1799

Our yearly conference assembled at Charleston. We kept our seats for four days; thirty preachers present. We had great harmony and good humour. I gave a short discourse, addressed to the conference, from Hebrews 13:17.

I. Your guides—consequently governors. These how needful in the night, if there be ignorance in the traveller, and danger in the way, deep pits, wild beasts, or bad men. If it be in the morning, or noon-day, how natural it is to follow a guide; how necessity and fear, upon the part of the traveller, will make him obedient.

II. People are to be led into essential truth, duty, and experience. III. Ministers are to watch for their souls as they that must give an account—the general and special accountability to God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit, to the ministry, and to the Church, and to all men; they must give an account for the loss of the Christian traveller, if that loss be a consequence of neglect in the guide. The joy faithful ministers have in the prosperity, spirituality, and happiness of the Church; their grief or groaning, when so far from gaining other souls, they lose some already partially gained; how much the interest of souls is concerned in the prosperity of the ministry. Pray for us: the great duty of the flock. The argument: We have a good conscience: that this being the case, their prayers might be answered. Live honestly, do our duty faithfully, and take what is allowed us as wages—paying our just debts to souls. I ordained three elders and seven deacons. The generosity of the people in Charleston was great. After keeping our ministry and their horses, they gave us nearly one hundred dollars for the benefit of those preachers who are in want.

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Very cold, sleet in the streets, and dangerous walking. We had a solemn sacramental season; and a goodly number of “Ethiopians stretched out their hands to the Lord.”

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My time has been chiefly taken up in composing and selecting from Cave’s Lives of the Fathers,¹ showing the primitive episcopacy. We are laid up for winter, when it is like summer.² I hope to labour upon the Lord’s day in the churches, so called.

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I preached at Bethel:¹ my subject was Mark 11:17: “And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.” At the old church my subject was 2 Peter 1:16. A group of sinners gathered around the door, and when I took the pulpit they went off with a shout: I felt what was coming. In the evening there was a proper uproar, like old times. I employed the last week in reading, writing, visiting, and attending feasts of charity; one with the white society and the other with the Africans.

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I preached in the morning at Bethel, from Hebrews 13:20, 21.

I. It was a prayer: as he, Paul, had asked their prayers, he gave them his. II. “The God of peace”: the gracious relation of the Hebrews as reconciled to God.

III. “Brought again from the dead”; when it might be thought, all was lost when Jesus was dead; again he had brought the Hebrews from a state of death in trespasses and sins.

IV. This was more than bringing the apostle to them, although he might be given to them of God to their prayers.

V. “Great Shepherd of the sheep”—all the sheep, Jews and Gentiles. The Shepherd of the shepherds; doing really, what they, under-shepherds, do instrumentally: he seeketh, keepeth, feedeth, and watcheth his ordained flock against those who would steal or kill them, and alienate them from Jesus, or the true fold, and faithful pastors.

VI. “Through the blood of the everlasting covenant”: see Exodus 24:3; Moses said, Behold the blood of the covenant, when he sprinkled the people; it is this that meriteth, sealeth, and sanctifieth. VII. “Make you perfect in every good work”—as to the quantity and quality of good works: and,

Lastly, “pleasing to God”—in gracious affections, purity of intention, and uniformity of conduct; and all by the merit and intercession of Jesus Christ. In the afternoon I preached in Cumberland street meeting house on Deuteronomy 4:9.

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Once more, through divine assistance, we left Charleston, and came twelve miles to brother Jackson’s¹; where we rested one day.

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By riding until ten o’clock in the night, we came, fifty miles, to Mr. Boon’s.¹ On Saturday I rode alone to Georgetown: we have made it nearly eighty miles from Charleston to this place. I preached on Galatians 5:24-26: First, They that are Christ’s in a special spiritual sense: his sheep, redeemed, sought, and saved; his children, bearing his image. Secondly, How they are to be distinguished: they crucify the flesh with the passions and desires thereof; the sinful love of the world, with the sinful fear and joy also. Thirdly, Let us walk in the Spirit, as an evidence that we live in the Spirit. Fourthly, Let us not be “desirous of vain glory”; in forms, ordinances, or any outward appearances of men and things. Fifthly, Let us not by such mean measures “provoke one another,” or envy one another. In the afternoon I preached on Isaiah 66:5.

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Was an uncomfortable day; so we did not ride.

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We crossed Black River, at Gadsby’s ferry: the bridge over one of the natural canals was broken; we had presence of mind to loose the long reins of the bridle: brother Lee put the horse through the ford, and I met him on the other side, and guided him out safe. This day we made it nearly forty miles to W. Rogers’s, near Kingston.

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We rode in a cold day, thirty miles, to dear brother Hawkins’s, upon Little River, crossing Wacawman at Star Bluff. NORTH CAROLINA

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I preached at the meeting house, from Luke 4:18, 19; and came the same evening to father William Gause’s,¹ where I preached, on

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Friday, 8, upon Romans 5:1-5, we had a living season here. I paid a visit to the sea, and saw the breakers—awfully tremendous sight and sound! but how curious to see the sea gull take the clams out of the sand and bear them up into the air, and drop them down to break them, and then eat the flesh! This I saw demonstrated; and if they fail once in breaking the shell, they will take it up again, and bear it higher, and cast it down upon a hard spot of ground, until they effect their purpose.

We are now in Bladen circuit, Brunswick county, North Carolina. I have travelled nearly four hundred miles in the Southern States, and spent three months therein. We rested on Saturday, 9, and on

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We attended at Shallot church; my subject was Acts 14:22. I showed, First, That the souls of the disciples must be confirmed in doctrine, experience, practice, and discipline of the Gospel of Christ in the Church of God. It was observed how plainly these were taught in the oracles of God. I offered some arguments in favour of revelation, to induce a continuance in the substance and exercise of faith through life: through much tribulation entering the eternal kingdom of glory: an object so great is not to be gained without great trials from every enemy, in doing and suffering the whole will of God. The day was so excessively cold, and the house so open, that I was chilled through my whole system. After meeting we rode on to Lockwood’s Folly: here are several young converts.

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We came by Town Creek, where I stopped fourteen years ago; but what a change since then! Stephen Daniel and his wife are no more; but their dear children are coming to Christ, to fill up their parents’ places.

Sister Daniel was an excellent woman. It seems as though old Brunswick in North Carolina, would be a Methodist county, and that most of the rulers would believe in Christ.

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I preached at Sullivan’s, on Town Creek, from Galatians 6:9: the house was crowded with people; there were many children to baptize; but my spirits were sunk, and I had no heart to speak.

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We came on to Wilmington; here I was in low spirits still. This town has suffered by two dreadful fires; but the people are rebuilding swiftly. I was so afflicted in body, that brother Lee had to preach two sermons in the church: the people were very attentive.

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We rode twenty miles to Nixon’s;¹ where I preached a little to a little flock, as there was only a half-day’s notice. Through this day I have been amazingly dejected, although I am abundantly more happy in constitution and feeling than formerly.

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At Stone Bay: no preaching by the Methodists at this place. We lodged at friend Johnson’s: on my last visit I preached here. We made it twenty-seven miles.

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We rode eighteen miles to Lot Ballard’s: here we were at home. It was an excessively cold day; at noon it changed to hail, and terminated in rain. I housed myself; and brother Lee went to the New River chapel to preach to the people.

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Cold as the day was, and unwell as I felt myself, I could not be absent from the house of God: my subject was Acts 3:19. The slaves were not permitted to come into the house. We rode to William Bryan’s, at Bryantown, upon Cedar Creek: and on Monday we held a meeting at Colonel Bryan’s, the father of William.

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We were at Trenton court house; and on Wednesday at Lee’s chapel: my subject here was Micah 6:6-8. I endeavoured to show, First, that it is still the voice of many, “Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, to enjoy his favour and presence, and bow myself before the high God?” that is, worship him acceptably, as though they would give all they have in the world, no sacrifice should be too great; but men are often great in promise, but defective in performance; they promise much and do little. He hath showed thee, O man! what is good—that is, true religion; the blessed effects and fruits of it—do justly and walk humbly with thy God; see Deuteronomy 10:12; Hosea 12:6. First, Do justly according to human laws, and the claims and rights of men with men, as it respects continents, kingdoms, or families. Second, Do justice as it concerns the laws of God—as the second table is a claim of justice to obey parents, and not to take men’s lives nor their wives; to bear a true witness. Third, Do justly, according to the commandments of Christ, Matthew 7:12. “Love mercy,” as it extends to the souls and bodies of men; this requires more than to do justly to them: “walk humbly with thy God”—feel thy total poverty and universal dependence upon God for all things, spiritual and temporal.

We lodged at Mrs. Knight’s, the mother of our dear deceased brother Ahairs, once a travelling preacher amongst us.

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We came to Newbern, originally settled by Germans, and called after old Berne, in Switzerland. For sixteen miles of this road we had heavy rain; but I was well cased up, notwithstanding which I took cold. We have travelled from Charleston three hundred and thirty miles in this our retrograde journey, which we have made longer by frequently turning out of our way.

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My subjects at Newbern were 1 Peter 2:11, 12; Hebrews 7:25; 1 Timothy 4:8. We had very uncomfortable weather. We made some spiritual and temporal regulations, in hopes that matters would work much better in future.

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It was cold to purpose, and we had twenty-four miles to ride to William Cox’s, on Neuse, near the mouth of Contentney: here my text was 1 John 4:16, 17. We hence in a manner fled through the counties of Craven, Lenoir, Glasgow, and Edgecombe.

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I did not attend at the Rainbow meeting house¹ in consequence of my illness, the effect of my riding in the cold the day before.

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I was comforted in administering the sacrament; after which, as the day was damp, I left brother Lee to finish, and rode along sixteen miles to Seth Spaight’s; a deeply distressed man for the loss of his dear wife, who lately departed this life.

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We rode thirty-four miles to brother Toole’s;¹ the rain poured down upon us on our way, and we had to feed under a pine tree.

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We made out to ride ten miles, to Mr. Hodge’s, near Sosson’s bridge, upon Fishing Creek; where we were kindly and comfortably entertained.

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We came to brother Bradford’s¹ quarterly meeting: I was glad, after riding sixteen miles through the damp and severe cold, to sit by the fire.

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I preached a little on 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.

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The generally excessive rains having made the Roanoke impassable at the nearest ferry, we had to ride a circuitous route through Halifax, which made it about thirty miles to Richard Whittaker’s in Northampton. We had a bad swamp to cross, but I kept out of the water. It was well for me my carriage did not upset in the water, which it was very near doing. To travel thirty miles in such a cold day without fire, and no food, except a bit of biscuit, is serious. We were received gladly by our waiting brethren, Whatcoat, Warmer, and Lambeth.¹ I am of opinion that we have left five hundred miles on the other side of the Roanoke, in all the ground we have ridden over from Charleston, in South, to Halifax, in North Carolina. I went to Rehoboth (a new meeting house), and preached on 2 Corinthians 2:14.

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The cold and frost was very severe, and it was with great difficulty we made our way through the swamp from Richard Whittaker’s. We rode to St. John’s chapel, where brother Lee preached upon Romans 5:5. The house being open, I was most severely chilled, and unfit for any public service. We lodged at Williford Horton’s.¹

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We rode to Winton court house; where I preached on Hebrews 3:7. Two-thirds of my congregation were women; perhaps there will be more men when I go there again.

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We rode to Knotty Pine.

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I preached at Knotty Pine chapel, on Genesis 24:17-19: I was elaborate upon personal and family piety. Here I saw sister Baker; she standeth fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made her free, and I hope and believe God will save her children: our souls were mutually blessed.

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At Gates court house¹ many serious people attended: my subject was Hebrews 7:26. I administered the sacrament; and had a solemn, feeling season.

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We rode to Constant’s chapel,¹ on one of the branches of Bennett’s Creek. The main creek affords a landing at Gates court house, and communicates, after a few miles, with Chowan River. I was made very comfortable in soul and body at Isaac Hunter’s;² and had a happy meeting with the poor Africans³ at night.

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The coolness of the weather increases. We rode thirty miles to George Sutton’s, in Perquimans county.

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It both snowed and rained. We had a meeting at a house near Naggshead chapel;¹ where I preached a short sermon from 1 Peter 4:18. We lodged at J. W——’s, a comfortable house, after a very uncomfortable snowy day.

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At Nixonton I declined preaching and made an exhortation, after brother Lee had given them a long sermon. It is probably eight years since I came through this circuit, which caused this people to exert themselves in coming out, so that we had a very large congregation. We have ridden, since we came across Roanoke, one hundred and forty-three miles to John Russell’s. We have moved rapidly through Gates, Chowan, Perquimans, and Pasquotank counties: as we pass we have lovely levels, fine white cedar on the rivers, creeks, and swamps, for between six or seven hundred miles: from the low lands in Georgia, to Blackwater in Virginia, it is fine lumber land, but unhealthy in some places.

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It began to rain heavily, but ceased about twelve o’clock; we then rode to a school house, where many attended: my subject was, 1 Peter 5:10. I had the company of several preachers. I then rode on eight miles to brother William Proby’s; it was good for me to be there. Saturday,

16. I felt greatly depressed in spirit, owing, no doubt, in some measure, to the changeable state of the weather. We crossed the Pasquotank at Sawyer’s Ferry: here we were told that we had but seven miles to ride; but we wandered until we made it twelve. We learned that one of the widow Sawyer’s daughters was lately committed to the dust; at the gate of the yard we found the mother in tears. As I was not able in body or mind to preach, I gave an exhortation; and after we had dined, we rode ten miles to Samuel Simmons,¹ across the North River swamps, which afford as low and as good land as any part of the beech lands of Cumberland or Kentucky. We swiftly passed through Camden and Currituck counties.

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I made a feeble effort to preach at Williams’s chapel, on James 1:24, 25. Our congregation was large. I returned and left brother Lee to finish. We lodged at brother Brunnell’s.

VIRGINIA

On Monday we had a violent storm of wind and snow, which lasted until ten o’clock, and we had a bitter ride of nineteen or twenty miles to James Wilson’s, at Hickory Ground, in Virginia. I was exceedingly chilled on the way, the snow being from six to seven inches deep, and it blew a heavy cold wind.

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I preached at brother Wilson’s, from 1 Corinthians 15:58. I sent my carriage for James Morris (formerly with us), afterward an Episcopal minister, and now near death. He expressed great consolation in God, and love to me. He hath a pious wife, who is the mother of nine children. We lodged with John Hodge, who joined the Methodists in early life. I was pleased to find that the elderly Methodists had put their children to trades to learn to work for themselves. I am in hopes the parents will not leave them their slaves, but manumit them—by will at least.

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At Cuthrell’s, near the great bridge, and near Manning’s, where we preached before the revolutionary war. On Thursday we rode through the rain to Norfolk, where I preached on Friday, from Galatians 2:20: “I am crucified with Christ.” Christ crucified: and Paul crucified after the likeness of Christ, and for Jesus—crucified to the world in afflictions, hopes, and desires. I live—I have had a spiritual birth, and live a spiritual life of faith, love, and holiness; yet not I, as the author of my own birth or life; “Christ liveth in me,”—by his Spirit; “and the life I now live is by faith of the Son of God”;—faith of, and faith in, Christ—”who hath loved me, and given himself for me,”—that is, I know and feel my personal and real interest in, and union with, him.

We had a comfortable sacramental season in Norfolk on Easter day; and at Portsmouth, I spoke on James 5:20. Brother Lee preached on Romans 2:14; 1 Corinthians 9:19-22; 1 Timothy 4:16.

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We rode eighteen miles to George Walker’s, in Princess Anne county, where I, with great labour, preached on Luke 24:46-48. We calculate that we have ridden eight hundred and eighteen miles since we left Charleston.

Tuesday,26. We came to quarterly meeting at Dawley’s meeting house. The day was cloudy, and myself also. As there were four preachers to attend, I stayed at home. On Wednesday there was a most awful storm of rain and wind, which caused us to keep within doors.

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I rode seven miles to Nimmo’s meeting house,¹ where I preached on Hebrews 2:1. The day was excessively cold and the house too. After preaching I rode nineteen miles, having no refreshment for man or horse until we came to James Dawley’s, within two miles of Norfolk, about seven o’clock at night. On Friday we came into town,² and attended quarterly meeting on Saturday and Sunday. My subject on Saturday was Psalm 127:1, and on Sabbath day, James 1:24, 25. I had a painful night after preaching on Saturday, having a small ulcer formed in my breast.

At Suffolk I was addressed by two grand-daughters of my dear aged friend, Benjamin Welden, of James City. I dined with Mr. Whitlock, and after the rain was over rode to William Powell’s, forty miles from Portsmouth.

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I must needs preach at Wells’s, the schism house; the great were there. My subject was 2 Timothy 2:19. We then rode to William Blunt’s. On Friday we were at Moody’s, and on Saturday we came to the house of the widow of Henry Davies. On Sunday I preached at Lane’s chapel, from 2 Timothy 2:15, but it was the dividing of blood from my lungs. On the way I ordained two local deacons.

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We rode thirty miles to Jones’s chapel. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, conference sat in great peace and love. As the house was cold, and I was very unwell, I could not attend. I had about two pounds of blood drawn from me.

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We rode to father Nathaniel Lee’s,¹ and on Saturday, 13, to Frederick Bonner’s, where I rested—a solemn Sabbath.

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By ten o’clock we came to Petersburg; and then rode on and crossed James River, at Woodson’s ferry. We lodged at Keezee’s, having ridden thirty-two miles.

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We came to Philip Davis’s, twenty miles, near Putney, New Kent. I feel low in body, but serene in soul. The brethren in Virginia, in conference, gave it me in charge not to preach until the Baltimore conference. I was willing to obey, feeling myself utterly unable. The houses that we preach and lodge in, in this severe weather, are very open. My breast is inflamed, and I have a discharge of blood.

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I rested at brother Davis’s; and on

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Rode to Benjamin Pace’s, in King and Queen county: these are gracious and kind souls—God is still working in this place; they have one hundred members in society.

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We rode twenty miles to our dear brother Coles’s, in Essex county. We rested on Saturday.

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Attended a meeting at Shephard’s; and then rode to the widow Cox’s.

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We crossed the Rappahannock, at Layton’s ferry, and came to the widow Bombry’s, in King George county. We have ridden upwards of sixty miles in two days, through excessively cold weather for the season.

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We rode thirty-five miles to Ward’s near Dumfries.

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This is the great day of election; and there is no small stir in Virginia, about federal and anti-federal men. We rode thirty miles to William Adams’s; I was much chilled, and very weary.

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The general fast day—I attended at Fairfax chapel; Philip Bruce gave a discourse upon those words of our Lord, “And then shall they fast in those days.” As I was unable to preach, I gave an exhortation from the subject. I find that very small rest, when joined with comfortable accommodation, gives me great strength of body: by this means I might be restored; but I must keep moving. I was caught in a heavy thunderstorm, from which I took cold, and had a high fever and headache; I rested on Friday, at William Watters’s. Saturday, rode to Alexandria. Monday and Tuesday, rode to Baltimore.

MARYLAND

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We opened our conference,¹ which sat four days. We had preaching morning and evening. I gave a short exhortation before the sacrament.

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We rode out to Greenwood,¹ Mr. Philip Rogers’s country seat, who told me that when I was past labour, there was his house as my own. We asked for new wine; but find the old is better: the fermentation is done.

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We rode to Gunpowder Neck; I only exhorted a little, then went on to the bay side.

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The wind was high; I declined, but brother Jesse Lee waited, and crossed in an hour. I rode round, and lodged at Josias Dallam’s: but dear Sally, his wife, is gone! I walked to her grave.

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I had a disagreeable passage across the Susquehanna. At this ferry, recently, three poor blacks have been drowned. I cannot omit relating a circumstance which took place when I was here last. A very large Negro man, an old ferryman, to whom I talked very faithfully, was drowned. I remember to have told him that if he did not take heed and repent, he might be drowned and damned! the former is certain; the latter is to be feared, as it is reported the Negroes were intoxicated. Doctor William Dallam escaped;¹ and what is remarkable, the boat that saved his life was made of wood taken from his father’s plantation. Thursday evening I came to Back Creek well wearied.

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We rode to Chestertown—went to meeting; and I exhorted a little.

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At Churchill church brother Lee preached, and I exhorted. We dined at Mr. Peter T. Causey’s, and rode in the evening to brother Chair’s.¹

Whitsunday, 12. At Centreville, after brother Lee had preached, I feebly exhorted upon “Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God.” We administered the supper of the Lord: I was weary at the end. I lodged at Thomas Wright’s.

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At Tuckahoe a multitude attended; my services were very small.

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At Easton a crowd of people attended; here I could say but very little. We crossed Dover Ferry, and rode to William Frazer’s, in Caroline county; and on Wednesday, 15, held meeting in his dwelling house.

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At Henry Ennalls’s I could only gloss upon those gracious words: “Casting all your care upon him, for he careth for you.”

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I attended Cambridge quarterly meeting; which was held in a barn: I commented a little upon, “We have not followed cunningly devised fables.” Having had but little rest for two or three nights past, I retired with Bartholomew Ennalls, and went on the way to Vienna, to visit Somerset. I rejoiced that Doctor Edward White was standing firm in the grace of God: and that the Lord had blessed the souls of his children.

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It rained plentifully until ten o’clock. We crossed at Vienna: it was very bad ferrying; the wind being against the tide, it raised high swells in the river. I came that evening to Thomas Garrettson’s; we had a very serious congregation at Quantico chapel; I had taken cold and was very unfit to speak at all. We came to Salisbury, where we rested on Monday. Brother Lee preached three times. Here I got bled.

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We came to Annamessex. My horse began to sweat, swell, and tremble—and died upon the road. Brother Levin Moore¹ was with me: we put his horse in the sulky, and both of us rode to Samuel Smith’s.

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I borrowed a horse of Samuel Smith, and crossed Pocomoke, and rode to Littleton Long’s, where I gave an exhortation to a few people. It was a very extraordinary legacy of a living friend that put forty-five dollars into my hands; had I not bought a coat I might have had fifty dollars in my pocket; it would have been a wonder for me to have as much money by me; but one hundred or more might be needful to purchase another horse.

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We rode to Downing’s,¹ where I gave a short exhortation, and on Friday, 24, we came to John Purnall’s;² he is gone to his long home. Here I gave up my borrowed horse, and the only alternative was to put brother Hardesty’s³ horse in the sulky, and wedge ourselves with all our baggage together. We rode by Frederick Conner’s, and made it nearly thirty miles, through excessive heat, to the widow Bowen’s. DELAWARE

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I preached at the chapel, and rode home with brother William Leister, living in the north end of Worcester county. This day we enter the State of Delaware. I have had great dejection of mind, and awful calculations of what may be and what may never be. I have now groaned along three hundred miles from Baltimore.

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After preaching at Johnson’s we rode to the Sound, and lodged at Arthur Williams’s,¹ an aged Methodist preacher. I passed the night in great affliction.

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We came on to Dagsboro just as the stage was about to set off for Milford. I paid the fare, and sent brother Hardesty along. I called upon William Johnson, a gracious soul. We then came into Milford about eight o’clock, after riding forty-three miles. Here I rested a day.

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I must needs ride twenty miles back to Lewes, principally to see the people.

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Returned back to Milford. I had taken cold. I ordained three deacons and exhorted a little.

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Saturday, June 1, was a very cold day; we rode to Dover; the crowds of people were painful to me; I ordained two deacons; was confined in meeting four hours, and attempted to preach, but could not.

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After meeting, I rode to Duck Creek Cross Roads, and called at Doctor Cook’s to see Thomas White’s children. Doctor Anderson, Doctor Ridgeley, and Doctor Needham considered my case; they advised a total suspension from preaching, fearing a consumption or a dropsy in the breast.

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I ordained one person at the Cross Roads, and another at Dickinson’s meeting house. I dined with Mr. Moore near the Appoquinimink bridge, and then rode on to Wilmington; we have made forty miles this day. What with labour and fevers my rest is greatly interrupted.

PENNSYLVANIA

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We held our conference in Philadelphia. I retired each night to the Eagleworks, upon Schuylkill, at Henry Foxall’s solitary, social retreat.¹ The conference was large, and the business very important. Ezekiel Cooper was confirmed in his appointment by me as our agent in the book concern.²

NEW JERSEY

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After the rising of the conference I rode to Burlington; and on Thursday, 13, to Milford; on Friday to Mr. Drake’s,¹ near Amboy; and on Saturday to New York.

NEW YORK

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I gave a short exhortation in the John street church; likewise in the North River house. It is an unseasonable day for religion; it is time the conference should come; may Almighty God bless and own their labours to the people!

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We opened our conference for New York, and all the New England States.¹

The conference was crowded with work; consequently I had but little rest, and what added to my pain, was brother Shadrach Bostick’s lying sick in the next room: heat and haste!

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We had a charitable day at all the houses, and collected nearly three hundred dollars: but the deficiencies of the preachers were almost one thousand dollars. I attempted to preach a little on Philippians 4:19; and gave an exhortation at the Bowery church. I met the society at the old church at night. The excessive heat made us wish and haste to leave town.

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Was exceedingly warm; we rode to Sherwood’s; but did not get there in time to meet our appointment.

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We came to the Plains.

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We rode about thirty miles; and came in about ten o’clock at night to Governor Van Courtlandt’s, whose wife is a Shunammite indeed.

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We toiled through the rain over Peekskill mountains to Richard Jackson’s,¹ where we lodged, about eight miles from Poughkeepsie. In the night I was taken with a violent pain in my knee. We have travelled over rough roads, and through great heat since we left New York, about one hundred miles. Feverish and full of pain as I was, I attended meeting and gave an exhortation.

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I rode through heat, twenty-five miles, to Rhinebeck; the pain in my knee subsided. On Sabbath day I preached at the school church upon “Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ.” Brother Jesse Lee gave a sermon on the fruits of the Spirit.

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I rested. My health is somewhat better. I must confess I never felt so great a resolution to resign the general superintendency as I do now; and if matters do not work more to my mind, it is highly probable I shall: my prayers and counsel will be turned this way until next General Conference.

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I visited Mr. Sands’ family; and on Wednesday breakfasted with Mrs. Montgomery at her beautiful retreat. Dined at Mrs. Livingston’s on the manor; an aged, respectable mother of many children. The house, the garden, the river view—all might afford much painting for the pen of a Hervey. Brother Garrettson and his agreeable wife attended us.

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We rode twenty miles to what is called Hudson City; a mere blank.

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Excessively warm: we stopped at Kinderhook,¹ and at Miller’s, time enough to hide from a heavy gust; we then came on to Albany: we have ridden thirty-five miles this day. I received a healing letter from Thomas Morrell; but matters will not easily be done away with me: if it were one or two only that were concerned, it would be but little; but it is hundreds, yea, thousands of travelling and local preachers and official men; and thousands of people also.

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I was awakened at twelve o’clock exceedingly sick, and totally disabled for public service; I was not able to sit up until six o’clock in the evening. I rode two miles out of the city, to Mr. Marks’s.

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Rode to Coeyman’s landing; and then to the stone chapel; here we have the good news of souls converted at prayer meeting. Rode in the rain and damp six miles to brother Blodgett’s, upon Hocketuck,¹ in Albany county and circuit; here also I found the labours of Anning Owings had been blessed in the awakening of some young women. Our congregation was large: I gave an exhortation and a prayer in much weakness of body. We rode back the same evening a few miles to father Waldron’s.²

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I rose at five o’clock, very unwell; but must needs ride in the heat and dust, over hills and rocks, thirty-five miles and came to Crawford’s and Dillon’s¹ about four o’clock: weary as I was, I could not feel satisfied without prayer and exhortation. We have ridden in three days upwards of sixty miles, and held a meeting each day.

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We rode nine miles to Cockburn’s, in Ulster county:¹ here I gave a small exhortation to a small congregation; it was a day of small things; but it may not be so always.

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I rode fifteen miles to Hurley,¹ and stopped at Cornelius Cole’s; no appointments had been made; but we called a meeting in the evening. I rested on Saturday, 13, at Marbletown.

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I was very unwell, and the next day was very warm. I made an attempt to preach on Matthew 25:34-36; a marble-hearted congregation as well as Marbletown; and probably will remain so whilst the love of the world predominates: family prayer, class meetings, and prayer meetings are neglected. Brother Lee preached at Hurley in the evening, and I gave a closing exhortation.

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We rode through dust and heat, without refreshment, twenty-five miles to Degoes; here the people of the house seemed all soul; we could not leave the place until we had called a meeting.

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We rode fifteen miles to Samuel Fowler’s, and dined: we then rode on to meet my appointment at Mr. John Ellison’s.

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Jesse Lee gave an awakening discourse from 1 Corinthians 15:58.

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We rode over hills and rocks, through heat and with hunger, twenty-eight miles, without stopping until we came to Lazear’s,¹ near the Jersey line, Orange county. We have travelled and toiled nearly four hundred miles through this State: weary as I was, I must needs ride five miles farther to Nicholas Simonson’s,² where I was comfortably entertained.

NEW JERSEY

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We came on to Sussex court house;¹ dined, and pushed on to father Freeman’s²—no appointments. At night I was taken with great distress in my bowels, which held me two nights and a day.

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I rode in great pain and heat, hungry and sick, twenty-five miles, to Mr. M’Collock’s:¹ how welcome a good house, kind friends, and a cold day! What is the cause of my affliction? Is it the water, or the weather, or my bilious habit? I am at a loss to know.

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At Colonel McCullough’s. Having been so unwell for some days past, it was enough for me to exhort a little after Jesse Lee had given them two sermons. I was visited in the evening by John Hanna,¹ an aged, social, Presbyterian minister.

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I rose to ride to James Bryan’s, Bucks county, Haycock township, Pennsylvania. We followed Musconetcong Creek¹ to the mouth; we had traced the head branches of it already; it is a most beautiful, useful stream, running through a rich vale into Delaware River, at Hunt’s ferry.² The weather is warm, and the roads uneven; we had a journey of about thirty miles. We have travelled about sixty-five miles through Jersey, and about five hundred in a month.

PENNSYLVANIA

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We rose at three o’clock in the morning, and began our journey at five, over ridges and rocks, twenty-eight miles to Pottsgrove. We did not eat until we came to Coventry. Thirty-six miles is the amount of this day’s journey. O heat, drought, and dust!

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We had a most dreadful time over the mountains to The Forest Chapel; here we found the people much engaged in religion; this was a balm for every sore. We dined at Carberry’s and lodged at Abraham Lewis’s.

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We rode twenty miles to New Holland, and had a sample of bad roads for a sulky. Here some souls have been brought to Christ. I was exceedingly spent for want of sleep and rest. After five o’clock we rode with elder Ware towards Strasburg; night came on and left me two miles from the place in the woods—in darkling shades, a new cut road, and stumpy path. We came in about nine o’clock, having ridden twelve miles. Thank the Lord for whole bones!

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There was preaching in Thomas Ware’s orchard, in Strasburg; we had the respectables of the town, and a large assembly. This place contains, I judge, between sixty and seventy dwelling houses.

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I visited Jacob Boehm’s; God hath begun to bless the children of this family. The parents have followed us nearly the space of twenty years.

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We had a serious earthquake at five o’clock; the earth is growing old; it groans and trembles; which is the necessary consequence of “palsied eld.” I visited John Miller’s; thence we rode six miles to Martin Boehm’s.

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We had a comfortable meeting at Boehm’s church.¹ Here lieth the dust of William Jessop² and Michael R. Wilson.³ I feebly attempted a discourse upon Hebrews 6:12. In the evening we rode to Abraham Keaggay’s,⁴ near the mouth of Pequea Creek.⁵

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After a suspension of rain in some parts, for two, four, six, and eight weeks, we had a gracious moderate rain: on Friday, the rain continued quickening, and thus saving the latter fruits of the earth. I rode to Mrs. Elizabeth Wright’s. We crossed Conestoga¹ at the mouth of Little Conestoga; we had a very uneven path. Mrs. Wright’s family are blessed—all the children profess religion—father and daughter have died in the Lord. Our friends followed us from Pequea.² Martin Boehm³ is all upon wings and springs since the Lord hath blessed his grandchildren; his son Henry is greatly led out in public exercises.

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We rode to Columbia,¹ formerly called Wright Ferry. The excessive warmth of the sun in crossing the water made me sick. We stopped at Drinnon’s; here we met Seely Bunn;² he had very late notice of our coming on Sabbath day. Seely Bunn preached in Little York and Jesse Lee³ in the evening. I gave a short exhortation. Twenty miles made our Saturday’s ride.

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We set off for Maryland: I rode thirteen miles and had my horse fed and shod. We continued on and dined at Littlestown, twenty-five miles, well spent with heat, hunger, and thirst.

MARYLAND

We then rode on ten miles to Taneytown:¹ the inhabitants here, and hereabouts, are chiefly Germans and Romans. We crossed the Maryland line, and lodged at Bentley’s. Next morning we rode on to Jeremiah Browning’s, seventeen miles, before we breakfasted.

It may suffice to say my mind hath been kept in great peace; but I have been greatly afflicted and dejected with pain and labour. We have visited six districts since the sitting of the Baltimore conference; and in four out of the six there is a happy revival of religion; on the eastern shore—in New Jersey—Albany—and Pennsylvania: and we hear a rumour of a revival in the northern district of Virginia.

We attempted a meeting at Lewis Browning’s² at his mill near Woodsboro. In the evening we rode to Liberty, and lodged at Daniel Dorsey’s. O, heat! heat! We have ridden twelve miles this day.

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We held a meeting in the woods near Liberty; the houses were not large enough for our congregation. I visited Eli Dorsey and saw the children of my dear nurse, Sarah Dorsey, and the place where her dust is deposited until the resurrection;¹ O, once lovely features of body and mind! but above all her triumphant death!

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I came eight miles to Edward Owings’, where I received every mark of affection I could desire.

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We rode to Stephen Shermardine’s:¹ it was well we had a short ride of four miles, the weather being so excessively warm. Here we were treated kindly.

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We had a meeting at Fredericktown. I exhorted a little at every one of the above places.

We rode over the Catoctin Mountain to Samuel Philips’s, to see his dear wife, who was very low. The people came together, and John Potts¹ gave them a sermon. It was but little I could give them.

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We rode to Joseph Howard’s, upon Carroll’s manor,¹ where we had a comfortable meeting.

VIRGINIA

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We crossed the Potomac at Noland’s ferry: the river was so low that those on horseback forded it. I came over with the carriage in the flat. I think of nothing less than the resignation of my office of superintendent at the general conference.

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We had a full meeting at Leesburg; many of the brethren and sisters from societies in the country attended; it was the time of court. A company of soldiers collecting attended in good order.

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We rode twenty-eight miles to Charlestown. We had a very rocky, uneven road. We stopped at Key’s ferry,¹ and were kindly entertained. Friday, at eleven o’clock, we held a meeting in Charlestown and then rode on eighteen miles to Millborough.

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We had a comfortable rain; after which we rode on four miles to Winchester. Sabbath day we held meeting and were about five hours in love feast, preaching, sacrament, and exhortation. I rode home with John B. Tilden,¹ seven miles from town.

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We rode to Stephensburg;¹ here we held meeting. Tuesday and Wednesday, 20, 21, it rained. We could not be more welcome at any place, or more richly accommodated than we were at Elijah Phelps’s.

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We rode fifteen miles to Lewistown, where we dined, and then rode on to Pinnell’s. O, the rocks, ridges, and gutters, we had to cross at Chester’s Gap! I would prefer riding two hundred miles upon the lowlands than seventy to Henry Fry’s¹ in Madison.

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We rode twenty miles and dined. We passed Culpepper court house, and came within four miles of Henry Fry’s and stopped at a tavern, after riding in great heat and haste. I was sick: from hard labour, want of rest, and want of coffee, my stomach and bowels were greatly agitated. I need much faith and good water.

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We landed at the mansion, upon the banks of Robertson.¹ Henry Fry may console himself with the last words of David, 2 Samuel 23:1-7. I obtained an extract from Whitby on the Episcopacy of the Early Ages of the Christian Church.

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We preached at the Springs¹ to about one hundred attentive people. I took a bad cold, and was very unwell.

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We rode between thirty and forty miles to John Lastley’s.

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We had a crowded audience at the chapel: likewise at M’Gee’s, on Wednesday; on which day I rode twenty miles and lodged at Richard Ferguson’s. Thursday, at a new house in the woods, I preached on Psalm 84:8; and on Friday, 30, I rode eighteen miles to Hezekiah Arnold’s.

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Saturday, 31, and Sunday, September 1. I attended quarterly meeting at Davenport’s meeting house; and we had large congregations each day; there was a shouting among the people. I attempted to preach upon Hosea 14:4. After meeting I was invited to spend a night at Colonel Fountain’s.

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At Beaver Creek meeting house¹ we had a lively time. I have travelled, since I came into Virginia, through Loudon, Berkley, Frederick, Shenandoah, Culpepper, Madison, Orange, Louisa, and Hanover counties.

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We came to Richmond. Since Friday week we have travelled two hundred miles; to which we may add the labour of our meetings—in common three hours long, and sometimes longer. James O’Kelly hath sent out another pamphlet, and propounded terms of union himself, for the Presbyterians, Baptists, and Methodists. The Presbyterians must give up their confession of faith. The Baptists, if they open a more charitable door, adult dipping. The Methodists must give up the episcopacy, and form of discipline; renounce the articles of their religion, and the doctrine of the Trinity. I ask in turn, what will James give up? His Unitarian errors? Did he think the Protestant Episcopalians beneath his notice? I am now more fully satisfied than ever that his book is not worthy of an answer.

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I left my retreat at John Ellis’s;—a most agreeable, social, solitary situation, within two miles of Richmond. I would have preached within the walls of our new house at Richmond,¹ but the excessive rain we have had of late prevented; I was closed up in an upper room. My subject at Manchester was 2 Timothy 2:19.

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We rode twelve miles to Falling Creek church,¹ where I spoke from Romans 5:12. There is some small stir about religion here.

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We rode twelve miles to Godfrey’s, an aged man that stood alone when Mr. O’Kelly made a rent in the society. God hath blessed our labours here; several souls, with his own children are now, brought to God. My subject here was 1 John 1:6, 7.

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At Maxey’s, my foundation was Matthew 6:6. I observed First, What things we are directed to pray for: Secondly, The rules to be attended to in prayer—the precepts and example of Christ and the saints: Thirdly, The promise: “Your Father that seeth in secret shall reward you openly.”

I put a blister upon my breast. Brother Whatcoat preached at Charity chapel, where we administered the sacrament. We went home with John Hobson,¹ and were treated with every mark of kindness we could desire. On Friday I preached at Smith’s church, dined at Robert Smith’s, and then rode on, in a very warm and dry day, twenty-six miles, to Daniel Guerrant’s, and came in a little after eight o’clock in the evening. I have stretched along through Chesterfield, Powhatan, Cumberland, Buckingham, into Prince Edward county; and this whilst enduring a raw and running blister upon my breast, excessive heat, and with very little rest by night or by day: I would not live always: weary world! when will it end?

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At Lackland’s meeting house I preached on 2 Peter 2:17,

18. And on Sabbath day on Psalm 102:11-14. I felt some special assistance. I lodged at mother Lackland’s. The weather was very close and warm. On Monday we had a curious ride about the hills of Appomatox river, to Robert Martin’s, eight miles.

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We rode twenty miles to Mount Pleasant. I put a blister in the morning to my breast;—but I must go to meeting and preach. Why? because the Presbyterian minister and some of his flock came to hear me: my subject was Zechariah 12:10.

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We rode twelve miles to William Spencer’s,¹ and had a comfortable meeting in his school house; he keeps a Christian school.

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We came fifteen miles to John Spencer’s, near Charlotte court house. We have felt great spiritual affection and fellowship in our meetings this week. Richard Whatcoat attended us through the district with a very sore leg; and myself had a sore breast inside and out.

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I rested at my hospitable home, that hath been so these twenty years, in Colonel Bedford’s day, and now in John Spencer’s: these people have not turned me out of doors, by separation, defamation, or reproach; they have made no such return for my love and labours, although some have done it. I could not be quite idle: I read over one number of my journal, and wrote a few letters.

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I had thoughts of staying at home, as there were no less than eight preachers at the quarterly meeting at Taply’s; however I concluded to go. I gave an exhortation, and returned the same evening: our meeting was held in a dead place; yet we had a lively time.

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I crossed Staunton River, and rode into Halifax county; we made it thirty miles to Hawkins Landrum’s. Tuesday we had a large congregation and an affecting time upon the banks of Banister River: here I saw only two persons that I was acquainted with twenty years ago—they were brother Baker and his wife. I lodged at Robert Chappell’s.

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We rode to Armistead Shelton’s, in Pittsylvania, twenty miles: we stopped to dine, pray and feed our horses, at Clement M’Daniels; the roads were much broken in some places, and it was as much as we could perform to reach Shelton’s by sunset. My mind is calm—my body in better health.

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A congregation of from three to five hundred attended Divine worship: religion declines in this society; we advised close class meetings, week-day prayer meetings, with fasting or abstinence. On Friday we rode twelve miles to Carter’s, where a large company attended; my subject was, “What shall the end be of them that obey not the Gospel of God?”

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We had to travel a most uneven path up Sandy River to George Adams’, twenty miles. Sunday, 29. I attended at Watson’s meeting house, and preached from Zephaniah 3:12, 13. I was much assisted, and much wearied by the time I had baptized several children. I visited our brethren, Trayham and Church,¹ from Maryland, who have been Methodists for twenty-five years, and still not weary in well-doing. NORTH CAROLINA

We crossed Dan River at Perkin’s ferry, entering North Carolina, and came to John Harris’s in Rockingham county,—pious souls from Dorset in Maryland.

By resting at times in this solitary, country life, I have my health better; whilst I am, in some degree, free from the knowledge and care of the Church at large. On Tuesday, at Smith’s meeting house, I gave a short discourse on Hebrews 3:12, 13. We dined at Martin’s, and then came on to father Lowe’s: we have ridden but eight miles this day. At Lowe’s meeting house a large congregation attended; I spoke upon Isaiah 40:1. The heat was very painful. I suppose we congregate from three to six thousand souls weekly; thus, if no more, I can say that my travelling hath brought thousands to hear the Gospel, who, probably, would not otherwise have heard it.

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We rode twelve miles to Covey’s in Guilford county; I thought it best to decline preaching for a few days.

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We rode twelve miles to Mrs. Campbell’s, upon the south fork of Haw River. We had to work our way through the woods. Saturday and Sunday, I attended quarterly meeting at Bethel, upon Belew’s Creek,¹ where I ordained five deacons,² and preached from 1 Timothy 6:11, 12: we had a gracious time. We have ridden only twenty miles in two days. I lodged at M’Daniel’s.

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We rode through Stokes county, and attended meeting at Love’s church,¹ which has glass windows, and a yard fenced in. After Jesse Lee, I added a few words on Hebrews 2:1. We then came up to William Jean’s, near the Moravian Old Town.² We have ridden nearly twenty miles this day. Sitting in meeting so many hours among such a multitude of people, and frequently with a blister on my breast, with the difficulties of driving along broken paths, cause me to be variously tried and comforted.

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We held meeting, and had a multitude of Germans present. I improved a little upon 2 Corinthians 5:13, 14.

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We rode through Salem; here they have lately built a very grand church.¹ The day was cloudy; the rain began to fall upon us about a mile from Captain Markland’s, on Muddy Creek, where we came after riding seventeen miles.

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Close housed; about twelve souls attended, notwithstanding it rained powerfully, to whom I lectured on Hebrews 12:1-4. I had an interview with Samuel Kenmish, the Moravian minister, and visited him.

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At M’Knight’s,¹ a very uncomfortable day: thence we rode on to Hardy Jones’s, fifteen miles.

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I said but little at the Academical school house,¹ now a house for God. I went to see Charles Clayton and wife, who were sick.

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Rode thirteen miles to Whitaker’s church,¹ where I gave a short sermon, on, “Casting all your care upon Him, for he careth for you.” I was both sick and tired.

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We came to Shadrach Dial’s, from Delaware, near Choptank, who in his younger days attended my ministry to advantage. I feel, in general, great weakness of body, but great confidence in God, and constant and near access by prayer. We are now upon Cedar and Dutchman’s Creeks, in Rowan county.

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It rained and we rested. On Wednesday we came, twelve miles, to Beal’s chapel,¹ where, after Jesse Lee had discoursed upon the word of the Lord as a fire and a hammer, I added a few words on “Take heed how ye hear,” whom ye hear, what doctrine ye hear; hear in faith, with prayer, with application, upon all the truths of God. We dined, and then hasted on eight miles to Prather’s, in Iredell county. Directly after crossing Hunting Creek, a little circumstance took place, which, if it had happened in the creek, might have been attended with some disagreeable consequences; it was caused by one of the hooks of the swingle-tree giving way.

At Basil Prather’s chapel, I gave my thoughts upon “Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth:” I fear this will be the case with many souls.

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We came up the ridges, between Rocky and Hunting Creeks, eight miles to John Templeton’s; over a path no sulky ever went before; my testimony was founded upon James 4:2, 3.

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We had a very uneasy ride of fifteen miles, on the borders of Surry county, over to Doctor Brown’s, in Wilkes county. I feel my mind in great peace and resignation, both as it respects the Church of God, and my own soul. The Presbyterians here are much more friendly with the Methodists now than formerly: I dare not say it is policy; it may be piety.

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We rode through a damp, and, in the end, a rainy day, twenty miles to George Gordon’s, near Wilkes court house: we crossed and recrossed the Yadkin River.

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This is my American birthday; I have now passed twenty-eight years upon this continent. Do I wish to live them over again? By no means: I doubt if I could mend it in my weakness and old age; I could not come up to what I have done; I should be dispirited at what would be presented before me.

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We came eight miles to William Trible’s.¹ We had an open time at a barren place, and I felt Divine aid in a short improvement on Galatians 2:19, 20.

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We had a serious, laborious ride of thirty miles to William White’s, Esquire, upon Johns River, Burke county. In this route we had to cross the Yadkin ten times; Elk and Buffalo, each twice. Twenty miles of the path were good; ten miles uneven, with short hills, stumps, sideling banks, and deep ruts. I have renewed my acquaintance with these rivers; they afford valuable levels, with rising hills and high mountains on each side. The prospect is elegantly variegated. Here are grand heights, and there Indian corn adorns the vales. The water flows admirably clear, murmuring through the rocks, and in the rich lands, gently gliding deep and silent between its verdant banks: and to all this may be added pure air. Wednesday and Thursday, 23, 24. Our quarterly meeting was held at William White’s, Esquire, and grand patriarch of this settlement, whose family of children, grandchildren, &c., are numerous, and extensively established here. Jesse Lee sermonized each day. My discourse the first day was, 1 Timothy 4:12-16: Let no man despise thy youth. I. That Timothy should be exemplary to believers, in his words, which formed his conversation; at all times, and upon all subjects,—he that offendeth not with his tongue is a perfect man: in charity, love, and beneficence: in spirit, the spirit of his mind and temper; purity of heart and intention: in faith; justifying, persevering faith; confidence in the sure promises and prophesies of God’s word: attendance to reading; the word of God in the church, in families, in the closet: exhortation; as a gift of God, in which some excel: doctrine; the grand doctrines of the gospel—man’s original rectitude—his fall—the atonement—repentance—justification— sanctification—the resurrection—the last judgment, and final rewards and punishments. The gift that is in thee by prophecy; it is probable, some person, seeing the piety and simplicity of Timothy, had been moved by the Holy Ghost to prophesy that he would be a faithful minister of Christ;—the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. The eldership—here the apostle mentioneth the eldership; and in the first chapter of the second epistle, sixth verse, the laying on or putting on of his own hands upon Timothy. That Timothy and Titus were apostles, and exercised episcopal powers, is plain: they were instructed concerning bishops, elders, and deacons what characters they should be. Titus was left in Crete, and directed to ordain elders in every city. Meditate upon these things: ministers should be men of much meditation and prayer; men of contemplative minds, and ready to give up their mental and bodily powers wholly to the work of the Lord. That thy profiting may appear to all men—in all things belonging to thy ministerial and Christian calling. The second day of the quarterly meeting I exhorted.

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We had to cross and recross the Johns River, and man it over the hills. I came to Connelly’s, twenty-five miles, and dined about five o’clock. I saw a natural curiosity in the mountains:—an old trunk of a poplar had fallen, and four limbs of it had taken root at proper distances from each other, and had grown to be large trees—from fifty to sixty feet high and eighteen inches in diameter.

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I stayed at the house, to read, write, and plan a little. I tremble and faint under my burden:—having to ride about six thousand miles annually; to preach from three to five hundred sermons a year; to write and read so many letters, and read many more:—all this and more, besides the stationing of three hundred preachers; reading many hundred pages; and spending many hours in conversation by day and by night, with preachers and people of various characters, among whom are many distressing cases.

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The morning was damp and cloudy, yet I must needs go to the quarterly meeting, which was held in a very open house. My improvement was the first epistle of John 3:18-22. The meeting lasted five hours.

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We rode about forty miles, and fed upon the path. We came to Daniel Asbury’s, in Lincoln county. I crossed once more at the Horse Ford, where I was formerly in danger of being drowned. At that time the river was high, myself weak, the horse I rode low and young, and we went in at an improper place upon the rocks and amongst the falls of the river. Daniel Asbury, an experienced guide, conducted me across this time; but not without some difficulty. His horse stumbled and wet his feet; and my head began to swim before we got through; and my carriage to pitch over the large stones, and small rocks. I think I bid a final adieu to this ford. If I must try this route again, I am inclined to go by Morgantown, the capital of Burke county.

The winter approacheth—we must hasten South.

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In the morning I rested: in the evening I walked out and preached, that the people might both see and hear me; my subject was 1 Thessalonians 2:11, 12.

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We rode to Williams’s chapel; where Jesse Lee preached. I added a few words. We then hastened to the widow Featherston’s, on Dutchman’s Creek. We have ridden thirty miles this day over very uneven roads. We soon called a meeting after our arrival. SOUTH CAROLINA

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We crossed the south branch of Catawba, and soon after passed the line between North and South Carolinas, into York county. In consequence of our wandering out of our way in the Hickory barrens, we made it thirty miles to Alexander Hill’s;¹ where we held a meeting. God hath blessed the son and daughter of our host, which is better to him than thousands of gold.

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We had a strange route of twenty miles to Josiah Smith’s, on Broad River, Union county. Here we held a meeting.

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We came to Woad’s Ferry upon Broad, at the mouth of Pacolet River, near a small town called Pinkneyville: thence to Spray’s, over Tyger and Hendricks bridge, on the Enoree: we were benighted among the woods. The wagons and waters had made such deep ruts and gullies, that I almost despaired of getting onward, until I thought of the expedient of leaving the carriage, and mounting the horse’s back, by which means I was better able to guide him: we came into Colonel Benjamin Herndon’s about seven o’clock, where we met brothers Blanton, Black, Norman, and Smith.¹

On Sabbath day I commented upon Romans 2:16. According to my enumeration I have travelled one hundred and sixty miles in four days.

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I rested.

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I rode eight miles to Odell’s chapel, Laurens county: it was a damp day, and we had an open house. I lodged at Henry Davies’s, a native of Ann Arundel county, Maryland.

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We came to Zoar chapel; a new, unfinished building,¹ the morning was rainy, yet two or three dozen people attended: we lodged at William Holland’s.

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We rode sixteen miles in haste to attend the funeral of Nehemiah Franks, an aged man, who, we hope, died in the Lord: Jesse Lee preached the funeral sermon; after which I made an improvement upon Joseph’s prophecy, Genesis 50:24: “And Joseph said unto his brethren, I die; and God will surely visit you.” I made some observations on his typical and gracious character; his early piety, his persecution from his brethren, his scenes of adversity, imprisonment, exposure to death, and slavery; his piety in prosperity and worldly honour; an example for us; how God visited the Israelites, and how he hath visited the people of America. Saturday and Sunday. Quarterly meeting at Bramblet’s;¹ I made a discourse upon Titus 2:3; we had a good season. I only gave an exhortation on the Sabbath. We are now at the widow Bramblet’s, ten miles from the widow Frank’s.

Benjamin Blanton came up with us sick; his famous horse died of the staggers; he reported two hundred and sixty dollars; and he had received from the connexion in four years two hundred and fifty dollars. If we do not benefit the people we have but little of their money: such is the ecclesiastical revenue of all our order.

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We rode, sick, weary, and hungry, through a most barren country. Jesse Lee stopped to preach at Colonel Wolfe’s; I rode on to the Tumbling Shoals Ford, upon Reedy River; thence on to William Powell’s,¹ upon the banks of Fair Seluda; I came in as usual, sick indeed, after riding thirty miles—jolting over the roots, stumps, holes, and gullies.

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Rode five miles to King’s chapel;¹ there were six travelling preachers present: the house was very open, and the two sermons and love feast held three hours: I was chilled exceedingly; my subject was Ephesians 5:1-3.

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We rode westward sixteen miles, to Warwick Bristoe’s, where we held meeting, and then rode to Berry’s ford; thence to Thomas Terry’s,¹ a Yorkshire Methodist, whom I married seven years ago to Ann W. Dowell, his present good wife, from a Methodist stock on the mother’s side in Ireland.

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We rode ten miles to the Golden Grove, at Cox’s meeting house;¹ my subject was 1 John 2:20. It is agreed that this is the best society we have in South Carolina: the land here is rich. We lodged at deacon Tarrant’s. On Friday we crossed Saluda at Wilson’s ferry, and rode fifteen miles to Thomas Willingham’s, upon the Indian lands.²

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We rode ten miles to Nash’s meeting house, in Pendleton county; where I glossed upon Colossians 1:27, 28. I was much affected with the faces and manners of this people. Mr. James Nash is not, nor any of his family, in fellowship with us, but are our most kind friends: we were used in the very best manner, and this was more abundantly acceptable; friends in need are friends indeed. We had to preach in an open house; it was a summer’s day; we had a love feast and sacrament: my subject was 2 Peter 2:9; the congregation was very large.

GEORGIA

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We rode twenty-six miles into the state of Georgia, crossed Rocky River, properly so called, likewise the Savannah at the Cherokee Ford: it was wide, deep, and there were large rocks in it, and I had no guide; however, we came safe to William Tait’s¹ in Elbert county. Little did I think I should ever visit Georgia again, much less the frontiers of it. It was a rainy day; but I was kept dry in the felicity;² not so with brothers Lee and Blanton.

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We attended at Tait’s chapel,¹ in the Forks: it was a cold day. I gave a short exhortation on Revelation 21:7. I passed a night with Charles Tait,² formerly of Cokesbury, and was made exceedingly welcome and comfortable.

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Rode twenty miles to Coldwater;¹ in a cold day, and held meeting in a cold meeting house, but we had a warm-hearted people. I gave a brief sermon upon Ephesians 5:8: “Walk as children of light.” We lodged at, and were comfortably entertained by, Ralph Banks.²

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We rode sixteen miles, sometimes through the naked woods, to Redwine’s; where we had an unexpected congregation in the solitary woods. I held forth on “The Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” The house was open, but the people were simple-hearted and very kind.

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We came sixteen miles, to Carroll’s meeting house; a new log cabin in the woods. Some of the people of the congregation are from the east and west parts of Maryland. I felt that the Lord was with them. We have the kitchen, house, and chamber all in one, and no closet but the woods.

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At Park’s new cabin chapel, after riding eighteen miles, I exhorted. We lodged at Stephen West Brook’s.

Sabbath day. Still at Park’s chapel: I preached upon 2 Corinthians 6:1. I doubt if there were ever twice as many crowded in so small a house— some stood upon the benches, and others upon the floor: public and private meeting held five hours. We afterward had to ride ten or twelve miles to lodge at George Christian’s. We travelled through Elbert, but mostly in Franklin county. We have crossed about thirteen branches of Broad River. Three of them, which rise near the head branches of Oconee, are large. The land is not very fertile, except what lieth upon the water-courses.

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We were detained by rain in the morning, but set off at nine o’clock, and came in at half-past one, after riding twelve miles to Charles Wakefield’s, in Oglethorpe county—so called after the first governor of the state or province. Benjamin Blanton could go no farther, but went to bed with a high fever. I desired Jesse Lee to attend the appointments over the Oconee. We had the appearance of the beginning of winter, and were in a cold cabin, but with kind people.

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We came six miles to Cornelius M’Carty’s. Here we had to drop anchor again: brother Blanton could go no farther this day; and as there were three of us in company, and one who was well able to do the work, I felt it my duty to do as I would be done by, and have been done by, that is, to stay and take care of the sick man.

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After brother Blanton had been very ill, and in bed most of his time, I housed him in my carriage, and we proceeded down the Oconee, twelve miles, to Burrel Pope’s, after a heavy siege through the woods, from one plantation to another, on brother Blanton’s stiff-jointed horse, that I would only ride to save souls, or the health of a brother. Our accommodations compensated for all. I admire the soft soil of Georgia, and it is pleasant to see the people ploughing on the last of November, as if it were the month of April. The weather was very cold on Thursday and Friday. Saturday I rode seven miles up to Hudson’s ford, at the mouth of Trail Creek, to have a sight of Oconee River. Jesse Lee visited the forks of the river, and formed a circuit for one preacher. The land upon the river is good. I returned to Henry Pope’s.

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The weather still continues cold. At the new meeting house my subject was Hebrews 3:12-14. There appears to be more wealth than religion here.

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We rode twelve miles, in a very damp day, to the widow Steward’s: we had a large congregation for the day and place. The widow’s house stands upon a line between Green and Oglethorpe counties.

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At Greensborough, in a large meeting house built by and for the Presbyterians, we held meeting. We lodged at William Ufton’s. We have travelled in two days about thirty-two miles. The badness of the weather and my constant uneasiness have injured me much: I have spoken very little in public: I drag along exceedingly heavy. It is serious work to be driving through the back settlements, and having open meeting and dwelling houses, in the winter season.

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At Burke’s meeting house Jesse Lee preached, and I exhorted upon the importance of the ministry, and ordained brother Watts a local deacon. We lodged at John Crutchfield’s; where we had a gracious family meeting.

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We moved along in a cloudy, damp, cold day, fourteen miles to Little Britain, a log pen, open at the top, bottom, and sides: a few people attended: my subject was Matthew 7:8.

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We rode fifteen miles, through a heavy rain, to Hill’s meeting house, upon Long Creek, where six or seven preachers, with a few people attended: my subject was Hebrews 10:32. Hope Hull, Josias Randall, S. Cowles, and William Partridge came a long way to see me; we had a family meeting at mother Hill’s. It is about twenty years since I first visited this house.

Saturday and Sabbath day, 7, 8. We held our quarterly meeting at Mark’s meeting house: I had dreaded this appointment. I had some pain and some pleasure. The state of religion is low here. Hope Hull preached on Saturday upon Jeremiah 10:8: we had some signs to show that life had not entirely departed, in the love feast and sacrament. Benjamin Blanton preached Sabbath day, from Isaiah 28:8, and I gave a gloss upon Joshua 14:8: “Nevertheless, my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt; but I wholly followed the Lord my God.” In the introduction peculiar attention was paid to the dealings of God with Israel from the beginning to the end; the influence pious characters had in the case before us, two prevailing against ten; that the well-being of future generations required that a decided tone to the morals, manners, and religious opinions should be given by the first settlers of the country. The weight of the discourse was opened in two divisions: First, what God had done for many Christians; Secondly, Their unfaithfulness and complaints (like the Israelites), and their bad influence upon the camp of Israel, as at the present day.

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We rode twenty miles to Hope Hull’s, near Washington, in Wilkes county.

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Tuesday, 10, we rested; and on Wednesday, 11, I gave a discourse at Coke’s chapel upon Galatians 6:9. The rain began as we closed the meeting. I dined at David Merriweather’s, and rode home with Thomas Grant that evening, and was detained on Thursday and Friday in consequence of a rain.

We have had an exceedingly heavy rain—the Little River was impassable; but I was kindly and comfortably provided for. I lament the state of religion in these new settlements. New lands, new officers and new objects occupy the minds of the people. I invented a continental general plan of movement through the Eastern and Western States, not much short of seven thousand miles.

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I made an attempt to reach Philips’s bridge, but was soon stopped by a creek. Thence we went to a mill-dam, full of holes and rolling stones. I did not choose to risk the overturning of the carriage into the millpond or the creek; so I returned to David Merriweather’s, and appointed a meeting at Coke’s chapel, and upon the Sabbath day gave them a long, weighty talk, upon 1 Corinthians 7:29.

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We had to take the rain and mud upon the Augusta road; the wagons had been detained by high water; men and wagons were very heavily loaded with rum. We rode twenty-four miles, and were kindly entertained at William Shield’s.

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Rode ten miles to James Allen’s, and behold, neither the man nor his wife was at home; the day was far spent, and it was raining, so we stopped.

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Before we could get ready to move, it began to rain powerfully. We came down the Augusta road, gouged up by wagons in a most dreadful manner, in consequence of which we were five hours in going twelve miles to Thomas Haine’s, upon Uchee. I had great intestine war, having eat but little; but here we have all things comfortable. I doubt whether we shall be able to cross Savannah River in five days from this time; the former freshet being increased by latter rains. Thursday and Friday we rested. Saturday, 21. We rode to M’Gee’s to attend an appointment; but the rain prevented the people from coming.

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We came into Augusta town. I went in the morning to hear a sermon, and in the afternoon I gave one upon Hebrews 2:1. We have preached several years in this town, but with little success: we want a house of our own here.

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On Monday, 23, the waters were much assuaged. Augusta town is greatly improved in houses since I was here last. The boat trade from Savannah is very considerable. After waiting an hour on the banks of the river, we crossed, and came in about sunset, after riding twenty-two miles to Cooper’s, in the pines.

SOUTH CAROLINA

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We came twenty-three miles to Chester’s,¹ the best entertainment we could find: it was but for a night. Christmas-day, 25. We rode twenty-three miles to a pole meeting house, near Trotty’s; thence ten miles to Jacob Barr’s:² here I was once more at home.

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We rode down Edisto River, which was much swelled by the late rains; I dined at Murray’s;¹ we then proceeded up the stream to Mr. Hall’s: we have ridden twenty-five miles this day.

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We crossed at Fourhold’s bridge, which was scarcely passable, the water being deep, and spread out upon the low land nearly three-quarters of a mile.

I came accidentally to my appointment at the Cypress chapel.¹ My text was 1 Timothy 2:5: “For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” I. The great disproportion there is between a holy God and a fallen mankind. II. The absolute, indispensable necessity of a Mediator in nature and office.

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I never knew worse roads. I needed one to hold on one side of my carriage to prevent my being overset in the mud. Sabbath day I preached in the old church,¹ upon Psalm 118:24, 25. On Monday and Tuesday we had a little rest.

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