CHAPTER NINE

Delaware

Saturday, January 1, 1780. I preached at Edward White's on Luke iii, 6-9, with great liberty; not in much order, but useful to the people. Went to see James Peterkins; he is continually praying now death is before him. Lord, hear and answer his prayer! Now commences the new year; these two years past have been trying years to me, and I doubt not but this will be so likewise; only, my God keep me through the water and fire, and let me rather die than live to sin against thee!

Sunday, 2. Rode to Cardeen's, eight miles through the swamp, by ten o'clock, and preached at eleven to about two hundred people, from, "To­day, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts." I had the presence of God, and spoke more than an hour. I believe good was done. We came back safe through the snow and ice: preached at brother Edward White's a little after two o'clock, on Deut. xxix, 10-13, upon renewing their covenant: addressed the family at night. It was a dreary night of rain, wind, snow, and frost. I have been much tried and much blest. "It is through much tribulation we must enter the kingdom."

Monday, 3. Exceeding cold weather: thank the Lord for a house and home, and all necessary things.

Tuesday, 4. Read a chapter in the Bible, read the Good Steward, a Sermon upon the Reformation of Manners, and Mr. Wesley's Sermon on Mr. Whitefield's death:' was closely employed: prayed three times in the

1 For an account of the preparation and delivery of this sermon in Tottenham Court Road Chapel, London, and its repetition in the tabernacle at Greenwich, see Wesley's Journal, November 10, 23, 1770.

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family, and attended private prayer my usual times. I long to be holy and to make the best use of a short life. How much skill is required to be a doctor! What diseases the human body is subject to! What regimen and care are necessary! How many diseases hath the soul! What skill ought a preacher to have to know the causes and cures !-it will require all his time and study: the consequences of miscarriages are greater in the soul than the body.

Wednesday, 5. Prayed and read closely till three o'clock in Mr. Wesley's fourth volume of Methodized Works.² I have my trials, and believe it is because I am not so extensively in the work as I hope to be shortly.

Thursday, 6. I did not travel; but read my Testament, and some of Young's poetry,³ which is very sublime: was much taken up in prayer. I want to be employed in travelling and preaching, if the weather would permit. Europeans cannot judge of the inclemency of our climate but by experience. I have hard struggles; but, glory be to God, his grace is sufficient.

Friday, 7. The ice on the ground, and the coldness of the weather, prevents my travelling. This was a day of fasting: I ate nothing till after three o'clock, and then only a bowl of milk; amidst all my exercises, I feel as though I advanced in the Divine life; am thankful that I am so well provided for, when, no doubt, thousands are suffering the want of food, firing, house room, and clothing. 0! may I act worthy of these favours! At four o'clock began reading Mr. Fletcher's Checks.⁴

Saturday, 8. I spent in reading and prayer.

Sunday, 9. Preached on 2 Cor. xiii, 5: "Examine yourselves whether ye be in the faith;" and was as pointed as I could be. Lord, make it a blessing to souls!

Monday, 10. Spent part of the day in examining the list of Mr. Wesley's books; employed some time in prayer, but not so much as 1 had appointed.

Tuesday, 11. I read the Checks; went to view a spot of land for building a preaching house5 upon, formed a subscription paper, and obtained subscribers for about £80.

Wednesday, 12. Was principally employed in assorting the books for sale.

2 This was probably Wesley's Christian Library. Volumes II-XII were published in

1751.

 This was probably The Complaint, or Night Thoughts on Life, Death, and Im­mortality, 1742, by Edward Young (1683-1765). He was an English poet, playwright, and clergyman.

'John Fletcher (1729-85) was a native of Switzerland. Although a clergyman of the Church of England, Fletcher became one of the most ardent and helpful associates of Mr. Wesley, who once designated him as his successor. Fletcher's Checks on Anti­nomianism is a work distinguished for scholarship and doctrinal disagreement without bitterness.

 This house was familiarly called the White Brown Chapel, near the present Seaford, Sussex County, Delaware.

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Thursday, 13. Finished reading the First Check: the style and spirit in which Mr. Fletcher writes, at once bespeak the scholar, the logician, and divine.

Friday, 14. A day of fasting, prayer, writing, and visiting the society:

was kept in peace, but did not spend so much time in prayer as I wished to do.

Saturday, 15. I am going into Sussex: my mind is serene, raised to God and heaven, and longing for the salvation of souls as much as ever. I rode to Johnstown :6 the roads are spread with sheets of ice; but my horse, rough shod, went safe.

Sunday, 16. Read my selections, and part of the Revelation, and preached at Alexander Law's, to about a hundred and fifty people, an argumentative sermon, from John iv, 48. There were some opposers to­day. I met the family, and spoke to the Africans.

Monday, 17. Spoke from 1 Timothy i, 15, with great enlargement, to about one hundred and fifty people; and Tuesday at Sharp's, on 1 John i, 8, 9. I had much light and liberty while speaking. I lodged at Mr. Rawl­ston's, a candid, conversable Presbyterian elder.

Wednesday, 19. Preached on Mark viii, 34-36, at William Law's, to about one hundred and fifty people; met the society. I was led out upon the subject, and believe many felt it. The Presbyterians appeared to be very attentive: truth will bear a strict scrutiny.

Thursday, 20. Preached at Spencer Hitchen's to about thirty people, on Titus i, 15, 16. I was searching, and the weather very piercing: afterward went to Mr. Daniel Polk's.

Friday, 21. Rode to White Brown's. This week past I have been in much haste, but have read a little every day, and finished the book of Joshua. 0, for more holiness of heart! I cannot rise so early as I would, it is so extremely cold these days and nights. I long to be more spiritual. I am glad to hear that brother Joseph Cromwell's labours are blest in the Fork,⁷ to the stirring up and awakening of several. Glory be to God! May I rejoice more heartily in the success of others, and yet be moved to emulation, to live holier, to labour more, and preach with greater fervour!

Sunday, 23. About three hundred people flocked together upon short notice, to whom I preached on Matt. i, 21: "Thou shalt call his name Jesus:" was very plain, but not methodical: met the society; the strangers who stayed, fled when I had nearly done, for fear I should speak to them. In the afternoon I had a long conference with a Nicolite,⁸ who wanted to find out who were right-they or we; a man of no great argument, and I fear but little religion: this makes these people so troublesome to US.

6 Johnstown is one mile east of Greenwood, Delaware.

 The Fork was a short term for North West Fork Hundred, Sussex County, in which White Brown and other Methodist families lived.

8 For a description of this sect see Journal entry for February 20, 1780.

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Monday, 24. Preached a funeral sermon for Solomon Turpin, to near three hundred people, from Gen. 1, 24. Was much assisted, and spoke including the funeral service and exhortations in all, three hours: the people stayed with great patience and seriousness, except a few wild young men. The work revives, and truth will spread.

Tuesday, 25. Preached to about thirty people at Joseph Turpin's. on Psalm xxvii, 10,-the "orphan's hope." I had not great enlargement, but the few present, old and young, were in some degree affected. Satan has tried me, but cannot prevail. I read but little: the weather is so severe I cannot keep from the fire; the rooms are cold and unfinished, and families are in the way. I kept my times for prayer; but not so long or so feeling as I desire.

Wednesday, 26. Preached a funeral for one Sizer; though it was a cold day, I had about one hundred people: spoke from Psalm xc, 12. The house being uncomfortable, and the people cold, I had not the satisfaction I wished for, but hope there was some good done; cold as it was, I read the burial service, and made some observations upon it that ought to impress our minds. I returned to John Flowers's, spent some time in conversation and prayer, and then came to R. Turpin's. There are three serious girls, left by their father in possession of a good plantation: they are young, but if they are faithful, God will stand by them: Rebecca is a pattern of piety, and a stay to all the rest. I could not but advise them to keep house. Lord, help me to improve! What is man! I am much troubled at times. I must travel; I always find a blessing in it: God has given me health, the best convenience, and some gifts; and 1 have some particular business that others cannot so well do. Lord, pardon my past slothfulness!

Thursday, 27. The weather was very cold, and the wind so exceedingly high, it was hardly safe to travel: as I had no appointment I stopt for one day, and read my Bible in course, through Judges; read a part of Fother­gill's Journal ;9 instructed Thomas Garrettson'° a little in English.

Friday, 28. A fine day for travelling: yesterday was so cold, it was hardly possible to travel without getting one's limbs frozen. I rose soon after five o'clock, prayed four times before I left my room, and twice in the family. I then set out for Isaac Moore's below Broad Creek, met with some difficulty in the way from the ice, but came there safe. Was variously exercised with thoughts, and had hard fightings. After riding twenty-five miles I took a little food, this being a day of abstinence and prayer with me.

Saturday, 29. Rose at five o'clock, prayed five times in private, once in the family, and transcribed into my collection a piece for the preachers, from Baxter's Works. Read a few chapters in the Old and one in the New

 John Fothergill (1712-80), member of a Quaker family, became an eminent Eng­lish physician, author, and philanthropist.

10 Thomas Garrettson, the uncle of Freeborn Garrettson, attended a service con­ducted by the latter at the Fork Chapel. (Garrettson, op. cit., 173, 174.)

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Testament. My soul is more at rest from the tempter when I am busily employed. Very cold weather yet; we are under great disadvantages in large families, people want much to talk; no glass in the windows; some places not a room to sit in with any solitude. Went to visit a young woman, near her end, in a dropsy: she was in some doubt about her acceptance with God, though a professor. I came in to her comfort-surely it is a serious thing to die!

Sunday, 30. Preached on John, Second Epistle, 8th verse: had many to hear, and I spoke with zeal.

Monday, 31. Rose at five o'clock, and prayed six times, and hope God will be with and bless us, and make it a time of power; but 0! I pass through the fire day after day. Lord let me rather die than live to dis­honour thee! I preached on Psalm cxiii, 1; had many to hear, but not great liberty in speaking. Joseph Cromwell came in and gave an exhorta­tion: the people were very serious. In the evening we divided the circuit,'¹ and settled the preachers' stations -John Cooper for Sussex and Somer­set; Hartley and Stephen Black for Kent and part of Sussex.

Tuesday, February 1, 1780. At nine o'clock we had a love feast-a time of great tenderness; after some time brother Cromwell spoke, his words went through me, as they have every time I have heard him-he is the only man I have heard in America with whose speaking I am never tired; I always admire his unaffected simplicity; he is a prodigy-a man that cannot write or read well, yet, according to what I have heard, he is much like the English John Brown, or the Irish John Smith, or Beveridge's Shepherd's Boy: I fear he will not stand or live long.'² The power of God attends him more or less in every place, he hardly ever opens his mouth in vain; some are generally cut to the heart, yet he himself is in the fire of temptation daily. Lord, keep him every moment. I preached on 1 Thess. i, 5, and was much led out; there were about five hundred people. This meeting will be attended with a great blessing-rich and poor approved the doctrine. I heard of the sudden death of my dear friend Jonathan Sipple. About eighteen months ago he was brought home to God, from an open sinner, to be a happy, faithful man. He is soon taken away from the evil to come; he was loved, and is much lamented: in extreme pain, but full of patience, and rejoicing in God, he made a blessed end. All hail, happy soul! Soon taken thy flight to rest! This is clear gains indeed-  This was the Delaware Circuit. Asbury's division by counties was superseded at

the Baltimore Conference about three months distant by the creation of Sussex Circuit in Delaware and Dorset, or Dorchester, Circuit on the eastern shore. Sussex County was in Delaware, and Somerset County was in Maryland. (Scharf: History of Delaware, II, 1159.)

12 To Asbury the native ability and the reckless zeal of Cromwell were reminiscent of Wesley's eyewitness accounts of Brown and Smith, and the misfortunes of the former. (Wesley's Journal, April 24, 1747; September 28, 1749; June 13, 1759; and July II, 1771; May24, 1773.)

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late brought in, soon taken away; my mind moves with mixed passions of joy and grief. Freeborn Garrettson spoke in his usual plainness, as to matter and manner, but it moved the people greatly.

Wednesday, 2. I preached a funeral sermon over a young woman by the name of Amelia Dodwell: I bad hope in her death. I spoke on Eccies. ix, 10, with great fervour and clear views; brother Joseph Cromwell exhorted: I spoke at the grave; the people were serious. Strangers at­tended, that did not, would not, before quarterly meeting. These people were drawn, and friends refreshed; life begets life. I have been humbled in spirit, but, blessed be God, all things go well in my own heart. Freeborn Garrettson bad a desire to go to Dorchester; I consented to his going, and the Lord go with him.

Thursday, 3. Rode to Mr. Freeny's, about ten miles, and preached to about one hundred people. I spoke upon "To-day, if ye will hear his voice," &c. Brother Cromwell exhorted, and some were moved.

Friday, 4. Rode to Jonathan Boyer's, and preached to about eighty people: the Baptists followed us about. Here we met with a woman in deep distress; we both spoke to her, and, I hope, sent her away comforted. I had today a providential escape: my horse started, turned round in the woods, hardly escaped running me on the trees; which, if he had, would have overset me, and might have broken the carriage and my limbs, the ground being so hard; but, thanks be to God, I received no hurt. I spoke at Boyer's from these words, "Will ye be also his disciples ?"

Saturday, 5. Came to Morgan Wiffiams's, and was received kindly for the first time. I found one of my countrymen under deep distress, a back­slider, and a man of sense; if restored it may be he will be a preacher. He is afraid it is impossible he should be restored. I showed him the meaning of Heb. 6th chap., that it must be one who denied the work of the Holy Spirit, and opposed as the Jews did, and in enmity to crucify Christ, which he never did.

Sunday, 6. Spoke on Hosea xiii, 9. There were more people than the house could hold, and they were very attentive. The people seem quite ripe in the Fork for the Gospel. I rode to Choptank, near thirty miles.

Monday, 7. I went to see the old people, Mr. and Mrs. James Peterkin, rejoicing in God, and willing to die. Made an addition to my book to the preachers. I have done but little of account, but visiting the sick, and praying with them.

Tuesday, 8.1 added to my book, and kept my times of prayer; I abridged from Mr. Law. My mind was well taken up with God.

Wednesday, 9. Have peace, but long to be more employed in the public work. I hear the work spreads in Bolingbroke and Talbot.13 So the Lord

13 In this vicinity, in which Trappe, Maryland, is located, a Dr. Allen was the leader in one of the earliest societies, from which Bolingbroke Chapel took its name. (Coke's Journal, 49; Lednum, op. cit., 261, 262; Hallman, op. cit., 337.)

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leads us on through many hinderances. Perhaps there never was such a work carried on by such simple men, of such small abilities, and no learning. The Lord shows his own power, and makes bare his own right arm! Brother Garrettson set off for Dorchester to preach the Gospel. We committed the remains of Mrs. Peterkin to the dust at Thomas White's; she died in full triumph of faith; many people were present, and we gave exhortations suited to the occasion.

Thursday, 10. I read a little in the morning, and visited the sick. Was blessed in talking with John White's family.14 I must spend whole nights in prayer; I have been in peace, but want more love. Brother Hartley has obtained a discharge from Talbot jail, after much labour and pains; the grand jury returned the bill of indictment, Ignoramus. Thus God makes way for us in all trials. Prayed for an hour after I took my room; I took my bed about ten o'clock. Had not prayed in the day so much as I should. 0, my God, keep me in the spirit of prayer!

Saturday, 12. Visited my friends, and prayed from house to house; met the class, and was much blessed. Spent some time in prayer; but Satan hath many devices.

Sunday, 13. 1 rode eight miles, and preached to about two hundred people, who seemed dead and unfeeling. Spoke on Romans v, 19, 20, and laboured hard to make them understand, but fear they did not. At three o'clock preached on 1 Tim. iii, 5, with some life; we had but few people, and most of them strangers.

Monday, 14. The work of God revives, but the people are not so faithful as they ought to be.

Tuesday, 15. A rainy morning: I had to go to Slaughter's; and on my way called at John Case's, prayed, and went on to the place of preaching. There were about one hundred very attentive, poor, ignorant people. Spoke on Acts xiii, 26, with great liberty. It was through great tribulation I went; I am tried as by fire. I called at Diall's, and spoke to him about his soul; went to see old Mrs. Cox, a great professor of religion, but now going out of her senses on account of the loose behaviour of one of her children; which makes me fear she was upon a self-righteous foundation. She is now in a delirium, insensible of anything. Spoke rousingly to her, but could not wake her at all. Went from thence to Mr. Peterkin's: he is sick, but has no deep sense of religion.

Wednesday, 16. A bright, blessed morning, but I am in heaviness through manifold temptations; but trust the Lord will keep me. Have read in the intervals of these two days twelve of Mr. Wesley's Sermons;

14 This was probably the family of John White, a brother of Dr. Edward White and nephew of Judge Thomas White. Freeborn Garrettson, who was with John White when he was converted on his deathbed and conducted his funeral, says that he was once "a great persecutor." The widow and children became Methodists. (The Arminian Magazine, XVII, 228.)

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and cannot read them without conviction and great instruction. God is with me: he is preparing me for great labours, and I hope yet to endure to the end; but must be more sanctified:

"Lord, hasten the hour, thy kingdom bring in,

And give me the power to live without sin."

Keep me holy and constant in thy work, always industrious, that Satan may have no fair occasion to tempt. I lectured at Edward White's on John xiv, 19-21, and had great liberty, love, and life; and the people likewise. After all my trials, God blesses me. Satan is a liar, and Christ is true, and will never leave nor forsake me.

Thursday, 17. I am going to preach a funeral sermon for Zach. Nichols, a schoolmaster, a reading Churchman, an Englishman, and wish I could say assuredly, a Christian. I found great liberty in preaching from Matt. xxiv, 44; read and explained the funeral service; there was a great melting among the people, and I hope not in vain.

Saturday, 19. I rode through bad roads to Morgan Williams's; and was in peace and prayer. Stepped into Johnson's, took dinner, and had some close conversation with him; he is a mild, conversable man. I came in late; the people were met; exhorted, and felt some life among the people.

Sunday, 20. Was solemn in prayer. Spoke on James i, 22-24. I was assisted to be close, moving, and argumentative; but have in general hard labour. Here they are an unsettled people, and weak of understand­ing; preached in the afternoon at the widow Brady's, from James 1, 8:

"A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways." This text was pressed upon me to speak from, while at Williams's, and I could not get over it. In the afternoon I found there was a cause; the Nicolites had been work­ing upon several of our friends, and had shook them with their craft. These are a people who sprung from one Nicols, a visionary, but I hope a good man: he held Quaker principles, but the Friends would not receive him. A certain James Harris is at present their leader; they clothe in white, take everything from nature, and condemn all other societies that do not conform to the outward: If a man were to speak like an archangel; if be sung, prayed, and wore a black, or a coloured coat, he would not be received by these people. They were almost asleep when the Methodists came, but now are awake and working with simple, awakened people. They love, like some other denominations, to fish in troubled water. They oppose family prayer as much as any sinners in the country; and have much to say against our speakers: profess what they will, there is nothing in names.

Monday, 21. I am kept in peace. Preached twice yesterday, and met the society. Joseph Hartley is sick. I see there is no way like prayer for the life of my own soul. Some lazy, backsliding people among us are gone, after the Nicolites: let them go, for they were become as salt that had lost

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its savour; we want no such people. I preached at the Draw-Bridge to about two hundred people; spoke on "Ye cannot serve God and mammon"- was clear and searching. Mr. -, who has been a man much in pursuit of the world, and who was condemned by our friends in his conduct, rose up after I bad done, and said, he was the man pointed at, and desired another hearing.

Tuesday, 22. Rode to Andrew Purden's, had about sixty people, and spoke on Luke xi, 28: "Blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it"-met the class. John Beauchamp and Dr. Bowness, both pro­fessed sanctification: I hope it is so. The society is much increased: but all is not gold that shines.

Wednesday, 23. I rode to Richard Shaw's, it came up cold and snowed; had about fifty people; a solid society, tender, and in a measure faithful. I have been much in haste these two days, but had little time for prayer and private duties; but I take mornings and nights, and am resolved, that if not in the day, I will have it at night and morning. I was tried in getting off; called at two of the friends' houses, and had prayer; and had my trials also. Spoke at Shaw's, on 1 John iii, 10; felt warm in spirit, although I suf­fered on the road with cold; have read but little, but am labouring for souls.

Thursday, 24. Rode ten miles out and ten miles in, to Joseph Wyatt's; about two hundred people: a very cold day; spoke on Titus ii, 11, to the end; was much led out, and kept in peace all day.

Friday, 25. A day of fasting and rest; sorely tempted: this made me think, that had I gone to preach, or to town and met class, it would not have been the case: so I must for the future be more employed, for this is the will of God concerning me. This morning I read the Testament; and had a good time in general this week, but 0! the workings of heart I labour under! Have spent much time in prayer night and morning: I am much led out at such times.

Saturday, 26. Rode to Boyer's, and met society; most of the hearers present met in class. Spoke as searching as possible; and gave an exhorta­tion: the people were much stirred up. At night I was greatly engaged in prayer.

Sunday, 27. Spoke from Luke xi, 24-27. There were many people, and a good time. I showed how the devil is cast out, and how he returns: then rode to Dover, and came in just as church was ended. I preached with great labour on Acts xxiv, 25. Some had eaten and drank more than enough, and were fit to go to sleep; but the greater part were attentive. But 0! what a continual burden have I to come and preach here! Went home with lawyer Richard Bassett,15 a very conversant and affectionate

15 This was among the first of many visits to the three Bassett homes located in Dover and Wilmington, Delaware, and in Bohemia Manor, Maryland. Mrs. Bassett was the former Ann Ennalls, sister of Henry Ennalls and niece of Judge Ennalls of Dorchester County, Maryland.

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man, who, from his own acknowledgments, appears to be sick of sin. His wife is under great distress; a gloom of dejection sits upon her soul; she prayeth much, and the enemy takes an advantage of her low state.

Monday, 28. I rode to Shaw's, spoke at three o'clock, on Acts xxviii,

28. I was blessed with a calm, sweet frame, and had great ease and freedom in my soul and subject; an attentive congregation. I feel a peculiar love to these people; and expect if Mr. Bassett ever comes to God, he is to preach. I have been kept in peace, and am ready to think sometimes God has saved me from all sin, properly so called. Satan made one sudden stroke at me, but I looked to God. Last Sunday morning I was drawn out in prayer, and felt the effect in a particular manner in preaching at Boyer's:

the word went like fire; a little of it in the evening, but there is so much pride, and so much of unbelief in the Dover people, that a man needs the faith and power of Stephen to bear up and speak to them.

Tuesday, 29. Rode to Scotten's, had about fifty people; they were dis­appointed in expecting me the day before, and I was misinformed. I spoke with liberty on 1 Tim. i, 5. The roads were bad beyond my ex­pectation. I rode on horseback; returned to Shaw's, took dinner, heard of Freeborn Garrettson's being put in jail in Dorset. So Satan has stretched his chain; but this shall work for good. Spent a night with Mr. Magaw; had great satisfaction in conversing with him relative to his having a closer connexion with us.

Wednesday, March 1, 1780. Rode twelve miles to the Thomas chapel; four or five miles the roads were so bad that I was obliged to get out of the carriage and walk; I came late, and much fatigued. Spoke on Matt. v, 16:

"Let your light so shine before men;" spoke freely, and was blessed; the work revives here, and over in Queen Annes County, a few miles distant from this. Through bad roads with difficulty I rode to Fatad's mills-stayed that night-could not get to Choptank.

Thursday, 2. Heard of Mr. James Peterkin's death, he died last night; I came to his house, and went to Thomas White's; find it is a fact that brother Garrettson was put into jail last Sunday."

Friday, 3. Rose between four and five o'clock, and prayed some time; have begun reading Robertson's History of Scotland, in two vols.17 Went to Stradley's, spoke on Rev. iii, 20, with liberty; met class, came back, and spoke a few words to the people, who were met to put the remains of James Peterkin in the ground: at the repeated solicitations of Mrs. M. White, I attended those old people in life and death.

Saturday, 4. I wrote to Pedicord and Cromwell; and have appointed

"Freeborn Garrettson was lodged in the Dorchester County jail, Cambridge, February 27, 1780. (Garrettson, op. cit., 152.)

17 William Robertson (1721-93) was the author of History of Scotland during the Reigns of Queen Mary and of James VI until his Accession to the Crown of England.

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Joshua Dudley for Dorset: he is qualified by law." Rested and read

Robertson's first volume. 0! what treachery and policy attendeth courts!

and how does court policy, without design, give way to a reformation!

This has been the case in England and Scotland.

Sunday, 5. I went to church and heard Mr. Neill preach a good sermon on, "0! that they were wise." I preached at Edward White's, on Micah vi, 6-8. The subject was too laboured for the congregation, yet searching, and the people were solemn.

Monday, 6. I was kept close in reading the first volume of the History of Scotland, and was kept in quiet. In the morning I wrote to brother Garrettson to comfort him under his imprisonment.

Tuesday, 7. A rainy day, but went to my appointment: there were a few people; I spoke on Eph. i, 8, 9, and had great liberty. I think a certain person here, that has been a high churchwoman, will yet be a Methodist. Called at Vincent Dorothy's, took dinner, talked and prayed with the family. I am to preach at his house.

Wednesday, 8. I rose at five, and began reading in Mr. Wesley's Notes on the Acts of the Apostles. This day I visited the widow Cox, who has nearly lost her reason. She was pleased to see me, and showed some tenderness and intervals of reason, though I had but little satisfaction with her. Lectured on Jer. iii, 15-19, and was blest. Came back to Thomas White's.

Thursday, 9. I am under a gloomy heaviness through manifold tempta­tions. Read Mr. Wesley's Notes on the Epistle to the Romans. Some of his sentiments I have adopted, and thought them my own; perhaps they are not, for I may have taken them first from him. Prayed often, and shut myself up. I find meditating on past unfaithfulness humiliating; but I must go on: pondering my ways so much dejects and weakens my faith. Lord, keep me; keep me, gracious Lord, and never let me go! I met class at night, though none but the Whites' families. It was made a blessing, and made me examine my own heart.

Friday, 10. I rose between four and five o'clock, spent some time in private prayer and with the families; read Mr. Wesley's Notes on 1 Corinthians, and ended the reading of the second book of Kings, in my reading in course the Bible through. To-morrow I am to go down into the North West Fork, where, I am told, the Lord revives his work. In the evening was unwell, and went to bed early.

Saturday, 11. Rose under some exercise of soul, set off for the Fork about eleven o'clock, stopped at brother Gozeley's, fed my horse, and heard of the severity used to brother Garrettson in Cambridge jail, and that they would not let the people come to speak with him. All this shall work for good, and we will rejoice that we are counted worthy to suffer for righteousness' sake. Found it bad traveffing; when I came into by­18This probably meant that Joshua Dudley had taken the Maryland oath of allegiance.

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roads, my horse nearly overset; but with difficulty came to White Brown's, and was blest in praying with and speaking to the family.

Sunday, 12. Rode to Solomon Turpm's; and fear something is the mat­ter here. I cannot preach with freedom, and am not happy. Spoke on Ezek. xviii, 19, in light and liberty, and as searching as I well could.

Monday, 13. Received a letter from brother Garrettson: his enemies are softened towards him. I think the Lord will deliver me yet from all evil. I heard Cromwell was put in jail, but did not credit it. I labour to be more spiritual, and to be holy in heart and life. I rode to John Cannon's, and spoke on John i, 8, 9; had liberty. There were about a hundred peo­ple, and some little stir. One of the sons has a religious frenzy; he was panic struck, and prayed some hours: he kneeled down in time of preach­ing; he may be sincere, and come to something. Rode to Morgan Williams's; met brother Lowry, now rejoicing in God, his backslidings healed, and his soul restored. Received another letter from brother Garrettson, where­in he informs me the people want to get rid of him, and that they are not so cruel to him as formerly, nor to the people who visit him.

Tuesday, 14. Rose in peace, spent near an hour in retirement, and was blessed. Read some chapters in the Bible. My soul is kept in peace; glory be to God! I wrote to Philip Rogers, and spent my time till noon in reading, writing, and prayer.

Wednesday, 15. Brother Garrettson expects to come out of jail by the favour of the governor and council of Maryland in spite of his foes: so the Lord works for us. In Somerset they are using some of Bishop War-burton's Works'⁹ against Mr. Wesley and Mr. Whitefield. I was much blest in speaking at Spencer Hitchen's, on Titus iii, 2-8, to nearly two hundred serious people; their prejudices wear off: it is to be observed, bad as these people were, they never persecuted us, as they have done at some other places; it cannot be for our being falsely reported to be Tories, for in Somerset some of our greatest enemies are of that stamp.

Thursday, 16. I have peace; rose at five o'clock, read the Scriptures, ended the first Book of Chronicles. Last night I gave an exhortation; a young girl wept enough to break her heart. I hope she will seek the Lord. I am kept in faith, and feel my heart much melted and moved to poor opposers, and can pray for them as I do for myself.

Friday, 17. Rose at five o'clock, prayed, and read awhile in an old author, who warmly attacks Popery in its capital errors, and in a strong, argumentative manner; but is full of Greek and Latin quotations. I rode to Johnstown, and from thence to William Law's; met Freeborn Garrett-son, who came out of jail by order of the governor and council of Mary­land, who had sent to the governor of Delaware to know if Freeborn Gar­rettson were not a fugitive, and had received satisfactory information.  William Warburton (1698-1779) was bishop of Gloucester. In 1762 he published his Doctrine of Grace directed against John Wesley's views.

DELAWARE March 18, 1780                                                                              341

Brother Garrettson preached on Matthew xxv, 10: "And they that were ready went in with him to the marriage, and the door was shut." I spoke a few words after him. 1. That the way some kept off convictions was, by neglect of prayer. 2. Some not uniform in prayer. 3. Others never intended to give up all sin. 4. Others rest in present attainments, and take pride in what God hath done for them, and fall away: and closed with an application suited to the cases and consciences of the people.

Saturday, 18. Rose at four o'clock, and spent some time in prayer. Brother Garrettson took my place and appointments: we drew some out­lines for our conference while together. I preached at John Lewis's, on John viii, 3 1-37, and had great liberty, and more people than I expected, as it rained.

Sunday, 19. Preached at Alexander Law's, and spoke searchingly; the people were attentive; some Presbyterians brought to think very seriously. I rode to Wiffiam Law's, and spoke on 2 Thess. i, 7-13, had living liberty, and I hope not in vain.

Monday, 20. Rose early, wrote an hour, and then rode twenty-four miles to Caleb Furby's to preach; was late, but came before Caleb Boyer had done meeting the class. Spoke on John iii, 24, and felt quickenings. Went home with Waitman Sipple ;20 he and Philip Barratt determined to go about the chapel, and to set it near the drawbridge.

Tuesday, 21. Rode to Purdin's, and had many people; spoke on Malachi iii, 16-18. Had much power in speaking: then rode to Choptank, to the funeral of James Peterkin and Elizabeth his wife, at Thomas White's.

Wednesday, 22. Mr. Magaw preached the funeral sermon of James and Elizabeth Peterkin, in Mr. White's barn: there were about four hundred people; I only stood as clerk. Joseph Cromwell gave an exhortation, pretty long and rough: Mr. Neil! gave an exhortation. Mr. Magaw and myself returned to the baptizing the children. I have been collecting all the minutes of our conferences in America, to assist me in a brief history of the Methodists; and an account of our principles.

Thursday, 23. Rose early: have some trials among my friends; but it is all well, God is with me. Company is not agreeable at all times; but the will of the Lord be done, if he calls me to it.

Good-Friday, 24. A cloudy day; it began raining when I was a few miles

on my way; I could not turn back; about eleven o'clock it cleared away.

I came to the chapel, there were about forty people. Spoke on Isaiah liii,

10, then rode to brother Richard Shaw's, and was much blest, as I always

20 Waitman Sipple was the father-in-law of Philip Barratt (1730-84), for whom the chapel was named. The latter was converted in 1778 under the ministry of Freeborn Garrettson. The chapel was begun in May, 1780, dedicated in August, and opened for services that autumn. The deed of conveyance of land, August 17, 1780, from Philip Barratt, was made to Reynear Williams and eight other trustees. (Barratt: Barralt's Chapel and Methodism; Boehm, op. cit., 50-52, 226, 227; Lednum, op. cit., 265, 266; Deed Book W, I, 247, Dover Courthouse.)

342                                                                                DELAWARE March25,1780

am in this family. I have deep and sore trials: the remembrance of them depresses my soul.

Saturday, 25. Have peace of soul, but am not enough given up to God. I purpose to be more devoted to God in prayer and meditation: rode to Boyer's, and met the society: the people appear to be more alive to God than when I was here last; preached on 2 Tim. ii, 18, 19, and bad much light and liberty.

Sunday, 26. Rode to church,²' where we had a smooth, sensible dis­course on 1 Peter i, 3. 1 attended the communion-communicants increase daily, for people get awakened by us; when this is the case, they go to the Lord's supper. In the afternoon I preached; many flocked to hear, it being Easter Sunday. Spoke plainer than ever on Acts xvii, 18; had en­largement of heart; the church minister was present.

Monday, 27. Called at the Rev. Mr. Magaw's; spent an hour, changed books and sentiments, and came off to Mrs. Beauchamp's, then to Andrew Purdin's, there were near two hundred people; spoke on 1 Peter i, 7-12; was blest, and felt some things I spoke; nothing but hard trials could make me speak so.

Tuesday, 28. I rode to Stradley's, and spoke on 1 Peter iii, 18, with great opening-entered deep into the nature of Christ's sufferings, and some sublime truths of the Gospel.

Wednesday, 29. Spent what time I had to spare in transcribing from Robert Walker a part of one of his sermons to the preachers, and put it in my selections. I went to preach at Vincent Dorothy's, and spoke on Luke xxiv, 25, 26. Made a faithful discharge of truth to the people; they were attentive. I have been very much exercised in mind; the time for leaving this place draws nigh. Never was confinement in one State, Dela­ware, so trying to me. Lord, help me, I am weak! At night I went to Edward White's, and gave an exhortation; was greatly troubled in mind.

Thursday, 30. I am going to Sussex, on my way to the quarterly meeting at the Fork. I fear there will be great commotions this summer; God only knows what the end of these things will be; but "Blessed are those people that are found watching." I lost my way and wandered into the swamp, and feared I must lie in the woods, but came to a friend's house, and then pushed on and reached Mr. Daniel Polk's about seven o'clock. Read a wonderful book against Methodists, but it will do no great harm.

Friday, 31. Waked before three o'clock, though I did not go to bed till after ten o'clock-was weather-bound, and read the second volume of Robertson's History of Scotland. The fate of unfortunate Mary Queen of Scots was affecting; and the admired Queen Elizabeth does not appear to advantage in the Scotch history. Prayed an hour this morning, and re­tired twice; used abstinence, though not so severe as I commonly use on Fridays.

21Christ Protestant Episcopal Church, Dover, Delaware.

DELAWARE AprilI,1780                                                                                      343

Saturday, April 1. Rose about half-past three o'clock, and set out for Broad Creek-was kept in peace all the way; when in temptation, I pray, and it flies. Came in about three o'clock; and found that the spirit of lying and fury reigned! I received a satisfactory letter from William Moore; he hopes a reconciliation will take place in Virginia, if healing measures are adopted.

Sunday, 2. Rose about six o'clock; I lay in a dark room, and was a little unwell: I am kept near to God, but under some dejection; I believe it was because the people of this house are not right toward God. Spoke to-day on Acts xxviii, 22: "As for this sect, we know that everywhere it is spoken against." Spoke long and freely, but the people were not greatly moved. Preached in the afternoon at George Moore's, on 1 Peter iv, 18:

"If the righteous are scarcely saved," &c.; and a blessing followed.

Monday, 3. Rose at five o'clock, spent some time in prayer, and my reading in course to the twenty-third Psalm. Preached at Thomas Jones's to about sixty careless, ignorant people; had very little comfort; spoke from 2 Tim. ii, 19. Read in the afternoon the Appendix to the History of Scotland. I am in heaviness through the deadness of the people, and the lies of the wicked about us-of which there appear to be enough; and it does seem now as if they could freely shed our blood: Lord, give me faith and patience! The present state of things is, Report, say they, and we will report it; nothing can come amiss; all is fish that comes to the net: the wicked will say anything; yes, all manner of evil against us.

Tuesday, 4. There came on rain, but I went to Gitting Bradley's; there were about forty people, though it rained rapidly. Spoke on Rev. iii, 20, and was much blessed; then returned to George Moore's.

Wednesday, 5. A snowy morning. Rode to Levin Bacon's: there were about thirty people; I was led out to speak close to them, and some felt it to the heart.

Thursday, 6. Rode to Mr. Freeny's. I preached from 2 Chron. vii, 14, and was led, though with labour, to deliver my soul to them. Set off to go seven miles, through a dreary road and deep swamps, to Calloway's; came in about seven o'clock, and found liberty as soon as I came. God has a people in these rude wastes: I expect to go, after preaching, to the sea­side.

Friday, 7. About three days ago I was moved to pray for good weather, when I saw what a condition we should be in: there is a change in the weather. I have peace this morning, and my heart is lifted up to God in thankfulness. An appearance of good weather: blessed be God! though, when the weather was so uncomfortable, I was tempted to murmur. Lord, pardon me in this also! Surely, what the Lord does is right, whether he does it against a single person or to a whole nation. Preached at Calloway's, on 2 Peter iii, 18, and was blessed. There were about fifty souls-an at­tentive, feeling people. After preaching, 1 rode thirty miles to the sea-side:

344                                                                                     DELAWARE April8,1780

there met brother Garrettson, confident that God had, in a vision of the night, sanctified him.

Saturday, 8. Went to the sea and bathed, though cold: and then rode about nine miles from Evans's to Gray's. Our quarterly meeting began:²² I preached on Rom. v, 6, 7, and had liberty. The Baptists show their enmity, and go from house to house persuading weak people to be dipped, and not to hear the Methodists; and they bring their preachers in our absence.

Sunday, 9. I have peace: it has been very rainy; but clear this morning. We had a great day: preached on 1 John v, 19: "We know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness." Brother Garrettson ex­horted, there was some melting; John Cooper spoke to purpose; Jcseph Cromwell brought up the rear with great success. The people were serious.

Monday, 10. I have peace of soul; but too much talk like trifling; the devil throws his firebrands, but grace is sufficient. I appointed brother Joseph Wyatt to keep the ground against the Baptists, and to supply our places here instead of the travelling preachers that are going to conference:

for John's people intend to come a fishing about, when we are gone. We had a love feast at eight o'clock; many spoke in a very feeling manner. God was with us at eleven o'clock-I preached on 2 Cor. iv, 12. Brother Cromwell and brother Garrettson exhorted: the people were moved at what was said, though simple, and the same things he frequently says; but he is a man of God, and their spiritual father.

Tuesday, 11. We rode fifty miles to Choptank.

Wednesday, 12.1 was employed in writing a short history of the Method­ists; also in preparing my papers for conference. I am going from my home, Thomas White's.

Thursday, 13. I set off for Richard Shaw's, in Kent; and came in about five o'clock, and kept a watch evening. I spoke on I Cor. xvi, 13, 14. Caleb Pedicord exhorted.

Friday, 14. A day of fasting. I was employed in preparing my paper for conference; Caleb Pedicord is my scribe. I am under some apprehen­sions that trouble is near. Thomas M'Clure is confined sick in Philadelphia. Henry Kennedy and William Adams are dead: so the Lord cuts off the watchmen of Israel. But sure I am that it is better to die early, than to live, though late, to dishonour God.

Saturday, 15. I spent the afternoon with Mr. Magaw.

Sunday, 16. Rode twelve miles, and preached at the Thomas chapel, on Psalm cxxii, 6-8. Had some life among the people, but I fear they did not properly understand me. Preached at Richard Shaw's, my farewell 22 Lednum locates the meeting "at the Sound," which is the present Sound Chapel on the Roxana Charge, Sussex County. (Lednum, op. cit., 279; Boehm, op. cit., 124; Scharf: History of Delaware, II, 1949.)

DELAWARE April 17, 1780                                                                                345

sermon, on Acts xxi, 32. The people were solemn, but not deeply affected with a sense of the worth of their souls.

Monday, 17. Our quarterly meeting began.23 Our little chapel with gal­leries, held about seven hundred; but there were I judge near one thousand people. I preached on Phil. i, 27: "Only let your conversation be as it becometh the Gospel of Christ."

Tuesday, 18. After love feast, Mr. Magaw read prayers, and Mr. Neill preached a good sermon, on "Feed my sheep;" brother Garrettson and myself exhorted. The power of God was present in the love feast: many spoke in our meeting with light, life, and liberty.

Wednesday, 19. I left Mr. Emory's, where we were very kindly enter­tained in the dreary forest; they live well; these people were brought off their prejudices by Mr. Magaw's preaching in the chapel; they and their family connexions promise fair. Brother Garrettson spoke on, "Ye now have sorrow." But he could not move the people here as at the sea-side:

they are cooler, and he is not their spiritual father.

Thursday, 20. Set off for Baltimore,24 and called at Mr. Magaw's; we parted in much affection. Called at Mr. Bassett's, and had a warm con­versation with Warner Muffin. We prayed, and Mrs. Bassett made a confession of finding peace.

Maryland

We rode to Solomon Symmond's.

Friday, 21. We rode to Robert Thompson's, Maryland, Cecil County; dined, prayed, and spoke close to him, who had fainted in his mind, being now left alone. We came to Susquehanna River a little before sunset, and passed over in the night; rode six miles in the dark, and a bad road; but Providence has preserved me hitherto. I had a very tender feeling for the people I left behind; this makes me think I must return.

Saturday, 22. I could not pray for our friends we left behind without weeping. We rode to Mr. Gough's, Baltimore County; my friends ap­peared very joyful to see me; brother Glendenning25 had his objections to make, and pleaded some in favour of the Virginia brethren, who had made

23 The participation in this meeting in Thomas Chapel of two clergymen of the Established Church, Samuel Magaw and Hugh Neill, tended to reduce the local prejudice against the Methodists.

24 Asbury was leaving the Peninsula. He was to attend the conference of the northern preachers set for April 24, 1780.

25 Apparently Glendenning, who gradually grew more disputatious and erratic, on

this occasion irritated Asbury. See the footnote by "W.S." below, which appears in

the original Journal. (See Journal entries for November 6, 1780; December 26, 1790:

The Life of William Glendenning, Preacher of the Gospel.)

346                                                                                  MARYLAND April23,1780

a division.* We prayed after dinner, and God was with us: I had cause to talk more than I desired.

Sunday, 23. Lord give me wisdom that is profitable to direct. This is a dumb Sabbath :26 I have no freedom to preach; there are strange changes; what has taken place with our brethren seems parallel with the commotions of the southward; and the same spirit. I am kept in peace, through grace, and am casting my care upon the Lord. If I cannot keep up old Methodism in any other place, I can in the peninsula: that must be my last retreat. Spent some time in private, and prepared some conditions for a partial reconciliation, in hopes to bring on a real one in Virginia. Brother Free­born Garrettson preached in the afternoon, on these words, "Disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious:" he was short and profit­able; I prayed with my heart full. Met brother Samuel Selby, whom 1 have not seen for near six years, one of my old friends from New York, driven about by the commotions of the present times: he with great joy fell upon my neck and wept. I am more moved than ever before, with leaving and meeting my friends; these are humbling times, and make the Christians love one another: I found the spirits of the preachers much melted and softened. I hope things will be made easy.

Monday, 24. We made a plan for the appointment of the preachers. Received three epistles from the Jerseys, soliciting three or four preachers, with good tidings of the work of God reviving in those parts. The peti­tioners I shall hear with respect. I am kept in peace; praise the Lord, 0 my soul! Rode to Baltimore, and my friends were much rejoiced to see me; but silence broke my heart. The act against non-jurors reduced me to silence, because the oath of fidelity required by the act of the State of Maryland, was preposterously rigid. I became a citizen of Delaware,27 and was regularly returned. I was at this time under recommendation of the governor of Delaware as taxable.

Tuesday, 25. Our conference met in peace and love.²⁸ We settled all our

* See what a poor unsettled creature this Glendenning ever was. This was long before he went into his mighty trances, visions, &c., that he talks so much about. No wonder that a person of his selfish temper should behave as be has done to his brethren the Methodists.-W.S.

26 Asbury applied the word "dumb" to any day on which he was prevented from preaching.

27 The name of Francis Asbury appears on the assessment list of Mispillion Hundred, County of Kent, Delaware, in July, 1779. The governor of Delaware to whom Asbury refers was Caesar Rodney. (Original assessment list in Public Archives Commission, Hall of Records, Dover, Delaware; see Journal entry for February 5, 1781.)

28 This conference met in the new Lovely Lane Chapel at Baltimore. The only southern preachers were Philip Gatch and Reuben Ellis, who represented Virginia. The meeting disapproved the action of the Virginians, regarded them as "no longer Methodists," and asked them to suspend the ordinances for one year and meet in a joint conference at Baltimore. (General Minutes, 1, 11-12; Garrettson, op. cit., 161 if.; Watters, op. cit., 79-80; Gatch, op. cit., 73-4.)

MARYLAND April26,1780                                                                                  347

northern stations; then we began in much debate about the letter sent from Virginia. We first concluded to renounce them; then I offered conditions of union.

I. That they should ordain no more.

II. That they should come no farther than Hanover circuit.

III. We would have our delegates in their conference.

IV. That they should not presume to administer the ordinances where there is a decent Episcopal minister.

V. To have a union conference.

These would not do, as we found upon long debate, and we came back Lo our determinations; although it was like death to think of parting. At last a thought struck my mind; to propose a suspension of the ordinances for one year, and so cancel all our grievances, and be one. It was agreed n both sides, and Philip Gatch and Reuben Ellis, who had been very stiff, came into it, and thought it would do.

Wednesday, 26. Preached on Acts vi, 4, with liberty.

Thursday, 27. Read the advice to preachers. At twelve o'clock we had a melting love feast; preachers and people wept like children. At night I preached on Acts ii, 48, with great liberty, to about six hundred people. Joseph Cromwell and Freeborn Garrettson spoke. At the recommenda­tion of the conference William Watters too; these three volunteered, and were to be my spokesmen. Myself and brother Garrettson are going to the Virginia Conference, to bring about peace and union. I am kept in peace, through much business; little sleep, cold weather and damp. Lord, return, and visit us!

Friday, 28. I have peace, and am going to brother William Lynch's this day. I had a melting sense of Divine love upon my heart after thnner: this family professeth sanctification; whether this be so in the fullest sense I know not; but this I know, that they are much more spiritual than ever I knew them: so far it is well, and we go upon safe ground.

Saturday, 29. Rode to Mr. Gough's; this is a good house to do business at.

Sunday, 30. I went to the Fork preaching house; an Episcopalian minister preaching just by. Spoke on Psalm lxxviii, 4-8. It was not made a great blessing to the people: I was much tried to know if the subject was proper, and I think it was; I could not make choice of any other. Spoke at Mr. G-_'s, on 1 Peter i, 5-10; had only the family to preach to. This is not like Kent (in Delaware) for life and congregations. There were many of us, and much talking prevented my reading, writing, and praying.

Monday, May 1, 1780. I am going to Virginia; am kept, but not so much employed for God as I ought to be. Preached at Baltimore on John v, 19. A ramy night, but many came to hear.

348                                                                                    MARYLAND May 2, 1780

Tuesday, 2. I rode to John Worthington's,29 and spoke at night; God was present. I once had an opportunity of seeing Charles Scott,30 apparently full of the Holy Ghost; but what is he now! He died in a drunken revel.

Virginia

Wednesday, 3. I rode to Georgetown, from thence to William Adams's in Virginia; came in late and fatigued.

Thursday, 4. Prepared some papers for Virginia Conference. I go with a heavy heart; and fear the violence of a party of positive men: Lord, give me wisdom. I preached at the chapel in Fairfax ;31 and met Mr. Griffith, an Episcopal minister, who was friendly; and we spent the afternoon together.

Friday, 5. Set out in company with brother Freeborn Garrettson,32 rode near forty miles, lodged at Garratt's tavern, where we were well enter­tained. Brother Garrettson talked to the landlord on the subject of re­ligion, and prayed with him at night and in the morning, though he would not consent to call his family together. We rode on to Mr. Arnold's,33 about thirty miles, the roads good. Brother Garrettson will let no person escape a religious lecture that comes in his way. Sure he is faithful, but what am 1? We found the plague was begun; the good man Arnold was warm for the ordinances. I spoke on "Strive to enter in at the strait gate." There were about forty people, but dead enough.

29 John Worthington and his wife Ann, a daughter of Nicholas Dorsey, resided in the Jessup-Fort Meade Junction of Howard County. For nearly a decade the Worthing­ton home was open for preaching and quarterly meetings, but there is no evidence of Asbury's being a guest there after June 8, 1783. (See Journal entry for that date.)

30 Charles Scott, whose name appeared as "on file" in 1781, was appointed to the Frederick Circuit that year. The tribute to Scott on October 30, 1780, Asbury later was obliged to retract. (See note under that date.)

31 This was Adams' Chapel. (See note under June 16, 1777.)

32 Sweet, Men of Zeal, 136, says, "Of all the native preachers, Freeborn Garrettson undoubtedly stands at the head of the list in total influence exerted on the development of American Methodism." He was born in Maryland in 1752. His parents belonged to the Established Church. The first Methodist he met was Robert Strawbridge; and through the influence of Strawbridge, Asbury, and Daniel Ruff he became a preacher. It was Garrettson who was sent out to summon the preachers to the Christmas Con­ference, where he was ordained. In 1787 he was made presiding elder of the Baltimore District and in the same year was appointed by Wesley to canada. He married Cather­ine Livingston, daughter of Judge Robert R. Livingston, and in later years they lived on the estate of Rhinebeck in New York. Both Garrettson and his wife inherited con­siderable estates, and Garrettson declined to accept any salary during his entire minis­terial career of more than fifty years. (Bangs: Life of Freeborn Garrettson, 151.)

33 This was George Arnold, who lived in Spottsylvania County and at whose home Asbury died in 1816. Asbury had traveled across Fairfax, Prince William, and Stafford counties.

VIRGINIA May 7,1780                                                                                           349

Sunday, 7. We rode eighteen miles to Brown's tavern.34 I preached on Isa. lv, 6, 7. On entering into Virginia, I have prepared some papers for the conference, and expect trouble, but grace is almighty; hitherto hath the Lord helped me.

Monday, 8. We rode to Granger's,35 fifteen miles; stopped and fed our horses. These people are full of the ordinances; we talked and prayed with them; then rode on to the Manakintown36 ferry, much fatigued with the ride: went to friend Smith's, where all the preachers were met: I con­ducted myself with cheerful freedom, but found there was a separation in heart and practice. I spoke with my countryman, John Dickins, and found him opposed to our continuance in union with the Episcopal Church; Brother Watters and Garrettson tried their men, and found them in flexible.

Tuesday, 9. The conference was called: brother Watters, Garrettson, and myself stood back, and being afterward joined by brother Dromgoole, we were desired to come in, and I was permitted to speak; I read Mr. Wesley's thoughts against a separation: showed my private letters of instructions from Mr. Wesley; set before them the sentiments of the Delaware and Baltimore conferences; read our epistles, and read my letter to brother Gatch, and Dickins's letter in answer. After some time spent this way, it was proposed to me, if I would get the circuits supplied, they would desist; but that I could not do. We went to preaching; I spoke on Ruth ii, 4, and spoke as though nothing had been the matter among the preachers or people; and we were greatly pleased and comforted; there was some moving among the people. In the afternoon we met; the preachers appeared to me to be farther off; there had been, I thought, some talking Dut of doors. When we-Asbury, Garrettson, Watters, and Dromgoole- could not come to a conclusion with them, we withdrew, and left them to 34 Brown's tavern was in Caroline County.

 Bennett, Memorials of Methodism in Virginia, 127, says that Granger's and Thomas Crenshaw's were the same place. Here Asbury established the first Sunday school. Tradition places this event in 1786, though H. Bernard in the American Journal of Education in the Library of Congress gives the date as 1783. Asbury visited the spot in the latter year, but there is no record of a visit to Crenshaw's in 1786. At least a dozen historians state that here was established the first Sunday school of the Raikes type in kmerica. It was in the Crenshaw home. On June 14, 1791, Thomas Crenshaw and eight )thers purchased a lot on Beaver Creek for a church in which Asbury and other persons thould preach, provided they adhered to the doctrines of Wesley. The Beaver Creek Church was one of three in the community, the others being St. Mark's and St. Peter's. The last named is still in existence and the direct descendant of the Crenshaw Sunday School.

 Manakintown was in Powhatan County and was a French Huguenot settlement. Dolonel William Byrd in 1698 invited the Huguenots who had fled from France and gone to England to come to Virginia. They cleared the lands abandoned by the Manacan Indians, the former foes of Powhatan. Manakintown was made famous in Methodist history by the conference held there this year and by the ordinances controversy. Gwathmey: Twelve Virginia Counties, 220-21.)

350                                                                                        VIRGINIA May 10,1780

deliberate on the conditions I offered, which was, to suspend the measures they had taken for one year. After an hour's conference, we were called to receive their answer, which was, they could not submit to the terms of union. I then prepared to leave the house, to go to a near neighbour's to lodge, under the heaviest cloud I ever felt in America: 0! what I felt !- nor I alone 1-but the agents on both sides! they wept like children, but kept their opinions.

Wednesday, 10. I returned to take leave of conference, and to go off immediately to the North; but found they were brought to an agreement while I had been praying, as with a broken heart, in the house we went to lodge at; and brother Watters and Garrettson had been praying upstairs where the conference sat. We heard what they had to say; surely the hand of God has been greatly seen in all this: there might have been twenty promising preachers, and three thousand people, seriously affected by this separation; but the Lord would not suffer this; we then had preaching by brother Watters on, "Come thou with us, and we will do thee good;" afterward we had a love feast; preachers and people wept, prayed, and talked, so that the spirit of dissension was powerfully weakened, and I hoped it would never take place again.

Thursday, 11. I rode to Petersburg, thirty-five miles, through much fatigue and want of rest; found myself indisposed with the headache. With difficulty I spoke at brother Harding's,³⁷ on, "We know that we are of God;" but was so unwell I could scarcely speak at all. Though having prevailed with God and man, I yet halt on my thigh.

Friday, 12. I am a little better; rest this day to write to Mr. Wesley. In Petersburg, our friends who had a little religion before these times, have declined; I fear their hearts are worldly. Some who had religion before these times have lost it; and many who had none, have gained much; like some who had no fortunes, have gained great ones; and many of those who had great fortunes, are in a fair way to lose them, if these times hold long.

Saturday, 13. Went to Nathaniel Lee's, and preached to about fifty people, on Eph. v, 8, and had freedom; the congregation small, owing to a muster and cock-fighting not far off. I then rode to Wood Tucker's, a great friend to the old plan of Methodism; and was kept in peace.

Sunday, 14. Rode to George Booth's ;38 he is a curious genius for a mechanic. We had a great house, and about three hundred people; I spoke on I Cor. ii, 14, plain, warm and searching; but they seemed in general careless: I fear there is but little solid, pure religion here.

Monday, 15. Was much exercised; Lord! keep me every moment. As this is rest day, I intend to employ my time in reading and writing princi­pally; but my spirit is restless various ways; and I think I ought always to be employed. I am for attending my twelve times of prayer, and resisting

~' See note under June 29, 1775.

~ Both Wood Tucker and George Booth lived in Dinwiddie County.

VIRGINIA Mayl6,1780                                                                                           351

the devil steadfastly in the faith. I am much humbled before the Lord; a blessing I want, and will not cease crying to the Lord for it. I read Dr. Chandler's Appeal to the Public; I think upon the whole he is right. Why might not the Protestant Episcopal Church have as much indulgence in America as any other society of people?

Tuesday, 16. Spent near an hour in private prayer, and twice in the family; then went to Nottoway church, where Mr. Jarratt gave an excellent sermon on, "A man shall be a hiding-place." He was rather shackled with his notes. We then had sacrament; afterward I returned to George Booth's, spent the evening with Mr. Jarratt, and found him as friendly as ever. He labours, but the people give him little or nothing.

Wednesday, 17. Rode to the Widow Heath's ;89 about seventy people were waiting for me; it was twenty miles, my horse lame, and the road rough; the enemy tried me just before I came to the house, as he generally does, if the distance is more than I expect; I spoke on Luke xiii, 23, and was pointed, and had liberty; God moved upon the hearts of the people; met the society, about fifteen pious people; most were blessed, and they seem all on stretch for holiness; spent my afternoon in reading and study. There seems to be some call for me in every part of the work: I have travelled at this time from north to south to keep peace and union: and 0! if a rent and separation had taken place, what work, what hurt to thous­ands of souls! It is now stopped, and if it had not, it might have been my fault; it may have been my fault that it took place; but I felt a timidity that I could not get over; preachers and people making the trial, they see the consequences, and I hope will do so no more. They have suffered for their forwardness. May we all be more prudent!

Thursday, 18. When I came to Andrews's the people had no notice; I was much tried on the way, my horse lame and the road rough; but I lifted up my heart to God. The family sent out and called in about sixty people, black and white. Spoke on Rev. xxii, 13-18. I had liberty, and felt a moving in my own soul. Two women were cut to the heart and were in an agony of soul for holiness: I prayed with them twice, while the people stayed, and afterward spoke to them; they both, notwithstanding their agony, had a clear sense of the blessing they stood in need of, and believed God had purified their hearts; I saw them both happily breathing a Divine calm and heavenly sweetness. I see clearly that to press the people to holi­ness, is the proper method to take them from contending for ordinances, or any less consequential things. I read and transcribed some of Potter's Church Government; and must prefer the Episcopal mode of Church Government to the Presbyterian. If the modern bishops were as the ancient Ones, all would be right; and there wants nothing but the spirit of the thing. Friday, 19. A very warm day. I rode over to Black Water to Bedding­ Asbury was traveling through Sussex and Southampton counties to Nansemond, and the places mentioned here were in those counties.

352                                                                                         VIRGINIA May2O,1780

fields, and spoke with liberty to about one hundred people, on Acts xxvi, 19; when I came to treat on sanctification, I melted into tenderness, and the people also; met class, and had a blessed tenderness among the people. Kept a fast day till four o'clock, then ate no meat. It is a day of peace and purity, but I might have been more in prayer. I called to see Capt. Nicholas; his wife is confined to her bed; but she was blessed: thank the Lord.

Saturday, 20. I rode to Bartlett's, ten miles, and preached to about thirty insensible people: afterward rode to Warren's, who was in distress, being of a melancholy cast, which is a family disorder. He is a man of understanding; and in time past followed the Quakers. He was in bed in perfect health: I raised him up, and after prayer he appeared better. The people are young, and have no deep sense of religion here; but they must have a trial.

Sunday, 21. I have a peace of mind, but fear we shall have few hearers today: it is not far from the rich and great upon James River. I read and transcribed some of Potter's Church Government, till ten o'clock; was assisted in speaking to about two hundred people, who appeared very ignorant and unfeeling. After awhile, I gave them another sermon, not very acceptable to me, and perhaps less so to them: however, I am clear- they are warned. We then set out at four o'clock, rode sixteen miles over high hills, and deep valleys, in the dark; but came safe: went to bed at eleven o'clock, and was up at five o'clock. It is well if this will do long:

I am always on the wing, but it is for God.

Monday, 22. I laboured with brother Hill; I showed him the evil of a separation, which he seems to be afraid of. Our people's leaving the Episcopal Church has occasioned the people of that Church to withdraw from our preaching. I preached on Rom. viii, 7-9, and had an opening; the people appeared pleased, and some wept, and I hope were profited. I advised our friends to attend the Episcopal Church, that prejudice might be removed; then their people will attend us: if I could stay, some would attend. We suffer much by young preachers and young people; yet they would do their duty if they knew it; but those that knew a little of our discipline, and have been first in the work, came into the notion of ordinances, and neglected the direction in the Minutes.

Tuesday, 23. I went to the great preaching house, in Nansemond: it has been a store house, now turned into a preaching house :40 there were

40 Nansemond Meeting House was an Established Church completed in 1752. It was a cross-shaped brick structure with a pipe organ and three galleries. It was torn down in 1802. Other Anglican churches used by the Methodists were Somerton Chapel in Nansemond County; Holy Neck Chapel, about three miles northwest of Somerton which was later taken over by James O'Kelly, and used as a Methodist, then a Re­publican Methodist, and later as a Christian church; Nottoway Chapel in the present Southampton County, and Cyprus Chapel in Nansemond County, one mile west of Dismal Swamp, which also was taken over by James O'Kelly and became a Christian church. (See Mason: Colonial Churches in Tidewater, Virginia, 186.)

VIRGINIA May24,1780                                                                                        353

about three hundred people: I saw but one trifler among them; and he arose and went out, when I came about the consciences of the sinners. I spoke on 1 Pet. iv, 18; had uncommon freedom; they appear to be an affectionate, good people; they collected me money, but I took none; a man offered me a silver dollar, but I could not take it, lest they should say I came for money. There is a general prospect of a work; the minister, Mr. Burgess, is a very respectable man, and preaches, the people say, plain good sermons. No doubt the introduction of the ordinances by us would be offensive where there is a clergyman so worthy. I had a meeting at night at Pinner's ;41 the society came. I exhorted them to holiness, and relative duties, and spoke of Satan's temptations; there was a great melt­ing. I read between preaching and the evening meeting, Bishop Burnett's plain and honest Account of the Earl of Rochester: it was a great thing to see such a man brought to God !-a check to infidels, a confirmation of truth. I was melted and filled with God. 0, how the Lord blesses me among these people! I have laboured to get our friends well affected to the Episcopal Church; what could I do better, when we had not the ordinances among us?

Wednesday, 24. I have peace, and power, and love to God. This was appointed for a rest day, but one of my old friends gave out for preaching. While I have my health, and God is with me, I shall never say it is enough. There is a prospect of a good work in Nansemond, Virginia; near one hundred people joined, in the neighbourhood. Rode to Philips's,42 six miles, and preached to about one hundred people. After preaching, rode on to the widow Lane's, twenty-five miles; rode over Black Water, through Southampton,43 and with hard riding (and some part bad roads) reached there about nine o'clock; where I slept in peace, and arose early. 0, for faith to be saved from all sin! At twelve o'clock went to preach, and God was with us of a truth, while I spoke upon 1 Pet. i, 7-12; afterward met the society, and gave the people liberty to speak; many of them spoke, and there were great meltings among them: one woman testified sanctifica­tion. I was blessed, and felt more spiritual; I can speak with a full heart till tears flow: the people are more moved by my easy speaking than ever before. Blessed be the Lord!

Sunday, 28. Yesterday I rode to William Graves's, spoke on Heb. iv, 13-15, and had some life. There were about thirty people to hear: met the class, then rode to Robert Jones's, twenty-five miles.44 Have peace this morning, but not so tender as I would always wish to be. I read a pamphlet written by Mr. Jarratt, in answer to the Baptists, in a dialogue; and I think

41 Pinner's was in Nansemond County.

42 Philips's was in Nansemond County. (Heads of Families, Virginia, 73.)

 The Blackwater River at this point is in Southampton, but the Widow Lane lived in Sussex County.

44 William Graves and Robert Jones both lived in Sussex County.

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it is well written, and ought to be published. I have had my mind tried about approaching troubles; but I ought rather to mind my own business, and trust all to God. Spoke at Robert Jones's, on Rev. xxi, 5-8. Some feared the soldiers would come to press our horses; but I bad faith to believe they would not; and was led out much in speaking. Some wild young men kept talking, till I came to that part fitted for them, then they listened. I met the class; they were stirred up, thirsting for full sanctifica­tion. I felt a tenderness for brother Hartley's sister,⁴⁵ who wept for his absence. Bless the Lord, who gives me to weep with them that weep! But 0! what must my dear parents feel for my absence! Ah! surely nothing in this world should keep me from them, but the care of souls; and nothing else could excuse me before God. I read my select Scriptures, the Law, the Sermon on the Mount, and the Revelation; and prayed often: God was with me. Preached at Mabry's ;46 they have built a new house: there was a woman sat by the desk, and cried, "Glory and praise! I drink of the water of life freely; I am at the fountain; my flesh praises God, I never heard such singing in my life." I spoke with great power from 2 Thess. i, 6-9, and then met society. This day has been a high day. Was led out to speak to saints and sinners; the people spoke in society; God was with us; some expressed their joy in the union. I rode to Booth's; and am kept in peace and love, and have great consolation in public and private.

Monday, 29. Read Mr. Wesley's second volume of Sermons; rode to Wood Tucker's; spoke on Heb. xii, 1-4. Then met society, or rather gave them an exhortation; the people of the world were by, and God was with us. I hope what was spoken was blessed to saint and sinner. I am kept by grace, though I have been in temptation.

Tuesday, 30. I arose at five o'clock, with peace of mind, and was em­ployed in writing letters to my friends in the Peninsula. Then rode to George Smith's, preached on 1 Peter iv, 17, to about sixty people: spent some time in speaking; but bad not as much liberty as at some other times. Spoke to the class; the people spoke afterward of the goodness of God. Afterward I rode to Boisseau's; some were gone home for fear of the horse-press. Captain Boisseau is dead, and the work dies with him. Before I had done prayer, there came up soldiers and horses; the people were affrighted, but there was no need: the officers came in, and sat down; one soon tired; the other could not stay it out. I spoke from 1 Peter v, 10, and addressed myself according to my audience; the people were greatly alarmed; I was tempted to go back to the north, there is such a commotion in the country; the troops are going to Camden, South Carolina. But I

45 Joseph Hartley was the preacher on the Dorchester, Maryland, circuit this year. (See Minutes.)

46 Joel Mabry lived in Brunswick County. This year, however, that part of Brunswick

County became Greensville County. Mabry's is sometimes listed in Brunswick and sometimes in Greensville County.

VIRGINIA May3l,1780                                                                                         355

must go on, and not faint in the way. I have been very well off; but am following trouble. What matters it, where I go, what comes upon me, if God is with me; or where I live or where I die, if holy and ready!

Wednesday, 31. I find some left the society here, at the time of the divi­sion; and between one thing and another, it is bad times here, and a sorrowful day with me.

Thursday, June 1, 1780. Rode to Mr. Jarratt's, and was kindly enter­tained. Preached in the barn to about seventy people; but not so lively as when I was here four years ago; spoke on 1 John iii, 23, had much free conversation among the people; Mr. Jarratt is as kind as formerly.

Friday, 2. Went to White Oak ;47 and spoke on Titus iii, 2-5, and was blessed: then met the society and spoke to the people. Mr. Jarratt wept, and all the people, at the joy of union.

Saturday, 3. Rode to Gillum Booth's, had about sixty people, and I spoke on Matt. vii, 21-23. Here Captain Benson⁴⁸ came twelve miles to see me; poor man, I wept over him, and exhorted him to seek the Lord; which, if he does not, I fear he will never come back; but his family are praying for him: I felt an uncommon love for him, and a hope God will bless and keep him alive in the day of battle. (1810. Now General Benson is living in Talbot, Maryland.)

Sunday, 4. 1 rode twelve miles to Mrs. Merritt's meeting house: there were about three hundred people, white and black. Spoke on Rom. ii, 7-9; after sermon I spoke to the society, some of them are happy souls; but there is a slackness in meeting: the rules of the society have not been kept up here. I spoke to some select friends about slave-keeping, but they could not bear it: this I know, God will plead the cause of the oppressed, though it gives offence to say so here. 0 Lord, banish the infernal spirit of slavery from thy dear Zion.

Monday, 5. I have peace; though I am grieved at some things: it will be long, I fear, before the good Virginia brethren will be brought into close discipline; though there are many gracious people.

Tuesday, 6. Have peace of mind: preached at Walker's barn on Heb. iii, 2. Met some faithful people in society. Have been reading Knox's first volume of Sermons; they are sublime, though not deep: I approve the spirit and principles of the man; he appears to be of the spirit of Mr. Magaw; he gives some favourable hints of restoration; that natural evil should purge out moral evil; but gave it not as his own opinion, but as that of others. In another place he says, "Perhaps the heathen world

 This was White Oak Chapel where the revival broke out in Jarratt's work. It was in Dinwjddje County.

48 Perry Benson (1751-1827), captain of Talbot County, Maryland, Militia in the Revolution, colonel of Maryland Militia in the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794, and cited in 1810 as General Benson, was the ancestor of Charles C. Duke, retired Baltimore banker and prominent active Baltimore Conference layman. (Maryland Sons of the American Revolution publication, Patriotic Maryland, 159.)

356                                                                                          VIRGINIA June 7,1780

shall have an after-trial;" if in time, it is true. So it sometimes is, that if a man is a rigid Calvinist, and turns, he must go quite round; but general redemption and conditional salvation is the plan. I keep up prayer in public or private twelve times a day; and am exercised not a little. Lord, keep me through the approaching troubles of the continent! I preached at Benjamin Johnson's; had many to hear, and some of the rich. Went as near the conscience as I could get; spoke on Luke xiii, 23-25, then met society, and had a melting time: the people spoke their experiences, and joyed in the union, and to see my face.

Wednesday, 7. Rode to Rose Creek; here my old friend William White would not come to hear me. Spoke on Rom. xiii, 11-13; was much as­sisted; all the friends were moved; but sinners are callous! God was with us. Thus the Lord made us to rejoice; and although there has been a falling off, I hope God will revive the people and his work in this place. Rode home with friend Rivers; and think I am more given up than ever I was in my life; I see the need of living near to God, to be able to preach the travails of God's people, to get freedom and love to bear with sinners, and to deal faithfully. I am labouring for God, and my soul is pressing after full salvation.

Thursday, 8. In my way I called to see friend Marks and family; he is worn down with family troubles: also called to see. Mrs. Clayburn at Brunswick court house; she is under some despondency from weakness of body. Spoke at Mark Crowder's on 1 Peter i, 5-10. The word was blest to believers. In society some spoke of the goodness of God. In the after­noon, I rode through a steep, dangerous place, into the river; but though it was frightful, I came safe over to Wharton's. Edward Dromgoole is a good preacher, but entangled with a family. We spoke of a plan for build­ing houses in every circuit for preachers' wives, and the society to supply their familes with bread and meat; so the preachers should travel from place to place, as when single: for unless something of the kind be done, we shall have no preachers but young ones, in a few years; they will marry and stop.

Friday, 9. Preached at Woolsey's barn, on Jude 20-22. James Morris exhorted, and the people were moved very much. I rode to friend Owen's, had the comfort to see my Portsmouth friends, and was pleased to find their faces Zionward.

Saturday, 10. Preached to about sixty people, was blest in speaking; rode on to my old friend, Samuel Yeargin's-as kind as ever, but a dissenter in heart. I spoke at the chapel with great power, on Isaiah iii, 10, 11. Here I was taken sick, a smart fever, I could get no farther; was very bad on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Providence dark; my spirits much dejected.

Wednesday, 14. Cannot read, write, think, pray, or speak much, I have such pain; but I trust in the Lord. It is no matter where I die, if in the

VIRGINIA June 15,1780                                                                                        357

Lord; I commend all to him: the more I suffer, the better it will be in the end, if it is for souls I labour and suffer.

Thursday, 15. I am better in health; but have the toothache violently, and am forced to use tobacco, that I had laid aside; but putting this in my tooth, I found some relief. Lord, give me patience! I am never so holy as when travelling and preaching: I hope to set out again tomorrow. Lord, give me patience under all my suffering, and a happy issue out of all, in thine own time! Have read as far as Isaiah, in going through my Bible; have but little time. I see the need of returning to my twelve times of prayer; I have been hindered and interrupted by pains and fevers. Pain is trying; but I am kept from murmuring hitherto. Satan has tried me, and I have had some dejection of spirit. Lord, keep me every moment!

North Carolina

Friday, 16. I crossed Roanoke (North Carolina),49 felt a little better, though weak. We rode near thirty miles, was like to faint in the carriage; but at brother Edward's50 felt refreshed, and ease from pain; slept well; blessed be God!

Saturday, 17. I am in peace, and much blest always when travelling. Preached at Jones's barn⁵' to about one hundred people; spoke on Heb. iv, 11-15; was weak, but spoke long. A few felt and understood. The unawakened appeared unmoved; my discourse was not for them. I think my immediate call is to the people of God: others seem in a hardened state; they have heard much, obeyed little. Went to Mrs. Yancy's52 an

"Asbury entered Halifax County, North Carolina, near present Roanoke Rapids. It was his first tour through that state. His leading purpose was to heal the split caused by the action of the Virginians on the sacraments. Pilmoor had been in the state in 1773 and preached the first Methodist sermon at Currituck Court House, being entertained by Colonel Hallowell Williams, an active Methodist. There were Methodists in North Carolina much earlier, having come down from Virginia or converted by George Whitefield, who toured the state in 1739-40. No society was formed, however, until Robert Williams extended his Petersburg Circuit across the state line to Bute and Halifax counties in 1773 or 1774. When Asbury arrived in 1780, there were four circuits in North Carolina, and Asbury covered three of them. He traveled for two months in twelve counties, and his movements can be traced only approximately and with great difficulty. (Grissom: History of Methodism in North Carolina, 29, 35; Woodmason: The Carolina Backcountry on the Eve of the Revolution, 20.)

50 Edwards probably lived in Northampton County near the Halifax line.

51 Jones's barn seems to have been in Halifax County, North Caroina. Jesse Lee

preached his first sermon "at a place called the Old Barn" on this circuit while assisting

John Dickins, who lived in the county. (Lee: Life and Times of the Rev. Jesse Lee, 64.)

There was a Jones Chapel in Sussex County, Virginia; and in a "barn near Brother

Jones' house" Methodist meetings were held. (Sweet: Virginia Methodism, 121, 122, 160.)

 "Mrs. Yancy was one of the most self-denying, holy women that ever was; the Rev. John Dickins married a Miss Yancy." (Lednum, op. cit., 173.)

358                                                     NORTH CAROLINA June 18, 1780

afflicted, distressed wom