November 10, 1804 — to Daniel Hitt

As Asbury traveled to the south, he passed through the Alexandria District. On November 10 he records in the Journal that he wished to see Daniel Hitt. Since he did not see him, he writes this authorization for Hitt to preside over the Baltimore Conference on April 1, 1805. However, when the time came, Asbury opened the conference. (See Journal, April 1, 1805.)

NEW TOWN, VIRGINIA

November 10, 1804

[TO DANIEL HITT]¹

As I am going to the South, about 1400 miles passing and repassing, and hope to attend the South Carolina and Virginia Conferences, I feel my weakness, and calculate upon the probability of a failure in attending the Baltimore Conference to be held in Winchester, April 1st, 1805. These are to appoint you, according to the power delegated to me by the late General Conference. You must preside in the Conference as I have done, and do all things with a single eye to the glory of God. Admit, examine, elect, and station the preachers; and God will be with and bless you. Given under my hand this 10th day of November, 1804.

FRANCIS ASBURY

P.S. Mark well! Should Bishop Whatcoat be present, his want of sight is such, he cannot preside, but he will be as counsellor, and may ordain. F. ASBURY

The Quarterly Review of the M.E. Church, South, XV (1861), 159