January 1, 1792 — to Thomas Haskins

The Library of Congress, Washington, D.C., is the depository of Haskins’ Journal. This letter is included in his Journal. Asbury is defining some of the powers of the district conference. It is not clear what is referred to in Haskins’ description of a bishop. CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

January 1, 1792¹

[TO THOMAS HASKINS]²

My very dear Son:

You will be pleased to observe the district conference must say who are proper superannuated preachers. Almost every irregularity is charged upon me if done in conferences by displeased men. In this city it is said I was partial to a Dickins,³ and a Willis,⁴ the same may be said respecting you. I am willing the matter should rest with the men it is committed to. It is not safe for me to interpose what I think will be hidden. Why did not you get a place for your description of a Bishop? I think the ideas [were] just and wish they had been sent abroad. My greatest concern is to see you grow in grace, and extend in usefulness. As to having a seat in a district conference, there can be no great danger, as laws are not made there; it is only the liberty of speaking and voting for an elder or deacon. I am going to Georgia and hope to return about the middle of February. Shall be pleased to hear of your welfare. My dear Sister, I hope will live to be perfect in love, and through suffering. I have powerful impressions of a great work this year through all the states; help, Brother, help. The devil’s spell and charm is broken greatly from the conferences. Oh let us live and love and pray the Lord will be with us in a manner we have not seen here before. Thine as ever,

F. ASBURY.

P.S. My respects to Mr. Bassett⁵ if in the city.

Manuscript Division, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.