December 6, [1784] — to His Parents

This letter was dated December 6 but without a year. However, it was written shortly after the arrival of Coke and Whatcoat, who landed at New York on November 3, 1784. On the bottom of the letter, it was written by another that the letter was written after the ordination. However, Asbury was ordained at the Christmas Conference.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

December 6, [1784]

[TO HIS PARENTS]

My dear Father and Mother:

I write a few lines to let you know I am in health. My soul more than ever waits for God, and is filled with zeal for his glory. I have seen the lightening down of the power of the Lord and expect to see greater things yet. I was thankful to God that I heard of your welfare by Brother Whatcoat¹ who is safe arrived to help us. I was made joyful above measure at the arrival of our British Brethren. We are greatly rejoiced that if we are not worthy to have Mr. Wesley, (whom our Preachers and people venerate if possible, more than the Europeans,) we are favoured with the man of his right hand, Dear Dr. Coke,—if only for a few months. I hope you cleave to God wholly, and are in great earnest about your souls. Oh may you ripen fast for glory! This is the wish and daily prayers of your unworthy son, and souls real friend,

F. ASBURY

P.S. I hope to send a little supply about Christmas, in an order to Mr. Atlay, London. Hearing it is matter of grief to you for me to write to others and not to you I shall write often and short.

Drew University Library