Chapter 5

Virginia

Monday, January 1, 1776. j am now entering on a new year, and am of late constantly happy, feeling my heart much taken up with God, and hope thus to live and thus to die. Or, if there should be any alteration, may it be for the better, and not for the worse! This is my earnest desire and prayer to God.

"My residue of days or hours,

Thine, wholly thine, shall be;

And all my consecrated powers

A sacrifice to thee;

Till Jesus in the clouds appear

To saints on earth forgiven,

And bring the grand sabbatic year,

The jubilee of heaven."

On Wednesday my soul was in a sweet and humble frame, and my heart was expanded both in preaching and meeting the class. I returned to Owen Myrick's1 for lodging, and the next day after preaching spoke to about thirty lively souls at Warren's.

Wednesday, 10. Mr. and Mrs. Jarratt met me at friend Boisseau's and gave me a long narrative of a great work under Brother George Shadford. We held a watch-night, and Mr. Jarratt and I stood about two hours each. There appeared to be a great degree of Divine power amongst the people. Mr. Jarratt accompanied me to William Partridge's,2 where I

1 Lednum, op. cit., 185. 2Ibid., 303.

176 VIRGINIA January 14,1776

preached, and then pursued my way to Mr. Patrick's,' in Chesterfield, a good old saint of God. The Lord was with us there; and I afterward went on to Petersburg; and was glad to see my friends, though they were in some trouble about the times. To the great loss of many individuals, we are informed that Norfolk was burnt by the governor.

Lord's day, 14. I found myself at liberty in preaching in the morning, and then went to hear parson H.,4 who preached a good sermon. He came in the evening and heard me preach on the Jubilee, Lev. xxv, 9, 10. Brother George Shadford then met the class with great animation.

Monday, 15. We had many people at friend Lee's:' I have been reading Prideaux's Connexions, and my soul possesses peace and purity in Christ my Redeemer.

Wednesday, 17. The Lord is graciously working on the hearts of the people at F. Andrews's; but the Baptists endeavour to persuade the people that they have never been baptized. Like ghosts they haunt us from place to place. 0, the policy of Satan! Some he urges to neglect the ordinances altogether; others he urges to misunderstand them, or make additions to them. Christ, speaking of children, says: "Of such is the kingdom of heaven." But the practice of the Baptists says, They may be of the kingdom of glory, but they cannot be of the kingdom of grace. But, knowing that they who seduce souls must answer for them, I shall not break my peace about it, but leave them to God. I look on them as objects of pity, rather than objects of envy or contempt. The people also appeared to be much alive, on Thursday, at the widow A's.' Had a blessing in class meeting, and find my heart quite given up to God.

Friday, 19. Thanks be to God for his unspeakable love; my soul enjoys it in a greater and greater degree. Many people attended to hear the word to-day at the widow Lane's. The society consisted of about sixty souls, who appeared to be very lively and spiritual.

Lord's day, 21. It was a powerful time while I preached from Isaiah lxiii, 4: "The day of vengeance is in my heart, and the year of my Redeemed is come." Brother Jarratt, who was obliged to fly from Portsmouth, distressed by the late fire, met me here. On Monday we were all deeply affected with a sense of our unworthiness, at friend Phillips's, while I discoursed on the barren fig-tree.

Tuesday, 23. My soul was happy in God, and sweetly engaged in

'Ibid., 186. He was known as "Father Patrick." Evidently a minister of the Established Church.

'Nathaniel and Elizabeth Lee lived in Prince George County, Virginia, about sixteen miles from Petersburg. They were the parents of Jesse Lee, one of the most famous early Methodist preachers, the founder of Methodism in New England, and author of the first history of American Methodism.

0 On May 17, 1780, Asbury preached at Widow Heath's. (See Journal for that date.) Inasmuch as A and H are sometimes confused, the widow A and the widow Heath were probably the same person.

 

178 ViRGiNiA .January24,1776

prayer and reading. Several people were affected under the word at Mr. Lee's.

Wednesday, 24. I received a letter from Mr. Thomas Rankin, informing me that he had administered on brother Williams' will, and desiring me to pay attention to his affairs in these parts, and then return to Philadelphia by the first of March. Virginia pleases me in preference to all other places where I have been; but I am willing to leave it at the call of Providence. We were much comforted together at R. Jones's on Thursday; but the thought of having my mind taken up with brother Williams's affairs gives me some concern. I want no temporal business of any kind.

Tuesday, 30. The weather has been very cold, though I have attended every place in course; and both the people and myself have been frequently blessed. I have been reading Burnet's History of his Own Times, and am amazed at the intrigues of courts, and the treachery of men. There is reason to fear, the same cause produces the same effects at this time. For there is no probability of peace, and a great army is expected from England in the spring. May the Lord look upon us and help us!

Monday, February 5. Having attended the several appointments in the way, I came to Samuel Yeargan's, and met the preachers collected for the quarterly meeting. With mutual affection and brotherly freedom we discoursed on the things of God, and were well agreed. After Mr. Jarratt had preached, he and Mr. C.7 administered the Lord's Supper. There was much holy warmth of spirit in our love feast. On Thursday I intended to have set off for Philadelphia, but my horse is lame; so I must patiently submit to the providence of God.

Saturday, 10. Went to 0. Myrick's, and had the pleasure of seeing and encouraging some of my friends from Portsmouth.

Monday, 12. Rode about forty miles to Mr. Jarratt's. I found him a man of an agreeable spirit, and had some satisfaction in conversing with him. He has agreed, if convenient, to attend our next conference. The people were much affected at White Oak chapel on Friday; and after preaching I returned very weary to Mr. Jarratt's. All my desire is for the Lord, and more of his divine nature impressed on my soul. I long to be lost and swallowed up in God.

"My soul and all its powers,

Thine, wholly thine, shall be;

All, all my happy hours

I consecrate to thee:

Me to thine image now restore,

And I shall praise thee evermore."

Saturday, 17. Mr. Jarratt went with me to Captain Boisseau's and opened their new chapel with a discourse from these words, "In all

7An Established Church rector.

VIRGINIA February 18,1776 179

places where I record my name, I will come and bless thee." I spoke at night, and we found the Lord with us.

Lord's day, 18. I preached twice at Petersburg. The last subject was the rich man and Lazarus, which struck the people with great solemnity; and many seemed to feel the power of God. On Monday there were two Baptist preachers amongst the congregation. After the sermon was ended, they desired to speak with me. So we conversed about three hours on experimental, practical, and controversial divinity; but ended where we began. I thank the Lord, my mind was kept in peace and coolness. No doubt but Satan is very active in promoting religious controversies. Many take a controversial spirit for the spirit of religion; while others dispute away what little religion they have. "Only by pride cometh contention. The wisdom that cometh from above is pure and peaceable."

Wednesday, 21. Deep seriousness sat on the minds of the people under the preaching at friend Lynch's.8 And my preaching, for five times together, has been attended with blessed effects. But let all the glory be given to God! I am only as a pen in the hand of a writer, My soul longs for more spirituality, and to be totally dedicated to God.

Friday, 23. I set off for Philadelphia; and after meeting with various occurrences, heavy rains, and much fatigue, reached Leesburg on Thurs. day, 29. On Friday, March 1, my soul seemed to fix again on its centre, from which it had been measurably removed by a variety of difficulties, and found sweet peace with God. A company of lively people attended the word at Thomas Alliston's,9 where I met with brother William Watters. The attention of the audience was also much engaged on the Lord's day at the court house, while I discoursed with great affection and clearness of ideas. I afterward visited a poor unhappy man imprisoned for murder, but found him very ignorant; though he was brought under some concern before we parted.

Maryland

Left Leesburg on Monday, 4, and by the good providence of God, arrived safe at Baltimore on Thursday; but found the people greatly alarmed by the report of a man-of-war being near. Many of the inhabitants were moving out of town.10 Brother Watters preached in the evening. Thursday, 7. My heart mounts heavenward on wings of strong desire for more of God; and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding,

8See Tipple, op. cit., 94.

'Heads of Families in VirginIa, 17.

10 Hearing of the arrival of the British sloop "Otter," the inhabitants were thrown into consternation, and many fled the city as hasty defense measures were begun. (Scharf: History of Baltimore City and County, 72.)

180 MARYLAND March 10, 1776

keepeth my spirit in His knowledge and love. Here I met with brother Rodda, and found him under some exercises of mind towards Mr. Thomas Rankin. However, the temptation was removed before we parted. On Friday the town was all in commotion. It was reported that the man-of-war was in the river, which excited the serious attention of all the inhabitants; so that some were moving off, while others were getting under arms. Alas, for fallen man! He fears his fellow creatures, whose breath is in their nostrils, but fears not Him who is able to destroy body and soul in hell. If fire and sword at a small distance can so alarm us, how will poor impenitent sinners be alarmed when they find, by woeful experience, that they must drink the wine of the wrath of God, poured out without mixture

Lord's day, 10. The congregations were but small, so great has the consternation been. But I know the Lord governeth the world; therefore these things shall not trouble me. I will endeavour to be ready for life or death; so that, if death should come, my soul may joyfully quit this land of sorrow, and go to rest in the embraces of the blessed Jesus. 0 delightful felicity! There is no din of war; no unfriendly persecutors of piety; no enchanting world with concealed destruction; no malevolent spirit to disturb our peace: but all is purity, peace, and joy. Adapting my discourse to the occasion, I preached this evening from Isaiah i, 19, 20: "If ye be wiffing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: but if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it."

Monday, 11. Pursued my way as far as Mr. Henry Gough's,11 and was treated with great kindness. May this family evince that all things are possible with God; though their salvation should be attended with as much apparent difficulty as the passage of a camel through the eye of a needle! If they prove faithful stewards they will. I preached here the next day to a large congregation, amongst whom were some of my old friends from the (Gunpowder) Forks; and the Lord gave us a blessing together.

Wednesday, 13. Came to Josias Dallam's, and found his pious wife under hysterical complaints, and full of doubts about the state of her soul. Preached the next day, at a place by the way, with holy warmth of affection, to a considerable number of people.

11 This was Perry Hall, home of Henry Dorsey Gough, located about twelve miles northeast of Baltimore. It was one of the most pretentious mansions opened to the early Methodist itinerants; and after 1775, when Gough and his wife were awakened under the influence of Asbury, it became a regular preaching place. Mrs. Gough was among Methodism's most devout and influential women, and the Gough home is distinguished in Methodist history as the place in which Wesley's English emissaries met with Asbury and others for a week of preparatory planning before the Christmas Conference. Only a remnant of the original manor-house remains. (Stevens, op. cit., I, 235-40; Lednum, op. cit., 153-57; Maryland Historical Magazine, XLV, 32-46; Smith, op. cit., 191-93, 201.)

pENNSYLVANIA March 19, 1776 181

Pennsylvania

Tuesday, 19. Under the divine protection I came safe to Philadelphia, having rode about 3,000 miles since I left it last. But heaven is my object, not earth. This springs my mind, and makes my burden light.

"The things eternal I pursue,

A happiness beyond the view

Of those that basely pant

For things by nature felt and seen:

Their honours, wealth, and pleasure mean,

I neither have nor want."

Here I met with Mr. Thomas Rankin in the spirit of love; and received a full account of what related to the unhappy Mr. (James) Dempster. I also received an affectionate letter from Mr. Wesley, and am truly sorry that the venerable man ever dipped into the politics of America.12 My desire is to live in love and peace with all men; to do them no harm, but all the good I can. However, it discovers Mr. Wesley's conscientious attachment to the government under which he lived. Had he been a subject of America, no doubt but he would have been as zealous an advocate of the American cause. But some inconsiderate persons have taken occasion to censure the Methodists in America, on account of Mr. Wesley's political sentiments.

Wednesday, 20. By the power of God my soul is kept, in the midst of all company, sweetly reposed on Jesus Christ. My desire is, with the most fervent love, to devote myself to Him that died for me.

Thursday, 21. A perfect calm pervaded my soul; and I found myself at full liberty in preaching from 2 Cor. vi, 2.

Friday, 22. How changeable are all things here, and especially in these precarious times! but my determination is, to cast all my care on the Lord, and bear with patience whatsoever may occur. May the Lord make me more indifferent both towards persons and things, and only intent on doing his will! On Saturday I visited Mrs. M., above eighty years of age, and very infirm; she is a friend to all Gospel preachers, and opens her house to make them welcome. If she should at last receive the Lord into her heart, it will be well.

Lord's day, 24. Brother Webster13 preached in the morning. Mr. Stringer at the Episcopal church was very severe upon the Quakers, but to little purpose. Two of their leading men, Gilbert Deacon and Alexander Bartram, 14 came very kindly to see Mr. Thomas Rankin.

. 12 In 1775 John Wesley had severely attacked the position of the American colonies

in his A Calm Address to our American Colonies. This was to be followed up in 1777 by

a more moderate publication entitled A Calm Address to the Inhabitants of England. 13 Richard Webster had been stationed on the Chester Circuit.

14 Gilbert Deacon and Alexander Bartram were vestrymen at St. Paul's Church.

182 PENNSYLVANIA March 25, 1776

Monday, 25. I had an opportunity of speaking to John Wade relative to his leaving the work; and he manifested some inclination to return. My soul was greatly blessed in meeting sister Lambert Wilmer's class, and all present seemed to partake of the same blessing.

"The opening heavens around me shine

With beams of sacred bliss,

If Jesus shows his mercy mine,

And whispers I am his."

Tuesday, 26. My soul was blessed with divine serenity and consolation. May I ever be able to conduct myself with evangelical prudence, and so keep under my body, that I may always be the temple of God, by his Spirit that dwelleth in me! The next day also, my soul enjoyed the same delightful sense of the divine favour, and was fixed on God as on its centre, though in the midst of tumult. Glory to God! I can leave all the little affairs of this confused world to those men to whose province they pertain; and can comfortably go on in my proper business of instrumentally saving my own soul and those that hear me.

Friday, 29. Have been graciously assisted every time I have attempted to preach this week; and found a particular blessing to-day in speaking at the funeral of sister L., an old follower of Christ.

Saturday, 30. I persuaded John Wade to decline his thoughts of studying and settling, and return to his circuit. We had a powerful time in prayer meeting this evening.

Monday, April 1. My soul panted after God. We had a sudden and dreadful alarm of fire, which threatened a store-house, malt-house, and brew-house. It was not extinguished without great difficulty, and until much damage had been done. Man can neither defend his person nor his property in many cases, and yet how unwilling to commit himself and his property, in a proper manner, to God!

Tuesday, 2. My mind felt some dejection, but my peace was not interrupted. Amongst others in the congregation this evening, there was a woman of ninety years of age. The next day I was much employed in reading, and severely tempted by Satan, but was kept from all injury by the power of God.

Friday, 5. I heard a Moravian preach; but it was only a historical faith. And this being Good Friday, I preached from these pathetic words of Christ, "Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt." What mortal can form any idea of the blessed Saviour's feelings at that time, when his agony was so great as to express from his sinless body great drops of blood and water! Was it ever heard before, that any man sweat blood If Jesus found the punishment due to sin to be so severe, how will poor sinners themselves bear the eternal damnation of hell

pENNSYLVANIA April 7, 1776 183

Lord's day, 7. The Lord graciously assisted me in my public exercises both morning and evening. And on Monday my soul was in a pure and spiritual state.

Tuesday, 9. We bad a large congregation, and my heart was greatly expanded, while I discoursed on "the cloud of witnesses," from Heb. xii, 1. The power of God was eminently displayed on the minds of several; and one in particular was struck with deep conviction.

Thursday, 11. My soul was all on stretch for God both yesterday and to-day. Isaac Budd ()15 came to see me, and appeared to be in some distress. I prayed with him more than once, and he roared out for very anguish of spirit. Instead of being surprised that an awakened sinner should weep and cry aloud for mercy, we ought to be iafinitely more surprised, that an unforgiven sinner should manifest but little or no concern. If a man expected to lose all his property, and be put to bodily torture, could he be unconcerned But what is all this to the loss of God and heaven, and the torture of unquenchable fire Truly, if it were not for unbelief, we should see sinners on every side weeping and roaring aloud both day and night.

Saturday, 13. Was desired to visit a prisoner under sentence of death. I found he was an Englishman, had been an old soldier, and bad experienced the pardoning love of God in Ireland about twenty years ago, under Mr. Boardman. Thus we see that, although a soul has been blest with the favour of God, yet unfaithfulness may provoke the Almighty to give up such a person to work all kinds of sin with greediness. Then "let him that standeth, take heed lest he fall." On the Lord's day, my mind was shut up in preaching, and I felt the want of more faith for Philadelphia.

Monday, 15. I am not without a comfortable sense of the favour and presence of God, but labour under a lassitude of both body and mind. I went to the jail to visit the prisoners again, but could not obtain admittance. Mrs. Colesburgh (), formerly the wife of Gilbert Tennent,'6 attended our class meeting today, and my soul was much blessed amongst them.

Tuesday, 16. My heart was sweetly enlarged towards God, both in my private exercises and my public preaching. A friend from New York informed us, that troops were raised and entrenchments made in that city. O Lord, we are oppressed; undertake for us. I received a letter from friend Ely 17 at Trenton, complaining that the societies in that circuit had been neglected by the preachers.

15 This was probably Isaac Budd. Asbury had contact with the Budd family in Burlington County, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. (See Journal entries for April 25, 30, 31, 1776.)

16 See note under January 7, 1775.

17 George Ely was one of the trustees of the Trenton Society. (History of First Methodist Church, Trenton, 175th Anniversary Program, 1947.)

184 PENNSYLVANIA April 17, 1776

Wednesday, 17. My soul loves God and all mankind, but I cannot please all men. However, my conscience is void of offence both towards God and towards man. On Thursday we heard of a skirmish between the Philadelphia fleet and the Glasgow man-of-war. What will be the end of these things Lord, think upon us for good, and show us mercy! Preaching this evening, the powers of my soul were at full liberty, and I trust it was made a blessing to many.

Friday, 19. Satan has been thrusting at me, but by grace I am still kept; and my soul is employed in holy and heavenly exercises, with constant and delightful communion with God. 0! how I long to find every power of soul and body one continual sacrifice to God!

"If so poor a worm as I

May to thy great glory live,

All my actions sanctify,

All my words and thoughts receive:

Claim me for thy service; claim

All I have and all I am."

With great warmth of affection I went through the public exercises of the evening. On the Lord's day, my soul was given up to God; and it appeared to be a searching time in the public congregation.

Monday, 22. I found Christ in me the hope of glory: but felt a pleasing, painful sensation of spiritual hunger and thirst for more of God.

New Jersey

On Tuesday, April23 I rode to Burlington, and on the way my soul was filled with holy peace, and employed in heavenly contemplations: but found, to my grief, that many had so imbibed a martial spirit that they had lost the spirit of pure and undefiled religion. I preached from Rom. xiii, 11, but found it was a dry and barren time. And some who once ran well now walk disorderly. On Wednesday I rode to Trenton; and found very little there but spiritual coldness and deadness. Had very little liberty in preaching among them; thus has the Lord humbled me amongst my people. But I hope, through grace, to save myself, and, at least, some that hear me.

Thursday, 25. I rode about eleven miles, and preached to a people who were but very little moved: but at Isaac Budd's18 the next day there was more sensibility amongst the congregation; and, though very unwell, I found my heart warm and expanded in preaching to them. It is my 18 This was doubtless the person who visited Asbury on April 11. The Budd family lived in Burlington County, New Jersey. The will of Thomas Budd, April 8, 1776, mentioned his brothers, Isaac and Joseph, and left five pounds "to the Methodist meeting house at New Mills when the house is finished." The will of Mary Budd, widow, March 22, 1793, also left a similar amount to the New Mills church. (New Jersey Archives, 1st Series, Vol. 34; Abstracts of Wills, V, 74-75; VIII, 57.)

NEW JERSEY April 29, 1776 185

present determination to be more faithful in speaking to all that fall in my way, about spiritual and eternal matters. The people were very tender at friend Fiddler's" on Saturday. And on the Lord's day I spoke feelingly and pointedly to about three hundred souls at the meeting house. Afterward I returned, through the rain, to Trenton, and was well rewarded in my own. soul, while preaching to the congregation at night. I felt every word, which seemed to cut like a two-edged sword, and put me in mind of some of my former visits. May the Lord revive his work amongst them again; and make the time to come better than the former time!

Monday, 29. Satan beset me with powerful suggestions, striving to persuade me that I should never conquer all my spiritual enemies, but be overcome at last. However, the Lord was near, and filled my soul with peace. Blessed Lord, be ever with me, and suffer me not to yield to the tempter; no, not for a moment!

Tuesday, 30. Went about nine miles to our quarterly meeting at Hopewell; 20 and we had much of the power of God in our love feast, in which many declared their experience. I lectured in the evening at Isaac Budd's, though very weary: but my heart was with God; and I know we cannot tire or wear out in a better cause. On Wednesday rode back to Trenton, where I preached to about a hundred souls, and then went about thirty miles more to William Budd's.21

Thursday, May 2. Some melted under the word at Mount Holly,22 though at first they seemed inattentive and careless. The grace of God kept my spirit this day in sweet seriousness, without any mixture of sourness.

Saturday, 4. At New Mills I found brother Wiimore [] very busy about his chapel,23 which is thirty-six feet by twenty-eight, with a gallery 19 This was probably S. Fiddler, of "an old Methodist family" near Trenton. (Lednum, op. cit., 236.)

20 The Hopewell meetinghouse was "erected by the disciples of Mr. Whitefield, called 'Newlights,' and stood about nine miles from Trenton." (Ibid., 237.)

21 The Budds were prominent in the area. John, Eli, Samuel, and Jonathan Budd were trustees of the chapel.

22 Mount Folly, formerly called Bridgeton, is the county seat of Burlington County, New Jersey. The first Methodist to preach there was George Shadford, who preached in the Presbyterian Church, as did Thomas Rankin in September, 1774. Nothing more is heard of Methodist preaching there until 1781, when Caleb Pedicord and Joseph Cromwell were appointed to West Jersey. There was no society until 1805. In 1809 Joseph Totten held a quarterly meeting there and was obliged to preach in the door to full house and large numbers in the yard. He urged the necessity of a meetinghouse, and in 1810 a brick chapel thirty-six feet square was built on Brainard Street. (Woodward and Hagaman: History of Burlington County, 189.)

Mills was the present Pemberton, New Jersey. Brother Wilimore was probably Lambert Willmore, one of the trustees of the first Methodist church there, although ome historians have identified him with William Watters; however, Watters was in Virginia at this time. The chapel was on an acre of land conveyed by William Budd, Jr., in 1774. It was a little south of the present Methodist church. In 1833 it was sold to Solomon Middleton, moved to North Hanover Street, and remodeled into a resiience. (See Atkinson, op. cit., ch. vi; DeCou: The Historic Rancocas, 76.)

186 PENNSYLVANIA May 5, 1776

fifteen feet deep. I preached in it from Matt. vii, 7, with fervour, but not with freedom, and returned to William Budd's the same night.

Pennsylvania

Lord's day, 5. I preached at New Mills again, and it was a heart-affecting season: then returned to Philadelphia, but went under a heavy gloom of mind, and found my spirit much dejected and shut up.

Monday, 6. My mind was in a dissipated frame to-day: and we were alarmed with a report that ships-of-war were then in the (Delaware) river. However, I was blessed in meeting a class at night. My mind was more composed and comfortable the next day, but not so spiritual and heavenly as I desire it should be.

"Come, Lord, from above,

The mountains remove,

Overturn all that hinders the course of thy love:

My bosom inspire,

Enkindle the fire,

And wrap my whole soul in the flames of desire."

Preached at night from a text which corresponded with my own feelings:

"These are they which came out of great tribulation," &c.

Wednesday, 8. My spirit is much assaulted by Satan, but the Lord is my keeper. About ten o'clock to-day tidings arrived that there had been a skirmish off Christiana,24 between thirteen row-galleys and the Roebuck man-of-war; that, after an encounter of three or four hours, the man-of-war withdrew, as it was thought, much shattered. At this news the inhabitants of the city were all in commotion; and the women especially were greatly shocked. Lord, what a world is this! Give me wisdom and patience, that I may stand still and see the salvation of God.

Thursday, 9. My mind was free: and in meeting two classes we had much of the solemn power of God. At night I preached from these words, which are so applicable to the circumstances of the people: "We have no continuing city here." Many people seemed to feel the weight of this Divine truth, so suitable to their present condition.

Friday, 10. My soul is in sweet peace; and I only want to feel my heart continually flaming with pure love to God, carrying every desire and every thought towards heaven. Brother William Bell arrived here to-day; and we are now informed that some men were killed in the galleys, and the man-of-war was much damaged.

Lord's day, 12. Divine grace assisted and comforted me in all the exercises of the day. And although I spoke in strong and plain terms at night, yet the very soldiers bore it well. But the next day I was seized with a

24 Christiana was in Delaware.

PENNSYLVANIA May 15, 1776 187

severe chill, and was carried to my lodging very sick. I was in a heavy sweat till four o'clock the next morning, but nevertheless set out the next day, if possible to reach the conference: and came to Chester that night.

Wednesday, 15. I am still afflicted, but not forsaken; the Lord fills me with peace and consolation. Attempted to reach a quarterly meeting, but when I got to the place was obliged to go to bed. Though the next day, weak as I was, I went and held a love feast, and afterward preached; and the Lord gave me strength in my inward man.

Saturday, 18. My poor frame is much afflicted and shattered; but my mind is full of Divine tranquillity, ardently desirous to submit to the providence of God with inflexible patience. How amazing is the goodness of God! He raiseth up the best of friends-such as love, for Christ's sake, to show the kindest care for me in my affliction. Inasmuch as they have done it unto me, one of the least of his servants, they have done it unto Christ. And may he crown their kindness with an eternal reward! Was very unwell all thc Lord's day, but my great desire to be at conference induced me to make an attempt, on Monday, to travel. But by the time I had rode three miles, I found, if I travelled, it would be at the hazard of my life: and was therefore obliged to decline it, though the disappointment was very great. Let it be, Lord, not as I will, but as thou wilt! Brother Watters () went to a Quaker meeting, and began to speak; but some of the Friends desired him to sit down.

Tuesday, 21. My disorder seemed to be broken; but I was taken with a bleeding at the nose. The devil still bends his bow, and makes ready his arrows on the string; but the Lord suffers him not to wound me.

Thursday, 23. Visited Mrs. Rebecca Grace,25 an old disciple of Mr. Whitefield's; but now she entertains the Methodists. And on the Lord's day I ventured to preach to a small company of people.

Monday, 27. Expecting the preachers were on their return from the conference, I appointed preaching at my lodgings, but had to preach myself, to a small, attentive, tender company, and felt much quickened in my own soul. At night brother Rankin arrived, and informed me that I was appointed for Baltimore: to which I cheerfully submit, though it seems to be against my bodily health.

Wednesday, 29. My whole soul is devoted to God, and desires nothing but more of him. Brother Rankin and I both spoke to the congregation

25 Mrs. Rebecca Grace (1718-1800), twice widowed, lived at Coventry and owned ironworks there by inheritance from her first husband, Samuel Nutt, Jr. She had been a disciple of Whitefiled but rejected his Calvinism after reading Wesley's sermon on free grace and was a devoted Methodist. George Washington and his officers were often entertained by her while the army was at Valley Forge. Benjamin Franklin wanted to marry her, but she rejected him because of his religious views; he sent for her when he lay dying and she pointed him to religion. She died at the age of eighty-two. (McClintock: History of the Coventryville Methodist Church; see Journal entries for March 10, 1781; October 3, 1781; October 11, 1794.)

188 MARYLAND May3l,1776

collected at night, and the power of God was eminently present. On Thursday I wrote a letter to Mrs. W., who has departed from God, and feel great hopes it may be the means of restoring her.

Maryland

Friday, 31. Though far from being in a good state of health, I set off for my appointment, and reached Josias Dallam's at night.

Lord's day, June 2. Went to the chapel, and preached after brother Samuel Spraggs,26 and the people appeared to be deeply affected; but brother S. does not seem to enter into the Methodist plan of preaching. He uses a few pompous, swelling words, which pass for something great with short-sighted people! but are not calculated to do them much spiritual good. On Monday my soul enjoyed the peace of God; but I am frequently ashamed before the Lord, for indulging too great a flow of spirits in the company of my friends. Though I purpose, through grace, to begin anew. Lord, succour me by thy mighty power! We had a melting time amongst the people on Monday, at Josias Dallam's.

Tuesday, 4. Went to the widow Presbury's; and after I had done preaching, met a small class of about thirteen souls, who appeared to be sincere. My body is still very weak; but it is my determination to spend all the little remains of my strength for God, and the salvation of precious souls.

Wednesday, 5. Some felt the word of truth at the widow Phoebe Bond's, while I was showing what it is to walk after the flesh. But there appears to be a general flatness amongst the members of the class: they are neither so attentive nor so tender as they were two years ago. What a pity! that the nearer souls approach to eternity, the more unfit they should be to enter into that unchangeable place!

"Help me to watch and pray,

And on thyself rely;

Assured if I my trust betray,

I shall forever die."

Satan hunts my soul continually, and attacks me at times with the most powerful temptations: but he does not get any advantage, nor break my peace; but, on the contrary, drives me nearer to my Almighty Protector,

26 Samuel Spraggs became a traveling preacher in 1774. After serving in Virginia,

Philadelphia, and Maryland, Asbury conferred with him for the last time on March

10, 1778, before he, with George Shadford, disappeared behind the British lines. During

the seven years (1776-83) that New York disappeared from the Minutes because of

British occupancy, Spraggs joined John Mann in preserving the society in John Street.

Spraggs became the rector of the Old Protestant Episcopal Church in Elizabeth, New

Jersey, on the walls of which a marker acknowledges his services. (Lednum, op. cit.,

142; Stevens, op. cit., 1, 418-20; Wakeley, op. cit., 279-90.)

MARYLAND June6,1776 189

and I feel all my powers more abundantly given up to God, to serve him with all sincerity, fervency, and diligence.

Thursday, 6. Was greatly blessed in meditation and prayer, on my way to Mr. Harry Gough's; and there met with my good friend, Mr. Philip Rogers, and his wife. The next day my spirit was in heaviness through manifold temptations. I see the need of always standing sword in hand, against my adversary the devil. Our Lord displayed both great wisdom and great mercy, when he commanded us to watch and pray ALWAYS. May I show mercy on my own soul by always attending to this command! Lord's day, 9. Yesterday I preached with some satisfaction at Mr. Giles's; and rode to-day about twelve miles to the (Gunpowder) Forks, where I preached from Col. i, 28, and then met part of several classes.27 My feeble body was much fatigued with the exercises of the day, but my soul was delightfully taken up with God. On Monday, the congregation at Aquila Galloway's appeared as if they both understood and felt the two-edged sword of the word. I see the need of having my thoughts constantly employed on the things of God, that no vacant moment may be left for Satan to fill up.

Tuesday, 11. Rose with a deep sense of God resting on my mind, and set off for Mr. William Lynch's, which is about twenty miles from the house where I lodged; but by losing our way, we made it about thirty miles, and did not reach the place till about two o'clock. The Lord then rewarded me for my toil, while I was preaching to a serious, tender people; and I afterward endeavoured to unite the society, which Satan, by his diabolical wiles, had divided. On Wednesday the congregation at Joshua Owing's were so impenetrable that neither promises nor threats could move them. Nor did the people at Mr. Alexander Warfield's () seem to have much more sensibility, though I was greatly affected myself while preaching to them from 2 Corinthians vi, 2. The Lord has blessed me of late with much assistance in preaching, and with purity of heart.

Thursday, 13. Both the people and myself were moved by the word at Jacob Cassell's. My feeble frame is much fatigued with preaching twice a day; but it must drag on as long as it can; for it is my meat and drink, yea, it is the life of my soul, to be labouring for the salvation of mankind. I desire nothing but God, and to spend the remainder of my strength in suffering and labouring for him. Who that knows God, would be weary of such a master! And who that knows the worth of souls would be weary of striving to save them!

27 The Fork Meetinghouse derives its name from its location near the forks of Gunpowder Falls near Fallston, Harford County, Maryland. It stands on land donated by James Baker, who opened his home as a preaching place soon after hearing John King preach at the corner of Front and French streets, Baltimore. Here Robert Straw-bridge organized a Methodist society, and a chapel was erected in 1773. (Maryland, a Guide to the Old Line State, 305; Methodist Quarterly Review, 1856, 439; Lednum, op. Cit., 154; Henry Smith, op. cit., 212, 262.)

190 MARYLAND June 15,1776

Saturday, 15. After preaching in the Dutch church, 28 and meeting the class, I rode about five miles, through a heavy rain, and the wind was so powerful that it blew down trees, barns, and houses; so that it was with difficulty I could urge my way through the woods; but at length came safe to the widow Madeira's and enjoyed a comfortable hour in preaching from Luke xiv, 18, 19. On my coming to Baltimore, I met Mr. Thomas Rankin, and heard him preach. On Monday I rode to William Ridgely's, where we had a large company of people, and amongst the rest were two Baptist preachers. All this day my soul was happy in God.

Tuesday, 18. Though temptations hung upon my spirit, yet I found myself greatly enlarged at Mr. Evans's, while enforcing these striking words: "The end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, watching unto prayer." Returned on Wednesday to Baltimore, and spent some time with Mr. Otterbein. There are very few with whom I can find so much unity and freedom in conversation as with him. At night the words were a blessing to myself, and no doubt to others, while I expatiated on 2 Cor. iv, 5. I can rejoice in God, and cast all my care upon him.

Thursday, 20. Went to Nathan Perigau's and was fined five pounds for preaching the Gospel. But found my soul at liberty both in preaching and class meeting. We then went to Wiffiam Lynch's, and found N. L. under uncommon exercises of mind.

Saturday, 22. Returned to Baltimore; and although my peace is not broken, neither is any wrong temper or desire indulged, yet I lament the want of more spirituality. My soul, like the rising flame, would continually ascend to God.

Lord's day, 23. After preaching at the Point, I met the class, and then met the black people, some of whose unhappy masters forbid their coming for religious instruction. How will the Sons of oppression answer for their conduct, when the great Proprietor of all shall call them to an account! We had a serious audience in the evening at town.

Monday, 24. Spoke plainly on the nature of our society, and the necessity of discipline; which perhaps was not very pleasing to some who do not choose to join. I told them we could not, would not, and durst not allow any the privileges of members, who would not come under the discipline of the society. I desire to know no man after the flesh. My soul is in peace.

Tuesday, 25. James Foster, who has lately come from Virginia, gave me an agreeable account of the glorious spreading of the work of God in Virginia and North Carolina. The Lord is fulfilling his promises, and

28 Reisterstown, eighteen miles from Baltimore, was settled by Germans, who were called "Dutch." Benedict Swope, who also served a congregation on Pipe Creek, labored among them. Freeborn Garrettson mentions preaching in two "Dutch" churches in this general neighborhood in 1780. (Garrettson: Experiences and Travels, etc., 1791, 166, 170.)

MARYLAND June 26, 1776 191

pouring out his Holy Spirit on the people. Satan is still busy in his attempts to disturb, if he cannot destroy me: but my soul stays, and waits, and hangs on God, who makes me more than conqueror over all the assaults of the enemy. I preached to-day at the house of -, a man who has much talk, and but little religion. The whole congregation appeared to be very stupid. Rode thence to John Kelso's,29 and found a simple-hearted people. Here I met with poor M., who is keeping a school, which may perhaps be his last and best shift.

Wednesday, 26. This was a general fast day; and my heart was fixed on God. 1 preached at three o'clock at Mr. Darius Stansbury's and the power of God was displayed among the poorer part of the congregation. James Foster then met the class, like another George Shadford.

Thursday, 27. This was a day of trials. Satan drew my thoughts into a train of reasoning on subjects which were out of my reach; for secret things belong to God, but things which are revealed belong to us and our children. Thus, while I was soaring out of the region of my duty, I became inattentive to what immediately concerned me, and oversetting my chaise, broke it very much. Though, blessed be God, my body was preserved. May the Lord keep my soul united to himself, as its proper centre! However, [was greatly blessed in speaking to the people; and the power of God rested on the congregation.

Friday, 28. Going to my appointment, it rained much, and I got wet, which brought on a sore throat, and laid me up till July 9. For the greatest part of the time I could neither eat, drink, nor sieep, till the tumour broke. But glory to God! I possessed my soul in patience under the whole of the affliction; though my heart complains of its own ingratitude to my gracious Lord, who not only supported both soul and body under all my trouble, but provided tender friends, who treated me with the greatest affection. As a kind father dealeth with an afflicted son, so the Lord dealeth with me. What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits I will render thanksgiving and praise, and devote both body and soul to the Most High. During this affliction my abode was at Mr. Gough's.

I have now come to a determination, God willing, to go to the warm springs,30 and make a trial of them for the recovery of my health; perhaps my strength may be thereby so restored for future services, that upon the

29 John Kelso, a member of the Evans Meeting House, lived in the section of Baltimore now known as Mt. Washington. He was one of three brothers from Ireland. (Crook: Ireland and the Centenary of American Methodism, 168, 169.)

This was Berkeley Springs, Morgan County, West Virginia. The official name is Bath, alter the popular spa in England. George Washington was so impressed with the medicinal value of the springs while surveying lands for Lord Fairfax in 1748 that during later Seasons he visited it with his family. During Asbury's visit this health resort was thronged with the gay and prosperous who sought safety from the armies of the Revolutionary War. Their conduct met with the disapproval of Asbury.

192 MARYLAND Julyll,1776

whole there may be no loss of time. Richard Webster, William Lynch, and James Foster will supply the circuit in the mean time.

Thursday, July 11. My body is in some small measure restored, and God himself is the portion of my soul. May he ever keep me from every desire which does not directly or indirectly lead to himself!

Saturday, 13. My heart has been humbled and melted under a sense of the goodness of God. This day I set out for Baltimore on my way to the springs; but by the time I reached the town I felt a great disposition to weariness in my shattered frame, and my soul, which seemed to sympathize with the body, had not such a lively and steady sense of God as at some other times, though there was no desire after anything else. I ventured to preach both this evening and the next day; and humbly hope the word was made a blessing to many.

Monday, 15. We set off for the springs. Mr. Dallam overtook us in the evening; and that no opportunity might be lost, I lectured at night in the tavern where we lodged. And both the tavern-keeper and his wife appeared to have some thoughts about their souls. On Tuesday, we reached Frederick, and collecting as many people as we could by a short notice, I preached from 2 Corinthians vi, 2, and found my spirit at liberty. My body complains of so much travelling, for which it is almost incompetent; but the Spirit of the Lord is the support and comfort of my soul. I was thrown out of my chaise the next day, but was providentially kept from being much hurt. When we came to Hagerstown,31 it seemed as if Satan was the chief ruler there. The people were very busy in drinking, swearing, drumming, &c. My mind was disburdened and much comforted after I had delivered myself from Mark i, 16, though it seemed to answer but little purpose to the people. It is one thing for the preacher to do his duty, and another thing for the audience to do theirs.

West Virginia

July 18, 1776 - August 27, 1776

Thursday, 18. After riding forty miles to-day, we reached the springs :32 and at first we found it difficult to obtain lodgings. But after a while I pros' Methodism probably had its beginning in and near Hagerstown, Maryland, in

association with resident preachers of the United Brethren in Christ, among whom were Christian Newcomer and George Adam Geeting. In 1793 a small Methodist society had been organized in Hagerstown, and by 1812 Asbury preached in "the neat, new Methodist Chapel." (The Methodist Magazine, VI, 253-56; Boehm, op. cit., 392.)

32This is the first time that it can be definitely shown that Asbury entered the present West Virginia. (Lednum, op. cit., 169; Journal entries for July 23, 1776, and July 13, 1786.)

WEST VIRGINIA July 19, 1776 193

cured a good lodging with Mr. Merryman.33 Here was work enough for a preacher, if he desired to be faithful. My soul was happy; and I felt myself totally delivered from the fear of man-determined, by the grace of God, to discharge my duty.

Friday, 19. My soul was in peace; but the burden of the Lord rested upon me. I could not be satisfied till I declared to the people their danger and duty: which I did from Isaiah lv, 6, 7. They all behaved with decency, though it is more than probable that some of them had enough of my preaching.

Saturday, 20. We had a meeting in the evening (which we intend to have every evening at Mr. Gough's and Mr. Merryman's alternately) for prayer and exhortation; at which about twenty people attended. My spirit was grieved within me at the conduct of poor sinners; but in Jesus my Lord I had peace.

Lord's day, 21. A Church minister attended the public exhortation in the morning; and in the afternoon a dissenting minister preached from these excellent words, "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved." His discourse was very methodical-but dry, and full of academical stiffness. It was very unlikely to bring souls either to faith or repentance. I preached in the evening from Acts xiii, 26. But my spirit was so stirred up within me, by a desire that the people who were in their houses might hear, that by speaking too loud I hurt myself. We afterward had a good time in our prayer meeting.

Monday, 22. My soul enjoys sweet communion with God; but I am obliged to exercise patience in bearing with the manners of poor, blinded, hardened sinners.

"0 might they at last with sorrow return,

The pleasure to taste for which they were born;

Our Jesus receiving, our happiness prove- The joy of believing, the heaven of love !"

Tuesday, 23. The peace of God abideth constantly with me. I preached again by the side of a hill, near the bath; and the word had a melting influence on some of the congregation. The dissenting minister attended our prayer meeting in the evening, and prayed with us. By the blessing of God, my body began to feel the benefit of the waters. May the Lord bless these means for the entire restoration of my health; and in all my ways may I acknowledge him, and ever study to serve him with all I have, and all I am! Reading the lives of Halleburton, Walsh, and De Renty, has had a great tendency to quicken my soul. Our not growing in grace is seldom for the want of knowledge concerning our duty; but generally for

33 Henry Dorsey Gough of Perry Hall, Maryland, and Samuel Merryman of Maryland (see December 26, 1772) had summer cottages at the springs. (See entry for July 20 below. Smith, op. cit., 190, 204 if.)

194 WEST VIRGINIA July 24, 1776

want of using proper means to bring the knowledge we have into spiritual use. Our dull spirits must have line upon line, and precept upon precept.

Wednesday, 24. The congregation was rather increased; many were affected, and one man fell down. It clearly appears that I am in the line of my duty, in attending the springs: there is a manifest check to the overflowing tide of immorality, and the prejudices of many people are in a great degree removed. So that I hope my visit to this place will be for the benefit of the souls of some, as well as for the benefit of my own body; though preaching in the open air, to a people who are almost strangers to a praying spirit, is more disagreeable to my feelings, and a much greater cross than travelling and preaching in a circuit.

Friday, 26. My confidence was strong in the Lord, and accompanied with sweet consolation. My company and myself were quickened in our own souls, by a diligent use of the means; and the hearts of several others were under some religious impressions. But the zealous conversation and prayers of Mr. Gough seem to move and melt the hearts of the people more than my preaching does. Lord, send by whom thou wilt: only send to the conviction and salvation of immortal souls. I have found both reproof and instruction in reading the life of Mr. Walsh. At this time Christ is all in all to me. My heart is sweetly occupied by his gracious Spirit. But alas! I am not watchful enough to keep up the spirit of prayer.

"The praying spirit breathe,

The watching power impart:

From all entanglements beneath

Call off my peaceful heart."

Saturday, 27. There were many to hear the word at three o'clock; and the Lord was with us in the evening, when we were assembled for prayer and exhortation.

Lord's day, 28. My soul is kept in the love of God, but longs for an increase of the Divine gift. The workers of iniquity are not so bold as they were: some of them have had convictions, but lost them. Others seem stiffly to oppose the influences of Divine grace. Mr. Hagerty,34 who is commonly called the high-priest, on account of his height, preached today, and I stood clerk for him; but he seemed much dashed, and it was with difficulty he proceeded in his discourse, which was very dry. While I was preaching, my heart was drawn out in compassion to the people, and as the word was pointedly applied to their consciences, I believe some

34 John Hagerty (1747-1823), a convert of John King, became an itinerant in 1779

and was ordained deacon at the Christmas Conference in 1784. He could preach in

German. He located in 1793. (See Joshua Soule's biography of Hagerty in Methodist

Magazine, VII, 209-12; and his letters in Sweet, Religion on the American Frontier, the

Methodists, "The Edward Dromgoole Letters." See Journal entries for August 8,

1776; June 11, 1781; July 7, 1782; Lednum, op. cit., 245.)

WEST VIRGINIA 1u1y29,1776 195

good was done. So much public speaking is almost more than my frame can at present bear, but the Spirit within me constraineth me. I feel indeed the want of retirement in this place, yet I make a substitute of family exercises, and find communion with God. My soul has lately been much drawn out towards God in reading the life of Mr. Brainerd, and longs to be like him and every other faithful follower of Jesus Christ.

Monday, 29. My present mode of conduct is as follows-to read about a hundred pages a day; usually to pray in public five times a day; to preach in the open air every other day; and to lecture in prayer meeting every evening. And if it were in my power, I would do a thousand times as much for such a gracious and blessed Master. But in the midst of all my little employments, I feel myself as nothing, and Christ to me is all in all.

Tuesday, 30. My spirit was grieved to see so little of the fear of God, and such a contempt of sacred things as appeared in many of the people in this place. An enmity against God and his ways reigns in the hearts of all the unawakened, from the highest to the lowest. The Rev. Mr. Webster attended in the congregation to hear the word preached to-day.

Wednesday, 31. Spent some time in the woods alone with God, and found it a peculiar time of love and joy. 0 delightful employment! All my soul was centred in God! The next day I unexpectedly met with brother Webster; and while preaching at three o'clock to an increased company, the word produced great seriousness and attention. And we had a happy, powerful meeting in the evening at Mr. Gough's. But my mind is in some degree disturbed by the reports of battles and slaughters. It seems the Cherokee Indians have also begun to break out, and the English ships have been coasting to and fro, watching for some advantages: but what can they expect to accomplish without an army of two or three hundred thousand men And even then, there would be but little prospect of their success. 0 that this dispensation might answer its proper end! that the people would fear the Lord, and sincerely devote themselves to his service! Then, no doubt, wars and bloodshed would cease.

Friday, August 2. My soul was in a serious, solemn frame, but earnestly desired to be more universally devoted to God. Brother Webster preached to-day, and seemed a little abashed; but the Lord was with us in our evening exercises. How difficult it is to be much amongst men of the world and not imbibe their spirit in a greater or less degree! I am afraid my friends begin to grow somewhat languid in their spirits. How watchful, devout, and heavenly should we be, to keep up the power of inward religion, in the midst of such a company of sinners of diverse principles and manners! For my own part, I have had cause to lament the want of more watchfulness. Lord, help us to be faithful in all things, to all persons, and in all places!

Lord's day, 4. My heart was fixed, trusting in the Lord. Brother Webster preached much to the purpose, though there were some little inaccuracies

196 WEST VIRGINIA August5,1776

in his language. I preached in the afternoon, and brother Webster again at night; and it appeared to be a time of power.

Monday, 5. Having withdrawn to the woods for the purpose of self-examination, and pouring out my heart in prayer to God, I found myself much melted. Glory to God for a comfortable sense of the Divine favour! But alas! how serious, how solemn should I be, when so many immortal souls on every side are posting down to everlasting fire!

On Tuesday but few of the gentlemen attended to hear; but I was enabled to deliver my message faithfully and freely; and the common people heard me gladly. The next day also many attended, and I hope my labour will not be altogether in vain.

Thursday, 8. My heart was sweetly resigned to the will of my Lord. I was willing to do or suffer whatsoever he might see proper to require of me. Met with a man to-day who came from a place about eighteen miles from the springs. He never heard a Methodist before, nor saw one; yet he appeared to be a Methodist in principle, experience, and practice. He was brought to the knowledge of himself and of God by the means of sore afflictions of body, prayer, and reading. Thus we see the Lord works where, and in what manner he pleases. My spirit has been much united to the faithful people of God of every denomination; and at this time I felt a spirit of unity with Mr. Hagerty,35 a German minister,-though the Germans in general, who dwell in these parts, seem very insensible to the things of God. On Thursday night we had a mixed company of Germans and English; Mr. Hagerty preached in German and I in English. Our exercises in the evening were as usual. Many have been much affected lately, under the word which I have delivered from time to time for God.

Lord's day, 11. A fine, sensible, polite gentleman delivered a discourse on the new birth; he described it by its effects, but appeared to be at a total loss in respect to the manner in which it is wrought. I had spoken in the morning, and in the evening preached again, pressing religion on the young people especially, and showing the superior advantages and satisfaction arising from it even in this life.

Monday, 12. I rode seventeen miles to see a saint indeed; a woman confined to her bed for fifteen years, and quite happy in the love of God, though she had never seen a Methodist, or any other truly religious people. Where are the free-thinkers Is this priestcraft How can that be priest-craft, which no priest ever had a hand in No! this is the effect of Divine power and goodness: and so is all real, heart-felt religion. But if poor impenitent sinners will not give all diligence to know the comfort of enjoying religion, they will, they must, though much against their will, know, in due time, the misery of rejecting it. After I had preached, with some Divine assistance, to about one hundred people collected from the country parts around, we returned and had a comfortable time in our

35 Lednum, op. cit., 259. See Journal entry for July 28, 1776.

WEST VIRGINIA August 13, 1776 197

evening meeting. The house in which we live, at the springs, is not the most agreeable: the size of it is twenty feet by sixteen; and there are seven beds and sixteen persons therein, and some noisy children. So I dwell amongst briars and thorns; but my soul is in peace.

Tuesday, 13. I found the parson had been encouraging the gentlemen to oppose me, and intimating that it was very improper to permit me to preach. My soul is amongst lions, but the God of Daniel is with me. I attempted to preach in the day, but my mind was shut up; though my spirit was revived in the evening lecture. Is it strange to see a priest conducting a persecution against the people of God When did a persecution take place in which men of that character had no hand But although Satan may be permitted to transform himself into an angel of light for a season, yet he will not always have his own way in this matter.

Thursday, 15. My throat grew worse, and it was a rainy day, so I was obliged to be dumb; but having faithfully declared to them, from time to time, the whole counsel of God, both in his promises and threatenings, I felt myself contented as having delivered my own soul.

Friday, 16. My throat growing worse, they put a blister behind my ear; but my conscience was pure, and I quietly submitted to the will of Heaven. May the Lord keep me pure in heart, and humble at his feet, till he shall make up his jewels, and bring them into his glorious presence, where sorrow and sighing shall be done away! Glory to God, nothing has lately broken the peace of my tranquil breast!

Lord's day, 18. Found myself better, and felt a desire to preach, which I did; after having heard parson Webster (), and found myself at liberty while showing, 1. The natural state of the Gentile world: 2. Their spiritual ;tate: 3. The means and manner of their change: and lastly, I applied it to :he Christian world, so called,-heathens in their hearts and practices; and showed how vain it is to substitute heathen morality, or religious forms and ceremonies, for true religion. My friend Mr. Bruce" and his wife, from Portsmouth, arrived here to-day.

Thursday, 22. My soul has been daily grieved by the practices of poor blinded sinners; but the Lord has supported and comforted me. I have riot spared, but preached plainly and pointedly every day this week; and to-day Mr. Swope, 37 a German minister, went with me about nine miles to a German settlement, where we both preached in our proper tongues. Friday, 23. I had some serious conversation with a Quaker, on the subject of the Holy Scriptures as the grand criterion of all inward and outward religion. But to deny this, is to oppose the present dictates of the

36 This was probably Mr. Bruce who lived just outside of Portsmouth. Asbury had visited and preached there.

Benedict Schwope, or Swope, was an associate of Otterbein and one of the founders of the United Brethren Church. (See Drury: History of the United Brethren in Christ, numerous references; Journal entries for February 3 and 6, 1774; October 13, 1810.)

198 WEST VIRGINIA August 25, 1776

Holy Ghost to its former dictates; which would be a most dangerous absurdity. How strange, how presumptuous, to exalt the dignity of modern speakers beyond that of the prophets and apostles, who spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost, and have given us a sure word of prophecy, whereunto we do well that we take heed! (2 Pet. i, 19.) But we must come to the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. (Isaiah viii, 20.) We are sure that the Sacred Scriptures are of God; and we are as sure, if any man speak contrary to them, he is not of God.

Lord's day, 25. I have had strong confidence towards God, but my heart has not been so constantly and fervently employed in the spirit of prayer as it might have been. After preaching to-day, I fell in with one of the wildest Antinomians I had ever met with. He undertook to prove that love is not love; and said, "they that are born of God do not sin; but that they may sin in all manner of ways, and frequently do so." But what was most surprising, he said, "he valued not my God and Christ; for they could neither save nor damn him." Such language is enough to make a man shudder in repeating it.

Tuesday, 27. Having taken my leave yesterday, in discoursing on the parable of the sower, I this day turned my back on the springs, as the best and the worst place that I ever was in; good for health, but most injurious to religion. We then rode about twenty-five miles, and called to see friend Rawlings,38 but had to lodge on the boards. The next day a minister attended to hear the word at Dr. C.'s, and gave us a kind invitation to his lodging.

Maryland

Saturday, 31. I met brother Lynch and brother Foster at Mr. Gough's.39 Thus hath the Lord preserved me through various trials, and his providence hath conducted me back in safety. I enjoy more health, and perhaps possess more grace than before I went to the springs. Now, 0 Lord, only make and keep me pure; and let me be wholly and only thine! My soul was enlarged in preaching to-day, and many were melted under the word. I strove to prevail with brother Foster to go to Baltimore, but could not.

Lord's day, September 1. I rode to Gunpowder Neck, and preached twice. My soul was exceedingly happy in God, both in preaching and meeting the class; as it also was the next day at Josias Dallam's. But alas! we hear of bloodshed and slaughter.40 Many immortal souls are

38 Stephen Rawlings lived on Back Creek in Berkeley County, West Virginia. (See Journal entries for September 16 and 25, 1814.)

39 Lednum, op. cit., 167, 169.

40 Apparently Asbury was referring to the Battle of Long Island a few days earlier in which the Americans suffered defeat with heavy loss. With the occupation of New York

MARY LA ND September 6, 1776 199

driven to eternity by the bloody sword. This is a grief to my soul! Lord, scatter them that delight in war, and thirst for human blood! It is well for the righteous that this is not their home. No: they are blessed with a pacific spirit, and are bound for a kingdom of peace, where

"No horrid alarum of war

Shall break our eternal repose;

No sound of the trumpet is there

Where Jesus's Spirit o'erflows:

Appeased by the charms of thy grace,

We all shall in amity join,

And kindly each other embrace,

And love with a passion like thine."

Friday, 6. Having been much fatigued by long rides, and preaching and meeting classes every day, though for the most part both the people and myself were much quickened, I came to-day to my old and faithful friend's, Henry Watters's, and the people felt the two-edged sword of the word. Glory to God! I find a constant sense of his divine love, though still blame myself for being too free in conversation when amongst my friends. Lord's day, 8. The congregation at Bush Forest41 preaching house, appeared to be very insensible; and it seemed as if they had opposed the truth so long, that they could feel it no more. But at Deer Creek,42 my heart was warm, and the people were moved. On Monday I also preached twice; but on Tuesday it seemed as if my labour was too much for my strength. I have scarce had time to enter a few lines in my journal, but have been almost constantly employed in riding from place to place, and speaking to the people.

Wednesday, 11. The people were serious at William Bond's (). Here I saw the son of the famous Dr. Franklin (); but how unlike his father both in respect to grace and good sense! My soul now hangs on the Lord, and dwells in the element of purity; desirous of nothing but to enjoy more of God, and to be entirely dedicated to his service. On Thursday I found

by the British, the resentment created by Wesley's Calm Address, and the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the persecution of Asbury and his associates was increasing. (Stevens, op. cit., 1, 417; Bangs, op. cit., I, 117, 118.)

41 This chapel, located about two and a half miles southwest of Aberdeen, on the Bush Chapel Road, is mentioned by all writers of early Maryland Methodism. In Grace Methodist Church, Aberdeen, is the cornerstone of one of the several meeting-houses erected on the Bush Chapel site. It bears the original date, 1769. At present a memorial stone marks this historic spot. (See Journal entry for December 6, 1772.)

42 Reference probably is to the residence of Henry Watters located on the Thomas Run road about three miles north of Shuck's Corner and near the present Thomas Run church. The property, long in the possession of Judge James D. Watters, has undergone such extensive remodeling that uncertainty exists as to whether the original rooms built in 1760 and used for worship now exist. (Forman: Manors and Plantations of Maryland, 121; Preston, op. cit., 32; Miss Hannah S. Parker, Havre de Grace, Maryland.)

200 MARYLAND September 16, 1776

a loving, simple people at Thomas Bond's (), and was comforted in meeting the class; though I had been undesignedly led to reach beyond their capacity in my preaching. Friday, 13. I came to Mr. Gough's, and met with brother John Mann from New York, who brought painful accounts of bloodshed and slaughter. On Saturday, I felt unwell, and was apprehensive that my return to Baltimore might bring on my old complaints. We had a large company and a refreshing season at Mr. Gough's, where brother Foster exhorted after I bad preached.

Monday, 16. This was an abasing season. My soul was cast down and deeply humbled, under a consciousness of my spiritual wants. I did not enjoy such a cheerful sense of the divine goodness as at other times, but ardently panted for more of the Spirit of Christ.

Tuesday, 17. Both rich and poor came out to hear the word at Elk Ridge, and some of the young and gay were made to weep. It will be well for them, if they prefer Jesus Christ and his cross to all the wealth and vanity of this world. I went home with Caleb Dorsey,43 who was once convinced of sin, but has now grown worse than ever. He had about forty souls in his family, untaught as the Indians in the forest. They seem to roll in plenty: but "there is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked." At Mr. R.'s on Wednesday, we had but few to hear. But many or few, it makes no difference with me. The Lord filled me with divine consolation while I was dispensing the word of life to them.

Friday, 20. Returned to Baltimore, and found that a work which had cost some thousands of pounds, was burnt down. How easily can divine Providence strip us of all our earthly objects! Are not such occurrences loud calls from a gracious God "Lay up not for yourselves treasures upon earth, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven." I have been much enlarged in preaching, and favoured with peculiar nearness to God at certain times, for this week past; but have been also sorely tempted by the enemy, and found it required great exertions of faith and prayer, to conquer every motion. Glory to God for his grace bestowed on me through Jesus Christ! We have now several exhorters raised up in different parts of the country. This evening Mr. Rodda came to town.

Lord's day, 22. My labour was great. I preached twice, and met the white people and the black people separately at the Point; and after preaching in town, met a class. All this I could submit to with cheerfulness; but my spirit was grieved for the want of more holiness, and more of God.

43 Caleb Dorsey lived near Elk Ridge about eight miles southwest of downtown Baltimore. His house, "Belmont," built for his bride, Priscilla Hill, is still standing. A plate on the main door is inscribed "C and P 1738." Dorsey, who operated nearby iron mines, was among the first influential citizens to extend hospitality to the Methodist itinerants. (Forman, op. cit., 108; Bayard: Travels of a Frenchman in Maryland and Virginia with a Description of Philadelphia and Baltimore in 1791; Maryland, a Guide to the Old Line State, 309.) MARYLAND September 23, 1776 201

"0 grant that nothing in my soul

May dwell, but thy pure love alone:

0 may thy love possess me whole,- My joy, my treasure, and my crown:

Strange flames far from my heart remove;

My every act, word, thought, be love."

Monday, 23. My soul has been much harassed by Satan; though I found great freedom in preaching to a number of souls at the Point. On Tuesday also my spiritual exercises were great and painful. Lord, I am oppressed; undertake for me. Rode to Mr. Evans', and found the accuser of the brethren had taken advantage of the society, by tempting them one against another. But most of them and the congregation seemed to feel the power of the word preached.

Wednesday, 25. Though unwell, I returned to town, preached to a large and serious congregation, and endeavoured to secure, in a proper manner, our little building at the Point.44 Having preached at Nathan Perigau's on Thursday, I found William Lynch very sick on Friday; but the small company which was collected for worship, were deeply affected under the word. And, blessed be my all-sufficient Deliverer! my soul was in a great measure disburdened of its temptations, and restored to delightful access to God, especially in the exercise of prayer. 0 my God! keep me always near to thee; always humble and watchful!

Saturday, 28. At Mr. Gough's, I met the preachers, John Mann and Thomas Foster, and we had a great melting in public worship: my own soul also partook of the blessing.

Lord's day, 29. There were five or six hundred people at the Gunpowder Forks, to whom I discoursed on the judgments of God; and showed who are the provoking cause-not religious people, as the ignorant say, but those who transgress the laws of God in defiance of his justice. Thus it was with the antedjiuvians, with the Egyptians, with the apostate Israelites in the wilderness, with the inhabitants of Jerusalem after the coming of Christ, and thus it is with us. After preaching we held a love feast, and the power of God was present with us. Then went to Mr. Galloway's and preached to a large company there. After which I went home with Mr. Colgate, but found that my labour was too much for my strength, and had brought on a fever.

Monday, 30. Rode nine miles and preached at Mr. Merryman's (7), then six miles farther, and preached and met the society at Mr. G-r's; and the Lord was with us. I now find myself better both in body and mind, and know the truth of our Lord's words, "My grace is sufficient for thee."

"Strawberry Alley Chapel at Fell's Point was an unpretentious building 40 x 60

feet in dimension One who was familiar with it before it was demolished, about 1896,

describes it as "a large, low brick building, with an old-fashioned tub pulpit, and a

sounding board above it." (Baltimore Methodism and the General Conference of 1908,

202 MARYLAND October 4, 1776

Friday, October 4. Having travelled through the Barrens,45 and preached at several places, I came to brother C.'s, and met with William Lynch. And after preaching in a cold, open house, I rode to Mr. Rogers's and was happy in the company of my good friends. On Saturday I lodged at the house of Nicholas Jones, a happy, simple soul, the glory of this family.

Lord's day, 6. We had a great meeting at the widow M.'s. I preached at eleven o'clock to six or seven hundred souls; and then we held a love feast, in which many spoke of the goodness of God. We had five or six preachers and exhorters; so we also held a watch night from six o'clock tihl ten. And I felt as if it would have been no burden to have tarried in religious exercises all the night. The next evening likewise we had a very solemn watch night at William Ridgely's.

Wednesday, 9. Having received a letter from Mrs. M. of Middle River Neck, requesting me to go and preach a funeral sermon at the burial of her sister, I set out this morning in compliance with her request. We found it a serious, awful season: and after all was over, she offered me some money; but being in a place where I could receive my six pounds per quarter, which was sufficient for keeping me in clothes and a horse, I thankfully refused to take it. She was capable of making an excellent, useful Christian, and appeared to be under religious impressions.

Thursday, 10. At the head of the Middle River, I found a few poor, coldhearted, contentious people: but in the time of my preaching from Galatians v, 24, 25, most of them seemed much affected.

Saturday, 12. At Mr. Gatch's I met brother Rankin, who was just recovering from a late illness; and the next day we rode in company to the Point, where he preached a very profitable sermon: and the Lord applied the word to the hearts of the people, while I preached at night in town.

Monday, 14. My soul enjoyed the peace of God which passeth all understanding. Mr. Rankin went with me to Thomas Worthington's, and as he was unwell it fell on me to preach. I was greatly drawn out in my affections and ideas; and it was a tender, melting time. On Tuesday I preached with holy warmth at Mr. S.'s, though I had caught cold, and found myself much indisposed.

Wednesday, 16. Met with brother Wade, and as I found myself unwell, I requested him to take my place for a day, but could not prevail; so I patiently submitted to go on, and think hard of nothing that may occur. If Jesus Christ suffered so much in purchasing salvation for men, we may be wihling to suffer a little in carrying the glad tidings amongst them.

Friday, 18. My body continued unwell, and my labour has been tire45 The Barrens was the early name of a region in upper Harford County, Maryland,

and lower York County, Pennsylvania. The name was derived not from the lack of fertility but from having been denuded of trees by forest fires kindled by the Indians to improve their hunting-grounds. (Day: Historical Collections of Pennsylvania, 692; 1953 Harford County Directory, 363.)

MARYLAND October 20, 1776 203

some to the flesh, but my soul has been much blessed with an uninterrupted peace, and sweet communion with God. This is the time for suffering and toil, but a rest remaineth for the people of God.

"And what are all my suff'rings here,

If, Lord, thou count'st me meet,

With thy enraptured host to appear,

And worship at thy feet"

I went to the Fell's Point, and delivered my message to the congregation with much freedom. But the next day my spint was grieved to find that the love of some was waxing cold. When Christ cometh, wihi he find faith on the earth What an ungrateful creature is man! to taste and see that the Lord is good, and then turn again to folly!

Lord's day, 20. My spirit was much refreshed in preaching and meeting the little flock at the Point; and while I was preaching with peculiar sympathy in town, a poor sinner was so affected that he groaned as in an agony. If sinners could know as much of hell as the damned do, they would both groan and roar aloud: it is the blindness of their minds that keeps them so easy. On Monday, William Lynch, James Foster, brother Strawbridge and myself, held a watch night at the Point; and my soul was much quickened, though many of the people appeared to be dull.

Thursday, 24. At the funeral of Mr. T.'s son, I preached to about a thousand souls, and gave him such a character as I thought he deserved. Some were affected; but the funeral parade engaged the attention of too many. I spent about three hours in the different exercises suitable to the occasion, found myself pure from the blood of the people, and took nothing for my services.

Friday, 25. Being a day of rest from public exercises, I spent it in prayer, meditation, and reading; partly in Whitby's Notes,46 and partly in the Life of Solon, the Athenian philosopher.

Saturday, 26. Meeting with two of the preachers, we took sweet counsel together. And after I had preached the next day at Gunpowder Neck, we held a love feast. There was a great melting among the people, which I hope will be the first-fruits of a gracious harvest.

Monday, 28. The people were too destitute of spiritual life at Mr. Dallam's. But I found some faithful, lively souls, the next day, at Susquehanna.47

~Daniel Whitby, D.D. (1638-1726), was prebendary of Salisbury in England and a prolific writer on theological subjects.

47 Asbury may have had reference to Susquehanna Hundred in Harford County. It was a political division into which Maryland was divided for the purpose of levying taxes, enumerating the population and recruiting troops. The two Jacob Giles, father and son, the Litten and the Godfrey Watters families, and other supporters of Asbury's Work lived within the bounds of Susquehannah. (Maryland Genealogical Bulletin, X, No.4, 94; Brumbaugh MarylandRecords, II, 174-94; census of Susquehannah Hundred,

204 MARYLAND November 2, 1776

Saturday, November 2. For a few days past I have been variously exercised in preaching at different places. Some congregations were warm and earnest in religion; others were dull, and seemed to have but little relish for Divine things. To-day I came home to Henry Watters's, and, except the time employed in public and private exercises, I was taken up in reading Whitby's Comments. He is steady to his purpose in confuting Socinianism and Calvinism.

Lord's day, 3. "Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation." I know they that wait upon him shall renew their strength. He hath drawn me by the cords of his hove, and blessed me with sweet communion. In preaching and meeting class at Deer Creek, I felt so much of the worth of immortal souls more than usual, that I seemed as one awaking out of sleep.

Tuesday, 5. My spiritual trials have been heavy, but the Lord supported and gave me peace. Lord, sanctify me wholly, and keep me in the dust!

Thursday, 7. Have read Whitby's first volume as far as the end of the Acts. I preached and met class to-day at Thomas Bond's. And the next day at the Forks, I found a people that walk closely with God. Leaving them for the present, I went to meet Mr. Rankin, who was then recovered from his illness. On the Lord's day we were employed in public exercises at the widow Bond's. On Monday we had a heart-affecting time in prayer meeting at Deer Creek: and Tuesday, 12, we held our quarterly meeting.48 We had a very solemn time at the love feast, in which many spoke freely and feelingly of what God had done for their souls. After the preaching was ended and the temporal business all settled, we then laid a plan for regulating the public exercises of the local preachers; and concluded the whole in much love and good order. But these public times interrupt my private devotions and communion with God. It would be very disagreeable to live so always. One of the preachers brought an account of an apparition that appeared to a lad, and gave a particular account of being murdered by his fellow-soldier, requesting that the lad's father might lodge an information against the murderer: which was done. I was informed that the American and English armies were cannonading within a mile of each other, near New Rochelle.49 How much better would it be for mankind, to "seek peace and pursue it !"

48 There is reason to believe that present at this quarterly meeting besides Francis Asbury, James Foster, and John Wade, who were serving the Baltimore Circuit, and Thomas Rankin, Wesley's American assistant, were Freeborn Garrettson and William Watters. From the days of Robert Strawbridge many Maryland societies had produced local preachers whose work had been indispensable. Under Strawbridge, who assumed spiritual offices beyond those granted Wesley's authorized helpers, a growing restlessness occasioned the discussion to which Asbury refers. (Watters, op. cit., 55, 56; The Experiences and Travels of Freeborn Garreitson (1791), 55.)

49 On October 27, 1776, occurred the Battle of White Plains, which was sufficiently near New Rochelle, New York, to cause Asbury to locate it there.

MARYLAND November 13, 1776 205

Wednesday, 13. Was spent comfortably in company with the preachers.

We had a public meeting, in which we all prayed and exhorted: and the

Lord gave us his blessing. Brother King and I spent Thursday at Mr.

Gough's and on Friday I went to Baltimore.

Saturday, 16. The Spirit of the Lord applied the word to the hearts of the people, while I preached in town with much animation.

Lord's day, 17. It was difficult to reach the hearts of the congregation at the Point: but we had great satisfaction in the class meeting. Though my body was weak, and there were symptoms of a fever, yet I was enabled to preach with spiritual life and power at night in town.

Monday, 18. My body was disordered, and my spirit sensibly felt the burden of the flesh; but under all my weakness and pains, my soul was exceedingly happy in God. On Tuesday I was still unwell, and took a vomit. By Thursday I had got clear of my fevers, and on Friday met the preachers William Watters, William Lynch, and Caleb Pedicord. But my throat was now sore, and my mind a hittle uneasy on account of the disappointment in the circuit.

Lord's day, 24. I felt unwell, but went to the Point in the morning, where my mind was interrupted by the frequent coming of the people, almost to the very end of the sermon. After the preaching was over, I told them that [had rather they would stay at home, than come in such an irregular manner. The congregation were very serious in the evening at town. But I relt much exhausted.

Monday, 25. My soul was calm and comfortable. I have applied myself much to reading Whitby: but he has so much to say about different men's opinions, that it makes the labour of reading him too dry and tedious. Now I began to read the Christian Library. On Tuesday intended to go to Mr. Taylor's () but as there was a heavy rain, I thought it unsafe to venture so soon after my recovery. My soul has had complete victory over all sin, and been blessed with peaceable and calm fellowship with the Father and the Son. Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gifts!

Wednesday, 27. I went to Mr. Rogers's, where we held a watch night. My ideas were much contracted in preaching; but we had several exhorters present, and they ahl spoke. A great part of what they said was very simple, though well intended, no doubt. The society were greatly melted at Mr. Presbury's on Thursday; and on Friday I went to a place of William Moore's cultivation, and I found a society of about thirty serious, steady people.

Saturday, 30. Returning to Baltimore, I preached from Rom. viii, 38, 39. The congregation was small, but there was power in the word. It was now reported that the British troops were on their march to Philadelphia. Troubles may be at hand. But my design is, through grace, so to improve my time as to be always prepared for the worst. Poor sinners have cause to tremble at the approach of death; but even in that dreaded hour, the righteous can rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

206 MARYLAND December 1, 1776

Lord's day, December 1. Preached as usual both at town and Point; but some of the people seemed destitute of spiritual feelings. There is no small danger of their being given up to hardness of heart. If the word preached does not prove the savour of life unto life, it will prove the savour of death unto death. So that people may hear the word of God, and resist the operations of his Spirit, till they and their seats have an equal degree of spiritual sensibility when the word of God is preached.

Monday, 2. In reading Whitby on 1 Cor. iv, 4, I observed these words:

"Here also note in St. Paul another sense of justification; as it relates to our absolution from condemnation, and our approbation as righteous at the last day, which wihl be, saith he, according to our works, (2 Cor. v, 10,) and our fidelity in execution of the trusts committed to us, verse 2." We are commanded to follow Jesus Christ. And he, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame. So it is our duty to follow the example of Moses, who had respect unto the recompense of reward. Hence it appears, we are justified by the merits of Christ, through faith, in the day of conversion; and by the evidence of works in the day of judgment. Happy is the Christian who abounds with them!

Tuesday, 3. I was informed that proposals were in agitation for settling Mr. Swope, and allowing him a maintenance. But none of these things shall give me much distress. My soul quietly resteth in the Lord. I have some desire to know the issue of what relates to Philadelphia at this critical juncture. But there is a God who overruleth all these matters.

Thursday, 5. My soul was much enlarged to-day in preaching at Nathan Perigau's. I afterward went in company with Mr. Owings to brother Lynch's []. And on Friday, Nathan Perigau, William Moore, and myself, held a watch night. Saturday, I returned to Baltimore, in a spiritual frame of mind, and preached from John viii, 12: "He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness."

Lord's day, 8. My present practice is, to set apart about three hours out of every twenty-four for private prayer; but Satan labours much to interrupt me; nevertheless, my soul enjoys a sweet and peaceful nearness to God, for the most part, in these duties. I found some at the Point mourning for an interest in Jesus Christ. May the Lord, whom they seek, come suddenly into the temple of their disconsolate hearts!

Monday, 9. My ideas were clear and my heart was warm, while I was treating on the regal dignity of Christ, the nature of his government, and the privileges of his subjects.

Tuesday, 10. With the snow full in my face, I set out for Mr. Taylor's (). The flesh was reluctant for a while, but was brought to submit. When the mind is reconciled to duties and difficulties, then that which was hard becomes easy.

Thursday, 12. I was greatly assisted and blessed in my own soul, while preaching about two hours at a watch night at Mr. Presbury's. We have

MARYLAND December 15, 1776 207

many aharming accounts of martial preparations. But I leave the troubles of to-morrow till to-morrow comes. My desire is to live more to God to-day than yesterday, and to be more holy this hour than the last.

Lord's day, 15. The troubles of the times seemed so to engross the attention of the people, that the Congregation were very duhi while I preached at night in Baltimore, from Micah vi, 9: "The Lord's voice crieth unto the city, and the man of wisdom shall see thy name; hear ye the rod, and who hath appointed it." It seems Mr. Rankin is going to New York.

Thursday, 19. Received a narrative of the work of God in Virginia, written by Mr. Jarratt, to be sent to Mr. Wesley. The Lord has been displaying the power of his grace in a marvellous manner, through many parts of Virginia. An extract of the narrative is here subjoined.