June 28, 1799 — to His Mother

Some of the difficulties of getting mail in the early days are shown here. His mother had written a letter each year. She has made up her mind not to come to America.

STATE OF NEW YORK¹

June 28, 1799

[TO HIS MOTHER]

My very dear Mother:

I have received yours dated in the years 1798 and 1799, both in the same week. Letters coming to me are landed at one end of the continent, when I am at the other, and are sent after me; but before they arrive, I am gone. I am thankful to God that my dear father died in peace; and that my mother yet lives, to serve God, and his ministers and people. I gladly consent to your refusal to come to America. You might find yourself disappointed, as many have done, in coming to this continent. If my way were opened to return, my difficulties would be great, in crossing the seas at this time of general distress of nations, the sea and the waves roaring, men’s hearts failing them for fear of those things which shall come upon the earth, when the nations are destroying each other by thousands in a day, if not an hour. I am satisfied in your living alone, if you have such kind and watchful neighbours. My love and kind respects to them, for their attention to you. The coming of Christ is near, even at the door, when he will establish his kingdom. He is now sweeping the earth, to plant it with righteousness and true holiness. My eyes are weak enough, even with glasses. When I was a child, and would pry into the Bible by twinkling fire-light, you used to say, “Frank, you will spoil your eyes.” At that time, I sought the historical letter. I knew not the hidden pure light and life. It is my grief that I cannot preach as heretofore. I am greatly worn out at fifty-five; but it is in a good cause.

I am as ever, your dear son in the Gospel,

FRANCIS ASBURY

Drew University Library