February 12, 1791 — to Bishop Coke

Coke was again on the way to America, but his vessel had been wrecked, and he was late in arriving. Asbury is giving a report of the progress of the “church in the wilderness.” Of special interest is his account of himself.

GEORGE TOWN, S.C.

February 12, 1791

[TO BISHOP COKE]¹

Reverend, and most dear Sir:

If yet in time,² this brings greeting. Rejoice with me that the last has been a year of general blessing to the church of God in this wilderness. We humbly hope two thousand souls were born of God, one of which is well ascertained in New Jersey and New York. East, west, north and south the glory of God spreads.

I have served the church upwards of twenty-five years in Europe and America. All the property I have gained is two old horses, the constant companions of my toil, 6 if not 7,000 miles every year. When we have no ferry-boats, they swim the rivers. As to clothing, I am nearly the same as at first; neither have I silver, nor gold, nor any property. My confidential friends know I lie not in these matters. I am resolved not to claim any property in the printing concern. Increase as it may, it will be sacred to invalid preachers, the college, and the schools. I would not have my name mentioned as doing, having, or being anything but dust.

I soar, indeed, but it is over the tops of the highest mountains³ we have, which may vie with the Alps. I creep sometimes upon my hands and knees up the slippery ascent; and to serve the church, and the ministers of it, what I gain is many a reflection from both sides of the Atlantic. I have lived long enough to be loved and hated, to be admired and feared.

If it were not for the suspicions of some, and the pride and ignorance of others, I am of opinion I could make provision by collections, profits on books, and donations in land, to take two thousand children under the best plan of education ever known in this country. The Lord begins to smile on our Kingswood school.⁴

One promising young man is gone forth, another is ready; and several have been under awakenings. None so healthy and orderly as our children; and some promise great talents for learning. The obstinate and ignorant oppose among preachers and people; while the judicious for good sense and piety, in church and state, admire and applaud.

I am, with most dutiful respect as ever,

Your son in the Gospel,

FRANCIS ASBURY

Samuel Drew, Life of the Rev. Thomas Coke, LL.D., 234-35