1793

From Wednesday, December 26, to this day, Sunday excepted, we sat in conference in this city.

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I was unwell, yet I set out and reached Mr. Givhan’s, on Edisto River. A few people met me here in the evening; but I was unwell, and weary, and sleepy, and very unfit for public exercise.

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Rode fifty miles to Rumph’s,¹ and rested on the Sabbath. I had a meeting with eight or ten souls. The people in these parts are much given up to sin; they have a little charity for the Baptists, but none at all for the Methodists.

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We rode thirty-seven miles to Treadwell’s;¹ where, had we not begged and promised to pay well for it, I know not if we should have been taken in.

GEORGIA

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We passed Augusta, and rode thirty-seven miles to Haynes’s, where we were treated kindly. Thence, next day, to Washington, forty-four miles. I was taken ill at brother Meriwether’s.¹

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Met our dear brethren in conference.¹ We had great peace and union: the Carolina preachers came up to change with those in Georgia: all things happened well. Bless the Lord, O my soul! We now agreed to unite the Georgia and South Carolina conferences²—to meet in the fork of Seleuda and Broad Rivers, on the first of January, 1794. Our sitting ended in exceeding great love.

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We had sacrament, love feast, and ordination. I felt very serious, and was very pointed on Acts 20:26, 27. I have now had an opportunity of speaking in Washington: most of the people attended to hear this man that rambles through the United States. In due time I shall, with permission, visit Georgia.

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I preached in the new house at Grant’s,¹ on, “He that overcometh shall inherit all things, and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.”

1. The Christian soldier has to overcome the world, sin, and the devil, with his temptations.

2. He fights under the banner of Christ, who is the Captain of his salvation.

3. His armour is described by St. Paul, Ephes. 6.

4. His inheritance—Christian tempers, and the things promised to the seven Churches; and finally, glory—”Will be his God”—giving him wisdom, truth, love—”He shall be my son”—a son partakes of the nature and property of the father, and doeth his will; so it is with those who are the children of God.

Our dear Georgia brethren seem to think some of us shall visit them no more: they appear to be much humbled, and will not give up the travelling preachers. I am now bound for Savannah; where I may see the former walks of a dear Wesley and Whitefield, with whom I hope to meet in the new Jerusalem.

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We had to swim Long Creek. We had few to hear at Haynes’s;¹ but they felt the word, and we had a good time. When the weather is open and the sun shines, the days are generally warm in this country; but the nights are cold, and the houses open.

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Was taken up in reading Ostervald’s Christian Theology; it is simple, plain, and interesting.

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I preached at Bethel on 1 Peter 2:24, 25. I had a full congregation, and great freedom in speaking: the house was a miserable one.

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I came to Buckhead: a few people had gathered, to whom I gave an exhortaton. Reached J——’s; making it thirty-three miles without refreshment, being out from seven to seven o’clock again.

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I rode fifteen miles to my very loving friend brother D——’s: here my mind was exercised with what I heard and felt. Mr. Matthews wrote brother D—— he had been taught my iniquity, to which Mr. Hammet (his brother) gave his sanction. And why was I thus charged? Because I did not establish Mr. Wesley’s absolute authority over the American connexion:—for myself, this I had submitted to; but the American’s were too jealous to bind themselves to yield to him in all things relative to Church government. Mr. Wesley was a man they had never seen—was three thousand miles off—how might submission, in such a case, be expected? Brother Coke and myself gave offence to the connexion by enforcing Mr. Wesley’s will in some matters; for which I do not blame Mr. Wesley: like other great men, he had his elbow friends; and like other people I had my enemies.

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We reach Savannah. Next day I rode twelve miles along a fine, sandy road to view the ruins of Mr. Whitefield’s Orphan House:¹ we found the place, and having seen the copperplate, which I recognized, I felt very awful; the wings are yet standing, though much injured, and the school house still more. It is reported that Mr. Whitefield observed, whilst eating his last dinner in the house, “This house was built for God; and cursed be the man that puts it to any other use.” The land for the support of the school is of little value, except two rice plantations, which we passed in our route.

I returned to Savannah, and preached on Luke 19:10, to a serious people, with whom I had liberty.

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I came to Ebenezer, and had a pleasing interview with Mr. Bergman; he cannot speak much English. The Lord has certainly something in design for this man, more than to be buried in this place. We rode through rice plantations for nearly two miles, and were entangled in the swamp. O, how dreadful to be here in the dark!

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I am not enough in prayer. I have said more than was for the glory of God concerning those who have left the American connexion, and who have reviled Mr. Wesley, Mr. Fletcher, Doctor Coke, and poor me. O that I could trust the Lord more than I do, and leave his cause wholly in his own hands.

This being Saturday, we rest to read and write, having ridden, since Monday morning, about one hundred and twenty-four miles. I reflect upon the present ruin of the Orphan House; and taking a view of the money expended, the persons employed, the preachers sent over, I was led to inquire, where are they? and how has it sped? The earth, the army, the Baptists, the Church, the Independents, have swallowed them all up at this windmill end of the continent. A wretched country this!—but there are souls, precious souls, worth worlds.

I was offered the use of the court house to preach in, but the night being cold and windy, prevented: I preached at Mr. M——’s.¹ We want a house here, which I expect we shall obtain. I suppose there are five hundred houses of all sorts; and if I guess well, about two thousand inhabitants. There is one Lutheran Church, with, perhaps, fifty or sixty members. Goshen church is about forty by twenty-five, well-finished: Mr. Bergman and the congregation have given it to us, on condition that we supply them with preaching on Sabbath days—once in two, or even three weeks.² I lodged at our kind W——’s. Crossed the Savannah at the Sister Ferry; and came on to Blackswamp, and in the dark got pretty well scratched by the trees.

SOUTH CAROLINA

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Preached at Blackswamp church¹ on 2 Corinthians 3:9: the subject was pointed; and the people were attentive.

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I preached at Purysburg¹ to a full house: some of the women appeared to feel the word. We had a heavy ride: I was faint, and low-spirited at the view which I could not fail to take of the state of professors and sinners. I had about fifty hearers, and was invited to a friend’s house, but thought it best to pursue my journey. We came to Salt Ketchers [Salkehatchie] bridge, where we stopped to pay our fare—but O, the scent of rum, and men filled with it! How shocking! Who could enter such a house! I hoped for quiet private entertainment at Red Hill!² but the gentleman refused to receive us for love, money, or hospitality’s sake. I then sent brother R. to know if we could get in at the next Negro quarter: into the house we might be permitted to enter, but we could get no corn for our horses, and no bed for ourselves: overseers dare not, and their employers will not, receive strangers: they are too proud to sell, and too covetous to give. At length we providentially reached a Mr. C——’s, a schoolmaster and minister: we bought some corn for our horses, and had tea, and bread and cheese for ourselves. I saw some beautiful boys at this house: had these children the opportunity of a northern education, what choice young men they might make! I was happy in the house, and pleased with two poor blacks, who were much moved under prayer. Next morning I set out about six o’clock, and passing the Fish-pond we came on slowly to Parker’s ferry. I found my appointment to meet brother Jackson was not properly made; and as it was out of my way, I made a sudden turn to Givhan’s, on Edisto River. After dinner I met with —— who offered to be our guide; but when I began to show him his folly and the dangerous state of his soul, he soon left us, and we had to beat our way through the swamps as well as we could: he said he had killed a Negro worth sixty pounds, and a valuable horse with racing. Pushing on we found our way to the ferry, and crossed about eight o’clock.

I laid me down at nine, and rose again at seven o’clock in the morning and set out: travelling through heavy rains, deep swamps in dark nights, makes both man and beast feel the effect of yesterday’s journey of forty-five miles. My mind has been severely agitated this tour; I have ridden about six hundred and fifty miles in one month, lacking one day.

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I have got through Mr. Wesley’s Journal as far as 1782. Finding the subscription set on foot at the conference to purchase a burying-ground and build a house, was likely to succeed, we began to think about looking out for a lot.¹ I also see a prospect of stationing two preachers here.

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I preached with some life on Ezekiel 36:25, 26: but alas! the people are so dissipated, and so ignorant of Gospel truth, that it is difficult to preach to them; but I cannot spare, though they keep their course to hell. At night I spoke on Isaiah 6:8-10. Our congregation consists of five hundred souls and upwards; three hundred being black. I have seen Mr. Johnson, the last president of the Orphan House in Georgia, who confirmed what I had written respecting it. Charleston is a growing, busy, dreadfully dissipated place. The printed list of vessels in the harbour sets forth, fifty-three ships, fifty-five brigs, twenty-five sloops, twenty-five schooners, seven scows, and two barques, besides pilot-boats and coasters.

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Met the women’s class, white and black, and had a powerful meeting. They agreed to hold a prayer meeting, once a week, amongst themselves.

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I make it my work to visit every afternoon. I happily met with Mr. Wesley’s Journal, bringing the date down to two years before his death. I could not but specially notice that his latter days were more abundant in labours; and that he preached in places formerly unnoticed. He made this observation (so fixed on my mind), that it is rare—a mere miracle, for a Methodist to increase in wealth and not decrease in grace. I have now read the third volume of Gordon’s History; Burnham’s Select Martyrology; and Memoirs of Dying Saints. We have two hundred and seventeen travelling preachers; and about fifty thousand members in the United States. Glory to God in the highest!

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I met the stewards and leaders: it was agreed that every other meeting should be purely spiritual—speaking experience and opening their hearts to each other.

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I preached on Romans 3:11-21. In the evening was very low, but was very plain on Luke 16:31. The building of a new house, and stationing another preacher in this city, and the state of this and the Georgia districts, with things relative to individuals in this society, do not work to my mind; I felt as if the charm was near breaking—some wish union; others will come back. The union must first take place with Dr. Coke, then with the British conference, and then with the American: I ask; who made us twain, and strove to scatter fire-brands, arrows, and death, through the whole continent?

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I had an interview with Dr. A., who came from the north for his health; seeing him so low, and fearing he would die if he stayed here, I hastily invited him to ride out in the country with me.

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We left the city on small horses, with heavy baggage. We came to the Cypress Swamp in the night, following a poor Negro, who waded through as a guide, and not expecting to find it as bad as it was: at length we came to sister Browning’s,¹ and were kindly received; I found no appointments were made for me, owing to brother —— being sick.

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We set out for Santee, but missed our way, and took the road to Fourholds Bridge, being six miles out of our course. We again directed our course to Santee; and after coming within sight of Mangoe’s ferry,¹ I took a wrong road, and went three miles up the river. We came to Mr. H.’s, where we were comfortable, and had whatever we wanted.

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We had our difficulties in getting across the river—the overseer had moved the flat to the middle ground, and would not suffer any one to have it; I entreated him in behalf of the sick, but in vain. Had we waited a few minutes longer, our dear brother B. would have been there to conduct us. I have lately had cross winds; the roads, myself, Satan and my sick companion, Dr. A——, have all been matter of trial to me.

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I preached the funeral of our brother B——, on Isaiah 57:1. The congregation was large and attentive, but appeared stupid and unfeeling.

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Came to brother B[radford’s?], the weather as sultry as in the month of July in the north. We rode thirty miles.

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The weather was exceedingly cold, so that we declined going to the chapel, but had a comfortable meeting at brother Rembert’s, on Ephes. 6:10-20.

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We crossed the water at English’s¹ ferry, and came to father Marshall’s, an Englishman, from Epworth; who was formerly converted, but living under Antinomian dotages, he lost the blessing. I trust the Lord hath again restored him by means of our labours. Here we have a chapel and society.

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This day was rainy, yet nearly four hundred souls came together; but I could not fix the attention of the people, nor get them to understand.

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Came to H——’s, and thence through Columbia, the capital of South Carolina. Brother Reuben Ellis, who is nearly risen from the dead, accompanied me from M——’s: having left one sick man, I now take up another. We came to a house five miles from Columbia; we got a little bread, drank our own tea, had our horses fed, and paid two dollars next morning—so the matter ended.

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We had our difficulties in crossing the river, which was rising; and in beating up Cedar Creek fifteen miles, much of it through the woods: in the evening, we came greatly wearied to R——’s, and were kindly entertained; it may be that Providence sent us here for some good—the man and his wife feel the want of religion.

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We came to Little River Bridge;¹ crossed at S——’s ferry,² and at length came, thoroughly wearied, to brother Finch’s.³ I expect we have been forced to ride twenty or thirty miles out of our way among strangers on account of high waters; my mind has been variously tried: I have been employed in improving myself in the Hebrew tones and points; this being my horseback study.

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Preached at Finch’s. I consulted the minds of our brethren about building a house for conference, preaching, and a district school; but I have no grounds to believe that our well-laid plan will be executed—our preachers are unskilful, and our friends have little money.

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The rains continued, and the waters kept up; crossed Enoree — high, and rising powerfully. Tyger River being impassable, we rode to Cokesbridge, and had a hungry time: came to brother Wright’s, near Union court house.¹

I next day preached to a few people at the open meeting house with some spiritual opening and sweetness. We were closely employed in writing subscriptions for the district school, and copies of the constitutions. Great rains still continue.

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I preached at Flat Rock, in an open house, to an unfeeling people. Thence we came to Pacolet:¹ the waters were up; but for our money we got across in a flat that had drifted and was taken up.

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Came to father Smith’s,¹ a German; first a Baptist, then a Methodist, but last, and best of all, a Christian.

NORTH CAROLINA

Saturday and Sunday, 16, 17. Attended quarterly meeting in Union circuit. There were no elders present. I preached on Ephesians 6:10-18, and felt a great death among the people. Sunday, we administered the sacrament and held love feast. I desired Daniel Asbury to preach, and brother William Gassaway to exhort, whilst I retired to write to Isaac Smith,² desiring him to take the presidentship of Union, Catawba, Little Pee Dee, Great Pee Dee, Anson, and Santee circuits.

The people hereabouts have been poorly handled by those who, whilst they made a great profession of religion, maintained Antinomian principles and practice. I have been unwell, occasioned by the change of seasons, houses, and tables. Came to brother M——’s on Sunday evening, to get a day of rest. I feel the want of religion in families, congregations, and societies. I have travelled about three hundred miles the last three weeks; and have escaped the excessive rains, but have had to wrestle with floods.

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I spent in writing sundry letters to the north; and in my favourite study.

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I had a full house at L——’s. I felt very unfit for public exercises, both in body and mind. I have little desire to come here again:— we can hardly get entertainment. We want brethren and children here. A woman invited us to her house; but when I understood the distance, I determined to haste along, and made it about thirty miles to F——’s, in the cover of the mountain; where we rested in peace, after getting a little Indian bread, fried bacon, and drinking some of our tea. Our lodging was on a bed set upon forks, and clap-boards laid across, in an earthen-floor cabin. But worse than all the rest, these people decline in religion. I feel awful for them on this account. Next morning, about sunrise, we took the path up the mountain.

I sent Daniel Asbury to Dr. Busnell’s, to inquire if there was any expectation of my coming to Burke to preach; for, being indisposed, I intended to turn aside to Johns River. Daniel Asbury returned; and the Doctor’s nephew pursued, and brought us to town, where I gave them a plain, pointed sermon on, “The Son of man is come to seek and save that which was lost”: every one, young and old, lawyers, doctors, and clerks, were obliging, attentive, and serious. Doctor Busnell is a man I have heard of these twenty years, but knew him not until now. He descended from the Bohemians. His son Joseph was happily brought home to God by means of the Methodists; he lived to God, and died in Winchester about twelve months ago. The Doctor’s usage to me was that of a gentleman and Christian. The transition with respect to entertainment was very great; here we had a table, bed, room, and whatever we wanted; but all this could not give me rest, having a return of my rheumatic and nervous complaints.

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Rode up to Johns River: I am heavy; cannot attend study nor mental prayer, and company is irksome. O that my soul were always flaming with perfect love! In the evening eight of us met together, and conversed on the work of God: all was love. Brother P. gave us an animating sermon on, “By whom shall Jacob arise? for he is small.”

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I preached on 1 Corinthians 14:3; there was a noise, and a shaking each day: some were awakened, one professed to be converted, and several to be quickened: the meeting lasted from nine, A.M., to four o’clock, P.M. “While he was yet speaking there came also another.” I heard there was a conference appointed at Reese’s chapel, in Charlotte county, Virginia, to form what they call a free constitution, and a pure Church; and to reject me and my creatures.¹ I know not whose hand is in this; I hope they will call themselves by another name. Only let them settle in congregations and tax the people, and I know how it will work. If we (the itinerant connexion) would give the government into the hands of a local ministry, as some would have it, and tax the people to pay preachers for Sabbath work—this would please such men: but this we dare not do. Whenever the people are unwilling to receive us and think they can do better, we will quietly withdraw from them; and if those who wish the change can serve them better than we have done, well. Perhaps some of them may think with Hammett, in Georgia, that I am the greatest villain on the continent; I bid such adieu, and appeal to the bar of God. I have no time to contend, having better work to do: if we lose some children, God will give us more. Ah! this is the mercy, the justice of some who, under God, owe their all to me, and my tyrants, so called. The Lord judge between them and me! There appears to be a general quickening in the Yadkin circuit, and about eight souls have professed conversion there in the last three months.

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I rested and prepared to cross the Harmon harim—the multitude of mountains.

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We wrought up the meanders of Johns River to the Globe,¹ and met a few people at Mr. Moor’s, a Baptist, a very kind head of a respectable family.

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We began our journey over the great ridge of mountains: we had not gone far before we saw and felt the snow; the sharpness of the air gave me a deep cold, not unlike an influenza. We came to the head of Watauga River. Stopped at Mr. S——’s, and had some enlargement on, “The promise is to you and to your children,” &c. My soul felt for these neglected people. It may be, by my coming this way, Providence will so order it, that I shall send them a preacher. We hasted on to Cove’s Creek, invited ourselves to stay at C——’s, where we made our own tea, obtained some butter and milk, and some most excellent Irish potatoes: we were presented with a little flax for our beds, on which we spread our coats and blankets, and three of us slept before a large fire.

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We made an early start, and came to the Beaver Dam; three years ago we slept here in a cabin without a cover. We made a breakfast at Mr. W——’s; and then attempted the iron or stone mountain, which is steep like the roof of a house. I found it difficult and trying to my lungs to walk up it. Descending the mountain, we had to jump down the steep stairs, from two to three and four feet. At the foot of this mountain our guide left us to a man on foot; he soon declined, and we made the best of our way to Julius Dugger’s¹ ford, on Roans Creek. We came down the river, where there are plenty of large, round, rolling stones, and the stream was rapid. My horse began to grow dull: an intermittent fever and a deep cold disordered me much. I was under obligations to Henry Hill, my new aid, who was ready to do anything for me in his power. Perhaps Providence moved him to offer to travel with me, and his father to recommend him. Twenty years ago a rude, open loft did not affect me— now it seldom fails to injure me.

TENNESSEE

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We took our journey deliberately. We passed Doe River at the fork,¹ and came through the Gap; a most gloomy scene—not unlike the Shades of Death in the Alleghany mountain.² Mr. L——, a kind Presbyterian, fed our horses gratis.³ I must give the Presbyterians the preference for respect to ministers. We prayed, and came on to a kind people;⁴ but to our sorrow we find it low times for religion on Holston and Watauga Rivers. In Green circuit there is some increase. My way opens; and I think I shall go to Kentucky. I laid my hands on what is called “The Principles of Politeness,” imitated from Chesterfield: it contains some judicious remarks, and shows the author to have been a man of sense and education, but of no religion. He recommends some things contrary thereto.

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Our conference began at Nelson’s, near Jonesboro in the new territory.¹ We have only four or five families of Methodists here. We had sweet peace in our conference.

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I gave an exhortation after brothers Henry Hill and Barnabus M’Henry¹ had preached, and there was a melting among the people.

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I had a happy time at my old friend Cash’s;¹ I am pained for his children, who are yet unconverted.

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Rode to Nolachucky, and attended a meeting at Squire Ernest’s,¹ where I had about two hundred hearers. We have formed a society in this place of thirty-one members, most of them new. There are appearances of danger on the road to Kentucky; but the Lord is with us. We have formed a company of nine men, (five of whom are preachers,) who are well armed and mounted.

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Rode to Greenville, and crossed the grand island ford of Nolachucky: the lowlands are very rich, the uplands barren. Stopped and fed at Green court house; here was brought a corpse to the grave in a covered carriage drawn by four horses. Solemn sight! Be instructed, O my soul! A whisky toper gave me a cheer of success as one of John Wesley’s congregation! I came on alone through heavy rains, over bad hills and poor ridges, to brother Benjamin Van Pelt’s,¹ on Lick Creek; he is brother to Peter, my old, first friend on Staten Island: I was weary, damp, and hungry; but had a comfortable habitation, and kind, loving people, who heard, refreshed, and fed me. We had a large congregation at brother Van Pelt’s chapel,² where I had liberty in speaking. I left the young men to entertain the people awhile longer, and returned and read Mr. Wesley’s Sermon on Riches.

If reports be true, there is danger in journeying through the wilderness; but I do not fear—we go armed. If God suffer Satan to drive the Indians on us; if it be his will, he will teach our hands to war, and our fingers to fight and conquer.

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Our guard appeared, fixed, and armed, for the wilderness. We came down to E——’s, and were well entertained. Thence we proceeded on to the main branch of Holston which, being swelled, we crossed in a flat; thence to R——’s, where I found the reports relative to the Indians were true—they had killed the post and one or two more, and taken some prisoners. I had not much thought or fear about them.

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We came off: there were only eight in our company, and eight in the other; two women and three children. We had two poor sinners, that set themselves to work wickedness: they would not let us go foremost: so we took it patiently, and followed up to the Cumberland station. I went to Robinson’s station, where the soldiers behaved civilly. We gave them two exhortations, and had prayer with them. They honoured me with the swinging hammock (a bear skin), which was as great a favour to me as the governor’s bed; here I slept well.

KENTUCKY

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We hasted on our way, meeting with our troubles at the foot of Cumberland mountain; we then went foremost, and travelled at a great rate, the roads being uncommonly good.¹ We fed on the banks of Cumberland River, and kept up the head of Rich Lands. We then pushed through Little and Big Laurel to the Hazel Patch,² Hood’s station. Here there was high life below stairs, talking, laughing, &c. We had a troop of poor, very poor sinners; I gave dreadful offence by a prayer I made. After resting here from three to six, we urged our way along the new road to Rock Castle. Fed at the deserted station, and hasted to Willis Green’s; but, missing our way, did not get in until eight o’clock: a supper at that time was good, and a bed was better, having not slept in one for three nights, and having ridden one hundred miles in two days. I felt so well in the morning I was ready to set out for Salt River. I went to Danville, and set myself down in Mr. Rice’s church³; thence to Francis Clark’s,⁴ where I was not expected, but was quite welcome. I left my aid and pack-horse at G——’s, to rest.

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We rode thirty-three miles down to a quarterly meeting at Humphries chapel.¹ Here my presence surprised the brethren. The state of the work here appears to be low. I had some light, life, and liberty in preaching, and some felt the word. We closed our meeting after several had joined in prayer. Lord, remember the labours of this day! Let not thy faithful word fall to the ground! From the quarterly meeting we came to Col. Hardin’s.² He has been gone some time, as a commissioner, to treat with the Indians; if he is dead, here is a widow and six children left. I cannot yet give him up for lost. We had a large congregation at W——’s, where I was led out on Psalm 34:17-20. I cannot stand quarterly meetings every day; none need desire to be an American bishop upon our plan, for the ease, honour, or interest that attends the office: from my present views and feelings, I am led to wish the conference would elect another bishop, which might afford me some help.

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Rode thirty miles without food for man or horse. I was uncomfortable when I came into the neighbourhood of W——’s: there is a falling away among the people. Lord, help me to bear up in the evil day! Let me not disquiet myself, and kill man and horse in vain.

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I rode sixteen miles to Francis Clark’s station to attend the quarterly meeting. My winter’s clothing, the heat of the weather, and, my great exertions in travelling, cause me to be heavy with sleep; yet blessed be God, I live continually in his presence, and Christ is all in all to my soul!

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I preached a short, pointed sermon; and the preachers and members were moved.

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We had sacrament and love feast; and some spoke much to the purpose: my subject was Hebrews 6:4-8. The congregation was very large. I endeavoured to show, 1st. How far people may advance in the grace of God; 2d. By what degrees they may apostatize; 3d. The impossibility of a recovery when they arrive at a certain degree of wickedness:—(1.) Because they sin against God, Christ, and the Eternal Spirit, and lose all they ever felt or knew;—(2.) Every means is lost upon them; to sin against the remedy, is to be undone without it. The difference between those who are recoverable and those who are not: such are not who deny the work to be of God, persecute, and say the devil was the author of it; the others acknowledge the work that it was of God, and have some regard for his people. Lastly: that the only security pointed out by the apostles against apostasy, is to go on to perfection.

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I was at Bethel—the place intended for a school.¹

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We had sacrament and love feast, and some living testimonies.

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Rode through the rain to Lexington. I stopped at Charles White’s¹ once more. O that God may help him safe to glory! Came to brother Morgan’s. I felt awful and solemn, and some dejection of mind. Ah! want of religion is too visible in most houses.

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Wednesday, May 1, Thursday, 2. We spent in conference; and in openly speaking our minds to each other. We ended under the melting, praying, praising power of God. We appointed trustees for the school; and made sundry regulations relative thereto: we read the Form of Discipline through, section by section, in conference.

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I preached on Habakkuk 3:2. I first pointed out the distinguishing marks of a work of God; 2d. The subjects; 3d, The instruments; 4th, The means. If ever I delivered my own soul, I think I have done it this day. Some people were moved in an extraordinary manner, shouting and jumping at a strange rate.

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Came to Bethel to meet the trustees.

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We had an awful time whilst I opened and applied “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men.” It was a feeling, melting time, among old and young; and I am persuaded good was certainly done this day. I feel a good deal tried in spirit, yet, blessed be God, I still have peace within; God is all to me: I want more faith to trust him with my life, and all I have and am.

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We rode down to the Crab Orchard, where we found company enough, some of whom were very wild: we had a company of our own, and refused to go with them. Some of them gave us very abusive language; and one man went upon a hill above us, and fired a pistol towards our company. We resolved to travel in our order, and bound ourselves by honour and conscience to support and defend each other, and to see every man through the wilderness. But we could not depend upon wicked and unprincipled men, who would leave and neglect us, and even curse us to our faces. Nor were we at liberty to mix with swearers, liars, drunkards; and, for aught we know, this may not be the worst with some. We were about fourteen or fifteen in company; and had twelve guns and pistols. We rode on near the defeated camp,¹ and rested till three o’clock under great suspicion of Indians: we pushed forward; and by riding forty-five miles on Wednesday, and about the same distance on Thursday, we came safe to Robinson’s station, about eight o’clock.

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We rode leisurely from the edge of the wilderness, crossed Holston and about one o’clock came to brother E——’s, it being about sixteen miles.

TENNESSEE

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We came to brother Van Pelt’s, with whom we rested on the Sabbath. I have travelled between five and six hundred miles in the last four weeks, and have rested from riding fifteen days at conferences, and other places. I have been much distressed with this night work—no regular meals, nor sleep; and it is difficult to keep up prayer in such rude companies as we have been exposed to; I have also been severely afflicted through the whole journey.

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Was a day of great trial; we rode about forty-six miles; stopped at ——, where, through carelessness, I nearly had been burnt up.

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At eleven o’clock we came to Baker’s.¹ The subject was, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” Sisters W——, and H——, making some clothing, and repairing my burnt raiment next day, we could not move until eight o’clock. We then set out without a guide, missed our road, and came in about two o’clock: we found the people patiently waiting, to whom I preached on “Ye will not come to me that ye might have life.”

VIRGINIA

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Came to Abingdon—felt very heavy; I however preached in the court house to a very genteel people on the words of Joshua, “Ye cannot serve God,” &c.

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Came to sister Russell’s¹; I am very solemn. I feel the want of the dear man who, I trust, is now in Abraham’s bosom, and hope ere long to see him there. He was a general officer in the continental army, where he underwent great fatigue: he was powerfully brought to God, and for a few years past was a living flame, and a blessing to his neighbourhood. He went in the dead of winter on a visit to his friends; was seized with influenza, and ended his life from home: O that the Gospel may continue in this house! I preached on Hebrews 12:1-4, and there followed several exhortatons. We then administered the sacrament, and there was weeping and shouting among the people: our exercises lasted about five hours. I have little rest by night or by day. Lord, help thy poor dust! I feel unexpected storms—within from various quarters; perhaps it is designed for my humiliation. It is a sin in thought that I am afraid of: none but Jesus can support us, by his merit, his Spirit, his righteousness, his intercession; that is, Christ in all, for all, through all, and in every mean, and word, and work.

WEST VIRGINIA

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Rode to Cook’s, and was well steeped in rain; here I wrote a plan for a district school.

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We rode forty-five miles to Elias Harmon’s,¹ where we had many people. About five o’clock, on our way over the hills, we felt the rain without, and hunger within: next day we crossed Walker’s Mountain, and in the evening met brother M—— at Munday’s.

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Came to Rehoboth, in the sinks of Green Briar; where we held our conference. I was greatly comforted at the sight of brothers B.J. and Ellis Cox. We had peace in our conference, and were happy in our cabin. I learn that mischief is begun in the lower parts of Virginia; J. O’Kelly, and some of the local preachers, are the promoters and encouragers of divisions among the brethren.

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We passed the Sweet Springs,¹ and crossed a rough mountain to brother Dew’s on Potts Creek. I wrote many letters to the south district of Virginia, to confirm the souls of the people, and guard them against the division that is attempted among them. VIRGINIA

Came to Edward Mitchell’s.² Crossed James River, near the mouth of Craigs Creek;³ but was prevented by the rain from pursuing our journey. We spent the evening comfortably at sister Pryer’s.

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Rode forty-five miles to Moore’s furnace; and lodged with kind brother R.

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We came to Staunton, a very unpleasing place to me. There are an Episcopal church, a court house, good taverns, and stores here. We went to Mr. ——’s, expecting to find a friend; after making the trial, we thought it best to return and take lodging in a tavern. Thence we proceeded on to Rocktown,¹ a beautiful place; here I felt myself stiff, and weary, and troubled with rheumatic pains: sweet sleep was quite welcome. My congregation was small, the people not having proper notice of my coming. Satan has been sowing discord here, and has hindered the work of God; but I hope the approaching quarterly meeting will be a blessing to them, and that we shall not toil in vain. The loss of sleep, and other circumstances, made me very heavy, and brought on a sick headache, which I had not felt for some time. I spent the evening with Doctor Dulany. Rose, and took the rain next morning as usual, having had rain for eight or ten days successively. On my way I was met by an old German, who shook me by the hand, and said he wished he might be worthy to wash my feet. Yea, thought I, if you knew what a poor sinful creature I am, you would hardly look at one so unworthy; but Jesus lives—O precious Christ, thou art mine and I am thine!

Came to Newtown:² the roads exceedingly miry, and our horses very tired: we are glad to get a little rest at brother Phelps’s. My soul has been much tried by Satan, and I am pained for the work of God. In my six months’ travel I find that six acceptable preachers are preparing to settle themselves in the world, and leave the itinerancy.

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We came to Winchester; where they have built an excellent house, and we have better times than I expected: here nothing would do but I must preach, notwithstanding the lanes and streets of the town were so filled with mire, owing to the late rains.

WEST VIRGINIA

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We rode to Bath, that seat of sin: here we continued to rest ourselves: my public work was a sermon on the Sabbath. A number of our society from various parts being here, I have an opportunity of receiving and answering many letters. I am afraid I shall spend nine or ten days here to little purpose; I employ myself in reading Thomas à Kempis and the Bible: I also have an opportunity of going alone into the silent grove, and of viewing the continent, and examining my own heart. I hope for some relief from my rheumatic complaint which has so oppressed me for six months past. The people here are so gay and idle, that I doubt there being much good done among them. The troubles of the east and west meet me as I pass.

MARYLAND

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A number of us crossed the ferry at the mouth of Great Capon; and made our way through great heat to Oldtown, thirty-two miles: we were obliged to ride moderately, or the excessive warmth of the weather might have killed our horses. We had no small consolation in uniting the brethren from three districts in conference;¹ whose names only were before known to each other. I gave them one sermon on, “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; they shall prosper that love thee.” Our conference sat three days successively, very closely employed.

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I had some little time to read, write, and pray. My congregation was careless and unfeeling. I enforced David’s charge to Solomon. Methinks it ought to be with those who have to do with souls, as with a tender feeling physician that attends a patient: does the fever rage, or the delirium continue? his countenance is sad; and when labour and medicine fail, and the symptoms continue or grow worse, he is then forced, as a skilful physician, to pronounce his patient incurable—whilst a quack flatters and sees no danger: such is the difference between a true minister of Christ and a false teacher, when applied to the souls of men. PENNSYLVANIA

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We rode thirty-five miles to Fidler’s,¹ and thirty-five more the next day to Fort Littleton. Our roads are rough; I am sick; our fare is coarse; but it is enough—I am to die. I have been under violent temptations—Lord, keep me every moment! Our horses were out of the way, so that we could not pursue our journey. I was desirous to be doing good somewhere; and was led to speak to a woman unknown to me, and urged her to pray three times a day: she appeared tender; and with tears promised to do so—perhaps this labour may not be lost. I have had the happiness to hear that my labour of this kind at the widow H[ollopeter’s?] when there last, was successful, and that a woman was wrought upon to give herself to God, and found peace. We collected the little persecuted society, to whom I preached on, “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution”: they were poor, but very kind. Thence we proceeded on to Juniata; crossed to Mifflin Town, and came to Henry Moore’s.²

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Was to me a day of trial. We set out late towards Northumberland: night coming on, we stopped at Penn’s Creek. Next morning we went to Northumberland to breakfast. It has a little chapel (that serves as a school house) belonging to the Methodists. We have a few kind, respectable friends, whose circumstances are comfortable. I gave them a sermon on John 14:6; and in the afternoon paid Sunbury a visit. The people here are almost all Dutch. I was enabled to speak alarming words on Acts 4:12.

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After preaching on “the grace of God appearing to all men,”¹ we wrought up the hills and narrows to Wyoming.² We stopped at a poor house; nevertheless, they were rich enough to sell us a half bushel of oats, and had sense enough to make us pay well for them. We reached Mr. Parish’s³ about eleven o’clock. I found riding in the night caused a return of my rheumatic complaint through my breast and shoulders. But all is well, the Lord is with us.

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Being the anniversary of the American independence, there was a great noise among the sinners: a few of us went down to Shawnee:¹ called a few people from their work, and found it good for us to be there.

——² On the 5th, after very sultry weather, there came a whirlwind, and a very great storm; in which there fell hail of such a size that three stones filled a pint measure: this went through Hudson, some distance from us.

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The Lord has spoken in awful peals of thunder. O, what havoc was made here fifteen years ago! most of the inhabitants were either cut off, or driven away.¹ The people might have clothed themselves in sackcloth and ashes the third, if in white and glory the fourth of July. The inhabitants here are very wicked; but I feel as if the Lord would return. I hope brothers Frisby, Richard Inman, and Parish will be owned of the Lord. The man at whose house I was to preach,² made a frolic the day before; it was said he sent a mile across the river for one of his neighbours, taking him from his work, and telling him he was about to bleed to death: this falsity was invented, I suppose, to incline the man to come: the people would not come to his house. I had to walk a mile through burning heat to preach;³ I was severely exercised in mind, hardly knowing where to go to get a quiet, clean place to lie down.

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I took “The Wilderness,” through the mountains, up Lackawanna on the Twelve-miles Swamp;¹ this place is famous for dirt and lofty hemlock. We lodged in the middle of the swamp at Stanton’s;² and made out better than we expected. Next morning we set out in the rain, without breakfast: when we came to the ferry,³ a man took us to his house, and gave us some bread, butter, and some buckwheat, and then charged us four shillings and twopence, although we found our own tea and sugar,—the place we should have called at was a little farther on the way.

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We came to Broadhead’s,¹ and were totally unknown; I was sick, and stopped for breakfast—they suspected we were preachers; one asked brother Hill² who I was: being informed, the mother, son, and daughter came running with tears to speak with me.

NEW YORK

I stopped and gave them a sermon at Marbletown.³ I found the work of God going on among the Low Dutch:—these, of all the people in America, we have done the least with.

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We rode to Coeyman’s Patent; we had a good quarterly meeting; many newly-converted souls testified of the goodness of God, and of the power of his grace. From thence to Albany with reluctance; and lectured, being Sabbath evening: I felt the wickedness of the people: but we had a melting season among the preachers in our conference. Great changes will be made among the preachers from this conference: some will be sent to New Jersey; others to Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The people of Albany roll in wealth: they have no heart to invite any of the servants of God to their houses; unless a great change should take place, we shall have no more conferences here. I am tired down with fatigue and labour, under great weakness of body. Yet I must haste to Lynn—it may be, to meet trouble. But my days will be short.

“My suff’ring time will soon be o’er;

Then shall I sigh and weep no more:

My ransom’d soul shall soar away,

To sing God’s praise in endless day.”

We hope two hundred souls have been awakened, and as many converted, in Albany district the past year. Our friends are happy here, not being distressed with divisions in the Church, nor by war with the Indians, as they are to the southward. According to our reckoning, we make it about four hundred and forty-seven miles from Old Town to Albany—to come the mountainous road through the woods; and to come by Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York, it is six hundred miles.

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The congregation being small, and the preachers sleepy, made it a task for me to preach at Rowe’s chapel.¹

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There was a breath of life in the love feast. I was enabled to be close in preaching on Matthew 18:3: “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven.” In my introduction I showed that the being converted here mentioned is the same word which in other places is translated, “born again”; answering to the new creation and resurrection. In this discourse I took occasion to show the miserable state of the unconverted, both present and future, and the exercises that converted souls do, and must pass through;—that they must be made as little children, wholly dependent on God; possessing meekness of spirit, and freed from the guilt, power, and nature of sin. My mind enjoyed peace; but I was grieved at seeing a number of young, unfeeling sinners, assembled at a tavern on the Lord’s day. CONNECTICUT

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We rode fifteen miles to Sharon, two miles from Litchfield:¹ there is a little move among the people of this place.

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Came to H——’s.¹ I rested in a very solitary shade, and was comforted in my own mind. Perhaps the old man is right who says, not many of this generation will enter into the promised land, but their children. Came to East Hartford, and find it still a day of small things. Falling under deep dejection, (such as I had not known for months), I concluded to preach this evening for my own consolation on, “Thou that teachest another, teachest thou not thyself?” We passed through and spent a night at Windham—a pleasant town. Thence through Canterbury and Plainfield; where our preachers from Connecticut have visited—but it is a dry land— little rain in a double sense. Thence I came upon the State of Rhode Island; stopped in Coventry, and found that the two preachers stationed here have been running over almost the whole State, and had formed but few societies.² When I came to Providence, I. Martin told me, that under the present difficulties they had agreed not to forward the preachers of the Methodists among them, nor to befriend them; I asked for a tavern, and was directed to General Thayer’s,³ where I was used well: some were displeased at our praying; and acted much like Sodomites. O, the enmity and wickedness that is in the human heart! In the morning I was visited by Mr. Wilson; I gave him my mind freely, and left him: the secret of the matter was, that many in that congregation would have been kind to us, but meeting with Mr. Wilson,⁴ coming from Ireland (once a travelling preacher), he settled with them: their convenience suited his interest. But the people can hear us in the school house; and if any are awakened, they will join the Church over the bridge.

MASSACHUSETTS

We had heavy work for man and horse to reach Easton—our money grew short.

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Reading the Scripture in the congregation appeared to be a new thing among the people. I gave them a lecture under the apple trees, on Isaiah 35:3-6; and trust my labour was not lost.

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We rode upwards of thirty miles, through great heat to Lynn. On our way we fed our horses, and bought a cake and some cheese for ourselves; surely we are a spectacle to men and angels! The last nine days we have ridden upwards of two hundred miles, and all things taken together, I think it worse than the wilderness: the country abounds with rocks, hills, and stones; and the heat is intense—such as is seldom known in these parts.

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Preached in Lynn, on 2 Chronicles 15:2, the prophecy of Azariah by the Spirit.

I. We are to seek Jehovah in the means; by the direction of the word and Spirit; through Christ, by repentance and faith.

II. The Lord will be with his people, as a Father and God; in his wisdom, love, truth, and mercy; at all times and places; in every strait and difficulty. III. We should be with God as his children, to fear, trust in, worship, and serve him.

IV. The breach of the covenant by idolatry, departing from the love, fear, and confidence they have in him.

V. That the Lord will withdraw from such souls.

August. We have only about three hundred members in this district, yet we have a call for seven or eight preachers; although our members are few, our hearers are many.

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We had preaching at six, twelve, two, and seven o’clock, and administered the Lord’s supper also. I have now finished my work at Lynn. Circumstances have occurred which have made this conference more painful than any one conference beside.¹

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We rode to Cambridge. On our way we called on Mr. Adams,¹ and found him and his wife under deep exercise of mind. We then came to Waltham where many attended. Things appear strange here; but several souls are under awakenings, and there is hope the Lord will work. The harvest is great; the living, faithful labourers are few. We hasted to Weston;² and found a congregation at the Baptist meeting house. From Weston we came two miles to Needham:³ here the majority of the people prefer the Methodist preachers, and want to pay them by a tax on the people; but brothers Smith and Hill⁴ absolutely refused this plan,—for which I commended them. I gave them a sermon, and found some feeling souls.

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We passed several little towns, and came to Milford, about nineteen miles from Needham: here they have a good priest’s house, and meeting house; all appear to be in peace and fulness of bread. About three hundred were soon collected, to whom I preached on, “The love of Christ constraineth us,” &c. The man at whose house we lodged was very kind, and told me his father held society meeting in the house where we preached, and, except conditional perseverance, preached our doctrines. We rode through Mendon, Douglas, Thompson, Woodstock, up to Pomfret: missing our way, and being very unwell, as I have been for some time with an inflammation in my throat, we concluded to turn in at a tavern, and spend the night in pain: pain begets invention. I now began to think, What shall I do? I am my own physician. I sent for two blisters; applied both to my ears; and then began to march to Ashford. I turned in at Mr. Woodward’s, and met brothers Taylor and Smith¹ and was dragged out to baptize a household, whilst I had a fever; the weather was excessively warm, like Carolina: I had an awful night.

CONNECTICUT

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Came to brother Howard’s:¹ here I grew worse: this night I had some discharges, and was somewhat relieved. For a few days I have felt some pain in my left foot: it now inflamed more and more until I could scarcely put it to the floor; I applied a poultice, and spent the Sabbath in private; and was closely engaged in reading the Scriptures.

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Our conference sat at Tolland. Lame as I was, I went through the business; and notwithstanding I was tired out with labour, heat, and pain, and company, I must also preach; so I submitted; and endeavoured to apply 2 Timothy 2:24-26. Being unable to ride on horseback, I drove on in a carriage through the rain, over the rocks, in the dark, and came to Doctor Steel’s¹ at Ellington.

Yesterday the pain seized my right foot. I am now not able to move from my horse to a house; an attack of this kind generally terminates in about eight days.

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Came in brother Steele’s carriage to Hartford. From what we can gather, we are encouraged to hope that upwards of three hundred souls have been awakened, and more than two hundred converted to God the last year: if this work goes on, Satan will be labouring by all means, and by every instrument. From Hartford I came to Middletown. I slept at Ebeneezer Frothingham’s,¹ who was the first separate minister on the west of Connecticut River; a man who had laboured, and written much: had his learning been equal to his piety and good sense, the standing order would have trembled under his hand. Who would think his Church would vote him out, when old and gray-headed, because he could not subscribe to the new divinity? He is now, as he saith, like a broken vessel; upwards of fourscore years of age: his wife and children favour us. I came to New Haven; thence to Derby; and had a return of the inflammation in my throat. Came to West Haven—very unwell. I had heavy work to get to Reading, being lame in both feet: I laid myself down on the road-side, and felt like Jonah or Elijah. I took to my bed at Reading. NEW YORK

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Rode ten miles on horseback, and thirteen in a carriage, to Bedford, and rested a day at dear widow Banks’s,¹ where I was at home. O, how sweet is one day’s rest!

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When I came near the White Plains, my horse started, and threw me into a mill-race knee deep in water, my hands and side in the dirt; my shoulder was hurt by the fall. I stopped at a house, shifted my clothes, and prayed with the people. If any of these people are awakened by my stopping there, all will be well. This day I made out to ride thirty-three miles.

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Came to New York. The weather is extremely warm. Great afflictions prevail here—fluxes, fevers, influenzas. It is very sickly also in Philadelphia.¹ I have found by secret search, that I have not preached sanctification as I should have done: if I am restored, this shall be my theme more pointedly than ever, God being my helper. I have been sick upwards of four months; during which time I have attended to my business, and ridden, I suppose, not less than three thousand miles. I kept close house in New York until Sunday, 25; then I attempted to preach on Romans 13:10-12. The weather being warm, and dry, I caught an influenza which held me four days²—and this in addition to my fevers, and lameness. The effects of this weather were sensibly felt by every member of the conference, some of whom were so indisposed that they could not attend. We made a collection of forty pounds for the relief of the preachers on the frontiers of New York and Connecticut. We have awful accounts from Philadelphia; which made me feel too much like a man, and too little like a Christian.

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I rested.

NEW JERSEY

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Dined at Elizabethtown on my way to Philadelphia.

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I reached Trenton, and received a letter from brother M— k—y, requesting me to come to Burlington, and that it was doubtful whether it were prudent to go to Philadelphia on account of the contagion that then prevailed in that city; I did not reach Burlington so soon as was expected, and the preachers went on to Philadelphia. I preached in Burlington, and the people were very solemn.

PENNSYLVANIA

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We rode to the city. Ah! how the ways mourn! how low-spirited are the people whilst making their escape! I found it awful indeed. I judge the people die from fifty to one hundred in a day: some of our friends are dying, others flying.¹

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I preached on Isaiah 58:1: “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins.” The people of this city are alarmed; and well they may be. I went down to Ebenezer (a church in the lower part of the city), but my strength was gone: however, I endeavoured to open and apply Micah 6:9. The streets are now depopulated, and the city wears a gloomy aspect. All night long my ears and heart were wounded with the cry of fire! O! how awful! And what made it still more serious, two young men were killed by the fall of a wall: one of them was a valuable member of our society. Poor Philadelphia! the lofty city, He layeth it low! I am very unwell; my system is quite weak; I feel the want of pure air. We appointed

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Tuesday, 10th, to be observed as a day of humiliation: I preached on 1 Kings 8:37-40; and had a large and very serious, weeping congregation. The preachers left the city on Monday; I continued in order to have the minutes of conference printed.

DELAWARE

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We left the city—solemn as death! The people of Darby¹ and Chester are sickly: and they are greatly alarmed at Wilmington. I found a quiet retreat at friend Bond’s,² near New Castle. Came to the quarterly meeting at the Cross Roads, where there were crowds of people: I gave them a sermon on, “Yea, in the way of thy judgments have we waited for thee.” I showed, 1. That God sent pestilence, famine, locusts, blasting, mildew, and caterpillars; and that only the Church and people of God know, and believe his judgments. 2. That God’s people waited for him in the way of his judgments; and, 3. That they improved and profited by them. About one o’clock we set out and rode thirty-two miles to Thomas White’s; and spent one day at my former home.

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We rode twenty miles to Milford, and had a comfortable love feast; I preached to many on 2 Chronicles 7:13-15. I preached a laboured sermon at Quantees¹ quarterly meeting: the second day brother G. preached, on, “There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.” My finishing stroke was to show them the way to ruin—so we parted. VIRGINIA

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We rode to Accomac: and had a comfortable quarterly meeting at Downing’s. I met the located official members, and we had sweet fellowship together.

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After a gracious love feast and preaching on Jeremiah 17:9, 10, I returned, weak in body, and under dejection of mind, to Churn’s chapel,¹ a ride of twenty miles: this is one of the most awful places I ever visited, according to my feelings: I had only courage to exhort for a few minutes. Brother Smith,² one of our elders, gave it as his opinion that two hundred people had died in the bounds of Somerset circuit the last summer.

I searched the continent for the Travels of Sin and True Godliness; now they are printed and bound together, and sell well: our Americans are not fools; no books sell like those on plain, practical subjects; as the Saint’s Rest, Baxter’s Call, Alleine’s Alarm, and Thomas à Kempis. MARYLAND

I came to Bartholomew Ennall’s to quarterly meeting: we had a solemn time, though our congregation was small.

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We came to Easton, twenty-five miles; here the people pretended to be afraid of my communicating the infection of the yellow fever, although I had been out of Philadelphia from the 9th to the 26th instant. I gave them a long discourse, and then rode to Hillsboro; and thence to Judge White’s. Sickness prevails in every house; but there are not so many deaths as might be expected from general afflictions.

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I preached at quarterly meeting, on, “The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble, and he knoweth them that trust in him.”

1. Originally, independently, communicatively good. 2. He knoweth, loveth, approveth, and delivereth those that put their trust in him.

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I came early to Churchhill; and felt myself solemnly engaged with God. In the evening I was enabled to give a close, alarming exhortation on the present alarming and awful times.¹

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I endeavoured to enforce, at Worton’s, “Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the Lord.” The wind being contrary, we rode twenty miles to brother Stephen Black’s, through dust and drought. Brother Black conveyed me to North East on Thursday; and Friday, 4, after disputing the passage at the ferry with Mr. R——, I rode to Cokesbury. I had left Philadelphia, and knew not that a pass was necessary until I came to the ferry. Mr. Barney, who was a health-officer, behaved like a gentleman, and gave me a true and honourable certificate. I found matters in a poor state at college—£500 in debt, and our employees nearly £700 in arrears.

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Came to Baltimore; passed the guard against the plague in Philadelphia, set for prudence, one hundred miles off. O! the plague of sin! Would to God we were more guarded against its baleful influence! I was sick, weary, and feeble; yet, preaching being appointed for me in town, I sounded the alarm on Jeremiah 13:16: “Give glory to God before he cause darkness,” &c.

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I hasted to Annapolis.

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Attended a quarterly meeting at Bignall’s,¹ in a large tobacco-house, where I enlarged on the weighty words of our Lord: “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.”

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I opened and applied the charge given by David to Solomon, at Gassaway Rawling’s, well adapted to the children of the Methodists.

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I had a large congregation of serious women at Capt. William Weems’s. To these I preached on John 14:16. 1. Christ is the way to God by precept, example, and power. 2. The truth; the true Messiah, revealing the truths of God, the standard and judge of all. 3. The life, by his merit and Spirit, leading to the knowledge of God in his perfections and glory.

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I enlarged on “Without me ye can do nothing,” and applied it to sinners, Pharisees, hypocrites, backsliders, believers, and sanctified souls.

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I attended a quarterly meeting at Hardestie’s; where I exhorted the people to “Forget the things that are behind, and to reach towards the things that are before”—i.e. establishment in grace, walking with God, resignation to his will, meekness, humility, perfect love, a glorious resurrection, and eternal glory. “Leave the things that are behind”—see Hebrews 6:1, and 5:12. “Leave these”; so as not to rest in conviction, repentance, faith, justification, nor in Church ordinances, as being the whole of religion, or any part thereof, any farther than as they lead us to Christ. We had some life in the love feast, and in public service; but there is a dearth here. The circuit has suffered for want of a preacher.

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I came to Baltimore, and preached on Amos 3:6-8.

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Our conference began.¹ I was well pleased with the stations, and the faithful talk most of our brethren gave us of their experience and exercises. I preached a charity sermon, on, “Hath God cast away his people?” We collected £27, which was augmented to £43, and applied it to the supplying the wants of the distressed preachers.

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I preached, and ordained elders and deacons, at the Point, and at night, in town, spoke on Jeremiah 9:12-14.

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I left Baltimore in a cool, stormy day. We dined with Capt. White,¹ on the north branch of the Patuxent, and had only time to warm, eat, drink, and pray. We hasted on to Shadrach Turner’s. We stopped on the way at the house of some old, forgotten English people: I talked plainly to the poor old woman, and commended the family to God in prayer. VIRGINIA

I rode to my old friend Adams’s;² and spent the evening in Christian conversation, writing, and prayer.

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Five of us came to Stafford court house. The next day we dined and prayed at Falmouth’s,¹ and in the evening reached Collins’s, an old stand in Caroline county.

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We breakfasted at Ellis’s tavern, and next day rode to Richmond and Manchester, and came to Baugh’s, and preached to a congregation mostly women. Thence we proceeded to J. Anderson’s. I was so hoarse it was with difficulty I spoke to the people. In six days we have ridden two hundred and twenty miles.

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We had to ride ten miles to quarterly meeting at Tucker’s chapel.¹ I did not expect to be heard; but, to my great surprise, I had not spoken long before my voice was clear. We had a melting time under brother John Easter; was much blessed with the local brethren. Brothers Wynn² and A—— were recommended to the office of deacons, and ordained. Brother W—— with two others, are appointed to wait on me at the ensuing conference; what for, will then be better known.

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I rode to brother Baugh’s, and the next day preached at Charity Chapel.¹ It was a day appointed by the bishop and committee of the Episcopal Church to be observed as a day of fasting. I feel my mind greatly eased relative to those who have lately separated from us and set out as reformers. Let the Lord look to his own Church.

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We had a serious congregation at Cumberland quarterly meeting: some appeared to be much engaged.

My Sabbath day’s journey was from sister Ligon’s¹ to a new chapel in Prince Edward,² twenty miles, where, after preaching on Matthew 24:12-14, I was led to say a few things for myself: as to my coming to and staying in America—of the exercise of that power which was given by the first and confirmed by the last general conference. Many of the people thought me not that monster I had been represented. I thought this the more necessary here, as great pains had been taken to misrepresent and injure me in this congregation and neighbourhood. So it is; when I am absent some will say what they please of me. After sacrament we came, weary and hungry, to brother Ryall’s, by whom we were kindly entertained. My soul is stayed on the Lord, although Satan will push at me by means of the world, the flesh, and false brethren.

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I preached at brother Tilman’s, on Nottaway River. The people here have been unsettled by the divisions which a few persons have endeavoured to make in our societies.

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Rode from brother N——’s to Salem, and, after preaching to brother Merritt’s, in Brunswick, making it about thirty miles, without eating or drinking.

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I had a few serious souls at Roses Creek.¹ Here I received the happy tidings from John Dickins, that he, with his family, had been preserved during the late contagion in the city of Philadelphia.

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At Merritt’s chapel; the weather was rainy and uncomfortable, and brother Ellis very unwell. The next day I rode from brother F——’s, about twenty miles, to preach a funeral discourse on the death of our dear brother Cox. The Lord’s power was present. Brother Philip Bruce¹ preached at Jones’s chapel on “Sowing to the flesh.” I was happy in God at brother Paup’s, in the evening. The next day I stayed at the chapel until it appeared as if I was well nigh chilled through, and to cure me had to ride twelve miles to brother Moss’s²; thence twenty miles to brother Bonner’s, where I met several of the brethren in great peace and love. Came to J. Smith’s,³ and had a good season on Ephesians 4:22-25. The seeds of discord have been sown here, but they have not taken deep root. Several of the preachers came in, and we spent the evening, and were happy together.

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Hasted to Petersburg.¹ Came in a little before noon, and preached on Isaiah 66:4, 5.

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Monday, 25, and the following days, were spent in conference. The preachers were united, and the Lord was with us of a truth. There were fifty-five preachers present. I had some difficulties respecting the stations; but there was a willingness among the brethren to go where they were appointed, and all was well.

Our disaffected brethren have had a meeting at the Piney Grove, in Amelia circuit, and appointed three men to attend this conference. One of these delegates appears to be satisfied, and has received ordination amongst us since he was delegated by them; the other two appeared, and we gave them a long talk. My mind has been closely employed in the business of the conference, so that I have slept only about sixteen hours in four nights.

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Rode nineteen miles, and preached at Mrs. Cox’s barn.¹ The next day we reached brother Mooring’s in Surry.

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My mind was in a state of heaviness. I endeavoured to preach on 2 Corinthians 13:5. It is heavy times here; but the work is the Lord’s, and I wish to leave it all to him. In discoursing on the above text I pursued nearly the following method—

I. Such as profess to have experienced religion should examine whether they have not let some fundamental doctrines slip.

II. Examine into the nature and effects of faith—it is the substance of things hoped for, in a penitent state; and the evidence of things not seen, in a justified state.

III. They should know themselves, whether they are seekers, believers, or backsliders.

IV. They should prove themselves, to themselves, to their ministers, the world, and the church of God.

V. That if they have heart-religion, Christ is in them—the meek, loving pure mind of Christ.

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Came to Ellis’s chapel, in Sussex.

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Preached at Lane’s chapel: it was low times and cold weather. Thence to my old friend Moss’s, near Sussex court house. I have lately read Blair’s Sermons,¹ where I find some very beautiful things: they contain good moral philosophy; and his Sermon on Gentleness is worthy the taste of Queen Charlotte; and if money were anything towards paying for knowledge, I should think that sermon worth two hundred pounds sterling—which some say the Queen gave him.

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After tiding several miles out of my way, I came to dear brother and sister Parham’s—two Israelites indeed. I was unwell, yet spent the evening comfortably. Next day I had a long ride to Pelham’s,¹ in Greensville; where I enlarged to a small, serious congregation, on 2 Corinthians 12:15—the grand subjects of the faithful minister’s care.

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Rode through the rain to Woolsey’s barn—now Drumgoole’s chapel.

Next day we had but twenty miles to tide for our Sabbath day’s journey. Came to Roanoke Chapel and enlarged on Ephesians 3:7, 8: in which I showed, 1st, How a minister of Christ is made; 2d. To whom he is to preach; 3d. What he is to preach—namely, the unsearchable riches of Christ; 4th. The humble opinion the ministers of Christ entertain of themselves.

NORTH CAROLINA

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Crossed Roanoak in a flat, with seven horses; but we were mercifully preserved. Came to Warrenton. I had a violent pain in my head, and, my horse’s back being injured, I stopped at Myrick’s, having ridden only twenty miles.

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Came to Louisburg, and held our conference at Green Hills, about a mile from town. Great peace and unity prevailed amongst us. The preachers cheerfully signed an instrument, expressing their determination to submit to, and abide by, what the General Conference has done.

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Our conference rose: it was agreed that the next conference should be held in Petersburg; there the preachers from North Carolina, Greenbrier, the Center and South Districts of Virginia, may all meet, and change properly, and unite together for their own and the people’s good.

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Rode to father P. B——’s. O that the last days of ancient Methodists may be the best! I have a cold and pains; but there is ease in peace, and love, and communion with God.

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We had as many people at father B——’s as we could find room for: I delivered some alarming words from Isaiah 65:2.

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Rode up the Neuse; fed at Tomkins’s, and hasted to the widow Carson’s (about forty miles).

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After riding about twenty-six miles to R——’s, I gave them a short discourse on, “The foundation of God standeth sure”: after eating, we had to ride sixteen or eighteen miles in the evening home with brother M’Gee.¹ In the morning we crossed Deep River, in a flat, not without danger; thence down Caraway Creek to Randolph town; thence to Uwharrie at Fuller’s Ford. Here we were assisted by some young men with a canoe. Thank the Lord, both men and horses were preserved! The young men sometimes prayed and sometimes swore. After riding three miles, came to Wood’s, but Russel’s was the place of preaching, where I found some who had heard me in Virginia many years past; I laboured to speak, although my throat was very sore: the hearts of the people appeared to be cold, as well as their bodies.

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I had to ride thirty miles by two o’clock; but was so poorly I declined preaching. Saturday and Sunday I spent at John Randle’s: I gave place to brothers George M’Kenney¹ and Jonathan Bird.² On Sunday evening, I gave the family a discourse at Wyatt Randall’s.³

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Crossed Rocky River: this is a bold stream; it rises in Mecklenburg (County), North Carolina, and, after running eighty or ninety miles, empties itself into Pee Dee, a little below Montgomery. SOUTH CAROLINA

Came to Blakeney’s,¹ on the waters of Lynch’s Creek: here I preached to about forty people; it being Christmas day.

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We crossed various branches which empty into Pee Dee about ten miles below Port’s Ferry: we passed the hanging rock to J. Horton’s.¹

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We set out at sunrise: the weather was cold and frosty: we made it twenty-two miles to Camden. After dinner we crossed the river, and came to Marshall’s.¹

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We set out very early, and came through pine and oak barrens, twenty-five miles: about one o’clock I was willing to sit down and rest. I have lately felt all the grace I had put to trial: through mercy I am kept from sin, and long to be perfect in faith and patience, love and suffering: I am sometimes tempted to wish to die; but I fear it is wrong: I rather choose to wait the Lord’s time.

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With some difficulty I attended at the meeting house near Marshall’s.

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We rode forty-five miles to brother Cook’s,¹ on Broad River; and the next day to brother Finch’s: here we are to have about thirty preachers from South Carolina and Georgia.² We were straitened for room, having only twelve feet square to confer, sleep, and for the accommodation of those who were sick. Brother Philip Bruce was attacked with the dysentery.

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