1777

1777¹

REV. AND DEAR SIR,—You have the Narrative of the Rev. Mr. Jarratt. I send this as a supplement to it.

At our little conference, held in Philadelphia May, 1775, Mr. Shadford was appointed assistant for Brunswick circuit, in Virginia. He found there about eight hundred joined together, but in a very confused manner. Many of them did not understand the nature of meeting in class; and many of the classes had no leader. He resolved to begin in good earnest, and the preachers with him were like-minded. Their constant custom was, as soon as preaching was over, to speak to all the members of the society, one by one. If the society was large, one preacher spoke to a part, and he that came next, to the rest. By this means they learned more of our doctrine and discipline in a year, than in double the time before. The fruit soon appeared: the congregations swiftly increased, and many were pricked to the heart. Many that were a little affected, desired to see the nature of meeting in class; and while one was speaking either to those that were groaning for redemption, or those who had found peace with God, these were frequently cut to the heart, and sometimes enabled on the spot to praise a pardoning God, Nay, sometimes four, five, or six found peace with God, before the meeting was over.

The work of God thus increasing on every side, more preachers were soon wanting. And God raised up several young men, who were exceeding useful as local preachers.

After Mr. Shadford had been about eight months in the circuit, Mr. Jarratt desired his parish might be included in it; that all who chose it might have the privilege of meeting in class, and being members of the society. He soon saw the salutary effects. Many that had but small desires before, began to be much alarmed, and laboured earnestly after eternal life. In a little time numbers were deeply awakened, and many tasted of the pardoning love of God. In a few months Mr. Jarratt saw more fruit of his labours than he had done for many years. And he went on with the preachers hand in hand, both in doctrine and discipline. When Mr. Shadford took an account of the societies, before he came to the conference in 1776, they contained two thousand six hundred and sixty-four persons: to whom eighteen hundred were added in one year. Above a thousand of these had found peace with God; many of whom thirsted for all the mind that was in Christ. And divers believed God had “circumcised their heart, to love him with all their heart, and with all their soul.” This revival of religion spread through fourteen counties in Virginia; and through Bute and Halifax counties in North Carolina. At the same time we had a blessed outpouring of the Spirit in several counties bordering upon Maryland.

Our conference was at Baltimore Town, on the 22d of May. Here I received a letter from Mr. Jarratt, part of which I insert.

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My soul has had to wrestle with principalities and powers; but by the grace of God, in obstinately resisting the tempter, I have come off more than conqueror, and am now in peace. I was enabled to speak plainly and closely at Mr. Gough’s.

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After preaching and meeting the society, I think the people were left more in earnest for the salvation of their souls than they were before. On Monday the Lord was the portion and comfort of my soul; and I enjoyed a very agreeable and happy season with the little flock at William Watters’.

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The camp fever now rages much; of which several have died.

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I have met with a few faithful, happy souls, both yesterday at Susquehanna, and to-day at Edward White’s (?). My own soul lives constantly as in the presence of God, and enjoys much of his divine favour. His love is better than life!

“My Jesus to know,

And feel his blood flow,

‘Tis life everlasting, ‘tis heaven below.”

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There was but little appearance of feeling while I preached in the day from John 1:14; but my soul was much blessed in the evening at William Evett’s, and it was a solemn time amongst the people.

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We have constant rumours about the disagreeable war which is now spreading through the country;¹ but all these things I still commit to God. Matters of greater perpetuity call for the exertion of my mental powers. My soul is in a tranquil frame, but thirsting for more of God. After preaching at Samuel Litton’s, I met the society, which seemed but slow in their spiritual progress. Both the audience and myself were much more engaged the next day at Joseph Presbury’s.

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A certain person passed great encomiums, and sounded my praise as a preacher to my face. But this is a dangerous practice; for it is easier for a preacher to think too much of his gifts, than too little. St. Paul, describing the true Israelite, saith: “whose praise is not of men, but of God.”

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I have heard much of many attending on the Lord’s days to hear Thomas Chase, but for my part I see but little fruit. My heart was warmly engaged to-day at Mr. Samuel Forwood’s (?); and as some preachers met me in the evening, we held a watch night at Henry Watters’s. There was a great number of people, and it was a solemn, profitable time.

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In preaching at Nathan Perigau’s, from Zephaniah 1:12, I was particularly led, in the close of the sermon, to address the younger part of the congregation, in such a manner as greatly affected the parents who were present.

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It is now a time of great and spreading sickness—but in this very time, the Lord keeps me in health and safety; for which my heart is drawn out in grateful acknowledgments. There were more people than could have been expected, to hear the word at Mrs. Presbury’s.

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A messenger from Mr. Gough’s met me at the widow Bond’s, informing me that Mr. Rodda and Mr. George Shadford were there waiting to see me.¹ After preaching I set out, and met my brethren the same night, and found them inclined to leave America, and embark for England. But I had before resolved not to depart from the work on any consideration. After some consultation it was thought best that Mr. Rodda should go to Mr. Rankin, and request his attendance here. On Thursday brother Shadford preached a very argumentative and melting sermon. I intended to have gone forward on my circuit, but was prevented by the rain.

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My heart has checked me for not being more watchful in company and conversation: but to-day my soul was greatly drawn out after God. How often do we grieve the Holy Spirit, and deprive ourselves of divine consolations, by not steadily attending to the duties of watching and prayer. Lord, help me to be more attentive, and more faithful!

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After lecturing in Mr. Gough’s family I rode to the Forks, and preached there; then through rain, and cold, and dirt, to meet the congregation at Mr. Colgate’s (?);¹ and afterward returned to Mr. Gough’s, and lectured in the evening. And the Lord was with me, to support and comfort me through all the exercises of the day.

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My spirit was assaulted by Satan, and felt itself in a heavy frame; but in the Lord I have help. As brother George Shadford is willing to take this circuit for the present,¹ my intention is to move towards Annapolis and its adjacent parts. May Divine Providence direct my steps! I have had an agreeable conversation with my friend Mr. Otterbein.

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I was moved to speak in alarming terms at William Lynch’s; but am not yet so steadily and spiritually devoted to God as my soul earnestly desires to be. Probably the Lord will be pleased to make me perfect through sufferings. But, “our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is not worthy to be compared with that glory which shall be revealed in us,” if faithful to the grace of God.

“Who suffer with our Master here,

We shall before his face appear,

And by his side sit down;

To patient faith the prize is sure;

And all that to the end endure

The cross, shall wear the crown.”

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My soul is determined to labour more for the spirit of devotion. I found myself at liberty in preaching at Fell’s Point, on “Casting all your care upon him, for he careth for you.”

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The audience at Fell’s Point were cold and unaffected And at town (Baltimore) on Monday evening, they were dispersed by the alarm of fire in the time of preaching.

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After a season of temptations and spiritual exercises, I found my mind disburdened, and a holy, awful nearness to God. On Thursday I set out for Reisterstown, in order to meet brother George Shadford, and calling in at Mr. Warfield’s (?), where brother King was then speaking, I also spoke a few words, and found my soul refreshed. I met with brother George Shadford the next day, and saw an affecting letter from Mrs. Mary Thorne of Philadelphia, in which, after she had given some account of the abounding wickedness of that city, she informed us of the declension of a few religious persons, of the fidelity of others, of the camp fever that was then prevailing there, and that many died thereof—sometimes twenty, thirty, and even forty in a day. An awful account indeed! So it seems as if the Lord intends to bring us to our proper reflections and duties by the sword, the pestilence, and famine. Alas! who can stand before the displeasure of the Almighty! How much better would it be, for men to please God, and live in love to him and one another, that they might partake of his blessing, instead of his curse! Lord, grant thy people wisdom and protection in all times of danger!

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I went to the quarterly meeting¹ and met with brother Rodda and brother Rankin. In our love feast several people were happy, but my mind was under a cloud and some severe exercises. However, I earnestly desire an increase of patience, and communion with God. O my Lord, scatter every cloud, and cause they face to shine with beams of divine love upon my soul!

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Mr. Rankin went to Baltimore; and on Friday, I felt a desire to be labouring for the salvation of souls. I cannot be idle, but must be occupied till my Lord shall come. O happy day, when the weary shall be at rest! Lord, hasten thy work in me, and then hasten thy coming to judgment, or by death!

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I have been reading some of both Greek and Hebrew:¹ but my soul longeth to feel more deadness to everything but God, and an increase of spiritual light, life, and love. I now parted with dear brother George Shadford. On the Lord’s day I found freedom and warmth in preaching to a larger congregation than could have been expected, at the widow M.’s.

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Rode to Mrs. Rogers’ [?]; and was grievously troubled with inward temptations. O! when shall I rest with my Jesus in eternal glory? Lord, I am oppressed; undertake for me!

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It was a cold winter’s day, but I rode twenty-three miles to Mr. Gough’s, and found one had been brought to God since my departure the last time. Several seemed to melt while I was discoursing on the vision of the dry bones.

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The weather was exceedingly severe, and I had twenty-five miles to ride; which almost benumbed both body and soul. But my mind was so exercised by the way, with various and heavy temptations, and such a deep sense of my demerit and unprofitableness, that I thought my suffering was much less than my desert. Satan frequently assaults me on every side, and with every species of temptations. Surely it is through great tribulation we must enter into the kingdom of God. The righteous have great cause to rejoice that a rest remaineth for them.

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The burden of my ardent desire was, to be more assimilated to my spiritual Head, and to be more abundantly devoted, both day and night, to the pure and uninterrupted service of my God. “I would be thine, thou know’st I would,

And have thee all my own;

Thee, O my all-sufficient good,

I want, and thee alone.”

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After riding twenty miles to John Worthington’s, I spoke from these words, “How long halt ye between two opinions?” Many of the people displayed, by their looks, the carelessness of their hearts; but a few from among them have been brought to Christ, and some more are coming. On Tuesday we had severe weather, with a cold and dirty house; but my soul was much blessed in my little sufferings. On Wednesday, I was kindly entertained by old Mr. M. and his wife: though a troublesome little Irishman seemed much inclined to altercation. But as Solomon says, “A soft answer turneth away wrath;” so by coolness and meekness, the ferocity of his temper was in a great degree subdued. I have had some doubts of late, whether I am in my proper route to bring souls to God; however, the event must make it manifest.

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My heart was unfettered and quite happy in God, while publishing glad tidings to poor sinners at Mr. Hammond’s [?], from Acts 13:38, 39. I had appointed the next day to enter Annapolis, but a great snow prevented me. Meeting with brother Hartley,¹ who was about to enter upon the circuit, we took some sweet counsel together relative to the work of God; and I gave him a plan which comprehended the greater part of the circuit, reserving for myself Annapolis and a few places adjacent,² My soul is now kept in peace and love.

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Though the weather was very cold, several members of the convention attended to hear the word at the widow Dorsey’s; and I afterward preached in the play house,¹ now converted into a church. In the beginning of the ensuing week, I was requested to preach in the assembly room, but some of the members opposed it; so I returned to the play house, and found my ideas contracted while preaching to a deistical audience, from Romans 8:7, 8. Lord, if thou hast called me to preach to these souls, grant me divine assistance! But how difficult it is to declare the plain truth to ungodly and sensual men in such a manner as not to be dismayed at their countenance! Our sufficiency is of God.

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I had some hope for a poor, ignorant people at Broad Neck, on the other side of the Severn.¹ My clothes were wet through, in riding twenty miles the next day to Mr. Perigau’s; but I received no injury. Here I met with Mr. Otterbein and Wm. Moore, and my soul was blessed with delightful communion with God.

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Preached at Mr. Wilkins’: and on Monday my heart was inflamed with divine love, and the people were much melted, while I was discoursing at Mr. Ridgely’s (?)¹ from Amos 5:6, though my soul had been bowed down by the weight of temptations; and, by the grace of God, I was ashamed before him, being base, unworthy, and contemptible in my own eyes. May the grace which thus abases me, in due time exalt me, and bring me to glory!

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I met with a dull congregation at Mr. G.’s,¹ and went home with Mr. T., who appeared to be the only thoughtful man amongst them. I was much indisposed on Wednesday, and on my way to Annapolis, stopped at Mr. Miller’s, where a certain Mr. R. was taken sick; after I had conversed with him about his soul and the things of eternity, his conduct proved that God hath a witness for himself in every breast, for, awaking in the night, he uttered expressive groans, and called upon the name of the Lord. But alas! when men should attend to the voice of divine grace, which speaketh in silence, though frequently with great power, to every conscience, they shake off the disagreeable sensation, and plunge into business and sensual pleasures: and when death comes they plunge into hell. Thus it was with the rich man mentioned by our Lord in the parable: and thus it is with many every day. Unhappy creatures! How rich, how honourable, how easy, how happy once, avails them nothing there! There they must dwell in eternal poverty and nakedness, exposed to the beating storms of the Divine displeasure. Then how much better is it, to choose affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasure of sin for a season!

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At William McCubbin’s (?)¹ many were much wrought upon by the Spirit of God, under the word: Alice Woodward especially was so deeply affected, that she had scarce power to contain herself. I saw a fresh proof that the life of man is quite uncertain: a tobacco house was blown down and killed a Negro man.

My heart was deeply engaged in prayer, especially for the inhabitants of Annapolis. My confidence in God was so great, that I could trust him with my body and soul, and all my little concerns. He makes me a partaker of his spiritual kingdom—righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

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My natural timidity depressed my mind at the thought of preaching in Annapolis, where many people openly deny the Holy Scriptures, as well as the power of inward religion. But the Lord inspired me with a degree of evangelical courage; and I felt a determination to adhere to the truth, and follow Jesus Christ, if it should be even to prison or to death.

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Preaching in a private house in Annapolis, I found my spirit at liberty in a good degree. May the God of Daniel stand by me, that I may never be ashamed to preach the pure gospel, or even afraid to suffer for it!

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After preaching at the widow Dorsey’s, I rode back to Mr. Hammond’s, and was not very agreeably entertained by a company of gay, worldly people. And as they must either imbibe something of my spirit, or I something of theirs, if we were long together, I thought it most expedient to depart in peace as soon as it was convenient; and was much assisted and comforted in preaching from Acts 17:30, 31; but felt myself weary and unwell at the close of the day.

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Preaching when the house of assembly was adjourned, many of them came to hear for themselves. The Lord was with me, and I found my heart melted and expanded with love to the souls of the people. But by imprudently venturing out when warmed by preaching, I have brought on a sore throat. On Tuesday I went to get a sight of the poor prisoners, but could not obtain admittance. At Broad Creek on Wednesday, there was a large company of wild and ignorant mortals, who, after preaching, were communicating their thoughts to each other: some said they did not like the doctrine; others said it was the truth—the very truth.¹

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I rode to Major Thomas Rawling’s, who treated me with great kindness, and seemed desirous of knowing the truth: but the spirit of the times has engrossed too much of his attention. Our Lord has told us that some, “when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares, and riches, and pleasures of this life.” (Luke 8:14.) No doubt but this description comprehends a vast multitude of mankind: they do not consider religion as the one thing needful.

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By the providence of God, my throat was no worse, but my mind was under some dejection. However, we had a powerful and profitable watch night at Mr. P.’s. And on Friday there were many attentive people at Mr. R.’s.

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As sure as we draw nigh to God in sincerity, he will draw nigh to us. I have given myself to private prayer seven times a day, and found my heart much drawn out in behalf of the preachers, the societies, especially the new places, and my aged parents. And while thus exercised, my soul has been both quickened and purified. Let the glory be given to God! But alas! after all, my heart is not so filled with generous gratitude as it should be!

“Eternal are thy mercies, Lord;

Eternal truth attends thy word;

Thy praise shall sound from shore to shore,

Till suns shall rise and set no more.”

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My mind was delightfully fixed on God. A few people, who in dulness and religious stupidity exceeded all I had ever seen, came to hear me to-day. But would they sincerely seek after God, they should find the way to heaven; for the prophet saith, “A fool shall not err therein.”

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I have been variously exercised with the carelessness of the people, and the troubles of the times; though my soul has had intimate access to God. I received a letter from brother Shadford, intimating that, according to rule, the time was drawing near for us to return. But St. Paul’s rule is, that our spiritual children should be in our hearts, to live and die with them. (2 Corinthians 7:3.) Then, doubtless, we should be willing to suffer affliction with them. May the Lord give me wisdom sufficient to direct me in this and every intricate case!

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The congregation was large at Mr. Dorsey’s (?),¹ and some of them felt the power of the word: though in the afternoon, at a school house near Annapolis, there was very little appearance of spiritual feeling. On Monday I was under some exercise of mind in respect to the times: my brethren are inclined to leave the continent, and I do not know but something may be propounded to me which would touch my conscience; but my determination is to trust in God, and be satisfied if the souls of my fellow-men are saved. A genteel woman met me to-day on the road to John Hesselius’s,² and asked me if I should not preach in town; but I had not the presence of mind to tell her I had no place there to preach in.

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Having received information that some of my brethren had determined on their departure, I wrote to brother Shadford, that as long as I could stay and preach without injuring my conscience, it appeared as my duty to abide with the flock. But I must confess Satan has harassed me with violent and various temptations. However, my dependence is on the Lord, that he will always enable me to do what is right in the sight of God and man. I had about twenty-two miles to ride to-day, and to call by the way to preach: though both hungry and weary, yet my soul was much blessed in dispensing the word.

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My soul had peace, and my body had rest: but Satan was still at hand. We had a comfortable watch night at Mr. P.’s. On Friday my heart was dissolved into tenderness while preaching at Mr. R.’s.

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Mr. M. gave me an awful account of a man struck instantly dead at Deer Creek. The very relation of his crime is enough to make a man shudder—he had been cursing the Holy Spirit. This is a striking proof that God is not an inattentive spectator of the actions of men, though most men live as if they thought he were. No: “for God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:14.) Much temptation has urged me to much prayer: so that I have lately retired as often as ten or twelve times a day to call upon my God. When the tempter finds that his violent assaults only drive us nearer to God, perhaps he will not be so maliciously officious.

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Satan seemed determined, if possible, to distract, if he could not destroy me—even blasphemous thoughts have been darted into my imagination. But I know where my help is to be found. Let our imaginations be ever so horrid, and haunt us ever so frequently, provided we hate them, and constantly resist them, they are not imputed to us; but we may still rejoice in God in the midst of them all. “It is enough for the servant to be as his Lord, who was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” Glory to God, he hath promised that “we shall not be tempted above that we are able,” (though sometimes it may be to the extent of our ability,) “but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that we may be able to bear it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13.) I have now read Newton on the Prophecies three times over.¹

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There was a large company of wild-looking people at Mr. Gray’s, on the fork of Patuxent river.¹ And there was much such a congregation the next day at Mr. Childs’.²

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My soul was much refreshed in speaking to the people at C.B.’s: and on Friday I met with Mr. Hanson,¹ and received a letter from Mr. Rankin; in which, after he had given me an account of the circuits and societies, he assigned his reasons for not travelling much for about the space of two months past.

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After preaching at Mr. D.’s, I found much freedom in preaching to a large company at Annapolis: and had an invitation to go into Worcester county.¹

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This was a day of rest to my fatigued frame, and of consolation to my immortal part. On Tuesday there was great decency in the congregation at Annapolis; though Satan, by his emissaries, had raised an opposition. But Israel’s God is above them all.

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God was with us, and the people were happy at Mr. M.’s. On my way I called and dined with Mr. R., who gave great attention to my explanatory and pointed conversation on the new birth. Riding after preaching to R.P.’s, my chaise was shot through; but the Lord preserved my person. The war is now at such a height, that they are pressing men for the sea service.

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One of our Society died of a disorder in the throat and lungs, with only one day’s illness. Such is the precarious tenure of life! But “blessed are they that die in the Lord!” May I always have my loins girded about, and my light burning, waiting for the will of my Lord! God has displayed great wisdom and goodness in hiding future events from man; that we may live without that painful anxiety which we should be apt to feel if we knew the hour of our death, and that we may be always ready to meet the unknown period.

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My soul was much blessed at Richard Sewell’s, in preaching from the Divine expostulation, “Why will ye die?” Mr. Josias Dallam invited me to lodge at his house, and treated me with great kindness.

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After preaching at Mr. Warfield’s [?], I rode about twenty miles to lodge with a friend; but seeing a boy ploughing by the road-side, my conscience smote me for breaking the Sabbath, by riding when there was no real necessity for it.

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My heart was comforted in the company of an old friend:¹ but on Tuesday Satan raged against my soul as if he would immediately destroy it; but my divine Protector is too strong for him. The Lord visited and blessed my soul in the evening, while I was describing the faithful and wise servant.

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I found myself very unwell on my going to Thomas Webb’s; but my spirit was at liberty in preaching. Though still unwell I rode twenty miles to John Worthington’s on Thursday, and was blessed with a tranquil mind by the way. Satan cast several infernal darts at my soul; but I was enabled to repel them by the shield of faith, and the power of prayer.

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A very genteel, polite company assembled at Annapolis; and though I spoke with great plainness, they bore it well.

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After meeting the congregation at the widow Elizabeth Brown Dorsey’s, I found a large company at Annapolis, who gave good attention to me, but I fear they were not disposed to give their hearts to God. My mind has been grieved at some who call themselves friends to religion and to the Methodists. But alas! how blind and ignorant is the unchanged mind of man! How little does he consider what will please or displease his Maker! I still desire to have every action, word, thought, and desire, entirely devoted to God. Lord, hasten the much wished for hour! “Thou, my life, my treasure be,

My portion here below!

Nothing would I seek but thee,

Thee only would I know.”

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About two hundred careless-looking people came to hear the word at Pig Point:¹ they seemed entire strangers to such a doctrine; so some laughed and others wept. I rode fifty miles in going and coming to preach that sermon; but hope it was not altogether labour lost.

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At Mr. R.’s I spoke closely and pointedly for the last time during this visit; then rode through the rain and darkness to Mr. Webb’s (?), and felt my heart sweetly melted with gratitude and thanksgiving to God. On Monday, I went to Shadrach Turner’s,¹ and met my brethren at the Frederick quarterly meeting; where we were favoured with the Divine blessing.

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A letter came to hand from Mr. Jarratt, which gave us hopes that there would be another revival in Virginia. He also advised us to take no immature steps, which might have a tendency to alter our plan. After preaching the next day at Richard Sewell’s, T.D. invited me to his house. I found that he and his wife were seeking to be justified by the deeds of the law, and I laboured with undissembled freedom to convince them of their error; but it appeared to be labour in vain.

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At Annapolis the congregation was small, and so was my power to preach. My soul has been kept in a calm and comfortable frame, but panting for more constant fervour towards God.

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Many attended at the widow Elizabeth Brown Dorsey’s, to hear what I would say on my departure. I spoke from Acts 13:46; and many seemed much affected. The congregation was also large at Annapolis; where I spoke in plain terms to the rich and the gay, on our Lord’s awful account of the rich man and Lazarus. They behaved well; and some were desirous to know if I intended to come again.

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Set out for our yearly conference, and having preached at Mr. Perigau’s (?), by the way, came safe to Mr. Gough’s, and was glad to see the preachers who were there.¹ We had some weighty conversation on different points: and among other things, it was asked whether we could give our consent that Mr. Rankin should baptize, as there appeared to be a present necessity. But it was objected that this would be a breach of our discipline; and it was not probable that things would continue long in such a disordered state. The next day, with great harmony and joint consent, we drew a rough draught for stationing the preachers the ensuring year. And on Friday we conversed on the propriety of signing certificates avouching good conduct for such of the preachers as chose to go to Europe. But I could not see the propriety of it at this time. We also conversed on such rules as might be proper for the regulation of the preachers who abide on the continent. And it was judged necessary that a committee should be appointed to superintend the whole. And on Monday we rode together to attend the conference at Deer Creek.²

So greatly has the Lord increased the number of travelling preachers within these few years, that we have now twenty-seven who attend the circuits, and twenty of them were present at this conference. Both our public and private business was conducted with great harmony, peace, and love. Our brethren who intend to return to Europe, have agreed to stay till the way is quite open. I preached on the charge which our Lord gave his apostles: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” Our conference ended with a love feast and watch night. But when the time of parting came, many wept as if they had lost their first-born sons. They appeared to be in the deepest distress, thinking, as I suppose, they should not see the faces of the English preachers any more. This was such a parting as I never saw before. Our conference has been a great time—a season of uncommon affection. And we must acknowledge that God has directed, owned, and blessed us in the work. A certificate, as mentioned above, had been acceded to, and signed in the conference.

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My soul was quickened in preaching at the Bush chapel;¹ I lodged at Mr. Dallam’s; and the next day collected my writings and letters, in order to preserve them. On Tuesday went to Mr. Gough’s; and on Wednesday began to read regularly Mr. Wesley’s Notes.²

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We had a profitable meeting at Gunpowder Neck. And on Friday I returned to preach at Mr. Gough’s; where we had a small, but warm congregation.

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The Spirit of grace was with me: but I long for a more active life; to be constantly employed in bringing souls to God.

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The Lord enlarged my heart, and opened a door of utterance, while preaching to a numerous congregation at the Forks; and there were some among them who had for a long time been detained by prejudice from hearing us. But I could not find the same liberty at Mr. Gough’s, in the latter part of the day.

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“As the hart panteth after the water-brooks, so panteth my soul after God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God;” though I have been at times sorely beset by temptations. But shall I ever yield to the tempter, and sin against my Lord? No: in the strength of Jesus, no!

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Having been ten days off and on at Mr. Gough’s, I set out to-day for John Colgate’s; and preached by the way at Phineas Hunt’s. On Friday I laid aside my wig, and began to use the cold bath for my health: and rode as far as Mrs. Ridgely’s, who was a mother in Israel, and both a friend and mother to me. After many heavy trials my soul was comforted, but earnestly desirous of more purity and fellowship with God.

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Some seemed to feel the weight of Divine truths at Reisterstown; and on the Lord’s day, my heart was melted and expanded towards the people at Brother Colgate’s.

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I met brother George Shadford at Mr. Colgate’s, and preached on Acts 16:30, 31; then called to see a sick person, and returned to brother Colgate’s.

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I preached in town (Baltimore) on these affecting words, “How shall I give thee up, Ephraim?” And on Thursday, entering my circuit at Mr. P.’s, we had a heart-affecting season, and a few joined the society.

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We had great harmony and love in our increasing society at R.’s.

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There was a large, attentive audience in a school house on Elkridge; where I preached with usual energy and affection, on Amos 4:11, and hope the time of favouring the souls of both rich and poor is now approaching. But after so great a blessing, Satan, as if moved with envy, attempted to wound me with his fiery darts. This was probably permitted by my gracious Lord, lest I should be exalted above measure. Brother George Shadford came to accompany me into Virginia, to fetch our clothing and books.

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We set out and rode to Shadrach Turner’s, where we received this strange relation: “A person in the form of a man came to the house of another in the night; the man of the house asked what he wanted. He replied, ‘This will be the bloodiest year that ever was known.’ The other asked how he knew. His answer was, ‘It is as true as your wife is now dead in her bed.’ He went back and found his wife dead. But the stranger disappeared.”

VIRGINIA

On Monday, we went to brother Adam’s;¹ and on Wednesday to Bryan Fairfax’s,² a kind man, but his ideas of religion were confused. Thursday, we rode to Leesburg,³ and found that brother Bealle had just departed from this world of trouble and danger. My spirit was much drawn out towards God and the souls of the people, while preaching on Matthew 24:45, &c.

MARYLAND

Tuesday we went on to Frederick, where I showed the people the danger of postponing their duties to God, from Amos 4:11. The next day we rode forty-five miles to Reisterstown and came in about seven o’clock.

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By invitation, I visited Josias Dallam, who was very ill, and hope it will be followed by the operations of the Holy Spirit, and prove a permanent blessing to his soul. Then rode on to John Worthington’s, and found myself unwell, but happy in God.

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I went to Mr. Hesselius’s, and intended to preach in Annapolis, but there was no house open for me. The next day two of the members of the assembly promised to use their influence in procuring me a house to preach in; but expected they could not succeed. Alas! What have I done? Whose ox or ass have I taken, or whom have I defrauded? But the Lord permits it to be so; therefore I peaceably submit, and will not fear the face of man, nor even a prison, while employed in the cause of God and of truth. However, contrary to my expectation, I preached in the church,¹ though the congregation was small, and the soldiers made a great noise before the door. I then concluded to preach the next time in the commons. But the rain which fell the next day prevented me; and there were but few people at Mrs. Dorsey’s.

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The Lord blessed me with joy and peace in believing, and I was enabled to cast all my care upon him. On Tuesday I went to Mr. P.’s, about twenty miles; and have been much delighted in reading Dr. Watts’s Treatise on the Rest of Separate Spirits, and Mr. Baxter’s Saint’s Rest.¹ In these books we find the marrow of Methodism; that is, pure religion, and sound doctrine which cannot be condemned.

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Satan still manifesteth a desire to sift me as wheat; but the Lord supports me, and fills me with peace. A lowering cloud hangs threatening over our heads; but all my trust is in the Lord, who hath stood by and preserved me for many years; and will stand by me still.

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I rode about twelve miles, and preached a funeral sermon on the death of Mr. W. It was a very affecting time, both to me and the congregation. But after I had read the rules in the society, I told them my doubts, and communicated my ideas of the approaching troubles, which produced a great melting amongst them.

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I had some conversation with Mr. Montgomery [?]; but it was to no purpose, for he was still inflexible. Perhaps I have been too forward in taking his part before, and now he requites me for it.

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There was a very serious congregation in the forenoon where I enforced our Lord’s affectionate declaration, Matthew 23:37. But in the latter part of the day, about eleven miles distant from the other place, the people seemed to be stupid and inattentive. As I have thought bacon was prejudicial to my health, I have lately abstained from it, and have experienced the good effects of this economy. My soul has been kept in great purity, and ardent pantings after more of God.

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In the evening Daniel Ruff and brother Hartley came and brought me some account of the preachers, whom I love in the bowels of Christ, with much affection. We spent the next day together in love, and to edification; and on Wednesday, they set out for Virginia, and I for Annapolis. My spirit was somewhat dejected by the way, with a fear that the people would reject the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to their own destruction. But these matters must be left to the Lord, who “will judge the world in righteousness.” I met a very insensible company at Mr. Childs’s, and laboured to fasten the truth on their hearts, from Malachi 3:7; but it appeared to be labour in vain.

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They received me at Mr. Hammond’s [?] better than I expected; and some were touched by the power of grace. There was an opportunity on Friday of speaking, at least to the judgment of some rich and honourable men, on Psalm 4:6, 7: “There be many that say, Who will show us any good? Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.” My heaviness of spirit was almost removed, and my soul was free and happy in God.

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Though I spoke closely and plainly at Mrs. Dorsey’s, yet the audience did not seem properly to understand me. I had intended to preach in the commons this afternoon, but the rain prevented it, so I preached to a few desirous souls at Mr. Hesselius’s. But my spirit is grieved within me, to see such multitudes of people in these parts so forgetful of God, and filled with the spirit and conversation of this world. Poor souls! If they were only convinced of their sinful and lost estate, their disposition and conversation would be immediately changed. My work at present is very heavy—it is chiefly among unawakened people. I have devised what I could to bring them to God; and know not what new method to take. May the Lord take the work into his own hand!

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There were forty or fifty, chiefly women, to hear the word at Annapolis: to whom I showed, “If our Gospel be hid it is hid to them that are lost; in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them that believe not, lest the light of the glorious Gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” Though I spoke freely yet but few of them seemed to feel it. On Tuesday my soul was under deep exercises. I am often purposing to pursue, with greater ardour, the summit of holiness, but still come short!

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At a place ten miles from Annapolis, there was some melting of heart under the word. I afterward met the class, and then returned with my mind fixed on God, and sweet nearness of soul to him.

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The Spirit of the Lord was with me in preaching at Mr. P.’s; and there was a great moving among the society. Blessed be God for all things! My body has been in tolerable health, and my soul frequently refreshed with the dew of heavenly grace. My meditations in the Hebrew Bible have afforded me great pleasure. This is the book I study for improvement.

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Both at the school house, where I called on the people to consider their ways, from Haggai 1:5; and at Mr. Ridgely’s [?], where I showed them, from Ezekiel 33:31, how many of old time heard the word of the Lord, but did it not; there was very little appearance of anything more than attention, though I never laboured more earnestly to do good. It seems as if a judicial stupidity, in spiritual things, prevails among them.

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Heard Mr. Rankin preach his last sermon.¹ My mind was a little dejected; and I now felt some desire to return to England, but was willing to commit the matter to the Lord. There was a large congregation, and some prospect of good things at Mr. Richard Sewell’s, where I told the people, from the authority of Jesus Christ, “Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:3.)

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God was still my object and my hope. But I have lamented my backwardness in doing good by private conversation; which is in a great measure owing to the natural bashfulness of my disposition. After visiting some poor people to pray and talk with them on the important subject of their salvation, I rode to C.’s, at the head of South River:¹ but it is a miserable, stupid, careless neighbourhood; so I bid it farewell.

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There were many gay and giddy-looking folks to hear the word of the Lord; and a few of them were serious and affected. Poor souls! They are real objects of pity. Both their education and the circle of their acquaintance, have a tendency to make them forget their latter end, and to bend all the strength of their minds to present objects.

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We kept our general fast as appointed by conference; and my soul was enabled to cast all its little cares, both spiritual and temporal, on Him that careth for me. May the Lord direct me how to act, so as to keep myself always in the love of God! I have lately been reading an account of Theodosius and his sons, with several of the ancient Fathers; which also communicates much information relative to the Eastern and Western empires for about three hundred years,—so long were idolatry and Arianism kept out of the Church of Christ. And while Chrysostom was bishop, an Arian church was burnt at Constantinople. But since that time, absolute, unconditional predestination has made its way into the Church, which nullifies all laws, human and Divine—for if men cannot do otherwise than they do, why should any law inflict punishment for their crimes? Must quadrupeds be punished because they do not fly? How easily might men, believing this doctrine, ascribe their envy, malice, and most cruel inclinations, to the effect of Divine predestination; and conclude that their most malignant dispositions were eternally decreed, and therefore not to be conquered but complied with, though they should produce the most pernicious and destructive consequences in human society.

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My soul was composed, and in pursuit of more of God. Having read the conquest of Rome by Alaric, and the rending of the Western Empire by the Goths, I was led to observe how part of the Revelation of St. John was then fulfilled. But much more of this is yet to come.

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After explaining the parable of the sower at Mrs. Dorsey’s, I preached at Annapolis to a large company—some serious, and some gay and trifling—on these compassionate words of Christ, “How often would I have gathered thy children together, and ye would not!”

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As the rain prevented my attending the appointment, I visited the jail, and found an unhappy mortal under sentence of death; who was very ignorant, but so susceptible of religious advice that he was melted into tears, and shook like a leaf.

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The Lord discovered to my view a greater depth of holiness, and my soul thirsted for it. I met with brother Hartley, who had been to Virginia, but having some scruples of conscience about taking the test oath, was obliged to return. May the Lord direct us all how to pursue the most wise and prudent measures! The next day I preached at Magothy,¹ where the work of God goes on successfully.

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At Mr. P.’s there were about a hundred souls, who seemed much alive to God. Here I appointed a quarterly meeting and love feast, on my return from Baltimore and Frederick, next Saturday fortnight.

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The Lord gave me spiritual peace, but my soul was on stretch for a greater degree of holiness, and deeper communion with God. “I pant to feel thy sway,

And only thee to obey;

Thee my spirit gasps to meet;

This my one, my ceaseless prayer,

Make, O make my heart thy seat!

O set up thy kingdom there!”

I have now finished reading sixteen volumes of the Universal History.¹

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In the forenoon the poor rich sinners were very attentive in the school house on Elk Ridge,¹ and it is possible the Lord may raise a people among them to fear and love him. But at Mr. R.’s in the afternoon, the congregation was very dull, though I spoke strong words from the Almighty’s awful declaration concerning the ungodly: “These shall go away into everlasting punishment.”

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Rode thirty-seven miles to the Frederick quarterly meeting¹ without breaking my fast, and was under the necessity of preaching when I arrived. The next day our meeting began with a love feast; and we had a powerful, melting time.

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Having visited my friends in Baltimore, I rode to Mr. Gough’s, met Mr. Rankin, and had some agreeable conversation on the work of God in different parts of America. Went the next day to the Forks, where I met with brother George Shadford in great harmony, and found Divine assistance in dispensing the word.

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We settled all our little affairs in the spirit of love; and brother Shadford partly agreed to go with me to the quarterly meeting. But alas! though my confidence in Christ was not shaken, yet I felt myself less than the least in the company, and unworthy of the favour of both God and man. How merciful is God in giving us such abasing views of ourselves, which have a powerful tendency to drive us closer to him, and keep us always in the dust!

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After I had publicly declared to the righteous, “The God whom we serve is able to deliver us,” we then had a solemn, comfortable love feast; and having done our business, I returned to Mr. Gough’s, where many people attended to receive the word of truth. And we have reason to believe the work of God is now reviving.

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Wednesday, 13, was spent at Mr. Gough’s, and after some conversation I found brother Shadford was not to go with me, because Mr. Rankin did not choose to spend a quarter in Baltimore circuit. Indeed, he has not taken a regular circuit since we have been in America; so I was obliged to go into a new circuit¹ with a young exhorter who had deserted me once before. But all contentions wound my spirit, so I passively submitted.

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My mouth was opened and my heart was enlarged at William Lynch’s (?); and I hope the word was made a blessing to many souls.

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Rode to Curtis’s Creek¹ to hold a quarterly meeting there; and the next morning we began with a love feast. It was a time of great power, and exceeded all we had ever seen in these parts. There was something very admirable in the Christian simplicity of the people, who spoke the language of warm and artless love. Brother Shadford preached a moving sermon on the barren fig-tree; and many sinners wept.

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The rain prevented my going to Elk Ridge, and brother Shadford from going to Baltimore; so we had a very melting time in discoursing on the subject of the Canaanitish woman. And I believe, brother Shadford was persuaded that he ought to be in this circuit with me.

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This was a day of much temptation, but my Deliverer was at hand. At Catherine Small’s, I found a few from the Ridge, who informed me that some attended yesterday in the rain. Hence I conclude, many of them had a desire to be saved; and that it is best for a preacher to attend his appointments, if the apparent risk is not too great. I preached to the people with much affection; many felt the weight of the word, and a young woman was convinced of sin.

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The pacific spirit of grace had possession of my willing heart. After preaching at Mr. G.’s to a few souls as dull as usual, I crossed the Severn river in the rain; and though I expected to feel the consequence, yet suffered no injury.

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How unlike real Christians are some that bear the name! The Lord hath enabled me, of late, to be faithful to the families which have come in my way. And we must overcome our natural bashfulness and backwardness, to assist the precious souls of our fellow-men, who are on the brink of endless ruin, and see it not. On Thursday, both the public congregation and the class were powerfully melted at Mr. C.’s.

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I was much fatigued by riding twenty-five miles and preaching twice. A report that a British fleet was sailing up the Chesapeake Bay, has induced many people to quit Annapolis. Lord, give thy people faith and patience sufficient for their day of trial!

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My soul confided in God, but was sweetly distressed with an ardent desire for more complete holiness. I have lately read Walker’s Sermons with much pleasure. We had an awful storm this evening at nine o’clock. The thunder, lightning, and sweeping winds, were all in commotion. With reverence I turned my mind on the dread majesty and power of God, who, by the elements in which we live, contends with man. Such a scene as this was enough to strike the boldest sinner with terror, and make him even shudder at a wicked thought. And how dare wicked men sin at any time before a God so terrible? Is he less present at one time than another? No, verily! But they desire not the knowledge of God. Their surprise must be great beyond all expression, when disembodied they suddenly find themselves, by woeful experience, acquainted with nothing pertaining to their offended God, but his inexorable justice and vengeful power, of which the awful scenes we now behold in the contending elements, are but a faint resemblance. Then how much better is it to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season?

“Happy the man whose hopes rely

On Israel’s God: he made the sky,

And earth, and seas, with all their train;

His truth forever stands secure;

He saves the oppress’d, he feeds the poor,

And none shall find his promise vain.”

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Thomas Worthington informed me that they had made choice of me to preach in the Garrison Church.¹ But I shall do nothing that will separate me from my brethren. I hope to live and die a Methodist.

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Though it rained I rode twenty-five miles to Magothy; but was tempted and shut up in my mind, while endeavouring to announce, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” But the next day my soul was happy at Mr. Perigau’s,¹ and I admitted four persons into the society on trial. The militia were now collecting from all quarters. On the Lord’s day my soul was much drawn out and blessed in preaching on 1 John 2:16,

17. Perhaps it will not be in my power to preach much longer with a clear conscience. But if it should be so, my greatest concern would be for the people of God. For many of the poor sinners seem deaf to all entreaties; and I seem to be only a witness for God against them, that their damnation may be just, if they will not obey the Gospel.

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The Lord refreshed my own spirit, while I encouraged the few faithful souls who were present, from the words of our Lord, “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Brother Daniel Ruff, who had returned from Virginia, met me to-day.

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My soul was watered with the peaceful influence of Divine grace. But what I enjoyed was a stimulus urging me to groan for more. I spent much of my time in reading Law’s Serious Call, and Baxter’s Call to the Unconverted;¹ and think the latter is one of the best pieces of human composition in the world, to awaken the lethargic souls of poor sinners. My mind was under heavy exercises: so I fasted, and preached with much freedom at Mr. Joseph Taylor’s [?]; but it brought on a smart fever. Though I was much indisposed, necessity was laid upon me to preach twice on Thursday, which increased my fever; and with indifferent lodging and the noise of children, the night was very uncomfortable.

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After being blessed with a warm and comfortable season while preaching to a large company at Mr. Hunt’s [?], I then rode to the widow P.’s, where the word went to the hearts of the people with Divine energy, while I exposed to their view the polluted state of the natural man, and pointed out the sovereign remedy.

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My mind was so intensely bent on seeking after more of God, that I devoted three hours to the exercise of private prayer and found myself much drawn out by the Spirit of grace, in holy wrestling and communion with God. Being informed that sister S. had slept in the Lord, I congratulated her felicity. Happy soul! She is taken away from the evil to come, and gone to Abraham’s bosom, where the wicked cease from troubling, and where the weary are at rest. I have endeavoured to banish all anxiety from my mind, and devote much of my time to prayer; and have reaped the gracious benefit thereof in my soul. On Wednesday I went to Magothy, and had a large congregation; but found that some of our members had begun to backslide, and that the society stood in need of purging.

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By particular request I preached a funeral sermon at the burial of Mr. William Ridgely. There were a great many people; and some of them were cut to the heart while I enforced Ecclesiastes 9:10. But afterward at Mr. P.’s my mind was somewhat embarrassed.

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In performing the last office for L.S., who was a Christian indeed, I declared, for the comfort of true believers, “The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.” Some attended on this occasion who had never heard a Methodist before; and the Lord gave me utterance and power.

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We have great commotions on every side. But in the midst of war, the Lord keeps my soul in peace. My heart was warm in preaching at Catherine Small’s, though the congregation seemed dull. The two following days I had communion with God; but not in such a degree as I wish to experience. I long “to comprehend the length, and breadth, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that I may be filled with all the fulness of God”; to “Live the life of heaven above,

All the glorious life of love.”

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At Mr. W.’s I met with brother Samuel Spraggs, who informed me that the preachers in Virginia intended to abide there awhile longer. Brother Spraggs preached twice, and there were some small moving amongst the people.

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There was nothing remarkable under the word at Mr. Taylor’s; but there was a large company and some melting of heart at Mr. Perigau’s.

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I met with brother George Shadford, who informed me that my brethren, Mr. Rankin and Mr. Rodda, had left the continent. So we are left alone. But I leave myself in the hand of God; relying on his good providence to direct and protect us; persuaded that nothing will befall me, but what shall conduce to his glory and my benefit. There was both attention and concern in the congregation, which was pretty large, at Capt. Stansbury’s.

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Brother George Shadford was unwell with an ague. At Reisterstown I urged the necessity of family duty, and showed them how they should train up their children in the ways of the Lord.

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My soul was stayed upon God, and resigned to his unerring wisdom. I wish to be so subject to my Redeemer, as to move in conformity to his divine will; and in all my ways to acknowledge him as my God and my guide. I spent part of my time the next day in reading Mr. Baxter’s Gildas Salvianus,¹ and esteem it as a most excellent book for a Gospel preacher.

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I rode thirty miles to G.B.’s to meet brother Pedicord.¹ My mind was spiritually employed in reading, meditation, and communion with God.

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The congregation at G.B.’s were dull; but at B.G.’s there was a melting.

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The word seemed to be made a peculiar blessing to the believers at John Hagerty’s [?]; and the next day at Mr. John Evans’ the power of God was present, while I feelingly urged the people from Hebrews 4:16: “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” My spirit was also divinely animated in preaching afterwards at Richard Owings’, though I rode twenty miles between the two sermons. Several old professors felt the reviving influences of the grace of God; and I was in hopes they would press on their way with renewed vigour. Such is the languid disposition of the human soul, that even pure minds require a constant stimulation to keep them in the way of duty. This is one reason why God permits our minds to be tempted by Satan, and our bodies to be afflicted with diseases.

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I attended and spoke at the half-yearly meeting of the Germans. And on the Lord’s day, after preaching at Mrs. D.’s, I returned to the meeting of the Germans, where brother George Shadford and myself both spoke.

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Commotions and troubles surrounded me without, but the peace of God filled my soul within. We seemed to be in a strait; but my heart trusted in the Lord. These distressing times have lately induced many people to pay a more diligent attention to the things of God. So I have hopes that these temporal troubles will prepare the way for spiritual blessings.

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A heavy gloominess hung on my mind. Brother George Shadford and I rode to Mr. H.’s; and after I had enforced these words, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord,” then brother Shadford exhorted, and the hearts of the people melted under the power of the word. We likewise saw the merciful hand of God displayed the next day, at Mr. Willson’s,¹ on the bank of the Potomac.

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As I was unwell, brother Shadford preached in the morning on, “Thy kingdom come;” and there was a moving in the congregation. He also preached in the afternoon at Mr. B.’s, but it was to a large company of stupid souls.

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After I had preached brother Shadford met the class; and it was a very powerful season: he also met a class afterward at Mr. Sinclair’s, and we were favoured with a similar blessing. This has been a day of spiritual and peaceful exercises to my soul. At Mr. Hunt’s on Tuesday, we were blessed with an extraordinary visitation of grace.

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We have been detained by heavy rains at W.S.’s, for three days. The times still wear a gloomy aspect; but our trust is in the providence of a superintending God. We have been greatly blessed, and seen great displays of the divine goodness since we have been together. And we have been made a blessing to each other. We now left Mr. S.’s and rode to Rocky Creek.

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I cried in the morning to a large congregation at Mr. Benjamin Johnson’s, “We pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God;” and in the afternoon at the Sugar Loaf,¹ “Why will ye die?” And my soul was enlarged and blessed both times. I then rode to G.G.’s, which made about twenty miles in the day.

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Our quarterly meeting began, and brother Shadford preached on the subject of the barren fig-tree. On Tuesday we held our love feast at nine, and I preached at twelve. Our brethren Owing, Samuel Spraggs, and Shadford, all spoke. There were many friends from Virginia, and the congregation was very large. It was a powerful, melting time, and concluded in the spirit of love.

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After riding thirty-seven miles I came to Baltimore, but was very weary; though my mind was calmly stayed on God.

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Went to Mr. Gough’s; and on Saturday preached on 3 John 4: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.”

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After preaching with freedom of spirit and speech at the Forks, I returned to Mr. Gough’s and declared, “Ye are the salt of the earth.” My soul has been kept by the grace of God; and “Calm on tumult’s wheels I sit.”

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We set out for the quarterly meeting at Deer Creek. On Tuesday our love feast began at ten, and at half-past two I began the public exercise, from Hebrews 13:17, 18, “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief; for this is unprofitable for you. Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.” The preachers were stationed without any trouble; and all was done in harmony and love.

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I rode back to Mr. Gough’s, in order to attend a quarterly meeting on Curtis’s Creek.¹ The Lord has lately kept my soul in tranquil peace, not much disturbed by Satan. I now purposed, by the grace of God, as often as time will permit, to read six chapters every day in my Bible.

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Great numbers of people attended at the quarterly meeting. Preaching on Acts 14:22, I endeavoured to imitate the apostles: “Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” The power of divine grace was greatly felt in the love feast, and all our business was well conducted.

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Having first preached at the widow H.’s, I rode to Baltimore and preached there. On Tuesday I was blessed in a visit to Mr. G.’s.

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Rode to Reistertown, and found that God was my sufficient portion, and my exceeding great reward. I wanted nothing pertaining to this world more than I possessed; neither clothing, nor money, nor food. Blessed be God, for his parental love and tender care towards me!

“Nothing on earth I call my own:

A stranger, to the world unknown,

I all their goods despise;

I trample on their whole delight,

And seek a country out of sight,

A country in the skies.”

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I have endeavoured to improve my time to the best advantage in reading; and have seen so much beauty in holiness, that I have thirsted and longed for more. My desire is, like Abraham, the father of the faithful, to maintain a constant walk with God.

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At Mr. S.’s I exposed the unjust plea which many make against serving God, from Matthew 25:24, “Then he which had received the one talent came, and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art a hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strewed.” Thus do thousands charge God foolishly: “We cannot repent and bring forth fruits meet for repentance; we cannot cease from evil, and learn to do well; we cannot deny ourselves, and take up our cross; we cannot come to Christ that we may have life. At least, we cannot do these things now; we must wait God’s time.” But God requireth these things now; therefore, those who say they cannot do them, practically say he is a hard master. At Reisterstown in the afternoon, my heart was expanded, and my mouth was opened, while I declared, “He that, being often reproved, hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” On Monday, I parted with William Gill and Samuel Spraggs.

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I came to Mr. Gough’s, on my way to the Eastern shore. On Saturday I intended to have crossed the bay, but was prevented by the weather. My soul has lately felt much of the power of God, and I have been enabled to trust him with myself, and all my concerns.

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I left Mr. Gough’s, and after crossing the Chesapeake Bay, came in safety, at night, to Mr. Carvill Hinson’s; having been absent more than four years, though I was the first of our preachers who carried the Gospel into this neighbourhood. My heart was thankful to God for his providential and gracious preservation of me. The next day I went to Kent Island, and preached with some warmth, and then returned. The two following days, we had profitable times both in preaching and class meetings.

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Preaching and meeting the class at Mr. Edward Gibbs’s, I found the Lord had carried on a good work in the souls of many. Blessed be God! my soul was in a comfortable frame, and my body was the better for exercise.

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Though I spoke with feeling and warmth, yet the people were dull both at F.T.’s and Mr. Hinson’s. But my own soul was kept in solemn nearness to God, and filled with peace and love. And I am persuaded that my appointment to this circuit is by Divine Providence.¹

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Early in the morning I felt a strong desire for more of God. At Mr. White’s¹ my soul was much refreshed in preaching and class meeting. As the congregations are generally large, and most of the people attentive, we have a much greater prospect of doing good in this circuit than in some others.

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I have been blessed with faith, and hope, and love. Lord, if troubles are near, be thou nearer still to protect and comfort me; so shall I not fear what man can do unto me!

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We had a good time in the forenoon, and I found the class in better condition than I expected. In the afternoon the Lord blessed me with freedom and solid peace, while preaching at I.S.’s on Ezekiel 33:11. There is a great prospect of saving souls in this neighbourhood, if preaching can be continued.

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Editorial note: The supplied edition cites “Matthew 7:33” (ASB_VOL1.PDF, PDF page 257), but this is not a valid reference in the library’s KJV numbering. The words quoted here are Matthew 6:33. The historical citation is retained. The 1821 printed journal also reads “Matt. vii. 33”; that older witness does not remove the citation difficulty. Francis Asbury, Journal (1821), PDF page 209.

There was a simple, loving people assembled at Mr. S.’s; and many were powerfully wrought on while I enforced the divine command, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 7:33.) For some days past, my spirit has been rather hurried, and sometimes tempted by Satan; but wonderfully supported by the grace of God. An agreeable prospect opens to my imagination, if Providence should permit me to spend the winter in this circuit.

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At Mr. White’s I met with B.S., who once preached the gospel, and a blessing attended his labours. Thursday was a public fast day, and my soul was kept in a degree of peace, but struggled much for a more constant, fervent spirit of devotion.

Having preached at Mr. Gibb’s, I rode to Thomas White’s, and lectured in the evening, with satisfaction, from the first Psalm. On Saturday I was much embarrassed in preaching at Mr. Howard’s; and under a heavy cloud rode to Hinson’s. But on the Lord’s day my heart was enlarged and inflamed with love, while preaching to a large audience on 2 Thessalonians 1:6-8.

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I preached a funeral sermon near the Nine Bridges,¹ and met with a young minister who had been under Divine impressions: my heart at that time was much united to him; but he afterward became a lawyer.

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Rode through Chestertown, about thirty miles, to Mr. Hinson’s, and enjoyed some rest from a part of my labour. In reading Josephus, I have been led to reflect on the disorder and confusion which have always overspread the earth, in a greater or less degree, ever since the introduction of sin. Blessed be God! my mind is kept free from all tormenting fear: and although my spiritual trials are various and great, his grace is always found sufficient for me. The next day I exhorted the people who came together, and we spent some time in prayer.

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Mr. W. read a good sermon, suitable to the day, at church. Many people attended at the preaching house, where I declared from 1 Timothy 1:15, “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” The language of my heart on this Christmas day was, “Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire besides thee.” The next morning also I was in the spirit of devotion, and enjoyed the peace of God which passeth all understanding. Having preached a funeral sermon in the forenoon, I addressed the congregation at Mr. Hinson’s, from John 1:45, 46.

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