LIBRARY AX PRINCETON, N. J. DONATION OF 8 A M U K L A a N E W , 0 t PHI I. A I>E L P H I A . PA. /,.««• J -Z — J „ fly 3 T" Jk^... JZ^.S^6/ BX 8495 .G3 B36 1830 Bangs, Nathan, 1778-1862, The life of the Rev. Freeborn Garrettson V 4 THE LIFE OP THE llKV. FREEBORN GARRETTSON COMPILED FROM HIS PRINTED AND MANUSCRIPT JOURNALS, AND OTHER AUTHENTIC DOCUMENT-. BY NATHAN BANGS, D. D. ItkI tfiey that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament ; and they tha many to righteousness, as the stars for ever and ever," Daniel sti, 3. SECOND EDITION, REVISED AND CORRECTED- NEW-YORK, ULISHED BY J. EMORY AND B. WAUGH, AT THE CONFERENCE OFFICE, 14 CROSBY-STREET. I /. Collord, Printer. 1830. I>El>ICATlOA rO MRS, CATHARINE GARRETTSON. Madam, — To whom can I so appropriately dedicate this account of one endeared to you by so many ties, a^ to yourself, who for so long a time knew and appreciated his worth, enjoyed his society, and now so sincerely mourn your loss ? May that benignant Being, who so mercifully supported and directed your late excellent and venerable husband through a long life, and finally gave him such a complete victory over death, spread around you the wing of his mercy, and safely conduct you to ''glory an* Immortality." With Christian affection, I am your humble servant, Nathan Bang* .Yew-York. August I, 1820. PREFACE Very soon after the death of Mr. Garrettsoa it was made known to me by the bereaved widow, that he had expressed a desire that herself and daughter and myself should take the charge of his papers, and make such a disposition of them as we might consider to be fit and right. After taking a cursory survey of them, it was resolved that Mrs. Garrettson and her daughter should first examine them, make such alterations or emendations as they might think expedient, and transmit them to me to be prepared for publication in the manner I might judge most suitable and proper. Whatever reluctance I might feel to undertake a task so delicate, I could not refuse to comply with a request coming from one to whom I felt myself under many obli- gations for numerous tokens of his friendship, backed as it was by the wishes of his bereaved widow and daughter, and more especially as he had, previously to his death, frequently suggested the same thing to me. It is generally known that Mr. Garrettson published air nccountof his experience and travels in the year 1791. Thir account embraces a period of about thirty-nine years of his natural life, and sixteen of his spiritual pilgrimage. To this printed journal he had appended several manuscript notes. These, which appear to have been written near the close of his life, give a more detailed account of some of the 1* PREFACE incidents glanced at in his printed journal. They hate been carefully examined, and such parts of them as wen considered most important, either to throw additional light on his history, or to make the incidents more interesting and useful, have been incorporated in the present memoir. The original manuscript journal of his travels in Nova Scotia, and in some parts of the United States after hi?, return from that province, was likewise consulted, and collated with the printed journal as far as it extended, with some letters from his friends in that country, his cor- respondence with Mr. Wesley, Dr. Coke, Mr. Asbury. and others, together with some anecdotes furnished by his pious daughter. From these documents several extract^ have been made, some entire letters inserted, and after collating his printed and manuscript journals, it was found •xpedient, in order to make the narrative the more com- plete, to weave the two together. During some periods of his life, Mr. Garrettson, it ap pears, either made no record of his exercises and labours , of did not preserve it. These chasms have been filled up either from the records of the church, from informa- tion furnished by a member of the family, or from my own recollection. In giving an account of his early experience, and somr of the first years of his labours in the " ministry of recon- ciliation," I thought it most advisable to give it chiefly in his own words, as thereby the genuine sentiments of bis heart, the exercises of his mind, and the blessing of God ipon his labours, would be the more accurately and forci- bly expressed, — reserving to myself, however, the privilege of adding a word or sentence to make the sense clearer. PREFACE. VJl and substituting one word for another, without either altering the meaning or changing the style. From the month of March, 1824, to June, 1826, he kept a very regular account of the manner in which he employed his time. That the reader might see the influ- ence of pure religion on the heart and conduct of a man who had been for so many years devoted to the service oi God, and who expected so soon to appear in the presence of his Judge, I have made copious extracts from this part of his journal ; and I humbly trust that they will tend to make that religion which shone so steadily and brightly in the life of Mr. Garrettson, appear above all other thing - the most desirable and necessary. For the account of his remaining days, of his last sick- ness, and of his death, I am indebted partly to informa- tion received from Mrs. Garrettson and other friends who attended him in those solemn moments, and partly to my own knowledge. These are the materials from which the following me- moir ha^ been compiled. It has been my endeavour to furnish the reader with a faithful narration of the inci- dents of his life, and of the various transactions in which he was engaged, as well as to exhibit an exact portraiture of Mr. Garrettson both in his private exercises and public labours. Though the critical reader will doubtless disco- ver many defects, it is hoped not more than may find a reasonable apology from the circumstances under which £ have performed my task. Other duties have had an imperious claim on my time and attention, and necessa- rily prevented my bestowing that labour on the work which otherwise I might have done. viii PKEFACF- I have only to say in conclusion, that should tije readt find his faith in God confirmed, his love to Him and desirt to be more entirely devoted to His service increased by reading this narration of the many instances of the dis- plays of Divine providence and grace in behalf of a fellow being, — as I cannot but think will be the case, — he will add another testimony in favour of the utility of Christian biography, and the writer will feel that he has "not •aboured in vain, nor spent his strength for naught," in furnishing to the surviving friends of Mr. Garrettson, and to the church generally, this imperfect account of his experience and labours, and of his triumphant entry in!* the world of spirits. N. Bangs TVw-rbrfc, August]. 1820. S • CONTENTS. LvTRODCcriox, ..... Page 5— IT, CHAPTER I. His ancestors— Childhood— Education— First Methodist preachers— His brother John— Illness— Death of his father— False security— His awakening and conversion, ...... 17 — 3i CHAPTER II. His happiness in God— Endures severe temptations — Frees his slaves- Reflections on slavery — Attends a class meeting — Declares what God had done for him — First speaks in public — Suffers persecution — Holds evening meetings, and God blesses his labours — Conversation with the parish priest — Strong exercises respecting becoming a travelling preacher — Makes the Irial — Then tempted to desist— Makes trial of his gift again, . 31—47 CHAPTER III. Commences a regular travelling preacher — Severely exercised — Much assisted — Holds a vratch night — Goes to Fairfax circuit — Preaches in the parish church — Great manifestation of the power of God — Attacked by a Presbyterian minister on the doctrine of perfection — Farewell sermon — Lodges with a Quaker — Attends conference, . . 47 — 53 CHAPTER IV. Deer creek conference — Goes to Brunswick circuit, Virginia — Happy seasons in preaching on the way — Arrives on his circuit, and finds a lively people — An officer interrogates him on the subject of fighting — Confidence in God increased — Great consolation in preaching — Tempting offers, which he- resists — Whites and blacks much affected — Refuses the state oath — Escapes a. threatened imprisonment — Goes to North Carolina — Reflections on Chris- tian perfection — Experiences perfect love, and preaches this doctrine— Narrowly escapes being shot, . . . . . 53 — 62 CHAPTER V. From the conference in Loesburg, goes to the Peninsula, Md. — Persecu- lon against the Methodists — Its causes — Perseveres in his work — Beatei; and bruised — Blessed effects of this opposition in his own soul — Preaches the word with great effect — Enters the state of Delaware, and preaches the word with great success — Goes to Kent Island — Death cf his brother John- Remarkable instance of conversion — Meets with opposition at Dover, but succeeds in preaching — Rescues a man who was attempting to hang him- self—Conversion of an old persecutor — Not an enthusiast — Sinners flock le Christ — Delivered from the hand of the civil officer — Preaches and forms a society in Quantico— Vindicates infant baptism— Opposition meetings un- successful — Good effects of the gospel — Providential interview with a strange- woman — Work of God greatly prospers — Remarks on silent meetings- Great inward conflicts — Remarkable answer to prayer — The arm of the Lord made bare in the conversion of souls — The wicked persecute — Escapes un- hurt — Silences an ignorant disputant — And escapes imprisonment, 62 — 100 V CONTENTS, CHAPTER Vf. Leaves the Peninsula, and at the request of Mr. Asbury goes to. Philadel- phia — Society there in a depressed state — British army had just left the citj — Citizens returned to their employments — Success in New-Jersey — Con- version of an old man — Remarkable account of a young woman, 100 — 10 i CHAPTER VH. Returns to the Peninsula — Introduction of Methodism into Dorset county —Peculiar exercises, and happy deliverance — Escapes an attempt to takt ]iis life — Taken by a mob — Imprisonment of J. Hartley — Maltreated and im - prisoned — Happy in his own soul — Is set at liberty — Strange visions of the night, .... . 104— -IP. CHAPTER VIII. Disputes respecting the ordinances — Mistakes corrected — Breach healed ind harmony restored — Mr. Asbury's account of this affair — Goes to Balti- more — Thence to the Peninsula — Singular dream, . 118 — 12 ' CHAPTER IX. Goes to Little- York — Curious account of the conversion of a man and hi- wife — Effects thereof on the people — Goes to Colchester — Curious accoun' of a deluded woman — Persecution rages — Visits a distressed man — Opposed by some soldiers who were quartered in the town — Powerful effects of the vord preached — Attends conference in Baltimore where unanimity pre- vails — Great distress in Virginia — Rev. Mr. Jarret friendly to the Method- ists, . 124—13'. CHAPTER X. Travels extensively through Virginia and North Carolina— Political diln- rulties — Goes to Little York — Preaches in the fields — Preaches on the doc- rine of perfection — Remarkable dream — Remarks on infant baptism— Greatly encouraged to persevere — Visits and rejoices with his old friends — Mourns over the stupidity of the people — Attends conference in Baltimore — \ccount of a blind man — Interesting account of a young female — Attends t" f he people of colour — Conversion of a great opposer — Meets Dr. Coke — Reflections on Mr. Wesley's plan for the organization of a church — Goes t< • all a conference of the preachers at Baltimore, . . 133 — 146 CHAPTER XI. State of the societies at the conclusion of the war — Destitute of the ordi- nances — Mr. Wesley solicited to supply this deficiency— Finally consents— Ordains Dr. Coke, who arrives in America, in company with Richard What coat and Thomas Vasey — Christmas conference — Mr. Asbury ordained n superintendent, and Mr. Garrettson and others, elders — He volunteers foi Nova Scotia — Pastoral letters — Embarks for Halifax — Stormy passage- Kindly received at Halifax, preaches and forms a society — Makes a tour into ; he country, and preaches with success — Account of the Allenites — Letter to Mr. Wesley — Mr. Wesley's answer— Visits Liverpool — Society doubler by his labours — Commencement of Methodism in Liverpool — Visits Shel- burne — Kindly treated by the rector of the parish — Society increases amidst opposition — Returns to Liverpool — Thence to Halifax — Correspondence with Mr. Wesley, Dr. Coke, and Bishop Asbury — Anecdotes and re$etf» CONTENTS. ions — Leaves Nova Scotra for Boston— Origin of Methodism in Boston- Mr. Garrettson preaches there— Passes thence to Providence— Newport- New- York — Philadelphia — to Baltimore, and attends conference, 147 — 182 CHAPTER XII. Attends conference in Baltimore — Elected superintendent of the societies in British America — Strong solicitations to accept the office — Reasons for declining" — Appointed to the Peninsula — Contrast between the present arc! former state of the people here — Methodism generally prosperous — But somf delusions — Their cause — Closes his labours in this place, % 183 — 18^ CHAPTER XIII. Proposes visiting New-England — Stops in New- York — Takes charge of the northern district — Enters on his work with twelve young preachers unde: his oversight — General state of the country — Correspondence with Mr- Wesley — Second tour through his district — Death of Mr. Cook — Curious conversation — Origin of Methodism in Ashgrove — Dangerously wounded— Commencement of Methodism on Long Island — Mr. Garrettson visits there — Obstacles to the progress of truth — Attends the first council in Baltimore — Journal of a tour through a part of New-England to Boston — Attends con- ference in New- York — Comparative view of the work in this part of the country, . . . . . . . 189—219 CHAPTER XIV. End of the printed journal — Division of his district — Visits Albany — Meets with Bishop Asbury — Attends conference — His testimony of Bishop Asbu- ry's excellences — Account of the Shakers — Tour into the new settlements — State of the country — Work of God revives — Providential escape from dan- ger — Visits the eastern part of his district — Meets Bishop Asbury, and con- verses with him on church government — Attends general conference it; Baltimore — Mr. O'Kelly's division — Its effects — Visits his friends in Mary- land — Returns to New- York — Passes through his district — His marriage, % 220—234 CHAPTER XV. Mr. Garrettson stationed in Philadelphia — On the New- York district — Settles his family in Rhinebeck — Prosecutes his labours — Erects a house- Goodness of God displayed towards him — Situation of his mansion — His cares multiply — Dedicates his new house to the Lord — Several stations he filled — In 1809 visits his old friends at the south — His account of this tour- Remarkable preservation — Visits Baltimore, Washington city, and various- places on the Peninsula of Md. — Attends camp meetings, &c, 234 — 2oS CHAPTER XVI. Appointed to the New- York district— Some account of his duties — His sermon on the union of fear, hope, and love— General conference in 1808 — Attends the first delegated conference in 1812 — His views on some parts of' our ecclesiastical economy — Appointed a conference missionary — His letter to the Rev. Lyman Beecher — State of that controversy — Mr. Garrettson'? views of the subject — His charity sermon — Not pleased with being returned a. supernumerary — Domestic enjoyments — Makes a journey to Albany, Sche- nectady, Troy, &c— Returns home— Solemn reflections— Makes anothe; CONTENTS southern tour— Visits New- York, Trenton, Burlington, Philadelphia, W/. ■::ington, Abington, and his native place— Reflections on the state of the peo- ple — Goes to Baltimore, and participates in a revival of the work of God i" •hat city— Returns to Rhinebeck, .... 253— 2 r - CHAPTER XVII. Attends the New- York conference — Secession of a number from the church in New- York — His feelings in relation to that unhappy affair — Makes a short lour to the north — Thence to the eastward — Passes through New- York — Thence on toMiddletown, Conn. — Thence to New-London, where he enjoys much peace— Visits Norwich and preaches — Conversation with a pious lady — Revival of religion — Grieved with beholding the ravages of Socinianism — Goes to Providence, R. I., and preaches — Probable check to the Socinian heresy — Visits Boston and Lynn — Origin of Methodism in Dorchester, Mass. — Visits Cambridge — Returns to Hartford —Thence to Rhinebeck — Domestir 'elicity — Makes a second tour — Affliction — Reflections thereon — Arden? desire for the salvation of souls— Returns through New- York city to Rhine- beck— Revival of religion there — Attends conference, . 269—279 CHAPTER XVIII. Mr. Garrettson holds on his way— Engaged in building a house of worship at Rhinebeck— Sets off to attend general conference; — Last visit*o his na- thre place— Some of the transactions of the conference — English delegates- Friendly intercourse and correspondence between the English and American conferences — His views on some points of church government — Attendj i he New- York conference — Makes a western tour — Reflections — Novatiar. schism — Testimony against sabbath breaking — Solemn reflections — Attends a camp meeting — Retires to his mansion — Private meditations — Visits some of his old friends in Westchester county — Notice of Governor Jay — Death of Mrs. Carpenter — Her character — Visits Kingston — Death and character of Mr. Sands — Death of Mr. C S Death of old friends in New- York —Reflections on a call to the ministry — Death and character of Mrs. Suckley —Visits Philadelphia — His zeal for missions — DeMmess to the world — At- •ends the New- York conference — Preaches and publishes his semi-centen- nial sermon — Extracts from the sermon — Returns to Rhinebeck — Last eafry :n his journal, 280—313 CHAPTER XIX. Continued a conference missionary — Instance of his affection — His las' ietter to Mrs. Garrettson — Attends conference at Troy — His health and ac- tivity — Presentiment of his approaching dissolution — Visits New- York — His last sermon — His sickness, and death — His remains taken to Rhinebeck, ind buried — His death a loss to the church — General outlines of his charac- ter — Simplicity his distinguishing feature — This gave him success in his mi- nistry — Inspired him with persevering zeal — Induced him to forsake all foi Christ's sake — Gave him liberal views — Attached him to his brethren — II bhone in domestic life — In the order of his household, his hospitality, his placability, and in the pulpit — His perseverance — Veneration for the sacred Scriptures — Dependence on Divine aid — Variety and usefulness of his ^reaching — Infirmities common to man — His unblemished reputation for nearly fifty-two years — Was the oldest Methodist travelling preacher — Colluding remark, . . . « . . 31 3- - 3 M INTRODUCTION. Mr. Garrettson was among the earliest Methodic preachers that were raised up in America. Being active and zealous from the commencement of his ministerial career, his life and labours are intimately connected with the rise and progress of Methodism in this country, and his name will therefore ever be associated with those self deny- ing men who were instrumental in beginning and carrying forward that blessed work of God which has since spreac; so rapidly and extensively over this continent. On this account, it may not be amiss to introduce him to the notice of the reader by a sketch of the commencement of the work in this country. The first Methodist society in America was formed in the city of New- York, in the year 1766, by a few emigrants from Ireland. About the same time, however, that Mr. Philip Embury and his associates were laying the foundation fo: such permanent good in this city, a similar society was formee in Frederick county, Maryland, through the instrumentality of Mr. Strawbridge, another local preacher from Ireland. Those obscure emigrants, having been connected with the Methodists in their own country, and having tasted of the comforts of religion, not finding on their arrival here spiritual associates with whom they could "take sweet counsel," were induced to assemble by themselves in a private room. Here, by the earnest entreaties of Mr? Hick, a pious matron, Mr. Embury very reluctantly com- menced preaching the doctrines of the gospel as taught by the Rev. John Wesley, and God blessed his labours Some, indeed, have denominated Captain Webb the founder of Methodism in America. This I believe to be a mistake. Though he might have been in America before Mr. Embury and his associates arrived, we have no authentic account of his preaching, much less of his 2 6 INTRODUCTION. attempting to form a society, until after Mr. Embury begar, in New- York. To ascertain the truth in respect to whom this honour belongs, the writer took much pains some year? since by conversing with several of the aged members oi the society, all of whom have since been called to their reward in heaven, who distinctly remembered the first rise of the society, and took a grateful delight in rehearsing the circumstances attending its formation and progress. But though Capt. Webb, who was a converted soldier attached to the British army, which was at that time sta- tioned in Albany, may not be considered the founder oi Methodism in this country, he was one of its most zealous and successful promoters. Hearing of the society in New- York, and of the difficulties with which they had to con- tend, he came to their assistance, introduced himself to Mr. Embury, and appeared before the assembly in his military costume as a preacher of righteousness. To be- hold a military officer in the character of an ambassador of Jesus Christ was a matter of no small surprise to the citizens who attended the meetings : but when they heard his addresses in the name of his divine Master, coming, as they did, warm from a heart inflamed with the love of God, their curiosity was exchanged for a conviction of the truth, and a surrender of the heart to God. In consequence of an increased attention to the word preached by Mr. Embury, and Capt. Webb, the room in which they assembled became too small. They therefore hired a rigging loft in William-street which they fitted up for a place of worship. Here they continued for a time to build " each other up in their most holy faith." While Mr. Embury remained in the city, working with his hands for a living, and preaching to the people on sabbath, at- tending prayer meetings, &c, Capt. Webb made excursions upon Long Island, where he preached Jesus Christ unto the people with peculiar energy and effect. It was not long, however, before the rigging loft in William-street was found too small to accommodate all INTRODUCTION. 7 nho wished to asemble with them. To remedy this in- convenience, they began to think seriously about building a chapel. To this undertaking, however, there were many difficulties. The members of the society were mostly poor, few in number, and but little known among the wealthy and influential portion of the citizens. Being encouraged, however, by the exhortations of Mrs. Hick, a woman of deep piety and great intrepidity of mind, they made an effort to erect a house for the Lord. Meeting with more favour than they had anticipated, they finally succeeded in purchasing some lots in John-street, on which they built a house, 60 feet by 42, in the year 1768, calling it, in honour of the founder of Methodism, Wesley Chapel. While this house was in progress, T. T., in behalf of the society, addressed the following letter to Mr. Wesley : "New- York, 11th April, 1768. " Rev. and very dear sir, — I intended writing to you for several -weeks past ; but a few of us had a very material transaction in view. I therefore postponed writing, until I could give you a particular account thereof : this was the purchasing of ground for building a preaching house upon, which, by the blessing of God, we have now concluded. But before I proceed, I shall give you a short account oi the state of religion in this city. By the best intelligence I can collect, there was little either of the form or power of it, until Mr. Whitefield came over thirty years ago; and even after his first and second visits, there appeared bul little fruit of his labours. But during his visit fourteen or fifteen years ago, there was a considerable shaking among the dry bones. Divers were savingly converted ; and this work was much increased in his last journey about fourteen years since, when his words were really like a hammei and like a fire. Most part of the adults were stirred up great numbers pricked to the heart, and by a judgment ot charity, several found peace and joy in believing. The consequence of this work was, churches were crowded, and subscriptions raised for building new ones. Mr! 8 INTRODUCTIO.XC WhitefieJd's example provoked most of the ministers to a much greater degree of earnestness. And by the multi- tudes of people, old and young, rich and poor, Mocking U> the churches, religion became an honourable profession. There was now no outward cross to be taken np therein. Nay, a person who could not speak about the grace of God, and the new birth, was esteemed unfit for genteel company. But in awhile, instead of pressing forward, and growing in grace, (as he exhorted them,) the generality were pleading for the remains of sin, and the necessity of being in darkness. They esteemed their opinions as the very essentials of Christianity, and regarded not holiness either of heart or life. " The above appears to me to be a genuine account of the state of religion in New- York eighteen months ago, when it pleased God to rouse up Mr. Embury to employ his talent (which for several years had been hid as it were in a napkin) by calling sinners to repentance, and exhorting believers to let their light shine before men. He spoke af first only in his own house. A few were soon collected together and joined into a little society, chiefly his own countrymen, Irish Germans. In about three months after, brother White and brother Souse from Dublin, joined 'hem. They then rented an empty room in their neigh- bourhood, which was in the most infamous street in the city, adjoining the barracks. For some time few thought a worth their while to hear : but God so ordered it by his providence, that about fourteen months ago captain Webb, barrack master at Albany, (who was converted three years since at Bristol,) found them out, and preached in his regimentals. The novelty of a man preaching in a scarlet coat, soon brought greater numbers to hear than the room could contain. But his doctrines were quite new to the hearers: for he told them point blank, 'that all their knowledge and religion were not worth a rush, unless their sins were forgiven, and they had " the witness of God's Spirit with theirs, that they were the children of God. 1 ' * INTRODUCTION. 9 This strange doctrine, with some peculiarities in his person, made him soon taken notice of; and obliged the little society to look out for a larger house to preach in. They soon found a place that had been built for a rigging house, 60 feet in length and 18 in breadth. " About this period Mr. Webb, whose wife's relations lived at Jamaica, Long Island, took a house in that neigh- bourhood, and began to preach in his own house, and several other places on Long Island. Within six months, about twenty-four persons received justifying grace, nearly half of them whites, — the rest negroes. While Mr. Webb was (to borrow his own phiiase) * felling trees on Long Island,' brother Embury was exhorting all who attended on Thursday evenings, and Sundays, morning and evening, at the rigging house to flee from the wrath to come. His hearers began to increase, and some gave heed to his report, about the time the gracious providence of God brought me safe to New- York, after a very favourable passage of six weeks from Plymouth. It was the 26 th day of October last, when I arrived, recommended to a person for lodging; I inquired of my host (who was a very reli- gious man) if any Methodists were in New- York ; he answered, that there was one Captain Webb, a strange sort of many who lived on Long Island, and who sometimes preached at one Embury's, at the rigging house. In a few days I found out Embury. I soon found of what spirit he was, and that he was personally acquainted with you and your doctrines, and that he had been a helper in Ireland. He had formed two classes, one of the men and the other of the women, but had never met the society apart from the congregation, although there were six or seven men, and as many women, who had a clear sense of their ac- ceptance in the Beloved. " You will not wonder at my being agreeably surprised in meeting with a few here, who have been and desire again to be in connexion with you. God only knows the weight 10 INTRODUCTION, of affliction I felt on leaving my native country, But J have reason now to conclude God intended all for my good, Ever since I left London, my load has been removed, and I have found a cheerfulness in being banished from a!j near and dear to me, and I made a new covenant with my God, that I would go to the utmost parts of the earth, . provided he would raise up a people, with whom I might ,oin in his praise. On the great deep I found a more earnest desire to be united with the people of God than ever before. I made a resolution that God's people should be my people, and their God my God : and bless his holy name, I have since experienced more heartfelt happiness than e"ver I thought it possible to have on this side eternity All anxious care about my dear wife and children is taken away. I cannot assist them, but I daily and hourly com- mend them to God in prayer, and I know he hears my prayers, by an answer of love in my heart. I find power daily to devote myself unto him; and I find power also to overcome sin. If any uneasiness at all affects me, it is because I can speak so little of so good a God. " Mr. Embury lately has been more zealous than formerly ; the consequence of which is, that he is more lively in preaching; and his gifts as well as graces are much in creased. Great numbers of serious persons came to hear God's word as for their lives ; and their numbers increased so fast, that our house for six weeks past would not con- tain half the people. " We had some consultations how to remedy this incon- venience^ and Mr. Embury proposed renting a small lot of ground for twenty-one years, and to exert our utmost en* deavours to build a wooden tabernacle ; a piece of ground was proposed ; the ground rent was agreed for, and the lease was to be executed in a few days. We, however, in the mean time, had two several days for fasting and nvayer, for the direction of God and his blessing on our proceedings ; and providence opened such a door as we INTRODUCTION. 11 bad no expectation of. A young man, a sincere Christian and constant hearer, though not joined in society, not, giving any thing toward this house, offered ten pound* to buy a lot of ground, went of his own accord to a ladv who had two lots to sell, on one of which there is a house that rents for eighteen pounds per annum. He found the purchase money of the two lots was six hundred pound? which she was willing should remain in the purchasers* possession, on good security. We called once more on God for his direction, and resolved to purchase the whole. There are eight of us who are joint purchasers : among whom Mr. Webb and Mr. Lupton are men of property. I was determined the house should be on the same footing as the orphan house at New-Castle, and others in Eng- land : but as we were ignorant how to draw the deeds, we purchased for us and our heirs, until a copy of the writing is sent us from England, which we desire may be sent by the first opportunity. " Before we began to talk of building, the devil and his children were very peaceable : but since this affair took place many ministers have cursed us in the name of the Lord, and laboured with all their might to stop their con- gregations from assisting us. But He that sitteth in the highest laughed them to scorn. Many have broken through and given their friendly assistance. We have collected above one hundred pounds more than our own contributions ; and have reason to hope in the whole we shall have two hundred pounds : but the house will cost us four hundred pounds more, so that unless God is pleased to raise up friends we shall yet be at a loss. I believe Mr. Webb and Mr. Lupton will borrow or advance two hundred pounds, rather than the building should not go forward ; but the interest of money here is a great burden — being seven per cent. Some of our brethren proposed writing to you foi a collection in England : but I was averse to this, as I well know our friends there are overburdened already. Yrr INTRODUCTION, so far I would earnestly beg : if you would intimate our circumstances to particular persons of ability, perhaps God would open their hearts to assist this infant society, and contribute to the first preaching house on the original Me- ihodist plan in all America, (excepting Mr. Whitefield's orphan house in Georgia ;) but I shall write no more on this subject. " There is another point far more material, and in which I must importune your assistance, not only in my own name, but also in the name of the whole society. We want an able and experienced preacher; one who has both gifts and grace necessary for the work. God has not. indeed despised the day of small things. There is a real work of grace begun in many hearts, by the preaching oi Mr. Webb and Mr. Embury ; but although they are both useful, and their hearts in the work, they want many qualifi- cations for such an undertaking; and the progress of the gos- pel here depends much upon the qualifications of preachers. " In regard to a preacher, if possible we must have a man of wisdom, of sound faith, and a good diciplinarian one whose heart and soul are in the work ; and I doubl not but by the goodness of God such a flame will be soon kindled as would never stop until it reached the great South sea. We may make many shifts to evade temporal inconveniences ; but we cannot purchase such a preacher us I have described. Dear sir, I entreat you for the good of thousands, to use your utmost endeavours to send one over. I would advise him to take shipping at Boston, Liverpool, or Dublin, in the month of July or early in August ; by embarking at this season he will have fine woather in his passage, and probably arrive here in the month of September. He will see before winter what progress the gospel has made. 11 With respect to money for the payment of the preach- er's passage over, if they could not procure it, we would sell our coats and shirts to procure it for them. INTRODUCTION. 13 I most earnestly beg an interest in your prayers, and trust you and many of our brethren, will not forget the church in this wilderness. "I remain with sincere esteem, Rev. and dear sir, " Your very affectionate brother and servant , tf T T " In answer to the earnest request contained in this letter, Mr. Wesley sent over Messrs. Boardman and Pilmoor, and ,£50 sterling, as a " token of brotherly love." They were cordially received by the people here, and soon much en- couraged in their work, as the following letter from Mr Pilmoor will fully show : 14 Philadelphia, Oct. 31,1769. " Rev. sir, — By the blessing of God we are safely arrived here, after a tedious passage of nine weeks. We were not a little surprised to find Capt. Webb in town, and a society of about one hundred members, who desire to be in close connexion with you. 1 This is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes.' " I have preached several times, and the people flock to hear in multitudes. Sunday evening 1 went out upon the common. I had the stage appointed for the horse race for my pulpit, and I think between four and five thousand hearers, who heard with attention still as night. Blessed be God for field preaching. When I began to talk of preaching at five o'clock in the morning, the people thought it would not answer in America : however, I re- solved to try, and I had a very good congregation. " Here seems to be a great and effectual door opening in this country, and I hope many souls will be gathered in. The people in general like to hear the word, and seem to have ideas of salvation by grace." After continuing a short time in Philadelphia, Mr. Pilmoor made an excursion to Maryland, where he found Mr Strawbridge, and preached with some success. He 14 INTRODUCTION. likewise visited some parts of Virginia and North Carolina ; and witnessing the happy effects of his labours in the awakening of sinners, he formed some societies. In all places which he visited, he found people eager to hear the word, and kind to those who came to preach it. From hence he returned to Philadelphia, and soon came to New- York, while Mr. Boardman went to Philadelphia; thu^ commencing, in the early stage of their labours, a regular change from place to place. The society in New-"Vork. under the labours of Mr. Embury and Capt. Webb, was in a flourishing state on the arrival of Mr. Boardman, whose godly simplicity and evangelical preaching were made a peculiar blessing to many. In this prosperous state of the society, Mr. Pilmoor entered upon his charge over them. As he thought it most prudent to make a fair trial before he transmitted his account of the state of things to Mr. Wesley, he deferred writing until April 24, 1770. on which day he wrote the following letter : — " Our house contains about seventeen hundred hearers. About a third part of those who attend get in ; the rest are glad to hear without. There appears such a willingness in the Americans to hear the word, as I never saw before They have no preaching in some of the back settlements. I doubt not but an effectual door will be opened among them ! O ! may the Most High now give his Son the hea then for his inheritance. The number of the blacks that attend the preaching affects me much." From these representations of the state and disposition of the people in America, Mr. Wesley was induced to concert measures to send them over more labourers. Ac- cordingly the next year, 1771, Mr. Francis Asbury and Mr. Richard Wright, who volunteered their services, were dismissed under the blessing of God for the help of theit brethren in America. They set sail from Bristol, Sept. 2 1771, and landed in Philadelphia the 24th of Oct. following They were received with great cordiality, "the people INTRODUCTION. 15 hardly knowing," says Mr. Asbury, " how to show their love sufficiently, bidding us welcome with fervent affec tion, and receiving us as the angels of God." * According to a notice in Mr. Asbury 's Journal, vol. iii,. p. 109, it appears that when he arrived in this country, he found three hundred Methodists in New-York, two hun- dred and fifty in Philadelphia, and a few in New-Jersey, probably in all about six hundred. Those in Maryland do not appear to be included in this number. On the arrival of Mr. Asbury, he very properly judged that they could not expect a general spread of the work of God, unless they extended themselves into the country towns and villages. He accordingly led the way, by which the pros- pectsof usefulness opened before them in every direction. By the faithful exertions of Mr. Asbury and those who were associated with him, the work of God extended among the people, and it was soon perceived that more help was much needed to supply the calls of the people. Indeed the people in many places, particularly in the middle and southern provinces — for so these United States were then called, being a part of the British dominions — were but poorly supplied with the word and ordinances of Christ, and pure religion was generally at a very low ebb. A taste for experimental religion had, it is true, been created in some hearts, by the powerful preaching of the celebrated Whitefield, who, some time previously to the arrival of the Methodist missionaries, had travelled through the country, and preached with his usual zeal and success. The fields, however, at this time, " were ripe for the har- vest ;" and a faithful account of the state of affairs here being transmitted to Mr. Wesley, in 1773 Messrs. Thomas Rankin and George Shadford volunteered their services and came over to the continent : and the following year Messrs. James Dempster and Martin Rodda were added to he number. To Mr. Rankin Mr. Wesley committed the generai ^uperintendency of the work, and he called the first regn- INTRODUCTION. 'ar conference in the city of Philadelphia, m the month of June, 1773.* At this conference there were returned on the minutes 10 travelling preachers, and 1160 member 1 : of society. From the printed minutes of the conference for 1774, it appears there were 14 preachers who com- menced their itinerant labours in America, viz. William Watters, Abraham Whiteworth, Joseph Yearbry, Philip Gatch, Philip Ebert, William Duke, John Wade, Daniel RufT, Edward Drumgole, Isaac Rollins, Robert Lindsay. Samuel Spragg, Richard Webster, John King ; and three English preachers, viz. Thomas Rankin, Francis Asbury. and George Shadford. The numbers in society this year were 2073. Mr. Boardman, who was a man deeply devoted to God, and a sound able minister of Jesus Christ, and Mr Pilmoor, it appears had both returned to England. From the above list of preachers it will be perceived thai the Lord of the harvest had raised up labourers in thh country to cultivate his field. This sketch brings us down to the year 1775, at which time, according to the printed minutes, there were 19 preachers stationed, and 3148 members in society. It. was during this year that Mr. Freeborn Garrettson, who is to be the subject of the following memoir, was brought to the saving knowledge of the truth, and commenced his ministerial labours. I shall therefore close this introduc- tion by remarking that the above short account of the commencement of Methodism in this country, compared with what it now is, shows by what feeble and compara- tively inefficient means. God often accomplishes His work in the souls of men ; and that all this is done according to an inspired declaration, that " no man should glory in man, but he that glorieth must glory in the Lord." *This date corresponds with that in the printed minutes; bu. nccording to Mr. Aebury's Journal, this conference was held Jftly 14, 1773, and Mr. Drew, in his Life cf Dr. Coke, in an extract fr'nn Mr. Rankin, agrees with Mr Asbury- THE LIFE OF THE REV FREEBORN GARRETTSON CHAPTER L His ancestors — Childhood — Education — First Methodist preaci that I could ; among which were the writings of Mr. Ilervey, The Travels of True Godliness, and Alleine's Alarm to the Unconverted ; for as yet I had not seen any of Mr. Wesley's publications, nor conversed on religiou. subjects with any of the Methodists, except the one above mentioned. " As I lived a retired life, I frequently read, prayed, and wept, till after midnight : and often withdrew to the wood- and other private places for prayer. In some measure my 24 LIFE Of THE name was already cast out as evil, though I was ashameo to let any one know the exercises of my mind, or that J used secret prayer : and in order to conceal it when in company, I have frequently grieved the blessed Spirit, by joining in trifling conversation ; for I was much afraid oi being thought a hypocrite. The Holy Spirit still pursued me, and I attended strictly to the duties of the family over which I was placed. I had as yet heard very few Method- ist sermons ; and the devil strove very hard to keep me from going among those people. Some time after, my late well tried friend and brother, Mr. Francis Asbury, came to our country : I went to hear him one evening at R. W.'s. The place was crowded, but I got to the door and sat down. He had not preached long before I sensibly felt the word, and his doctrine seemed as salve to a festering wound. I heard him with delight, and bathed in tears could have remained there till the rising of the sun, the time passed so sweetly away; I was delightfully drawn und was greatly astonished to find a person go on so flu- ently without his sermon before him. I suppose hundreds of thoughts passed through my mind. But I returned home with gladness, fully persuaded that he was a servan? of God, and that he preached in a way I had not heard before. I followed him to another preaching place, and fixing my attentive eye upon him, I found him to be a, workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word. He began to wind about me in such a manner that I found my sins in clusters, as it were, around me : and the law in its purity, probing to the very bottom, and dis- covering the defects of my heart. I was ready to cry out . f How does this stranger know me so well V After sei mon was ended, I wished not to speak to any one, but returned home with my mind very solemnly affected. " Methodism at this time began in some measure to spread ; for the blessed God touched the hearts of several young men, converted their souls,, and called them to REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 25 preach, which appeared to be a new thing in our country Among the first were W.Watters, R.Webster, two brother.- by the name of Rollins, and several others who began to exhort ; they were zealous, their labours were blessed and persecution arose : the cry began to be, enthusiasm- false prophets. Indeed, though I was under conviction and had felt the drawings of the Spirit, I had my fears that matters were going too far, though I did not dare opeii my mouth against the work. " My father began to be troubled about me, and came to see me. We sat up talking till nearly midnight. ' I have no objection,' said he, ' to your being religious ; but why would you turn from the Church V I replied, I have no intention to leave the Church, but whenever persons be- come serious, they are called Methodists, and their, names are cast out as evil. After we parted I found great ten- jkrness of heart, and shed many tears in private, and many promises occurred to my mind. I loved the Methodists, and yet the enemy of my soul kept me at a distance fron; them. Unbelief and pride deprived mo of the comforts ol assurance. " In April, 1773, my brother John was taken dangerous!} ill, so that his life was despaired of. One Lord's day many of our relations and friends came to see him, expect- ing every minute that he would breathe his last. I was greatly concerned on account of his soul, which seemed to be just launching into eternity, and I feared that he was unprepared. I went round to the back part of the bed. and kneeling down, I prayed earnestly to the Lord to have mercy on his soul. After I had done praying I perceived his lips were moving, but could not hear a word that ho spoke, till I put my ear close to his mouth, (apparently he was just going,) and heard him say, ' Lord, thou know- est I am unprepared to die, have mercy on me and raise me up, and give me a longer space, and I will serve thee ; thy Spirit has often strove with me, but I have reject?*.: 20 LIFE OF THE thee,' &c. Thus did he plead with the Lord for a consi- derable time. He knew, and so did I, the moment of tinw when the Lord answered prayer, and granted him a longer space. Immediately I rose from my knees, and told the waiting company they need not be uneasy, for the Lord would raise him again : instantly the disorder turned, he fell into a doze, and within a few days was able to walk about his room. After his recovery, I conversed with him on the subject, and he told me that he saw death approaching, that he was summoned to appear in the world of spirits, and that hell was his doom. I knew, said he, when a reprieve in answer to prayer was sent, the blow averted, and the tender thread lengthened, on condition that I would give the remainder of my days to the Lord. A few years after he was really changed in heart ; he lived two years and eight months happy in the service of God, and died a witness of perfect love. M " About this time the Lord laid me under his afflicting hand, and I was brought nigh unto death. During the time of my illness, I was in a very strange way ; I lay on my bed singing praises to God without any dread of death ; I felt my mind easy ; I thought if I was removed I should go to heaven; I was willing to die; I did not know my sins were forgiven ; but I felt a strong hope, though I was not Cully acquainted with the plan of salvation. Who can tell what state my soul was in ? I was a good Churchman,* but a poor Methodist. Blessed be the name of the Lord ! He delights not in the death of a sinner, for he raised me up again ; but still the enemy of my soul strove to keep me from among God's dear despised children. " The August following, it pleased the Lord to take in; father into eternity ; — surely it was painful to lose the ten- derest of parents. From my earliest knowledge of hi^ family, consisting of about twenty in number, I do not * Religion in the Church of England was at this time at a verj low ebb in Mar viand. REV. F. CARRETTSON. 27 remember ever to have heard an oath sworn either by white or black ; and it was a rare thing for him to correct either children or servants, though still there was a trembling at his word. I frequently visited him in the time of his ill- ness, (for he had a long and tedious sickness,) and he seemed very fond of my company : I have reason to believe he went happy out of this dangerous world. Being now left in the entire charge of a family, and the settlement of my father's business mostly devolving on me, I was sur- rounded with many cares and troubles, which were no help to the affairs of my salvation. The devil strove hard to drive away all my good desires, but still I attended con- stantly to my secret devotions, though at times cold enough. It was not long after the death of my father that I had a particular interview with the new parish minister, who was a very clever man, of a moral character, and much respect- ed in the place. I was a constant attendant on his ministry, and frequently conversed with him on divine subjects. Ho told me the Methodists carried matters too far, that a man could not know his sins were forgiven, and that all we might expect in this life was a hope springing from an upright life. This doctrine exactly tallied with my experience,, and was food for my fallen nature. I soon fully agreed with him in sentiment, and plead that no man could know his sins forgiven in this world. The grand enemy began now to exercise my mind in another way ; namely, to seek a literary qualification for the ministry in the Church. This hung upon me for a considerable time ; and I applied my- self to reading and study for that purpose, often consulting my new counsellor. The Spirit of the Lord at times strove very powerfully, and I was frequently afraid that all was not well with me, especially when I was under Methodist preaching. To these people I was drawn : but it was like death to me ; for I thought I had rather serve God in any way than among them ; while at the same time something within would tell me they were right. Being amazingly 23 LIFE OF TUE agitated in mind, I at length came to this conclusion, to dve up my former pursuits, bend my mind to the improve- ment of my worldly property, and serve God in a private manner. I now sat out in full pursuit of business, with an expectation of accumulating the riches of the world. " During the time of my self-secure state, I had the form of godliness, attended the Church constantly, and some- rimes went to hear the Methodists : [ fasted once a week- prayed frequently every day in secret places, endeavoured to attend strictly to the sabbath, often reproved open sin. and denied myself of what the world calls pleasure. I was so fast set in my way, that I thought I should certainly go to heaven ; and if at any time I was overtaken by sin, I would endeavour to mend my pace and pray more fre- quently. I cannot say I was always without doubts ; for often, under Methodist preaching, my poor foundation vvould shake, especially under the preaching of dear bro- ther George Shadford, and I would scarcely recover my hope for many days; then I would be tempted to think ihey were a deluded people, and I would go among them no more : but still I was drawn again and again. I stood in a manner between the children of God and the world AVhen I was with the people of God I would endeavour to confute them ; and when I was among their enemies, I plead their cause. " One day, being at a distance from home, I met with a zealous Methodist exhorter. He asked me if I was born again ? I told him I had a hope that I was. Do you know, .-^aid he, that your sins are forgiven 1 No, replied I, neither do I expect that knowledge in this world. I perceive ^aid he, that you are in the broad road to hell, and if you die in this state you will be damned. The Scripture, said T, tells us that the tree is known by its fruit ; and our Lord ikewise condemns rash judgment. What have you seen >r known of my life that induced you to judge me in such a manner? I pity you, said T. and turned my back on him REV. F. GARRETTSON. 29 But I could not easily forget the words of that pious young man, for they were as spears running through me. " In this state I continued till June 1775. The blessed morning I shall never forget ! In the night I went to bed as usual, and slept till day break : just as I awoke, I was alarmed by an awful voice, ' Awake, sinner, for you are not prepared to die.' This was as strongly impressed on my mind, as if it had been a human voice as loud as thun- der. I was instantly smitten with conviction in a manner I had not been before. I started from my pillow, and cried out, Lord, have mercy on my soul ! As it was about the commencement of the late unhappy war, and there was to be a general review that day near my house, I had pro- mised myself much satisfaction ; for I was a professed friend to the American cause : however, instead of giving my attendance, I passed the morning in solitude ; and in tr^e afternoon went out and heard a Methodist sermon. In sorrow I went, and in sorrow returned ; and in sorrow the night passed away. None but those who have experienced the like exercises, can form an idea of what I underwent for several days. " The enmity of my heart seemed to rise higher and higher. On the Tuesday following in the afternoon I heard Mr. Daniel Ruff preach ; and was so oppressed that I was scarcely able to support my burden. After preaching I called in with D. R. at Mrs. G 's, and stayed till about nine o'clock. On my way home, being much dis- tressed, I alighted from my horse in a lonely wood, and bowed my knees before the Lord ; I sensibly felt two spirits striving with me. The good Spirit set forth to my inmost mind the beauties of religion ; and I seemed almost ready to lay hold on my Saviour. O unbelief, soul damn- ing sin ! it kept me from my Jesus. Then would the enemy rise up on the other hand, and dress religion in as odious a garb as possible ; yea, he seemed, in a moment of time, to set the world and the things of it in the most 4 30 LIFE OF THE brilliant colours before me ; telling me, all these thing.- should be mine if I would give up my false notions and - serve him. His temptations of a truth might be compared to a sweeping rain. I continued on my knees a consi- derable time, and at last began to give away to the reason- ing of the enemy. My tender feelings abated, and my tears were gone ; my heart was hard, but I continued on my knees in a kind of meditation ; and at length addressed my Maker thus : Lord, spare me one year more, and by that time I can put my worldly affairs in such a train that I can serve thee. It seemed as if I felt the two spirits with me. The answer was, * Now is the accepted time.' I then plead for six months, but was denied — one month, no — I then asked for one week, the answer was, 1 This is the time.' For some time the devil was silent, till I was denied one week in his service ; then it was he shot a powerful dart. ' The God,' said he, * you are attempting to serve is a hard Master ; and I would have you to desist from your endeavour.' Carnal people know very little of this kind of exercise : but it was as perceptible to me, as if I had been conversing with two persons face to face. As soon as this powerful temptation came, I felt my heart rise sensibly (I do not say with enmity) against my Maker, and immediately I arose from my knees with these words, I I will take my own time, and then I will serve thee.' I mounted my horse with a hard unbelieving heart, unwilling to submit to Jesus. O what a good God had I to deal with ! I might in justice have been sent to hell. " I had not rode a quarter of a mile, before the Lord met me powerfully with these words, 1 These three years have I come seeking fruit on this fig tree; and find none.' And then the following words were added, * I have come once more to offer you life and salvation, and it is the last time : choose or refuse.' I was instantly surrounded with a divine power : heaven and hell were disclosed to my view, and life and death were set before me. I do believe if I REV. F. GARRETTSQX. 31 had rejected this call, mercy would have been for ever taken from me. Man hath power to choose or refuse in religious matters ; otherwise God could have no reasonable service from his creatures. I knew the very instant when I submitted to the Lord, and was willing that Christ should reign over me : I likewise knew the two sins which I parted with last, pride and unbelief. I threw the reins of my bridle on my horse's neck, and putting my hands together, cried out, Lord, I submit. I was less than no- thing in my own sight ; and was now, for the first time, reconciled to the justice of God. The enmity of my heart was slain — the plan of salvation was open to me — I saw a beauty in the perfections of the Deity, and felt that power of faith and love that I had been a stranger to before." CHAPTER IL His happiness in God — Endures severe temptations — Frees his slaves — Reflections on slavery — Attends a class meeting Declares what God had done for him — First, speaks in public. — Suffers per- secution — Holds evening meetings, and God blesses his labours — Conversation with the parish priest — Strong exercises respecting becoming a travelling preacher — Makes the trial — Then tempted to desist — Makes trial of his gift again. " After I found this pearl of great price, my soul was so exceedingly happy, that I seemed as if I wanted to take wing and fly away to heaven. Although alone in an un- frequented wood, I was constrained to sound forth the praise of my Redeemer. I thought I should not be ashamed to publish it to the ends of the earth. As I drew near to the house the servants heard me, and came to meet me at the gate in great surprise. The stars seemed as so many seraphs going forth in their Maker's praise. I called the family together for prayer, but my prayer was turned into praise. (t About midnight I laid down to rest ; but my soul was 32 LIFE OF TIIL so happy in God I scarcely wished for sleep ; however, a? length my eyes were closed ; but behold ! about day break I awoke, and was strongly tempted by the devil, ( O!' said the adversary, 1 where is your religion now ? It was only a dream.' I started from my pillow — I remembered the time and place where I received the blessing ; and was enabled to repel that temptation. Again said he, 1 It is all a delusion.' This assault pained me to the heart. Not feeling as I had done, I began to conclude perhaps it might be so, and betook myself to the fields and woods under deep distress. I frequently bowed my knees before the Lord ; and blessed be his adorable name, about nine in the morning my beloved Master visited my heart with his love- And I think I received as great a manifestation as at the first. This visit was attended with an impression to go to such a place, and declare to all who might be there, what great things the Lord had done for me. I went to the house, got my horse, and set out. When I arrived at the place, I found a Methodist preacher and several of my acquaintance ; and it was strongly impressed on my mind to deliver my message. I sat down among them, but the cross was too heavy. I sat hours and grieved the blessed Spirit till I was brought under heavy trials ; yea, deep dis- tress of soul ; and in that way I returned home. u For the good of others, I shall speak of a few days' exercise on this occasion. The blessed Redeemer left me, or rather hid his face from me : and I had to wade through deep waters. I fasted and prayed till I was almost reduced to a skeleton ; but did not open my mouth to any one. 1 was sinking into desperation. — O ! how powerfully was I harassed by the devil, day and night ! The Saturday fol- lowing I was walking through the fields ; all nature was clothed with beauty and verdure ; but I could discover no charms in aught around me ; I was under the deepest ex- ercises of mind, and severely tempted of the devil. ' Ah, suggested he. f where is your God now V He thrust REV. F. GARRETTSON. 33 atheism and deism against me ; and thus suggested to my mind, * You see you have been deluded ; and if you will now take my advice, you will deny every pretension to this religion. The Methodists are a set of enthusiasts, and you have now a proof of this.' Then with what splendour was the world exhibited to my imagination : ' All these things,' suggested he, * will I give you if you will deny that God you have been attempting to serve, and pray to him no more.' I was sunk as low as I could possibly be ; for my mind was encompassed with darkness, and the most severe distress. I was afraid my lips would be forced open to deny the God who made me. Glory, glory to my Lord ! who again gave me a view of an opening eternity, and a sense of his dread majesty ; the sight of which brought me into the dust, prostrate with my face to the ground, where I lay for a considerable time with language similar to this, If I perish, it shall be at thy feet, crying for mercy. Thus I lay till I recovered a gleam of hope that I should be saved at last. " I arose from the earth and advancing towards the house in deep thought, I came to this conclusion, that I would exclude myself from the society of men, and live in a cell upon bread and water, mourning out my days for having grieved my Lord. I went into my room and sat in one posi- tion till nine o'clock. I then threw myself on the bed, and slept till morning. Although it was the Lord's day, I did not intend to go to any place of worship ; neither did I desire to see any person, but wished to pass my time away in total solitude. I continued reading the Bible till eight, and then under a sense of duty, called the family together for prayer. As I stood with a book in my hand, in the act of giving out a hymn, this thought powerfully struck my mind, ' It is not right for you to keep your fellow crea- tures in bondage ; you must let the oppressed go free.' I knew it to be that same blessed voice which had spoken to me before — till then I had never suspected that the 4* :34 LIFE OF THE practice of slave keeping was wrong ; I had not read a book on the subject, nor been told so by any — I paused a minute, and then replied, ' Lord, the oppressed shall go free.' And I was as clear of them in my mind, as if I had never owned one. I told them they did not belong to me, and that I did not desire their services without making them a compensation : I was now at liberty to proceed in worship. After singing I kneeled to pray. Had I the tongue of an angel, I could not fully describe what I felt : all my dejection and that melancholy gloom which preyed upon me vanished in a moment, and a divine sweetness ran through my whole frame.* *' I had now no desire to confine myself to a cell, but ■ In how many- instances in the course of our experience is the truth of the declaration of Solomon demonstrated — " A man's heart deviseth his way ; but the Lord directeth his steps." Such is our short-sightedness that we should often seek death in the error of our ways, did not our heavenly Father frustrate our designs and lead us in a way which we knew not. These remarks were sug- gested by the following reflections found in a manuscript note to his printed journal, which appears to have been written but a short time before his death : " I have since clearly seen the goodness of God in preparing me for future usefulness : I was a babe, and knew very little of the insinuations of our powerful foe. I shall always have an aversion to the practice of holding our fellow creatures in abject slavery. It was the blessed God that taught me the rights of man. I can now tell the present and rising generation that their privileges are very great ; formerly in this country darkness was all around, and now gospel light breaks forth from every direction. Formerly the unregenerate were in ignorance ; but now they have no cloak for their sins. The magnitude of a crime depends greatly upon the light we sin against. I shall not soon forget my solitary wander- ings in search of a suitable place where I could be excluded from the world. My plan seemed to be, to sell my property and put it to use, and have one person employed that I could confide in, to bring me, and do for me, what was really necessary. I had opened my mind to no one. When the blessed God brought me through these trials, all my schemes were afloat,, and I was far from desiring 'o hide myself in a corner." REV. F. GARRETTSON. 35 wished to 6pread my Redeemer's glory to the ends of the world. I bless the Lord for leading me safely through such fiery trials ! My late affliction of mind was for my good. It was God, not man, that taught me the impro- priety of holding slaves : and I shall never be able to praise him enough for it. My very heart has bled, since that, for slave holders, especially those who make a profession of religion ; for I believe it to be a crying sin. In the fore- noon I attended Church, but I could not find what I wanted. In the afternoon I went to hear the Methodists ; and some- thing told me, ' These are the people.' I was so happy in the time of preaching, that I could conceal it no longer ; so 1 determined to choose God's people for my people, and returned home rejoicing. " A few days after, I attended a class meeting on Deer creek, for the first time, and was convinced it was a pru- dential institution ; and my heart was more than ever united to this community. I told brother H., a pious man, what the Lord had done for me. I now began again to be pressed in spirit to visit my friends and neighbours ; and especially some particular families who lay with weight on my mind. The first visit I made, the man of the house was much enraged against me ; but my Lord gave me one or two of his children. Shortly after I visited another family ; and the master was brought to cry for mercy, on his knees before the Lord. The third was nearly twenty miles off: I seemed to go with confidence, and got there a little before night : I told him what God had done for me, and desired he would send out and call in the neighbours, and I would pray with and for them. The person did so, and after prayer I was obliged, for the first time, to open my mouth by way of exhortation ; and the Lord filled it, and sent his arrows to the hearts of three sinners, one of whom slept very little that night; and another followed me nearly sixteen miles the next day. " Shortly after I was brought into gospel liberty, 1 ■lb LIFE OF THE thought it my duty to open religious meetings in several places, principally at my own house, and at the house of my brother John, where a blessed work of God broke out, and I took down the names of those who were awakened and converted and who expressed a wish to unite toge- ther. Though I had not yet joined the Methodists, I was considerably acquainted with them, had read some of Mr. Wesley's writings, and saw clearly that religious people ought to unite together. I formed a society of about thirty which I generally met weekly, and several of them were happy in God. I invited Mr. Rodda, a Methodist preacher with whom I had met, to come and preach a sermon , he did, and after preaching I told him there was a people prepared for him, that I thought him more capable of taking care of them than myself, and that if he would take them in, and give them regular preach- ing, I would deliver them up to his charge, which he ac- cordingly did. The next day he told me I must travel with him, which I did for about nine days; he preached and I exhorted after him. I then told him I must return home ; when he asked why, I replied that I was not disposed to be a travelling preacher. " It was now the enemy suggested that there was no other way for me to prevent or get clear of those itinerat- ing impressions but to alter my condition in life. The thought was so pleasing, that I employed carpenters to put an addition to my house. I received a letter from Mr. Rodda to meet him in Baltimore ; I did so, and after staying with him a few days, he told me that he wanted to stay in town a few weeks, and he wished I would take his circuit, and he would meet me at such a place. I attended every appointment for which I engaged, and we had precious seasons ; but instead of meeting Mr. R. at the appointed place, I cut across, and started for home; I had about fifty miles to go. I called at the house of a pious old gentleman for some refreshments ; he looked me in the face and said , REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 37 Are you the young man that was with Mr. R 1 I told him I was. Where are you going ? said he : Home, I replied. What are you going home for ? I do not intend to be a travelling preacher, I replied. From every thing that 1 can understand, said he, God has called you to that work, and if you reject that call he will pursue you. I replied, I cannot help it, I do not intend to be a travelling preacher, u I again attended class for the second time at Mr. D.'s ; and as they had not heard what had happened to me, some of them were fearful that I had come in to spy out their liberties. I arose from my seat, and, for the first time among the Methodists, publicly declared what the Lord had done for me. A divine kindling ran through the whole house ; and we had a blessed meeting. The leader offered to give up his paper to me ; but I refused, saying, I would visit them as often as I could ; and so returned home praising God. " I felt an impression to go to that brother I have before mentioned, who was raised from the jaws of death : he was in a seeking way ; but did not profess the faith of assurance. I begged of him to call a meeting in his own house, and I found great freedom to speak, and appointed another meeting ; about forty people gathered ; and while I was speaking, the power of the Lord came down in a wonderful manner : nearly half the poor sinners that were present were struck to the floor, and cried for mercy to such a degree that they were heard at a great distance. After the meeting was over, many continued crying for mercy, "The next morning a gentleman who lived not far off, came to the house to beat me : soon after he entered he began to swear, affirming I would spoil all his negroes. I told him if he did not leave off swearing, God would send his soul to hell. He replied, ' If I said that again he would level me to the floor.' I assured him I would reprove him whenever he took the Lord's name in vain. He then rose up and struck me on the side of the face, and repeated his 38 LIFE OF THE blows. There were five of us in the house, my brother, his overseer, myself, and two enemies. I was afraid we should have had a general battle. My brother was only awakened ; his overseer had no religion, beyond a zeal for the truth, and such a love for my brother and myself, that he would almost have lain down his life for us. My mind was perfectly calm and my soul so happy that I scarcely felt his blows. I saw the Lord's hand in my preservation ; for though he was in so violent a rage, I had not been exhorting many minutes (with tears) before he- was as quiet as a lamb : and he and his man, bidding us good morning, went away. Dear man ! not long after he was taken into an awful eternity. n I now began to hold evening meetings in different places, several times in a week : and united those who were awakened into a kind of society ; and several, I trust , were happily united to Jesus. O ! what sweet times I used to have. Frequently we have continued singing, praying, and praising God till after midnight. Many of my relations expressed great sorrow for me ; but glory to God ! I delighted in the cross of my Saviour. I was as- saulted by many inward conflicts from the devil and the corruptions of my own heart; but Jesus was precious to me. " I had an appointment one Lord's day, but before I got there a company of Belial's children gathered to prevent the meeting ; but blessed be God, I was enabled to speak boldly ; and although some raged and threatened me, my faith was so strong I did not believe they could hurt me I shall never forget that day ; it was a time of rejoicing to my poor soul ! O that I may always give glory to my Lord ! " I was determined I would have nothing to do with the unhappy war ; it was contrary to my mind, and grievous to my conscience, to have any hand in shedding human blood. Accordingly I was brought before the officers at a general muster, because I refused to meet, as usual, to learn the art of war. The general officer called me aside REV. F. GAItRETTSON. 39 we sat down together, and he asked me why I refused to muster as I used to do. I told him that a recital of the great things God had lately done for me would, perhaps, be the best answer I could give him. I then in a plain manner related to him my experience, and the happy state of my mind. Moreover, I told him that it was useless for me to learn a trade which I never intended to follow, and assured him, that it was not from any disaffection to my country's cause, but conscience, and a conviction thai there was a greater work for me to engage in. My expe- rience seemed to take some hold on his mind, and he said he did not blame me at all, but he was sorry to lose me from the company, and he could not exempt me ; so I was called before the company, and I sat on my horse and exhorted more than a thousand people, whilst the tears flowed down my cheeks : however a court marshal sat on my case, and laid a fine of twelve dollars and a half yearly, but they never called for the fine, and I have never since been troubled with their military works. " It was impressed on my mind to have some conversa.- tion with Mr. W — , the minister of our parish. He had been the means of keeping me from God and his people for a long time. We had a long discourse in the vestry cham- ber, before the vestry : where I told him what God had done for me. He desired to know who gave me authority to hold meetings in his parish ? I told him I did not do it either for money or honour ; that while there were sinners in his parish, and the Lord pressed it on my mind, J. should call them to repentance. ' You have no right to do it,' said he, * unless you are ordained.' The love of God constraineth me, said I, and I must open my mouth in his cause. Having tasted his goodness, I have a long- ing desire that my neighbours should be made happy too. After a conversation of nearly two hours on the new birth, finding his mind disturbed, I told him in a plain manner what I thought of his doctrine, and what effect it former!}' 40 LIFE OF THE had on me, and so our meeting ended. After I withdrew to my home, being young in the way, very few to strengthen and many to weaken my hands, I was sorely tempted of Satan to give up my confidence in the Lord. Under heavy affliction of mind I withdrew, and wrestled in prayer till the Lord visited me and dispersed every doubt and every fear ; giving me these words for my comfort, 1 Fear not, I am with you, and will support you under all your trials.! O what consolatory streams flowed into my heart ! and how was I strengthened and enabled to rejoice in the Lord !" Mr. Garrettson observes that he has been thus particular in relating the exercises of his mind for the benefit of young preachers who may hereafter be induced to engage in the same work. And is it to be wondered at that the grand adversary of souls should thrust so sore at him who became an instrument of so great injury to his tyrannical kingdom ! Perhaps it is not too much to say that of all the Methodist preachers raised up in that day, there were none more devoted to the work, more zealous and useful, than the subject of this memoir. Being at the same time young in Christian experience, not having many examples before him of those similarly situated, he had not the many helps which are now generally afforded to young ministers of the gospel by the conversation and counsel of the aged and deeply experienced. What reason have we of the present generation of preachers, as well as the more private Christians, to be thankful to God for the various helps with which we are favoured. The experience of our fathers instructs us; their example stimulates us : and the truths they delivered guide us safely on in our perilous course : while, if we imitate their example in their entire devotion to the cause of their divine Master, no doubt but we shall participate in their reward. Notwithstanding the natural aversion which it is appa- REV. F. GARRETTSON. 41 rent Mr. Garrettson felt to enter the field of itinerant labour, the evident tokens of divine approbation which attended the commencement of his efforts, tended to remove his scruples, until his opposition was entirely sub- dued by the perpetual and powerfully inward calls of the Holy Spirit to this work. Call not this enthusiasm. The sequel of his life, so abundant in labours, so rich in suc- cess, refutes the slander, and confirms the assumption that he was called of God and set apart by the Holy Ghost for the work of the ministry. It was from a consciousness ot this call that Mr. Garrettson was enabled to go forward, and willingly devote himself to this labour; and which so fortified his soul against the assaults of temptation, rhat though he had to struggle hard, he finally overcame them all. Hence also arose that sweet peace of mind of which" he so often speaks, notwithstanding the violence of his inward conflicts. To have " fightings without and fears within," is perfectly consistent with a consciousness of the favour of God, and is therefore common to the ex- perience of all true Christians, and more especially to Christian ministers. Hence he says : " I found great liberty of speech, and the word was blessed to many souls, for the Lord greatly assisted me, and I had sweet refreshing seasons. O how happy might I have been , had I guarded against my powerful adversary ! but I had not been on the circuit more than fifteen days, before I gave way to his suggestions, and concluding that I was not called to this work, I left the circuit under deep dejection and returned home, determined I would never attempt it again. It was suggested that the more I went among the Methodists, particularly the preachers, the more my mind would be distressed about travelling. I was still willing to speak occasionally about home ; but to go through the world, I knew not where, was a burden, as I thought, too heavy for me to endure. 5 12 LIFE OF THE " 'Tis not in my power to give a full account of my exei> cises from the fall till the following spring. It may, how- ever, be necessary to touch on a few particulars ; for about four months I spent my time in prayer, reading, and such like exercises, except when I was from home, at preaching, or holding meetings myself. The idea of travelling, and preaching the gospel, was continually held up to my view. Frequently when riding, or walking, I was drawn out on divine subjects, and at times the Bible seemed all open to me : it was not uncommon for me to preach in my sleep. One night the whole world of sinners seemed to be exhi- bited as it were in the air, suspended by a slender thread, and the dismal pit beneath them. I saw them careless and unconcerned, in all kinds of ungodly practices, as secure as if in no sort of danger : in my sleep I began to cry aloud to convince them of their danger, till I aroused my brother, who then awoke me : I was sitting up in my bed, trembling, and as wet with sweat as if I had been dipped in a river. Although I lived so abstemiously, I had very little happiness, except at those times when I felt a degree of willingness to labour for my Lord. I have frequently stood astonished, wept and mourned in secret before the Lord, and entreated him to send some one else, that was more sensible and capable than myself : looking around in my mind and nominating such and such per- sons, whom I conceived to be more fit for the ministry ; saying, how can it be, that such an unworthy, ignorant being should be set apart for so great a work ? When on my way to my occasional appointments, I would promise in my mind, that if the Lord attended his word with great power, I would consent to give up and labour for him. And at such times I have had great displays of the good- ness of God, and have seen sinners weeping all around; but although my mind at those seasons was resolved, un- belief would again assault and overpower me. " In the month of March my conflicts were so great I REV. F. GARRETTSON. 43 almost sunk under them. The ungodly amongst my ac- quaintances knew not what was the matter with me : some would ask if I was sick, for I was much worn away. Others would say behind my back, he will come to nothing. I believe I had a more severe travail of soul before I sub- mitted to be an itinerant preacher, than I had gone through for justifying grace. One day being almost weary of life, and under deep dejection, I thought if the Lord would manifest his will, I would through grace obey. I was next led to inquire how I was to expect this desired favour. I kneeled down by the bed and prayed to the Lord, by some means or other, to make a discovery to me, in the clearest manner, of what he would have me to do. 1 arose from my knees without any particular answer, much burdened and greatly distressed. I threw myself on the bed again, and in less than two minutes I was in a sound sleep. I dreamed I saw the devil come in at the door, and advance towards me ; I thought a good angel came and spake to me saying, * Will you go and preach the gospel?' I replied, 'I am unworthy, I cannot go:' In- stantly the devil laid hold of my hand, and I began to struggle to get from him ; I saw but one way that I could escape, and that was a very narrow one. The good angel said to me, ' There is a dispensation of the gospel com- mitted to you, and wo unto you, if you preach not the gospel.' I struggled for some time to get from him, but in vain : at length I cried out, > Lord, send by whom thou wilt, I am willing to go and preach thy gospel.' No sooner had I thus submitted, than I saw the devil fly as it were through the end of the house in a flame of fire. I awoke ; immediately every cloud was dispersed, and my 60u\ was enraptured with the love of my Saviour. I wanted now to converse with some experienced person on the subject ; my way now appeared so open, I thought 1 -hould never have any more doubts to contend with. 1 ?>elieve it was the next day, I received a letter from bro- 44 LIFE OF THE ther D. R., desiring me to come and take the circuit a few weeks while he went to Philadelphia. I had no doubt but the Lord directed him to write thus. Before the da\ arrived that I was to set off, the enemy strove again to prevent me ; telling me I was deluded, that it was only my own fancy, or the vanity of my own heart. After I set out I was pursued to that degree, I was ready to desire my horse might throw me, and put an end to my life ; or maim me so that I might not be able to go on. In the evening I got to brother D. R.'s, in Cecil, where he had an appointment for me ; but my exercises were so severe that I could say but little. The next day he left me, and I concluded to go on the circuit. Of all creatures in the world, I have the greatest reason to be thankful to the Lord, for his tender care of me, a poor weak rebel against him. At the first and second places to which I went, the Lord was powerfully present; and I believe good was done. I was now quite willing to be an exhorter ; but thought I would not take a text ; I had not, however, travelled far before I had a text suggested to me, and I refused, till my gift of exhortation was almost taken away; and my mind was amazingly distressed again. " One sabbath I came to a place near Choptank bridge , where I again refused to give out a text, and it pleased the Lord to hide his face, so that I was unable to speak with any degree of freedom. I went to my afternoon's appointment very low both in mind and body, having taken very little refreshment for several days. I deter- mined if a text opened to me, I would give it out boldly, and trust in the Lord. It was so, and I gave out, " Behold the man." I shall never forget the afternoon ; it was a time of power to me and many others; the whole Bible seemed open to me. The next day I went to my appoint- ment, with some willingness to be a preacher. I gave out this text, " The great day of his wrath is come, and who -hall be able to stand." I endeavoured to show, as I could. REV. F. GARRETTSON. 45 how awful that day would be ; who would, and who would not be able to stand, with the consequences to each class. The power of God in a very remarkable manner came down among the people, and hardened sinners were brought to cry for mercy. When almost spent, I stopt ; but the people continued praying. O, it was a memorable season ! my soul was happy, and my heart humbled. 1 was now willing to be a preacher, and thought, surely 1 shall never doubt again. " When brother D. R. returned, he took the circuit, and I went out to open a new one. As I passed along through TuckeyhoeNeck, I called at a house and asked the woman if she wanted to hear the word of the Lord preached ; if she did, to send and call in her neighbours : she did so, and I found great freedom. I gave out that I would preach again the next day. The man of the house was an officer of rank, and it being a day of general mustering, he marched up all the company, and I spoke to hundreds with freedom ; many tears were shed, and several con- victed, one of whom has since become a preacher. I continued several days in the Neck, and my labours were attended with success.* " I again met brother D. R. in Cecil county, where we jiad a quarterly meeting, and from thence we set out for Hartford. He solicited me not to fail attending the Bal- timore Conference. On the Lord's day following, an ap- * " After I left brother Ruff, I was wandering along in search of an opening for the word, in deep thought and prayer, that my way might be prosperous. I came opposite a gate, the impression wan sudden — turn in, this is the place where you are to begin. It was the house of Rev. E. Cooper's mother, and the officer was his step father. Ezekiel was about thirteen years of age, and as he has since informed me, he received a divine touch which he never lost, and some years after, he was happily brought out to testify of the forgiving lovo of Jesus, was called to the work of the ministry, and to eminent usefulness in the church of God. There is great cause of thanR nlness for mv feeble efforts in this little excursion." 5* Hi LIEE OF THE pointment was made for me to preach in my native place ; a multitude gathered, among whom were many of my old friends and relations, which made the cross very heavy. T gave out my old text, ' The great day of his wrath is come, and who shall be able to stand V Just as I had entered on the subject, I fainted under the cross, and fell to the ground, (I was preaching under the trees,) where I lay till water was brought and thrown on me, when I immediately recovered and was enabled to rise. I then proceeded, the subject opened to me, and we had a solemn season. Tongue cannot express or pen describe what I felt. Some of the careless ones said, ' He is not able to stand.' It seemed as if I could have lain down my life for my relatives and neighbours, had it been required. Thanks be to God, I trust some good was done. The next day I was most severely pursued by the enemy of souls, T was young, and very feeble both in body and mind, and greatly feared lest I should fall under the hand of my pow- erful foe ; but the blessed God had an eye upon me for good. On Monday I had a severe conflict about attending the conference. The exercise of my mind was too great for my emaciated frame. I betook myself to my bed and lay till twelve o'clock, then rose up and set off. I got into Baltimore about sunset. The conference was to begin the next day : I attended, passed through an examination., was admitted on trial, and my name was, for the first time, classed among the Methodists; and I received of Mr. Rankin a written license. My mind continued so agitated, for I still felt an unwillingness to be a travelling preacher, that after I went from the preaching house to dinner, I again fainted under my burden, and sunk to the floor. When I recovered I found myself in an upper chamber on the bed, surrounded by several preachers ; I asked, * where I had been,' as I seemed to be lost to all ihings below, appearing to have been in a place from whence I did not desire to return. The brethren joined in REV. F. CARRETTSOX. 47 prayer, and my soul was so happy, while every thing wore so pleasing an aspect, that the preachers appeared to me more like angels than men. And I have praised the Lord ever since, that, though unworthy of a seat among them I was ever united to this happy family." CHAPTER III. Commences a regular travelling preacher — Severely exercised — Much assisted— Holds a watch night— Goes to Fairfax circuit- Preaches in the parish church — Great manifestation of the power of God — Attacked by a Presbyterian minister on the doctrine of perfection — Farewell sermon-r-Lodges with a Quaker — Attends conference. " I was appointed to travel in the Frederick circuit with Mr. Rodda, and as the conference ended on Friday, I set out, arrived at Mr. W — n's, and the next day got into my circuit. I preached on the Lord's day with very little freedom or happiness to my own soul, the enemy still pursuing me with his fiery darts. At times I had sweet communion with my blessed Lord ; but a conscious- ness of my weakness and inability for the great work in which I had engaged, caused my hands to hang down. I was a young soldier, and knew but little about exer- cising the Christian armour. The goodness of God wa? great to me, in opening the hearts of the people to receive and bear with my weaknesses. M One day on my way to my appointment my difficulties appeared so great, that I turned my horse, three different times, towards home. I was in a solitary wood, entirely alone ; I wept, I mourned, and prayed at the feet of my Lord, and was finally encouraged to go forward, and a sweet and powerful meeting we had. Sometimes when 1 have been at the appointed place, and the people assem- bling, I have been tempted to hide myself, or wish that 1 4b LIFE OF THE was sick ; at other times I have envied the happiness of crawling insects on the face of the earth ; and I have con- stantly found that the greater cross it was to speak for God, the greater was the blessing, both to myself and the people. In these cases I seldom opened my mouth to speak in public but the power of the Lord was sensi- bly felt. My Bible, at particular times, would appear so small that I could'not find a text. I remember one day, a congregation was gathered, and I was alone, under deep exercise ; and it appeared as if there was not one verse in the Bible that I could speak on : all on a sudden whilst I was on my knees before the Lord, the following text was powerfully applied : ' The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach glad tidings to the meek, to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound,' Isa. lxi, 1. I immediately met the assembly, and after singing and prayer, gave out the text, and the power of God descended in an extraordinary manner. Previously to this the people were so hardened that we had only four members in that place ; but before I left the house, twenty, who seemed to be that day broken in heart, were added to the society. We continued sing- ing and praying till nearly sunset, and there appeared to be very few in the congregation whose hearts were not touched ; my voice being almost lost in the cries of the distressed. O blessed be God ! this was a day of marrow and fat things to my poor heart. u Some time after I was requested to appoint a watch- night, to which I consented. Mr. R. was displeased that I had not consulted him ; but I was innocent, knowing very little of the discipline. Many people came together, and many of the children of the devil were angry and stoned die house ; but the Lord was powerfully present. His people had a little paradise ; and I trust there were several mow -born souls, and some poor sinners brought to tremble. REV. F. GARRETTSOX, 49 " I continued six months in this circuit, and blessed be God ! many were added to the society ; his children much quickened : and many happily brought into the king- dom of grace. My heart was closely united to the people, and they were remarkably kind to me. I thought it a great favour to be received as a preacher : and I verily believe the Lord inclined the hearts of the people to over- look my many weaknesses and want of knowledge ; and for the sake of his dear Son in a small measure owned my efforts. " I think it was in November I was sent to Fairfax cir- cuit, where I staid three months. I had many happy moments, and preached the gospel with freedom. I cannot say I met with much success, neither was I so powerfully harassed by temptations. I was now better acquainted with Satan's devices ; and I trust, had a more steady confidence in my blessed Saviour. I began to preach the word more freely, and was not so easily shaken with respect to my call to the ministry. I was now entirely willing to be a travelling preacher : and blessed be God ' he gave me favour in the sight of the people. " As there were many doors open for us in New Vir- ginia, and several small societies formed, Mr. Rodda thought it expedient to send me into those parts of the country ; and blessed be my God ! I found a willingness to go any where, and to do any thing that would be of the least service to the church of God. I bless and praise the Lord for his goodness to me during my stay in that part of his vineyard, for he wonderfully enlarged nr. desires after him ; he increased my gifts, and opened the iiearts and houses of the people to receive his servant and his word. Many were added to the society. u I visited Shepherd's town, lying high up on the Po- tomac river. On the Lord's day I attended the church and heard their minister preach on * Keep holy the sab- bath day.' Though he was a man slow of speech, I think his 50 LIFE OF TIIF. discourse took up only fifteen minutes. He said there war no harm in civil amusements on a week day ; but they ought to refrain from them on the sabbath. I had no doubt but his discourse was his own composition. I do not remem- ber a word about the fall of man, faith, or repentance. I asked liberty, and went up into the pulpit after him, and gave out, ' How shall we escape if we neglect so great sal- vation V Heb. ii, 3. After I had done, one of his hearers asked him what he thought of the doctrine the stranger had delivered ? Why, said he, he seems to bring Scripture to prove it ; it may be so, but if it is I know nothing of it. " 1 preached every other Sunday in the church during my stay in this new circuit ; and the fourth sermon there were as many people as could crowd into the building. There was a great agitation among the congregation, and the word took such effect on the heart of a woman that -he cried aloud for mercy. The people, being unacquainted with such things, strove to get out ; but the aisle and every place were so crowded, that they could not, unless those at the doors had first given way. In a few minutes the Lord set her soul at liberty. She clapped her hands in an ecstacy of joy, praised the Lord, and then quietly sat down. The whole congregation seemed to be lost in amazement, and the div ine presence appeared to run through the whole house : most of the people were melted into tears. The Presbyterian minister was among the crowd, and most of his congregation came to hear what the babbler had to say. This man with his deacon I met on the road a few days after. 1 1 was hearing you preach,' said he, ■ and I did not like your doctrine.' What was your objection, said I : Why it was a volley of stuff.' Well, I replied, if the Lord makes use of it to bring souls to himself, I wish to be thankful and satisfied. 1 You preach perfection,' said he, ' and that I do not believe to be attainable in this life.' Then, said I, you do not hold with the doctrine of our f ord and his apostles ; our Lord says, ' Be ye perfect over, REV. F. GARRETTSON. 51 as your Father in heaven is perfect,' and the apostle says, 1 The blood of Christ cleanseth from all sin.' When are we to be made perfect 1 ' Not till death,' said he. Our Lord, said I, ' came to destroy the works of the devil and do you suppose he will call death to his assistance ? Death in Scripture is called the last enemy, and we learn, that as death leaves us judgment will find us ; and that there is no knowledge or work in the grave. And if we die in our sins, where the Lord is we cannot come: I want to know how death is to bring this about. * Why,' said he, 1 at the article of death, sin is done away, and not till then.' The Papists say, we must be refined by the fire of purgatory : the Universalists, that the last farthing will be paid in hell ; and you say, Nay, death will do it \ but we profess to hold with the Holy Scriptures, which say, that 1 his name shall be called Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sins.' Do you not, said I, believe that the Lord is able to wash and cleanse the soul from all sin one minute before death ? To this he agreed. And if a minute, why not a day, a month, yea, why not seven years? The apostle saith, ' Behold, now is the accepted time ! behold, now is the day of salvation !' How dare any man limit the holy One of Israel. * I have done with you,' cried he and his deacon, and so saying turned they their backs upon me.* " A few evenings after, I preached near his house, and he and his deacon were present again ; a precious season we had ; a great shaking among sinners, and I expect the * " I shall here observe, that many things were said on both side?, which I penned in my daily journal ; the substance of which I gave to the public, and I have since examined my daily journal, and I am assured of the correctness of what was said. But I have to say, we were both beginners in the great work of the ministry, and pro- bably a few years' longer experience, and we should have been capable of handling the controversy more profitably. God alone is absolutely perfect. Among finite intelligences perfection can only be in degrees. Angels arc perfect in their measure. Adam in 52 LIFE OF THE heart of the minister was also softened. He came to me after sermon, and asked my pardon if he had said any thing amiss. " Glory to God, he enabled me to travel largely through that country, to preach one, two, three, and sometimes four sermons a day. The last sermon I preached was from "Finally, brethren, farewell,' &c. This was a time not soon to be forgotten. A large congregation seemed to drink in every word ; such attention was given and so much of the divine presence felt, that I continued nearly three hours, and then the people hung around me in such a manner that I could scarcely get from them, begging me with tears not to leave them." Thus ended the labours of this man of God in that part of the country for this conference year. And who that reads the preceding account of his travels, his mode of life, his indefatigable labours to promulgate the gospel of the grace of God, and witnesses at the same time the aston- ishing effects of his ministrations, but must glorify God in him ? To young preachers of the gospel in particular, this narrative of the manner in which Mr. Garrettson was called forth into the gospel field, and the various exercises of his mind, as well as the encouragement afford- ed him by the Head of the church, must be peculiarly inte- resting and profitable. How different the school in which his mind was disciplined to "the obedience of Christ" and prepared to become a competent and an efficient 1 minister of the New Testament" from that in which many are fitted by the art and device of men ! The instrument paradise was perfect in his measure. Christians may be perfect in their measure, and what we call Christian perfection, is a high degree of piety — to love God with every power of the soul, and to be saved from all sin, properly so called. " The apostle Paul describes it, 1 to be enlightened, to taste the hea- venly gift, to partake of the Holy Ghost, to taste the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come/ ' The bloo.d of Christ- cleanses from all sin." ' REV. F. GARRETTSON. was fitted for its work, and its effect was powerfully felt wherever it operated. After lodging and praying with a Quaker family " whose hearts the Lord touched," Mr. Garrettson attended a quar- terly meeting at Fairfax with Mr. Rankin, and then went to the conference which was held at Deer creek. CHAPTER IV. Deer creek Conference — Goes to Brunswick circuit, Virginia- Happy seasons in preaching on the way — Arrives on his circuit, and finds a lively people— An officer interrogates him on the subject of fighting — Confidence in God increased — Great consolation in preaching — Tempting offers, which he resists — Whites and blacks much affected — Refuses the state oath — Escapes a threatened im- prisonment—Goes to North Carolina— Reflections on Christian perfection — Experiences perfect love, and preaches this doctrine— Narrowly escapes being shot. " Our conference this year began at Deer creek the 20th of May, 1777, and continued till the Friday following. I was greatly refreshed among the servants of God ; some of whom I have never seen since, nor shall again on this side of eternity. " My appointment was in Virginia, in what was called Brunswick circuit, with brother W. and brother T. After spending a few days among my relations and old friends, on Monday I set out for my circuit, and on Tuesday met the preachers at brother M r's in Fairfax: and the next morning we set out in company on our way. My appointment was much to my mind, and I had a lively hope that my Lord would be with me, and bless my weak endeavours to promote his cause. u We travelled several days before we met any Method* ists ; but the Lord befriended us, for we had happy times together; and had an opportunity of preaching several iermons before we reached our circuit : we had a sweet 6 LIFE OF THE season at the house of a good old man ; and I think we were providentially sent thither, not only for the benefit of the family, but likewise of many others. " June the 4th 1 parted with my company, and thanks be to God, my soul was refreshed as with new wine. The same day I was brought to the house of a kind widow, who sent out and called a company together. There was a young growing society in this neighbourhood. I preached from * Fear not, little flock,' &,c, Luke xii, 32. From what I could understand they had seldom had such a time of refreshing. I could say It is good for me to be here. My confidence still grew stronger with respect to my call to the ministry. » " On the 5th of June I got into my circuit, and on Saturday the 7th, began my ministry among a lively peo- ple. I was attacked by an officer who wanted to know tny mind respecting fighting. I told him God had taught me better than to use carnal weapons against the lives of human creatures. He intimated something about stopping me. I told him I was not afraid of man — that if he did not learn to fight with other weapons he would go to hell. " On Sunday the 8th of June, I preached at brother I 's to many serious people. While I was pointing out the gospel salvation there was a shout in the camp of Israel ; and after the meeting ended there was a rejoicing among God's people. I met the society, and was more than ever confirmed in my belief that the Lord had sent me into that part of the vineyard. I there met with a black boy who was happy in the Lord ; and I thought he exceeded all the youths I had ever seen for a gift and power in prayer. " Monday, June the 9th, I preached a few miles off. from these words, 'Loose him and let him go.' There were as many people as the house could contain. After preaching nearly two hours, the cries of the assembly were so great that I desisted. The people continued together REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 5ft a long time after, and I doubt not but several were set at liberty. O Jesus ! thou still increasest my faith ; thou givest me lively sensations of thy pardoning love ; and I feel that thou hast called me to the ministry of thy blessed word. At this meeting we were so wonderfully drawn out that we knew not when to part, having seldom felt the like. The next day I had great freedom to preach, and one soul was born of God. * Thursday, June 12th, I found liberty in preaching at Dr. C r's to an attentive, solemn congregation. I rode to Col. Taylor's and met brother F. P. We held a watch night, and I think I never had more freedom to speak. The word was blessed to the Colonel and his family, and they treated me ever after more like a son than a stranger : yea, I may say, more like an angel than a poor clod of earth. And I, on my part, shall ever respect them for their kindness to me. " The next day I again crossed the Roanoke river, and had great liberty to preach from these words, ' For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone, the flowers ap- pear on the earth, the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in the land/ &c. After this, we had a love feast, and many spoke freely of ihe goodness of God. In this place the people wanted to gain me with their kindness ; but I refused their obliging offers, being convinced I should do jnore good in wander- ing up and down the earth without any incumbrances : and as for riches, I had enough to serve my purposes. The temptation was considerable, and pleasing to nature Vain world, away with your flattery ! I could rejoice in my God, with the testimony of a good conscience, know- ing that the oblation was made for the good of Christ's church which he purchased with his own blood. It was no time to think of houses and lands, &c. I passed on. rejoicing in God my Saviour, and was greatly encouraged in the blessed work. But halcyon days did not always 56 HFE OF THE attend me. I again experienced the severe buffettings of Satan ; but my exercises proved a blessing to me, for my soul was humbled, and I was made in a measure sensible of the need of a deeper work of grace in my heart before T could be completely happy. " Sunday, June 22d, in Roanoke chapel I preached to about five hundred whites, and almost as many blacks who stood without. I found freedom of mind, and many tears were shed by both white and black. The next day while I was preaching a funeral sermon we had much oi the divine presence. In this way I continued around the circuit till the quarterly meeting, which was held in August, at Maberry's chapel. The Lord was with me, blest my endeavours, and increased my love to him and his people. In this circuit I conversed with some deeply experienced Christians, and by their humble walk and heavenly conversation, I was much stirred up to seek a deeper work of grace; especially by the experience of sister B . I believed there was such a thing as perfect love to be attained in this world ; and I likewise knew I was not in possession of it : I saw a beauty in the doctrine, and preached it, but it was at a distance. "About this time the state oath began to be administered, and was universally complied with, both by preachers and people where I was ; but I could by no means be subject to my rulers in this aspect, as it touched my conscience towards God : so I was informed I must either leave the state, take the oath, or go to jail. I told those who came to tender the oath to me, that I professed myself a friend to my country : that I would do nothing willingly or know- ingly to the prejudice of it: that if they required it, I would give them good security of my friendly behaviour during my stay in the state. * But why/ said they, 4 will you not take the oath V ' I think,' said I, 1 the oath is too binding on my conscience ; moreover, I never swore an oath in my life : and ministers of the gospel have enough REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 57 to do in their sphere. I want, in all things, to keep a conscience void of offence, to walk in the safest way, and to do all the good I can in bringing sinners to God.' " We began to labour under heavy political trials, as it was a little after the commencement of what we call the revolutionary war, and indeed the clash of arms was a new thing in our country, especially such powerful blows from an overgrown mother, who wanted to keep her children under subjection, in matters wherein they thought they were capable of judging for themselves. It might be asked, Why did you not comply with the law ? From reading, my own reflection, and the teachings of the good Spirit, I was drawn quite away from a belief in the law- fulness of shedding human blood under the gospel dispen- sation, or at most it must be in an extreme case, touching which, at that time my mind was in doubt. Again, I thought the test oath was worded in such a way, as to bind me to take arms whenever called on, and I felt no disposition to use carnal weapons. " Many of my friends endeavoured to persuade me to comply : alleging that I might be more useful among the people : but it was to nd purpose. The rulers said, * You must leave the state.' This I cannot do, for first, the conference appointed me to labour in this state : and in the second place, I am confident that my appointment is approved of by my heavenly Father ; and therefore I dare not leave the state. ' Then/ said they, 1 you must go to prison.' That matter, I replied, I leave to the God of Daniel ; assured he is able to defend my cause, whether in or out of jail. "The many trials I had on this occasion drove me nearer to God, and as many thought that every sermon would be my last, more attended than otherwise would, and I found much freedom to preach the word, and good was done. "At a certain place several of the rulers bound them- 6* 58 LIFE OF THE selves to put me to jail, when I came that way again : my friends persuaded me to decline going there; but I told them I could not be clear if I distrusted so good a God. Before I came round to that place, the Lord laid his afflict- ing hand on some of those ruling men who had threatened to imprison me; so that when I went there, several of them had already made their exit into eternity ! and an- other was lying at the point of death. I preached with much freedom, but though I had been chased for several months, there was none to lay the hand of violence upon me. The persecution from this quarter entirely subsided during my stay in the state. In this circuit I met with a number of inward and outward trials; but I bless God. that he ever sent me into this part of his vineyard : so that I can truly say, that the life and conversation of many of my worthy friends, (some of whom were older in the grace of God than myself,) were made a great blessing to me. O! how shall I make suitable returns to my God for the thousands of his favours. " In September I went to North Carolina, to travel Roanoke circuit, and was sweetly drawn out in the glo- rious work, though my exercises were very great, particu- larly respecting slavery.* Many times did my heart ache * The question of slavery becomes more and more perplexing in these United States. It is an evil more easily deplored than extir- pated. Though it is cause for much gratitude that by the influence of the gospel many of the slaves are made better, and their masters have become more humane in their treatment of their slaves, all seem to agree that it is an evil much to be deprecated. It seems indeed like an inveterate disease of the body, the pains of which are sensibly felt, though not easily removed. What effect it may ulti- mately have on the body politic time alone must and will develope In the present state of things in the southern states it seems un available to contend for emancipation. The best, I think, which can be done to meliorate their condition is to bring, as far as possi- ble, all, both master and servant, under the influence of that immu- -able law, binding on all human beings, namely, to do to others as we would they should do unto us in like circumstances. Let slaves REV. F. GARRETTSOX, 5J9 on account of the slaves in this part of the country, and many tears did I shed, both in Virginia and Carolina, while exhibiting a crucified Jesus to their view ; and I bless God that my labours were not in vain among them. I endeavoured frequently to inculcate the doctrine of freedom in a private way, and this procured me the ill will of some who were in that unmerciful practice. I would often set apart times to preach to the blacks, and adapt my discourse to them alone ; and precious moments have I had. While many of their sable faces were bedewed with tears, their withered hands of faith were stretched out, and their precious souls made white in the blood of the Lamb. The suffering of these poor outcasts of men, through the blessing of God, drove them near to the Lord, and many of them were truly happy. "Respecting Christian perfection, I believed such a thing to be attainable in this life; I therefore, both in public and private, contended for it, and had often felt the need of it in my own soul : but I never had such a view t>f it in my life as while in this circuit. The Lord, in a very powerful and sudden manner, gave me to see and feel the need of this blessed work. Every heart corruption was discovered to me by the blessed Spirit, at the house of that dear afflicted mother in Israel, Mrs. Y. I have had many sweet moments with that precious family ; but she has since gone to Abraham's bosom. This discovery was made to me while I was alone in the preachers' room. I expected in a few moments to be in eternity ; and the cry of my heart was, Lord, save me from inbred sin. The purity of God, heaven, and the law, with the impurity of my heart, were so disclosed to my view, that I was hum- bled in the very dust ; and expected never to enter into and masters be instructed in this great principle and aot under its authority, and it shall ultimately work the entire deduction cff slavery itself. — Edit.qr-. LIFE OP THE the kingdom of heaven without a greater likeness to my blessed Lord. I rejoiced that the cold hand of death was not upon me. For more than a week an earnest struggle continued in my heart for all the mind which was in Christ. My appointments were made, or I am apprehen- sive I should have declined preaching so pure a gospel, till the heart corruptions which I felt were washed away. The enemy strove very hard to rob me of my confidence ; but although I was at times brought very low, yet I did not let go my hold of the dear Redeemer, the witness oi my justification, &c. M One day I went to my appointment, and while the people were gathering, I withdrew about a quarter of a mile from the house and wrestled with the Lord in prayer : I thought I could not meet the congregation, unless I was delivered from my inbred sins. However, after the peo- ple had waited about an hour, I went to the house, but my struggle seemed to be at the height. I thought I would pray with the people and dismiss them. After prayer my Lord gave me this text, * Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.' Never had I such freedom before that time, to describe, 1st, the impurity of the heart : 2dly, how it is to be purified : and 3dly, the blessing resulting therefrom — That they shall see God. While I was speak- ing of the travail of a soul for purity, all my inward dis- tress vanished ; and I felt a little heaven on earth. I know that the Lord deepened his work ; but I did not claim the witness of ■ perfect love ;' yet my soul was happy from day to day. " From this time I began to preach the doctrine of Christian perfection more than ever : the plan seemed as clear to me as the noon day sun. Many were convinced of the need of perfect love ; and some were brought into the possession of it.* The word of the Lord prospered * What is this perfection ? It is not the perfection of God, or angels, nor the perfection of Adam in paradise, but it is Christian REV. F. GARRETTSON. 61 in the circuit ; and some of the children of Belial were stirred up to persecute. One day a very wicked man came into the house while I was preaching; he sup- posed my discourse pointed at him, and stood for a con- siderable time, swelling, and threatening in his heart that he would haul me down and beat me. But before the sermon was ended, he gave heed to the things delivered, and a spirit of conviction took hold of his heart : before he left the house he professed justifying faith; and I trust became a changed man. " I then went to the house of a Christian man, whose brother, living next door, was a violent persecutor. — While I was at family prayer in the evening, he ran over with a loaded gun, and stood with it presented for a con- siderable time, but had not power to draw the trigger. A few days after, he was in a rage with his brother on account of his receiving the preacher, shot at him, and slightly wounded his body. I was very thankful I escaped him " In this circuit there was a blessed gathering of souls into the fold of Christ, many were convinced and converted, and at the spring quarterly meeting we had some lively witnesses of perfect love ; others were greatly moved to seek after that deep work of grace. Glory to God ! I can say I had many blessed, happy moments while travelling the Virginia and Carolina forests, endeavouring to gather poor lost souls to the Redeemer's fold. " I have often thought that the consolations afforded me were an ample compensation for all the difficulties and perfection. It consists in the extirpation of all sin, in having the powers and affections of the heart purified, and the whole soul filled with divine love. 2d, How is this blessing to be attained ? As we are justified by faith, so are we sanctified by faith. 1. We are con vinced of the need of it. 2. In general there is a sweet distress, but, no guilt or condemnation. 3. We must by faith receive the pro^ mises. Repentance disclaims all help in man.* Faith lays claim to, all the help in Christ. Repentance says, I can do nothing. Faith says, Through Christ Jesus strengthening mc I can do all things- <>2 LIFE OF THE trials I met with, in wandering up and down in an iH natured world. And I often reflect and bewail my back- wardness, when I first entered so unwillingly as a labourer into my Lord's vineyard. But now, thanks to his dear name, I go willingly ; and desire cheerfully to obey all his commandments, and do all the little good I can to promote his honour and glory. " In May, I left the people to whom I found myself closely united, and in whose sight the Lord gave me grea* favour, and set out for the Leesburg Conference." CHAPTER V. From the conference in Leesburg, goes to the Peninsula, Md. -Persecution against the Methodists— Its causes — Perseveres in his work — Beaten and bruised— Blessed effects of this opposition in his own soul — Preaches the word with great effect — Enters the state of Delaware, and preaches the word with great success — Goes to Kent island— Death of his brother John — Remarkable instance of conversion— Meets with opposition at Dover, but succeeds in preaching— Rescues a man who was attempting to hang himself— Conversion of an old persecutor — Not an enthusiast — Sinners flock to Christ — Delivered from the hand of the civil officer — Preaches and forms a society in Quantico — Vindicates infant baptism — Oppo- sition meetings unsuccessful — Good effectsofthe gospel — Providen- tial interview with a strange woman — Work of God greatly prospers — Remarks on silent meetings — Great inward conflicts — Remark- able answer to prayer— The arm of the Lord made bare in the con- version of souls — The wicked persecute — Escapes unhurt — Silences an ignorant disputant— And escapes imprisonment. , " We had a comfortable conference in Leesburg, and May 20, 1778, I set out for my destined place. After preaching a few sermons, and visiting my old friends and relations, on the 30th of May I Crossed the Chesapeake ; and in the evening had a delightful opportunity of press- ing the necessity of holiness on the minds of many, Blessed be God ! there was a shout in the camp among our blessed Saviour's despised followers ; and I have no REV. F. GARRETTSON. 06 doubt but that the Lord directed my lot into this part of the work. " On Sunday I spoke in Kent preaching house with much liberty, and we had a sweet refreshing season. This was the first Methodist preaching house that was built on this shore. In the evening I was much drawn out in prayer and self examination ; and felt the sweet beams of the blessed Spirit, and experienced the bliss of prayer, with a comfortable hope that my Lord had deep- ened his work of grace in my heart. Four preachers were appointed by conference for the Peninsula — Brothers Hartley, Littlejohn, John Cooper, and myself. The ene- my of souls had stirred up a great persecution against the Methodists. Brother Hartley was taken by the rulers, and put in confinement. Brother Littlejohn thought it his duty to return to Virginia. And poor brother Cooper was too unwell to travel much : so that for a considerable time I was left almost alone." This was a season peculiarly trying to the Methodist preachers. War knows no mercy ; and the mere circum- stance that the first Methodist preachers were from Eng- land, under the direction of Mr. Wesley, whose loyalty to his king and country led him to speak and write against the proceedings of the American provinces, was enough of itself to excite suspicions in the ruling party here against the preachers. The fact, also, as stated by Mi Garrettson, that most of those who had joined the socie- ties, and especially the preachers, were from principle averse to war, which led them to refuse to bear arms in their country's defence, tended to strengthen the suspi- cion, and of course to provoke opposition against them. But the following facts, which are recorded in the manu- script notes to the printed journal by Mr. Garrettson, show that some imprudences on the part of those whose exam- ple should have been of a different character, evince tha* these suspicions were not entirely without foundation. an LIFE OP THE " To human appearance," says Mr. Garrettson, " our prospects were gloomy." In this place what was called a tory company embodied themselves, and a backslidden Methodist by the name of Chancey Clowe, who was once thought to be a pious man, of considerable note in the society, laid aside his religion, and began to raise a com- pany with a view to make his way through the country to the Chesapeake to join the British, whose fleet at that time lay in the Chesapeake bay. He succeeded in rais- ing about 300 men. He did much mischief before he was detected and his plans frustrated. It was not, however, before some blood was shed, that this mob was dispersed, and the leaders brought to justice. His excellency, Cesar Rodney, at that time governor of the state, was friendly to religion. Our enemies were assiduous in their endea- vours to prejudice his mind against us ; inculcating the idea that we were tories, and ought to be crushed as a body. He insisted on knowing how many of these insur- rectionists there were of each denomination, and when they found there were only two Methodists among them ; the governor's remarks made our enemies look small before the court. They were all pardoned except C. Clowe, the leader, who was hung. This happened in the Peninsula, a tract of country lying between the Chesapeake and De- laware bays, comprehending a part of Maryland, part of Virginia, and the whole of the Delaware state. While these things were transacting among this class of people, Mr. Rodda, one of the British preachers, no doubt thinking he was doing God service, was spreading on his circuit the king's proclamation, and acting in seve- ral respects unbecoming the character of either a Christian or minister. He fled, however, to the bay, and employed a slave or slaves to take him to the British fleet, and thus just escaped with his life. The truth of history requires this record. As Philadelphia was at this time in posses- sion of the British, he was taken there, and from thence ItEV. F. GARRETTSON. 65 to his native land ; and so we got clear of a backslidden preacher. '* In the midst of these and many more troubles which might be mentioned," says Mr. Garrettson, " God ena- bled me to go forward through good and evil report, and he stood by me ; and thanks to his blessed name, he ful- filled his promise, and I went on without fear." The above circumstances, however, as related by Mr Garrettson, had a very deleterious effect upon the tran- quillity of the societies, as they tended very much to stir up the spirit of persecution against the Methodists. At such times when men's spirits are excited, they are not very accurate in distinguishing between the innocent and guilty : though the conduct of these few ought not to have implicated the whole body, yet it served as a pretence for those who wished for an excuse to reproach pure religion. ' Hence," Mr. Garrettson observes, " it was soon circu lated through the country that the Methodists were ene- mies to the American cause : and were embodying them- selves to meet the English army. A short time before this, the English preachers had embarked for Europe ; and the conduct of Mr. R., as before mentioned, had been very injurious to the persecuted flock. During this time, Mr. Asbury found an asylum at the house of good old Judge White, and I believe none but the Lord and him- self knew what he suffered for nearly twelve months- We have since seen the hand of the Lord in his preserva- tion. " My exercises of mind were very great, and my friend? in Kent, on every side, entreated me to remain withthen^, and not to travel at large at the hazard of my life. I was ready at first to consent, but had not remained more than a week among them, when my spirit was stirred within me, and I cried earnestly to the Lord to know his will. I felt an impulse to go, believing that God would stand by me, 7 66 LIFE OF THE and defend my cause. And I received such a deep sense of God in my heart, and such precious promises of his parental care over me, that I took leave of my Kent friends, and sat out without any dread of my worst enemies. I then travelled largely through the country, preaching once, twice, three, and sometimes four times a day, to listening multitudes bathed in tears. " I shall not soon forget the 24th of June, 1778. O what a wringing of hands among sinners, and crying for mercy ! God's people praising him from a sense of his divine pre- sence. O how did my heart rejoice in God my Saviour ! ( went through Cecil county, and part of Delaware state. A precious flame was kindled in many hearts, and many were brought to inquire what they should do to be saved. I visited Mr. Asbury at Judge White's, and found him very unwell. I had a sweet opportunity of preaching at his place of confinement. After some agreeable conversation with Mr. Asbury, I went on to Maryland, and had much liberty in preaching to our persecuted friends in Queen Ann. " In this place they threatened to imprison me ; but as they did not take me in the public congregation, I con- cluded they did not intend to lay hands on me : however, the next day, as I was going to Kent, John Brown, who was formerly a judge in that county, met me on the road. When I came near him, he made a full stop as if he wanted something ; apprehending nothing, I stopped and inquired the distance to Newtown. His reply was, You must go to jail, and he instantly took hold of my horse's bridle. I de- sired him in the Lord's name, to take care what he was about to do ; assuring him I was on the Lord's errand, and requesting him to show his authority for his proceed- ings. He immediately alighted from his horse, and taking a large stick that lay in the way, for some time beat me over the head and shoulders. Not being far from his quarter, he called aloud for help. I saw several persons. REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 67 as I thought, with a rope, running to his assistance. Providentially, at this moment he let go my bridle : had not this been the case, it is probable they would have put an end to my life ; for the beasts of the field seemed to be in the utmost rage. I thought the way was now open for my escape ; and being on an excellent horse, I gave him the whip, and got a considerable distance before my enemy could mount ; but he, knowing the way better than myself, took a nearer route, met me, and as he passed, struck at me with all his might ; my horse immediately made a full stop, my saddle turned, and I fell with force upon the ground, with my face within an inch of a sharp log. The blows 1 had received, together with my fall and bruises ; deprived me of my senses. Providentially, at this time, a woman passed by with a lancet. I was taken into a house, not far distant, and bled ; by which means I was restored to my senses, but it was not expected I had many minutes to live. My affliction was good for me ; and I can confi- dently say, nothing induced me to wish to stay any longer in this world, but the thirst I had for the salvation of my fellow creatures. The heavens, in a very glorious man- ner, seemed to be open ; and by faith I saw my Redeemer standing at the right hand of the Father, pleading my cause ; and the Father smiling as if reconciled to my poor soul. " I was so happy I could scarcely contain myself. My enemy was walking to and fro, in great agitation, wishing he had not molested me. I had a heart to pray for him, and desired him to sit down by me and to read such and such chapters. He did so; I told him if he did not expe- rience that blessed work he would surely go to hell. I said, if the Lord should take me away, I had a witness within me that I should go to heaven ; that I had suffered purely for the sake of our Lord's blessed gospel ; and that I freely forgave him. I entreated him to seek the salva- ■ ion of his soul, and never again to persecute the follow- 6S LIFE OF THE ers of our Lord. The poor unhappy man did not know which way to look. ' I will take you in my carriage, said he, * wherever you want to go.' Notwithstanding this, when he perceived I was likely to recover, he went to a magistrate who was nearly as bitter against us as him- self, and brought him to me. " They both appeared as if actuated by the devil. With a stern look the magistrate demanded my name : I told him ; and he took out his pen and ink, and began to write a mittimus to commit me to jail. Pray sir, said I, are you a justice of the peace 1 He replied that he was I why then, said I, do you suffer men to behave in this manner ? It such persons are not taken notice of, a stranger can with no degree of safety travel the road. * You have,' said he, ' broken the law.' How do you know that 1 answered T ; but suppose I have, is this the way to put the law in Force against me 1 I am an inhabitant of this state, and have property in it ; and if I mistake not, the law says for the first offence the fine is five pounds, and double for every offence after. The grand crime was preaching the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, in which I greatly rejoice, My enemy, said I, conducted himself more like a highway- man, than a person enforcing the law in a Christian country. Be well assured, this matter will be brought to light, said I, in an awful eternity. He dropped his pen, and made no further attempt to send me to prison. By this time the woman who bled me came with a carriage ; and I found myself able to rise from my bed and give an exhortation to the magistrate, my persecutor, and others ivho were present. " I rode to the house of old brother Dudley, and preach- ed with much delight, in the evening, to a few despised disciples, as I sat in the bed, from John xvi, 33, 1 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have oeace. In the world ye shall have tribulation, but be oV good cheer : I have overcome the world.' REV. F. GARRETTSON, 69 ;< I can truly say, what I suffered was for my good, and I think it was rendered a blessing to the people in the v icinity : for the work of the Lord was carried on in a blessed manner, and I met with very little persecution in that county afterwards. (Some time after I preached the funeral sermon of the wife of the above magistrate, and he was very much moved.) In the morning I awoke about four, and desired the friend of the house, if possible, to prepare a carriage for me by six ; as I had a long way to go and to preach twice. But being disappointed in getting a conveyance, though scarcely able to turn in my bed, my body being so bruised, I looked to the Lord for help, which was granted with sweet consolation. I mounted my horse about seven o'clock and rode about fifteen miles, and preached at eleven o'clock. O \ what a nearness I had to the Lord, while I held up a crucified Jesus to upwards of five hundred persons ! My face bruised, scarred, and bedewed with tears ! the people were for the most part much affected. I rode afterwards ten miles further, and preached to hundreds with great freedom. O ! how sweet my Saviour was to me ! It seemed as if I could have died for him. " After a few days respite I went to the place where I was beaten, and found that the persecuting spirit had in a measure subsided; and that my way was surprisingly opened. I had many hearers, and the word was much blessed to many souls. The language of the hearts of many was, Surely this must be the right way. " The Lord was very kind to me in making a discovery in a vision of the night, of the things I was to pass through ; and they came to pass just as they were made known to me; " From Queen Ann's, I again travelled through the Delaware state, and had many blessed opportunities of en- forcing the truth on the attentive multitudes that flocked together from various quarters. In the neighbourhood of Mr. S. the people had been deprived of the privilege o f 70 J.IFE OF THE hearing for some time, so that when I came among them £ found them hungering for the word. I preached from 1 Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with ban- ners V Solomon's Songs vi, 10. I was so wonderfully drawn out, and my spirit so taken up with divine things that I almost thought myself in heaven ; and many of the persecuted children of God seemed as if they would take wings and fly away. O ! it was a great day of awaken- ing power ! The lovefeast was also remarkable for the sanctifying operations of the blessed Spirit. Many of our happy friends came from afar, and returned with their hearts all on fire for God. Many happy moments have I had among those loving followers of our blessed Lord. " Sunday, July 19, 1 visited and preached to the people of Marshey Hope. I was sorely tempted of the devil ali the morning before preaching ; he strove to destroy or weaken my faith. I was afraid I should not be a means of doing any good. I wept and mourned in secret, and sensibly felt the power of darkness, tempting me to believe I never had a commission to preach the everlasting gospel. There was an unexpected congregation ; and shortly after ( stood up before the people, the devil and unbelief fled : and I gave out, 1 How shall we escape, if we neglect so ^reat salvation V Heb. ii, 3. The word ran through ali the congregation, and there was a great shaking among the people. Among the rest, a woman was struck under conviction, and she cried for mercy until she fell to the ground. Her husband was much offended, and I. was mformed that he threatened me, as he said, for killing his wife. After sermon I spent some time in praying for the distressed. In the afternoon, accompanied by many, I rode four miles, and preached from ' Cut it down, why eumbereth it the ground?' and I found myself greatly at liberty. In this place a few months ago, the people were REV. F. GARRXTXSOX, 7> fast asleep, but now many are awaking up, and several united to Jesus. " After travelling and preaching with great freedom and success in the Delaware state, I was brought on my way in the heat of July to Talbot county, in Maryland, when f laboured for about two weeks night and day with tears. Many souls were refreshed, and I thought it good for me to be there. Sweet refreshing seasons had I among those dear loving people : I shall not soon forget those mothers in Israel, sister Parrot and sister BrufF, who are now lodged in Abraham's bosom. They, I trust, lived and died witnesses of perfect love. " In August I left Talbot, and, accompanied by several friends, went to Kent Island. I preached frequently to a eery gay, high minded people, with freedom. An admi- rable change for the better has since taken place in that island. From thence I attended the August quarterly meeting in Kent, and had none to assist me except a few local preachers ; but the Lord was powerfully present, both in public worship and at the love feast. " I cannot help thinking the circumstance I am going to relate very remarkable. One day after meeting, my brother John came up to me and shook hands ; and look- ing me very wishfully in the face, without any explanation, said, 1 1 shall never see you again in this world.' It was even so ; for by the time I got round as far as Cecil, he was taken very ill ; and a few hours before I got to his house, iie was interred on the east side of the preaching house, at the place where he bade me his last farewell, not more than two weeks before. He was my second spiritual son ; and there was an uncommon intimacy between us. His dis- solution was revealed to him some time before he died. An eminent physician was with him the evening before his death ; and when his wife, speaking low to the doctor, nqaired how soon he supposed her husband would die, and was told that his life would not be prolonged until the LIFE OP THE morning; he overhearing them, said, ' Doctor, I shall no? go till eight o'clock in the morning.' He had his senses perfectly in his last moments, and the exhortation which he gave was striking. After exhorting his wife and a brother who lived with him, to stand fast in the faith, and entreating the servant to love the Lord ; in a very affecting manner, he said, ' Now there is but one thing which lies heavy on my mind, and that is, the case of two unconverted brothers. Tell them,' continued he, ' from me, I never expect to see them in heaven,' (they lived on the western shore,) f unless they repent, and turn to the Lord.' This he said to my brother Richard. Not long after they heard the message, they both sought and found the Lord. Thus were his prayers answered. At eight o'clock, as he had ; said, he resigned his spirit to his God, a witness of perfect love. He was beloved by all the people of God, and spent much of his time in the public and private exercises of religion. " This is the brother, who so solemnly covenanted with God, on a sick bed, that if his life were prolonged, he would give himself to the service of his Maker. To -how the mercy of the holy God, I must say, after his re- covery, he was as careless as ever. I did not at that time enjoy the liberty of the gospel, yet at times I endeavoured to talk to my brother, and impress his mind with the solemn promises he had made, and how merciful his heaven)} Father was in sparing him, &,c, but he would not hear, was rather displeased, and gave me to understand that he did not wish me to revive that subject. " Shortly after I was brought to an evidence of salvation by the forgiveness of sin, my brother John lay with great weight on my mind. I accordingly visited him, and while I was telling him my experience, I believe the blessed God touched his heart. With his consent I appointed a prayer meeting at his house ; many attended, and among others he was powerfully awakened and cried for mercy. Aboul REV. F. GARRETTSOft. 73 three months after this, he received a clear evidence of his acceptance with God, and walked humbly before him. In the spring of 1775, he married a pious young lady in Cecil county, after which I saw very little of him for two years, as I was travelling in distant parts ; but I have every reason to believe, that he maintained a heavenly walk with God. " In May, 1778, 1 came to his house, and found him an humble follower of Jesus, and had sweet communion with him. He had the charge of three classes, in which there- were about sixty members, walking in love and harmony, and they esteemed him as a father and guide. " He gave the greater part of his time to meeting the classes, and visiting from house to house as long as he was able. In his last sickness he praised God won- derfully, testifying to all around that he had found the blessing he had been long seeking for, the perfect love ot God. So my dear brother John lived, and so he died. I was about forty -miles off — they sent lor me, but a little before I arrived he was interred, so I did not, according to his word, see him again, neither shall I, till I see him in a better world. " In September, 1778, 1 returned to Delaware state ; and on the 5th, for the first time, preached at Mr. Williams's in Muskmelon, a kind man who had been a Quaker. I had for several day s suffered deep exercises of mind, especially while on my way to this place. The enemy of my soul suggested that the Lord was a hard master. The whole sabbath morn- ing I was sorely tempted in this way. This appointment was made for Mr. Asbury, which caused my trial to be greater. At the meeting there were between five hundred and a thousand people ; many of whom came out of curi- osity. I preached under a large spreading tree ; but the wind being high, I concluded to preach the second sermon in the house ; but the house could not contain half of the people. I gave out, ' One thing I know, whereas I was blind now I see.' Glory to God! Jesus makes use of clay. n LIFE OF THE in this our day, to open the eyes of the blind. While I was in the first place describing the blindness of the human mind, the Lord displayed his almighty power. There was a great weeping and mourning among poor sinners : I likewise felt much happiness, while describing the Lord's method in bringing sinners to himself, and in showing the blessed privileges they enjoy. How many were then con- vinced, and how many converted, I w ill not undertake to say, but I believe the number of both was great. I shall take notice of one instance of the power of God displayed at this meeting. A man noted for wickedness, came Curs- ing and swearing, as he has since told me, but under the first head of the discourse, his sins fell, as it were, with the weight of a mill stone on him. ' I would,' said he, • have run out ; but I was afraid to put one foot before the other, lest I should drop into hell, for the pit was disclosed to my view ; and i saw no way to escape it : I thought every minute I should fall ; but I held myself up by the chair. O ! said he, under the second head of your dis- course, while you were holding up Christ, I saw a beauty in him ; and without any dependence on myself, I cast my soul on Jesus ; in a moment the burden fell, my soul was happy, and I went home rejoicing in my Saviour." I knew him six years after, and had no cause to doubt the soundness of his conversion. Among the rest an officer was cut to the heart, who soon after gave up his commis- sion, and became a pious follower of Christ. I do not think I ever saw a more powerful day in a new place. After meeting the people all around were begging to have preaching at their houses. Among other places, I ap- pointed to speak at Mr. Lewis's whose heart the Lord had touched ; he lived in Mother Kill, a place famed for wick~ edness. Previously to my entering this place, the Lord awakened a woman of distinction by an earthquake ; she found peace to her soul shortly after I came to the place, ?nd about a year after, she died a witness of perfect love REV. F. GARRETTS ON. 75 1 preached at a variety of places in the country, and the work of the Lord went on prosperously. " When first I preached at Mr. Lewis's only a few came to hear ; but the numbers gradually increased ; souls were awakened, and I joined many to the society. In the second sermon, among others, a youth by the name of Caleb Boyce was awakened, and after atime became a light in the church of God. I preached at his father's, and the work of the Lord prospering, a large society was raised in that neigh- bourhood, which did honour to the cause of God ! " I bless God for it, I had many hearts, hands, and houses, opened around me; and many inquired, 'What shall I do to be saved ?' The people about Mother Kill were brought up Presbyterians, and their pastor strove by every means to keep them from the Methodists ; but all in vain ; they were convinced there was more in religion than a mere form. Multitudes gathered to hear the word, and many large societies were formed in different places. "September 12th, 1778, was the first day of my enter- ing the town of Dover, quite an irreligious place. I had desired for some time to attack this place, but had no opening, till an old gentleman came one day and heard me preach at Mr. Shaw's : his heart was touched, and he gave me an invitation to preach in the academy. Scarcely had I alighted from my horse before I was surrounded by hun- dreds; some cried one thing, some another; some said, he is a good man ; others said, nay, he deceiveth the people — and I was also accused of being a friend to King George They cried, 1 He is one of Clowe's men — hang him — hang him.' I know not what the event would have been, had not the Lord interposed. There were so many voices heard, that I had no possible chance to speak for myself ; and to all human appearance, I was in a fair way to be torn in pieces every moment : I was, however, rescued b} several gentlemen of the town, who hearing the uproar .ran to my assistance. 7fi LIFE OF THE " The chief of these were Mr. Pryor, a merchant, who was formerly awakened under Mr. Whitefield, Mr. Lockerman, and the alderman of the town. The little squire pressed through the crowd, Zaccheus like, and taking me by the hand, led me through the mob, desiring me to preach and he would stand by me. I mounted the stage at the door of the academy : the people flocked round, both within and with- out. After singing and prayer, I gave out, ' If it bear fruit, well, and if not, then after that, thou shalt cut it down.' The Lord was with me in truth. It was not difficult for me to speak so as to be heard a quarter of a mile. Many who did not come to the place, heard me from their gar- dens and windows. We had much of the presence of the Lord with us. We rarely see such a weeping company in a new place. One woman, who sat in her window more than a quarter of a mile off, was powerfully wrought upon. She knew no rest day nor night, till she found a resting place in her heart for the God of Jacob. It was thought by some of my Christian friends, who accompanied me, that very few of the -extensive congregation were left without a witness on their hearts of the truth of what was delivered : more than twenty got the word of truth so fast- ened, that they did not desire to lose it, and it terminated, I trust, in a sound conversion of the souls of many. " The mob hung their heads ; many of them were af- fected ; their ringleader said, as I was informed, he would come and ask my pardon if he thought I would forgive him : I understood he betook himself from that day to reading the Bible; and never again, to my knowledge, persecuted 'the children of God. "In the evening I lectured at Mr. Smether's, the old gentleman who had first given me an invitation to the town. Many of the chief people of the place came to hear, and we had a very solemn time. When I withdrew to my room, I was severely buffeted by Satan. I felt as misera- ble as Jonah under his withered gonrd : it seemed as thong]) REV. F. GARRETTSON, 7T i had given all to the people, and had nothing left for my- self. Ah ! said the enemy, the Lord will make use of you for the good of others, and then cast you away, as a parent does a rod after correcting the child. I was in such deep exercise, that I could scarcely close my eyes throughout the night, but passed the greater part of it away in sighs and groans and silence before the Lord. I believe I was permitted to be thus tried in order to keep me at the feet of my Saviour, and hope I shall be always thankful for his kind dealings with me. " Monday, September 13th, I preached a few miles out of town, accompanied by many, and the Lord was with us. In the afternoon I returned and found many mourning after Christ; but the devil and some of his adherents were striding to make them believe that what I had told them was a delusion ; but they were not successful, t joined those who were deeply awakened into a society ; and the Lord was with them, spreading his work and con- verting the souls of many : among the rest there was an old lady stripped of her own righteousness, who had been a communicant in the church for many years ; also ten of her children with their husbands and wives were brought under concern for their souls. I preached at her house, when sixteen or eighteen of her children and children in law were present. The old lady was mourning; but se- veral of them the Lord had set at liberty ; and before man* months he visited the old lady with his forgiving love, as well as the most of her children. Such a family as this I have seldom seen in any part of America. " The fields appeared white for harvest ; but the labour- ers were very few. I was engaged in strong cries to the Lord, to open the way and send out more ; and blessed be his name, he raised up several young men, and sent others from the western shore. I wrote to Mr. Asbury. who was at Judge White's, informing him how matters were, that his way was open into any part of the state, an<* 8 LIFE OF THE I requested him to make a visit to Dover : he did so, and brought in many whom I could not reach. The Lord gave us great favour in the sight of Dr. Magaw, minister of the church, and he proved a great blessing to the cause of Methodism. The prejudices of the people began to fall astonishingly, and hundreds were enabled to rejoice in the kingdom of grace. " The 19th of September, 1778, 1 attended the funeral of my brother, and a solemn season it was ; my youngest brother was there from Baltimore, a wild youth, but the Lord laid his convincing hand upon him, and he returned a penitent mourner. In a few weeks he returned to see me, and continued with me till the Lord set his soul at liberty, " Monday, September 20th, as I was meditating and walking through the fields, I heard the cries of one on the top of a tree : and lifting up my eyes, I saw a man about taking away his own life. A rope was tied to a limb with a noose in it, and the poor wretch bemoaning himself thus — ' O what a wretch I am ! once I had a day of grace, but now it is a gone case with me ! — I may as well put an end to my wretched life V He then made a motion to put the rope over his head, bidding the world farewell. I instantly called to him, and told him to stop a few minutes while I conversed with him. He did so ; and after some time I persuaded him to refrain from his wicked intention, and come down from the tree. In the course of our conversation, I found the good Spirit had from time to time strove with him, but he had rejected the offers of mercy. At length the arch fiend persuaded him his day of grace was past, and that he had better know his doom as quickly as possible. My being an instrument (to human appearance) of saving the life of a human being, as welf as, perhaps, an immortal soul, was no small comfort to me, M Tuesday I rode as far as Queen Anne's, and found a very prosperous work going on. I was very comfortable in my own soul ; and experienced it to be sweet to wait on REV. F. GARRETTSON. 70 God in secret. I found many hungering for the word, and had liberty in preaching. " Wednesday, September 22d, I awoke and arose early from my pillow, felt a great nearness to the Lord, and had a sweet time in secret. I visited poor John White, a brother of the Dr., and found him near death, and in his sins. In his health he was a great persecutor ; but now a penitent, beg- ging the prayers of those he once despised. — O ! how did he exhort his old companions to flee from their sins, and to take warning from him. I was greatly affected with his situation, and did not find freedom to leave him in the arms of the devil. * O!' cried he, ' I am sleeping over hell V I prayed with him frequently, and still it was impressed on my mind not to leave him. I had a travail of soul for this young man ; and retiring into a secret place, I wrestled with the Lord for him a long time; and I thought the Lord would surely grant him favour. When I returned to the house and called the family toge- ther again for prayer, several of them were happy in the Lord. In the time of prayer the Lord set his soul at liberty ; and I do not entertain a doubt but that he went to rest. — O ! what a blessed thing it is in such a case to have Christian friends! — He spoke freely of the love of God which he felt in his soul, and of his willingness to die. Num- bers attended his funeral ; and I preached a sermon with much liberty on ' I heard a voice from heaven, saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, from henceforth : yea, saith the Spirit, for they rest from their labours, and their works do follow them,' Rev. xiv, 13. The Lord was present, and I trust measurably accompanied his word. " Individuals thought me an enthusiast, because I talked so much about feelings, and having impressions to go to particular places. I know the word of God is our infalli- ble guide, and by it we are to try all our dreams and feelings. I also know, that both sleeping and waking. LIFE OF THE hings of a divine nature have been revealed to me. One night the state of the people in Somerset and Sus- sex counties seemed to be shown me. In my dream I thought I had a large circuit formed ; and the people were gathering to the banner of our Lord. On Friday, Octobei 22d, I set out to form a circuit in those counties. On Sunday 24th I arrived, and had an opportunity of preach- ing in a forest, both morning and afternoon, to hundreds who gathered to hear the new doctrine. I suppose many of them expected to be greatly diverted ; for they were a people who had neither the form nor power of godli- ness. My text was, i Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world,' John i, 29. The first -sermon was only preparatory to the second, which I preached after a few minutes intermission from * And I saw the dead, both small and great, stand before God, and the books were opened, and another book was opened, which was the book of life, and the dead were judged out of those things written in the books, according to their works,' Rev. xx, 12. I was convinced my impressions in respect to this place were not enthusiastic, for the power of God was very manifest in the congregation ; and there was weeping on every side. I suppose that more than thirty were powerfully wrought upon, all of whom not long after joined the society. I had invitations to preach from various quarters. The way was prepared in the same manner in which the Lord had revealed it to me ; and sin- ners flocked to Jesus. Some of the people among whom I went, appeared as familiar to me as if I had been there frequently before. " Monday, September 25th, I preached a funeral ser- mon in the same neighbourhood ; and the devil sent out a woman with a pistol or two to shoot me. While I wa? preaching from \ Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace, thereby good shall come unto thee,' Job xxii, 21 . she came in. and made so much noise that I stopped till REV. F. GARRETTSON. 81 they put her out and shut the door. O ! how precious this •season was to me ! The divme power was sensibly felt among the people. After the sermon many hung around me in tears, begging of me to pray for them, and likewise to visit them, and not to let the disturbance prevent my coming among them again. " The wife of Mr. Nellum, a merchant in Salisbury, was powerfully awakened, with many others who came from a distance. This part of the world was famous for gambling and dancing; but as the word spread these vices fell, until there was scarcely a frolic heard of in Broad Creek. About this place I joined many broken hearted sinners in society, many of whom, I trust, became acquainted with the power of religion. "Saturday, Nov. 7th, on my way to Talbot quarterly meeting, I preached at Mr. Parrot's. Two very gay young women, who came on a visit to their relations, were wound- ed, and I left them crying for mercy. "On Sunday, Nov. 8th, our quarterly meeting com- menced. " Monday 9th, lovefeast began in the morning and it was a refreshing time. Many rejoiced in the Lord, and spoke freely and feelingly of what God had done for them. After the lovefeast I found great freedom to preach from ' The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation/ 2 Pet. ii, 9, and we had a time not soon to be forgotten. " Tuesday, Nov. 10th, I called again at Mr. Parrot's, and found those young women dressed very plain, and under deep distress. In the evening I read and lectured on the 16th of John, and the Lord was with us of a truth. The power of the Lord was sensibly felt, and his presence filled the room, where about fifteen of us were met for prayer. Brother Hartley, my brother Richard, (who had come from some distance to see me,) and myself, continued in prayer,, including the time we spent in singing and exhorting, from about eight o'clock, till nearly two ; and in that time five &2 LIFE OF THE souls were set at liberty : the two young women of whom I have spoken, Dr. White and his two sisters, who came from a distance to quarterly meeting. This was an extraordinary night to my poor heart, and to the souls of most present. " Wednesday, Nov. 1 1th, greatly refreshed, and strength- ened, I set out again on my way to Somerset, and found my young disciples growing in grace, as well as increasing in number. In my way round, having an invitation from Mr. 'Nellum, I preached in Salisbury, where the Lord began a blessed work ; but enemies were raised up against me, who sent the sheriff with a writ to take me to jail. After he served it on me, he told me I must be confined. I told him I was a servant of the Lord Jesus, and that if he laid a hand on me, it would be like touching the apple of his eye. He was afraid to injure me : and friends and enemies fol- lowed me to the next preaching place. Many assembled from all quarters, and I preached from ' Behold, ye de- spisers, and wonder and perish ; for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you,' Acts xiii, 41. It appeared to me as if the place was shaken by the power of the Lord ; many of my enemies trembled like a leaf; I had faith to believe they had no power to stop me; and so it proved, for I went on my way rejoicing in God my Saviour. Thi& day one soul was set at liberty. " I preached at a place called Quantico, and a similar work broke out there. The Lord raised a society, and many souls were converted; among others, old sister Rider, who was formerly a hearer of Mr. Whitefield. was raised up as a pillar in our society ; and she be- came a mother indeed to the preachers. This society was mostly composed of young people, who were as tender as hmbs." In a note Mr. Garrettson gives the following account of ihe manner in which he was first introduced to the above place : REV. P. GARRETTSOtf. 82 1 1 will briefly narrate the method the Lord took to bring me first to Quantico. Old Mr. and Mrs. Rider, who were on a visit among their friends, heard me preach, and were much affected. After the congregation was dismissed they advanced toward me in tears, and the old lady spoke as follows, — ' Many years ago we heard Mr. Whitefield preach, and we were brought to taste the sweetness of religion. Till we heard you, we had not heard a gospel sermon for about twenty years. The first time I heard you preach, I knew it was the truth, but I only had a little spark left. Yesterday we. heard you again, and the little spark was blown up to a coal; and glory to God, to day the coal is blown up to a flame. We cannot hide our- selves any longer from you ; our house and hearts are open to receive you, and the blessed word you preach.' The clear old people seemed to see, feel, and think alike. I went to their house, and it appeared as if there were many in that vicinity just ripe for the gospel. O ! there was a sweet gathering to the fold of Jesus. " In April, 1779, 1 was led still further into the wilder- ness, and though I met with a variety of trials, and was severely buffeted of Satan, yet my Lord was with me daily. Although in those new places I had none to converse with, at first, who knew the Lord, yet Jesus was blessed company to me in my retirement. Often the wilderness was my closet, where I had many sweet hours in communion with God. Whose heart can help rejoicing to think of the kind condescension of our blessed Lord to permit them to have such heavenly converse with him ! " Saturday, April 3d, I preached at a place called the Sound, for the first time, near the sea shore, to about two hundred people. They had been as sheep without a shep herd; but I preached not without hope. There were several who are under the appellation of Baptists, in this place ; and one of their preachers who spoke after me, cried down baby sprinkling, as he called it, I requested LIFE OF THE the people to attend the next day at an appointed place and I would preach on the subject. *' Sunday, April 4th, a number of people assembled, and I preached from ' Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is bap- tized shall be saved ; but he that believeth not, shall be damned,' Mark xvi, 15, 16. Very great attention was paid; and as my hearers were principally Presbyterians and Churchmen, a vindication of infant baptism was very agree- able to them. If it was of no other service, it prepared their minds for what was to follow ; for they knew not who or what I was. I told them that after a few minutes inter- mission I would preach again ; which I did from these words, f If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear V 1 Pet. iv, 18. This day will not soon be forgotten : the work of the Lord broke out. Though I continued more than three hours in the two sermons, the people, after I concluded, appeared as it nailed to their seats ; for they did not seem as if they wished to move from the place ; and weeping was on »:very side. " Monday, April 5th, I preached still nearer to the sea ; and the same convincing power ran through the audience some of them thought but little of walking ten or twelve miles to hear the word. I appointed a day to read and explain the rules of our society ; and many came together I preached with great freedom : then explained the nature and design of our society ; and desired such of the weeping ilock as wished to join, to draw near and open their minds. I examined and admitted about thirty ; but being weary. I declined taking any more at that time. Weeping and mourning were heard among the people. " I went to a place some distance off, and preached to a gazing company : and while I was speaking, a man started from his seat, saying, 1 Sir, it is a shame for you to jjo on as you do ; why, do you think you can make us fee REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 85 neve your doctrine is true?' I stopped immediately, and desired him to point out wherein it was false. I conversed with him before the people, until he asked my pardon, being sorry he had exposed his ignorance. As he was o man of some note, it proved a blessing to the people. " I returned to the Sound, and preached two, three and frequently four times in a day. They were so hungry for the word, that many would follow me to the house where I was to stay, inquiring, 1 What they should do to be saved V The devil in this, as well as other places, had his factors : one man of note set up a reading meet- ing in opposition to the society ; but the power of God reached his heart, so that he gave it up and joined the society. Several hired a clergyman of the Church to come and preach against us. He came once, and appointed to come again ; but before the time, I met him on the road, and told him 1 was the man against whom he preached in such a place. I asked him if he had ever heard a Methodist? He told me he never had. After explaining to him our doctrine, and conversing with him more than an hour, he promised that he would never do the like again, and confessed that he was led into it by a few individuals : and his people could never after persuade him to preach against us. " In this neighbourhood I have preached to a thousand or fifteen hundred souls assembled together under the trees ; and many were brought to experience justification by faith * * Respecting the people in this place, Mr. Gariettson makes the following obserrations in his notes to this part of his journal, thai an admirable change soon took place for the better in this region oi country. When he first went among them the people, their land and houses, with but few exceptions, were poor. What was worst of all, they were destitute of even the form of godliness. Many oi them preferred fishing and hunting to cultivating the land. After the gospel came among them, religion spread rapidly, and the people berame industrious, and hnppy : left off gambling, tilled their lantT >6 LIFE OF THE i( My mind was amazingly exercised, and I believe the Lord permitted this affliction for the humiliation of my soul. I was frequently afraid, lest after preaching to others, I myself should be a castaway ; and many hours I have spent in secret, weeping before the Lord. Some- times I was tempted to think I did more harm than good, and that the people, after a while, would be worse than ever : or that they were* hypocrites. At other times, the cross was so heavy a little before I had to preach, that I was constrained, like the prophet, to cry out, J The burden of the Lord !' But at such particular times I was sure to have a happy meeting. O ! to grace how great a debtor, Daily I'm constrain'd to be : Let that grace now like a fetter, Bind my wandering soul to thee. One day ! was wandering through the wilderness in search of poor lost sheep, and called at several houses , but they did not want me. At length night came on ; and I had been all day, at least from the morning, with- out any refreshment for myself or horse. I finally found myself lost in a thick wilderness, called the Cyprus Swamp. The night was dark and rainy ; and after wandering about for a considerable time, I concluded to take up my lodg- ing as well as I could ; for this purpose I stopped my horse : but before I got down, I espied a light, by following which I was led to a house, where I was most kindly entertained. I sat down, and found my soul very happy anrl thankful The man of the house fixed his eyes upon me, and at last built houses, and attended to their spiritual interests, so that, says he, " after a few years, in retracing my footsteps in this country, 1 found that my younger brethren in the ministry who had succeeded me, had been blessed in their labours, and every thing appeared tc - wear a different aspect. Experience had taught many that there is nothing like the gospel in its purity to meliorate both the tern poral and spiritual condition of man : and my prayer is that it may find its way throughout the whole world, to the destruction of id( n try and infidelity.*' UEV. P. GARRETTSON. 87 said, ' What are you, or who are you ? for I am sure I never saw such a man as you appear to be.' I told him I was a follower of our blessed Saviour ; and asked him if he would join me in prayer ; I then read the 7th chapter of Matthew, and lectured from it ; and found great sweet- ness in prayer. After I withdrew to bed, the wife said to the husband, ' That is a man of God ; one whom the Lord hath sent to reform the world.' When I arose in the morning, he asked me to what place I was bound, and offered his service and company. I perceived that the Lord had reached his heart ; and I now saw for what pur- pose the crook was in my lot the day before. I asked the woman if she had a love for the Lord 1 She said, 1 Yes.' I asked if she ever prayed? She replied, * I pray always. I asked if she knew her sins forgiven ? She said, 1 she did not ; but she knew that she should go to heaven when she died. And,' said she, e l know that you are a servant of God ; but you cannot teach me, for I understand all the Scriptures, and I know what kind of death I am to die. r After breakfast we went on our way, and as we rode the man asked me what I thought of his wife. I told hint she was a mystery to me. ' Why,' said he, * some time ago she was taken in a kind of melancholy way, and no one knew what was the matter ; for thirteen days she would neither eat nor drink, and frequently she would embrace the pitcher and kiss it, but would not take a drop, till at length she became so weak, that she betook herself to her bed ; and the thirteenth day of her fasting, a number of people waited around, expecting to see the last of her ; but all on a sudden she raised up, and said, " You thought that mine was a bodily disorder ; but it was not. Nov/," said she, " I know that my Maker loves me." They gave her food and she eat as heartily as ever : and she has been in that serious way ever since.' She appeared to be a very solemn woman, and I had a hope that the Lord had taken her into his favour. bb LIFE OP THE " On my return I called on him again, and conversed more fully with the woman, who continued to believe that man could not teach her. I suppose the people in this part of the country had scarcely ever heard any kind of preach- ing, and knew no more about the new birth than the In- dians. I met a man one day, and asked him if he was acquainted with Jesus Christ. * Sir/ said he, ' I know not where the man lives.' Lest he should have misunderstood me, I repeated my question ; and he answered, ' I know not the man.' "Glory to God! I preached in a variety of places through this wilderness ; and many were convinced and brought to the knowledge of the truth. They built a church, and the Lord raised up several able speakers among them. There was an amazing change both in the disposition and manners of the people. The wilderness and solitary places began to bud and blossom as the rose ; and many hearts did leap for joy. Hundreds who were asleep in the arms of the wicked one awoke, and were Enquiring the way to Zion with their faces thitherward. " As my brethren in rotation began to travel largely through this part of the work, I had an opportunity to visit the friends in various parts of Maryland ; and found it good for me to be among old established Christians. " On the 1st of June I returned back to the Sussex circuit in Delaware; and June 6th I preached with great freedom at Thomas L.'s in the Fork, from ' Friend, how oomest thou in hither, not having on a wedding garment/ Matt, xxii, 12. I rode six miles and met brother M. We held a watch night, and I had much satisfaction in hear- ing several of the exhorters, and gave them notes of per- mission to speak. " Sunday, June 7th, I spent the morning in retirement, sorely tempted by the devil ; and after I went to my ap- Dointed place, my mind was so bewildered, I thought there yvas not a text in the Bible that I could speak from. REV. F. GARRETTSON. 89 I felt myself less than the least. At eleven o'clock there was such a number collected, that I was obliged to preach under the trees. I had been before the people but a few minutes, till the Lord blessed me with great light, and the Bible seemed all plain to me." In reference to silent meetings, Mr. Garrettson has the following very pertinent observations among his manu- script notes. " It is said, in favour of silent meetings, that Job's friend* waited in silence seven days, and then they began to speak. Why was this silence ? Before Job's affliction he was thought to be a very good man. His friends were in council to make up an opinion respecting his case. It was a received opinion with many in that country and age, that the Almighty would not lay so heavy an affliction upon a good man. From such an opinion, their decision must be, that Job was a bad man, or that his Maker dealt un- justly by him : but the judgmenr of the counsellors was, that the Almighty was perfect in wisdom and goodness, and that Job was a bad man ; and having made up their minds on the occasion, they began to load Job with accu- sations of base hypocrisy, and to preach to him repentance, or banishment from the presence of God. Had they known how to reconcile those deep afflictions with the mercy and goodness of God, they might have begun their discourse when they first approached Job ; and not have accepted a false vision. "I grant, in several instances, the prophets waited in silence ; but who cannot see the difference between fore- telling future events, and declaring those sacred truths of the gospel which have been revealed to every regenerated child of God, and especially to his ministers ? Before a per- son professes to be an ambassador of Jesus Christ, he must know that he has a commission from him, and the pious man with the commission, receives a holy unction, and if he is faithful, he will be taught every necessary truth, 9 90 LIFE OF THE and certainly he will be taught to be instant in season and out of season. I know that the nearer we live to the fount- ain head, the more plentifully will the water flow. -A Christian minister should always have the holy spark with him, and certainly he should have the faculties of his soul so well regulated, as to know when to speak, and when to be silent. I myself one day heard three men speak, after brooding over it for nearly an hour, and I verily believe I have heard a pious sister in a lovefeast speak more to the purpose in fifteen minutes. What would you think of E. II., who by some is cried up to be a great man, after pro- fessing to have waited a considerable time for the Spirit, rising up and declaring that there is no more merit in the blood of Jesus Christ, than in the blood of any common ani- mal, and inveighing against almost all the duties enjoined by the Christian religion ? I speak thus, because I think it a pity that any re'spectable society of professing Christians should be imposed on by such men, and such doctrine. " Whenever the Lord begins his work in any place, the devil and his children are sure to rise up against it. After preaching, I set out for my afternoon's appointment, ac- companied by about thirty, whose hearts the Lord had touched. I was pursued by a party of men who waylaid me, and the head of the company, with a gun presented, commanded me to stop. Several of the women who were with us surprised me ; they were in an instant ofT their horses, and seizing hold of his gun, held it until I passed by. That same man was a penitent some time after, and became a member of the society. I went on and preached at old Mr. T 's to a large attentive company, and united a prosperous society. " It appeared as if hundreds in the congregation were more or less wrought upon, and many appeared to be broken hearted. We could never get a society in this place till now. I know the day when the Lord began his work in the Fork : I preached from these words, ' And in REV. F. GARRETTSON. 91 hell he lifted up his eyes, being in torment ;' and intended, if I saw no fruit, to leave them : but blessed be God, he visited the place in mercy, and the devil's kingdom is like to receive a wonderful shock." About this time Mr. Garrettson laboured under peculiar and heavy temptations, often repelling them by earnest prayer to God, wrestling in holy violence for the victory. He continued, however, steadfast in his Master's work, preaching successfully to large congregations. Under a feeling sense of his inward conflicts, he says, u What is the devil afraid of? Why does ho chase me in this manner ? I do not know that I have given way to sin, either inwardly or outwardly ; and yet he tells me frequently, ' my com- mission is run out, and that my labours never will be bless- ed again.' I have had great strugglings in my mind to know my standing ; not that I doubt my adoption into the family of heaven ; but respecting my salvation from all inward sin. From this quarter have arisen my greatest fears, for more than twelve months past. I know that my Lord has given me power to serve him, and that I love him supremely ; but these are comprehensive words, * to love the Lord with all the heart.' My prayers have been frequent, being desirous of a stronger assurance of this perfect love which casteth out fear. I have thought some- times that I should doubt no more ; but fearfulness has again assaulted me. "This day I felt strangely : I was so burdened, not with guilt, blessed be God ! that I could scarcely bear my own weight. None know what I mean, but such as have re- ceived a commission to deliver a message for the Lord. The prophet knew when he cried out, 1 The burden ol the Lord ;' Jonah knew something of it when he was called to go to Nineveh, and Jeremiah was well acquainted with exercises of this kind. It is a sweet thing to preach the gospel, but the cross is to be borne. ' £ I crossed the river and went to my appointment, which +2 LIFE OF THE vas at J. More's on Broak creek. The people assemblea from all quarters ; and many came out, some from afar who were enemies to the way. I had scarcely opened my mouth when my burden dropped off, and in an uncom- mon manner the Holy Scriptures were opened to me, and the flame ran from heart to heart. I felt as though I had almost faith enough to remove mountains. One thing was noticed, not only by my friends, but likewise by those who were enemies, — there had been a great drought, so that the vegetable creation hung in mourning ; and it was thought by many they would lose their crops if it con- tinued much longer. In a particular manner I was led to pray for rain ; and a few minutes after the congregation was dismissed, the face of the sky was covered with black- ness, and we had a plentiful shower. This greatly sur- prised and convinced the people. I was now happy enough to see the prosperity of the young converts. While the Lord was plentifully watering the earth, I collected the family for prayer ; and we had a great time of refresh- ing from the presence of the Lord. My soul was so happv while the Lord was uttering his voice in thunder, that it seemed as if I saw, by an eye of faith, the blessed Jesus ; and the glorified company around him, in exalted strains, singing and shouting his praise. And this joy continued with me till some time in the night ; I then sweetly rested in the arms of my Lord. "Thursday, June 11th, I preached to a poor people Some who came from a distance thought I pointed my discourse at them. Thursday was a very solemn day of fasting. I have noticed that the evil one is more spiteful on my fast days than at other times. But I feel there is a necessity of keeping my body under, lest after preaching to others I should be a castaway. My public labours this day, as I was among a curious people, were to reconcile some seeming contradictions in Scripture. After I had done, I was warmly opposed by an enemy to the cross ot REV. P. GARUETTS ON. 9:3 Christ. I visited one of the spiritual children of Mr. Whitefield, on her death bed ; and I trust her soul was happy in the Lord. " In the evening I met and examined a large society, and we had a comfortable time. I had a sweet night's rest, and awoke at my usual hour with a happy mind, and prayed earnestly to the Lord, to grant that every moment of my life might be given to him. " I rode to Cluantico to visit the young lambs. I ex- pected that the Lord intended to do something for them, for the devil pursued me all the way even till I got to the place. An unexpected congregation assembled in the afternoon, and the Lord was with us of a truth. Several were set at liberty ; and the cries of the distressed were heard — O Jesus, thou art lovely to my soul ! — Thou hast overcome me with thy loving kindness. I found great freedom in meeting the society, and in the morning I met them again, and a precious time we had. " Sunday, June 14th, I felt this morning as if the Lord intended to do great things for the people. I spent the morning in wrestling with the Lord for a blessing on my la- bours. I preached at old brother Rider's at eleven o'clock : the old judge who came as a hearer gave great attention, and we had a melting time. I rode ten miles to Salisbury; when I came in, the man of the house took me into a room, and told me I had better leave the town immediately ; for a mob was waiting and intended to send me to jail. ' They came to my house last night/ said he, *■ expecting to find you here ; but when they found you not, they laid hold on me, and dragging me down the chamber stairs, hauled me along the street till my arms were as black as ink from my wrists to my shoulders ; and I know not what would have been the consequence, if I had not been rescued by a magistrate.' This mob was made up of what they call the first people in the county. I told my informer that I had come to preach my Master's gospel, and that I was 9* 94 UFE OF THE not afraid to trust him with body and soul. Many came out to hear me ; I understood the mob sent one of their company to give information of the most convenient time to take me. While I was declaring ' The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation, and reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished,' the heart of the spy, who sat close by me, was touched, and tears plentifully ran down his face. After service he returned :o his company, and told them I had preached the truth, and if they laid a hand on me he would put the law in i'orce against them. They withdrew to their homes, with- out making the slightest attempt upon me. O, who would not confide in so good a God ! After our blessed meeting -.vas over, I rode three miles and had a pleasant time with a few of my friends. Glory be to God ! he is carrying on a gracious work about this place. All this week I spent in preaching and visiting the young societies. " Sunday, June 21, I was to preach at the Sound. In the morning I intended meeting the society at eight o'clock ; but such a crowd gathered that I declined it ; and preached a sermon. At twelve about fifteen hundred were assembled under the spreading trees, and the Lord made bare his arm. After a short intermission, I preach- ed another sermon ; and it seemed as if the whole country would turn to the Lord. While preaching I was so won- derfully drawn out, that it appeared to me as though I saw our blessed Saviour working prosperously through the assembly. Weeping was on every side. I spent a week in the neighbourhood, preaching several times a day, besides visiting and conversing with the distressed. I believe this work was greatly hindered by the Baptists, who came among the people, drew off a few, and set others to dis- puting about the decrees, and their method of baptizing. " Sunday, June 28th, when I came to brother Williams's in Muskmelon, I found that aNicolite preacher had been mowing his seed in the young society, and endeavouring to REV. F. GARRETTSON. 96 destroy the new-born children. He told them, ' It was a sin to wear any kind of clothing that was coloured ; and that they ought never to pray but when they had an imme- diate impulse, and that it was wrong to sing.' Many peo- ple came together, but I perceived a considerable alteration : for some- would not sing at all, and others sat both in time of singing and prayer. Some had taken off the borders of their caps, and condemned those who would not do as they had done : in short, some of my own spiritual chil- dren would scarcely hear me, because I wore a black coat I gave out my text, ' The kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost,' Rom. xiv, 17. The Lord made bare his arm and humbled me among them ; and there was a shaking, con- vincing power. After sermon was ended, I met the society and excluded the leader and one or two more ; those that remained seemed to grow in grace more than ever. I spent the week in Mother Kill, and several other places, and was greatly comforted among the growing societies. " Sunday, July 5th, I preached in Dover a little after sunrise, then rode four miles and preached at brother B.'s at nine^ to hundreds who stood and sat under the trees for want of room in the house, from * Behold a sower went forth to sow,' Matt, xiii, 3. I was in my element, and we had a great display of the power of the Lord. Many about this place are inquiring, ' What shall I do to be saved?' I rode on six miles and preached at one o'clock to a list- ening multitude, under the trees in Mother Kill. O how good the Lord was to my soul ! It was little trouble for me to preach, for the Scripture seemed all open. I rode five miles and preached again in Muskmelon at brother W.'s, and had I think more freedom than at either of the other places. At the last sermon there was a Quaker preacher present, and after meeting was ended he told a person that I * spake by the Spirit, if ever man did.' The person said it was my fourth sermon that day ; he then altered his 96 LIFE OP THE mind, and replied, ' If that was the case, I was a deceiver, for it was nothing but will worship.' This day I stood upwards of six hours in the four sermons, and concluded about sunset. My spirit was so united to my Jesus, and so transported, that I scarcely felt the fatigues of the day ; and the only sustenance I had taken was a little milk and water. I have seldom seen a greater day than this : I do not know but I may say thousands are flocking to Jesus, There is a childlike fondness in these people, and I feel unwilling to leave them ; but the will of the Lord be done. " Monday, July 6th, having it on my mind, I set out to make an inroad through the Delaware state, where I had never been : I had appointed a friend, who had given me an invitation to Lewis Town, to meet me at such a time, and conduct me through the country : so that numbers had knowledge of my intention to pass that way. All along the road many were standing at their doors and windows gazing, and I could hear some of them say, as I passed, 1 There he is;' * O,' said another, ' he is like another man/ I rode about thirty miles and got to my appointment about three ; about four o'clock I began, and shortly after I gave out the text, J. Wolf, brother to the man at whose house I was to preach, came to the door with a gun and a drum, and several other utensils, and after beating his old drum a while, he took the gun, and was dodging about as though lie was taking aim to shoot me : this greatly terrified the women, so that there was nothing but confusion. I then stopped and withdrew to a private room. Soon after, the town squire and several other magistrates came, and among the rest the Presbyterian minister. The town squire com- manded him to depart immediately to his own house, or behave himself, otherwise he would send him to jail. Wc now had peace, and I found great freedom to finish my sermon. I have no doubt but the Lord began this work. The minister told some of the people afterwards that I held out nineteen errors. The town squire told me the court house was at my service, and I should be welcome to his house. REV. F. GARRETTSON. 91 u Wednesday, July 8th, my old enemy W — f by nature and name, set on by a few others, came into the court house while I was preaching, not with a gun and drum : but with fire which he put in the chimney, and then began to heap on wood, though the day was exceedingly warm finding that this did not disturb me, he brought in a bell, and rung it loudly through the house. I stopped and inquired if any would open a large private room. Many were offered, and I withdrew and finished my sermon al the house of a kind widow woman. In spite of all the opposition, the word found the way to the hearts of the hearers ; and though severely tempted of the devil, and persecuted by many of his servants, my heart was with the Lord ; and many were the sweet moments I had in secret. "Sunday, July 12th, my appointments were at nine in the morning, and three in the afternoon, that I might not interfere with the hours of the Church. The court house was crowded at nine, and a most pleasant time I had. In the morning it rained, so that Mr. did not make his appearance, and as the people were waiting, the squire said I had better begin my second sermon. Just as I began he arrived, and waited till I was nearly done ; and then the bell rung over my head for church, but the peo- ple would not move until I concluded, after which we all went into church ; but his pulpit and that of Mr. W. rang against me, and all such runabout fellows. His having the bell rung over my head much offended, not only those who were my friends, but many of his also. The more they preached and spoke against me, the more earnestly did the people search their Bibles to know whether these things were so. " I had an appointment a few miles from the town by the side of a river ; and some declared that if I went there they would drown me. I went and found a large con course of people, and preached with much freedom, but no man assaulted me. I had five miles to my afternoon's 9S LIFE OF THE appointment ; and when I had got two miles on my way I looked behind and saw a. man dressed like a soldier, riding full speed, with a great club or stick in his hand- I now found it necessary to exercise my faith. When he came up to me he reached out his hand, saying, ' Mr. Garrettson, how do you do ? I heard you preach at such a time, and believe your doctrine to be true ; I heard you was to be abused at the river to day, and I equipped my- self as you see me, and have rode twenty miles in your defence, and will go with you if it is a thousand miles, and see who dare lay a hand upon you.' Friend, said I, the Scripture tells us that vengeance belongs to God, and not to man. 'Very true, sir,' said he, ' but I think I should be justifiable in so glorious a cause.' I travelled and preached all through the forest, and the Lord enlarged my heart, and gave me many precious souls ; for numbers were brought to inquire after religion. " Saturday, July 18th, I went to the Fork, accompanied by my dear old friends brother and sister White. July 19th, I preached again in the open air to many hundreds ; and found that the work of the Lord was still going on. In the afternoon I preached to almost as many at old Mr. Turpin's. His daughter Rebecca is a very happy young woman. A few months since she was in the height of the fashion, but now sees the evil and folly of these things. " Monday, July 20th, I went to preach at a house by the river, on the edge of Dorset county ; here the Lord had greatly weakened Satan's kingdom. I preached at the door to abundantly more than could get into the house. I was so surprisingly drawn out, and the people so engaged , that I could not conclude under two or three hours. From the looks of the people, I should not have thought that I had an enemy in the congregation. After sermon, being much spent I withdrew. Shortly after a person came to me and said, ' two men wanted to see me.' I told him to desire them to walk up, thinking they were persons in di&* REV. F. C.ARRETTSON. 99 iress, and wanted instruction ; but when I saw them I dis- covered wickedness in their very looks. One of them was a magistrate, and he was a Churchman ; the other was a Presbyterian, and he was a disputant. The magistrate brought him out in order to confute me in points of reli- gion : and then his intention was to send me to prison. 1 desired them to sit down, and the disputant began ; he said but a few words until I asked him if his soul was con- verted to God ? I charge you, said I, in the presence of him before whom we shall shortly stand, tell me, is your soul converted to God ? Do you know that your peace is made with God 1 He was struck, and knew not what to say ; but at last he said, ? I do not know that I am.' Then, replied I, you are in the way to hell : and I began to exhort him to repent, and turn to the Lord. I think I never before saw a man so confused. He made at- tempts to quote Scripture, but could get hold of none. The magistrate seeing in what a condition his disputant was, in a rage 'said, 1 Sir, do you know the laws of this state 1 You have not taken the oath, and you have broken the law by preaching ; you must go to jail.' I bless God, said I, that I am not afraid of a jail. They withdrew, and after I had eaten dinner I mounted my horse and set out to attend my afternoon's appointment ; but a sheriff met me a few rods from the house, and commanded me to stop. Many of my friends gathered around me, and offered to be security for my appearance at court ; but I told them I would give no security. I had faith to believe that he had not power, or at least would not be permitted to stop me, I looked him in the face, and said, I am going on the Lord's errand, and if you have power, here I am, take me ; but remember that the God against whom you are fighting, who made yonder sun, is just now looking down upon you ; and I know not but that he will crush you to the earth, if you persist in fighting so furiously against him. I am now on my way to Philadelphia, to preach the glorious gospel of 100 LIFE OP THE my Redeemer ; and the consequence of your stopping me m this manner will be rueful. After conversing with him a few minutes, I perceived his countenance fall, and he said, ' It is a pity to stop you ;' and so turned his back upon me. I went rejoicing on my way, accompanied by many of my kind friends, some of whom were weary and heavy laden ; and had an opportunity in the afternoon to inculcate precious truths on as many people as could crowd into a large house standing by the river side. " After attending several quarterly meetings, where we had a very large number of people, and great displays of the power of convincing and converting grace, I pursued my journey to Philadelphia, accompanied by several of my friends from that city. In my way I preached at Mr. Sad- ler's in Queen Anne's : and after preaching, to get clear of a mob which they expected would surround the house, (for there were many violent opposers in this partofthe county,) I rode, accompanied by a tender friend, the best part of the night, and got into another county. The next day my friends met me : we then went on together and arrived safely in Philadelphia." CHAPTER VI. Leaves the Peninsula, and at the request of Mr. Asbury goes U Philadelphia — Society there in a depressed state — British army had just left the city — Citizens returned to their employments — Success in New Jersey — Conversion of an old man— Remarkable account of a young woman. Mr. Garrettson had laboured in the Peninsula in the manner related in the preceding chapter about fifteen months. During this time several new circuits had been formed, and the work of God had prospered in his hands ; so much so that the number returned in the societies in REV. F. GARRETTSON. 101 Delaware and Kent county, was 1288 in the year 1779. When the man,y difficulties they had to contend with, in consequence of the war which was now raging with in- creased violence, are considered, we can but admire the good hand of God that was with them in the awakening and conversion of so many souls. Notwithstanding these obstacles, Mr. Garrettson was enabled to prosecute his labours in the gospel with increased vigour and persever- ance, and with great success ; so that at the time we are now speaking of, there were no less than forty nine preach- ers and 8577 members in the societies. Mr. Asbury wa^ still confined, principally at Judge White's, so that the chief management of the affairs fell upon Mr. Garrettson, so far as active labour was concerned. It is true he cor- responded with Mr Asbury, and acted according to his advice and under his direction. It is not to be wondered at that " all manner of evil" should be said of a man who was thus instrumental in the hand of God in giving such a shock to Satan's kingdom. •Having given such evident proofs of his designation to the work of the Christian ministry by the supreme Head of the church, and of his skilfulness in conducting the spiritual interests of the societies, Mr. Asbury requested him to leave his present field of labour, and pay a visit to the city of Philadelphia, the society in this place being in a very depressed state. The British army had been for a considerable time quartered in this city, and at this time had just taken their departure. The confusion occasioned by this state of things, tended very much to obstruct the work of God. Previously to the entrance of the British into the city, many of the inhabitants had fled into the country, and it was some time even after they had departed, before the citi- zens returned and arranged their affairs, so as to feel them- selves in a settled state. " I stayed," says Mr. Garrettson, " about two months in Philadelphia, and though I did nor 10 102 LIFE OF THE see much fruit of my labour, I found many of my deaf friends near and precious to me." Being relieved in the city by Mr. Cox, he took a tour into several parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, " preaching," he says, " from ten to twelve sermons a week. I bless God for the prosperous journey he gave me through the state of New Jersey : several were awakened; and some brought to know the Lord Jesus. " One day after preaching, an old man came to me and said, all in tears, ' This day I am a hundred and one years old, and this is my spiritual birth day.' The dear man's soul was so exceedingly happy, that he appeared to be ready to take his flight to heaven. " I preached at a new place, where the congregation consisted mostly of young people, from ' The Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost,' Luke xix, 10. We had a wonderful display of the power of the Lord. After I had finished my discourse, the young people hung around each other crying for mercy. Many, no doubt, will praise the Lord eternally for that day. A remarkable circumstance happened respecting a young woman who was brought up in the Quaker persuasion. It pleased the Lord to awaken her when very young. She experienced the pardoning love of God, and continued to enjoy it for some time. By degrees, however, she got off her watch, having none to strengthen but many to draw her away. She at length fell from God, and became as wild and trifling as ever. Soon after this she was entirely deprived of her speech ; the enemy of her soul persuaded her to believe that it was a sin for her to do any kind of work, or even to dress herself ; and if they gave her a book to read she thought it sinful to turn over a leaf, and would read no more unless some one would perform this office for her. It was impressed on her mind that there was a people in a particular place 'who served the Lord ; and if she could get among them, they would be a means of restoring her to REV. F. GARRETTSON, 103 her speech. She had never heard of a Methodist; and the place which was revealed to her was nearly twenty miles from her residence, where there was a young, loving society. Though she knew nothing of the way, she sat off to find that place and people. Her family missing her, pursued and brought her back. Not long after she made a more successful attempt, and found the society. The Lord revealed her case to them. There was a preacher present, Mr. Daniel Raff, who consented to call a meeting, and they cried to the Lord in her behalf that day and the next. She then went into a private room, kneeled down tf> prayer, and continued there till the Lord blessed her soul At the same time her tongue was loosened, and she could speak forth the praises of Israel's God. She had been dumb about two years. Some time after I came into this neighbourhood and sent word to her mother that I would preach such a day at her house. When the day arrived, I took the young woman home, accompanied by many friends, and we were received like angels : some thought the Methodists could work miracles. Many of the friends and neighbours came, and could not but observe how angelic this young woman appeared. She was now able to speak and work as well as usual. I bless the Lord who gave me great freedom in preaching on this remarkable occasion. The people seemed to believe every word which was delivered. The old lady was ready to take us in her arms, being so happy, and so well satisfied with respeel to her daughter." 04 LIFE OF THI CHAPTER VII. Returns to the Peninsula — Introduction of Methodism into Dor iet county — Peculiar exercises, and happy deliverance— Escape? an attempt to take his life — Taken by a mob — Imprisonment of J Hartley — Maltreated and imprisoned— Happy in his own soul — h set at liberty — Strange visions of the night. Having completed his mission in this part of the country, •n the autumn of the same year he made his second visit to the Peninsula, the place where the Lord of the harvest had given to him so many souls. Here he travelled exten- sively through the winter, preaching with his usual dili- gence and success. The following account of the commencement and pro- gress of the work of God in Dorset county, where the citi- zens were principally members of the Church of England, is taken from his printed journal and his manuscript notes. It began by means of a young lady who was niece to Judge E., of Dorset county, and sister to the wife of the honour- able Mr. Basset. Being on a visit, she fell in company with the Methodists, by whose means she was awakened to a sense of her lost and guilty state, and finally converted to God, and so became a pious follower of the blessed Jesus. When she returned to her uncle's in Dorset, they thought she was beside herself. She, however, persever- ing in her Christian course, became instrumental in the conversion of her sister Mary, and a few others. Her sis- ter became as zealous for God as herself ; and soon after another sister, Mrs. Basset, became a most blessed woman. " I have no doubt," says Mr. Garrettson, "but that she lived and died a bright witness of sanctification." The honourable Mr. Basset was an eminent lawyer in fhe state of Delaware. After he embraced religion, he- became a member of congress, was afterwards appointed me of the United States' judges ; and finally, a governor REV. F. GARRETTSON. 105 of the state of Delaware. The substance of what follows Mr. Garrettson says he had from Mr. Basset's own mouth At the time of the conversion of his lady and her sisters, who all three were eminently pious, Mr. Basset being a man of the world, and moving in the higher circles of fash- ionable society, became greatly distressed in mind on ac- count of the Methodists, so that he had but little rest day or night. A court being soon to be held in Lewiston, in which he had a cause to manage as counsel, he concluded that when that should be completed, he would sell his pro- perty, and move to some distant part of the country, so as to rid himself of the " noisy Methodists." One night dur- ing the session of the court, he went to his bed chamber to rest. After falling into a profound sleep, he dreamed that he saw two devils in black standing by his bed side, who, he thought, had come to take him away. He trem- bled, and began to pray. The devils thereupon soon van- ished ; and were succeeded by two beautiful angels dressed in white, standing near his bed. These, thought he, are messengers for good. Casting his eye towards the farthest corner of the room, he saw an aged, and very grave look- ing man, sitting in a large arm chair, frowning upon him, the angels still standing by his bed. He looked, and be- held a beautiful child advance to the aged man, and smil- ing pleasantly, began to fondle around him ; but the aged man continued to frown. On this his sins were brought to his recollection, and it appeared to him that God the Father, represented by the aged man, was frowning on him, while Jesus Christ, represented by the little chilu\ was interceding for him. The angels might justly repre- sent the Holy Spirit directing the ministers of Christ, or his holy sisters presenting his case in prayer to a throne of grace. He awoke in a sort of rapture, and immediately dedi- cated himself to the God who made him, and became a happy Christian. "From what I understood," says Mr 10* LIFE OF THE Garrettson, '* Mrs. Basset had been praying for her hu& band's conversion, and that very night she dreamed that God had converted his soul." On returning home from court he met his family, and especially his pious lady joyfully. When he related to her what the Lord had done for him ; " I know it," said she. " the blessed God told me so." So far from indulging in a desire to move away from the Methodists, they now be- came the people of his choice. " I knew him," says Mr. Garrettson, " many years after this, and he lived I believe like a Christian, and I doubt not died like one and is gone to glory. Mrs. Basset lived but a short time after she embraced religion. I was often at the house, and was with her in her last sickness, when she seemed filled with the perfect love of God. I felt as if the room was filled with ministering spirits; and she left the world praising God." Equally remarkable was the conversion of Henry Arey, Esq., who was a relation to Mary, the young lady above- mentioned. " As he was a man of fashion, and an entire stranger to inward religion, he was much afraid she would drive his wife out of her senses. He undertook to show his visiter that the Methodists were not in the right way ; and for this purpose he chose an old book written by a Puritan divine, a hundred and fifty years ago : but he had not read many minutes before conviction seized him, and the tears flowed from his eyes, lie withdrew and read till he thought he must go among the Methodists with his book, and compare it with theirs. He did so, and found the Methodist publications to agree in substance with that. On this occasion I first met with him at Mr. White's. After he had laboured some time under distress of soul the Lord gave him rest — he felt the burden of guilt removed — and now expressed an anxious desire that I should come to the county where he resided, being determined to stand by the cause as long as he lived. ''Thursday, Feb. 10, 1780, I arose very early in tin REV. F. GARRETTSON 107 morning, and addressed the throne of grace. The Lord wonderfully refreshed my soul, and I felt a willingness to suffer whatever he might permit to come upon me for the sake of his cause. I opened my mind to Mr. As- bury who was at Mr. W.'s, and he seemed very desirous I should accept the invitation. He then commended me to the Lord in prayer, and I set out in good spirits with a strong hope that good would be done. The first day I got half way, and had a comfortable night. February 1 1th was a day of deep exercise. Are others distressed in the way that I have been ? I travelled on seemingly with the weight of a mill stone. I weptjsitterly as I passed along, and several times stopped my horse intending to turn back, but was still induced to pursue my way. I got to my dear friend Mr. Arey's some time before night ; and the burden which I felt all the way left me at his door. The dismis- sion of it was perceptible, for my spirit did rejoice in God my Saviour. I was conducted into a private room, where the Lord let me know that I was in the very place in which he would have me. " In the evening the family were gathered together for prayer : I shall never forget the time : I suppose about twelve white and black were present. The power of the Lord came among us : Mrs. Arey was so rilled with the new wine of Christ's kingdom, that she sunk to the floor, Messing and praising the Lord. And many of the blacks were much wrought upon. This night was a time oi great refreshment to me." The three following days Mr. Garrettson preached in the neighbourhood to numerous and attentive congrega- tions, most of whom were greatly affected under the word, and a gracious work commenced among the people. Pro- ceeding to another part of the country, he observes, " One man was deeply affected only by seeing us. I preached at Colonel Vicery's, a clever man, who afterwards became a great friend to us, and to himself too. The fields are 1 OS LIFE OF THE white for harvest, but the wicked rage, and invent lie? and mischief. The county court was sitting, and some of the heads of it were determined by some means to clear the place of such a troublesome fellow. For a pretence they charged me with toryism ; and I was informed, gave a very wicked man liberty, and promised to protect him to taking my life. For this purpose he was to lie in wait for me the next day. It providentially reached my ears that night before I went to bed, and as the wicked seemed thus inclined, I thought it expedient to withdraw to Mr. Arey's, where I remained two days ; but being pressed in spirit, I could" stay no longer, so I went to another part of the county. Many came out to hear, and the word was still attended with power to some hearts. " Saturday 25th, my spirit was solemn and I could not but expect that something uncommon would transpire. I withdrew to the woods, and spent much time before the Lord. I preached with freedom to a weeping flock, my friend Arey, who was a magistrate, and a man of note in the county, accompanying me to the place. In the even- ing we were repairing to his house, being about to preach t here the next day ; when a company of men, who had em- bodied themselves, waylaid me, with an intention to take me to jail. About sun set they surrounded us, and called me their prisoner. They beat my horse, cursed and swore, but did not strike me. Some time after night they took me to a magistrate who was as much my enemy as any of them. When I was judged, and condemned for preach- ing the gospel, the keeper of the peace who sat in his great chair, immediately wrote a mittimus and ordered me to jail. I asked him if he had never heard of an affair in Talbot county. Brother I. Hartley* was committed to jail * Mr. Garrettson adds the following particulars in a note :— : Brother Hartley, a dear good man, and an excellent preacher, was so pressed in spirit, he could no longer contain, and the rulers laid hands on him, and confined him in Talbot jail j but he preached REV. P. GARRETTSON. 109 for the same crime, that of preaching the gospel ; soon after the magistrate was taken sick unto death, and sent for this same preacher out of confinement to pray for him. He then made this confession, ' When I sent you to jail,' said he, ' I was fighting against God, and now I am about to leave the world, pray for me.' His family were called in, and he said to his wife, * This is a servant of God ; and when I die, I request he may preach at my funeral. You need not think I have not my senses ; this is the true faith.' He then gave brother Hartley charge of his family, and desired them to embrace that profession. Now, said I, J beseech you to think seriously of what you have done, and prepare to meet God. Be you assured, I am not ashamed of the cross of Christ, for I consider it an honour to be imprisoned for the gospel of my Lord. My horse wae^ brought, and about twelve of the company were to attend me to jail. They surrounded me, and two, one on each side, held my horse's bridle. The night was very dark ; and before we got a mile from the house, on a sudden there was a very uncommon flash of lightning, and in less than a minute all my foes were dispersed : my friend Arey was a little before the company, so that I was left alone. I was reminded of that place of Scripture, where our Lord's enemies fell to the ground, and then this portion of Scrip- ture came to me, ' Stand still and see the salvation of God.* It was a very dark cloudy night, and had rained a little, I sat on my horse alone, and though I called several times there was no answer. I went on, but had not got far before I met my friend Mr. Arey returning to look for me. He had accompanied me throughout the whole of this powerfully through the window. The blessed God own«d his word, and he was instrumental in raising a large society. He was con- fined a long time, till finally they thought he might as well preach without as within jail. Shortly after he was set at liberty, he married a pious young lady, and located. He did not live many years, but while he did live, he was very useful, and adorned his Christian anc^ ministerial character. He died in the Lord, and went to glory " no LIFE OF THE affair. We rode on talking of the goodness of God till m came to a little cottage by the road side, where we found two of my guards almost frightened out of their wits. I told them if I was to go to jail that night, we ought to be on our way, for it was getting late. c O ! no,' said one of them, 'let us stay until the morning.' My friend and I rode on, and it was not long ere we had a beautiful clear night. We had not rode for before the company collected again, from whence I know not. However, they appeared to be amazingly intimidated, and the leader of the company rode by the side of me, and said, ' Sir, do you think the affair happened on our account?' I told him that I would have him to judge for himself ; reminding him of the awful- ness of the day of judgment, and the necessity there was of preparing to meet the Judge of the whole earth. One of the company swore an oath, and another immediately reproved him, saying, ' How can you swear at such a time as this?' At length the company stopped, and one said. ' We had better give him up for the present ;' so they turned their horses and went back. My friend and I pur- sued our way True it is, ' The wicked are like the trou- bled sea, whose waters cast up mire and dirt.' We had not gone far before they pursued us again, and said, 1 We cannot give him up.' They accompanied us a few minutes, again left us, and we saw no more of them that night. A little before midnight we arrived safe to my friend's house. Blessed be God, the dear waiting family were looking out. and received us with joy : and we had a precious sweet family meeting. I retired to my room as humble as a little child, praising my great deliverer. " During the remainder of the night, though asleep, I was transported with the visions which passed through my mind. I had a confidence in the morning that my beloved Lord would support me. I saw in the visions of the night many sharp and terrible weapons formed against me ; but r»one could penetrate or hurt me : for as soon as they camfc REV. F. GARRETTSON. 11.1 near me they were turned into feathers, and brushed by me as soft as down. " Sunday 27th, at eleven o'clock many came out to hear the word, and it was expected my enemies would be upon me. I was informed that not a few brought short clubs under their coats to defend me in case of an attack, for many had just about religion enough to fight for it. As I was giving out the hymn, standing between the hall and room doors, about twenty of my persecutors came up in a body. I was amazed to see one of them who was an old man and his head as white as a sheet. The ringleader rushed forward, presented a pistol, and laid hold of me. Blessed be God ! my confidence was so strong in him, that [ feared none of these things. Some of the audience, who stood next to me, gave me a sudden jerk ; I was presently in the room, and the door shut. As soon as I could I opened it, and beckoning to my friends, desired that they would not injure my enemies ; that I did not want to keep from them, but was willing to go to jail. If I had not spoken in this manner, I believe much blood would have been shed. I began to exhort, and almost the whole congrega- tion were in tears. The women in a particular manner were amazingly agitated. I desired my horse to be got. and I was accompanied to Cambridge, where I was kept in a tavern from twelve o'clock till near sunset, surround- ed by the wicked ; and it was a great mercy of God thai my life was preserved. " I told my enemies not to give themselves any uneasi- ness, for I thought it an honour to suffer in the cause of Christ. After my horse and baggage were ready, and I was equipped for the expedition, we started, two and two. My friend and I rode together, and half the company be- fore, and half behind. This was on the Lord's day. When we came to the hotel, my friend and I were permitted to occupy a room adjoining the large public room. The inhabitants of the place seemed to be coming and going U2 LIFE OF THE the whole of the day, and kept the room filled the whole of the time, drinking and rejoicing over their prey. My friend was a young soldier, and the trial was too great for him. One of the company, a stout man, was about to break in to abuse, (for their hatred against him was almost as great as it was against me,) and actually did strike at him with all his force with a large loaded whip, and in all probability would have killed him, had not the whip struck the top of the door. My friend was young and active, and he instantly sprung, and as quick as a flash, sent his fist into the fellow's temple, who like a Goliah under David's sling, fell flat to the floor, and there was a roar of laughter through the house, and a declaration, 1 the Methodists will tight.' At a convenient time I got my friend round the neck, and wept and told him he had grieved my spirit. He said he was sorry on account of grieving me ; but that it was almost as sudden as thought : that it appeared to him that his arm was nerved for the purpose, and that he did not feel as if he had done wrong. And I must say I think they behaved rather better afterwards. " A little before night I was thrust into prison, and my enemies took away the key that none might administer to my necessities. I had a dirty floor for my bed, my saddle bags for my pillow, and two large windows open with a cold east wind blowing upon me : but I had great conso- lation in my Lord, and could say, ' Thy will be done/ During my confinement here, I was much drawn out in prayer, reading, writing, and meditation. I believe I had the prayers of my good friend Mr. Asbury ; and the book which he sent me, Mr. Rutherford's Letters, during his confinement, together with the soul comforting and strengthening letters which I received from my pious friends, were rendered a great blessing to me. The Lord was remarkably good to me, so that I experienced a prison to be like a paradise; and I had a heart to pray for my worst enemies. My soul was so exceedingly happy, I REV. F. GARRETTSON. scarcely knew how my days and nights passed away. The Bible was never sweeter to me.- I never had a greater love to God's dear children. I never saw myself more unworthy. I never saw a greater beauty in the cross of Christ ; for I thought I could, if required, go cheerfully to the stake in so good a cause. I was not at all surprised with the cheerfulness of the ancient martyrs, who were able in the flames to clap their glad hands. Sweet mo- ments I had with my dear friends who came to the prisor window. Happy the man who find3 the grace, The blessing of God's chosen race, The wisdom coming from above, The faith which sweetly works by love. " Many, both acquaintances and strangers, came to visit me from far and near, and I really believe I never was the means of doing more good for the time : for the county seemed to be much alarmed, and the Methodists among whom I had laboured, to whom I had written many epis- tles, were much stirred up to pray for me. I shall never forget the kindness I received from dear brother and sis- ter Arey. They suffered much for the cause of God in Dorset county, for which, if faithful, they will be amply compensated in a better world. " Mr. and Mrs. Arey were remarkably kind, and sent me every thing which was necessary. My brother Thomas, who lived about a hundred miles off, heard of my impri- sonment, and came to see me, and brought a letter from Judge White to Mr. Harrison, a gentleman of note, who was the greatest enemy I had in town. After reading the letter, he not only invited my brother to put up at his house, but went and got the prison key, let my brother come in, and next morning he came to the jail and invited him out to breakfast, and told me he would do any thing he could for me. Before this he was as bitter as gall. One day when an old Quaker friend came to see me, he came and 11 114 LIFE OF THE abused him, and strove to drive him away : the Quake- made him ashamed of his conduct. My enemies sent a spy who feigned himself a penitent, and as I was coming down stairs to converse with him through the window, it came powerfully to my mind, he is an enemy sent if possible to draw something out of you concerning the war. He cried , and said he was a miserable sinner, that he was afraid ho would go to hell, and wanted to know what he should do to be saved. I told him to leave off swearing and drunken- ness, and return, and I would give him further directions. I afterwards found he was the very character I had sup- posed. " My crime of preaching the gospel was so great, that no common court would try my cause. There appeared to be a probability of my staying in jail till a general court which would not convene in nearly twelve months. My good friend Mr. Asbury went to the governor of Maryland, and he befriended me : had I been his brother, he could not have done more for me. The manner in which he proceeded to relieve me was this : — I was an inhabitant ot Maryland by birth and property : I could likewise claim a right in the Delaware state, which state was more favour- able to such pestilent fellows. I was carried before the governor of Delaware. This gentleman was a friend to our society. He met me at the door, and welcomed me in, assuring me he would do any thing he could to help me. A recommendatory letter was immediately despatched to the governor of Maryland ; and I was entirely at liberty. O ! how wonderfully did the people of Dorset rage : but the word of the Lord spread all through that county, and hun- dreds both white and black have experienced the love ol Jesus. Since that time T have preached to more than three thousand people in one congregation, not far from the place where I was imprisoned ; and many of my worst enemies have bowed to the sceptre of our sovereign Lord. The labours of Caleb Peddicord and Thomas S. Chev. REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 115 were much blessed in this place, in the first reviving and spreading of the work. " After I left my confinement, I was more than ever determined to be for God and none else. I travelled ex- tensively. The Lord was with me daily, and my spirit rejoiced in God my Saviour. In visiting the young soci- eties, after I left jail, we had blessed hours : for many came to hear, sinners cried for mercy, and God's dear people rejoiced. " Friday 24, was a solemn fast, being good Friday, the day on which the great Redeemer gave up his precious life. Three days after, being in a blessed family, I had great sweetness both in public and private ; and before I laid down to rest, I was very desirous of being lost and swallowed up in the love of the Redeemer, and of feeling the witness of perfect love. After I laid down to rest, 1 was in a kind of visionary way for several hours. About one I awoke very happy, arose from my bed, and addressed the throne of grace. I then lighted a candle and spent nearly two hours in writing the exercises of the night. I saw myself travelling through a dismal place, encompassed with many dangers; I saw the devil, who appeared very furious ; he came near to me and declared with bitterness that he would cause my death ; for he seemed to suggest, you have done my kingdom much harm : thus saying, he began pelting me with stones, and bedaubing me with dirt, till I felt wounded almost to death, and began to fear I should fall by the hand of my enemy. But in the height of my distress, my adored Saviour appeared to me, whom f thought the most beautiful person that ever my eyes beheld. * I am your friend,' said he, ' and will support you in your journey ; fear not, for your enemy is chained.' I seemed to receive much st rength, and the power of my enemy was so broken that he could not move one foot after n;e ; all he could do was to threaten, which he did loudly till I got mt of his hearing. Being safe from these difficulties, ] 116 LIFE OF THE looked forward and saw a very high hill which I was Co ascend, but feared that I never should be able to reach thr • op : I entered on my journey, and got about halfway up. so fatigued that I thought every moment I must sink to f ,he earth. I then laid down to rest myself a little, and seemed to fall into a kind of doze ; but I had not lain long before the person who met me in the valley passed by, and smote me on the side, saying, ' Rise up, and be going, there is no rest for you there.' With that I received strength, and arrived at the top of the hill. I then looked back and saw my enemy at a great distance. I was greatly surprised when I saw the place through which I had passed ; for on every hand there appeared to be pits, holes, and quagmires in abundance. I was much wounded, nnd all bespattered with dirt. I looked around to see if I could find any house : and at a distance I espied a little cottage, and made up to it : when I got near the door, two angels met me and said, ' Come in, come in, thou blessed of the Lord, here is entertainment for weary travellers.' The inteiior of the cottage appeared to be the most beau- tiful place I had ever seen.' After I went in I thought ir was heaven filled with blessed saints and angels. One and another broke out, ' Glory, glory,' &lc, &c, till the place was filled with praises. One spoke to me and said, 1 This is not heaven, as you suppose, neither are we angels, but sanctified Christians : and this is the second rest. And it is your privilege, and the privilege of all the children of God.' With that I thought I had faith to believe, and in i moment my spotted garments were gone, a white robe was given me, and I had the language and appearance ot one of this blessed society : I then awoke. u Before this, I had an ardent desire truly to know my state, and to sink deep into God. When I awoke I seemed ill taken up with divine things. I spent part of the remain- der of the night in writing, prayer, and praises : and had 1 strong witness of union with my blessed Lord. My bto REV. F. GARRETTSON. 117 ther T. from the western shore came to see me, travelled several weeks with me, with whom I had blessed times ; for I believe it. was on this visit he felt a witness of par- doning love to his soul. " Upon a certain occasion, I was wonderfully led to think of the place catted hell, and was severely buffeted by the devil. ' Hell/ he suggested, ' is not as bad a place as you represent : how can God be a merciful being, a? you set him forth, if he sends people to such a dismal place to be tormented for ever for a few sins V I was ear- nestly desirous to know what kind of place it was ; and the Lord condescended to satisfy me in the dead season of the night. After I fell into a deep sleep, I seemed to enter through a narrow gate into eternity, and was met by a person who conducted me to the place called hell ; but I had a very imperfect view of it. I requested to be taken where I could see it better, if that could be done. I was then conveyed to a spot where I had a full view of it. It appeared as large as the sea, and I saw myriads of damned souls in every posture that miserable beings could get into. This sight exceeded any thing of the kind that ever had entered into my mind. But it was not for me to know any of them. Were I to attempt to describe the place as it was represented to me, I could not do it. Had I the pen of a ready writer, and angelic wisdom, I should fall short. I cried out to my guide, It is enough. With that he brought me to the place where he first met me. 1 then desired a discovery of heaven : my guide said, 1 Not now, return : you have seen sufficient for once ; and be more faithful in warning sinners, and have no more doubts about the realitv of hell.' Then I instantlv awoke." IIS LIFE OF THE CHAPTER VIII. Disputes respecting the ordinances — Mistakes corrected— Breach .lealed, and harmony restored — Mr. Asbury's account of this affair —Goes to Baltimore — Thence to the Peninsula — Singular dream The Methodists in this country, as well as in Europe, were considered at this time only as a society. The preach- ers were not ordained, and therefore did not claim the right of administering the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's supper, nor of performing the rites of marriage and burial of the dead. These circumstances became the source of considerable uneasiness in the societies. Not having fel- lowship with many of the parochial clergy of the Church of England on account of the irregularity of their lives, and the want of evangelical doctrine in their sermons, the Methodists were unwilling to receive the ordinances ot Christ at their hands. In addition to this, many places, particularly at the south, were entirely destitute of a settled ministry of any denomination. To remedy the inconveniences arising from this state of things, some of the preachers, no doubt from the best of motives, for they appear to have been a company of holy men, seconded the views of the people in respect to having the ordinances among themselves. Mr. Asbury, however, and most of the northern preachers resisted these measures, and endeavoured to persuade them to remain as they were until they could advise with Mr. Wesley and receive his directions. In the opinion of Mr. Garrettson, who was present when the question respecting administering the ordinances was discussed, those brethren in Virginia who advocated the measure have been misrepresented, as though they were at the head of a schism. In his manuscript notes, Mr, Garrettson says, " Since the death of Mr. Asbury, I am ;he oldest preacher in the American connexion, and there- REV. F. GARRETTSCKW 119 lore I think it my duty to explain this business." He then goes on to state, that at the Deer-creek conference, which was held May 20th, 1777, Mr. Rankin in the chair , it was asked, " Shall the preachers in America administer the ordinances?" The answer was, "We will suspend them until the next conference." May 19th, 1778, the regular conference was held in Leesburg, Virginia. Mr. Rankin and his British brethren , except Mr. Asbury who was not present at this confer- ence, were gone home. Mr. William Watters, being the oldest American preacher, was called to the chair. The same question was proposed again, " Shall we administer the ordinances?" " I was present," says Mr. Garrettson, " and the answer was * lay it over until the next confer- ence,' which was appointed to be held in Fluvanna county, Va., May 18th, 1779, at what was called the broken back church." In consequence of the troubles arising from the state of the war, which then raged with increased vio- lence, the northern brethren did not attend the Fluvanna conference; but for their "convenience," says Mr. Gar- rettson, " called a little conference in Kent county, in the province of Delaware, April 28th, 1779, at Judge White's, where Mr. Asbury had been confined to avoid the rage ol his enemies. At this conference Mr. Asbury was present and presided." At the time appointed, the southern brethren met in the regular conference, and the same question respecting administering the ordinances was discussed, and was finally decided in the affirmative. They accordingly set apart several of the oldest preachers to travel extensively, and to administer the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's supper, and to perform the marriage ceremony ; and at the conclusion, appointed their next conference to be held in May, 1780, at Manicantown, Virginia. " We at the north," says Mr. Garrettson, " were opposed to this inno- vation, and it was our pleasure to meet in Baltimore, April i20 LIFE OF THE 24th, 17S0, and brother Asbury, William Watters and myself were appointed a committee to meet those brethren at their conference, and endeavour to effect a reconcilia- tion. After much prayer and consultation, they unani- mously agreed to a suspension of the ordinances for one year, and to call a general conference in Baltimore the next spring ; in the meantime to consult Mr. Wesley, by whose judgment they would abide." Now although these brethren erred in their judgment, ihey undoubtedly manifested much of the meekness of Christianity, in agreeing, for the sake of peace aud har- mony, to relinquish their project, and wait for further advice from their venerable founder. No doubt, also, they were prompted to this step, not from a restless ambition, but from a love to the souls of the people who had been converted to God by their ministry, and who were anxious to receive the ordinances of Christ at their hands. In preventing a divisiou in the societies at this time, which must have been attended with very deleterious effects on the work of God, Mr. Garrettson took a very active and efficient agency, iu conjunction with Messrs. Asbury, Watters and Drumgole. Mr. Asbury says, " When we could not come to a conclusion with them, we with- drew and left them to deliberate on the conditions I offered; which were to suspend the measures they had taken for one year." To this they refused to submit, until the next day, when, says Mr. Asbury, " they were brought to an .tgreement 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, and surely the hand of God may be seen in all this. There might have been twenty promising preachers, and three thousand people seriously affected by this separation ; but the Lord would not suffer this.''' Thus, by the mutual endeavours of these holy men of God, this breach, which REV. F. GARRETf SON. 123 seemed to threaten the dissolution of the body, was healed and peace and harmony restored. Mr. Garrettson says, l * Having accomplished our business, we set our faces to the north with gladness of heart, praising the Lord for his great goodness." Returning to Baltimore, where he was appointed to labour, he set apart a day for fasting and prayer, and the Lord abundantly blessed him. Such, how- ever, was the ardour of his soul in behalf of lost sinners, that he did not long confine himself to the city ; for we soon find him in the country, where he makes the follow- ing reflections : " With delight I viewed the rising morn ; the fields are clad with a beautiful green ; the creation is smiling, and the birds tuning their notes. Surely an im- mortal spirit ought to praise the Creator of the universe.' After labouring for several weeks in Baltimore and the adjoining county with great success, he crossed the Chesa- peake again to the Peninsula. "Having," says he, "a good horse, and being seldom sick enough to desist from travelling, or weary enough to complain, I could travel from twenty to fifty miles a day, and preach from one to four sermons. During the five or six weeks I remained here, I visited most of the circuits ; the congregations were larger than usual, and never for the time had I brighter prospects. Many evil reports were raised against me ; but my manner was to go straight forward in the line of my duty. When I returned many gathered at the Fork chapel from all quarters ; and among the crowd, I espied my old uncle T. who had heard and believed the reports : and was determined, as I understood, to detect me in the midst of the people. Never shall I forget the day ; for the Lord manifested his power : the heart of my dear old uncle was softened, and tears flowed down his face. After he left the chapel, he said to some of his acquaintances, ; Surely my cousin is belied.' He came and begged me to -go home with him, which I did. The next day he followed me five miles ; and the tears flowed plentifully. 22 LIFE of Tin: When we were about to part, he asked me what compen- sation he should make me, for the benefit which he had received. * Will you,' said he, ' receive a suit of clothes V I thanked him kindly, telling him that I had as much clothing as was necessary. He then put his hand in hi^ pocket, and pulled out eighty continental dollars, which at that time were worth about twenty hard dollars: at first I refused ; but he would not be denied. So I took them, and some time after gave them to brother S., a man who needed them- When we parted he told me that he ex- pected to see me no more : it was even so, for some tim< after the Lord called him away. " I continued in this circuit till the following spring, and enjoyed precious moments. Many were brought into jospel liberty, and added to the society ; and some receiv- d the second blessing. I trust I grew in grace and know- ledge during my stay ; and felt myself an unprofitable serv- ant : very unworthy of the many favours which I received from the precious, loving followers of Christ in this circuit/ Just before Mr. Garrettson visited the Peninsula, he -.rives the following account: " I went to bed very happy, but my night visions were uncommonly strange : I thought I was taken dangerously ill, and expected shortly to be in oternity. I doubt not but I felt* just as dying persons do. I appeared to be surrounded with thousands of devjis, who were all striving to take from me my confidence ; and for a time it seemed almost gone. I began an examination from my first awakenings — then my conversion — my call to preach — the motives which induced me to enter this great work — my intention, and life from the beginning, fn the time of this examination, every fear was dismissed. — every fiend vanished ; and a band of holy angels suc- ceeded with the most melodious music that I ever heard. I then began to ascend, accompanied by this heavenl} host ; and thought every moment the body would drop oft' and mv spirit take its flight. After ascending a vast REV. F. GARRETTSON. 123 iieight, I was overshadowed with a cloud as white as a sheet; and in that cloud I saw a person the most beauti- ful that my eyes ever beheld. I wanted to be dislodged from this tabernacle, and take my everlasting flight. That glorious person, more bright than the sun in its meridian brilliancy, spoke to me as follows : ' If you continue faith- ful to the end, this shall be your place ; but you cannot come now, return and be faithful ; there is more work for you to do.' Immediately I awoke, and my spirit was so elevated with a sense of eternal things, that I thought ) should sleep no more that night. Great and glorious dis- coveries have been made to me both sleeping and waking : but all the promises of heaven and eternal glory have been conditional. In Scripture we have a little, but significant word, if — If you are faithful until death, you shall have a crown of life. I would advise all the children of God to be very careful and watchful, and continue in well doing until death. Some suppose that we ought not to put any de- pendence in dreams and visions. We should lay the same stress on them in this our day, as wise and good men have done in all ages. Very great discoveries were made to Peter, Paul, and others in their night visions. But is there not a danger of laying too much stress on them ? We are indeed in danger from a variety of sources ; and the only safe way to escape from the illusions of error is to try every thing by the written standard : if enlightened by the Holy Spirit, by taking heed to that word which is a lamp to our path, we shall not be suffered to go astray?' JT24 LIFE OF THE CHAPTER IX. Goes to Little York — Curious account of the conversion of a mar. and his wife— Effects thereof on the people— Goes to Colchester- Curious account of a deluded woman — Persecution rages — Visits a distressed man — Opposed by some soldiers who were quartered in the town — Powerful effects of the word preached—Attends confer- ence in Baltimore where unanimity prevails — Great distress in Vir- ginia— Rev. Mr. Jarret friendly to the Methodists. On the 24th day of January, 1781, Mr. Garrettson set jff to visit Little \ork in Pennsylvania. Stopping at a iavern for the night, he lectured on the 7th chapter of St. Matthew, and in time of family prayer the Lord powerfully awakened a gentleman who lodged there also. " Tuesday 25th, I went into the town, and in the after noon the bell rang, and I preached in the Dutch church. The gentleman's lady (who was awakened the evening before) got her heart touched. When he came home in the evening, he spoke to this effect, ' My dear, I heard such a man last night as I never saw or heard before, and if what he said be true, we are all in the way to hell.* ' I suspect,' said she, * he is the same man whom I heard this afternoon in Wagoner's church. I believe his doctrine is true, and that we are all in the way to ruin.' * Well,' said he, « let us set about our salvation.' * I am willing,' said she V Having an appointment, I preached at Mr. G.'s, the Lutheran minister : and after meeting we had an agreea- ble conversation. His mother and sister, whose hearts the Lord had touched, accompanied me to Berlin, where I preached to a large congregation with great freedom. I again had an opportunity in the evening to hold up a loving Saviour to the listening multitude. " By this time a persecution had arisen among the peo* pie in Little York and its vicinity : the enemy of souls had taken an advantage of my two friends who were awakened ; ItEV. F. GARRETTSON. j 125 Being under deep distress, and sorely tempted of the devil not knowing what to do, at length they prepared water, and washed themselves ; then put on clean clothes, and concluded that it was the new birth. After they came from their room, they kissed their two children, a son and .daughter well nigh grown, and told them they were new born. Being in a great measure bereft of their sense?, and the enemy ready to take every advantage, * Come,' said they, 'old things must be done away, and all things must become new.' They then began to throw their old clothing and blankets on the fire ; and among other things they threw on a large bundle of paper money. 1 This/ said he, ' is an old thing, and must be done away. 5 The neighbours being alarmed, ran in and saved many things : but I suppose they did not sustain less than fifteen pounds loss. A minister was sent for, and he desired a doctor to be called ; for they knew not what was the matter. A Quaker woman came to see them, who said, ' she did noi know of any one that could be of service to them, unless it was the man that was the occasion of it.' The cry was, such a man ought not to go through the country ; and that some desired me to be apprehended and put into jail. I was about twenty miles off, but as soon as I heard of it, mounted ray horse and got to them as quickly as possible. When the neighbours saw me, several gathered into the room. When I entered the house, I perceived that the woman looked strange, and the man was in bed under the hands of the doctor, with several blister plasters on him. I sat down by his bed side (she sat on the foot of the bed) and asked him what he wanted — 1 To be new born,' said he. Taking out my little Bible, I read and lectured on a chap- ter; and sensibly felt that the Lord was present to heal. It brought to my mind the time when St. Peter visited Cornelius. I believe in the time of the exhortation and prayer the Lord not only opened the way of salvation to *hose two distressed ones, but to several others who came 12 126 g LIFE OF THE in ; and we had a precious sweet time. I desired them to take his blister plasters off. Glory to God ! he restored them, not only to their natural but spiritual senses. A good and gracious God has his own way of working among the children of men. Though at first this circumstance caused me great distress of mind, in the end it was for* good ; many were astonished and brought to a serious consideration. Although the church door was shut against me, a large school room was opened, in which I preached a sermon on the occasion, to about three hundred souls : the Lord touched the hearts of many , and my two mad people (as they had been called) were able to rejoice in the Lord. Soon after this a loving society was formed in the neighbourhood. " Wednesday 22d, I had a tedious journey to Colches- ter ; but found the parents of one family, who were awak- ened when I was there before, mourning for Jesus; and i had freedom to preach to the people. In the morning I sat out again for Berlin, and missed my way. I am burdened — surely it is a burden which the Lord hath laid upon me, and it is for the best. I called at a house to inquire for the road ; I heard a dismal groaning and lament- ing within. I alighted from my horse and went in; and found the woman of the house wringing her hands and mourning bitterly. Good woman, said I, what is the mat- ter with you ? 1 Sir,' said she, ' have you never heard what has happened ? I have sold my three little children to the devil, and on such a day he is to come for them.' I can prove to you, said I, that it is out of your power to sell your children to the devil, for they belong to God. I read and explained to her parts of several chapters; but it seemed all in vain. Her husband came in, and I desired him to get a horse and take her to preaching that after- noon. After he had got the horse, I desired her to make ready, and go to preaching with her husband. ' O,' said she, ' I cannot think of leaving my dear little children in REV. F. GARRETTSON. 127 the arms of the devil.' After some time she was prevailed on to go. Her husband told me, that she had carried a razor in her bosom for three weeks, with an intention, first to take the lives of her children, before the day came that she thought the devil was to come for them, and then to take her own life. I preached a sermon suited to her con- dition, and it pleased the Lord to visit her soul in mercy ; so that after preaching she came to me in a rapture of joy, blessing and praising God that she ever saw my face She became a blessed pious woman. I then knew the cause of my being lost. O God, thou art good, and I will praise thee ! thou art kind, and I will give glory to thy holy name ! " Friday, February 24th, I returned to town, and the persecution raged so furiously, that I thought it most ex- pedient to preach at Mr. W.'s, a mile out of town. Many gathered, and we had a moving time. The next day we had a powerful season ; and the hearts of some of my enemies were reached. " Sunday, February 26th, I never saw so many out in this place before, and even some who had thought it a sin to hear me were present, and I never witnessed a more general moving in any place where preaching had been so short a time. In this county there were, I think, sixteen different denominations, and some of all seemed zealous in their way. In the afternoon I again returned and preached at D. W.'s, where one woman was struck under conviction, and cried aloud for mercy. There was a shaking through the whole assembly ; I felt the power of faith, and was greatly enlightened in the Holy Scriptures." Returning to town again, he found more peace than formerly. '* Tuesday, March 1st,, being desired the day before to visit a distressed man, one who was troubled with an evil spirit, between day break and sunrise I called his minis- J or out of bed, and desired him to go with me. We went,, ! 2S § LIFE OF THE ;ind I desired all to leave the room, except the distressed man, his wife, the minister, and myself. I then desired him to open to me his case. He said that ' for a long time the devil had followed him, and that he had frequently seen him with his bodily eyes.' The dear man was under conviction, but knew not what was the matter with him I told him my experience, and gave him as good directions as I was capable of. I prayed for him, and so likewise did his minister in Dutch. I understood afterwards that he was troubled no more in the same way, and he became one of my quiet hearers. " I visited the country and experienced great displays of the awakening power of God; for many precious peo- ple, both Dutch and English, were inquiring the way to heaven. I again returned to town, and preached to about three hundred people by candle light ; but some were offended. I appointed to preach the next evening. In town there were many soldiers billetted, and the officers declared that if I attempted to preach again, they would take me to jail : so I understood by my friends, who desired me to decline. I was not afraid of their threats, but in the evening attended the appointment. Shortly after I had taken my text, ' Quench not the Spirit,' 1 Thess, v, 19, several officers with a company of soldiers came to the place, but the house was so crowded that none could get in but the officers, who fixed themselves by my right hand, one of whom stood on a bench with his staff in his hand, lifted up several times either to strike or frighten me ; but had a bat, or an owl lighted on the wall, I should have been as much afraid. The devil cannot lead his factors further than the length of his chain. After sermon was ended, all withdrew, and no harm was done. I was surprised to see the same officers come peaceably to heat the word the next night. The next day I had an invita- tion to preach to the soldiers ; but as 1 was under a neces. sity of leaving town, I could not.' ! REV. P. GARRETTSON. 129 Notwithstanding the opposition of some, Mr. Garrettson continued to travel through the country, and to preach with his usual zeal and success. While one cried out, u Sir, can you tell me what I shall do to be saved, for I am the wickedest man in the whole county," others said, " This is the right religion and so great was the influ- ence of truth, that although he observed that he was never in a place where there was such a variety of sects, it seemed to him as if sects and names would be lost, and the name of Christ be all in all. During his labours in this part of his Lord's vineyard, which was a little over two months, he says that he " preached in more than twenty different places, and thought that more than three hundred people were under powerful awakenings, besides a number who had already found the pearl of great price. About one hundred had joined the societies." On the 22d he left the circuit for conference in the city of Baltimore, where he arrived , after a ride of sixty miles, about sunset, and heard a sermon in the evening. At this conference they had great peace, as all the preachers agreed to abide by the decision of Mr. Wesley respecting the ordinances. This year, 1781, in Virginia, where Mr. Garrettson was appointed to travel, was a time of great distress, on ac- count of the war. Lord Cornwallis was then harassing the people with his army, and the Americans were exert- ing themselves to oppose his progress ; so that by the marching and countermarching of armies, and frequent skirmishes, the minds of the people were constantly excited with fear and perplexity ; a state of mind very unfavoura- ble to the progress of religion. Another circumstance tended not a little to arrest the progress of truth and righteousness. Though the disputes respecting the ordinances were amicably terminated among the preachers who composed the conference, yet in Vir- ginia and North Carolina, there were some local preachers, 12* 130 LIFE OF THE and many of the private members who were not so easily pacified. One object in sending Mr. Garrettson into those parts appears to have been, being a son of peace, and pos- sessing considerable influence among preachers and peo- ple, that he might be instrumental in restoring union and confidence among the brethren. This, after considerable labour, accompanied with much prayer, he in a great mea- sure accomplished before the end of the year. Amidst the troubles arising from these sources, Mr. Garrettson found his mind much refreshed, and his hands strengthened, by the good countenance and spiritual con- versation of the Rev. Mr. Jarrat, a pious clergyman of the Church of England. Mr. Jarrat received the Methodists with open arms, invited Mr. Garrettson into his pulpit, and as the Methodists had not the ordinances of God's house among themselves, Mr. Jarrat supplied this lack of service by inviting them to the table of the Lord in his church, and occasionally administering baptism and the Lord's supper to them in other places. Of this pious and zealous clergyman, Mr. Garrettson makes honourable mention. " I have had," says he, " some happy seasons in his congregation, particularly on sacramental occasions. At one time about three hundred of his parishioners com- muned, and the place seemed awful on account of the power and presence of God. Mr. Jarrat told me that when a lad, while studying under President Davies, he was brought under a travail of soul, and that when the burden was removed, and he received regenerating grace, he was as sensible of it as he would have been, (to use his own expression,) if a ton weight had been rolled from his body.' : He arrived on his circuit, Essex, in Virginia, June 4th, 17S1, and going to an appointment at Ellis's chapel, he says, " As I entered the door I saw a man in the pulpit dressed in black, engaged in prayer. I soon perceived he was a man bereft of his reason. I went into the pulpit and desired him to desist. After he ended, I gave out his REV. F. GAItRETTSOtt. 131 text, and began to preach. But I had no other way to stop him, than to desire the people to withdraw. His tes- timony was, that he was a prophet sent of God to teach the people ; and that it was revealed to him a person was to interrupt him in his discourse. After a few minutes the people returned, and all was still. I then gave out, 1 Feed my sheep,' John xxi, 17. I had liberty in showing, \i The character mentioned in the text — sheep; 2, why the followers of our Lord might be called sheep ; and 3, how the sheep are to be fed. 1. The Shepherd ; 2, the food ; and 3, the manner of feeding the flock. The prophet returned home, and that night he told his family, at such an hour he would go into a trance ; and that they must not bury him till after such a time, should he not survive. Accordingly, to appearance he was in a trance. The next day I was sent for to visit him. Many were weeping around the bed, in which he lay like a corpse, for I could not perceive that he breathed. He was once happy in God, and a sensible useful man. About the time of which he spoke, he came to himself. Satan was partly disappointed ; for in some measure he was restored to his reason, and I took him part of the way round the circuit with me. What was the cause of this ? Satan prompted him to think more highly of himself than he ought to think ; and so he fell into the condemnation of the devil. I had a hope before we parted, that his fallen soul was restored. Some time after this he began again to preach Christ ; and I trust was more humble than ever. I continued on this circuit about three months, had many happy hours, and some distressing ones. Two things were a great distress to my mind: 1. The spirit of fighting ; and 2, that of slavery, which ran among the people. I was resolved to be found in my duty, and keep back no part of the counsel of God. Day and night I could hear the roaring of the cannon, for I was not far from York town during the siege and the surrender of Corn- wallis. Many of our pious friends were absolutely against 132 LIFE OF THE fighting, and some of them suffered much on that ao count, for they were compelled, or taken by force into the field ; though they would sooner have lost their own lives than take the life of any human creature. I saw it my duty to cry down this kind of proceeding, declaring that it could not be justified in the oracles of God. I was, in a particular manner, led to preach against the practice of slave holding. Several were convinced of the impiety of the practice, and liberated their slaves : others who did not liberate them, were convinced that they ought to use them better than they had done. Had it not been for these two evils, I might have been more popular among the peo- ple. I preached at a quarterly meeting at Mabery's chapel, where there were about two thousand present, of all ranks : and being pressed in spirit, I cried, ' Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with thy God.' There were more than a thousand people who could not get into the chapel, and some of those without called out for an officer to take me. After meeting was ended, I walked through the midst of them, but no one laid hands on me." After preaching in several places, in all of which he found the power and presence of God to be with him, it seems he went to form a new circuit ; for he says, " I am now in my element, forming a new circuit, and I have pleasing prospects. I preached in one place, and there was a great shaking among the people. I preached again the next day, and the power of the Lord in a most won- derful manner came down. I was somewhat surprised — the rich are brought to mourn for Christ. Several fell under the word. A major was so powerfully wrought on, that I suppose he would have fallen from his seat had not the colonel held him up. A large society was united in this place, mostly of the rich. About this time I received a letter from Mr. Asbury, in which I was informed that he could not visit the south, and that it was his desire I shoukl ,Hee to stationing the preachers." REV. F. GARRETTSON. 133 It seems that at the request of Mr. Asbury, who wa? the general assistant under Mr. Wesley, Mr. Garrettson travelled through several circuits, attended the quarterly meetings, held lovefeasts, and exercised a sort of general superintendency over preachers and people, in the absence of Mr. Asbury. Hence at his request he visited the cir- cuits on the north side of James' river, where he found them in some confusion respecting administering the ordi- nances, and not a little disturbed on the question of slavery. Some, however, had liberated their slaves, and those who yet plead for the ordinances were tolerably pacified through his mediation. In this tour he had the satisfaction oi meeting his brother Richard, a travelling preacher, with whom he was much refreshed, and whose labours had been greatly blessed among the people. Coming from thence to Baltimore, and finding the small poA raging, he was inoculated. He concludes his account of his labours on this tour, with the following reflections : "I think my Lord made me instrumental in uniting to us many brethren, both preachers and people, who had disagreed with us about the ordinances. I can say it was a year of humilia- tion, and believe I grew in knowledge as well as in grace." CHAPTER X. Travels extensively through Virginia and North Carolina — Poli- tical difficulties — Goes to Little York — Preaches in the fields — Preaches on the doctrine of perfection — Remarkable dream — Re- marks on infant baptism — Greatly encouraged to persevere — Visits and rejoices with his old friends — Mourns over the stupidity of the people — Attends conference in Baltimore — Account of a blind man — Interesting account of a young female — Attends to the people oi colour — Conversion of a great opposer — Meets Dr. Coke — Reflec tions on Mr. Wesley's plan for the organization of a church— Goes 10 call a conference of the preachers at Baltimore. There is a chasm here in his printed journal of about f am of the means of grace ; but in an earnest, fervent 1 52 LIFE OF THE humble, holy looking to God by faith. This is the way you are to walk in him ; to be as much engaged for per- fect love, as ever you were for justifying faith. What is the reason we are not more holy ? Why do we not walk more closely with God, and live more in heaven? Why are we not more dead to the world ? Because we are en- thusiasts, looking for the end, without using the means O ! that you may stir up the gift of God by earnestly groaning, both day and night, for full redemption in the blood of Jesus : look for the blessing note ; this moment look up by faith. You must feel the need of it ; then, and not till then, will you seek it with all your powers. O that you may receive it now, while these lines are read to you. By and by, our sabbath opportunities, praying oppor- tunities, preaching opportunities, hearing opportunities, and class meeting opportunities, will all be passed away ; the harvest shortly will be ripe, Christ will appear, his labourers will be called home, and each of us will have to give an account of his stewardship. O what a dismal day it will be to the impenitent ; to swearers, drunkards, liars, defrauders, the worldly minded, to all those that have been covered with a web of their own weaving, and particular); to hypocrites aud backsliders. The backslider may thou say, ' Once I went in and out with the people of God, tasted his goodness, and felt his power ; but wretched me, I departed from his holy commands, pierced the Saviour afresh, yea, I wounded his cause, by stabbing him in the house of his friends ; and now an eternal storm must for ever beat upon my guilty soul.' O my God ! who can bear the thought. While I am writing, the worth of your souls ues near my heart, and blessed be God, I feel a sense oi his dying, forgiving love to my own soul. " I shall now close with an address to you in the seve- ral stations you occupy in the church of God. Some of you God has set apart to speak in his name : O that you may do it faithfully. To the leaders I would say, Keep the REV. P. GARRETTSON. 153 life and power of God in your souls, that your prayers and admonitions may have the happy effect of kindling all around you the flames of holy, pure love : then will you long for your class day to corne. The private members 1 would enjoin to love each other, and to bear each other'e burdens : be watchful, sober ; train up your children in the fear of God, and be as burning lights to all around you then will you force the heathen world to say, * See how these Christians love one another.' You that are young men and women, be sober minded, and be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers, considering that light has no communion with darkness, or Christ with Belial I earnestly exhort you all to receive with kindness, and esteem highly, those who labour among you in word and doctrine ; they watch for your souls, as they that must give an account, that they may do it with joy. God hae- already in his wisdom seen fit to remove some from among you into eternity, I hope, to surround his glorious throne " I now commend you to the fatherly goodness of Jeho- vah, praying and beseeching him to keep you all By the power of his Spirit, that if I never enjoy your compan\ here, I may eternally enjoy it in heaven. " I desire the prayers of all my dear friends and chil- dren, that I may stand fasi in the faith, and finish my course with comfort : may we all meet to be crowned with an eternal crown. Friends meet and part here, but there we shall meet never to part more. Our sorrows will br wiped away ; the wicked will cease from troubling, and our weary souls will for ever be at rest ; to which happy place may God in his infinite mercy grant to bring us alJ, for the sake of his dear Son. Amen. " I remain your sincere, though unworthy servant, in the bonds of the peaceful gospel of Christ, " F. G.A RR ETTSO V ''An epistle to all the brethren on the sea side. Care of brother John Coc — to be read." 14* 154 LIFE OF THE " Dear Brother, " God in his wisdom has altered my station from Hie south to the north, and I am now on my way as far a^ Mount Holly. There seems to be a loud call for the gos- pel in Halifax, Shelburn, and many other places in Nova Scotia. I am willing, and want to go in the power of the blessed Spirit. I hope I shall have an interest in the prayers of all my dear friends. I shall never forget you for the acts of kindness you have showed. Lord grant you may ever continue an humble, zealous follower of the Lamb, that I may one day meet you in glory everlasting. " Blessed be God, my mind is sweetly drawn out in the work of the ministry, and I hope I shall ever be little and mean in my own eyes, and that I may ever be rising higher and higher in the divine image. Brother Kent informs me that the work seems still to prosper, which rejoices my heart. O that Jesus may still go on in the power of his Spirit. Give my kind love to sister Hopper, and to all inquir- ing friends. I hope you will write to me often : direct to Halifax. I am more and more convinced that our new plan is of God. I hope and trust the Lord is about to raise up a glorious church. " I commend you to Jesus, trusting you will be faithful unto death. In great love believe me "Your friend, " F. Garrettson." About the middle of February, in company with Mr. James O. Cromwell, Mr. Garrettson embarked for Halifax in Nova Scotia. They had a very tedious voyage, suffer- ing much from cold and wet, having in a small vessel, deeply loaded, encountered a severe storm. " I never,' says he, " saw so dismal a time before ; but through the amazing goodness of God, we were brought safely to Halifax, and were very kindly received by a Mr. March- mgton, a true friend to the gospel." Through the ex- ertions of this pious gentleman., a convenient place wa* REV. F. GARRETTSON, 155 fitted up for preaching, and in a short time Mr. Garrettson united a few serious persons together in a class. Shortly after his arrival, he wrote the following letter to Dr. Coke :— " Halifax, 1785. "Rev. and dear sir, — After a stormy and dangerous passage of thirteen days, we arrived safely, at Halifax where we met with a kind reception from Mr. Marchington, and a few other poor sheep in the wilderness. As yet I do not know as much of the country, or the state of affairs, as I shortly shall, God being my helper. " A few days ago brother Cromwell set sail for Shelburn, Brother Marchington has hired a house at ten dollars a month, that will contain about three hundred souls. I have preached five sermons. The number has increased so that we now have our little apartment rilled. I cannot speak of any visible good, more than that they seem to hear with attention and solemnity, and I have joined a society of seven or eight members. Shortly atter I came to town, I waited on the old rector. ' Sir,' said he, 1 you are on a blessed errand ; I will do what I can in assisting you. I desire to see the gospel spread.' " The next day I waited on his excellency, the governor, accompanied by Mr. Marchington. 1 found him very accessible. After telling him my business, from whence I was, and by whom I was sent : ' Mr. Wesley,' said he, ' is a good man-y-a very good man. How long do you pur- pose to stay ?' I told him twelve months, or two years. * 1 am glad you called upon me : you have my approbation, and whenever you call for my assistance, if I can help you I will.' I could but humbly thank him. " God willing, on Monday next I purpose to take a tour through the country, to collect, if possible, the sheep so w idely scattered. I believe there are many precious soul? who desire to hear us. I am well assured we shall have hard work this year ; but who would not labour, and suffer i 56 LIFE OP THE in so good a cause. I bless God for health, and as great a desire as ever to do his blessed will, and spend and br spent in the best of causes. We shall, as the people are poor, do little in the sale of books. Indeed I expect we shall be under a necessity of giving some of the small tracts away. The travelling here is extremely expensive. The packet has no less than four or five dollars for carrying a person from Halifax to Shelburn, and as much to Anna- polis or St. John's Town : besides long journeys by land to the different towns and settlements. I am fully per- suaded that our voyage to this part of the world is of God ; the very time when preachers of our order ought to have come. But if possible we must be assisted, for our preach- ers are left without horses, and but four pounds a piece. Next year I trust the people will be able to support the gospel. When I am more acquainted with the country, I shall send on another letter to conference. By the grace of God I shall do all that lies in my power to promote the Redeemer's kingdom a " Dear sir, I remain your affectionate friend and brother. " F. Garrettson. " To the Rev. Dr. Coke." in another letter he says, " The secretary sent for die, to know whether it would not be expedient for me to take the oath of allegiance to his majesty ; but on my objecting to it, and stating my reasons for so doing, he told me there was not the least necessity : he also told me it there should happen any disorders in our meeting, to apply to a magistrate, and I should find favour. So far is well, is it not 1 My congregation has been increasing ever since I came ; so that on the sabbath evenings many return home for want of room in the house. The last week night V preached, the house was nearly full. For two nights we had a little disturbance. On one night the stones flew, and one stone of nearly a pound weight was levelled at me, REV. F. GARRETTSON. 157 but missed its aim, and struck out two panes of glass near my head. This is but trifling, if I can win souls to Jesus." After continuing a short time in Halifax, during which he preached almost every night in the week, and three times on the Lord's day, in the latter part of March he set out on a tour through the country. " I have," says he, " travelled, though the snow was deep, about three hun- dred miles in two weeks, and preached twenty sermons to many attentive hearers." Among others, he found some old members of society, who had emigrated from Europe, and who rejoiced much to hear from his lips the same truths they formerly had heard in their own country, Indeed, some time prior to this, Mr. William Black, a native of Yorkshire, who had been converted to God, had gone to that province, and had been instrumental in dif- fusing gospel light and truth among the people in New Brunswick, and some other places. On the arrival of Mr. Garrettson, Mr. Black and those who were associated with him were much encouraged. In this country Mr. Garrettson preached the word with a success similar to what had attended his evangelical la- bours in the United States. Among others who had begun to M taste of the good word of God," he found a society of coloured people, with whom he was much comforted, whom he endeavoured to bring into gospel order, by forming sixty of them into a class, administering baptism to nineteen, and the Lord's supper to about forty, most of whom he trusted loved God and one another. It is not one of the least perplexing difficulties connected with ministerial duty, to be under the necessity of either disentangling the sophistries of error, or of suffering vain and deluded mortals to remain under the influence of their fatal delusion. It is more especially so, when this error is nourished and strengthened by pride and self conceit, — vices not uncommonly united, — and adhered to with all the tenacity which ignorance and bigotry inspire. To remain 15S LIFE OF THE .silent under such circumstances, betrays a want of zeal in the cause of truth, and an indifference to the salvation of souls. To undertake to unravel the knotty threads ot error is often a task no less difficult and irksome to our- selves, than it is offensive to those whom we labour " to convert from the error of their ways." These remarks were suggested by the following account which Mr. Garrettson has recorded respecting a people he found in Nova Scotia, who seem to have adopted all the offensive peculiarities of Calvinism, called Allenites, one Mr. Allen being their principal leader. Though he might have been a good man, it is certain that some parts of his doctrine must have had a very pernicious influence. u Some of them," says Mr. Garrettson, " seem to have the fear of God ; but in general they are as deluded a people as I ever saw. Almost all of them preach in public. I was conversing with one who seems to be a principal person among them. She said she believed death would slay more sins for her than were ever destroyed before. • As for sin,' said she, 4 it cannot hurt me : not even adul- tery, murder, swearing, drunkenness, nor any other sin. can break the union between me and Christ.' They have passed judgment upon us, that we are neither Christians, nor called to preach. " Thursday I preached at Mr. Woodworth's, to a crowded audience. A little before preaching time, two old Calvin- ists came into my room to have a conversation with me before preaching. 1 1 understand,' said o»e of them, 1 that you hold with falling from grace : I heard it, but did not know how to believe it, and should be glad to know whether you do deny the perseverance of the saints?' I answered, t do not, for my desire is that they should persevere : I do not hold with man's persevering in wickedness, neither do I believe that a man can have grace while he lives in sin. Let us take the Bible, and see what is said there : I read part of the loth of John, ard parts of several chapters in Hebrews, Romans, and Peter. Now, said I, this is the REV. F. GARRETTSON. language of many other passages. We have no promise for any but such as do persevere to the end, and we have had many unhappy instances of men running well for a time, and then turning back: read the 18th chapter of Ezekiel. Now what harm can there be in enforcing our Lord's, the prophets', and the apostles' exhortation? 'Very good,' said he. Why should we do it if there was no dan- ger ? and what harm can there be in the doctrine ; sup- pose you are a Christian, and your neighbour is one also : you believe in the unconditional perseverance of saints ; he in the conditional : who, sir, is the safest? If you are right, surely he cannot fall. * I never,' said he, ? saw so much in it before.' They stayed to hear the sermon > and afterwards one said, ' I never heard these men before, but they are better than I thought.' " Friday morning I set out for Granville. I had not got far, before a man came running out. ' Sir,' said he, ' I like part of your doctrine well, but part I do not like.' What part don't you like ? ' You say, sir, that a saint may fall.' Will you answer me one question ? said I. Do you know that you were ever converted? 'I do,' said he Pray tell me how matters are at present between God and your soul? 'Why,' said he, ' it is a winter state.' But. said I, are you not now living in open sin against God? He paused awhile. I ask, said I, in the fear of God, and desire an answer in truth. ' I confess,' said he, 1 1 am living in sin.' And yet you do not believe in falling from grace ! I believe it because you have fallen. This is what you call a winter state ! I call it lying in the arms of the wicked one, and you may talk as you will about your past experience, but I would not give a straw for your chance of heaven, if you die in this state. You are reconciling Christ and Belial together. ' O,' said he, 1 I shall be raised up at the last day.' You will, said 1 ; but, unless you repent, it will be to be cast into the lake of fire. H seemed much affected and left me. 160 LIFE OF THE " January 19th, I preached opposite Granville to a num- ber of serious hearers, and was invited home to dinner by an old gentleman, who, soon after we were seated at table -:aid, 1 1 understand you preach perfection.' I do, said I and have done so for a number of years ; and shall do so as long as I find the doctrine in the Bible. ' Why, sir,' said he, 4 Paul was not perfect, he complains of a thorn in the side.' The heart is the place for sin, said I, and not the side. He then mentioned several other passages of Scripture which he thought were opposed to holiness of heart, which I explained to him. Pray, said I, let us come to the point at once. Do you believe that an unholy creature can enter into heaven ? ' No.' Pray when is sin to be destroyed ? ' At death.' You must then hold with death as being part of a Saviour, or with a purgatory after death, or you must come to perfection on this side the grave. He sat amazed, and seemed to give up the argu- ment. We rose from the table : I went to prayer, then went on my journey and preached at six o'clock in the ^ourt house. When I left the old man, he desired me to make his house my home. I left Fletcher's Checks with him. Shortly after I received a few lines from him to this effect : — ' I believe you to be a servant of God. I hope the Lord will bless you, and those that sent you here. I want to see you at my house at every opportunity. I thank you for the book.' " Mr. Garrettson, in another place, gives the following summary of their leading absurdities: — " 1. They think they can tell whether a person is a Christian at first sight 2. They say that we are leading people blindfolded to hell, 3. They are, they say, as sure of heaven, as if they were already there, for sin cannot hurt them." " I never met with such a people in my life. There are about fifty of them in Liverpool." From the date of the following letter, found among his papers, it must have been written about thi? time. If REV. F. GARRETTSON. 161 seems to contain a short account of his experience and labours up to that time. AN UNFINISHED LETTER TO MR. WESLEY. " Halifax, April 20th, 1785. " Rev. and dear Sir, — Known to me, yet unknown, t nave many things to write, but am afraid of burdening you, or of taking up your precious time, which I believe you are redeeming moment by moment. I bless God that I ever heard of your name, or read your numerous works. Close doctrine and discipline I dearly love. This spring is fourteen years since I was powerfully convinced with- out the use of human means. The doctrine of the first Methodist preacher I ever heard was as precious ointment to my poor wounded soul. I was sure he was a servant of the living God. I have been travelling in your con- nexion nine years, during which time (I desire to write it with humility) God has granted me health, so that I have seldom missed preaching the whole of that time. My lot has mostly been cast in new places, to form circuits, which much exposed me to persecution. Once I was imprisoned ; twice beaten ; left on the high way speechless and sense- less ; (I must have gone into a world of spirits, had not God in mercy sent a good Samaritan that bled, and took me to a friend's house ;) once shot at ; guns and pistols presented at my breast; once delivered from an armed mob, in the dead time of night, on the high way, by a surprising flash of lightning ; surrounded frequently by mobs ; stoned frequently ; I have had to escape for my life at dead time of night. O ! shall I ever forget the Divine hand which has supported me. O that I could love my God more, and serve him with a more perfect heart. It was three years from my conviction, before I was brought through the pangs of the new birth. Eight months elapsed after I was called to preach, before I was willing to leave my all and go out. I wanted to live in retirement, and had 15 [62 LIFE OF THE almost got my own consent to sell what I had in the world, and retire to a cell. God withdrew himself from me. I was very near desperation, for I was travelling, as it were, alone. I betook myself to my room, except when I was wandering through the woods and fields, till I was worn away to a skeleton ; and all this time I was kept from unbosoming myself to the lovers of Jesus. Strong im- pressions I had to go forth in Jehovah's name to preach the gospel. When I thought of it, I was pained to the very heart : it seemed like death, so great was the sense [ had of my weakness and ignorance. By day I was drawn out in the study of the Holy Scriptures, and in the night season, when fast asleep, preaching aloud, till I have been as wet with sweat, as if dipped in a river. O ! what a precious time I had when I gave up my own, to the will of God. I saw there was no other way for me to be saved. I was determined, if required, to go to the ends of the earth ; yea, I promised the Lord if he, would stand by me, and required it, I would go to the very mouth of hell. Blessed be God, he has been very kind and good to me aver since. "The second year I travelled, I was powerfully con- vinced of the necessity of holiness. For a considerable time I waded through deep, but sweet distress. I had a discovery of the purity of the law, and the impurity of my own heart : being conscious it was my privilege to become pure in heart, I determined not to stop short of it. Sen- sible I was it came by faith. I was under deep exercises to preach no more, till I received that blessing. There was a time when I had a greater nearness to God, but I did not receive the witness till a twelve-month afterwards. "F. Garrettson." Soon after writing the above, it seems he received the following from Mr. Wesley, which will show in what high estimation he was held by that eminently useful man of God REV. F. GARRETTSON. 163 " Dublin, June 26, 1785. My dear brother, — Dr. Coke gives some account of you in his journal, so that although I have not seen you , I am not a stranger to your character. By all means send me, when you have opportunity, a more particular account of your experience and travels. It is no way improbable that God may find out a way for you to visit England, and it may be the means of your receiving more strength, as well as more light. It is a very desirable thing that the children of God should communicate their experience to each other; and it is generally most profitable when they can do it face to face. Till Providence opens a way for you to see Europe, do all you can for a good Master in America. ' *' I am glad brother Cromwell and you have undertaken that labour of love, the visiting Nova Scotia, and doubt not but you act in full concert with the little handful who were almost alone till you came. It will be the wisest way to make all those who desire to join together, thoroughly acquainted with the whole Methodist plan, and to accustom them, from the very beginning, to the accurate observance of all our rules. Let none of them rest in being half Christians. Whatever they do, let them do it with their might, and it will be well, as soon as any of them find peace with God, to exhort them to go on to perfection. The more explicitly and strongly you press all believers to aspire after full sanctification as attainable now by simple faith, the more the whole work of God will prosper. "I do not expect any great matters from the bishop. 1 doubt his eye is not single, and if it be not, he will do little good to you, or any one else. It may be a comfort to you that you have no need of him : you want nothing which he can give. " It is a noble proposal of brother Marchington ; but I doubt it will not take place. You do not know the state of (he English Methodists. They do not roll in monev 164 LIFE OF THE like many of the American Methodists. It is with the utmost difficulty that we can raise five or six hundred pounds a year to supply our contingent expenses, so that it is entirely impracticable to raise five hundred pounds among them to build houses in America. It is true they might do much ; but it is a sad observation, they that have most money have usually least grace. The peace of God be with all your spirits. "I am your affectionate friend and brother, " J. Wesley. r After visiting Digby, and forming a small society, on Tuesday, July 26th, he set sail for Liverpool ; but in con- sequence of head winds, he did not reach his place of destination until Friday morning. Here he preached on the same evening in the Congregational meeting house, and again on Saturday, with much freedom to a people manifesting great willingness to hear the word. He con- tinued in Liverpool about four weeks, constantly preach- ing and visiting from house to house, and many heart? were powerfully touched under the word, so that when he took his leave, the society had doubled its number, in- creasing from twenty to forty members, several of whom were savingly converted to God. In the month of August, Mr. Garrettson left Liverpool for Shelburn ; and after a passage of forty-eight hours, he arrived safely, and found a society of sixteen member? Though at the commencement of his preaching in Shel- burn, he had only about fifty hearers, his congregation soon increased, so that their little chapel would not con- tain them all. Seeing the eagerness of the people to hear one of the rectors of the parish, a Mr. W r, gave him the use of his pulpit, which he occupied until some of the vestry, excited to opposition by witnessing the manifest displays of awakening power under the preaching of Mr, Garrettson, interposed their authority, and he silent!'. REV. F. GARRETTSON. 165 withdrew from the church, and immediately adopted means for enlarging their own house of worship : in the mean time he thanked the rector for his kindness, who very reluctantly acceded to^the wishes of his vestry in their opposition to Mr. Garrettson. Mr. Garrettson gives the following account of the com- mencement of Methodism in Liverpool. "Captain D., since gone to heaven, some time before any of us came to the place, met with Mr. Wesley's tract called The Charac- ter of a Metliodist, and having a great desire excited to hear one of the Methodist preachers, he sent to Shelburn, and requested brother John Mann to visit them. Shortly after, Mr. Mann paid them a visit, and many of the peo- ple heard him gladly, though much opposed by the Allen- ites before mentioned. As he went one Lord's day to the meeting house to preach, a party of these zealous disciples were determined, if possible, to prevent it. Colonel P , a very mild man, and a friend to all religious people, en- deavoured calmly to reason with them, but to little purpose, until another magistrate spoke more authoritatively, which induced them to relinguish their design, and to permit Mr. Mann peaceably to proceed. From open opposition they resorted to secret insinuations, with a view to preju- dice the people against us." Though it had been only eight years since they began building the town of Shelburn, there were, on the arrival of Mr. jGarrettson, about ten thousand inhabitants, mostly refugees — so rapidly had the town increased. He remained about six weeks in this place, occasionally visiting some adjacent villages, during which time he received one hundred and fifty members into the society. It was not all fair weather, however, while he was here He says he was stoned, had rotten eggs thrown at him, and when he embarked for Liverpool, the captain of a man of war cried out, " Hail for the Methodist preacher !" and soon a gun was fired, which obliged them to lower sail 15* i66 LIFE OF THE and lie had to submit to have his trunk examined, but wa dismissed with no other annoyance than the sound of some blasphemous oaths from the sailors. " Blessed be God, ! ' says he, " they had not power to hurt me." After a stormy passage he arrived at Liverpool. Here he remained two weeks, preaching the word with much assurance and com- fort. From thence he embarked for Halifax, and found the society he had left in peace. He remained in thir- place until the first day of February, during which time he had the happiness of receiving into society, as a broken- hearted penitent, a person who before had been famous for pouring contempt upon religion. He also visited the towns of Hbrton and Cornwallis, and preached with great freedom, evenings, as well as in the day time. To be idle, while he beheld so many precious souls " in the gali of bitterness and bonds of iniquity," he could not. Wc therefore find him braving the storms and tempests, from one place to another, travelling on foot through snow and mud, where the roads were too bad to admit his travelling on horseback, that he might, as widely as possible, extend the empire of his divine Lord and Master. Mr. Garrettson, in his semi-centennial sermon preached and published at the request of the New-York conference, speaking of his travels in Nova Scotia, says, " I traversed the mountains and valleys, frequently on foot, with my knapsack on my back, guided by Indian paths in the wil- derness, when it was not expedient to take a horse ; and I had often to wade through morasses half leg deep in mud and water, frequently satisfying my hunger with a piece of oread and pork from my knapsack, quenching my thirst from a brook, and resting my weary limbs on the leave.- of the trees. Thanks be to God ! he compensated me for all my toil, for many precious souls were awakened and onverted to God." To these privations, labours, and sufferings, he volun- tarily submitted. For however truly it may be said ot REV. f. GARRETTSON, 167 some, that their circumstances in life might have com- pelled them to equal, or even greater hardships in another calling, that they might secure a scanty maintenance, this cannot be said of Mr. Garrettson. His patrimonial estate was amply sufficient to yield him a comfortable mainte- nance, simply by his exercising over it a prudental super- intendence. But being called out from a sense of duty to his God and his fellow men, he willingly renounced the world " with all its pomps and vanities," and without pe- cuniary fee or reward, submitted to all this drudgery of labour, this " reproach of Christ," haviag respect solely unto the eternal " recompense of reward," and the salva- tion of sinners. The following letters will more fully unfold the state •and prospects of the work in which Mr. Garrettson was engaged in Nova Scotia, as well as the difficulties with which he had to contend. Those sent to him by Mr. Wesley are also inserted, because every thing coming from a man so eminently useful is very interesting : they serve moreover to explain some allusions in the letters of Mr Garrettson, as well as to exhibit the deep interest which Mr. Wesley took in every part of the work of God, how- ever remote from the immediate scene of his own labours. " Shclburn, April 25, 1786. " Rev. and dear Sir,— -Some weeks ago I left Halifax, and went to Liverpool, where the Lord is carrying on a blessed work : many precious souls of late have been set at liberty to praise a sin-pardoning God. There is a lively society. Allen's small party oppose us warmly. The greater part of the town attend our ministry, and the first people have joined our society. " A few days ago T came to this town, where I met dear afflicted brother Cromwell, and was glad to find him able to set out for Liverpool and Halifax. A negro man by the name of Morant, lately from England, who says he 168 LIFE OF THE was sent by lady Huntingdon, has done much hurt in soci ety among the blacks at Burch town. I believe that Satai sent him. Before he came there was a glorious work goin? on among these poor creatures, now (brother Cromwell not being able to attend) there is much confusion. The devil's darts are sometimes turned upon his own miserable head. " Our chapel in Shelburn is not able to contain the congregation, and at present our friends are not able to build a larger. If I thought it right, I could wish, yea. beg for fifty or sixty pounds from England to promote the building one. Blessed be God, there are some precious souls here ; but I expect many will be obliged to move to other places for want of business. The people in Halifax have had very little preaching of late, at which they are much tried. It is impossible for us to supply half thr • places where they want us. I have written to Mr. Asburv for help, but with no certainty of obtaining it, as the work ^eems to be spreading among them. " I am an unprofitable servant, but blessed be God, the desire of my soul is to be instrumental in spreading tin glorious gospel. I find a willingness to spend my all for God. I meet with many difficulties, but a moment's con- templation of the eternal world weighs down all. A mai. who labours for God in this country, needs a greater degree of grace, fortitude, and wisdom, than I possess. Dear sir if you are disposed to send books to be given to the^poor. or for sale, the sooner the better : let me know the condi- tions, and I will do the best in my power. The Saint's Rest and hymn books are wanted ; the small select hymn book would sell ; some pieces displaying the nature, man- ner, and doctrine of the Methodists; your journals and sermons ; Mr. Walsh's Life ; dear Mr. Fletcher's works iiave been a blessing in Cornwallis and Horton. I would o God they could be spread all through the country. I wrote in a former letter for some of the new prayer books adapted to the kingdom. REV. F. GARRETTSON. 169 f * We have bought two horses, which will do for the present. In some places the people will be able to sup- port the gospel. In general they are poor; but in my opinion this country wants nothing but pure religion and industry to make it desirable. I have seldom seen a bet- ter spring in Pennsylvania or Maryland. The winter has been very moderate, except a few weeks. Much of the land is very good, and I am informed they get from twenty to forty bushels of grain from an acre j and hay and vege- tables in great abundance. " I want to die to the world, and live wholly to God. This is the constant prayer and desire of your unworthy servant, " F. Garrettson," '"' TO THE REV. FREEBORN GARRETTSON. "London, Sept. 30, 1786. u My dear brother, — I trust before this comes to hand, you and Dr. Coke will have met and refreshed each other's bowels in the Lord. I can exceedingly ill spare him from England, as I have no clergyman capable of supplying his lack of service ; but I was convinced he was more wanted in America than in Europe. For it is impossible but offences will come, and of yourselves will men arise speak- ing perverse things, and striving to draw away disciples after them. It is a wonderful blessing they are restrained so long, till the poor people are a little grounded in the faith. You have need to watch over them with your might. Let those that have set their hands to the plough, conti- nually pray to the Lord of the harvest that he would send forth more labourers into his harvest. " It is far better to send your journals as they are, than not to send them at all. I am afraid it is too late in the season to send books this year, but I hope Dr. Coke has brought some with him to serve you for the present. I was far off from London when he set sail. Most of thosr 170 LIFE OF THE in England who have riches love money, even the Method- ists, at least those who are called so. The poor are the Christians. I am quite out of conceit with almost all those who have this world's goods. Let us take care to lay up our treasure in heaven. Peace be with your spirit. " I am your affectionate friend and brother, " J. Wesley.* ,c TO THE REV. FREEBORN GARRETTSON. " Nov. 30, 17S6. 14 My dear brother, — You have great reason to be thank- mi to God, that he lets you see the fruit of your labours. Whenever any are awakened, you do well to join them toge- ther immediately. But I do not advise you to go on too fast. It is not expedient to break up more ground than you can keep ; to preach at any more places than you or your brethren can constantly attend. To preach once in a place, and no more, very seldom does any good ; it only alarms the devil and his children, and makes them more upon their guard against a first assault. " Wherever there is any church service, I do not approve of any appointment the same hour ; because I love the Church of England, and would assist, not oppose it, all I can. How do the inhabitants of Shelburn, Halifax, and other parts of the province, go on as to temporal things ? Have they trade ? Have they sufficiency of food, and the other necessaries of life 1 And do they increase or decrease m numbers ? It seems there is a scarcity of some things, of good ink, for yours is so pale that many of your word- are not legible. " As I take it for granted you have had several conver- sations with Dr. Coke, I doubt not you proposed all youi difficulties to him, and received full satisfaction concern- ing them. Commending you to him, who is able to guide and strengthen you in all things, • ; I am your affectionate friend and brother, "I, Wesley." REV. F. GARRETTSON. m " P. S. Probably we shall send a little help for your building, if we live till conference. Observe the rules for building laid down in the minutes. " I see nothing of your journal yet. I am afraid of an- other American revolution. I know not how to get the enclosed safe to Dr. Coke, probably you know : on second thoughts I think it best not to write to him at present." " A LETTER FROM MR. GARRETTSON TO MR. WESLEY. " Halifax, March 10, 1787. " Rev. and dear Sir, — I received yours dated London, September 30th. As I have not had an opportunity of writing for a long time, I shall be the more particular in this. By a storm Dr. Coke was driven to Antigua, and it is not certain when he will be here. We are much dis- appointed, but hope it will all work together for good. " My time this winter has been spent mostly in Horton, Windsor, and Cornwallis. In the former there has been a divine display ; many convinced and converted to God. A few months ago the place was famous for the works of the devil — now for singing, praying, and hearing the word. If the work continue much longer as it has done, the greater part of the people will be brought in. I have had a blessed winter among them. The work greatly revives to the west. James Mann (a young man God has lately given us, whose praise is in the churches) writes, **God is carrying on his work in a glorious manner in Barrington ; the people flock from every quarter to hear the word : many have been convinced, and about fourteen have been set at liberty, some of whom were famous for all manner of wickedness. The fields here seem white for harvest.' " Brother Cromwell has had his station in Shelburn, but; is very poorly : he writes, * There seem to be very dull times in this town: hundreds have the small pox, &c. The Lord enabled me to go on as far as Cape Negro. I could only stay to preach a few sermons, &c. It would 172 LIFE OF THE do you good to see the dear people, some rejoicing, and others mourning. In this way they continued good pan of the night: depend upon it there is a blessed revival here. I returned to Shelburn very poorly, and expect, it God spares my life, to go home early in the spring.' " Brother John Mann at Liverpool writes, ' I am greatly comforted under an expectation of an ingathering here : -he society is very lively ; several added, and several lately converted,' &c. Dear sir, it would cause your heart to rejoice to know what a deadly wound Antinomianism has received in the town of Horton. My dear Master has given me one of the first lawyers in Cornwallis, and his lady. " Brother Black is very steady and zealous in our cause ; and has gone for a few weeks to the country. I can say this for Halifax, they are very kind in supporting brother Black's family : I think they give a guinea a week, and ■hey have got a famous chapel nearly ready to preach in: it will contain a thousand people. Religion, I fear, is not very deep as yet. " William Grandine, a young preacher, whom I men- tioned in a former letter, has returned to his friends. I am under a necessity of going to the west to relieve brother Cromwell. I know not what will become of the young work in Horton : God can raise up or send us a preacher. Poor Cumberland is still mourning for want of one. " I have received no books since I came to the province. We thought it expedient to have about fifty pounds' worth printed, as the printer was at leisure this winter. He printed several tracts very reasonably. Shall I ever see your face ? Lord grant that I may be found worthy to meet you in heaven. So far I have been kept by the power of the Spirit, and I hope I shall never bring a reproach on the good cause. I want to be more given up to the work, with a greater nearness to God. " J remain, as ever, your affectionate son, M F. Garrettson ,? 1 REV. F. GARRETTSON. 173 u P. S. Since I wrote this letter I received one from bro- ther Mann at Liverpool, saying, ' The Lord has broken in, in a wonderful manner, among the people, especially among the young. Within a few days twenty have been set at liberty : nine were converted one night.' Surely the Lord will do great things for us. " A LETTER FROM MR. GARRETTSON TO MR. WESLEY " Shelburn, Sept. 25, 17S6. " Rev. and dear Si?\ — Lest my other letter did not reach your hand I send this. My time this summer has been spent principally between this and Barrington, which has oc- casioned me many fatiguing journeys through the woods, many times half leg deep in mud and water. Blessed be God, he has supported me under all my difficulties. " When I first made my entrance among the people at Barrington, Satan strove in every possible way to hinder 1. The people were dissenters almost to a man. 2. There was a party of those they call New Lights, who stood in opposition, and a preacher of that denomination warned the people against me, telling them I was legal and desti- tute of faith. 3. A letter was sent by a Calvinist preacher who had ministered among them, warning them against an American. For a few days I was under great exercise about leaving the town, despairing of ever being the means of planting the gospel under these and other disadvantages. . " The second sabbath I preached among them many came out to hear, and a recommendatory letter was written on many hearts. Before, I had scarcely a place to lay my head ; since, I have not wanted friends. I visited a small harbour a few miles off, where there were about ten fami- lies. We had a divine display of the goodness of God : very few were left behind. Of these families I have joined sixteen in society, ten of whom know the pardoning love of God to their souls About thirty young and old have been baptized. One man cried out bitterly against his 16 LIFE OF THE *ife ; went out to hear ; was cut to the heart, and now both are rejoicing in the Lord. At the head of the har- bour we had a gracious display ; very few families escaped conviction more or less. I visited almost every family, as also on the two islands, and most of them were willing to submit to our American plan, as it is called. At the head the meeting house stands where I have joined a pros- perous society, as also at another harbour. Blessed be God, there have been many as clear and as powerful con- versions in this township, as I have seen in any part of the States. At different times this summer I have spent about eight weeks in the township, and have formed a small circuit, able, and willing, to support a preacher. There are about fifty members, twenty of whom I favour- ably hope have experienced the love of God, and many who are not in society are earnestly seeking. I appointed four leaders and two stewards. I am so far on my journey to Liverpool, and I expect to meet the Doctor in Halifax, in which place we are to hold a conference the middle of next month. " My hope revives for Shelburn ; there has been an ad- dition, and the society has become more lively. I have given them my consent to take one hundred pounds on interest toward building a church. Most of the coloured people whom Morant drew off have returned. I shall •not be satisfied till we get a preaching house in this place. [ must beg some from Europe and some from the States. " Some months ago I received a letter from Mr. Asburv, in which he intimated the desire they had of my being or- dained to superintend the work in the north. I answered the letter. A few days ago I received one from the Doc- tor on the same subject. Three considerations caused doubts to arise in my mind in relation to this important question. 1. The great desire I have of seeing England sooner or later. 2. My unfitness for so great a work. 3. There arc many in your connexion so much more fit RL\. F. GARRETTSON. 175 ior the place. I love the connexion, and want to do even thing in my power to promote it. Perhaps when I shall receive a letter from you, and meet with the Doctor, more light will be cast on the subject. Don't think hard of my not sending my journal. " I have not heard from brother Cromwell for some time. Brother Black informs there is a moving in Halifax. ] desire your prayers and counsel. God is love, and I wish to be more humble. " I still remain your affectionate, though unworthy son. " F. Garrettson." " FROM MR. WESLEY TO MR. GARRETTSON. " Macclesfield, July 16, 1787. "My, dear brother, — I have your letter of March 15, and that of May 20. In the former you give me a pleasing account of the work of God in Halifax and other towns in Nova Scotia; and indeed every where except poor Shelburn, from which I had an excellent account a few years ago. Shall the first be last? What could have occa- sioned the decrease of the work there ? St. Paul's advice is certainly good for all Methodist preachers — that it is good for a man not to touch a woman ; and 'if thou mays! be free, use it rather :' and yet I dare not exclude those who marry out of our connexion, or forbid to marry ; but happy are those who having no necessity laid upon them, stand fast in the glorious liberty. I commend you for laying as little burden upon the poor people as possible. " Before I had printing presses of my own I used to pay two and thirty shillings for printing two and twenty pages duodecimo. The paper was from twelve to sixteen shillings a ream. I do not blame you for printing those tracts. " But you do not send me your journal yet : surely you have had time enough to write it over. Dr. Coke seems to think you are irresolute, yet not willing to take advice re LIFE OF THE I hope better things of you, and your heart says to God nd man, what I know not, teach thou me. " I am your affectionate friend and brother, « J. Wesley." The following letter to Mr. Asbury, though dated before ;ome of the preceding, is inserted here, that the whok correspondence with Mr. Wesley might appear together " A LETTER FROM MR. GARRETTSON TO MR. ASBURY. « 1786. " My very dear brother, — I had the pleasure of receiving yours dated Charlestown, January 15, 1786, and consider- ed the contents. I had strange feelings on reading the account of poor G g, but was happy to hear of my dear old friend, brother Cole. I fear there is a wide door open for the last b p to do us much hurt. O that our dear Lord and Master may lay to his hand, and let the blind vrorld know that there is a God in Israel. " I have seen neither brother Cromwell, Black, or Mann, rince last fall, though I have frequently conversed with ihem by letter. My time this winter has been in Halifax, nnd in the different towns between that and Annapolis In Cornwallis the last time I was there I put a chapel on foot ; there were nearly five hundred dollars subscribed : how they will manage I know not. On my return I put one on foot in Windsor. In this town God has given us a loving society. A few friends are willing to build one at Annapolis, though they have had very little preaching for six months. This day they began to draw stone for building a church in this town also. It is to be the same size of that of Mr. White, except a pitch higher. I have preached several sermons in Dartmouth, a new town, ?ix miles from this. They seem very desirous, and made an offer of erecting a small house of worship, if we would pay attention to them. REV. F. GARRETTSON. 177 M God willing, what time I have to stay in this town 1 expect to spend as follows, viz. Sunday eight o'clock preach in our little chapel, which will hold about four hundred persons; ten o'clock preach in the poor house, where there are about a hundred people ; — I gave them books which attached them to me ; I hope great good will be done among them ; — at twelve o'clock in the preaching house ; four o'clock in a private house by the dock yard : and by candle light in the chapel. I preach every night in the week : Friday visit the prisoners. After all I feel myself a poor needy creature. You desired me to send our minutes. I wanted to have a little conference in this place the first of April, and to have sent a full account to your conference : but this cannot be, and as I know bro- ther Cromwell's mind, I shall give you as full an account as I can. Halifax, where there are forty members, will employ one preacher ; Horton circuit will employ another, where I left sixty members; Annapolis circuit will em- ploy another, where I left nearly one hundred members last fall ; but how they are now I know not. In these thret districts I expect brother Cromwell, brother Black, and brother Grandine, will be stationed. This brother Gran- dine is a young man we have taken on trial : I think he will be a preacher. Brother Mann must take his station at Liverpool, where there are about forty members. " There is Cumberland, where there is nothing but sin and the devil to hinder our gospel. This place would employ two preachers : however, one at present would do. There are about fifty members. In and around Shelburn there are between two and three hundred members, white and black. Much hurt has been done by a black man sent by lady Huntingdon, as brother Cromwell was not able to attend them constantly. Then there is the city of St. John's, and the country all around : I suppose there are t wenty thousand souls. A few of our friends are scattered in that part ; but in all that space there is only one clergy- 16* LIFE OF THE man, an old church parson. I was informed by a respectable man from the east, that there are hundreds of souls entirely destitute of the gospel. I have heard very little from Newfoundland: Mr. Wesley has sent brother Megary there, as I am informed by Dr. Coke. So you may see we are in want of three preachers. I made bold to open matters to Mr. Wesley, and begged of him to send one preacher from England, as a number of people would pre- fer an Englishman to an American. Many have refused hearing me on this account. However, this prejudice would soon wear away. The Lord knows I am willing to do every thing in my power for the furtherance of the gospel : but as to confining myself to Nova Scotia, or any part of the world, I could not ; a good God does not require it of me. " There are several thousand coloured people in this province, and the greater part of them are willing to be instructed. What do you think of sending Harry here this spring ? I think he would be very useful. I have no doubt but the people will support their preachers in this country. It would be very well if the preachers who come would bring money to pay their passage ; for we have but little money in hand, having been under the necessity of buying two horses. " Next week I purpose to go to Shelburn, where I ex- pect to meet brother Cromwell : if we think it expedient, and have an opportunity, one of us will attend conference, where we can state matters fairly. I send this letter lest { should have no other opportunity. A preacher will not do here unless he is able to take a circuit. Let him be- in orders. " Yours in love, " F. Garrettsox. " P. S. In Horton the Lord has given us a kind friend . rhough not converted, Mr. Crane. He and his brother-in- hw have offered two hundred dollars toward building a REV. T. GARRETTSOX. 179' churcli in that town. There are many places I should be glad to visit, if there were preachers to supply the places already mentioned. Dr. Coke wrote to me to visit New- foundland last fall, but it was not practicable." The preceding letters contain so full and explicit an account of the state of things in Nova Scotia, as well as the manner in which Mr. Garrettson filled up every moment of time in his Master's work, that the necessity of copious extracts from his journal is superseded. As his travels in this province form a very important era in the history of his life, I thought it necessary to be as particular as the limits of this work will allow in the details of his suffer- ings and labours in that country. Certainly his diligence and zeal, his self denial, his prayerfulness and watchful- ness, as well as the privations endured in this cold region of country, while they speak in the language of rebuke to " the slothful servant," may be exhibited as an example of encouragement to those zealous preachers who are emulous to excel in " every good work" connected with their high and responsible calling. The following anecdotes and reflections are from the pen of his amiable and pious daughter, to whose diligence in selecting from her venerable father's papers, and tran- scribing them, these memoirs are greatly indebted. "Thus has my dear and honoured father ended his notes to his printed journal. When they were commenced and when ended I cannot precisely say, but I think it is one of the last testimonies which he has left, probably written very near the close of his devoted life. His me- mory was stored with a rich fund of anecdote, and I regret exceedingly that of many passages of his life he has left no record. His journals while in Nova Scotia, except those in print, are I believe lost. I have been able to find only short notices of his labours while there, and among my earliest and most pleasant recollections are the details which my dear father used to give me of his residence in iSO LIFE OF THE that region of frost and snow. I well remember the dc light with which I used to climb his knee, and the impor- tunity with which I used to beg for a story, about Nova Scotia ; — and in riper years — but those halcyon days are for ever flown : tears will not recall them. At one time in order to attend his appointment, he rode through an unfrequented country, the hail driving in his face until nearly benumbed, he was obliged to lay the reins on the neck of his horse, and leave the animal by his own instinct to keep the road. There was no visible track, and turn- ing out of the road in that country exposed the traveller to the greatest fatigue, as his horse sunk in the mass ot unbeaten snow. At length he arrived at the only house he had seen ; his horse stopped at the door, and he had only life enough left to walk in and throw himself on the bed. None but children were within, who covered him with plenty of bed clothes, while he lay almost insensible for nine hours, and had nearly forfeited his valuable life by too great eagerness in his Master's cause. " He had often to cross the St. John's whose tide re- cedes, leaving its bed nearly empty, and again comes roar- ing up with great velocity and force, sweeping every thing before it, and elevating on its waves the vessels and ships which it had left dry. During its recession its bed is ford- able ; but in winter the crossing is dangerous on account of the large masses of ice it leaves behind. On one occa- sion his guide, instead of leading him up the river, went f a hundred sermons." During the above tour, he informs us of his being fre- quently occupied, when not engaged in travelling and preaching, in writing. It seems that Mr. Wesley, having heard much of Mr. Garrettson's experience, activity, and success in his Lord's work, had been very desirous oi receiving a written account of these things from himself. After considerable hesitancy, he concluded to gratify the wishes of Mr. Wesley in this respect, and accordingly set himself to transcribing such parts of his journal as he thought would be most beneficial to give to the public. Fearing, however, that he should not live to receive it unless sent immediately, and that Mr. Garrettson was un- necessarily scrupulous on this subject, Mr. Wesley ad* Pressed to him the following letter : — REV. F. GARRETTSON. 195 " FROM MR. WESLEY TO MR. GARRETTSON. " London, Jan. 24, 1789. M My dear brother, — It signifies but little where we are, so we are but fully employed for our good Master. Whe- ther you went, therefore, to the east, it is all one, so you were labouring to promote his work. You are following the order of his providence wherever it appeared, as a holy man strongly expressed it, in a kind of holy disor- dered order. But there is one expression that occurs twice or thrice in yours, which gives me some concern : you speak of finding freedom to do this or that. This is a word much liable to be abused. If I have plain Scripture or plain reason for doing a thing, well. These are my rules, and my only rules. I regard not whether I had freedom or no. This is an unscriptural expression, and a very fallacious rule. I wish to be in every point, great and small, a scriptural rational Christian. " In one instance formerly, you promised to send me your journal. Will you break your word, because you do not find freedom to keep it ! Is not this enthusiasm 1 O be not of this way of thinking. You know not whither it. may lead you. You are called to square your useful life below by reason and by grace. But whatever you do with regard to me, you must do quickly, or you will no more in this world. " Your affectionate friend and brother, "J. Wesley." The journal was sent, but in consequence of the Joss of the ship in which it was despatched, it never arrived Of this circumstance Mr. Garrettson was not apprized until the following letters from Mr. Wesley gave him the information. 196 LIFE OF THE " Chester, July 15, 1789 "My dear brother, — You are entirely in the right There can be no manner of doubt that it was the enemy of souls that hindered your sending me your experience. Many parts of both of your inward and outward experience ought by no means to be suppressed. But if you are minded to send any thing to me, you have no time to lose. What- ever you do for me you must do quickly lest death have quicker wings than love. A great man observes that there is a three fold leading of the Spirit : some he leads by giving them on every occasion apposite texts of Scrip- ture; some by suggesting reasons for every step they take, (the way by which he chiefly leads me,) and some by im- pressions ; but he judges the last to be the least desirable way, as it is often impossible to distinguish dark impres- sions from divine, or even diabolical. " I hope you will not long delay to write more particu- larly to your affectionate friend and brother, " J. Wesley." 11 FROM MR. WESLEY TO MR. GARRETTSON. "London, Feb. 3, 1790. M My dear brother , — Two or three weeks ago I had the pleasure of a letter from you, dated August 23, 1789, giv- ing me a comfortable account of the swift and extensive progress of the work of God in America. You likewise informed me that you had written an account of your life, and directed it should be sent to me ; and I have been expecting it, from day to day, ever since, but have now almost given over my expectation ; for, unless it comes soon it will hardly overtake me in the present world. You see time has shaken me by the hand, and death is not far behind. While we live let us work our Lord's work be- times, and in his time he will give us our full reward. " I am your affectionate friend and brother, " J. Wesley." REV. F. GARRETTSON. 197 While Mr. Garrettson was finishing a letter in which he designed to enclose another copy of his journal, the public prints announced to him the death of that great man of God, the Rev. John Wesley. Being thus disappointed of gratifying the desires of his venerable friend, Mr. Garrett- son concluded to print the journal, somewhat enlarged, in America. It was republished in Europe, both in the Eng- lish and French languages, and has no doubt proved a blessing to very many souls. June 9, 1789, Mr. Garrettson set off on another tour to the north. According to his usual custom, as he passed through the towns, he stopped and preached to the people, and generally found much attention to the word. On Sunday the 14th, he preached in the town of Bedford, and formed a society. Though the people in this place had been educated in the Calvinistic faith, many of them be- came convinced of its errors, and were glad to hear a sys- tem of doctrines exhibited more consistent with the divine perfections, and better adapted to the condition of man. Both at the Stony-street church on the morning of the 16th, and at the English church in the evening at Peekskill, he found much freedom in preaching the word of truth ; and at General Van Cortlandt's, where he lodged for the night, he found an agreeable and an affectionate family. After passing through the highlands, and preaching at Mr. Jackson's, where he found a people apparently strug- gling after the liberty of God's children, he paid a visit to* Mr. Cook, an exemplary and zealous preacher, whom he found near death, but whose soul was happy in the enjoyment of his God. He died in peace soon after. He had been iifteen years in the work of the ministry, was a son of affliction, naturally subject to great dejection of spirits, too modest to complain, and in the midst of his sufferings ovinced by his patient submission to the allotments of pro- vidence his constant faith in God. "The last words I heard him utter," says Mr. Garrettson, were, " I feel my- 18 198 LIFE OF THE setf an unprofitable servant, but Jesus is precious to my soui I am now reminded of what I have often told the people in my preaching of the happiness of dying saints. I now see angels around my bed, waiting to convey my happy soul to heaven." At Dr. Bartlett's he met Bishop Asbury, in company with one of the preachers, with whom he took sweet counsel, heard him preach, and then passed on to Rhinebeck, where he preached, and found a few whose hearts the Lord had touched, but felt somewhat distressed on account of the indifference manifested by most of the people to the things of eternity. Perhaps he little thought at that time that this place was to become his future resi- dence, connected with a partner in life so admirably quali- fied to participate in his joys and sorrows. From Rhine- beck he went to Hudson, and thence to Albany, (visiting the intermediate places,) where he preached in the assem- bly room, but found much opposition among the citizens generally to the truths he delivered. A few, however, bowed a willing obedience to the word, and a small soci- ety seemed to be in a flourishing state. In Schenectady also he found a strong current of prejudice setting in against his endeavours to do good, though he was permitted to preach in the English church. The good seed, however, sown in these places, did not entirely " fall by the way side," as some are yet living who received their first reli- gious impressions under Mr. Garrettson's preaching, and how many will be found " in that day," who can tell ? The following conversation which Mr. Garrettson relates shows the pernicious influence which an erroneous doctrine has over the hearts and practices of some people. " Mon- day, July 6," he says, " I set out on a journey to the north, and on my way I overtook an old gentleman, who said. 1 1 expect you are a minister. O ! it is a blessed work it* you are called to it. I am a follower of Christ, and know my peace made with God.' How, said I, do you know that 1 ' By the spirit which he has given me.' Do you. REV. P. GARRETTSON. 199 said I, know that your sins are forgiven ? ' O yes.' Do you, said I, live in sin ? * Yes, we are all sinners.' Pray, said I, how can you know your sins forgiven, if you live in sin ? ' I have the imputed righteousness of Christ, and it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwells in me.* Don't you, said I, swear sometimes 1 ' Swear, yes, and I have been drunk too, many times since I was made a new creature, but my comfort is, I cannot fall.' What, said I, would become of your soul if you were to die drunk ? « Die drunk ! what would you think to see the sun fall ? was it ever known that a saint died drunk? Impossible!' Well, said T, according to your doctrine, if you always keep yourself intoxicated with strong liquor, you will never die. Sin made man mortal ; but I cannot find from Scripture that drunkenness makes him immortal. * Sir,' said he, ' 1 per- ceive you are a rank Arminian, and I would not go the length of my foot to hear you preach, for you are an ac- cuser of the brethren ; and hold out a very uncomfortable doctrine to God's dear children.' Pray, said I, to what de- nomination do you profess to belong 1 * I am an old Eng- lishman, and a convert of Mr. Whitefield's, and a New Light by profession, from the sole of my foot to the crown of my head.' After I endeavoured to set his danger before him, I wished him well ; and riding thirty miles 1 found great liberty to preach my dear Lord's gospel, from the language of the jailer, ' What shall T do to be saved?' " Passing through the country, and preaching to attentive congregations, he came to Ashgrove, where he found a number'of kind friends, members of society, who had erect- ed a house of worship. He observes that when he first visited that place, he found some Methodist emigrants from Ireland, most of whom, however, had become quite luke- warm in religion, but who were reanimated by his preach- ing, and quite a number of others were awakened to a sense of the importance of religion. On this circuit Mr. Darius Dunham had been instrumental in the conversion 200 LIFE OF THE of a number of souls, so that on the present visit Mr. Gai- rettson found a thriving society. Perhaps the following sketch of the rise of the society in Ashgrove may not be uninteresting to the reader. It is taken chiefly from a communication from the Rev. D. Brayton, published in the Methodist Magazine for 1827 Before the revolutionary war, a Mr. Ashton emigrated from Ireland to this place, who, in conjunction with Mr. Philip Embury — the same Embury who had been instrumental in raising the society in New- York — formed a society at Ashgrove. It seems that after the arrival of the regular preachers from England, Mr. Embury not finding his ser- vices needed in New- York, in company with some others of the society, removed to this place. They had no help until the arrival of Mr John Baker, also an Irish emigrant, in the year 1786. After his arrival, he made several efforts to obtain the assistance of some travelling preacher, but was not successful, on account of the paucity of their num- ber, until 1788, when, in answer to a petition sent to the conference, Mr. Lemuel Smith was sent to take charge of the society, under the direction of Mr. Garrettson. He brought the society into regular order, and extended his labours with effect into other places. He was succeeded by Mr. Dunham before mentioned. This society may be considered as the centre of Methodism in this northern part of the country. After holding a quarterly meeting at Ashgrove, which was attended with signal displays of the power of God. Mr. Garrettson returned to Albany, where he met the little society. The next day he rode to Dr. H.'s. His horse being so lame as not to be able to carry him, he set off on foot, and after travelling nearly twenty miles, he came to Spencertown, where he preached with much satisfaction Notwithstanding much opposition had been made here against the work of God, he found it in a prosperous state, In Sheffield, also, he found some souls brought to tht REV. P. GARRETTSON. 201 knowledge of the truth. In Canaan he was permitted to preach in the Presbyterian meeting house, and found the minister and people of a very catholic spirit, and willing to promote the cause in which he was engaged. Here, also, he found the work of God prospering under the labours of Messrs. Bloodgood and Wigton. Though the people in these parts, he says, had been much troubled with Antinomianism, he found the gloomy doctrine reced- ing before the rising beams of the sun of truth. July 23, he came to the town of Sharon, in Connecticut, where he found a number of precious souls, to whom he preached in the open air, there being so many assembled that no house could accommodate them. After remarking that he believed the Lord had a work to do in this place, he records the following incidents : — " I was sweetly drawn out in writing till about two o'clock. As the man of the house was gone out early in the morning, I went into the meadow to catch my horse. He was tied with a long rope to feed in the edge of the meadow, and as I had hold of the rope gathering him to me, he gave a sudden jerk, and by some means the rope got around my arms and body so that in less than half a minute I was thrown, and entirely bereft of my senses. How long I lay in this situation, I know not ; for no per- son was near me. I knew not who I was, nor where 1 was. After lying, for a considerable time, in as much pain as if I had been on a rack or wheel, I suppose rolling from side to side, I made an attempt to lay my head on my hat for a pillow, and saw the two first letters of my name in my hat, and immediately I knew myself, and cried out, is this poor Garrettson ? Where is he, and what is the matter ? I received a small degree of knowledge, and arose from the earth, walked to the house, and was laid upon a bed. Providentially a skilful surgeon was at hand, who came to me and found my right shoulder dislocated,* and my * From the effects of this accident he never fully recovered. 18* 202 LIFE Of THE left wrist, thumb, and shoulder, and several fingers, much strained, my body severely bruised, and several contusions on my head. Several assisted, and my shoulder was re- placed, blood was let, and my other wounds bound up. Immediately after I was bled I recovered my senses as perfectly as ever, and was enabled to look up by faith to my beloved Saviour and received a strong confidence in him. Many of the inhabitants of the town came in to see me, and my soul was so happy that I was constrained with tears to exhort all that came near. I think I never had so strong a witness of perfect love. I was enabled to bless God for the affliction, and would not have had it otherwise. I do believe it was rendered a blessing to the place. I desired a person to borrow a carriage ; he did, and carried me as far as Oblong, and the next day to Dover, where I received strength to preach to a large congregation in the church, to administer the sacrament to about twenty, and it was a powerful time. The two following days I rode about forty miles across mountains almost impassable for a carriage, and suffered much pain ; but my mind was sweetly calm and happy. " Wednesday I rode to Mr. Braiday's, still accompanied by my kind friend, A. Lion, who took tender care of me. for I was not able to comb my head, to dress myself, or to get in or out of the carriage without much pain, and yet I was enabled to preach with strength and freedom." From thence he passed on through Newcastle, where he held a meeting and witnessed a great display of the power of God ; but finding himself very feeble from his recent wounds, he took a passage by water, and on Tuesday arrived safely at New- York, where he remained seven days to re- cruit his strength. The ardour of his soul in his Master's work would not permit him longer to remain in the city. Though still suffering from the effects of his recent bruises, he left New- York, in company with a friend, to attend ^ome appointments on Long Island, On Tuesday even- REV. P. GARRETTSON. 203 mg he preached by candle light in Newtown, and the next day at the court house in the town of Hempstead. Long Island has become somewhat famous in the his* tory of our country, as being the theatre of much indivi- dual suffering in consequence of its having been occupied for a considerable time by the invading armies of Great Britain. But before this event, it was visited by some oi the Wesleyan Methodist missionaries. Captain Webb, the efficient helper of Mr. Embury in New-York, as early as 1768, passed over to Long Island, preached in Jamaica, Newtown, and some other places, with considerable suc- cess, many souls being awakened and converted as seals to his ministry. The political troubles, however, which soon succeeded these incipient attempts at planting Me- thodism in this place, checked its progress for a season, and the whole island was almost entirely abandoned, dur- ing the war, by ministers of all denominations. On the. return of peace, in 1783, the way was opened for spread ing the gospel of the grace of God among the people. The Rev. Philip Cox was the first regular preacher stationed on Long Island. This was in 1784. He found many who had not forgotten the preaching of Captain Webb. He was succeeded in 1785 by the Rev. Ezekiel Cooper, who preached extensively on the Island. Many to this day remember his zealous efforts with gratitude. In 1786 Mr Cooper was succeeded by the Rev. Thomas Ware. Great attention to the things of religion was excited by these men of God. Mr. Ware was followed by the Rev. Messrs. Moriarty and Cloud, whose labours were greatly owned oi God. In 1789, the time Mr. Garrettson visited the island, the Rev. Messrs. Phoebus and John Lee were stationed there. At this time there were two hundred and twenty- four members in the Church in the several societies which had been formed.* Mr. Garrettson visited most of the v The following account, so illustrative of the particular care which God exercises over his people, respecting the introduction af 204 LIFE OP THE principal places in the Island where the Methodist preach- ers could gain access, but says that though he found some precious souls who were breathing after God, there was a Methodism into the town of Southhold, is related on the best autho- rity ; having been taken from the lips of those who were witnesses of the facts. In 1794 Methodism was brought into Southhold, and the manner of its introduction is worthy to be recorded, as it will show the effi- cacy of prayer and the peculiar agency of the Holy Spirit in the spread of the gospel. A Mrs. Moore, who had been converted to God through the instrumentality of the Methodists, removed to this place ; and although there were churches and ministers not very remote from it, yet no very efficient means had been used to build up the cause of God, or to arrest the spread of iniquity. Living at too great a distance from that ministry which had been the means of her conversion, and finding in her village two females like mind- ed with herself, they agreed to meet together every Monday even- ing, to pray that God would send such a minister among them as would feed their own souls, and be made the means of awakening the wicked inhabitants of the place. They met accordingly two evenings at the house of Mr. P. Vail, who, at that time, was not a member of any church, but so far favourable as to gratify his wife in bringing her female friends to his house for prayer meeting. On the third night of their meeting, Mr. V., returning home weary from the business of the day, had retired about the time they usually met, which rendered it inconvenient to hold it that evening. This circumstance almost discouraged them, fearing that it arose from his dislike to the exercises, and that they should be deprived of this means of grace. However, they agreed to return home, and remem - ber individually before God the great object for which they had met together. During the exercises of this evening they felt an unusual spirit of prayer : Sister Moore in particular, who continued until near midnight ; her whole soul was drawn out to the Lord^ nor could she be denied : the wickedness of the place and the want of an engaged ministry were continually before her. At the close of this struggle she felt an assurance that God had heard them, at- tended with these words, " I have heard their cry, and I am come down to deliver them ;" and so strong was this conviction that she began to praise God for what she knew he would do. At this very time Wilson Lee, a Methodist minister, was in New London, and had his trunk on board a vessel to go to his appoint ment in New-York. Waiting for a passage over night, the wind REV. F. GARRETTSON. 205 lamentable spirit of indifference to the things of religion manifested by most of the people, and a determined oppo- sition evinced by others. Among other things which have tended to retard the progress of Methodism on this island, is the prevalence of Quakerism as held and propagated by Elias Hicks. Whether his peculiar principles were much developed at the time of which we are now speaking, I cannot say, but as he was one of the oldest ministers of that society, and as he was raised up on Long Island, and devoted much of his time to the propagation of his principles, it is highly probable that the minds of the people over which he has had influence, have been for a long time tinctured, I might perhaps say poisoned, with his peculiar notions. It is not from hearsay that I assert that he undervalued the sacred Scriptures, set aside the proper Deity and atonement ot being contrary, he felt an unusual struggle for thn salvation of souls, attended with a constant impression to cross the sound to Long Island. Never having- been there, and having his work in another direction, he endeavoured for some time to dismiss it, but perceiv- ing that it still followed him, resolved, if his way were opened, to proceed It should be observed that his peculiar exercises in New- London were on the same night, and almost at the same hour, in which these pious females were engaged in prayer on Long Island Next morning on going to the wharf, he found a ploop ready to sail for Southhold, and believing his call now to be from the Lord, immediately went on board. Making inquiry on his landing if there were any praying people in the place, he was immediately directed to the house of Mrs Moore, who seeing him coming, and knowing a Methodist minister from his appearance, she, without a persona! acquaintance or previous introduction, came out to the door, and said, " Thou blessed of the Lord, come in !'' He then told the end for which he came, and related the peculiar providence which had directed him on his way, and she, in turn, the circumstance of then prayer meeting, and the assurance they received that God had heard them. A congregation was soon collected, and he who had felt such a desire for the salvation of souls, found here a ready peo pie to whom the word of the Lord was attended with power. Shortly afterwards a class was formed, and from that period to this Method ism has continued in this place. 206 LIFE OF THE Christ, and openly denounced all other ministers as hire- lings, their modes of worship as the offspring of supersti- tion, Bible, Missionary, and other benevolent societies a? mischievous in their design and tendency. These preju- dices, to be sure, were mingled with an apparent spirit of piety, and a commendable zeal for the operation and. in- dwelling of the Holy Spirit, thereby facilitating the pro- gress of his pernicious errors.* At an early period of the settlement of the Island, these people established societies, and so far as their influence extended, they presented a powerful barrier to the progress of the distinguishing doc- trines preached by Mr. Garrettson and his associates. The east end and interior of the Island were settled principally by emigrants from New-England, most of whom had their minds strongly imbued with the peculiarities of the Cal- vinistic creed, and were of course averse to those points of Methodism which came in contact with unconditional election and reprobation. And perhaps there are no peo- ple to be found on our continent who manifest a stronger tenacity in adhering to the traditions of their fathers than the inhabitants of Long Island. To this rigid adherence to what they had early been taught, they in general, espe- cially in the interior of the Island, join great simplicity of manners, an unostentatious show of piety, and great economy in their household affairs, together with a regular exterior deportment. These appear to have been, and are at the present day, the characteristic peculiarities of the inhabitants of Long Island. Some of these traits of cha- racter are undoubtedly favourable to the reception of the gospel, unless when accompanied with a pharisaical right- eousness, while some of their tenets are no less unfavour- able. The power of God, however, in many places, * It is but justice to remark that a great portion of the societies of this denomination denounce tho peculiarities of Elias Hicks, and have made strenuous efforts to check the progress of his doc< brines. These are now distinguished from him and his followers by >eintr called the " Orthodox Friends," REV. F. GARRETTSON. 207 accompanied the delivery of his word by the Methodist preachers, and made it the instrument of salvation to the souls of sinners. After the third tour around this district, in which he found a gradual spread of the work of God, and increase- to the several societies which had been formed, Mr. Gar- rettson set off to attend " The Council," as it was called. It seems that in consequence of the great increase of preachers, and their extending themselves over so large a tract of country, measures had been devised to supersede the necessity of their assembling altogether in one place annually. It had been the practice of Mr. Wesley from the time he commenced calling the preachers together in conference, to assemble fhem once a year in the same place. At the beginning of Methodism in this country, a similar plan was adopted ; but in consequence of the great extent of country over which the preachers spread themselves, it was soon found inconvenient for them all to convene annually at the same place. To remedy this inconvenience several conferences were held in the same year, but the acts of one conference were not considered binding unless they were sanctioned by them all ; and as this could not be generally expected, it was plainly seen that this method of doing things tended to the dissolution of the body. Such was the state of things when it was resolved to have a Council. It was to consist of the bishops and pre- siding elders, provided that it should never consist of a less number than nine. The following members composed the first Council, which met in Baltimore the first day of December, 1789 :— Francis Asbury, bishop ; Philip Bruce, Freeborn Gar- rettson, Joseph Everitt, John Dickins, Nelson Reed, Rich- ard Ivey, Reuben Ellis, Edward Morris, James O'Kelly. Lemuel Green, James O. Cromwell, elders. It was soon perceived that this method of conducting 20S LIFE OP THE the affairs of the Church was very far from being satisfac- tory, and hence the Council assembled only the second time. After attending this first Council, Mr. Garrettson observes, u I was resolved, God being my helper, to be more than ever engaged in the blessed work of God, it being my earnest prayer that the flame in the north might equal what I had witnessed in the south. On my return I felt something of it in Philadelphia, and when I came to New-York, I preached with an enlargement of soul which I had never before experienced in that city. I believed that the brethren would have glorious times, and so it came to pass, for in a few days after I left the city a most gracious work commenced first in a prayer meeting, ex- tending itself to the congregation ; and I saw and felt something of the same flame in many places on the dis- trict, in my winter visitations." Soon after this Mr. Garrettson set off on a tour through some parts of Connecticut and Massachusetts on his way to Boston. In order to show the diligence and zeal with which he usually discharged his duty, and the manner in which he was received in this part of the country, the fol- lowing extracts from his journal are given : — " Having stayed a few days in the city, on Wednesday. June the 2d, accompanied by Harry who is to travel with me this summer, I rode as far as Miles's Square, and preach- ed to more people than could get into the house. In the evening I rode to brother M.'s, at East Chester, and felt myself not so much drawn out as I could have wished. "Thursday 3d, the appointment was in New Rochelle church, where I preached from, ' O my dove which art in the clefts of the rock,' &c. I had a degree of freedom while comparing the Church to a dove ; but more while speaking of the rock and the secret places of the stairs ; and when I came to speak on the latter part of the text, ' Let me see thy countenance, let me hear thy voice ; for sweet is thy voice and thy countenance is comely, 1 I REV. F. GARRETTSON. 209 was much drawn out, and a small moving ran through the people. In the evening I retired to brother S.'s and was very comfortable in a kind family, and blessed be God I felt my soul somewhat refreshed. "Friday 4th, we had a solemn meeting at the Plains. Though it was a wet day many came to hear the word ; and gave great attention. My mind is sweetly drawn to love the ways of the Lord. I found great freedom to de- scribe the pure in heart. "Saturday 5th, we met in King-street: more people gathered than the house could contain, and I found great enlargement in speaking. Harry exhorted after me to the admiration of the people. When I came into the house I found a man extremely ill with the colic. I ordered him to drink a pint of cold water, and he was relieved in less than three minutes. I returned to Brother C.'s and was very comfortable. " On the Lord's day we met in North Castle church, where I was surrounded by a listening multitude while I explained, * A King shall reign in righteousness,' &c. I found great freedom to speak the word, and we had much of the divine presence. Again in the afternoon I was ena- bled to expatiate on Matt, xxii, 12, ' Friend, how earnest thou hither not having on a wedding garment?' I think there were more people than I had ever seen together in this place. I suppose Bedford court house would not have contained half the people, so that I was obliged to stand under the trees : many of the rougher kind of people attended, some of whom did not behave very orderly. It is not com- mon to be threatened with stoning in this country ; the children of the devil would threaten a long time before they would venture on such a work, for the laws are very strict and the grearer part of the people favour religion. In the evening I retired to brother L.'s, and I trust enjoyed the company of my blessed Master. " Monday 7th, preached at brother B/s in the manor 19 210 LIFE OF THE to a crowded audience from, 1 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God,' &c. I had great liberty to point out the benefit of our glorious dispensation. Our dear Lord owned his blessed word, and my spirit did rejoice in God my Saviour. " Thursday 8th, many more came together at brother H.'s than could crowd into the house : we had a joyful season ; my own spirit is filled with sweetness. The peo~ pie of this circuit are amazingly fond of hearing Harry. ff Wednesday 9th, I rode to Sing Sing and had an at- tentive audience while I enforced, « Now the just shall live by faith,' &c. I have not preached a sermon with more sweetness since I left New- York. In the afternoon, at General Van Courtland's, near Croton river, I had great comfort while declaring, 1 It is God that justifieth, who is he that condemneth ?' " Thursday 10th, though a wet day, the church at was well filled and I had much pleasure in describing the walk and prosperity of the blessed man, Psalm i, 1,2, 3, and in the afternoon the old English church was nearly filled. I showed that, 1 He that is born of God doth not commit sin,' &c. Harry, though it was a heavy cross, ex- horted afterwards. I lodged at the old governor's, where I was comfortable with a kind family. The governor was gone far to the west to make a treaty with the Indians. " I highly approve of the conduct of our statesmen re- specting the poor Indians. On the frontiers of other states they encroach on the Indians' property ; here they have made a large purchase from them, and it is a rare thing to hear of an Indian's killing a white person. "Friday 11th, I rode over the highlands and at three o'clock preached to a large congregation among the mountains: in this place our gracious Lord has raised many from the dead. I felt my heart much alive among the people while I explained St. John's advice to and ac- count of the church of Philadelphia. REV. P. GARRETTSON. 211 |* Sunday 13th, our horses gave us the slip, so that we had to send five miles after them, and just as I was deter- mining to set out on foot the man brought them to the door. We got to the place in good time ; but the day was very wet and the house so very leaky that we had a dis- agreeable time at Fishkill. In this place the Lord hath given us a few good souls, and I trust that we shall have a precious gathering. " Monday, early in the morning we set out and called on the son of the widow at whose house preaching was the day before : he was in deep distress of soul, and I trust it will not be long before he shall be set at liberty. In the afternoon I preached to a crowd of people from EzekiePs vision of the dry bones, and I trust there was a shaking among the people who came from almost all parts of Oswego, some perhaps from curiosity to hear Harry. " Tuesday 15th, I had but a small congregation assem- bled in a barn at a new place among the Presbyterians : the next day I preached at Rhinebeck, and spent the day following comfortably with my old friend, R. Sands, Esq. "Friday 18th, I advanced toward the Cold spring, and preached at my good friend Rowe's from, 1 Loose him and let him go.' Spent an hour with Dr. Bartlett and had a comfortable meeting at Mr. Lewis's. Jesus is precious to me ; ' his ways are delightful. "Saturday 1 9th, I rode to Mr. Herrick's, where I preached in the afternoon I had great freedom to preach from ' In hell he lifted up his eyes,' &c. Harry exhorted after me with much freedom. " June 20th. This day I was met by a Churchman who desired me to come and pray with his family : I did so with freedom ; then rode on to Sharon, where I preached to about one thousand people under the trees from, ' O my dove, thou art in the clefts of the rock,' &c. I was much drawn out and great attention was paid to the word. The 212 LIFE OF THE devil strives very hard to hinder the spreading of the gos- pel in this town : but blessed be God, many are undei awakenings and I think the kingdom of Satan will be greatly shaken. "Monday 21st. This was a day of great trial to me arising from a very plausible story told of one who I believe was entirely innocent of the charge. My heart was pained within me, but I could not convince those who were the accusers of his innocence. In the afternoon I was obliged to preach in the open air again for want of room in the house. " 22d. This morning I called a few together and exa- mined into that strange affair, and am convinced of the innocence of the accused. I rode about fifteen miles and preached in the Presbyterian meeting house to some hundreds from 1 If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and sinner appear.' It is encouraging to see such hearers affected under the word. I am inform- ed that when I preached in this meeting house last spring Mr. G., who was one of my hearers, was very much touch- ed, and a few weeks ago died a penitent. I have great hope for the people of this town. I had a comfortable time at R , Esq., who has a friendship for us. " Wednesday 23d, I rode about twelve miles to Litch- field, and was surprised to find the doors of the Episcopai church open and a large congregation waiting for me. I preached from, ' Enoch walked with God,' and I believe good was done. I left Harry to preach another sermon and went on to the centre of the town ; the bell rang and 1 preached to a few in the Presbyterian meeting house, and lodged with a kind Churchman. " I preached in the skirts of the town where I was op- posed by who made a great disturbance. I told him the enemy had sent him to pick up the good seed, turned my back on him, and went on my way accompanied by brother W. and H. where I found another waiting com REV. F. GARRETTSON. 213 pany, in another part of the town, to whom I declared, ' Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish.' In this town we have given the devil and the wicked much trou- ble ; we have a few good friends. " Friday 25th, we rode fourteen miles through the rain, many people gathered, and I found freedom to declare, 1 If we say that we have no sin we deceive ourselves :' several were in tears, and there was a shaking among the people. The squire and several other Calvinists came out to con- verse on the disputed points of unconditional election and reprobation, the freedom of the will, and the perseverance of the saints. I had to discourse with them until nearly midnight, and I believe some of them were much shaken. We have hard work to plant what they call Arminianism in this county : we stand in need of the wisdom of the serpent and the harmlessness of the dove. " Saturday 26th, I rode a few miles and preached to a company of people assembled in a barn ; my text was, 4 But deliver us from evil.' I had a considerable degree of free- dom in enforcing the necessity of being delivered from all sin ; some believed it and some did not ; among the rest one good old man who came a considerable distance on foot, said the Lord is with us and I am satisfied. A few weeks ago he was a warm pleader for the unconditional decrees ; but now he sees differently. " Sunday 27th, I preached in Farmington to about three hundred people, and had great freedom in showing that Christ tasted death for every man, and that as the way was open, if they did not repent they would justly be damned. There are a few precious souls here who cleave to our doctrine and have united to our society. " 28th, we set out for Boston, rode fifteen miles, stop- ped at Hartford, and preached in the court house to five or six hundred people, who seemed to give great heed to the words wbich were spoken : while Harry gave an exhortation some rude people behaved very uncivilly. The 19* 214 LIFE OP THE two following days we travelled and arrived at Worcester about four o'clock, where I was kindly entertained by Mr. Chanler, but the people appeared to have a small share of religion : I went from one end of the town to the other and could get no one to open the court house and gather the people. I went to the house of the Rev. Mr. B . I was asked to take tea. I drew near, and inquired if it was not customary to ask a blessing ? No, said he, not over tea: I then drew back from the table: his countenance changed, and he said in a very short manner, * You may ask a blessing over your dish.' Pinching want might drive me to eat and drink in such a case. I had an hour's conversation with him. It is lamentable for masters in Israel to deny the power of religion. "Tuesday, July 1st, we rode through a very pleasant country ; I never saw more elegant buildings in a country place than those that surround Cambridge, and the col- lege has an imposing appearance. I got into Boston, about seven o'clock, after riding forty-eight miles. I boarded Harry at the master Mason for the Africans, and I took my own lodgings with a private gentleman, who had been a Methodist in England, but has, I fear, fallen from the spirit of Methodism. " Sunday 4th, I attended church in the morning, and gave great uneasiness to the people with whom I lodged on account of my not communing. I never in my life saw such a set of communicants, dressed in the height of the mode, and with all the frippery of fashion — so much of the world in their manners and appearance that my mind was most easy to look on. In the afternoon I preached in a meeting house which had formerly belonged to Di Mather. Monday evening likewise in the same place. Tuesday I went from end to end of the town and visited several who were friendly, a few of whom were formerly Methodists, but I fear they are not such in practice. I REV. V, GARRETTSON. 215 engaged the use of the meeting house, and a place for a preacher to board, and on Wednesday set out for Provi- dence. I had rode but about thirty miles when I met brother Lee, and while we were sitting on our horses talk- ing, an old gentleman rode up and asked us to go to his house and preach that night : we went and had a comfort- able meeting, and I also preached the next morning : after dinner we parted ; brother Lee consented to go to Boston and make a trial there until I could send another preacher. I reached Providence about five o'clock ; the bell rang, and I had an opportunity of preaching in good old Mr. Snow's meeting house. " Friday 9th, I had a sweet time in retirement, and in the evening addressed a larger congregation than I had the night before. " Sunday 1 1th, with freedom I preached in the morning at six o'clock. I officiated all day for good Mr. Snow, and at six Harry preached in the meeting house to more than one thousand people. I appointed to preach the next morn ing at five o'clock, and I suppose three hundred people attended to hear my last sermon. I had a sweet time in Providence. I have no doubt but the Lord begun a good work in many hearts. I left many in tears. I left town about nine o'clock, rode about thirty-five miles, and lodged at Colonel P 's, whom I found to be a very kind man, and I trust the family were stirred up: the daughter seemed to be much affected. "Tuesday lath, I rode forty-five miles to Hartford, and preached the next evening to as ill behaved an audience as I have ever seen in New-England. The people of this place, with a few exceptions, seem to be fast asleep in the arms of the wicked one. The following night I preached again, and some of what are called the gentry behaved so ill that I was under the necessity of breaking up the meeting and declining to preach by candle ligh$. " Sunday 18th, I preached again in the state house, to 216 LIFE OP THE a few who gave attention. I rode to Weathersfield and preached at eleven o'clock, and likewise at two o'clock, and then returned and preached at Hartford at five o'clock to about two hundred people. I am apprehensive from the state of religion in this place that the ministers do not enjoy the life and power of religion ; they seem to be so smoothed over that they cannot with any degree of patieace bear to hear of the carnal mind, or any mention of hell. " Thursday, I preached with freedom at Farmington, and on Tuesday morning I gave an exhortation on the subject of baptism, and baptized fourteen adults and chil- dren, and we had a sweet time, and then rode to Litch- field and preached to a serious company. I have no doubt that the Lord has begun a good work in this town. Brother W is a very acceptable preacher in this new circuit, and the Lord owns his labours. " I lodged at Mr. O 's, and had a long conversation with him and his brother, who related a very singular circumstance, which was as follows: — The brother (as they both informed me) was intended for a Presbyterian minister ; he had gone through his course of study, and as a probationer he had begun to preach, and I doubt not from what he informed me but that he was acquainted with inward religion. He fancied that if he was called to preach the Lord would endue him with a gift of mira- cles, and he concluded that he would preach no more until he obtained that gift. He began to fast, and after he had fasted eight or nine days, ministers, people, and physi- cians came around him, telling him that he would shortly be a dead man unless he took some nourishment — at another time they endeavoured to force him to eat, but to no purpose. He told" me that he did not eat a mouthful of victuals during forty days, and only drank water and a few times a little small beer. He likewise told me that nothing went through his body for forty days. His bro- REV. F. GARRETTSON, 217 ther, who I trust is a man who fears the Lord, professed to be an eye witness of the truth of this statement ; he was with him most of the time, and said that during the forty days he did as much work as he himself was able to do, who eat four or five times a day. When we would come in from work, said he, he would take nothing but a little water or a little small beer, and then go to work again. From the tenth to the nineteenth day of his fast, he seemed somewhat feeble, but after that he grew strong and looked nearly as fresh and well as he ever did, and continued to labour hard during that time : after the forty days were ended, he eat as hearty as usual, and found no injury from it, though the physicians warned him that in so doing he risked his life. Before this he was much exercised about the doctrines peculiar to Calvinism, and had renounced them. When I saw him 1 found him a believer in the same system of free salvation which the Methodists hold out, and he has begun boldly to preach again. " Saturday I rode as far as Cornwall, and preached at Squire Rogers's. I found that the Lord had begun a bless- ed work in this town when 1 preached here before, so I rode to Canaan, where I was comfortable. " Sunday 25th, I preached in Canaan to about five hundred people, from Matt, xxv, 14, 15, the parable of the talents. The Lord was with us : the work in this place is moving on. I have circulated a subscription for the building of a church here. Brother Bloodgood was with me ; as it was too warm in the house I preached in the open air. Harry preached after me with much ap- plause. I rode in the afternoon and preached in Salis- bury, in a part of the town in which I had never before preached, and I think I have never seen so tender a meet- ing in this town before, for a general weeping ran through the assembly, especially while Harry gave an exhortation The Lord is carrying on a blessed work in this town. 218 LIFE OF THE " Monday, July 26th, I preached on the whole arraoui of God, with freedom, and in the afternoon at brotheT Haywood's from, 1 If our gospel be hid it is hid to them that are lost.' One careless woman was brought under concern, so that shortly after she went home she returned and opened to me the state of her mind, and appeared to be in great distress indeed. " Tuesday, July 27th, between two huge mountains the morning appeared very beautiful, and I was very much delighted with the prospect when the natural sun had arisen and illuminated the earth with his bright beams, but one much brighter Sun doth arise to cheer the mind, even the Sun of righteousness. At four o'clock I preach- ed on another beautiful mountain, in a Presbyterian meet- ing house, to about three hundred people who gave heed to the things spoken. The people on this mountain are so far convinced that they appear to receive the gospel. When we first came to this mountain the people were much prejudiced, but are now more reconciled, and there is a prospect of a society. " Wednesday, July 2Sth, I had a sweet time at the fur- nace, and sent on Harry to supply my afternoon's appoint- ment. I rode twelve miles with two disciples, and had an opportunity to see a distressed woman, Mrs. L n, who has almost lost her reason. I endeavoured to con- verse with her, but I was too late. They are very much engaged to give her medical aid, but a revelation of the love and favour of God alone can relieve her. " July 29th, I rode to Hudson, where I found the people very curious to hear Harry. I therefore declined preaching that their curiosity might be satisfied. The different denominations heard him with much admiration, and the Quakers thought that as he was unlearned he must preach by immediate inspiration. " Friday 30th, I spent part of the day in planning a new diurch in this oity, and in the evening preached to several REV. F. GARRETTSON. 219 hundred people with considerable freedom from, 1 Him that honoureth me I will honour,' &c, and I think I never wit- nessed a more solemn time in this place. The people of this city drive away their convictions by the love of the world. I have frequently seen fine prospects here which were soon gone. " Saturday 31st, crossed the North river, rode twelve miles, and preached among the mountains. The Lord is deepening his work among these poor people. The soci- ety is young, but growing." In the month of October he attended the conference in the city of New- York. We may form some idea of the extent and usefulness of the labours of Mr Garrettson and those associated with him, from the fact that there had been an increase of two thousand five hundred and forty-seven church members during the three years of hard toil in this part of the country. When he commenced his labours here in 1788 there were only four circuits, namely, New- York, Long Island, New Rochelle, and Dutchess; but in 1791 there were twelve circuits, namely, New- York, Long Island, New Rochelle, Dutchess, Columbia, New Britain, Cam- bridge, Albany, Saratoga, Otsego, Newburg, and Wyo- ming. This one district at that time comprehended nearly the whole territory now included in the New- York con- ference, consisting of seven districts, numbering eighty circuits and stations, and one hundred and sixty-three effective preachers. By this estimate those who now come among us may see what their fathers in the gospel had to encounter, the immense labours they performed, and the consequent privations they must have endured, as well as the asto- nishing success which accompanied their exertions in the cause of their Master. 220 MFE OF THE CHAPTER XIV. End of the printed journal— Division of his district — Visits Alba *iy— Meets with Bishop Asbury — Attends Conference— His testi mony of Bishop Asbury'a excellences — Account of the Shakers — Tour into the new settlements — State of the country — Work of God revives — Providential escape from danger — Visits the eastern part of his district — Meets Bishop Asbury, and converses with him >n church government — Attends general Conference in Baltimore — Mr. O'Kelly's division— Its effects — Visits his friends in Mary- land — Returns to New-York — Passes through his district — His marriage. The printed journal of Mr. Ganettson, by which I have been so much assisted thus far, ends with the con- tents of the preceding chapter ; and his manuscripts from this period are not very voluminous, although he continued occasional notices of the exercises of his mind, as well as of his public labours. From these and from other docu- ments within reach, I shall endeavour to fill up the re- mainder of the years of his devoted life— devoted exclu- sively to the best of all causes, the cause of man's salvation. At the conference of 1791, the district over which Mr. Garrettson had presided with so much honour to himself and usefulness to others, was divided into two : the south- ern part, including Newburg, Wyoming, New- York, New Rochelle and Long Island circuits, was placed under the oversight of the Rev. Robert Cloud ; Dutchess, Columbia. New Britain, Cambridge, Albany, Saratoga, and Otsego, formed the district of Mr. Garrettson. On the 11th of June he arrived in the city of Albany, found the labours of the preacher had been much blessed, and that he had succeeded in erecting a house of worship, which Mr. Gar- rettson dedicated to the service of Almighty God ; after which, in company with the preacher, he went through the city from house to house, soliciting contributions to REV. F. GARRETTSON. 221 aid in paying for their newly-built house. They collected, however, in the whole, only forty pounds or one hundred dollars. From Albany he travelled west as far as Johns- town, where he contracted for a lot of ground and engaged the workmen to build a house of worship. In consequence of the division of his district, Mr. Gar- rettson was enabled to fill up more of the intermediate places, and to spend more time in regulating the societies and setting things in order. Having done all he could for the " little flock" in Johnstown, he returned to Albany, and from thence passed on to Hudson, and visited the western part of Connecticut, preaching in all the towns through which he passed where he could obtain a place to preach in until he came to Farmington, where he met Bishop Asbury. From the time Mr. Asbury had been consecrated to the office of a bishop, according to the rules of the Discipline, he had travelled at large through the country, meeting tho preachers in their several conferences at times and places most convenient for them and advantageous to the work in which they were engaged. It was customary when he came within the bounds of a presiding elder's district, for the elder to accompany him from place to place, that from a personal inspection of the work, he might be able to oversee the whole to the better advantage. And this personal and efficient superintendency devolved prin- cipally upon Bishop Asbury, as Dr. Coke, though denomi- nated a joint superintendent with him, was generally in Europe during the interval of the conferences. To Bishop Asbury, therefore, the preachers looked for direction in all important matters, and next to him to the presiding elders of the districts. At this time Mr. Asbury came into this district, and accompanied Mr. Garrettson through Litchfield and Cornwall to Canaau, where they held a quarterly meeting, and thence to Albany, where Mr. As- bury preached five times in the new meeting house. Here 20 222 LIFE OF THE ihe preachers assembled and " held," says Mr. Garrettsoii a little conference," and one of the brethren was set apart to the office of a deacon. From thence they " tra- velled through Coeyman's, Hudson, Rhinebeck, and Nine Partners, and on Saturday and Sunday held a quarterly meeting not far from Oblong, where a vast concourse of people assembled, so that the meeting house, though large, would not contain one third of the people ; they therefore withdrew to the woods, and many seemed to receive the word with joy." From thence they went on south to Peeks- kill and lodged at Governor Courtlandt's. In the " morn- ing," says Mr. Garrettson, " I was under the necessity of parting with Bishop Asbury. We had had a pleasant time together, and I felt a continual calm in my soul, and could not leave him without reluctance. I am satisfied that he possesses the qualifications of a primitive bishop." This testimony to the qualifications of Mr. Asbury as a bishop in the Methodist Episcopal Church is the more valuable as it comes from one who had been for a considerable time his intimate friend, had frequently heard him preach been in his private and public councils, and who knew how to estimate true worth of character. And it is no little recommendation of Mr. Garrettson that such a man as Bishop Asbury reposed the most unlimited confidence in his integrity and faithfulness in the cause of his divine Master. Mr. Garrettson continued his itinerary visits through his district, often cheered by crowded congregations hanging upon his lips for instruction, and sometimes depressed by the indifference with which the word was received. On Monday, Sept. 3, he entered the state of Massachusetts, and met Mr. Robert Green, one of the preachers who tra- velled on the Albany circuit, and found the commence- ment of a glorious work of religion in that part of the country. The faithful minister of Jesus Christ who has proclaim REV. F. GARRETTSON. 223 Q(\ an irreconcilable war against sin and Satan, will very much deceive himself if he thinks to pass on smoothly without opposition from his grand adversary. Not only are the wicked and the openly profane leagued against him, but also the merely formal professor, as well as all those whose peculiarities of belief are brought into contact with the pure truths of the gospel. Among other evils in our country, where an unrestrained liberty of thought and action in religious matters is guaranteed to its citizens ) numerous heresies, some of the most wild and extravagant nature, have sprung up and thriven as in a luxuriant soil. These, often more destructive in their consequences than an undisguised opposition to the gospel, are to be encoun- tered, their influence as far as possible counteracted, that those who are carried away by their fatal delusions may be reclaimed to the " good and right way." Among others by which the age has been distinguished, and in many instances disgraced, is that of Shakerism. Though quite local in its character and influence, it has been considered of sufficient importance to be noticed in the records of the day as a distinct denomination. This spurious offspring of an adulterated Christianity, has deluded and blinded the minds of a very cosniderable number of our citizens, and ought doubtless to be stamped with a seal of disap- probation by all sober-minded and orthodox Christians. These remarks have arisen from the following notice of this deluded sect by Mr. Garrettson, under date of Sep- tember 3 : " I met a sensible man who had been a Shaker, but has left them and joined us. Of this person I received the most full and satisfactory account of the people called Shakers that I have ever had. I had been at a loss to know how or from whence they sprang. He tells me they are the relics of Bell, who was formerly a Methodist preacher in England, but was excommunicated by Mr. Wesley for his enthusiastic notions. He held to our being as perfect as angels, or as Adam was in paradise ; and was 224 LIFE OF THE so wild as to prophesy that on such a day a part of Lon don should be destroyed, to the great harm of thousands in that city. Once he was a man of great faith ; but where is poor deluded Bell now ! His followers were dis- persed, and after a time a few of them came over and settled at Niskayuna, where they remained peaceably for some time, until the mother, as she was called, Ann Lee, professed to pass through an uncommon change; and a few entered upon their new work, which consisted mostly in dancing, shaking, turning round, and talking, as they call it, in the unknown tongues. This new system was for a time carried on with great rapidity, so that persons of respectability joined them, and among the rest several ministers. I have conversed with several sensible men who have left them, who told me that while among them they hated every thing they thought to be sinful, and verily thought they were doing right." The following extracts from his journal will show the progress of the gospel in some of the new settlements on the west side of the Hudson river. " Saturday, Sept. 24, I left Albany and attended a quarterly meeting at Captain Groosbeck's twenty miles to the north. I found great freedom to speak. Several ot the preachers spoke feelingly and freely. "Sunday 25th, our lovefeast began at nine o'clock. Several of our friends spoke their experience well. One of our pious sisters gave the following account : — ' I was convinced all was not well with me ; but knew not what I wanted, (this was previous to hearing the Methodists.) One day I took my Bible and went into the woods to read and seek the Lord. I sat down under a large tree, and was reading and weeping, and desirous to know what I should do to be saved : I at length listened and heard a voice saying unto me, Remove from that place. I knew not but it might be imagination, and read on till I heard it again a second and a third time. I at length removed REV. F. GARRETTSON. 225 from the place and sat down about twenty feet off. No sooner had I done this than a part of the tree fell on the place where I had been sitting. I looked up and saw the hand of God in my preservation, and was enabled to look to my blessed Redeemer, and he gave me to know that all my sins were blotted out, and I returned to the house happy in the Lord. After this I had the pleasure of cast- ing in my lot among the Methodists, and I feel thankful to the Lord, and am now happy in the love of God.' I preached after the lovefeast on St. John's account of the Laodiceans, for I feared they were in a lukewarm state. After meeting ended we settled a dispute between two brethren, and I trust some are brought to mourn on ac- count of their backsliding. " Monday 26th, I crossed the North river accompanied by brother C c, and preached at Newtown, and admi- nistered the sacrament. 1 had a sweet season, and consi- derable enlargement in the society by the instrumentality of brother Candle. I rode ten or twelve miles to Saratoga, where I was to preach at four o'clock, but could not begin till five : the congregation was so numerous that the house would not contain them ; so I preached under a tree with great freedom. I had several of the settled clergy to hear. On the whole we had a weeping time. I was much pleased with the good behaviour of the people. By can- dle light I administered the sacrament to nearly twenty of our young converts, and as many waited to see it as could crowd in, and we had a happy and an affecting time. I feel myself happy among the poor children of God. " Tuesday 27th, I was to preach at Fish creek : a man met us in the road. * Stop, sir, 5 said he, ' and clear up one thing. Is it right for you to part man and wife ? My wife joined your church last night. We are parted, we are parted !' The woman was. in a flood of tears, and he raving like a madman. We passed along, and I preached again to upwards of two hundred, and communed with a 20* 226 LIFE OF THE few of our young converts. The people in this place scon as hard as rocks. I lodged at the house of a kind friend, and had some conversation with a religiously disposed Presbyterian. " Wednesday 28th, we rode to Saratoga springs, where I preached. The larger part of the congregation behaved well, but some were rude. This was a mixed companj from different parts of the union. In the afternoon I preached at Cadersoy's creek, and was much discomposed by noisy children. I stand in need of patience. O God ' give every grace of thy Holy Spirit. " Thursday 29th. This morning my mind is comforta- ble in the Lord. I travelled about twenty miles through a country thinly inhabited, the road new and exceedingly bad, to Broadalbin, where I had an opportunity of preach- ing to a well-behaved congregation, part of whom had moved from Rhode Island. Among the rest I met with Mr. Snow, son of the Rev. Mr. Snow of Providence, at whose house I preached. He emulates the piety of his good old father. In this place we have a growing society Among them my spirit was much refreshed. "Friday 30th, I rode to Mayfield, a town settled since the revolution. When in this place four months since I was much encouraged ; but they appear to be greatly re- tarded in the race. O ! the world and the sublunary things thereof are a great hindrance to vital piety. M Saturday 31st, I rode to Johnstown. In time of preaching the children made much disturbance. After sermon two of our brethren exhorted. About four months ago I visited this town, agreed for a lot, and encouraged our few friends to build the Lord a house, which is now in order for worship. " Sunday, Nov. 1st. As it was quarter day, as many people came together as our new building would contain, made up of a variety of denominations : I preached from, ' Now the end of the commandment is charity, out of a pure heart, a good conscience, and faith unfeigned.' * REV. P. GARRETTSOX. In 1792 we find him travelling over the same ground, and extending his labours even further west. The prin- cipal part of the country, after going a short distance from the banks of the Hudson, at this time was but recently settled ; the people, though industrious, were generally poor, living in log houses, enjoying merely the necessaries of life. On this account the preachers who first visited them were subjected to privations and inconveniences to which those who have since " entered into their labours" are strangers. How often have the pioneers in the gospel field been found to preach, eat, and sleep in the same room, live on the coarsest fare, and at their quarterly meetings either assemble in a barn or in a grove ! In the warm season of the year, however, it is not unpleasant to worship Him who " hangeth the earth upon nothing and stretcheth the north over the empty space" under the foliage of a pleasant grove. On the last of June Mr. Garrettson held a quarterly meeting at Broadalbin, and on the second day of the meeting, July 1, he says that about four hundred people assembled, and they had a moving profitable time : — " There were," says he, " a large number at the com- munion, and many, I trust, will bless God in eternity for this day. We lodged at the house of brother Snow, son of the Rev. Mr. Snow of Providence, R. I., before men- tioned, and I am happy to add that I think the son emu- lates his pious father. I am much pleased with the peo- ple of this town, as they appear well disposed, and the Lord is carrying on a glorious work among them. It is not enough for me, O my God ! to bear a public testimony to the truth, and to labour heartily and cheerfully in thy vineyard : I must be holy or I cannot have a seat in thy kingdom." It was in this spirit of ardent devotion, with his mind constantly bent and all his powers of soul and body con- secrated to the advancement of the Redeemer's glory, that 228 LIFE OF THE Mr. Garrettson pursued his way through this newly-settled country, encouraging the hearts and strengthening the hands of his junior brethren in the ministry, as well as dis- pensing the word of life to all whom he could reach with the sound of his voice. After he returned to the city of Albany, a place of great spiritual dearth, though much of his labour had been bestowed upon it, he was cheered with the following intelligence from the preacher who had charge of the societies where he had preached the preced- ing Wednesday and Thursday near old Schoharie : " The day after you left us I began to visit from house to house. Many in deep distress followed me, and cried aloud for mercy, so that before we went to rest ten souls were set at liberty." Soon after another letter from the same person and place informed him that " the blessed work was going on, and that twenty souls had found peace with God." On recording this joyful news, he exclaims, " O Albany ! when will God arise in power and shake thy dry bones ! Gracious God ! thou canst work and none can hinder." On Monday he left Albany to attend some appointments on his district, when, "on crossing a creek," says he, " my horse suddenly plunged into a deep hole entirely over his head in water ; but though I was much wet, I was brought through unhurt; and after travelling upwards of twenty miles, I was abundantly compensated by those refreshing streams of which the world knows not, while preaching to a company of the poor gathered from their cottages. This to me is much sweeter employment than to dwell at ease in affluence, while the poor are perishing for lack of knowledge. O that all the ministers of God would consider this and carefully look after Christ's sheep in the wilderness." In this tour around his district he extended his labours still further into the new settlements, and derived great satisfaction from witnessing the blessed effects of those faithful preachers over whom he watched with paternal tenderness and care, and whose assurance REV. F. GARRETTSON. 229 of a divine call to this important work was rendered still more satisfactory in the awakening and conversion of souls. To satisfy himself more fully respecting their quali- fications and call to this work, he tells us that he " took particular pains to examine them, as well as to hear them preach as often as practicable ; and also to give them those cautions and directions which I considered suitable and necessary ; for which many of them manifest their thank- fulness." After traversing through several parts of this new country, and witnessing the blessed effects of their ministrations, he says, " God will do a great work in this country." How prophetic! Since that time the blessed work has spread through all this western country to the lakes, and into Upper and Lower Canada. Under date of Saturday 28th, he gives the following remarkable account: — "On looking back I see the hand of a good God in my preservation last Thursday. I came to Mr. weary and thirsty. I asked for something to drink, and my kind friend's wife went to fetch it ; after staying about fifteen minutes she returned with some small beer : as she advanced toward me I was as sensibly im- pressed as if some one had told me, That woman is not too good to put poison in the drink. As I was putting it to my lips the same impression was so strong, that imme- diately I refused, and put it d®wn on the table untouched. Shortly after dinner was brought on the table ; but I could eat very little. The next morning she poisoned her hus- band and two others with the meat which had been set before me. I was informed not long since that she had said she would put an end to all the d d Methodists. A skilful physician was at hand, or in all probability they would have lost their lives. She was immediately sent to the jail in Albany." He then came to Rhinebeck, where he enjoyed sweet consolation in communion with God in secret, and with his Christian friends. Thence he passed on through the 230 LIFE OF THE eastern part of York state into Connecticut and Massachu- setts to Pittsfield, where he had the pleasure of again meet ing Bishop Asbury, as he was returning from the confer- ence at Lynn, Mass. " I can truly say," observes Mr. Garrettson, " I was never more happy to see him." They then went in company to Albany, where the preachers in these parts, twenty in number, were assembling for con- ference, which was opened on Wednesday 15th, by Bishop Asbury, " with an excellent sermon." This conference, it seems, was attended with much of the presence of God, and the preachers went to their several stations with glad hearts and renewed courage, knowing their work was with God. From this conference he accompanied Bishop Asbury to Rhinebeck, where he had the happiness of hearing him preach a " very useful sermon." On the way Mr. Garrett- son says, " we had some close conversation on church government. On this subject there is not a perfect una- nimity of sentiment." What particular point of church government it was concerning which they discoursed, we are not told ; but it is presumed that it related to the general superintendency, as Mr. Garrettson was of the opinion, that instead of having the whole continent under one general superintendency, it would have been better if it had been divided among several, making each superin- tendent responsible for his own particular district to the general conference. To this opinion I believe he adhered to the last, though he calmly acquiesced in the decisions of a majority of his brethren in this as well as in all matters relating to the regulations of the discipline of the church. From Rhinebeck he passed on to New- York, and from thence through Philadelphia to Baltimore in order to at- tend the general conference which assembled October 31, 1792. It was at this conference that the subject of an appeal from the appointment of the bishop to the annual conference was brought forward by Mr. O'Kelly, and REV. F. GARRETTSON. 231 largely debated. That all may understand the nature of this subject, it is necessary to remark that according to the regulations of the discipline, the bishop attending an annual conference has the sole power of appointing all the preachers to their several stations. Mr. O'Kelly wished to put what he considered a salutary check upon this power, by providing that if a preacher felt himself aggrieved or oppressed in his appointment, he should have the pri- vilege of appealing to the conference, which should con- sider and finally determine the matter. After a long and animated discussion, the question was decided in the nega- tive, and Mr. O'Kelly withdrew from the Methodist Epis- copal Church. In reference to these things, Mr. Garrett- son observes that " Mr. O'KeJly's distress was so great oii account of the late decision, that he informed us by letter that he no longer considered himself one of us. This gave great grief to the whole conference. Two persons wen* appointed with me as a committee to treat with him. Many tears were shed, but we were not able to reconcile him to the decision of the conference. His wound was deep, and apparently incurable." The tenderness thus manifested toward an erring bro- ther, so characteristic of Mr. Garrettson, reminds one ot the apostolic direction, " If a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual restore such a one in the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." When an act of excision becomes necessary, from the stubbornness of an offending member, the character of the church sustains no injury, but acquires much credit, by performing this duty in the spirit of tenderness, evin- cing a love to the person she is constrained to disown. I believe this spirit was strikingly exemplified in the pre- sent instance toward Mr. O'Kelly, not only by Mr. Gar- rettson, who mourned over his fallen brother with the sympathy of a Christian, but also by the whole conference. This was the first schism of any considerable magrii- 232 LIFE OF THE tude which had been made in the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. O'Kelly was a preacher of some talent and influence ; he had been employed as a presiding elder, according to Bishop Asbury's account, " in the south dis- trict of Virginia for about ten succeeding years." Mr. Lee, in his history of the Methodists, affirms that O'Kelly was not sound in the doctrine of the Trinity, and thinks that a fear of being called to an account for his hetero- doxy in this particular, was the principal cause of hit withdrawing from the church. Whatever truth there may be in this, his proceedings raised very considerable dis- turbance in the societies, particularly in some parts of Virginia, as three of the travelling preachers withdrew with him ; and as they immediately commenced a warfare against the people they had left, several thousands of the people were induced to join their standard. They at first called themselves " republican Methodists," uttered many harsh and uncharitable censures against the Methodist Episcopal Church, particularly against Bishop Asbury, and endeavoured to inflame the passions of the people so is to induce them to revolt against their former pastors. Their success for a while stimulated them to increased exertions ; but they soon began to decline, until finally their influence was annihilated, and at the present time they are not known as a distinct denomination. Pure religion, however, in the region of country where they prevailed most, suffered a sad declension, and perhaps in some instances, it has scarcely recovered its wonted vigour and activity to this day ; so deleterious are the effects of " dissensions among brethren." It is not doubted but that a man may withdraw himseli from the Methodist Church from conscientious motives ; but it is a remarkable fact in the history of this church that nearly all those who have withdrawn have distinguish- ed themselves more by the virulence of their invectives against their old friends, than by their zeal to "convert REV, T. GARRETTSOXo 233 sinners from the error of their ways." This was particu- larly the case with Mr. O'Kelly and his party, as well as others who have taken similar steps. The consequence has been a diminution of that loving zeal by which the sin- cere and devout Christian is characterized, and an increase of party animosity, of strife, and many evil works, which have ultimately led to the overthrow and entire prostration of the party. Let but the Methodist Episcopal Church persevere in*its career of "doing good of every possible sort to the souls and bodies of men," manifesting a spirit of forbearance and brotherly affection among its members, and of Christian moderation towards all men, and "no weapon that is formed against her shall prosper." At the close of this conference Mr. Garrettson has the following reflections : — " O what a wonder to see so large a body of preachers gathered from all parts of the conti- nent, and, like little children sitting at each other's feet, united as the heart of one man, and all engaged in one common cause, namely, to demolish the kingdom of Satan and to build up that of the Redeemer ! I retired to my room, not indeed alone, for I trust my blessed Saviour was with me. O my God, let me rather die than cease to love thee." From this conference Mr. Garrettson returned to Cokes- bury college, where he preached, and then paid a visit to his relations on the eastern shore of Maryland, and was much comforted in their society. After preaching a num- ber of times with great satisfaction to those with whom he formerly " took sweet counsel" in this part of the country, he pursued his journey to New- York, and immediately entered upon the labour of his district with his usual zeal and success, every where hailed as a messenger of God. He continued in this work, extending his excursions still farther and farther into the western settlements, until June 30, 1793, when he was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Livingston, daughter of Judge Livingston, of Clermont, manor of Livingston, a woman every way 21 234 LIFE OF THE qualified to be to him " a help meet indeed," and whose pious efforts to promote the Redeemer's kingdom were ever after, during his life, affectionately united with those of her devoted husband. They were married by the Rev, Peter Moriarty in the first Methodist church in Rhine- beck, and afterwards partook of the blessed Supper of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. On this occasion he makes the following reflections : 11 1 am now happy in the society of my destr friend, and find the two families, Sands's and Schuyler's, as kind and as attentive as ever. I hope always to live as God would have me both for time and eternity. I am happy, and hope to be more and more so. Lord, we are thine. Thou hast united our spirits to thyself and to each other. Do with us as seemeth thee good, only let us be wholly thine : let us live to thy glory, and grant that our union may be for the furtherance of each other in the way to the king- dom of heaven." CHAPTER XV. Mr. Garrettson stationed in Philadelphia— On the New-York district— Settles his family in Rhinebeck— Prosecutes his labours- Erects a house — Goodness of God displayed towards him — Situation of his mansion— His cares multiply — Dedicates his new house to the Lord — Several stations he rilled — In 1809 visits his old friends at the south — His account of this tour — Remarkable preservation — Visits Baltimore, Washington city, and various places on the Peninsula of Md. — Attends camp meetings, &c. From the time of Mr. Garrettson's marriage in 1793, until 1S09, I find no regular account of his travels and labours. It appears, however, from the minutes of the conference, that he was this year stationed as elder in the city of Philadelphia, and likewise had charge of Bristol, Chester, and Wilmington circuits. This was a season of peculiar affliction to the citizens of Philadelphia. The yellow fever raged ; and as Mr. Garrettson was going into ♦he city, thousands were coming out, to escape this fell REV. F. GARRETTSON. 235 destroyer of human life. His labours here were greatly blessed. In 1794 he was stationed in what has since been called the New- York district, which included Pitts- field, Cambridge, Dutchess, Columbia, Cfoton, New Ro- chelle, Long Island, New- York, and Brooklyn circuits. With a view to his temporal accommodation, he purchased a farm in Rhinebeck, and settled his small family. This, however, did not interrupt his ministerial labours, nor circumscribe the sphere of his usefulness. In this place his family resided five years, during which time Mr. Gar- rettson continued his exertions in the sacred cause of his divine Master with his usual zeal and devotedness, chiefly in that part of the country. In 1799 we find him stationed as a presiding elder within the bounds of the Philadelphia conference, having Salem, Burlington, Bethel, Trenton, Freehold, Elizabethtown, Flanders, and Newburgh cir- cuits for his district. In the year 1800 he was returned to the New- York district. Having made an exchange of the place he had occupied for another on the eastern bank of the Hudson, in 1799 he commenced building a dwelling house. The following incident is related on the best authority : The day on which the house was raised, while Mr. Garrettson stood admiring with what facility the frame went up, the power and goodness of God were so gloriously manifested, that he was constrained to retire to the lime house to give vent to his tears. After composing himself he returned. While another part of the frame was going up, the Lord so smiled from heaven upon him, that he retired to give an expression of his joys, of glory and thanks to his Re- deemer. On returning home, he related these things with evident satisfaction to Mrs. Garrettson, and they rejoiced together " for the consolation." The next day they were visited by their much beloved friend, Bishop Asbury. In this mansion the family of Mr. Garrettson, consisting of his wife, an only daughter, and a few pious domestics, 236 LIFE OF THE resided until his death, and here the widow and daughter still reside. Here was every thing to make life comfortable The house stands on a high bank on the eastern side ot the noble Hudson, whose waters are perpetually enli- vened by numerous sloops transporting the produce of the country to New- York and carrying up in exchange the necessaries and luxuries of life, as well as by steam boats loaded with passengers. A commanding view down the river for several miles is afforded to the eye of the inmates of the house and their numerous visiters. Trees of various sorts, apple, peach, and a variety of other fruit- bearing trees, shrubbery, &c, surround the dwelling, and combine together to render it a most delightful residence. But what tended to make it a much more desirable retreat to the pious of all denominations, was the Christian urba- nity, the pious example, and the amiable spirit manifested at all times by the inmates of a mansion which had been dedicated to God from its foundation. Having become the head of a family, and very soon made responsible for the use and management of a very considerable estate, Mr. Garrettson began to feel his care? multiply upon him, and was often distressed at the thought of being called by these means, in any measure from his more immediate vocation ; and sometimes he would with tears in his eyes say, that God had designed a brighter crown for him. " One night," says Mrs. Garrettson, " I heard him conversing in a low voice, with tears and groans. Soon after he turned to me and said, that he had been pleading with the Lord not to take his crown from him on account of his unfaithfulness; and that the Lord had assured him, that No man should take his crown ; and that what he could do in his present situation should be accepted. At which he rejoiced, and was greatly comforted." The following is the account given by Mrs. Garrettson of the manner in which they took possession of their new house. Were all newly married persons thus to enter on REV. F. GARRETTSON*. 237 life, thus to dedicate themselves and their house to God, how many blessings now unhappily lost would be secured ! " Our house being nearly finished, in October, 1799, we moved into it, and the first night in family prayer, while my blessed husband was dedicating it to the Lord, the place was filled with his presence, who in days of old filled the temple with his glory. Every heart rejoiced, and felt that God was with us of a truth. Such was our introduction into our new habitation ; — and had we not reason to say with Joshua, As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." The pious order, great simplicity, and regularity ever after observed in this house, evince how sincerely it was thu3 dedicated to God's holy honour and service. Mr. Garrettson continued to fill the office of presiding elder on the New- York district, until the conference of 1804, when we find him stationed in Rhinebeck. In 1805 and 1806 he was stationed in the city of New- York. In 1S07 Mr. Garrettson received the appointment of a missionary within the bounds of the New- York confer- ence, having Seth Crowell, a young preacher of zeal and enterprise, and Robert Dillon, a man at that time equally zealous, as helpers in the mission. In 1808 he was again stationed at Rhinebeck ; and in 1809 and 1810 a missionary. These appointments may be considered as an accommodation to Mr. Garrettson, that he might feel himself at liberty, to preach at large, visit the churches in different places, and confirm the souls of the disciples. In the year 1809 he paid a visit to his old friends on the eastern shore of Maryland, a place where in former days he had been greatly owned of the Lord. Under date of June 12, 1809, he relates the following occurrence : — " Last Saturday about two o'clock, I went to the ferry to cross at Powles Hook, and drove near where the boat lay ; a-crowd of people being around. The horse began, to back ; 21* 238 LIFE OF THE and convinced I could not recover him, I leaped imme- diately out of the chair, and within the twentieth part of a minute after, horse, chair, and baggage, were all in the water. The horse was active, and swam with the carriage for life. Many people were engaged with boats, and got off the harness with only cutting the girt ; so that the har- ness was not injured ; the horse was extricated unhurt, and shortly after the chair was taken up, and every indi- vidual thing, without the smallest damage, except getting wet, and the small end of the shaft broken. I crossed on to Newark, and got there by the middle of the after- noon, and found none of my baggage seriously injured;, excepting my precious little Bible. It was a heavy jar jumping out of the chair, but I am nearly as well as ever. The affair was most remarkable ; first — one hour before it happened I said to a friend, I will put this pocket book into my packet, lest something should happen, in which were notes and valuable papers. Second — my escaping the tenth or twentieth part of a minute before the chair and horse went over. Third — the horse, chair, baggage, and harness unhurt, except the shaft. Fourth — my mind was kept as calm and collected as at this moment. All these things considered, we may see the superintending hand of God, and be led to adore his holy name. No doubt it was permitted for good, and I believe I shall profit by it." From thence Mr. Garrettson passed on to Belville, from that to Newark and Trenton, in which places he preached, and thence to Philadelphia. Here he preached with much liberty and satisfaction, and was greatly refreshed in the society of his old friends. After spending some time in this place, preaching and visiting, he passed on to Wil- mington and to Elkton, where he had the happiness to find his niece, Mrs. Taylor, in the fear and love of God. Under date of June 22, he makes the following reflec- tions : — REV. F. GARRETTSON. 239 " In the afternoon I met a large society, after which I inquired if any were alive who were members thirty years ago, when I rode that circuit. They told me not one. ' O ! my friends,' said I, ' probably all of you will be in eternity before the end of thirty years more. You see the necessity of training up your children for the church, in order to keep a succession of faithful members, as our children and children's children must perpetuate the memory of Christ on earth ; and so from generation to generation be transplanted from the militant to the church triumphant, that the upper region may be peopled with blessed millions to adore the Saviour eternally.' " The following account of this tour was communicated to Mrs. Garrettson in a series of letters which he wrote during his absence. It will doubtless be read with interest by those especially of his surviving friends in that part of the country, as well as by all others who delight in seeing^ " the good hand of God" on his servants. " Friday 23. I leave my horse to rest, and Mr. Pres- bury accompanies me to Baltimore. My sister Elizabeth died about thirty years ago, and left an only child. I saw her about a twelvemonth ago, but she is now gone. " Saturday I spent mostly in retirement, except to visit some friends. ? Sunday, 25. This morning I preached at Old Town, in the afternoon at Light-street, and in the evening was to be at the Point; but as the weather was so excessively warm, I thought I could not go in justice to myself. The congregations here do not increase much : indeed they arc rather smaller. The extravagance of some of our people has had a greater tendency to fill other churches than their own. Mr. D d's congregation they say increases very much ; it seems a half way house. I am willing God should work when, where, and by whom he pleases. I have met brother Jesse, and he sent on my appointment? to Washington and Georgetown. 240 LIFE OP THE " Monday 26. I took the stage, and in the evening arrived at Georgetown; had a large congregation. Our friends are much engaged. Brother Roszel is the sta- tioned minister. The weather remains very warm. 'Tis well I got a loose thin garment before I left New-York. I lodge at Mr. Elison's, a very worthy family. Here I have a large cool room. They are some of my old Eastern Shore friends. " Tuesday 27. To-day Mrs. Foxal sent her carriage for me, and kindly gave me the use of it while I stay. In the afternoon I went to town, and stopped at Captain Lewis's, where I found Jesse Lee, the chaplain, nursing his leg. On his way from Baltimore the day before, his horse fell, broke the shaft of his gig, threw him out, and one of the screws bruised and cut his leg very much. I am fearful it will go hard with him if the hot weather continues. I preached in the evening to many people with a degree of freedom. " Wednesday 28. This morning brother Smith, the city preacher, went with me to the navy yard, and I thought well of the improvements. Dined at Captain Lewis's. He is not a member of society, but his daughters are I was well pleased with the family. In the afternoon brother Elison came for me ; I intended to go and hear the debates in congress, but they had adjourned for dinner sooner than usual. This evening I preached in Georgetown again ; here we have a respectable society ; and had I been an apostle they could not have treated me much better. " Thursday 29. I went to breakfast with an old East em Shore friend, brother Gruntree. He is an old Method- ist preacher. Here brother Parrot and his lady, my earliest friends, came to see me, and took me to Mrs. Foxal's. " Friday 30. I left my hospitable friends, and came or in the stage, laden with members of congress and others* *o Baltimore.- REV. F. GARRETTSON. 24X " Saturday 31 . Mr. Hollingsworth gave me a kind invi- tation to stay with him ; so that I am now most comfortably retired in a large airy room. This afternoon I had an interview with RicHard Garrettson, my nephew. He gave me a particular account of his father's landed estate, which has been for years involved in law. Their title was thought by the first lawyers to be good, and there was no proba- bility of their losing the suit. He tells me the first person that entered a claim died very suddenly before the trial came on, and likewise the second ; and lately a third person renewed the suit, and died suddenly, and left his pretended right to no one. The suit is fallen. " July 2. My to-day's appointment was announced last week in the public paper. I had much freedom to preach in the new church this morning. Mr. Colvil, with his five motherless children in deep mourning, came around me in tears ; it was an affecting sight. In the afternoon I preached in good old Mr. Otterbine's church. I am not in Rhinebeck now, but where thousands think it a privilege to hear an old Methodist preacher. Mrs. Gough drank tea with us at Mr. Hollingaworth's, and talks of taking me to my appoint- ment at Mr. Presbury's where I left my horse. It was published in all the churches to-day for my last sermon in the new chapel. On Tuesday evening I heard brother Shin preach. He is a good preacher, and is stationed • here, and appears deeply devoted to God. " July 4. This is the day of great parade in the city Some of the Methodists were warmly engaged in it. From what I understand it was conducted with as much decency as the nature of the thing would admit. The language of my heart was, Turn away thine eyes from beholding vanity. In the evening I preached in the new church to a large congregation, and we had a time of power. I have known the society here in a more flourishing state. I fear politics has done hurt to the cause of religion. " Wednesday 5. This morning I left my kind friends. 242 LIFE OF THE accompanied by brother Hagerty, in his gig, to Presbury't church, where I left my horse, and had an agreeable time and freedom to preach. This is a blessed family ; his mother was my father's niece, and I knew her thirty years ago deep in piety ; but she has long since gone to glory. Her son is now treading in her steps. " Thursday 6. Accompanied by my cousin Presbury and other relatives, we repaired to what is called the Camp Meeting Chapel. It is beautifully situated in a forest, at a distance from any house. As I rode up, my mind was solemnly impressed when I saw such a number of horses and carriages fastened to the trees, and the people waiting to hear the word. I had a sweet time in speaking from 1 Cor. vii, 21. While the gracious Lord was visiting the people with his heavenly grace, we had a little shower to refresh the vegetable creation. It seems this chapel is one of Mr. Gough's last acts of kindness to the poor. I went home with Mrs. Gough. There are some handsome improvements about this venerable man- sion, and the garden excels any thing I have seen. At present the parlour family is very large, there being much company. While they enjoyed themselves in the hall, Mrs. Gough and myself sat in the parlour, talking over old times. At nine o'clock the bell rung, and about fifty of the family assembled for prayer in the chapel. All the gentlemen and ladies were present morning and evening. The riches of the world are good, if made a good use of. Who can tell how these pretty things will be employed a few years hence ?" (Mrs. Carrol and her mother were both out of health; and since both are dead.) " Friday 7. My appointment to-day is in Harford, af Belle Air court house. I came to the place a little after 3 o'clock, and found there had been a misunderstanding. A large gathering had been there at 11, and were gone. We went to Mrs.. Montgomery's, and had a little gather- ing at five. Dined to-day at my eldest brother's widow's REV. F. GARRETTSON, 243 Brother Galespy, the circuit preacher, met me there, and he and my nephew came with me to my niece Mrs. Nor- ris's, and spent the night. She and her daughters are very friendly and desire to enjoy religion. " Saturday 8. This day the preacher and my nephew, F. Garrettson, left me. Here I have one sister living ; she is old, and her memory is so totally gone, that she does not know her own children ; but gives no trouble whatever ; and sits and knits without speaking a word, unless spoken to. A few nights ago she called her daugh- ter, and told her she should die soon, and requested her to bury her by her dear husband. I think I never saw a greater picture of innocence. This afternoon I go to Abington. " Sunday 9. This morning a very large congregation assembled from almost all quarters. My mind was sweetly drawn out. The church was much crowded, and many of my relatives were present. Preached from Psalm xlviii, 12, 13. I told them I had come several hundred miles to invite them to come to Jesus, and to inform them that, after following the Lord between thirty and forty years, I found religion better and better. I preached about an hour and «. half, and scarcely knew when to give over. There was no loud noise, but the whole assembly were melted into tenderness, while I entreated them to meet me in heaven, for thither I was bound. In the afternoon I rode seven miles, to what is called Bush chapel ; but it would not contain the people ; so I preached in a grove with freedom. Glory to God, I have lived to convince friends and foes that I am sincere at least. " Many descendants of my ancestors were present. Some of you have wondered where I have been, and what I have been about. Excuse me if I make a small digres- • sion to inform you. When the sermon was ended, many gave the hand ; among the rest was good old brother Watters, 80 years of age, and brother Herbert, 90, who 244 LI I E OF THE had made an effort to come out. Indeed they looked like ripe shocks, fit to be gathered home. Mr. Allen, minister of Specucia church, who was a hearer, said he wanted some conversation. I requested him to fall in with me at some other place, where we could have more time toge- ther. He said he would. I went home with my cousin R. Garrettson, and found my mind sweetly composed after the labours of the day. There are very few families in this country, at least in the interior part of it, to whom I might not have access. Indeed if I were an angel I could not be treated with a greater degree of kindness. I rejoice to find Dr. Hall, who is stationed in this circuit, very much followed. It is in his power to do much good through the blessing of God. " Monday 10. I preached in a church in Bush River Neck, neaT the Chesapeake Bay, and not a mile from the place in which I was born, and within half a mile of where I believe the first church in Maryland was built. From what I can learn, it was built by an ancestor of mine more than two hundred years ago. It was the height of harvest, or there would have been more hearers than the church could contain ; however, it was pretty well filled. I had some freedom to preach from James i, 24. A Colonel Mathews was present, whom I have not seen since we were boys. I requested him to go with me to Mr. Chancy's, where I was to lodge. I wanted to talk with him about new things and old ; he gave me his company some hours. He is not acquainted with Jesus, but seems to have a respect for religion. "Tuesday 11. This day I spent in visiting my rela- tions in the Neck. None of them oppose religion, and they generally think well of Methodism. They are, I believ e, moral and industrious, and have a fulness of this world's goods. I told them freely my errand among them, and that they wanted but one thing to make them a happy ■neople. REV. F. GARRETTSON. 245 u I appointed to preach at Miss Griffiths. One of the young ladies went to give an invitation to our relatives there ; they said they should be glad to see me, but they had not time to attend the meeting. I sent a message to them, begging if they would not meet me on earth, they would strive to meet me in heaven. In this place I had but a small congregation. Here parson Allen met me again, and stayed all night. When alone, I inquired with regard to his knowledge of divine things experimentally, and the manner of his preaching. I told him he was appointed to serve a people who were near to me by natural ties, as the greater part of his congregation were my family con- nexions. I begged , of him to declare the counsel of God faithfully, to attend to regular church discipline, to visit from house to house, to have meetings in differ- ent parts of the congregation, and to exercise extempo- raneously, both in prayer and exhortation, arid show the people that there is something wanting besides profession and morality. He said he would do the best he could, that he wished my time was not so short, and would be glad I would stay some days at his house. " Thursday 13. This morning I parted with Mr. Allen, and yesterday I parted with brother Galespy, (who had faithfully attended me to every place,) and my affectionate Harford friends, and was accompanied by some relatives to the ferry. I crossed, and went on to the head of North-East *********. I have just received a letter from brother Cooper ; he says he must leave the Peninsula soon, and I must by all means come on and help him. I shall, God willing, be at Smyrna, Del., the 27th of this month. " July 14. This morning I left North East, came to Elkton, and preached at five o'clock to a small con- gregation. My niece and her husband were very kind to me, and my mind was easy and free. I am not of that service to people as I wish to be. This always was, and I fear always will be, a poor place for religion. 22 246 LIFE OF THE " Saturday, 15. I rode to Mr. Canaan's, where I found several of my old friends and acquaintances still in the profession, and I trust happy in the enjoyment, of religion. We had a comfortable time together; the conversation turned mostly on the subject of falling, jumping, shouting, and clapping. I made free to speak my sentiments. Mr. Canaan was with me ; but Mrs. Canaan had her fears, and asked if I had ever been at a camp meeting. " Sunday 16. A large congregation assembled in Bethel chapel. While we were singing the first hymn, a woman 3houted and jumped amazingly. Before I gave out my text to prepare the assembly for an attentive hearing, I told them I had come a great way to communicate gospel truths to them, and I requested a patient hearing. I was led to give a display of the wisdom and goodness of God„ and to open to view our duty in resigning up our all to him, to the evidencing the power of religion experi- mentally, and likewise to display the external marks of inward religion. I told them a ministry of this kind was necessary to keep up a pure flame ; without it they could not expect to prosper, and that there would be an evapo- ration that would leave them a mere sound, without the vital flame. The congregation was still and attentive till I ended the sermon, and then one jumped and shouted. I thought it a great favour that there was stillness and attention till I ended my sermon. Mr. Basset dined with us, and in the afternoon I rode home with him, and spent an agreeable evening ; but I find my friends are growing old like myself. Mrs, B. is a pious woman, and he is full of zeal and love. He would have gone with me, but his many concerns prevented. He told me that wherever his influence extended he did not suffer a drop of distilled liquor to be used. His house and table are very plain ; and he says he feels it to be his duty to do every thing in his power for the cause of God. " Tuesday 18. I rode after dinner 22 miles to Smyrna REV. P. GARRETTSON. 247 preached with freedom, and lodged at Dr. Ridgeley's. His wife was daughter to parson Harris, and was among some of my first spiritual children about Chestertown, thirty years ago. Here I met an old friend, one of Judge White's daughters, who has stood fast in the Lord more than thirty years. In the vicinity they are making great preparation for a camp meeting, to begin next week. I went to the spot, where I suppose fifty men were employed in seating the ground. They thought it would take fifteen thousand feet of plank, and there seemed to be great anticipations of glorious times. "Wednesday 19. I rode to Queen Ann's. When I rode up to my old friend's, brother Segar's, I told him to take a full view of me, and try to recognise some features ; but he could not. I made myself known, and we had a season of much happiness. " Thursday 20. This dear friend intends travelling with me till I return from Smyrna. We went on, and dined at Thomas Wright's, and after dinner lodged at Mr. Fediman's. He did know me, and that was all, for he had to consider a long time. Several friends came over this afternoon, and we had some religious conversation, and some politics. Upon the whole it was an agreeable time. Brother Segar is a pillar in the temple. 14 Friday 21. We came to Centreville, and in the even- ing the church was nearly filled. I preached, and then went on to Mr. Kanard's to lodge. This is a respectable and kind family. " Saturday 22. I spent the day retired, and had an opportunity to read and write. " Sunday 23. I had hearers from five to twenty miles, and should have had a great congregation had there been general notice. However, the church was filled morning and afternoon. There is a large, respectable congrega- tion in and about this place. I can say, glory to God, *his was a high day. I had the privilege to see many of 248 LIFE OF THE my old friends and their children. Some of the blacks were in raptures. My intention was to go down the Peninsula, for about three or four weeks, on the Chesa- peake side, and up on the other side, and I had my appoint- ments about fifteen or twenty miles apart, by which means I might have an opportunity of speaking to thousands and tens of thousands, perhaps for the last time, and seeing many of my old friends ; but I found the country rilled with notices for camp meetings. I was pressed by Mr. Basset and others by all means to attend them. I am now going on my way to Smyrna, where the first begins, " Monday 24. I leave my kind Centreville friends, and am to preach in the English church, which is almost an unheard of favour in this country ; but it was the desire of the vestry. In this neighbourhood I was beaten by Mr, Brown years ago, and now a near relation of his is the principal vestryman. My appointment was at four o'clock, and though a wet afternoon, the church was crowded above and below with Methodist and church folks, white and black, and we had a moving time. This meeting was at Church Hill. I do indeed love the Lord Jesus. " Tuesday 25. At four o'clock, in the Methodist church near Saddler's cross roads, I had uncommon freedom to preach. A large church was filled above and below. Indeed it looked a little like quarterly meeting. I preached on Peter's denying Christ. We had a very powerful time ; but the enemy took advantage of a weak minded black man in the front gallery, who cried aloud, stripped, and struck his fists together, and declared he would not see his blessed Master treated in that sort; — that he would fight for him till he died on the spot. I desired them to take him out, and not let him return till the meeting closed ; which they did in less than two minutes. My soul is happy ; Lord, keep me humble. The children and grand- children of old friends show me the same respect that their parents would if alive. REV. F. GARRETTSOX, 249 u Wednesday 26. I had great freedom to preach to-day. I left you at Smyrna ; I again resume my detail : — There were about thirty preachers present, local and travelling, and seats provided for about three thousand. There were two hundred and sixty tents. I lodged every night on the ground, in Dr. Ridgeley's tent. We had fourteen sermons in the course of the meeting, and very powerful speaking. I preached with great freedom on Friday, from Isaiah's vision, vi, 8 ; and on Sunday, from ' 1 am not ashamed of the gospel/ &c, Rom. i, 16. M'Claskey, Chalmers, and M'Combs, delivered some able discourses. The meeting increased every day till Sunday, when there were about five thousand people. I did not see one dis- orderly person on the ground from first to last ; scarcely a single thing to drink except water, and sometimes a little milk with it, or molasses and vinegar. They had tables, beds, curtains, carpets, and provisions, and servants, in great order. We had a solemn, profitable season, but no particular outpouring of the Spirit, and very few converted, awakened, or sanctified. The people in this country must be either Methodists or nothing, for there is scarcely a minister of any other name. At this meeting I saw a great many of my old friends with pleasure, and I trust with profit. Good Mr. Basset seems taken up with divine things. At parting they had a manoeuvre, which some of us old men did not feel free to join in, marching round the camp, blowing five or six trumpets, and singing by turns. M Tuesday, Aug. 2. At eight o'clock the meeting closed O ! what a blessed day it will be when friends meet to part no more for ever ! Brother Chalmers, a respectable old preacher from Baltimore, travels with me. My appoint- ment at night was in Dover church, and it was well filled. My text was, * Grow in grace.' Brother Chalmers exhort- ed, and we had a good time. Lodged at Mr. Basset's. 1 Wednesday3. My appointment was at Barret's chapel, 22* 250 LIFE OF THE at three o'clock. About three hundred people were assembled, many more than I expected, as they had but short notice. I spoke from, 1 But one thing is needful.' Brother Chalmers exhorted, and the Lord was with us. I am still among my children and old friends. A woman belonging to the community of Quakers was present in a state of desperation ; whom her friends sent in hope of relief. I conversed and prayed with her, but left her in the same state, despairing of the mercy of God. Here I met with many kind friends I had not seen for four or five and twenty years. Many of my old associates are gone to glory, but their children and grandchildren have taken their seats in the church. We stayed at Judge Barret's. His brother was a dear friend of mine, and a spiritual child, but long since gone to rest. I hope the children will tread in the steps of their pious parents. " Thursday 4. We went on to Milford, and got on the camp ground by ten o'clock. Seats were prepared for about two thousand. Meeting opened at three — a small congregation, and a small sermon. Friday the congrega- tion increased. I preached from Peter's denial of Christ. Saturday the congregation increased. Brother Chalmers preached a good sermon : — not a great many, and mostly young. Sunday about three thousand. I preached from • Walk about Zion,' &c, Psalm xlviii, 12, 13. Had much freedom ; — about one hundred and fifty tents. Here I met many dear old friends from fifty and sixty miles round, and we were happy together. We had three sermons each day, but I cannot say we had any extraordinary work either in conviction or conversion. Those who do not profess reli- gion behaved well. No intoxicated person, nor even the smell of liquor, on the ground. A few noisy, jumping, dancing Methodists, did, I fear, more hurt than good. An empty sound is very disagreeable to me ; a shout, when the power of God is in it, is sweet to me. I have nevef been at a meeting where there were moje fruitless human REV. F> GAItRETTSON, 251 exertions, though I did what I could to prevent them. I begged them to wait for the Master, and let him take the lead. Extravagance was carried to the greatest height among the blacks, for many of them continued it for hours together. Such things, when the power of God is not in the camp, tend to dissipate the mind. The most I can say of this meeting is, there was great attention paid to the word preached. During my stay I got accommodations at my friend Shockley's — a rich friend, who was within call of the camp ground, where my friend Chalmers and I retired for lodging. It is a blessing to have able, wise, and prudent rulers in the church ; but to my grief, I say we have some whose zeal and imprudence go far beyond their knowledge ; but, thanks be to God, there are men of piety and knowledge to check their precipitancy, or we might soon bid farewell to good old Methodism. Glory- to God, I think it will stand, though encumbered with many disagreeables. There are thousands in this country deeply pious. The Methodists have the whole business to themselves in this country. There is scarcely a minis- ter of any other denomination. " Monday 7. I had an appointment at Dover to-day at three o'clock. We started early this morning, rode twenty- two miles, and got in by twelve o'clock. I feel a little weary. The church was nearly filled. I discussed two heads of doctrine — the lowest and the highest degree of Christian experience. Brother Chalmers made the appli- cation, and we had a precious season. This town looks old : — in fact, there are very small improvements made in any part of this country, except in matters of religion. We stayed at Mr. White's, brother to Dr. White, an old friend We had a number of my good friends to tea. " Tuesday 8. To-day I preached at Blackstone's chapel. Dined at Ringold's. At three we had a large congregation. After speaking more than an hour on the various parts oC grayer with .great freedom, while the power of God waf 2 LIFE OF THE graciously displayed, and I was much spent, I asked bro iher Chalmers to speak on the duty and benefit of prayer, which I had promised to do if strength permitted. He did so in a very pertinent manner, for he is an excellent preacher. He began travelling when he was sixteen, about twenty years ago, but has been located several years. Brother Whitby, a worthy man, where we now lodge, (who was once a travelling, but is now a local preacher,) said, For your encouragement I can tell you that under the sermon you preached in our chapel, as you went down,, a poor sinner was awakened, who has since found pardon, and is now happy in God. " Wednesday 9. My appointment is at Chestertown in the evening. My good friend Chalmers leaves me this morning. As Basset's camp meeting begins to-day, and he expects to meet his wife from Baltimore, I have no other chance to see my old friend, Dr. Anderson, who is very ill from a fall from his carriage. I think it a small thing to go twenty-five miles out of mynvay to see so wor- thy a member of the church, and the fruit of my poor little labours more than thirty years ago. I rode twenty-five miles, and dined at Chestertown, at brother Harris's. In the evening I had the church full of serious hearers, and to my agreeable surprise the Doctor was among my audience. I had a most sweet season among my friends. My sermon was from Psalm xlviii, 12, 13. 1,1 spoke ol the church ministry, beauty, and order; 2, her strength and fortitude ; 3, her privileges ; 4, her testimony. M Thursday 10. Our worthy brother Burniston accom- panied me to the camp ground. " Friday 11. A very rainy day. I preached in a large tent, on the necessity of holiness. Mr. Harris fell under the word, cried for mercy, and found peace. He is not a member of our church. Brother Chalmers got under such a deep travail of soul for holiness, that he fell under the power of God, and lay for hours : and when he came REV. F* GARRETTS ON . 253 to, rejoiced in the perfect love of God. I was requested by some of my old friends to call this meeting; among others was Mrs. BrurT and her sister Ward. These holy women are full of the perfect love of God. This meeting held several hours. I likewise called a meeting in the preachers' tent at the same time ; — the tents rung with the praises of God. The poor blacks seemed almost ready to fly. There is, nevertheless, a probability we shall have a great meeting. Many of our good friends have come from Baltimore. I must leave you. This minute I have been conversing with Mrs. Bruff ; — she tells me, at the above-mentioned meeting three besides Mr. Chalmers were brought out, and several led to feel the necessity of holiness. My dear love, there is a struggle in the camp I will tell you more when we meet. God bless you and yours. I am in the cause of God ; nothing else would reconcile me to so long an absence from you. I remem- ber you at the throne of grace ; — there also remember me ; — -I* can only stand by grace. While I am writing, prayer, praise, and shouting are all around me," CHAPTER XVI. Appointed to the New- York district— Some account of his duties — His sermon on the union of fear, hope, and love — General Confer cnce in J 808 — Attends the first delegated Conference in 1812 — His views on some parts of our ecclesiastical economy — Appointed a con- Terence missionary — His letter to the Rev. Lyman Beecher— State of that controversy — Mr Garrettson's views of the subject — Hip charity sermon — Not pleased with being returned a supernumerary — Domestic enjoyments — Makes a journey to Albany, Schenectady. Troy, &c— Returns home— Solemn reflections — Makes another southern tour — Visits New- York, Trenton, Burlington, Philadel- phia, Wilmington, Abington, and his native place — Reflections on the state of the people — Goes to Baltimore, and participates in a revival of the work of God in that city— Returns to Rhinebeck. In the year 1811 Mr. Garrettson was appointed again to the New-York district, over which he presided with 254 LIFE OF THE dignity and usefulness four years. He was every where received, both by preachers and people, as a father in the gospel, and his word was often attended with power to the hearts of his hearers. It was at this time that the writer became more intimately acquainted with this venerable servant of God ; and still remembers with pleasure and gratitude the tenderness with which he was treated by him. With what delight have I accompanied him to some of his quarterly meetings, a, id witnessed the devotedness of his soul to the service of his divine Master. » Mr. Garrettson occasionally employed the hours which were not otherwise devoted to the services of the sanctu- ary, in writing. Though his publications are by no means numerous, yet they are sufficient to speak for him, since his voice is hushed in the silence of the grave. The first publication was an account of his experience and travels, from which copious extracts have been made in the first part of this memoir. The second was on the owls of slavery, a copy of which I have not been able to find. It was about this time that he published his sermon ''On the union of fear, hope, and love in the believer." The object of Mr. Garrettson in this sermon was to show how fear, hope, and love, coexist in the heart of a true believer in Christ, balancing and regulating each other. ' l Fear and hope to the soul of a Christian," says he, u are like the cork and lead to the net ; the cork keeps it from sinking, and the lead from too much floating ; — so it is in a spiritual sense ; fear keeps hope from rising into pre- sumption, and hope keeps fear from sinking into depair." — " There is also a union in the souls of believers between fear and love. Love without fear would become secure, and fear without love would be slavish. Love is the dearest companion of filial fear. There is nothing more fearful than genuine love, and nothing more loving than filial fear These two graces sweetly draw the soul to God. Love i c REV. F. GARRETTSON. the grace that unites the soul to God, and fear keeps it from departing from him."* At the general conference held in the city of Baltimore in 1808, on account of the great increase of our work, extending over so large -a territory, the number of travel- ling preachers continually multiplying, it was resolved to establish a delegated general conference, to be composed of a certain number of delegates to be elected by the seve- ral annual conferences. This measure, so necessary for the well being of the Church, had been in contemplation by Bishop Asbury and others, elders in the ministry, for several years. When it was first proposed at this general conference, it met with a determined opposition, and was finally lost by a very considerable majority. Towards the close of the conference, however, it was reconsidered and presented in a somewhat modified form, and very unanimously adopted. The first delegated general conference was held in the city of New- York, in May, 1812. Among others, as dele- gates from the New- York conference, was Mr. Garrettson ; and such were the respect and confidence manifested toward him by his brethren, that at every subsequent gene- ral conference he was selected as one of their delegates. In this character, though he often differed with some of his brethren on certain points of church government, he always manifested the most stern and inflexible opposition to any innovation upon the established doctrines of the church ; at the same time cheerfully bowing to the will of the majority on matters of indifference. In respect to the question on which the general confer- ence have long been divided in sentiment, namely, whe- ther the presiding elders should continue to be appointed us they now are by the bishops, or be elected by the annual conferences, it is well known that Mr. Garrettson * Those who wish to see the whole discourse may find it in thf Methodist Magazine (in which it was republished) for July. 1825 256 LIFE OF THE was in favour of their election by the conferences. This is mentioned merely as an historical fact, without entering into the merits of the question, pro or con, or intending even to express an opinion in relation to it, any further than to say that, whether right or wrong, no doubt can be entertained but that Mr. Garrettson acted from the purest motives, and according to the best dictates of his judgment. In the year 1815, Mr. Garrettson published a Sermon which he had preached in John-street church, N. Y.\for the benefit of the Methodist Charity School. This school has been in existence for more than forty years. It is designed' for the special benefit of the poor children under the care of our Church, orphans and others, and is supported by the voluntary contributions of the community. For this purpose a sermon is preached annually in each church in the city, and a collection taken up for the benefit of the 3chool, at which time the children are present. After stating the objects of the institution, the nature of true charity, and the arguments by which the duty is enforced, Mr. Garrettson says, " I have brought forward these strong testimonials, my beloved friends, to strengthen and animate your faith in this glorious work. Call to your remembrance the prayers and alms of Cornelius, which ascended to heaven as a sweet memorial before the Lord. You now have it in your power to bring blessings on your- selves, and to entail them on your posterity to the latest generation." " You see these tender lambs rising from their seats to express their gratitude for what their kind benefactors have done for them, and to implore farther aid." " You see their little hands stretched out, while their eyes are fixed on you, as their fostering fathers and mothers, and to all who are willing to reach to them a friendly hand." " Brethren, if you want barren souls and slender fortunes, give sparingly to the poor ; but if rou want to be rich in grace, and your ability to do good REV. F. GARRETTSON. 257 to be increased, then give liberally, accordingly as God has bestowed upon you." In this way did Mr. Garrettson plead in behalf of poor children ; and through his and the influence of others who have from time to time lent their aid to the support of this benevolent institution, it has gladdened the heart of many a widowed mother and many a helpless orphan. At the close of his service as presiding elder of the New- York district, in the year 1816, he was again appointed as a missionary within the bounds of the New- York confer- ence. This appointment was also designed, as is believed, to give him an opportunity to travel at large, as his inclina- tion, age, and circumstances might dictate ; the conference and bishops having full confidence that he would employ all his time and talent in the best way he could for the glory of God and the good of souls. It was during this year that he published " A Letter to the Rev. Lyman Beecher, containing animadversions on a pamphlet" written by that gentleman, entitled " An Address of the Charitable Society for the education of pious young men for the ministry of the Gospel." This pamphlet of Mr. Beecher gave great offence to most of those denominations of Christians not connected with that charitable society. To awaken a spirit of liberality among Christians for the support of that institution, Mr. Beecher gave a most pitiful description of the spiritual and moral desolations of our country, the paucity of "compe- tent ministers" to afford moral and religious instruction to the people ; and likewise made a powerful appeal to the community, to induce them to exert themselves by every possible means, and especially by pecuniary contributions, to assist in educating and sending forth these " indigent, pious young men." It was generally thought, and I believe very justly, that Mr. Beecher, in his descriptions of the spiritual destitu- tions of many parts of our country, was not fully borne out 23 258 LIFE OF THE by facts, and that in his estimate of the number of " qua= lifted ministers," he had excluded nearly all except those of his own denomination. He calculated the population ot the country at that time to be 8.000,000, and says, that from the best information he could obtain, there were not over 3,000 " educated ministers of the gospel in our land ; leaving a deficiency of 5,000 ministers, and a population of 5,000,000, destitute of proper religious instruction :" — that is, on the ratio of one minister for every 1,000 of the population, which he supposes to be necessary to afford that quantum of religious instruction which the wants of society demanded. It was said above that it was supposed that Mr. Beecher designed to exclude nearly all other denominations except those of his own order — meaning thereby the Congrega- tional, Presbyterian, and Dutch Reformed orders, — from being competent to preach the gospel. According to the best data within our reach, there were not less than 6,000 ministers at that time belonging to the Presbyterian, Congregational, Dutch Reformed, Lutheran, Baptist, and Protestant Episcopal churches ; and allowing only 2,000 for the Methodists and all other sects, which it is believed is very considerably below the actual number, we had even then one minister for every one thousand inhabitants. From this computation it will appear that the supposition is fully sustained ; at least there were at that time not less than 3,000 ministers belonging to the three denominations of Presbyterians, Congregationalists, and Dutch Reformed, all of which hold fast the distinguishing doctrines of Cal- vinism. Allowing the accuracy of these remarks, what could have been Mr. Beecher's design in sounding the note of alarm on such a high key ? Did he not mean to insinuate among his brethren of New-England, to whom the Address was especially directed, that all other ministers must be superseded, as not being qualified to impart religious REV. F. GARRETTSON. 259 instruction ? It is not intended to impeach the motives of the author of this Address. Such is the power of preju- dice, operating under the impulse of strong, local feelings, that he might have persuaded himself that the salvation of the nation depended upon a well-organized Calvinistic ministry, marching forward in firm phalanx against the host of Arminians, and all others whom they might con- sider to be heterodox in their religious opinions. Allowing this to have been the case, the means resorted to on this occasion were highly proper. But if any choose to say that this was not the belief of Mr. Beecher and his associates, then they must allow that the assumptions contained in their Address were entirely unwarranted by facts,— that a false and highly exaggerated description was given of the moral and spiritual destitution of our country. The inevitable result of this investigation is this :-— 1. If Mr. Beecher' s statement, that there were but " 3,000 competent religious instructed" at that time, were true, none were considered such except Calvinistic ministers, and not even all of these, for most of the Baptists are such. 2. By supplying the deficiency of 5,000 ministers with such as Mr. Beecher had described, then all other minis- ters must be put down as incompetent to instruct the people in religious things. 3. To accomplish this object, entirely sectarian in its character, the Address was writ- ten and circulated, in which it was stated that " To produce such a combination and such efforts, the wretched state of our country must be made known. The information contained in this Address may, with propriety, it is believed, be communicated on the sabbaths to all our worshipping assemblies, and the investigation commenced in it, with propriety be continued, until a regular and minute account can be given of the religious state of our land. The newspaper, the tract, and maga- zines, must disclose to our slumbering countrymen their danger. The press must groan in the communication of 260 LIFE OP THE our wretchedness ; and from every pulpit in the land the trumpet must sound long and loud. The nation must be awaked to save itself by its own energies, or we are undone !" Such was the language of the Address. Such were the mighty efforts to be made to annihilate the influence of all the ministers in the land, but such as should be marshal- led under the Geneva standard, and answer to the watch- word taught in the theological school under the charge of this charitable society. Is it therefore any wonder that other denominations took the alarm ? Among those whose zeal was kindled on this occasion , Mr. Garrettson showed himself in the foremost ranks. Excepting the bishops of our church, perhaps no man living was better qualified from his perional observation, to make a true estimate of the religious state of the country. For more than forty years he had travelled in various parts of the United States, and preached the everlasting gospel with a rare success. Believing that Mr. Beecher's repre- sentations were calculated to make an erroneous impression on the public mind ; that he unjustly depreciated the talent ; the piety, and usefulness of ministers of other denomina- tions, and that his remarks tended to promote a spirit of sectarian zeal imcompatible with those liberal views and feelings inculcated in the gospel of Jesus, Mr Garrett- son addressed himself directly to Mr. Beecher on these subjects, in a printed letter of 28 pages, 12mo. He commences by telling Mr. Beecher, that he had "been endeavouring to promote the Redeemer's kingdom through various parts of this continent for more than forty years," and that during that time he had witnessed the displays of the convincing and regenerating power of God from one end of the country to the other. But it " appears to me," says he, " that you and your associates have given a very unfair and uncharitable representation of the reli- gious state of our nation, whether designedly or for want REV. F. GARRETTSON. 261 of better information, I leave for your readers to deter- mine." The remainder of the first part of the letter is devoted to the refutation of what were considered to be Mr. Beech- er's injurious imputations of other ministers; but the author confines himself principally to the vindication of his own brethren of the Methodist ministry, leaving it to others to answer for themselves. The following paragraph will show how adroitly and successfully Mr. Garrettson meets his antagonist in one item of his calculations : — "You have placed your church in Connecticut on the highest scale among the several states in the Union. You have given a short history of it, and have, in your way, prostrated the southern part of our country. Probably you are a native of Connecticut ; I was born in Maryland ; and as you have, among other southern states, undertaken to degrade the religious character of the people of this state, I am willing to compare them with those of your state. I am well acquainted with p.lmoit every part of both ; and as you have fixed your eye on the Congrega- tional Church in Connecticut, I shall fix mine on the Methodist Episcopal Church in Maryland. " You say that you have upwards of 200 congregations, averaging 50 members each, making about 10,000 church members. I have looked over our church records, and find that we have in Maryland* more than 25,000 church * Mr. Beecher had represented the state of Maryland as being in a most deplorable condition. After having said that Virginia, with a population of 974,622, needed 900 ministers in addition to the 60 it already had to make up the 1 for every 1,000 of the inhabitants, he says, " Of the state of Maryland we cannot speak particularly. But from general information on the subject, we have no reason to believe the supply any better than that of Virginia ;" that is, as 60 to 900. He must therefore have considered either that the Method- ists were not worthy to be included among Christian ministers and members of the Church, or otherwise greatly depreciated the reii gious character of the state of Maryland. 23* 262 LIFE OF THE members, who have the pure word of God preached, and the sacraments duly administered." This certainly was a triumphant refutation of Mr. Beecher's statement. In addition to its being the professed object of this Address to awaken the slumbering energies of this nation to the religious state of the people, it was believed by many, and indeed I believe by most who read the Address, that it had a political object to accomplish. This belief, in connexion with the general movements of the Congre- gational churches in New-England, was founded on the following passage. After intimating that our general government was very defective as to its provisions for its own permanency, the Address says : 11 A remedy must be applied to this vital defect of our national organization. But what shall that remedy be 1 There can be but one. The consolidation of the state governments would make a despotism. But the preva- lence of pious, intelligent, enterprising ministers, through the nation, at the ratio of one for a thousand, would esta- blish schools, and academies, and colleges, and habits, and institutions of homogeneous influence. These would pro- duce a sameness of views, and feelings, and interests, which would lay the foundation of our empire on a rock. Religion is the central attraction which must supply the deficiency of political affinity and interest. Religion is the bond of charity, which in storms must undergird the ship," — meaning evidently the national ship. Whether Mr. Beecher really designed to produce a political revolution, by effecting a change in the national constitution, or merely to produce such homogeneousness of views, and feelings, and concentration of action, as would enable those who should be under the influence of these views and feelings to control the national elections and coun- cils, we pretend not to determine. .It is, however, manifest, I think, to all dispassionate minds, that could he place one rninister of his own order over everv one thousand of the REV. P. GARRETTSON. 263 inhabitants of these states— and his calculations went to that object — for by including ministers of all other orders, there was more than that proportion even then, — they might exert a most powerful influence on the national legislature. At any rate, many serious people fully believed this was one object of the Address. That this was the opinion of Mr. Garrettson is evident from the following sentence : — " The glimmering light beaming through your perform- ance leads us to suppose that as you are the privileged order in the eastern states, so you wish to be through the whole Union." Whatever may be thought of the merits of this controversy, such was the general burst of indig- nation manifested from almost all quarters against the assumptions of the Address, the evident proscriptions it uttered against other denominations of Christians, that the friends of Mr. Beecher it is said called in and destroyed the Address.* It was, however, reprinted by those who were inimical to its principles, thinking that probably the most effectual way to prevent them from being carried into effect "was to have them generally understood. Mr. Garrettson finishes his strictures in the following words: — " I hope in future that you and your associate? will be more wise and pious. You will then be less self- confident, and will find it easier to exercise Christian * But though the Address was called in, the principles set fortlt and advocated in it, have never, so far as I have understood, been disavowed, either by Mr. Beecher or any of his friends. Had this been done, so much notice would not have been taken of this affair in this place. On the contrary, subsequent measures have only tended to strengthen the belief expressed by Mr. Garrettson and others, that something more than a mere desire to propagate pure religion, had mingled itself with the councils of that society, and those who were pledged for its support. Sorry indeed should we be to attribute any improper motive to any body of men ; but we can no more close our eyes to the history of events, than wo can refrain from rejoicing that the " Lord God omnipotent reigneth," cmti grantcth to his poople rest in this Happy land. 264 LIFE OF THE charity toward those who do not think in every particuiai as you do. I have during my ministry laboured for peace , and I desire as far as it is admissible to have a charitable feeling for all. It was with a degree of reluctance that I undertook to write upon this occasion ; but a sense of duty overruled my inclination. I desire neither the honours, riches, nor pleasures of the world, but only to be a follower of the Lord Jesus, whom I have loved from an early part of my life. Indeed for more than fifty years I have studied the Holy Scriptures with pleasure." All who were acquaint- ed with the author of the above extracts, will readily per- ceive that it is perfectly characteristic of his manner of writing, as well as expressive of the prevailing sentiment of his heart. At the conference of 1817, which was held in Middle- bury, Vermont, Mr. Garrettson was returned as a super- numerary. This appointment by no means pleased him. as he fully believed himself competent to do effective service. The appointment, however, was made by the conference with a view to his accommodation, that he might be at liberty to labour when and where he might think he would be most useful ; and the assurance of this respectful and friendly feeling gave him satisfaction. It is manifest that his growing infirmities made it some- what difficult for him to travel very extensively. Blessed with a pious and agreeable family, possessing every thing calculated to make retirement or domestic life desirable and happy, Mr. Garrettson had every inducement which an indulgent Providence could afford to remain at home. Yet in the midst of all these enjoyments, he sighed for another sort of repose, for that repose which resulted from a consciousness of having done his best to bring sinners into the fold of Christ. "My mind," says he, "is after precious souls." To gratify this prevailing desire of his heart, after remaining for a few weeks in the circle of domestic and REV. F. GARRETTSON. 265 .social enjoyment at his mansion in Rhinebeck, and preach- ing as occasion offered in the chapel, in company with Mrs. Garrettson and his daughter he set off on a tour to the north, " hoping," says he, " I might do some little good to the churches." Leaving Mrs. Garrettson at Kin- derhook, at the house of his friend, Judge Van Ness, whose pious consort formed an agreeable associate for Mrs. Gar- rettson, his daughter accompanied him to Schenectady. They stayed with Dr. Nott, the president of Union Col- lege. " This institution," says Mr. Garrettson, " is blessed with a worthy president and professors, and will, I trust, be a blessing to society, and give much pleasure to its patrons." Here the Methodists, though few in number, and far from being generally wealthy, had recently, by great exertion, built a convenient house of worship, in which Mr. Garrettson preached with lively satisfaction. From thence they returned to Troy, and put up at the house of the Hon. George Tibbetts, whose hospitable mansion is delightfully situated on the side of a sloping hill ascending from the eastern part of the city, denomi- nated Mount Ida. On the sabbath Mr. Garrettson preached in the Methodist church in this city, morning, afternoon, and evening, to an attentive congregation; and " truly, " says he, 14 it was a good day." He remarks, that when he first visited this place about thirty years before, there were only a few scattering houses, and no Methodist socie- ty ; but that now he was rejoiced to find a flourishing little city, in which were four houses of worship, and not less than three hundred members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. What seemed to add to his religious enjoyment was the catholic and friendly spirit manifested by the seve- ral religious denominations toward each other. On the 30th of June they all returned in safety, blessing and praising God, to their peaceful home. After his return he makes the following reflections, which perhaps some whom they might concern may read 266 LIFE OF THE to their benefit : — " The great ones have set themselves against the work of reformation. I have laboured to do them good ; but all my efforts seem like water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up. They do not openly oppose ; if they did, perhaps I might have more hope. If I would let them alone, they doubtless would bear with me ; but how can I, as a messenger of God, let them sleep quietly over the pit of destruction !' The most part of the summer months of this year he spent about home, preaching only on the sabbaths, except a tour through some parts of Connecticut, and some visits to New- York, Poughkeepsie, and a few other places in the state. During this time he says, " I have had sweet seasons in reading, writing, and family devotion : I feel that God is good, and I will praise him." He ob- serves, " From the 20th of June to the 9th of December. I have travelled about 1,000 miles, and preached when- ever and wherever I could find an opening." Under date of Dec. 9, 1817, he says, " Being pressed in spirit, though a great cross for me to leave my precious wife and daughter, I entered into an examination in regard to my motives in leaving home — whether duty called me in my 66th year to leave a quiet, plentiful habitation, and a most agreeable family, to encounter the cold and storms of winter, at my own expense ; — but having made up my mind, a little before sunset I bade adieu to my family, went on board the steam boat, and by sunrise next morning found myself in the city of New- York, one hundred miles on my journey southward." Staying only one night in the city, the next day by steam and stage he went to Trenton, where he spent the sabbath very agreeably, preaching to crowded congregations. From thence he passed on to Burlington, where he preached to a very full house, and lodged with his old friend, Mr. Stirling. Of him Mr. Garrettson observes, " He if a very old man, confined to his bed, appears innocent and happy, and has been a great REV. F. GARRETTSON, 267 support to the cause of Methodism in this place." On Tuesday he rode to Philadelphia, and put up at Mr. Lemuel Green's, a located minister, who had travelled and preached until he was worn down, but whose Christian hospitality invited the servants of God under his peaceful roof. He remained in this city preaching to large and attentive audiences in the several churches, visited many of his old friends, with whom he enjoyed sweet fellowship, until the 6th of January, 1818, when he took the stage for Wil- mington, and on the following evening preached to the people with much satisfaction. He passed thence to Abington, where he spent the sabbath, preached three times to the people, and then went on to his native place. Thursday 15th, he says, " I preached within a mile of the spot where I was born : they were chiefly young people and distant relations. They seem," says he, " to be almost an entirely new race of people, there being few in the congre- gation whom I could recognise as my former acquaintance. I fear,'.' he continues, " that my native county makes but little improvement, and that too much dissipation prevails among the young people especially, for their own good either in temporal or spiritual enjoyments. Though the society at Boosbyhill was not as large as it was 45 years since, I was comforted under the reflection that it had been a nursery from which many plants had been taken, some to heaven, and others transplanted to some of the new settlements, where they have grown into stately trees of righteousness. Here they have established themselves, and been the means of good to the souls of others. Thus the work spreads." Here he was cheered with an account of an aged couple, Mr. Herbert and his wife, the first fruits of Methodism in this place ; the woman had recently departed to glory in her 90th year, and the man still lived in the fear of God in the 94th year of his age. Here also lie preached in what was called the Bush Church, the second Methodist church which was built on the continent 268 LTFE OF TRT of America, and which had been standing nearly fifty years. Taking an occasion from the decayed state of the church, and the reflection that so many of the old mem- bers had gone to their reward, and also fearing that the rising generation were not so zealous for God as they should be, he cried aloud from these words, " Who will rise up, and rebuild the temple?" After which, assisted by Mr. Toy, an aged minister, he administered the sacra- ment of the Lord's supper to about 60 communicants, with whom he had a solemn and profitable time. Having finished his labours in these parts, and cleared , as he humbly hoped, his skirts of their blood, he went thence to the city of Baltimore, where he was much re- freshed to find a glorious work of religion going forward. With all the vigour of youth he entered into this work, catching, and enkindling in the hearts of others, the fire of Divine love. He preached in the several churches in the city, morning, afternoon, and evening; attended prayer meetings and lovefeasts ; visited from house to house, and in the midst of all enjoyed great peace of mind and health of body. Though he could not approve of all the exercises which were tolerated, thinking that in some things extrava- gances might have been beneficially checked, yet he rejoiced greatly at witnessing such manifest displays of the awakening and regenerating power of Divine grace. After remaining in this city about two weeks, during which time he preached no less than fourteen sermons, he took his departure for the north, passed through Abing- ton, Philadelphia, Trenton, and New- York, in all which places he stopped long enough to " scatter some of the good seed of the kingdom," and in the latter part of March, after an absence of about four months, he once more saluted his beloved family in peace and health. REV. F. GARRETTSON. 269 CHAPTER XVII. Attends the New-York Conference— Secession of a number from Uie church in New-York— His feelings in relation to that unhappy affair — Makes a short tour to the north — Thence to the eastward — Passes through New- York — Thence on to Middletown, Conn. — Thence to New-London, where he enjoys much peace — Visits Norwich and preaches— Conversation with a pious lady — Revival of religion — Grieved with beholding the ravages of Socinianism — Goes to Providence, R. I., and preaches— Probable check to the Socinian heresy — Visits Boston and Lynn — Origin of Methodism in Dorchester, Mass. — Visits Cambridge — Returns to Hartford— Thence to Rhinebeck — Domestic felicity— Makes a second tour — Affliction — Reflections thereon — Ardent desire for the salvation of souls — Returns through New-York city to Rhinebeck — Revival of religion there — Attends Conference. Mr. Garrettson's relation to the conference, though not altogether such as he wished, remained unchanged, and he continued to employ his time and talent in that way and in those places which he judged might best pro- mote the good of the church. The New- York Conference, which was this year, 1819, held in the city of Troy, was attended with some very serious difficulties, originating from the state of affairs in the city of New- York. These difficulties which terminated in a secession of a number of members with a preacher at their head, were accompanied by measures which made it necessary to bring the affair before the conference ; but though some collisions, existed among some of the preachers in relation to this unhappy business, in which conflicting interests and feelings were enlisted, it terminated as peaceably as could have been expected under the circumstances. To these things Mr. Garrettson alludes in his journal with much feeling. Being a man of peace, and having the interests of the church much at heart, he was always deeply affected whenever any thing occurred to disturb the harmony of brethren, or to impede the progress of 24 270 LIFE OF THE true religion. But though a momentary gloom was spread over the church in the city of New- York, the clouds were gradually dispersed, truth finally prevailed over error, and great peace has since rested on those who loved our Jeru- salem. After remaining at home a short time, on his return from the conference, Mr Garrettson set off on a tour for the north. He visited Kinderhook, attended a camp meeting at Niskayuna, a quarterly meeting at Troy, and preached in Pittstown, Lansingburg, Schenectady, and Albany, and likewise at a quarterly meeting near Spencertown, and then returned to his beloved family atRhinebeck. " Dur- ing this tour," he says, "of about two weeks, I had great sweetness in preaching the word, which I did once or more at every place I visited. I am now," he adds, "officiating in my little congregation at Rhinebeck. Here I am pleasantly situated, an agreeable family with every thing necessary to make life desirable. This makes it the greater cross for me to leave home." On August 18, having engaged a young man to accom- pany him, he took his departure for an eastern tour. He first, however, passed down through Poughkeepsie, over the highlands to Peekskill, to Tarrytown, in all which places he stopped and preached, and to the White Plains, where he preached on sabbath morning, and in the after- noon at New Rochelle. " I am now," he says, " in a part of Mr. Beecher's moral wilderness. We think, how- ever, that the gospel has had a glorious spread in this part of the country. Within eight miles of the place where I now am we can count six or seven Methodist churches, where the word and ordinances of God are administered, and where many persons of undoubted piety assemble for the worship of God." On Monday he rode into the city of New-York, and put up with his old friend, Mr. George Suckley. He observes, " I could have shed tears over the society, on account of their trying situation," alluding REV. F. GARRETTSON. 271 to the unhappy division before mentioned, which was now near its consummation. The Saturday following he left the city on his way eastward. He passed on through Rye, Stamford, Fair- field, Stratford, New Haven, to Middletown, where he spent the sabbath, preaching to a full house of attentive hearers, morning, afternoon, and evening, the last sermon being on the certainty of the resurrection of the body. Thence he passed on to Hebron, where he was happy to find a revival of religion, and to be comfortably situated in the pious family of Mr. Burroughs. On Tuesday he went to New London, where he enjoyed much of the divine presence in secret devotion in the house of God.* This was his first visit to this place. He remained here until Thursday, preaching to a crowded house every evening. On Wednesday evening he gave information that as he expected to depart next day, he would preach at sunrise on the doctrine of Christian perfection. Ac- cordingly he says, " I arose about four o'clock in the morning, and after spending more than an hour in retire- ment, I repaired to the church at the hour appointed, and preached to about 200 attentive hearers. I enjoyed a solemn, sweet season, while endeavouring to water the souls of God's people. " After these solemn exercises were over, and taking some refreshment, he journeyed about four miles, to a Mr Miller's, whose daughters and one son had recently ex- perienced a change of heart, during a revival in New London and its vicinity. The father, 78 years of age, though friendly, made no profession of religion. " With him," says Mr. Garrettson, *' I conversed on the subject of religion, congratulated him on the happy change wrought in his children, and urged him to seek the same blessing ; * It was a common practice with Mr. Garrettson, whenever he first visited a place where there was a church, to repair thither at. the first opportunity for private prayer. 372 LIFE OF THE I endeavoured to obviate the common objection he made ; that he could not change his own heart, by remarking that although Jesus Christ had merited every thing for us by his passion and death, yet we may not expect to be saved unless we seek by repentance, prayer, and faith. After spending several hours with this kind family, and praying with them, we took our departure, and rode ten miles to Norwich, and preached in the church, which was nearly iilled. After service a pious woman asked me if any one had requested me to explain the Lord's prayer. I answered in the negative. She then informed me that she had prayed to God that I might be led to make that prayer the subject of my discourse. I answered, that when I went into the pulpit, as well as before, it lay with much weight on my mind, so much so that I dare not refuse taking it as the foundation of my sermon. She received it as an answer to prayer. She had been particularly exercised on the petition, Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven. It seems that her husband was under an impression that it was his duty to become a travelling preacher, and her mind was deeply exercised in respect to consenting to give him up to the work." While in this place the stationed preacher gave him a reviving account of the spread of God's work in the conversion of souls, which had commenced at camp meetings. It had extended glo- riously through several of the neighbouring towns, and some hundreds had been brought to the knowledge of the truth. Having finished his work here, he passed into the state of Rhode Island, and was much annoyed in one place where he preached, with the Socinians. With the Soci- nian doctrine Mr. Garrettson held no fellowship. Perhaps his zeal never showed itself more intensely on any subject than when he came in contact with a system that to sup- port itself, the real Divinity, the proper, unoriginated, and eternal Deity of Christ, must be cailed in question. His REV. F. GARRETTSON. 273 tract on this subject, which was published in the Method- ist Magazine, and by the Tract Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, evinces the deep interest he felt in the support of this cardinal doctrine of Christianity. He could, not, therefore, but behold with sorrow and indignation the ravages which the Socinian scheme was now, and had been for some time past, making among the churches in New-England, particularly in the metropolis of Massachu- setts, as well as in some parts of Rhode Island. After preaching with much satisfaction in Providence, both in the Methodist church, and by request, in the one occupied by the Rev. Mr. Wilson, a pious Presbyterian clergyman, Mr. Garrettson rode forward to Bristol, where he preached to a large congregation on the doctrine of Christian Perfection, a favourite theme with him. Here he found a large society of pious members, whose devout behaviour and delightful singing pleased him much. Of the bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church, residing in this place, Mr Garrettson speaks in terms of high commendation, as a man deeply devoted to the interests of Christ, and expresses an ardent hope that he with his clergy and the Methodist preachers, between whom there appears no difference in their doctrinal views, will be able to check the progress of the Socinian heresy, and stem the tide of Hopkinsian refinements on the liberty of the hu- man will, or their metaphysical speculations concerning a moral inability and natural ability. From Bristol he went on to Warren, and preached on " Now the just shall live by faith ; but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him." Among others, the Unitarian minis- ter made one of his hearers. May he not have heard in vain ! " I feel," says he, " for this loving society. " In Somerset he also preached to an attentive congregation, with much satisfaction. He then passed on to Easton, thence to Dorchester, and thence through Boston, in company with the Rev. 24* 274 LIFE OF THE Elijah Hedding and wife, to Lynn, where he preached on a short notice to a large congregation, on " Put ye in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe." Mr. Garrettson gives the following account of the rise and progress of the Methodist Church in the town of Dor- chester. He says, " I lodged with a Mr. Otheman, a pious, wealthy gentleman from France, who a few years since removed from Boston to this place. Some time previously to his leaving Boston, he had embraced reli- gion, and had become a member of our Church. After removing to Dorchester, he invited preaching at his house. Though but few attended at first, and much opposition was excited, so much so that the thoughtless multitude frequently stoned the house, the Lord soon began to work on the hearts of the people, and in a' short time a considerable society was established. Soon after, more room being wanted, Mr. Otheman built a handsome church at his own expense. It was in this house that I preached." From Lynn Mr. Garrettson went to Cambridge, where he lodged with his old friend, Mr. Black, under whose hospitable roof, and in the society of whose pious family, he felt himself much at home. The Sunday following he preached three sermons in the city of Boston, to very large congregations. From thence he journeyed through the several towns, in most of which he officiated, to Hartford, where he preached with great freedom. Sunday he preached in Goshen (Connecticut) in the morning, and in the afternoon in Cornwall, and on the Tuesday follow- ing he was permitted once more to embrace his family in health and peace. " In this tour," says he, " I was absent six. weeks, travelled 600 miles, and preached about 60 sermons. I thank God for his presence, which was with me every day. I do not wish to be employed in a better work." We have already seen, that notwithstanding Mr. Gar- REV. F. GARRETTSON. 275 rettson enjoyed at home every thing that could make domestic life agreeable — that though age and its attendant infirmities might plead a reasonable excuse for his remain- ing in such a pleasant retreat, free from the cares and fatigues of travelling — yet the ardour of his soul would prompt him to break through all these restraints, and brave the inclemency of seasons, contemning equally the indulgences of this life and the peltings of the storms, when they stood in the way of his duty to God and man. Accordingly, in the latter part of December, in the year 1820, we find him bidding adieu to his family again, for another tour to the south. As he travelled over nearly the same ground as that traced out in a former chapter, passed through similar exercises of mind, and preached with equal ardour, displaying for his old friends and near relatives the same affectionate attachment, as well as evincing the same devotedness to the cause of his divine Master, it is thought not necessary to give a detailed account of this journey. The following reflections, how- ever, which he wrote down in Philadelphia, under date of Jan. 21, will be read by every pious reader with satisfaction. It seems that before he left New- York, walking out one evening, he slipped down in the street, and severely bruised his leg. Notwithstanding he was able to pursue his jour- ney to Philadelphiaj'when he arrived there, his leg was so much swollen that he was obliged to keep his room, and to put himself 'under the care of a physician. To Dr. Sargeant he expresses much gratitude for his kind atten- tions. While confined here, unable for active service, he thus writes : — " All is right, being in the order of God. He knows what is best for his creatures. For three sabbaths I have been deprived of the privilege of the sanctuary ; but while thus solitary, I have been contemplating on the wonder? of redeeming love, and the various beauties of the sacred Scriptures. O redemption ! How deep! How unsearch 276 LIFE OF THE able the Deity ! Eternally existing in three hypostases, yet one glorious, incomprehensible Deity, coequal, con- substantial, and coeternal ! " During the week past I have had a great travail of soul. My exercises were various, but the most weighty concerned myself. I saw indeed in God infinite perfec- tion : but in myself merely I am but a fallen speck of the creation. I inquired what motive could have led me at this period of my life, and at this inclement season of the year, to leave my quiet home. Was it for money 1 No. Was it for ease or honour 1 No. Was it because I thought myself a great preacher ? No. I was, as I believed, called of God, forty-six years ago, to be a minister of Jesus Christ ; and the blessed God has frequently suggested to me that he had called me for life, or as long as I should be able to work in his vineyard. I did some years since plead with the Lord that I was growing old and infirm, and begged that I might be permitted to stay at home, and labour there occasionally as I was able. The blessed God restored me to my hearing almost as perfectly as ever, strengthened my intellect, renewed me in soul and body, and told me I must go and do his work. To be sure it is a great cross for me to leave one of the most agreeable families with which a man can be blessed ; but for Christ's sake I can stagger under even this cross, and cheerfully cast in my mite to promote the interests of his kingdom." Here is the true secret whence originated that restless ness of spirit whenever he had been long at home. He felt that the vows of his God were upon him, and that he must perform them. Often when I have been favoured with a visit to his friendly and peaceful mansion, have i witnessed, even in the midst of every thing calculated to make life desirable, the anxiety of his mind to be in the field, labouring for his Lord and Master; and I verilv believe that he enjoyed himself far better in an humble cottage on coarse fare, when thus employed in the LordV REV. F. GARRETTSON. 277 vineyard, especially if he could have one or two of his brethren in the ministry with him, whom he always loved with the tenderest affection, than he otherwise could, sur- rounded with all that this world can afford. This work was the aliment of his soul, it being " his meat and his drink to do his Master's will," as a public servant of the church. As a proof of the high estimation in which his labours were held by the citizens of Philadelphia, we may remark, that unknown to him, the official members of the church appointed a committee to wait on him, and request his longer continuance with them. To which he replied, " I receive the voice of the church as the voice of God to me, and therefore agree to remain a few weeks longer." To the same fact, the following letter, directed to Mrs. Garrettson, will bear testimony : — " Dear Sister, — We accept with much esteem the tender yourself and daughter have been pleased to make us in- your Christian respects. " Your good husband has been detained among us, for some time, partly by affliction, and partly by a general or official request. Some of us see, or think we see, a pro- vidence in his affliction. It opened the way in part for his useful labour among us, which possibly might not have been the case, had he passed through on his original plan. He will now leave us. His leg has got well, and he has delivered his message to thousands ; many of whom, we trust, in the embrace of the truth, will praise God in time and eternity for his Christian visit. We have, with others, strove to make his situation as agreeable as was conve- niently in our power, and have been blessed in having him with us under our roof. Many thousands of precious vessels has Jesus scattered through this vale of tears, of whom we now know nothing ; but he will bring them with him, when he 'comes to be glorified in his saints, and in all those who look for his appearing,' 278 LIFE OF THE " Please accept in return, a reciprocity of our Christian esteem ; and make acceptable a tender of our love to your dear daughter. " Believe us in simplicity, " Dear sister, affectionately, " Wm. and Mary Chandler/' After recovering in some measure from his lameness, and preaching several times in the different churches in the city of Philadelphia, he went thence to Baltimore, to the Eastern Shore of Maryland, &c, every where being received as a father in the gospel, preaching to overflowing congregations, until April 26, 1821, when he returned to the city of New-York, where he spent a day or two, and then arrived once more at Rhinebeck, after an absence of a little more than four months. On finding himself again in his domestic circle, he says, " O Lord, how shall I praise thee for thy loving kindness to me, thy poor, un- worthy servant 1" It seems that during his absence there had commenced a gracious revival of religion in Rhinebeck. This was most cheering news to him. " Thank God," says he, " a great change has taken place here within five or six weeks. About 50 have joined the church, and the greater propor- tion of them profess experimental religion, most of whom are young people. Our little church is crowded with atten- tive hearers, and if the work continues we must enlarge it. The blessed God began and carried on this work in his own way, and the stationed preacher and several of the most gifted members in prayer and exhortation, were engaged as workers together with God. Frequently the meetings continued until twelve o'clock at night, and sometimes until two o'clock in the morning. I have met with them almost every night in the week, and have no doubt of the genuineness of the work." The harmony of those who were the subjects of this ivork was somewhat disturbed by- the introduction of a I REV. F. GARRETT30N. 279 ..w of proselytism to the peculiar sentiments of the Anabaptists. This led Mr. Garrettson once more into the field of controversy ; and in a sermon he undertook a defence of infant baptism, in order to prevent the young converts from being drawn aside by the efforts of those who insisted on adult baptism by immersion as the only gospel mode. This had the desired effect, and the good work continued to prosper. The quarterly meeting, which was attended on the 26th and 27th, was a time of great power, and "I trust," says he, "much good was done." On Monday he took the steam boat for Troy, in order to attend the conference. " We had," says Mr. Garrett- son, " an agreeable time through the whole session, with the exception of feeling much sorrow for two members whom we were obliged to expel. I fear poor J. C. is gone for ever. O how awful ! A professed labourer in our Lord's vineyard for more than twenty years, finally dis- graced by his own evil conduct, and cast off. Thus the cause of Christ suffers." 230 LIFE OF TUE CHAPTER XVIII. Mr. Garrettson holds on his way — Engaged in building a hou=t of worship at Rhinebeck — Sets off to attend General Conference — Last visit to his native place Some of the transactions of the con- ference — English delegates — Friendly intercourse and correspond- ence between the English and American conferences — His views on some points of church government — Attends the New-York conference — Makes a western tour — Reflections — Novation schism — Testimony against sabbath breaking — Solemn reflections — At- tends a camp meeting — Retires to his mansion — Private meditations — Visits some of his old friends in Westchester county — Notice of Governor Jay — Death of Mrs. Carpenter — Her character — Visits Kingston — Death and character of Mr. Sands— Death of Mr. C S Death of old friends in New-York — Reflections on a call to the ministry — Death and character of Mrs. Suckley — Visits Phila- delphia — His zeal for missions Deadness to the world— Attends the New-York conference — Preaches and publishes his semi-centen- nial sermon — Extracts from the sermon — Returns to Rhinebeck — Last entry in his journal. I do not find any particular account in the papers left by Mr. Garrettson of his exercises and travels for the years 1822 and 1823. It is, however, well known that he held on his way, in the same undeviating course of exemplary piety, and, as far as his growing infirmities would permit, in the active services of the sanctuary. It was during this interval that he was very active in building a house of worship at Rhinebeck. It will be recollected that in the preceding chapter, when speaking of the revival then prevailing in that place, he remarked that if it continued, they must have a larger house to accommodate the hearers. This was soon found to be the fact; and Mr. Garrettson heartily engaged in the work, contributing largely himself, and ceased not until it was accomplished. Such a work was not only needed, but very befitting the exertions of one who expected at no distant period, to be an inhabitant of that " house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 281 Having been elected a delegate to the general confer- once to be held in the city of Baltimore in the year 1824, in company with Mrs. Garrettson and his daughter he left home in the month of March, came to the city of New- York, where he remained about three weeks, labouring in the city and in Brooklyn, and then, April 1, in company with Mr. Reece, and some others, he took his departure for Philadelphia. Here he lodged with his friend, Dr Sargeant. He remained in the city, visiting his old friends, and preaching in the several churches with much feeling and satisfaction, until Monday the 12th, when he went on to Wilmington, Del., where he preached the next day to a full house, and " God," says he, " was with us of a truth." On leaving Wilmington for Elkton, he says, " A young countryman and his wife took the back seat, paying no respect to age or any thing else, so that I had to ride -on the front seat with my back toward the driver, which so fatigued me that I had to remain a day at Elkton to rest. This, however, gave me the opportunity of an interview with the Rev. Mr. Drake, an aged, intelligent minister, with whom I formed an acquaintance nearly fifty years since. On Tuesday I took the steam boat at 8 o'clock, P. M., and was in Baltimore before daybreak next morning. 1 took lodgings with my good friend, Dr. Baker, who mar- ried the daughter of Mrs. Dickins, the present widow of the late excellent Rev. John Dickins. She sat under my ministry more than forty-five years ago, when she was Miss Yancy. I rejoiced to find her so pleasantly situated, with such a pious, intelligent Christian, as I believe Dr Baker to be. Here also I met with my good brother Reece and others." On Tuesday, April 20, at the request of his nephew, Capt. Norris, who came for the purpose of taking him in his carriage, Mr. Garrettson left Baltimore to visit once more his native place. As this was his last visit to that part of the countrv, I shall present his own account of it 25 •282 LIFE OF TIIE chiefly in his own words. "We rode," says he, ''about twenty miles to Capt. N.'s sister's near Bellair. I find a great vacancy in this house. When I was here a few years since, the mother and her daughter Clarissa, two lovely females, received me with smiles ; — but where are they now? First the sister, and then the mother, took their flight to glory, leaving four brothers and three sisters to mourn their loss. Mrs. Norris and her daughter Cla- rissa were both blessed women, and I cannot doubt but that they have gone safe home. " Friday 23. We set off — my nephew kindly tender- ing his services to conduct me wherever I wished to go — to traverse that part of the country called Bush River Neck, my native place. I saw many places which I used to frequent in the days of my boyhood, and among others the old church in which I was baptized. By this means many circumstances were brought to my recollection which transpired more than sixty years since. I was glad to find that the people had recently repaired the old church, and that a good fence was kept around the graves of our an- cestors. They have, however, no settled minister in what is called the Old Parish ; neither do they want one ; for the Methodists have societies and houses of worship in every direction. We lodged at Mr. Ruthen Garrettson's. who has one of the richest farms in the Neck. His mother was my mother's sister, and my father was his father's brother, and he married my eldest sister's daughter. They both have a respect for religion, and I hope they will yet be saved. "On the Lord's day morning I preached with much satisfaction in the Abington church, and then rode six miles, and preached in a neat church lately built in the forest under the direction of old Mr. Webster, who at this time was dangerously ill. I was sent for to visit him, and found him nigh unto death, joyfully waiting until his time should come. He was umong the first who embraced REV. F. GARRETTSON. 283 religion when the Methodist preachers made their entrance into this part of the country about fifty-six years ago. He is now about eighty-jive years of age, and has been a preacher more than forty years. He has a large family of children and grandchildren settled around him, while he, like a ripe shock of corn, is waiting to be taken to the garner of rest. I had sweet fellowship with him. A few days after I left him he took his departure. I bless God for this opportunity of conversing with him." After spending a day or two longer in visiting his friends, he returned, on the 27th of April, to Baltimore, the seat of the general conference. " May 1, 1824," says Mr. Garrettson, "our conference opened at 8 o'clock, A. M. I am, and I hope I always shall be, an old fashioned Methodist, and therefore was not at all pleased that the conference should have been detained so long in fixing rules for the government of its proceedings. So did not the apostles, elders, and brethren, who assembled at the first council at Jerusalem, but being full of faith and the Holy Ghost, they acted in the utmost harmony one with another." This extract is introduced not as a censure on the general conference for adopting by-laws for the government of their deliberations, but to show the predilection of Mr. Garrettson for primitive sim- plicity and order. At our general conference in 1820, it was resolved to open a more direct intercourse with our brethren in Eng- land by an interchange of delegates from one country to the other.* Accordingly in that year, the Rev. John Emory was sent by the bishops as our representative to the British conference. He bore with him the following letter * This mutual intercourse had been kept up by the visits of Dr. Coke until the year 1804, since which time until the present it had been suspended, though the conferences continued an official corres- pondence with each other. 284 LIFE OF THE " Baltimore, May 27, 1820, The General Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States of America, to the British Conference of Ministers and preachers, late in connexion with the Rev. John Wesley : Rev. and dear Brethren, — Grace, mercy, and peace be multiplied to you, and to the Israel of God under your charge, both at home ana in foreign countries. With a sincere and earnest desire to establish and preserve the most perfect harmony and peace with you, our elder bre- thren, we have adopted measures for opening such friendly intercourse as will, we devoutly pray, tend to the accom- plishment of this desirable end. Situated so remotely from each other, and under differ- ent forms of civil government, it is believed that no mode of correspondence will so effectually unite the European and American Methodists as an interchange of delegates from our respective conferences. We are encouraged to hope that such correspondence will be acceptable to you, from the consideration of the visit of Messrs. Black and Bennett, at our last session, and from the friendly opinion of our dear brother, the Rev, William Black, who has been with us during our present sitting in this city. Should such a friendly intercourse be approved, we shall receive with cordiality your representative at out- succeeding sessions, and, with the most sincere friendship and affection, reciprocate the visit. The prosperity of your missions, both at home and in foreign countries, is matter of praise and thanksgiving to the great Head of the church ; and our unceasing prayer is, that they still may increase more and more. The last four years have been distinguished by no ordi- nary success within the field of our labour : our borders have been greatly enlarged, and the wilderness has bud- ded and blossomed as the rose. The last year especially has been attended with an abundant outpouring of the REV. F. GARRET TSON. 285 Holy Spirit, and the increase of our numbers has exceed- ed that of any former year. The field of missionary labours is opening and extend- ing before us, and the Divine providence appears to be preparing the way for the conversion of the Indian tribes on this vast continent. The bearer, the Rev. John Emory, has been appointed our delegate to your body, and will be able to give you a more particular account of the work under our charge, and especially of our commencement and progress in the missionary cause. Most earnestly praying that the Methodists may be identified in their doctrine, experience, and practice, in every part of the world, and that the Father of lights may pour upon you, and upon us, the Spirit of grace, and pre- serve us in the unity of faith, and in the fellowship and peace of his Son Jesus Christ, we remain, Rev. and dear brethren, yours in the gospel of our common Lord. Signed, by order and in behalf of the Methodist Epis- copal Church, Enoch George, President, Alexander M'Caine, Secretary." To which the British conference returned the following answer : — "To the General Superintendents of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States of America : Dear Brethren, — We enclose to your care the reso- lutions passed by the conference, after the letters addressed to us by the American General Conference, and delivered by the Rev. John Emory, had been read and considered. In addition to the expression of our sentiments con- tained in those resolutions, on the renewal of intercourse between the two conferences, we are directed to request you to convey to your next general conference our warm- est thanks for those declarations of unabated brotherly affection toward us and the connexion, which vour letter- 25* 286 LIFE OF THE contain, and for the appointment of Mr. Emory as your representative. In him we have recognised the purity of your doctrine, and the fervour and simplicity«of your piety. We have received him not as a stranger, but as a " brother be- loved." Our hearts are as his heart, and it will be remem- bered as one of the most pleasing circumstances connected with the conference held in this town, that our personal intercourse with you was here restored, and that this " work of love" was committed to so able and excellent a brother, whose public ministrations and addresses in our conference, have been equally gratifying and instructive « to us and to our people. From the statements made by Mr. Emory as to the progress of the work of God in tlie United States, we have received the greatest satisfaction. We offered our united thanksgivings to God, that the doctrines of primitive Me- thodism, the preachingof which God has so eminently owned in the salvation of men, and the edification of believers, are not only continued among you in their purity, but have been bo widely extended by your great and persevering efforts and that the same holy discipline, in all its essential parts, continues, whenever you form societies, to guard and con- firm the work which God has made to prosper in your hands. For the state of our affairs in Great Britain and Ireland, and in our missionary stations, we refer you to Mr. Emory, who, as health would allow, has attended our sittings, and to those publications with which, before his departure, we shall be happy to furnish him, to be laid before you. You will see that we have had to rejoice with you in the great extension of the work of God into the various parts of the British empire, and that the institutions of Methodism, which we have proved to be so well adapted to promote and to preserve true religion, are known and valued in every quarter of the globe. May we, with you, be the honoured instruments of turning the disobedient to REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 287 the wisdom of the just in every place, and of hastening the universal kingdom of our Lord. The resolutions on the disputes in the Canadas, were adopted after a calm and patient consideration of the case, in which we were greatly assisted by Mr. Emory. We hope they will lead to a full adjustment of those disputes, and that the affection which exists between the two con- nexions generally, will extend itself to the brethren and societies in the Canadas. This is the disposition which we shall earnestly inculcate upon those under our care in those provinces; and we have full confidence that the same care will be taken by you to extinguish every feeling contrary to love, among those over whom you have control and influence. With earnest prayers for you, dear and honoured bre- thren, in particular, on whom devolves the general direc- tion of the affairs of the great body of Methodists in the western world, and whose labours are so severe, but so glorious, — that you may be filled with wisdom for coun- sel, and strength to fulfil the duties of your great office ; — and also for all your churches that they may have rest, and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comforts of the Holy Ghost, may be abundantly multiplied, We are, dear brethren, Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus, Jabez Bunting, President, George Marsden, Secretary. Liverpool, Aug. 7, 1S20." The following are the resolutions referred to in the foregoing address : — "Resolutions of the British Conference in reference to their relation with the American General Conference : The Rev. John Emory having been introduced to the conference as the accredited representative in our body of the general conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States of America, presented a letter 2SS LIFE OF THE from that conference, and gave an interesting and encou- raging statement of the prosperity of the work of God in the United States ; which account the conference received with much satisfaction, and unanimously agreed to the following resolutions on the occasion, viz. 1. That the conference embrace with pleasure this opportunity of recognising that great principle, which, it is hoped, will be permanently maintained, — that the Wesleyan Methodists are one body in every part of the world. 2. That the British conference have frequently rejoiced in the very favourable accounts which have been received, year after year, of the great and glorious work which God is graciously carrying on in the United States of Ameri- ca ; but that it is with peculiar pleasure that they receive a representative from the general conference in America. The statement given by our beloved brother, Mr. Emory, of the present state of Methodism in America, has been received with much joy ; and the conference hereby ex- presses its high satisfaction, not only in the declaration. but in the proof, of the love of our American brethren in fully opening the way for a brotherly intercourse between the European and the American societies. 3. That the conference particularly rejoices in the zeal which is manifested by our American brethren, in carry- ing the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ to the Indian tribes, and in the success which God has already given to their labours in that natural and moral wilderness ; and hopes, that the time is drawing near, when the aborigine of that vast continent shall become the mild and gentle followers of our gracious Redeemer. 4. That it is the earnest wish of this conference, that ihe kind and friendly intercourse which is now opened between the British and American conferences should be continued ; and that, prior to the time of the next general conference in America, the British conference will appoint REV. P. GARRETTSON. 289 one or more of their body to visit our brethren in America, and to be present at their general conference. 5. That a letter shall be sent to the American brethren . containing these resolutions, and strongly expressing our high approbation of the selection of our highly esteemed brother, Mr. Emory, as their representative to our confer- ence, and our earnest desire and prayer, that, in the spirit of Christian love, we may ever be one in Christ Jesus. 6. That there shall be a regular exchange of minutes, magazines, missionary reports and notices, and of all new original works, published by the European and American Methodists, from their respective book rooms." This friendly intercourse being thus opened to the mu- tual satisfaction of the two great divisions of the Method- ist family, this year, 1824, the Rev. Richard Reece was despatched as a representative from the British to the American general conference, accompanied by the Rev. John Hannah as his companion. This is the Mr. Reecc to whom Mr. Garrettson alludes in the foregoing extract from his journal, and of whom he frequently speaks in respectful and affectionate terms. On the introduction of Mr. Reece into the conference he presented the following letter, which was read by the secretary, Dr. Emory : — 14 To the General Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church assembled at Baltimore, in the United States of America : Dear Brethren, — The time has arrived which calls us, in pursuance of a resolution unanimously passed in the conference of 1820, held in Liverpool, to commission a deputation from our body, to attend your ensuing general conference, to convey to you the sentiments of our frater- nal regard, and affectionate attachment, and to recipro- cate that kind and friendly office, which, on your part, was performed by the visit of one of your esteemed minis- ters, the Rev. John Emory. The increased interest in your spiritual welfare, which the establishment of this mode of direct and official com- 290 LIFE OF THE niunication between the two great bodies of Methodists, has naturally excited in us, and, reciprocally, we believe, in you, is to us the first proof of its beneficial tendency, and a cheering indication of its future advantages. For why should the ocean entirely sever the branches of the same family, or distance of place, and distinct scenes of labour, wholly prevent that interchange of the sympathies of a special spiritual relationship which cannot but be felt by those who, under God, owe their origin to the labours of the same apostolic man ; — bear testimony to the same- great truths before the world, — and whose efforts to spread the savour of the knowledge of Christ, on our part through the British empire, and on yours through the population of those rising states, which have derived their language, ■heir science, and their protestantism, from the same com- mon source, — Almighty God has deigned so abundantly to bless ? We received with heartfelt joy the messenger of your churches, the Rev. John Emory, bearing the grateful news of the progress of the work of God in your societies, and were refreshed by the expressions of your charity We now commit the same charge to the faithful and be- loved brethren whom we have appointed to salute you in the Lord, that nothing may be wanting on our part, to strengthen the bond of brotherly love, and to call forth mutual and united prayers for each other's welfare, by a mutual knowledge of each other's state. We are on the point of closing the sittings of the pre- sent conference, in which the perfect harmony of the brethren assembled has afforded matter for the most devout and grateful acknowledgments to God ; both as it is the indication and the result of that entire affection and unity which exist among our societies throughout the united kingdom. Through the mercy of God, we have rest on every side, — the discipline we received from our venerable founder is still enforced with unabated zcal^ REV. P. GARRETTSOX. 29i and under a conviction of its agreement with the word of God, cheerfully observed ; — the value of those apostolic doctrines which distinguish us in the old and new world, was never, we believe, more powerfully felt among us, and never were they with greater fidelity exhibited in our public ministry ; and, as a crowning blessing, numbers are yearly added to us and to the Lord, and the light and influence of the gospel, are yearly extending, by the Divine blessing upon the labours of the brethren, into the still dark and uncultivated parts of our beloved country. * Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy and for thy truth's sake.' You will also, dear brethren, partake of our joy in the success with which it has pleased God to attend the laboure of our brethren in our different foreign missions. The leading particulars of their state and prospects you will have learned from our Magazine and Annual Reports, and it will therefore suffice to state, that, in this department of the work of God committed to our charge, upwards of one hundred and fifty of our preachers are employed ; and that the zeal and liberality with which our people and the friends of religion generally co-operate with us in this hallowed work, answer to every call, and seem only roused to greater activity and enlargement as the sad condition of the pagan world is by new developements displayed before them. In the formation of regular missionary societies in your church, to promote the universal establishment of the kingdom of our adorable Saviour, and ' to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God,' we have greatly rejoiced ; and in those encouraging dawnings of large success among the aboriginal tribes of your native continent, which have cheered the early efforts of those devoted men whom you have ordained to this blessed service. In addition to the doctrines in which we have been instructed, God has in his mercy given to us, as Methodists, a discipline adapted 292 LIFE OF THE in a very special manner to missionary operations, to build up and establish infant religious societies among heathens, and to call forth in every place a supply of labourers for extending the work, and enlarging the cultivated field into the untilled and neglected wilderness. In the spirit of our great founder under God, who regarded the whole world as his parish, let the Methodists of Great Britain and America regard the whole world as the field of their evangelical labours; and mindful of this our high voca- tion, let us enter in at every open door, trusting in God to dispose the hearts of our people to provide the means ne- cessary to carry our sacred enterprises into effect ; striving together in our prayers that from us the word of the Lord may ' sound forth to nations and kingdoms of men, of all colours and climates, now involved in the ignorance and misery of pagan idolatry, and sitting in darkness and the shadow of death.' More fully to declare unto you our state, and to be mC- nesses of 1 the grace of God in you,' we have appointed and hereby do accredit as our representative to your approaching general conference, the Rev. Richard Reece, late president of our conference, and have requested the Rev. John Hannah, one of our respected junior preach- ers, to accompany him on this service. ' Beloved in the Lord and approved in Christ,' we commit them to the grace of God, and to your brotherly affection. We earn- estly pray that your approaching assembly may be under the special guidance and benediction of our common Head, and that all your deliberations may issue in the lasting union and prosperity of your numerous and widely extended socie- ties; that you may increase in faith and love; and that your labours may year after year continue to enlarge and esta- blish in the western world the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ — ' to whom be glory in the church throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. ; Signed in behalf of the Conference, Sheffield, Aug. 11, 18?3. H. Moore, President" REV. F. GARRETTSON. 293 After which Mr. Rcece delivered the following ad- dress : — " Mr. President, — The paper which has just been read is an expression of the sentiments avowed by the British conference, — and in which I heartily concur; — sentiments of affectionate concern for the prosperity and advantage of our brethren on this side of the Atlantic. It afforded us much satisfaction to receive from you, by your excellent deputy, the Rev. John Emory, an overture to more frequent intercourse and closer fellowship of bro- therly love. Wesleyan Methodism is one every where, — one in its doctrines, its discipline, its usages. We believe it to be the purest, simplest, most efficient form of Chris- tianity that the world has known since the primitive days. Doubtless, it is that which has had the sanction of Al- mighty God, in its rapid and extended success, beyond any other in modern times. It commenced, nearly a cen- tury ago, in the mother country, in one of her universities, with a few young men, * chosen vessels, meet for the Mas- ter's use.' Then, it was the * cloud little as a human hand :' — now, it has spread widely, and is still spreading, over both hemispheres, while* its fertilizing showers are descending upon Europe, America, Africa, and Asia, pro- ducing fruit wherever they fall, — the fruit of knowledge and holiness. Methodism is our common property. We are alike interested in its preservation and diffusion. It is a sacred trust committed to us. It is a heavenly trea- sure which we have to dispense for the benefit of man. Its spirit is not sectarian, but catholic, and embraces Christians of every denomination, who hold the essential truths of the gospel, and ' love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.' Your brethren in England were never more concerned to preach its distinguishing doctrines of justifi- cation by faith, the direct witness of the Spirit in the hearts of believers, and salvation from all sin in this life, with simplicity, fidelity, and zeal, than at present ; — never 26 294 LIFE OF THE more concerned to enforce its discipline with firmness and love, and to 1 train up' a people in the ' nurture and admonition of the Lord ;' — never more careful that it do not deteriorate in their hands, but that it be transmitted, pure and entire, to ' faithful men,' who shall succeed to their labours : for which purposes they are anxious in their instruction, and strict in their examination of the rising race of preachers, that these may be sound in the faith, and lovers of our discipline. Many of them are all we can hope, younn men whose ' profiting' has ■ appear- ed unto all,' and to whom we can commit the deposit, without anxiety, believing that they will ' obtain mercy of the Lord to be faithful.' The result of this care and pains to preserve a pure and effective ministry, has been, and is seen in the blessing of God upon our labours, in an extension of his work through every part of our country, where ? great and effectual doors' are opening into new places, and the Lord is ' adding to his church daily such as are saved.' The members of our society are also improving in persona! holiness, and zeal for good works. They are more ready to concur with us in spreading the gospel abroad among heathen nations, as well as in tightening the * cords* of our discipline at home. On the whole, our prospects were never more bright, nor had we ever more reason to be encouraged. My opportunities of intercourse with you since my arrival in this country, together with the satisfaction I have had in attending two of your annual conferences, where I met with many of my American brethren, render this one of the most interesting periods of my life. I have witnessed the disinterested and laborious zeal which dis- tinguishes your character and conduct. I have seen the fruit of your labours in the excellent societies in New- York, Boston, Philadelphia, Winchester, and this city. The doctrines and discipline of Methodism, when rightlv REV. P. GARRETTSON. 295 applied, do, under the blessing of God, produce a scriptural conversion, and form the genuine Christian character every where ; and either at home or abroad, I find that a Methodist, who lives according to his profession, is a ' fellow heir* of the same * grace of life.' My prayer is, in accordance with the prayers of the body whom I repre- sent, that you may go on and prosper, until, as the honoured instruments of God, you have diffused gospel light and life through every part of this vast continent, and every class of its interesting population ; — that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be every where glorified in his disci- ples. Amen." , The deliberations of this conference were protracted beyond the usual time, chiefly in consequence of the nu- merous petitions and memorials which were sent up by many of our local brethren and other members of the church, requesting a lay representation in the councils of the church," as well as several of an opposite character, praying that all things might remain as they were. Though Mr. Garrettson, in coincidence with the majority of his brethren, thought it inexpedient, under present circum- stances, to grant the prayer of the petitioners for a lay representation, yet he seemed to think that some modifi- cation in the general outlines of the government might be usefully introduced. From what he has recorded in his journal on this subject, it appears that he adhered to the last to the opinion that each annual conference should have its bishop, to travel annually through its bounds, to preside in its sessions, and to station, with suitable coun- sel, the preachers. And though I cannot agree with him in all his views in reference to this subject, I thought it due to him, and to the readers of his life, to state the fact, without farther comment, than just to say, that the mode of church government involves questions so various and perplexing, on account of the silence of Scripture as to prescribing any particular mode in distinction from all 296 LIFE OF THE others, that writers on this subject should, above all others, avoid a dogmatical spirit, and exercise much forbearance and charity toward each other. After attending the New- York conference June 1, 1824, in peace and safety, he returned once more " to bless his household." He did not, however, remain Jong in his beloved retirement. In company with Mrs. Garrettson and his daughter he set off on a tour to the north-west. After preaching in Schenectady on sabbath, July 4, 1824, he took a canal boat on Monday for Utica, where he arrived on Tuesday, and in the evening of Wednesday preached #to a crowded house, on a favourite subject, from the words of our Saviour to Martha, "But one thing is needful." Here he met Bishops George and Hedding, with whom he took sweet counsel. He makes the following reflec- tions on the changes and improvements in this part of the country : — " What an astonishing alteration in this country ! More than thirty years since, when I was travelling through these parts, preaching and forming circuits, I could find here and there only a log hut to screen me from the blasts of winter, or the scorchings of a summer's sun. But now the country is thickly populated, farms highly cultivated, villages multiplied, and churches erected in every direc- tion, splended coaches rolling through the streets, &c, &c. I fear, indeed, the people in general think more of the world than they do of their souls. I awfully fear for the inhabitants of this fertile country." After remaining in Utica eight days, " bearing," as he says, " a faithful testimony against the prevailing vices of the place," and likewise recording his sense of the kind- ness of his friends, he returned to Schenectady, where "our good friends at the college," says he, "were very attentive, doing ev^ry thing in their power to make us comfortable." After observing that in Utica and some other places, the REV. F. GARRETTSON. 297 Methodists seem to be on the back ground, he says, " What is the cause 1 O Lord, heal our backslidings, and bring us to our former standing. Some men learn to preach as they would learn any other profession, get a scanty sup- port, and I fear get but few if any souls for their hire. The good old plan was to be thrust out with the awful words pressing on the soul, Wo is me if I preach not the gospel! In all such there is an ardent desire for holi- ness, a burning zeal for the salvation of perishing sinners, and by their means precious souls are gathered into the fold of Christ. "I spent the greater part of Thursday 15," says Mr Garrettson, " at Dr. Nott's, reading Jones's Church His- tory. He certainly views what I call the Novatian schism — which happened about the middle of the third century — much more favourably than I can. After the death of the bishop of Rome, when the people were about to elect a successor, Novatian wished for that high office in the church ; but when he found himself defeated, he formed a party, which elected him, and set him apart as bishop of Rome. If this was not making a schism in the church, I am at a loss to know what ought to be called by that name. At that period, under the persecutions of the hea- then, Jesus Christ certainly had a living body at Rome. I think it was pride, or some other unholy passion, which excited Novatian and his party, thus to rend the body of Christ, to sow the seeds of discord, the fruits of which were so much deprecated by Cyprian, bishop of Carthage. I dare not call the origin of that branch of the church which has come down to us through the Waldenses, by means of the Novatian schism, a pure succession from the apostles." I believe the united testimony of ecclesiastical historians goes to say that although Novatian held fast the essential doctrines of Christianity, he formed his party without justifiable means, being actuated by a spirit of rivalry toward Cornelius, who was chosen in preference 26* 298 LIFE OF THE ;o Novatian to the office of a bishop on account of his dis- tinguished virtues. This gave offence to Novatian, who was a severe character, and carried his rigid notions ot church discipline so far as to refuse a readmission into the church of any persons who had fallen into sin, how- ever penitent they might be. These things being consi- dered, Mr. Garrettson had good reason to suspect the pure origin of that church which proceeded from the schism of Novatian. The history of those times, however, is of that character as to render it extremely difficult to form a cor- rect judgment respecting the true causes of the various sects which from time to time disturbed the tranquillity of the church. All who dissented from the main body were denominated schismatics or heretics, with what degree of justice and truth it is somewhat difficult to decide. After returning and remaining a few days at home, he took the steam boat for New- York. He her« bears a pointed testimony against the immorality recently intro- duced by an opposition line of steam boats, in starting on the Lord's day. " I fear," says he, " our sins will bring down the judgments of God upon us." Sunday the 25th, he observes, " I preached and had a precious sacramental season in Allen-street church, and in the evening the word was refreshing in the church at Greenwich. " My blessed God has been good to me for many years, for which I will praise him. I am now bending over eter- nity, and must soon go the way of all the earth. Not being able to walk about much, I am retired in the hospitable family of Mr. Suckley, and have a good time for self- examination, meditation, and prayer. I am under many and the strongest obligations to my heavenly Father, and am fully sensible that I have nothing in myself to recom- mend me to his favour. Mercy through the merits of Jesus Christ is my only plea. The aged as well as the young must continually say, * Every moment, Lord, I need the merit of thy death.' " In several places he has left upon REV. P. GAItRETTSON. 299 record sentiments similar to the above. It would appear, therefore, that he was endeavouring to weigh himself in the balance, to cast up his accounts, that he might be ready, when called, to render them up " with joy, and not with grief." He continued labouring in the several churches in the city and in Brooklyn, until August 10, when he setoff to attend a camp meeting on Long Island. f the wilderness ; neither riches nor poverty, ease nor REV. F. GARRETTSOX. 325 luxury; neither frowns nor smiles, could dampen the ardour of his zeal, or quench the thirst he had for the salvation of immortal souls. Wherever he came, in what- ever company, whether of the rich or the poor, in whatever climate, his theme was the same ; it was " Jesus and him crucified declaring to all that he was not " ashamed of the gospel of Christ." This was the soul and main spring of all his actions; that which set him in motion, and which kept him moving in the circle of obedience to what he considered, and what the effect of his labours proved to be, a Divine call. What else but a simple desire to do good to all men as he had opportunity, could have induced him to forsake all in early life, to persevere through " good and evil report," for upwards of fifty years, without fee or reward ? For it may be observed here, that Mr. Garrettson, during the whole course of his ministry, never received any pecuniary recompense, or if at some times, through the solicitation of his friends, he received any, it was given either to necessitous individuals, or deposited with the funds of the conference. In this manner the patrimony he inherited from his ancestors was all expended, and it has often been observed, that for this sacrifice, so nobly and freely offered upon the altar of benevolence, he was rewarded " a hun- dred fold, even in this life." And after he came into the possession of a larger estate by his happy marriage, I have frequently heard him say, that the entire income of his property, after meeting his annual expenses, was devoted to charitable purposes. In pursuing this course, and making these sacrifices, what else, I say, could have moved him forward so steadily, and for so long a time, but a single desire to promote the glory of God in the salvation of souls ? It was the same principle which inspired him with that spirit of liberality towards other denominations of Chris- tians by which he was characterized. Though Mr. Gar- 326 LIFE OF THE rettson was sincerely and concientiously attached to the church to which he belonged, firmly believed and faithfully defended its peculiarities, yet towards all others which he believed held fast the cardinal and distinguishing doc- trines of the gospel, he exercised a spirit of charity, loving the good of every name, and rejoicing in every thing evan- gelical he could discover among them. Hence his resi- dence was the resort of Christians and of Christian ministers of different denominations. While he could hold no fellowship with those who openly denied the proper Deity of Jesus Christ, and consequently set aside his atonement for the sins'of the world, most cordially he gave the right hand of fellowship to all who " loved the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity," and who believed and defended the grand cardinal truths of Christianity. How- ever much they might differ from him in points of minor importance, if they held fast these great doctrines of God our Saviour, he embraced them as his brethren in the Lord. Here was a full display of that " love which thinketh no evil." As a proof of the truth of these remarks, the following anecdote is related of Mr. Gar- rettson, at the time he visited Providence, in Rhode Island A member of Mr. Snow's church — Mr. Snow was either a Congregational or a Presbyterian minister — ex- pressed some anxiety to know whether Mr. Garrettson meant to establish a Methodist church in Providence. Mr. Garrettson replied to this effect : — " Be assured, sir, that if I do, I shall not admit you." " Why would you not receive me," said the gentleman; " have you heard any thing to my disparagement ?" " No, sir," said Mr. Garrettson ; " I have heard nothing which would not entitle you to an honourable standing in any church ; but you are under a spiritual minister. I would rather add to, than take from Mr. Snow's church; and were I to . aise a church in this place, they should be gathered from REV. F. GARRETTSON. 327 among those who were not privileged with such a minis- try, or those who would not avail themselves of the pri- vilege." It was this same principle which attached him so affec- tionately to his brethren in the ministry, as well as to all the members of the church. Though, as before said, he loved and honoured all ministers of Christ, of whatever name, he manifested a very peculiar attachment to the ministers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He never seemed so happy as when in their society. To those of them with whom he was intimate he would unbosom him- self without reserve. His house was the free resort of all who could visit him, and they were entertained with all the hospitality and simplicity of primitive times. To his house, his table, and his heart, they always found a hearty welcome. Many happy hours of social intercourse, and of Christian conversation, has the writer enjoyed under that peaceful roof, the mention of which brings to mind so many endearing recollections. This leads me to mention the manner in which this heavenly disposition displayed itself in domestic life. Here the beauty and excellence of religion shone in all its divine lustre and heavenly simplicity. I remember a few years since a conversation with a pious Presbyterian lady of the city of New- York, who was in habits of intimacy with Mrs. Garrettson, and who had recently returned from a visit, to the family at Rhinebeck. She was ex- pressing her great satisfaction at the admirable order which prevailed there ; " I do not mean," said she, " the order of the farm or of the house, though this is indeed worthy of all praise ; but I mean the religious order which prevails throughout every department ; the orderly arrange- ment for family devotions, and the orderly manner in which the servants, and all attached to the household, attend to their religious as well as to their other duties." This was saying nothing more than what was strictly true. God indeed 328 LIFE OF THE seemed abundantly to bless him in this respect. All about the farm, all his domestics, were moral, most of them reli- gious, and they were generally members of the Methodist church. The example continually set before them, taught them the utility, as well as the indispensible duty, of an orderly and regular attendance to all the duties of the sanc- tuary, as also to their private and family devotions. In this circle, therefore, God reigned. Here he " commanded his blessing, even life for evermore." Every thing here was " sanctified by the word of God and prayer." Reading a portion of the sacred Scriptures, singing some verses of a hymn, and prayer, formed the family devotions of the even- ing and morning, and then every one went orderly to his business. If company remained, they might either retire to a room, or enjoy the benefits of society in the house, or, particularly in the summer season, in the pleasant walks in the garden, or under the shade of a delightful bower, or the foliage of the forest trees with which the mansion was sur- rounded. Wherever they went on this enclosure, peace and contentment smiled around, and produced a charm unknown to thoughtless and dissipated minds. I am here reminded of a saying of the late lamented Bishop George. Speaking of Mr. Garrettson, he remarked, how agreeably disappointed he was in visiting him at his own house. Having only seen Mr. Garrettson occasion- ally at the general conference, and sometimes being under the necessity of differing from him on some points of ecclesiastical polity, the bishop had formed an idea that Mr. Garrettson was rather austere in his manners, and somewhat bigoted in his views ; " but," said the bishop, 11 when I had the happiness of visiting him under his own roof, and of observing the pious order of his household, the hospitality of his disposition, the kindness and attention with which he treated his friends and visiters, all my pre- judices were banished ; and I now think that the worth of brother Garrettson has not been duly estimated." REV. F. GARRETTSON. 329 What contributed much to his own comfort was the placability of his disposition, another inseparable compa- nion of that divine simplicity which predominated in his heart. That he had enemies was not his fault. No one should have been his enemy. Neither had such any cause to fear him, because he would not have hurt them even if he could. While he fulfilled the Divine command in loving his friends, he also inherited the blessing of those who bless and curse not, and who pray for those who despttefully use them. On how many heads he has thus heaped " coals of fire," and by the influence of this love melted them into tenderness, and made them his friends, " that day" alone can declare ; but I have heard it remarked, that if you wanted to obtain a special favour from Mr. Garrettson, you must do him some injury, for he was sure to repay it by an act of kindness. Not that he was insensible to injuries and insults. He felt them, and felt them keenly ; but he well understood the difference between feeling an insult, and manifesting a suitable indignation at the conduct of the malevolent, and suffering the passion of revenge to linger in his bosom. While he wept over the miseries of the wick- ed, and commiserated the condition of those who might be actuated by private malice, or personal hostility, he bore them before the throne of grace in prayer, evincing the ten- derest love to their persons, and the sincerest desire for the salvation of their souls. He thus exemplified the spirit which actuated his Divine Master, when he prayed, " Fa- ther, forgive them, for they know not what they do." I have known him take special pains to conciliate the good will of persons whom he feared he had wounded merely because he conscientiously differed from them in opinion, lest they might harbour the thought that he entertained unkind feelings toward them. He could, indeed, be reconciled to any thing but sin, and those dangerous errors which struck at the fundamental doctrines of Christ To these enemies of God and man he showed no mercy, 29 330 LIFE OF THE To the same ardent thirst for the salvation of lost men may be attributed his zealous co-operation in all our bene- volent institutions. He lived to see that divine principle which thrust him out into his Lord's vineyard in the midst of obloquy and reproach, when the true disciples of Jesus were " as a speckled bird, and the birds round about" were against them, enlarged into an expansive benevolence ; and so mightily had the word of God increased, and the number of disciples multiplied, that institutions of charity were springing up in every direction, to bless the world with an increase of light and knowledge. Mr. Garrettson watched the rise and progress of these institutions with strong and increasing interest. He aided their operations by contributing to their funds. To the American Bible Society he became a life mem- ber. He assisted as one of the founders of the Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, became first an annual contributor, afterwards a life member, and often stimulated others to become its supporters. To the Tract and Sunday School Societies he was a warm friend and faithful patron. And if at any time he did not answer the expectations of some in the frequency and the amount of his donations, it was because they knew not the multitude of calls which were made upon his bounty, nor the urgency with which they were pressed upon his attention. It being generally believed that he was rich in this world's goods, and well known that he was a friend to suffering humanity, all were ready to turn their attention to him for aid ; and hence had he given according to each one's expectation, he would very, soon have been a pauper himself, and thus been deprived of the means of <( scattering abroad" the charities of a liberal mind. That he endeavoured conscientiously to "use his Lord's money," and to make to himself " friends of the mammon of un- righteousness," none will dispute who were acquainted with his manner of life. REV. F. GARRETTSON. 331 If we view Mr. Garrettson as a minister of the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall behold the same disposition dis- playing itself on all occasions. Indeed so habitual was the impression on the minds of all with whom he was acquainted, of his deep sincerity, of the simple desire of his heart to ascertain and promulgate the truth as it is in Jesus, that however some might differ from him in his views, they could hardly resist the conviction which the force of this principle made on their hearts. And if it be the chief business of a minister of the sanctuary to carry a conviction to the hearts of sinners of the truths of the gospel*, and to awaken within them a serious concern respecting the solemn realities of eternity ; if the object of his mission be to point those " that mourn in Zion" to the " Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world ;' 5 if he should not cease his exhortations until he lead the penitent sinner to the blood of atonement, " which cleans- eth from all unrighteousness," and until he so believe as to receive the witness in himself that he is born of God; if the end of his commission is to build up believers " in their most holy faith," and never let them rest until they are filled with the perfect love of God; if to accomplish these objects be the principal aim of the minister, then we may pronounce the Rev. Freeborn Garrettson to have been a true minister of Jesus Christ. If it be the duty of a minister commissioned of God to " go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature," as far as his strength and opportunities will permit; and if in doing this he is to give evidence of his call to the work by preaching with all that zeal and pathos which distin- guish men influenced by the Spirit of God, and having the worth of souls pressing upon their hearts ; then did the subject of this memoir discharge his duty, and give the most substantial evidence of his Divine call to this holy and important work. His labour and diligence were great, and his success in winning souls to Christ was in propor- LIFE OF THE tion. Wherever he went he left the impressions of truth behind him. Sinners were made to feel their awful respon- sibility to God, while His people felt the " holy anointing,'* and often " shouted aloud for joy." He held on his way. Whatever impediments were thrown in his path, they did not stop his progress. Having fixed his " single eye" on the "prize of his high calling'' at the outset, he pursued it to the end of life. We have seen him renouncing ease, affluence, all those enjoyments which domestic felicity might afford, for the sake of win- ning souls to Christ. The church, — the welfare of the church, — occupied his private meditations and engaged his public labours. And he lived to see that church to which he belonged, and whose interests were identified with his own, increase from 3,148, the number in mem- bership when he commenced his youthful and successful career in 1775, to 381,997, the number returned on the Minutes in 1827, the year in which he died; and the number of travelling preachers increase from 19 to 1,576. Well might he say, as he did in his Semi-centennial Ser- mon, " We shall hear of spiritual fathers and of their spiritual children blessing and praising God that they were ever sent out to traverse the mountains and valleys to call sinners to repentance." How many will rise up in that day and call him blessed, He only who numbers the hairs of our heads can tell. But that which gave such efficiency to his labour in the gospel, was the " unction of the Holy One," which rested upon him. No man, I believe, was more deeply sensible of the indispensibleness of the Holy Spirit to enable the minister of Christ to succeed in his work, than Mr. Gar- rettson. Deriving all his doctrine and precepts from the pure fountain of Divine truth, the Holy Scriptures, he made these his daily study ; and being deeply conscious that he must have the enlightening and sanctifying influ- ences of the Holy Spirit, to enable him rightly to under REV. F. GARRETTSON. 333 stand and apply these truths, he was assiduous in his addresses to the throne of grace, firmly believing that God would " give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him." The success, therefore, which accompanied his public labours, is not attributable to the force of human persuasion, or to the " words of man's wisdom," but to the " demonstration of the Spirit," which accompanied his word. Thus armed with the " sword of the Spirit," his word was " mighty, through God, to the pulling down of strong holds." His action in the pulpit was not generally graceful, nor could he be pronounced eloquent, according to the usual definition of that word. On some occasions, however, he seemed inspired with an eloquence far surpassing all human attainments, when his words were accompanied with a gesticulation appropriate and striking, and which bespoke a soul filled n with glory and with God." On these occa- sions the congregation would be overwhelmed with a sense of the Divine presence, while tears and groans, prayer and praise, would sufficiently attest the power with which he spoke. There was great variety in his preaching, both as to the - mariner and matter, which made his discourses always both entertaining and useful ; and I believe he seldom wearied an audience with a dry detail of uninteresting matter, or with speculations which did not profit the hearer. His was the preaching of a man aiming to be useful, aspiring to be good instead of great, penetrating by the arrows of truth into the sinner's heart, and pouring the balm of consolation into the " wounded spirit." It was deep, experimental, and practical. Such was the character of the Rev. Freeborn Garrett' son. And if his name be not handed down to posterity as one of the greatest ministers with which the Methodist Episcopal Church has been favoured, he will unquestion- ably be ranked among the best, the most devoted, and the most successful. 334 LIFE OF THE Perhaps it might be expected that I should mention his imperfections and faults. That he was in every respect perfect, who will contend ? But whatever defects he may have had, they were such as are inseparable from man, defects of the head and not of the heart ; natural, not moral. Were I to attempt to describe a perfect character, one that was free from the infirmities of human nature, I *5 should not only render myself ridiculous, but prove myself destitute of that very virtue which was so estimable, and which shone so conspicuously in Mr. Garrettson, — I mean " godly simplicity and sincerity." " To err is human." And that Mr. Garrettson was liable to err from the natural imperfection of his judgment, and therefore might have often been under mistakes in his estimation of men and things, needs neither an apology to admit, nor any false colouring to hide. This is common to men, — to the best of men. When therefore it is said that such a man had his infirmities, that he exhibited foibles, made mistakes, and erred in his judgment, we do but describe what is common to man, and say nothing to distinguish one human being from another. These sad marks of our original apostasy cleave alike to all, the wise and the unwise, the learned and the ignorant. But when we say of a man that, in the midst of these natural infirmi- ties, with a thousand temptations from without to entice him from the path of obedience to his God, he held on his way, — that he triumphed over sin and Satan, — that he uniformly maintained an unspotted character, — that he lived and died in the fear and favour of God, — we describe a man that rose far above the efforts of human nature, — we behold a man in whom " dwelt the Spirit of the Holy One," and in whom is " magnified the grace of God." It is of such a one that I now speak. Human nature, however improved by education and reflection, is not competent to gain a victory over evil propensities, to subdue sinful habits and passions; but when renewed by REV. F. GARRETTSON. 335 the grace of God in Christ Jesus, it shines, — it triumphs, — and vanquishes every enemy to its peace and happiness. For such a perfection, therefore, as exempts men from these inseparable infirmities of our nature, we plead not. But this I think I may affirm without any fear of contra- diction, that among all the ministers of Jesus Christ during the period in which he lived, none maintained a more unblemished reputation, was more deeply and sincerely devoted to God, more successful in extending the Re- deemer's kingdom among men, or more perfectly an- swered the end for which the Christian ministry was instituted. From the time of his conversion to God, in the 23d year of his age, until his death, in the 76th year of his age, under the protection of " the everlasting arms," the purity of his life, and the uprightness of his deport- ment, were never questioned, but acknowledged by all with whom he had intercourse ; and for upwards of fifty- one years he appeared before the public as an ambassador of the Lord Jesus Christ, during which time the words of his lips gained the more credence from the unimpaired confidence which every one had in the integrity of his heart and the righteousness of his life. And when he sunk into the grave, he was the oldest travelling minister of that church, whose general economy he loved, whose doctrines he believed and preached, whose God and Saviour he adored, and served in " the fellowship of the gospel," and whose ramparts he left, after having defended them for more than fifty years, to take his seat in " that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, whose builder and maker is God." Finally, in contemplating his character, we may take the text on which he so often delighted to preach, and which was selected as the foundation of his funeral dis- course, and say, " Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright, for the end of that man is peace." THE END. • Date Due ill *9 i r "J /~ " ^ i Hr 1 c "55 i i