the afternoon I spoke again on Heb. xi, 25, 26. I wrote to Daniel Hitt on things sacred. I am grieved to have to do with boys. Hugh Porter had written to this town about a station, and added to 526 Character and Career of [1806. the mischief he had formerly done. I shall take care of these youngsters. And behold, here is a bell over the gallery! and cracked too; may it break! It is the first I ever saw in a house of ours in America; I hope it will be the last. Asbury's Independence. Sabbath, December 7. At Tait’s meeting-house I preached upon Luke xii, 40. It was a very cold day, and the house was so open we had little satisfaction. I visited Charles Tait, a judge; I did not present myself in the character of a gentleman, but as a Christian and a Christian minister; I would visit the President of the United States in no other char- acter. True, I would be innocently polite and respect- ful, no more. vk Rumpus—Lawyers and Doctors in Arms,” Thursday, 25. Our new chapel at Liberty is thirty by fifty feet. I gave them a sermon in it on 1 Peter iv, 3-5. Lodged at Joshua Moore’s. On Friday I found Myles Green preaching; I ordained him im- mediately, and then gave a discourse on Heb. xii, 1, 2. After meeting I came on to Sparta. I received a dozen letters from the north. More good news from Doctor Chandler. The work of God is wonder- ful in Delaware. But what a rumpus is raised! We are subverters of government, disturbers of society, movers of insurrection. Grand juries in Delaware and Virginia have presented the noisy preachers ; lawyers and doctors arein arms ; the lives, blood, and livers of the poor Methodists are threatened. Poor, crazy sinners, see ye not that the Lord is with us? . 1806.] Bishop Asbury Illustrated, 527 Conference at Sparta, Monday, 29. We began our conference. The sub- ject of the delegated conference was adopted, with only two dissenting voices ; these members, however, cheerfully submitted, and one of the dissentients was elected a member. All was peace respecting the stations. I was called upon to deliver a funeral dis- course for Bishop Whatcoat. We have fifty travel- ing preachers in this conference this year, and an in- crease of one thousand members. 8, GJ “Redeeming the Time,” On Thursday, Fanuary 1, 1807, we set out for Columbia, dining in the woods on our route ; it was excessively cold. JI preached in Mr. Harrison’s house in the evening. Next day we came to Cam- den. Saturday brought us to Rembert Hall. We have been redeeming time by riding two hundred and twenty miles in five days. I must now answer thirteen letters in two days. My body is afflicted, but I am kept in perfect love. NG] “Qold, Sick, and Faint.” Friday, 16, brought us through Lumberton, in North Carolina, lodging with Peter Gautier. We found ourselves obliged to ride on the Lord’s day through the cold to Wilmingtorf, crossing two rivers in a snow and hail storm. I have ridden four hundred and twenty miles in ten days and a half—cold, sick, and faint; it was as much as I could well bear up under. 528 Character and Career of [1807. At Newbern Conference—Statistics, Saturday, 31, brought us to Newbern ; we had an awful storm of rain. February i. I preached on Sunday at eleven o'clock. Wednesday, 4. We have used great diligence in our conference labors, and have been faithful to the pul- pit. I preached to-day on 1 Cor. ii, 5. On the Sad- bath I preached to the whites on John iii, 16, and to the Africans on Eph. vi, 5-8. Much might be said ; I will only observe that we have sixty-seven preach- ers, and have added three thousand one hundred and fifty-nine to this conference bounds. We have since our sitting here known that there are twenty whites converted and as many blacks. These blessings on our labors pay all expenses, reward all toils in the midst of suffering and excessively cold weather. Va.) “A Out of Dry Bread on the Oold Ground,” Friday, 13. We came to Suffolk. I had sent on a messenger and found a congregation, to whom I spoke a few words on 1 Pet. iii, 10-12. We felt a present God. At Norfolk I preached for them, and at Portsmouth. On Monday we came away to Gen- eral Wells’s, Isle of Wight county, and next day called upon Willy Blunt on our way to Birdsong’s. Wednes- day brought us through a proper storm to Petersburg ; the streets were not easily pagsable. We lodged on Thursday night in Richmond at the house of Widow Tucker ; the road hither nearly miredus. On Frzday we lodged at William Smith’s; these are friends to camp-meetings and gracious souls.