April 29, 1800 — to Francis Asbury

A Letter from Mrs. Asbury to Francis Asbury

Included here is a letter from Eliza Asbury, Francis’ mother. It was written for her by Sam Barkley, the preacher at Barr. Asbury’s father died in 1798, and she was living in Richard Longmore’s home. As Asbury’s letters frequently inquired about old friends, his mother is naturally giving him the news. She signs herself Eliza instead of Elizabeth.

GREAT BARR, ENGLAND

April 29, 1800

[TO FRANCIS ASBURY]

My very dear Son:

May Israel’s God (whose you are, and whom you love) bless you in your body, soul, and labours, Amen. Your welcome letter from Charles-Town, South Carolina, dated January 21st came duly to hand, and found me very poorly. My legs and feet swelled much, and I was very sick and faint: and I began to think my Heavenly Father was about to call me home, and I bless His holy Name I was quite resigned to His blessed will to go, unless He saw that by staying a little longer, I could promote his glory. However through Mercy, I am now much better. I can wear my own shoes, and go about again, only the affliction has left me weaker than I was; but I trust that I shall get a little more strength.

I rejoice that the Lord has supported you as He has, these many years. It is not to be wondered at, that you find some infirmities after so much and so long-labour and fatigue. However, you are still in good hands, and the great head of the church will dispose of you to His glory. Should you see your native land before I am removed: you may well think, I should rejoice to embrace you. But this I leave with Him who cannot err. I sincerely thank you for your care toward me. What you sent for my support the last year, came duly to hand. Your Aunt Sarah Rogers has been dead some time. I am glad the good work is going on in that New World. You began to meet the people at Sutton in July 1764. You was born in August 1745. I am glad that Joseph Pirkins is doing well in temporals: may he be more in earnest for salvation.

Edward Jordan and his wife are well, and desire their most affectionate love to Mr. Henry Foxall and his wife (if alive). They are very glad to hear of his welfare of body and soul: and would esteem it a singular favor to receive a letter from him soon. His brother John is gone into Wales, and does exceeding well both in spirituals and temporals. He still continues to receive the preachers. His brother Benjamin (at the Wrenn’s nest) has a concern for his soul and earnestly wishes to get the preachers to his house. James Stokes is very poorly indeed. He has been for a year very low in his mind, and past business. His mother desires that his uncle will pray for him, and that he will not fail to write.

We have had some revival in Walsall: where our preachers meet with some kind friends. I live in Richard Longmore’s house; and have lived there about 20 years. Elenor Rogers has been dead about a year: John is well, but not married again. Phebe Smith is alive and her husband; they are old people. Sarah Weston has been dead some years: and her husband also. We are going on pretty well at Barr: the congregations are pretty good. Sam Barkley, our preacher who writes this, desires his most affectionate love to you and Brother Whatcoat.

I remain in dear love, your ever affectionate mother,

ELIZA ASBURY

Methodist Historical Society of the Baltimore Conference (Lovely Lane Museum)