June 3, 1802 — to George Roberts

George Roberts had been moved from Baltimore; and the

appointments for 1802 show Philadelphia, Thomas McClaskey and George Roberts. The Journal indicates that McClaskey and

Roberts moved that the brethren who had bought the Academy in Philadelphia be offered a preacher. The conference agreed. It seems that Roberts was appointed to the new Academy Church. Asbury seems to be threatening to move Roberts to New York. NEW YORK, N.Y.

June 3, 1802

[TO GEORGE ROBERTS]¹

My very dear Brother:

I am of one mind. Who can turn me. I heard by the private owners that you were to be restricted to the Academy.² I utterly disapprove the motion. You must not only be free, but faithful, to preach at any time or place, for our other congregations. If the others can not cool off, we must submit to future awful consequences. What, you confined in your labours to 100 in society and 1000 in congregation when you may preach to 10,000 or more by going into other churches? If you come to [New] York, I shall, and I doubt not but the society will provide for and gladly receive you. It is almost reduced to a certainty that this conference will advise me to visit the Eastern Conference, and if they do, I shall submit. Nicholas,³ will go upon my appointment, and it will keep me within call till August. I doubt if the station in [New] York will be completely filled till 3 months are past, at least till I return. We have formed a new district; and several matters are weighty with me. We have great harmony. Several married preachers that have local families want stations; that probably will have to wait, or stretch their loves. The northern hive has swarmed. We have taken in about 21 or 22 but be assured we are at low water mark for religion in New York. Upon my new plan of going east, I shall be in Philadelphia August the first day, and Sabbath. I have not much time to write ——.⁴ If that implacable enmity does not subside, I shall only have to say, I doubt not only the religion but the honor of such men, and they will not commit themselves to me, to say no more, that their religion is much like Satan, it cannot be of God.

I am with respect as ever yours,

FRANCIS ASBURY

My dear Brother:⁵

Let not him that putteth on the Armour boast as him that putteth off. Think not that the policy of hell can be conquered at one stroke. The Dragon is for us and the old man dies hard. The Breath water will put out fire, and time will bring mighty things to pass. My prayers and heaven’s blessing attend thee.

RICHARD WHATCOAT

Methodist Historical Society of the Baltimore Conference

(Lovely Lane Museum)