Chapter 2

PRIOR TO THE CHRISTMAS CONFERENCE October 7, 1772-December 6, 1784

Asbury sailed from England on September 2, 1771, and landed at Phila- kiphia on October 27. He wrote to his parents immediately, but the letter r been lost. Several other letters have been lost. This letter is the first t has been found written by Asbury after coming to America. It is ad- wed to Joseph Asbury. He and his wife were still at Hampstead in Staf- hire. Asbury was evidently somewhat homesick/or home and England.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK October 7, 1772

[His Parents]

My very dear Parents:

May grace and peace be multiplied to you, now and ever! I have now received two letters from you, and a third came to New York, and was lost. I was then in Philadelphia. But I think I have sent four letters to you. Have you had one, my first, from Philadelphia, dated about the latter end of October, which I wrote soon after I landed, and sent by the way of Bristol

I am glad to hear you do not want the things of this life; for if you wanted these, it would trouble me much. I cannot comply at present with your request, as I think it is not the order of God. You would not have me leave the work God hath called me to, for the dearest friend in life. If the flesh will, your spirit will not. However, you may depend upon it, I will come home as soon as I can: but he that believeth shall not make haste. As I did not come here without counsels and prayers, I hope not to return without them, lest I should be like Jonah. I have seen enough to make me sick; but if I faint in the day of adversity, my strength is small. I am under Mr. Wesley's direction; and as he is a father and friend, I hope I shall never turn my back on him.

I-have found at length that Americans are more willing to hear than to ' do; notwithstanding, there is a considerable work of God. We have had a large opening in Virginia and Maryland, where Mr. Whitefield hardly ever preached with any success. The time to favor them I hope is come. Still old England for me. Yet this is a plentiful land; and if a poor man can live anywhere, he may live here. But my bread and water are sure, if I am faithful; and it is but little I want. I am not for making a fortune, but to convert souls to God.

'Tis one great disadvantage to me I am not polite [Word has changed. Formerly refined or cultured.] enough for the people, They deem me fit for the country, but not for the cities; and it is my greater misfortune I cannot, or will not, learn, and they cannot teach me. But as my father and mother were never very polite people, it is not so strange. And as I was not born so, nor educated after this sort, I cannot help it. Besides, I was in the wilderness till my showing to Israel. But I see the emptiness of human life, and am sick of the gaudy scenes of life. I cannot as yet seek great things for myself, for I believe there will be, and now is, a dreadful consumption on the earth among people who call themselves Christians, because of their conformity to the world.

There is a decay of the primitive spirit of religion. Woe unto us! foi we have sinned, and the plague is begun. There is a cry in the camp, an( who will stand up to make the hedge, or stand in the gap May I hope my father and mother will give their hearts to God, and aim at the prize ol their high calling of God in Christ Jesus Strive to be holy as he is holy so that you may finish well and in peace, that we may have sure and certain hopes of meeting in the kingdom of God together, to part no more Labour to support the preaching; it will not always be in vain. Stir up the people to meet together. Let me know whether there is much spiritual prosperity in the societies about. Let me know what is become of my mare I hope the Lord will bring us together in this world, to praise him; which we shall have great cause to do. Help me by your prayers, to be faithful to the grace given. My love to every inquiring friend; and am, as ever, Your loving and dutiful son,

F. Asbury

P.S. Joseph Firkins has been with me this morning and I see him often when in New York. We talk together about our own country. He is in a way to do well and would be glad to hear of his mother, how she does in temporals and in health and in soul. He gives his duty to her and love tc all friends. He tells me he has received a letter from young John Pirkins and has written an answer.

The Methodist Magazine, and Quarterly Review, 1831, 197-98f

According to the Journal this letter was written on Monday, January 2 Asbury had been preaching in and around Baltimore. In the letter he begi to show anxiety/or his beloved England. He was able to see that the Revol tion was brewing. At the time when other preachers were getting ready go back to England, he was more and more casting his lot with the coloni

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND January 24, 1773

[To his Parents]

Dear Father and Mother:

Grace and peace be with you now and ever! May it be the staff of your old age, and your consolation against the fear of death! These are to let you know I have not forgotten you; and though so many months absent, and so many miles distant, still my love and care are toward you. I often think of you, and many times pray for you. As to my own health of body and mind, I have not been so well I may say for months and years, through mercy.

I am now in Maryland, of which you have heard. Tis where they send the English convicts.[ Although the larger part of the English colonists came to America for the purpose ^ . of securing religious freedom or to better themselves in the social and economic scale, . f others were sent because the mother country wished to be rid of them. "The overseas possessions were valued ... as supplying an appropriate outlet for the energetic, the dissident, the oppressed, the debtors, the criminals and the failures of old England."- G. M. Trevelyan, History of England (Doubleday & Co.), II, 234. "It was men out of work or unfit for it who chose to go to America; and not men of the countryside so much as discredited idlers and would-be adventurers of the towns."-Woodrow Wilson, A History of the American People (Harper & Bros.), I, 45. "If a good many (though not many in comparison with the total) of the immigrants in the first century were taken from English jails, it does not mean that they were criminals. They had been jailed mostly for debt, vagrancy, or trifling thefts, at that time cruelly punished."- James Truslow Adams, The Epic of America, 49. "Decidedly less welcome were the murderers and other really vicious characters whom the English authorities insisted on dumping in the colonies, particularly in Maryland and Virginia. Frequent colonial protests were raised against the practice, but it was never completely abandoned through- out the colonial period."-Nelson Manfred Drake, A Short History of American Life (McGraw-Hill Book Co.), 9. "Some writers have estimated the number of convicted criminals sent to the colonies by the British Government at from ten thousand to twenty-five thousand, most of them being sent to Maryland and the middle colonies. See Scharf, 'History of Maryland,' Vol. 1, p. 371."-Footnote from James Wilford Garner and Henry Cabot Lodge, History of Nations, "United States" (P. F. Collier & Son, Corp.), XXIII, 130. (Russell Q. Chilcote.)]

Tis about a hundred miles (that is Baltimore) to the southward of Philadelphia. The people in these parts, some few years by now 'were buried in sensuality; but God has wrought a wonderful change to the hearts of many, and many are raised up to speak in his name. Poor Negroes have been deeply affected with the power of God. We have got one that will be fit to send to England soon, to preach. Here are Negroes who have astonished master of families, understanding men, when they have heard them pray; and if they were in England, they would shame their thousands. How many are there, rich and poor, who pretend to believe there is a God, yet never pray to that God, in private nor in public, nor in their families, no more than do their horses. Oh God! in the midst of wrath, remember mercy. Do not pour out thy wrath on these ^.' I prayerless, Christless mortals.

I am concerned for my country, though I have nothing to gain or los but I fear God will contend with them in a way of judgment. As thi have been favored with the Gospel, with peace and plenty, these merci abused, as they have been, call for vengeance. Surely no nation und heaven has been blessed with the Gospel like England. Oh ye inhabitants of England! repent and turn from all your transgressions, so iniquity she not be your ruin. I fear the storm is gathering, and the cloud will break ;on my dear countrymen, whose present and eternal interest I have much. at heart. I long for the salvation of their souls, that they may be brought home to the fold of Christ. Perhaps some may cast a heedless eye over these lines; and no doubt they will esteem me as a poor ignorant fanatic -fool as they know I always was,-and therefore all I could say had I weight, and consequently all I can write. But a fool may speak the truth sometimes, and then he should be heard; for truth is truth, come fro whom it may.

May I hope there are a few of my neighbours who lay eternal things heart, and do not forsake the assembling of themselves together, as t manner of some is; but exhort one another daily, while it is called to-day ;lest any of you should be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. I have need to stand on their watch, and not to think themselves safe they get into heaven; and blessed is the man that feareth always. There are many rocks to split upon, and many by-paths to lead the soul in God; therefore watch, and remember how I have warned you for ' space of three years, and God is my witness I sought nothing but the salvation of your souls. Ye were once the fruit of my labour, as I mi your salvation the care and travail of my soul; for though you have > thousand instructors you have not many fathers. But so it is sometimes we call our fathers fools, so wise we grow. No doubt our younger sons \ call us so.

I hope, my dear mother, you rest your soul, your all, into the hand the Lord; and that you do not sorrow for me as for one without ho Rejoice with me as one whom the Lord hath blessed in a strange land as an ambassador for God and Christ. I want for nothing, and if I sought great things I might have them; but these I will not, cannot seek. I d not take more than what just supplies my need. It shall never be said ) was my motive for entering into the ministry. I abhor that Demas spiritI bless God that for these eight or nine years I have been in (the work as a local and travelling preacher), I have had only plain food and raiment and I trust I shall never seek more; though I consider sometimes I here in a strange land, nothing to depend on but the kindness of friends .I am spending the best of my days, what shall I do when I am old But then I am taught to trust in the Lord, and give body and soul to him who has cared for me hitherto, and he will care for me to the end of my life. 1 if the Lord please I think I shall breathe in my own air in a few years; but September 5, 1773

I cannot say when, as the call for preachers is great, and I cannot leave the work. But as many are raised up here, and some may come with Mr. Wesley in the spring, I may be spared soon. I desire to live and move in the will of God.

Tis strange I have seen but one letter from you now these sixteen or seventeen months I have been in America; and as I am now so far from New York and Philadelphia where the letters come. If they come to the continent 'tis much, if they are not lost. But if you get mine, it is well, that you may be content. I can trust my parents, my all, into God's hands. Does my father give his heart to God Has he victory over sin more than ever Is his soul devoted to God It is a trial for us to be parted; but what will it be for us to be eternally parted Cutting, killing thought! 0 let us look out for an eternal habitation with God!

We have had exceeding fine weather to the middle of the month. We have had since some severe weather. I have a circuit of about two hundred miles, that I go round in three weeks. If some of our countrymen did but know how well they might live in this country, they would soon come, if they did as the Dutch, sell themselves and children for servants. There are many convicts who have served their time, and have made fortunes after- ward. Here are many thousand acres of good land that may be had for clearing, or little more. If a poor man can live any where he may here. Salute all my old friends and neighbours.

Your loving and dutiful son,

F. Asbury

On envelope

To Mr. Joseph Asbury at Mr. John Worleye's, Esq., at Hampstead Hall near Birmingham Staffordshire

Drew University Library

Asbury loved Baltimore. The Journal record for September 5 shows that it was Sunday and that he preached at the Point in the morning and in Baltimore in the evening to a large congregation. However, he observed that the inhabitants were much devoted to pride, idolatry, and every species of sin. Yet he asked the Lord to remember them in mercy.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

September 5, 1773

[To his Parents}

My dear Parents:

I long to hear oftener from you. I think I have had but two letters from you since I have been in America; but at such a distance we must expect

September 5, 1773

long returns. I am at present stationed in Maryland, and shall stay until Spring. Then, if the Lord spare me, I shall go to Virginia,[ He did not get to Virginia until May 29,1775, when he landed in Norfolk by boat having come from Philadelphia by way of Chester and Cecil Court House, from whiel place he embarked. Cecil Court House is the present Charlestown, Maryland.] and there con- tinue till May, when our Conference will begin in Philadelphia.

Mr. Rankin [Thomas Rankin, the preacher.] told me he saw [you], but I wonder you did not write. We ---- the preachers and people in much ---- order since the last preachers came over, and we have a prospect of much good.[ This sentence is partly illegible in the original, in consequence of a portion of tb letter having been torn off with the seal.] I have much to do here, as I am in the greatest part of the work, and we have many country-born preachers and exhorters. I bless God for health, I think better than ever; and I do feel my heart taken up with God and his work. When I consider the order and steadfastness of my own country friends, I wish almost to be with them. But I trust the time will come when I shall see them. Indeed, if I sought any thing but the glory of God, I should think this the only place in the world to answer my purpose. But God, that knows my heart, knoweth my desire is to spend and be spent in his service. I have had opportunities of pursuing fleshly ends, but I abhor them. In- deed, we have a land of plenty. We eat bread without scarceness.

I feel it my one great business to keep myself pure. The customs of a country are apt to stick to us without our notice. I see more and more every day what a preacher must be, and how he ought to live in public and private. I trust, my dear parents, you cleave to God, and both press on to a full conformity to the will of God, and the image of God,-holiness.,' Holiness becomes the house of God, whose house are ye. Let this be the mark for us, that Christ may be all. I am much taken up. Forgive the; shortness of my letters. I have often to ride and preach twice in the day-' time. My love to all friends. If I live, unless I should take a trip to the West Indies, I hope to be in England in less than two years.

From your obedient and loving son,

Francis Asbury

Drew University Library

This is the first of the letters in which Asbury deals with the appointments. These appointments do not agree with those listed in the Minutes fo\ 1773-74. Asbury shows his care for the preachers and especially his desirt for them to study. This day he had spent much time reading the works ant meditations of John Brandon. (See Journal.) There is evidence here of thi conflict which developed with Thomas Rankin.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

March 4, 1774

[To William Duke][ Preacher in Newcastle, Delaware. He desisted from traveling in 1779 and later became an Episcopal minister.]

My dear Billy:

If you have not had orders from Rankin [Thomas Rankin. ] I would direct you to go into the Jerseys to Philip Gatch,[ One of the early preachers. ] if Brother Strawbridge [Robert Strawbridge, the Irish preacher who started Methodism in Maryland. ] comes away as I expect he will. Unless the stranger that is about the country should go or be sent into the Jerseys then you need not go, but otherwise you must go and stay until the Conference, and as you have been a quarter in Newcastle it may be better for you to move. If there is a call in Newcastle I can send Richard Webster. I would have Daniel Ruff and Philip Gatch change the llth or 12th of April unless Mr. Rankin has given orders anyways to the contrary.

Now my Brother give your heart to God, be faithful to the gift of God that is in you, be much in prayer and reading the word and other profitable books that your profiting may appear to all. Keep your heart with all diligence. I believe your parents are well and after the Conference you will see them. Take every opportunity of getting knowledge and always consider yourself as ignorant and as having everything to learn. Stand at all possible distance from the female sex, that you be not betrayed by them that will damage the young mind and sink the aspiring soul and blast the prospect of the future man. I leave you to your Master and be sure you keep close to your faithful guide. I am as ever

Your loving friend and brother

Francis Asbury

Drew University Library

Asbury was appointed to Baltimore in 1773. In 1774 he was appointed to New York, but to change with Thomas Rankin in Philadelphia in three months. Evidently the change had been made as this letter was written from Philadelphia. Edward Dromgoole was appointed to Baltimore in 1774, but seems to have changed to Kent Circuit before January, 1775, as the envelope is addressed to Kent County. Dromgoole had/allowed Asbury in Baltimore, and Asbury planned to go back. There was some misunderstanding between them. On February 17, 1775, Asbury records in the Journal that he had a letter from Robert Strawbridge saying, "Mr. Dromgoole concurred in senti- ment relative to my going to Baltimore." On Saturday, February 25, 1775,

Asbury packed to leave on Monday for Baltimore. He arrived on time and stayed until May. The Minutes show that Asbury was appointed to Norfolk in May, 1775; andDromgoole was appointed to Brunswick, both in Virginia.

PHILADELPHIA, PA.

January 9, 1775 [To Edward Dromgoole][ Dromgoole was one of the earliest of the preachers. He had come from Ireland and appears in the Minutes in 1774 when he was admitted on trial. His greatest work was in Brunswick County, Virginia. Here he preached with George Shadford in the Great Awakening. He traveled from 1774 to 1780 and from 1783 to 1786 and located in Brunswick. He retained his local preacher's licence and preached regularly. He acci> mulated some wealth and reared a family, some of whom became distinguished. The;collection of Dromgoole's papers in the University of North Carolina Library is one of the outstanding early Methodist collections. This and two other letters of Asbury are in that collection as well as letters from John Dickins, John Hagarty, Devereux Jarratt,' John Wesley, and others to Dromgoole. (See minutes.) :]

My dear Friend:

Having this opportunity I send you a few lines to let you know that I am still the same, not offended, as you were afraid; but as my influence and fellowship among the young preachers[Those who like Strawbridge wished to perform the ordinances. ] has been much suspected, as stirring them up against those they should be in subjection to. I have dropt writing for ye sake of peace. Be assured I wish you good luck in the house of the Lord.

Am glad you have got such a large field of action. If you would do good you must live to God and give up every idol and not let one stand in the Temple of the Lord; [may] your soul make the words of God your study day and night. Always account yourself a learner, only when you go to preach take care of trifling, if you are free, use your liberty, prize your freedom. Remember you have escaped as with ye skin of your teeth --- but weak in body, hope my heart ---- has been for sometime.

I expect to stay here 2 months but know not where I shall go after. Give my kind love to all inquiring friends. Don't be discouraged that you are left alone, the Lord I hope will stand by you.

I am in much love and tender care as ever yours in the Best of Bond,

Fran. Asbury

On the envelope: To Edward Dromgoole

Kent County c/o Ed. Gibbs

University of North Carolina Library

An examination of the Journal shows that Asbury was much concerned';

because of war. It was evident that he was trying to influence Richard', Dallam. However, he was more concerned about Dallwri s faith.

SWAN CREEK, MARYLAND

September 2, 1776

[To Richard Dallam, Esq.][ Paymaster-general to the Flying Camp, New Brunswick, New Jersey. ]

My dear Friend:

Having an opportunity and a desire to write I break through my natural aversion. As to the office you bear and work you are employed in I say nothing, doubt not but you think it right, and with this conviction will pursue your way through difficulties seen and unseen. I likewise believe if you should ever see your wrong you will soon change your way.

But, to turn to a subject of greater importance, as my friend will confess, do you set God before you and often commune with your own heart Do you find time and retirement for this As to the speculative part of religion, of this you are not ignorant but have you the meek, pure, humble, self denying mind of Christ You know anything short of this will not do. "Tis a great work, a very short time for it, we have need to be doing with all our might waiting, watching, striving, praying. I often have and will pray for you that you may be kept and saved.

Have had a little conversation with Mrs. Dallam. I hope she is not without a desire for the salvation of her soul. May the Lord bring you both forward in the divine life speedily is the desire and prayer of him who is, my dear friend, your servant and friend in the best of bonds.

Francis Asbury

P.S. If you should see any of Mr. Wallace's[Probably Burton Wallace, a member of St. George's Church, Philadelphia. ] family please to remember me to them. Have found benefit by the Springs.[ Bath Springs, now Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. ] Am in good health. Fare well.

Drew University Library

This is only part of the letter. The remainder has not come to light. The day and month are not known. It is important because it gives some information on the disagreements between Thomas Rankin and Francis Asbury.

-1777

[To Joseph Benson}[ Joseph Benson, the preacher in England, became editor of The Methodist Magazine. ]

It appeared to me that his [Reference is to Thomas Rankin. (See letter to Benson, January 15, 1816.) Rankin returned to England, siding with England against America.] object was to sweep the continent of every

preacher that Mr. Wesley sent to it and of every respectable traveling preacher of Europe who had graduated among us, whether English or Irish. He told us that if we returned to our native country, we would be esteemed as such obedient, loyal subjects that we would obtain ordination in the grand Episcopal Church of England and come back to America with high respectability after the war was ended.

[Francis Asbury]

H. K. Carroll, Francis Asbury in the Making of American Methodism, 78

William Guirey, an early Methodist preacher, became a very severe critic of the episcopacy. He wrote a book entitled The History of the Episcopacy in Four Parts, from Its Rise to the Present Day. The book is not date,. There is a copy of a short letter of Asbury's in the book which was include under a picture of the head of a bull with the title at the top The Baltimore Methodist Bull. The Bull was a critical publication which was printed f( some time and was a thorn in Asbury's flesh. Asbury was referred to as tl Baltimore Methodist Bull. This letter refers to the Virginia preachers wk had met in 1779 and agreed to ordain their preachers. Guirey agrei with the Virginia preachers and considered Asbury to be most autocrati He also used this letter to fortify his argument against the episcopacy, f. led an O'Kellyite schism which became the Independent Christian Baptist Church. He later became editor of the Christian Sun.

BALTIMORE, Md.[ Though the place is not given, it can be supplied from the Journal.]

April 24, 178C

[To whom ][ It is not known to whom it was written.]

We disapprove of the step our brethren have taken in Virginia, and' look upon them no longer as Methodists in connection with Mr. West and us, till they come back. The only condition of our union with the shall be to suspend all their administrations for one year, and all meet Baltimore.

Francis Asbury

The following comment appears at the bottom of the letter and ' evidently put in by the editor of the Baltimore Methodist Bull. He wished Asbury had gone back to England with the early preachers who had America because of the Revolution.

"Does this bull need any comment Are any arguments necessary induce every virtuous American to execrate it Should not every friend to religion, liberty, and the Methodist connection, in America, lament that Mr. Asbury did not accompany the fugitive missionaries [19 Thomas Rankin and George Shadford were sent as missionaries to America by John Wesley. They sailed from England April 9, 1773. Rankin was a Scotsman. He was appointed by Wesley to be the superintendent of Methodism in America. The two missionaries landed in Philadelphia on June 3 and commenced work there. Asbury heard Rankin preach the night after his arrival. Rankin and Asbury went together to New York. Asbury went to New Rochelle, but returned to New York on the twenty- third and found Rankin "well employed in settling matters pertaining to the society." A revival of religion was in progress, and Rankin and Asbury were not of the same mind in reference to revivals. Strickland, Life and Times of Francis Asbury, 100, says, "Rankin manifested an opposition to the spirit of revivals, asserting that they tended to disgrace religion by the destruction of order. In this he was promptly met by Asbury, although he conceded that some enthusiasm and extravagance might occasionally exist in time of revival, yet deemed it injudicious to animadvert with severity on those exhibitions of passionate excitement which more or less accompanied deep and lasting revivals of religion." Rankin and Asbury were constitutionally different. Rankin was thoroughly British, and Asbury had already become American. Differences developed between them. Bangs, in his History, I, 86-87, 115-66, speaks of the differences. Asbury thought that Rankin assumed too much authority over the preachers and people. Rankin re- layed some of these differences to Wesley, and Wesley's mind became prejudiced against Asbury. On March 1, 1775, Wesley wrote to Rankin:] to England"

Guirey, The History of the Episcopacy Rare Book Collection, Library of Congress

"Dear Tommy,

"As soon as possible you must come to a full and clear explanation both with Brother Asbury and with Jemmy Dempster. But I advised Brother Asbury to return to England the first opportunity."

On April 21, 1775, Wesley wrote: "Brother Asbury has sent me a few lines and I thank him for them but I do not advise him to go to Antigua. Let him come home without delay."

On May 19, 1775, Wesley wrote Rankin again: "I doubt not but Brother Asbury and you will part friends. I hope I shall see him at the conference. He is quite an up- right man. I apprehend he will go through his work more cheerfully when he is with- in a little distance from me."

On August 13, 1775, Wesley wrote to Rankin: "I am not sorry that Brother Asbury stays with you another year. In that time it will be seen what God will do with North America, and you will easily judge whether our preachers are called to remain any longer therein." (See James M. Buckley, History of Methodism, I, 206-7, for portions of letters.)

Not being able to take test oaths or to sympathize with the colonies, Rankin returned to England. He says, "The British being in possession of Philadelphia, I left Maryland in September, and through divers dangers got safe into that city in the month of November. I spent the winter there, and left the Capes of Delaware on the 17th of March, 1778, and arrived safe at the Cove of Cork on the 15th of April." (The Arminian Magazine, II, 197, quoted by Buckley, 216.)

The letter to Joseph Benson, January 15, 1816, shows without doubt Asbury carried with him to the end of his life a feeling that Rankin had been responsible for the differences between Wesley and himself.

September 3, 1780

This letter to John Wesley is most important because it is the earliest extant letter to Wesley. However, it is clear from this that three other letters had been written in six months, and certainly he had written some before that. On September 3 and 4 he was at the home of Mr. Johnson in southern Virginia. On Sunday, the third, he refers to the day as the ninth anniversary of his sailing from Bristol to America. Evidently the other letters referred to the controversy over the ordinances. (See Journal, I.) This had been settled for the time being. However, there were some reactions in Virginia from M'Robert and Jarratt.

VIRGINIA September 3, 1780

[To John Wesley]

Rev. and very dear Sir:

This is the fourth letter I have written to you within the space of six months, not without some doubt whether either will reach you. Since my last I have been travelling through the circuits in Virginia & North Carolina and according to my abilities have been confirming the souls of them which have believed, that they may walk by the same rule, and mind the same thing. That violence for assistants introducing the ordinances is much cooled, but yet I must say our people are under great disadvant- ages, [See the following excerpts from correspondence between M'Robert and Devereux Jarratt in Virginia.] tho not such as will vindicate an alternation of old Methodism and

PROVIDENCE

July 13, 1780 [To the Rev. Mr. Devereux Jarratt}

Rev. and Dear Brother,

The methodists are a designing people, void of the generous and catholic spirit of the gospel-and so entirely under the influence of Pope John-and countenance so many illiterate creatures void of all prudence and discretion that I have no expectation of any good and lasting effects from their misguided zeal. Their professed adherence to the church is amazingly preposterous and disingenuous, and nothing but policy either in England or here. Your most affectionate brother, [ Archibald M'Robert

The Life of the Reverend Devereux Jarratt, 149

BATH [Parish, Va.]

August 2, 1780 [The Rev. Archibald M'Robert]

Rev. and Dear Brother,

I observe what you say with respect to the methodists, and concur with you in opin ion, with regard to the countenance given by them to ignorant and indiscreet men to be public preachers, &c. And to this I impute not a little of that contempt, which is

September 3, 1780

weak laymen acting as ministers. I think the want of opportunity suspends the force of duty to receive the Lord's supper. And it appears more and more plain to me that I ought to continue in the station of a preacher because God called me to and blessed me in this way, and not move one step forward or backward. I am oft time faint in body and mind, yet pursuing.

The climate, seasons and entertainment of this country make some difference with regard to my health, but still I keep God's glory in view and am ready to say all shall be alike to me if in my Lord I can live and die. I have been much blest in my own soul, for this six months past, nor could I have thought it possible for my frame to have stood such labours that I trust have not and will not be in vain in the Lord.

Many in the North and some in the South are daily coming home to God, and believers grow in grace, and that greatly under temptation and trials, this shall comfort us concerning our trial and sorrow. If we had an itinerant clergyman all our wants of ordinances would be supplied, but such a clergyman is a miracle; we have had but two in an age, yourself and Mr. Whitefield; the latter has left the world without a successor so I fear will the former. I hope, dear sir, if ever there should be peace between Britain and America, if you should live to see that blessed period, nothing

cast on the institutions of religion at present. I believe Mr. Wesley to be a wise and good man, and think his plan of methodism well devised for the promotion of vital piety. But surely his preachers in Europe are not such lame hands, as those among us.-You think their protest adherence to the church amazingly preposterous and disingenuous, -I have thought there were methodists sincerely attached to the church: but from some late movements, there is too much reason to call the sincerity of their profession of adherence into question*-I shall never forget these movements. I am your most affectionate brother, D. Jarratt

*What I refer to is Philip Gatch, &c. who undertook to be priests.

P.S. When I wrote this letter to Mr. M'Robert, I still thought there were some metho- dists sincerely attached to the church: for they still continued to profess themselves to be so, and I could not be so censorious as to harbour a suspicion, that men, who made such high pretensions to religion, could be so disingenuous as to profess to be, what they in heart were not.-But it appears, from what has since happened, that Mr. M'Robert's judgment of them was more accurate than mine.-How to reconcile such palpable insincerity to Christianity, I know not, nor shall I attempt it: and yet I cannot but hope that a number of them are good men, notwithstanding Mr. M'Robert, per- haps, very justly attributed their professed adherence to the church to nothing but policy. I feel myself disposed to put the most favourable construction on all their movements, which the nature of things will bear. Mr. Asbury is certainly the most indefatigable man in his travels and variety of labours, of any I am acquainted with: and though his strong passion for superiority and thirst for domination may contribute not a little to this, yet I hope, he is chiefly influenced by more laudable motives. How- ever if I err in this, I have this satisfaction, that it is an error founded in charity. I am yours most respectfully,

D. Jarratt

The Life of the Reverend Devereux Jarratt, 156-59

I will prevent your coining and laying your bones in America as dear Mr. Whitefield has done. Be assured the people of God in America are dear to me. With them I have laboured much and long and hope with some success. The very afflictions and sufferings I have had among them endear them to me, strange as it may appear, and bind me to the continent.

You have enclosed a bill and a letter to the society as the first and best return I could make. It will take me sometime to collect, sell and realize the books, as some are very unsaleable; others sold in times past and now to be paid for in currency; but be that as it may it shall be your loss. If Mr. Magaw's bill is answered be pleased to pay or order the sum of ten pounds to my trusty tried friend and dear brother Shadford [George Shadford, the preacher who had been the flaming evangelist of the awakening in Virginia on the Brunswick Circuit, had returned to England, as did Thorns Rankin. In the Minutes of 1779, Section 12, is "Ought not brother Asbury to act e General Assistant in America Answer-He ought: 1st on account of his age: 2n because originally appointed by Mr. Wesley: 3rd being joined with Messrs. Ranki and Shadford, by express order from Mr. Wesley."] as a discharge of part of the trust and care of the books and clothing left in my hands. To my Father or Mother, if in time, ten pounds, one and 7^, as some small atonement for my neglect of personal and filial duty, and God is my witness. I constantly and faithfully remember them at the Throne of Grace, that nothing but the work of God that is dearer to me than life, and all things, persons and places, keeps me from them and you. May I print any of your books [Asbury is referring in this letter to the controversy over the printing and sale < Wesley's books. Robert Williams, the preacher, had some printed without Wesley approval. The Minutes of 1773 say "None of the preachers in America to re-print ar of Mr. Wesley's books, without his authority (when it can be gotten) and the consei of their brethren, and Robert Williams to sell the books he has already printed, but i print no more unless under the above restrictions." Williams soon died in Virgin! and Asbury had to settle his accounts.] We are in great want. If ever the way should be open to send books, I would have none sent but the sermons in sets, old and new Testament notes-pocket volumes in sets, yours and Mr. Fletchers [The Rev. John Fletcher, the theologian of early Methodism. ] Appeals and the Checks, the journals, in sets; as to the Plain Accounts and Rules, these may be printed here, and Hymn book. The last assortment was huddled and improper.

I hope you will let my parents know when you hear from me. I am yours in due respect and such bonds as death can only break. I want youi friendly advice and shall receive it in love, both for myself and others while

Francis Asbury

N.B. I have sent the account at large of all you have here. Mr. Rankin' account will prove it just. Inclose and direct your letters to either W Gressett Davis in Petersburg, Virginia, merchant, or to Mr. Jesse Hollingsworth of Baltimore in Maryland, merchant. You may address them to the care of Mr. Thomas Shore, merchant, in Saint Estalia--

Randolph-Macon College Library in Virginia. However, the letter is a copy by W. G. Davis of Petersburg, Virginia, as shown on the letter. Copy also in the K

University of Virginia Library

Nothing is known about Stephen Donaldson. Evidently Asbury had had some word to the effect that Donaldson was thinking of leaving the Methodists. It seems that Donaldson had probably had some difficulties with the preachers as well as with some of the members.

FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA

May 16, 1782 [To Stephen Donaldson}[ There were two Donaldsons who lived in Fairfax County, Virginia, in 1782- William, who had a family of eight, and Andrew, who had a family of four. Stephen was probably a son of one of them since he is not listed in Heads of Families of Virginia, 16-17. Stephen Donaldson's post office was Leesburg. The letter was addressed there.]

My dear Brother:

I was pleased to receive a letter from you but should have been much more to have seen you when I was in Leesburg last, or at this Quarterly Meeting. I did not intend to make Leesburg on my way to South Branch, [ South branch ofPotomac River. ] but my not seeing you, and the hint you give of stumbling out of Society will lay me under a temptation to come by you. Oh my brother-if you stumble out of Society you cannot tell where it may end; woe to him that is alone. When you come to be as well acquainted with the weaknesses], want of religion, and loose walking, of the members of other societies, as you are with ours, you may see them as unworthy your fellowship as the Methodists, and yet I think it the indispensable duty of every man that fears God, to be a member of some religious society. You may be tried sometimes with yourself, and then Satan trys [tries-sic] you with others. Your trials I presume are only with the nominal preachers and people, not any real Methodists. Yet it is our misfortune to have some of these we disapprove; and find it hard to get rid of them; but this is a common calamity. Every one knows there are nominal Baptists, and Quakers, as well as Methodists, we may all look home.

I have heartily wished that some preachers and people had never been joined with us, and had I been present and consulted, they would not. I have not the exercise of the rod of discipline in every circuit but we must struggle along for a season, but hope not to be afflicted with the loss of my faithful Friends, when the spirit of division rages, and some we have put great confidence in rise up and draw away disciples after them. I hope you will consider well and not hastily leave Society, nor be slack in your attendance. I am in much love as ever

Yours

Francis Asbury

Methodist Historical Society of the Baltimore Conference (Lovely Lane Museum). Transcribed by Kenneth R. Rose

Asbury is bringing Shadford up to date on what has happened in Virginia. He had returned to England, and Asbury would like to have him return to America. The discussion of the ordinances had become a matter of argument in Maryland. It did not cease, however. In August, Asbury was in Pennsylvania.

PENNSYLVANIA [Written by Asbury about three months after the 1783 conference or about August 1783. " George Shadford, one of the earliest Methodist preachers. His greatest work was on the Brunswick Circuit, Virginia. (See note 19, Chapter II.)]

August -, 1783 [To George Shadford, England ]

Long has been thy absence; many, many have been the thoughts I have

had about thee, and my trials and consolations in losing and gaining friends. We have about 14,000 members, between 70 and 80 traveling preachers, between 30 and 40 circuits. Four clergymen [Established Church ministers.] have behaved themselves friendly in attending Quarterly Meetings, and recommending us by work and letter. They are Mr. Jarratt, in Virginia, as you know, Mr. Pettigrew,[ Charles Pettigrew (1743-1807), a Pennsylvanian who befriended Francis Asbury while serving parishes in North Carolina. He was elected bishop of the diocese c North Carolina. (Jacob S. Payton.)] North Carolina; Dr. Magaw,[ Samuel Magaw (1759-1812), rector of Protestant Episcopal Church in Dovei Delaware, and of St. Paul's Church, Philadelphia. For help given Asbury see Hallmal History of Asbury Church, 116. (Jacob S. Payton.)] Philadelphia; and Mogden [This name "Mogden," evidently Mr. Ogden, the Rev. Uzel Ogden. (See Th Methodist Magazine, IV (1822), 424.) (Jacob S. Payton.)] in East Jersey.

You have heard of the divisions about that improper question proposec at the Deer Creek Conference[Deer Creek Conference, Maryland. The issue of the ordinances was getting mo;serious. Settled at Christmas Conference, 1784. American preachers were allowed 1 administer them.]: "What shall be done about the ordinances" You know we stood foot by foot to oppose it. I cannot tell you what I suffered in this affair. However, God has brought good out of evil, and it has so cured them, that I think there will never be anything formid- able in that way again. I hope if any preachers are to come over here at any future day you will be one. I admire the simplicity of our preachers

I do not think there has appeared another such a company of young devoted men. The Gospel has taken a universal spread. You have heard what great things God has done in the Peninsula, since about these eighteen months that I thought it most prudent to stay at Delaware. And an exceeding great work we have had there, and on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. So that my labors were not in vain.

Since I have been ranging through Virginia, toward the Alleghany, and Maryland, Pennsylvania and East and West Jerseys, and the Peninsula, I enjoy more health than I have for twenty years back. I travel 4,000 miles in a year, all weathers, among rich and poor, Dutch and English. 0 my dear Shadford, it would take a month to write out and speak what I want you to know. The most momentous is my constant communion with God as my God; my GLORIOUS victory over the world and the devil. I am continually with God. I preach frequently, and with more enlargement of heart than ever.

O America! America! it certainly will be the glory of the world for religion! I have loved, and do love America. I think it became necessary after the fall that Government should lose it. Your old national pride, as a people, has got a blow. You must abate a little. 0 let us haste in peace and love, where we shall know, love, and enjoy God and each other, and all the differences in Church and State, and among private Christians, will be done away.

F. Asbury

Abel Slovens, History of the Methodist Episcopal Church, //, 126-28. Stevens' note:

"This letter was sent to America by Rev. Joseph Entwistle, of the Wesleyan Conference, and published in a periodical, the name of which has escaped my memory,"

The conflicts in America between the Calvinist and the Arminian points of view are brought out here. Asbury was having his troubles with the preaching in other churches. He is pointing out to Wesley how necessary the ordinances are and how preachers are needed to administer them.

WEST JERSEY September 20, 1783 [To John Wesley}

Rev, and very dear Friend:

Since I wrote to you from [New] York,[ Before the War of American Independence, Wesley's chief correspondent in the American colonies was Thomas Rankin. On April 5, 1783, Asbury "heard the news that peace was confirmed." The report was premature. There began a new era of British-American Methodist co-operation; but now Francis Asbury was the correspondent-in-chief, and the colonies soon became the United States. Asbury asked] I have been travelling through various parts of West Jersey. We have within these three years past made large strides in East and West Jersey. In the most public, and some of the extreme parts, a few hundreds have joined us, of different denominations. We are much beset with a mixed people, warm for their own peculiarities in doctrines and forms. I could not have thought that Reformed churches had so much policy, and stubborn prejudices. No means are left untried to prevent us; but we know and feel that God is with us. I fear the prospects of peace and prosperity unnerve our zeal for God. There appeared to be a more visible work of God in the Jerseys, last year, than there is this; though I hope believers are in some measure faithful. It is a time of general sickness and mortality in most parts near the water.

I heard yesterday of the death of a man, who twenty years ago was a Baptist preacher. By something wrong in his conduct he was silenced, and backslided from God; yet retained his Calvinian principles, and disputed continually with our preachers and people. Last spring he died, recanted his opinions, and desired it might be written; but the people around him would not do it. He confessed it was his resting upon, and disputing about his notions, that prevented his seeking, and obtaining the restoring grace of God. I was told the Baptist minister refused to preach his funeral sermon, because he died a heretick to their faith.

I see clearly that the Calvinists on one hand, and the Universalians on the other, very much retard the work of God, especially in Pennsylvania and the Jerseys, for they both appear to keep people from seeking heart religion. Maryland does not abound with Calvinism; but in Virginia, ' North and South Carolina, and Georgia, the Baptists labour to stand by ' what they think is the good old cause. I think you ought always to keep '. the front of the Arminian Magazine [The Arminian Magazine: consisting of Extracts and Original Treatises on Universal Redemption, a monthly magazine first appearing in 1778. As its title implied, it was in origin a theological weapon, directed chiefly against such Calvinist periodicals as The Spiritual Magazine and The Gospel Magazine (of which Augustus Toplady was editor). Although the Methodist emphasis on universal salvation continued to be stressed, the scope of the magazine was gradually (and wisely) broadened. In actual fact "future generations" still read this work, not (as Asbury anticipated) for the light it throws on theology, but on historical figures such as Asbury himself. (Frank Baker.) ]filled with the best pieces you can'

Wesley's advice on the new situation, but at the same time made it clear that it was not ( possible to take up just where things had been left off before the war. Already before ' the receipt of this letter Wesley was convinced that in Asbury he had a man upon whom his blessing could rest as the leader of American Methodism. Three days earlier he had written to Edward Dromgoole in Virginia: "I am persuaded Bro. Asbury is raised up to preserve Order among you, and to do just what I should do myself, if it pleased God to bring me to America." On October 3 Wesley sent a directive to the American preachers (through Jesse Lee), which contained the phrase, "I do not wish our American brethren to receive any who make any difficulty of receiving Francis Asbury as the General Assistant." This letter would only confirm Wesley's certainty that this was the man he needed, revealing as it does Asbury's charity, his catholicity, his Arminian theology, his tact and shrewd administrative ability, and above all his! glowing spirit of evangelism. The fact that Wesley knew that such a man as Asbury;

was available was undoubtedly a crucial factor in his epochal ordinations the following September. (Frank Baker.) get, both ancient and modern, against Calvinism: they may be read by future generations.

Is Methodism intended for the benefit of all denominations of reformed Christians Can a Quaker, as well as a member of any other church, be in Society, and hold his outward peculiarities, without being forced to receive the ordinances It is well known that all dissenters, when any of their members join us, turn them out. This is done out of policy, to get them from us altogether; but they will be tired of this, when they suffer by it.

I reverence the ordinances of God; and attend them when I have opportunity; but I clearly see they have been made the tools of division and separation for these three last centuries. We have joined with us at this time, those that have been Presbyterians, Dutch, and English, Lutherans, Mennonites, low Dutch, and Baptists. If we preach up ordinances to these people, we should add, "if they are to be had, and if not, there can be no guilt." If we do any other way, we shall drive them back to their old churches that have disowned them; and who will do all they can to separate them from us.

The friendly clergy are located and do but little for us. If young men of our connection should get ordained, it will not do well. No person can manage the lay preachers here so well, it is thought, as one that has been at the raising of the most of them. No man can make a proper change upon paper, to send one here, and another without knowing the circuits and the gifts of all the preachers, unless he is always out among them.

My dear sir, a matter of the greatest consequence now lies before you:If you send preachers to America, let them be proper persons.[ Wesley's concern for the intake of suitable preachers from the Old Country had already been shown in his letter of October 3, 1783, to Asbury. He could not have received Asbury's letter in so short a time.] We are

BRISTOL

October 3, 1783

Dear Brother,

1. Let all of you be determined to abide by the Methodist doctrine and discipline published in the four volumes of Sermons and the Notes upon the New Testament, together with the Large Minutes of the Conference.

2. Beware of preachers coming from Great Britain or Ireland without a full recommendation from me. Three of our travelling preachers have eagerly desired to go to America; but I could not approve of it by any means, because I am not satisfied that they thoroughly like either our discipline or our doctrine. I think they differ from our judgment in one or both. Therefore, if these or any other come without my recommendation, take care how you receive them.

3. Neither should you receive any preachers, however recommended, who will not be subject to the American Conference and cheerfully conform to the Minutes both of the American and English Conferences.

4. I do not wish our American brethren to receive any who make any difficulty of receiving Francis Asbury as the General Assistant. Undoubtedly the greatest danger to the work of God in America is like to arise either from preachers coming from Europe,

now united; all things go on well, considering the storms, and difficulties we have had to ride through. I wish men of the greatest understanding would write impartial accounts; for it would be better for us not to have preachers, than to be divided. This I know, great men that can do good, may do hurt if they should take the wrong road. I have laboured and suffered much to keep the people and preachers together: and if I am thought worthy to keep my place, I should be willing to labour and suffer till death for peace and union.

If I should be spared, I purpose to write from Baltimore; and then I will send you a parcel of letters and papers, that you may see how that division arose, spread, and was healed. Please to write, and tell me your mind with great freedom; if your confidence is the same with respect to me as it formerly has been.

I am, as ever, yours in Christ,

F.A.

Drew University Library

Here is an account of Asbury's labors in a section of America which he visited repeatedly. There had been a great revival here on the Brunswick Circuit in 1775-76 under the preaching of George Shad ford. The Brunswick Circuit included most of this territory in North Carolina. Asbury is anxious for Wesley to come to America. There is great need for preachers.

HALIFAX, NORTH CAROLINA

March 20, 1784

[To John Wesley}

Reverend Sir:

My last letter was from Edenton [North Carolina] in answer to one I had the pleasure of receiving from you. From that place I came to Bertie Circuit, which lies between Chowan and Roan-Oak-Rivers. There is not now such a prospect of religion as we saw in the beginning; but yet I trust there are some who continue faithful, while a few more are added to the societies.

or from such as will arise from among yourselves speaking perverse things, or bring- ing in among you new doctrines, particularly Calvinism. You should guard against this with all possible care; for it is far easier to keep them out than to thrust them out. I commend you all to the grace of God; and am

Your affectionate friend and brother,

John Wesley

The Letters of John Wesley, VII, 191

March 20, 1784

My next remove was to Brunswick, the oldest and best circuit in Virginia. Many faithful people joined us at our first coming here; having been convinced by the powerful preaching of our worthy friend Mr. Jarratt.[ Devereux Jarratt, the Established Church preacher, great friend of the early Methodist preachers.] I found the labours of those two men of God, James O'Kelly, and Joseph Cromwell, had been blest to the awakening and conversion of souls.

I next came to Mecklenburgh, [Virginia]; but the deep snow, and severe frosts prevented the people from attending. However, I was enabled to pursue my journey, and under the necessity of so doing, as my appointments were all made out long before. From thence I came to Halifax; [This is Halifax County in Virginia as Asbury was between the Dan and Staunton Rivers. However, he had come through Halifax, North Carolina, and returned to North Carolina. The Halifax, North Carolina, Circuit first appears in 1784. The two areas seem to be confused here.] a Circuit newly formed. It lies between Dan and Staunton Rivers, which together form the great River Roan-Oak. Here some have been brought to God; a few Presbyterians and Baptists lifted out of the Calvinian and Antinomian quicksands.

From thence J came to Caswell, in North Carolina. Here are a few souls who love God: and as it is in part a new-formed Circuit, there may be much good done. From Caswell I came to the Guilford Circuit, which lies up, and on both sides the Dan River. Here we had some revival of religion, and an ingathering of souls. The land is good, and may come to something great in time. But the present preachers suffer much; being often obliged to dwell in dirty cabins, to sleep in poor beds, and for retirement, to go into woods, but we must suffer with, if we labour/or the poor. One thing may be said in their favour, they have very few Negroes [slaves], and they put their children early to work. I would have gone to the Yadkin River, but was prevented by an inflammation in my foot. However, in about a fortnight I was able to travel again.

I have formed a plan for the next year (if the Lord spares me) to stretch along to Salisbury, Pee-Dee, Santee, Charles-Town in South, and Wil- mington in North Carolina. We expect the South will give up largely. I came to a place called New Hope [North Carolina], which I found to be a place of very small hope. From thence I went to Tar River, and spent eight days there very comfortably. The congregations were large. Some have found the Lord; and others are groaning for redemption. I am now in Roan-Oak-Circuit. The people here are much in the spirit of moving, to the new lands in Georgia. There are a few faithful souls among them but nothing great.

Dear sir, we are greatly in need of help. A minister, and such preachers as you can fully recommend, will be very acceptable; without your recommendation we shall receive none. But nothing is so pleasing to me, sir, as the thought of seeing you [In 1769, the year when the first preachers were sent to America from the English Conference, Wesley had written: "It is not yet determined whether I should go to America or not. I have been importuned some time; but nil satfirmi video ('I see nothing sufficiently strong'). I must have a clear call before I am at liberty to leave Europe." The matter had frequently been on his mind since that time. In his Journal for September 30, 1784, however, he tells how a returned preacher, John McGeary, "vehemently importuned me to pay one more visit to America before I die," to which Wesley replied, "Nay, I shall pay no more visits to new worlds, till I go to the world of spirits." (Frank Baker.)] here: which is the ardent desire of thousands more in America.

As to myself, I can say, the Lord gives, and wonderfully preserves my natural and spiritual health. My soul is daily fed: and I find abundant sweetness in God. Sometimes I am ready to say, he hath purified my heart;but then again I feel and fear. Upon the whole I hope I am more spiritual than ever I have been in time past. I see the necessity of preaching a full and present salvation[Asbury here and elsewhere echoes the advice so dear to Wesley about preaching full salvation, or as it is variously termed, Christian perfection, perfect love, or holiness, To Wesley this doctrine was "the grand depositum which God has lodged with the people called Methodists; and for the sake of propagating this chief he appears to have raised us up." (Frank Baker.) ] from all sin. Whenever I do this, I feel myself, and so do also my hearers. I find it is good to use frequent fervent prayer;without which a man cannot continue qualified to preach the Gospel. You know, Sir, it is not easy to rule: nor am I pleased with it. I bear it as my cross; yet it seems that a necessity is laid upon me. 0 pray for me that I may be filled with light and power; with zeal and prudence; and above all, with humility and in a single eye. In so doing you will greatly oblige,

Your dutiful son in the Gospel,

Francis Asbury

The Arminian Magazine, IX (1786), 680-S2. Transcribed by Frank Baker

The reader is amazed to hear that Asbury had not heard from his parents in seven years. However, it is necessary to remember that the Revolutionary War had been on and that all communications had been stopped. One can more nearly imagine some of the loneliness of heart which was Asbury's daily lot. He brings his parents up to date in this letter describing the responsibilities which are his. It is interesting to note that, in giving his reasons for being a bachelor, he refers to his affair in England, evidently with Nancy Brookes. It is evident here that he had come to the place where his life was to be dedicated to America.

PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, MARYLAND

June 7, 1784

[To his Parents}

My dear Parents:

It gave me some comfort to hear of you, by the kind and friendly hand of Mr. Boon, the first direct account I have received from you these seven

years. My anxiety of mind would have been great for this; and my seeming disobedient absence, was I not sensible of superior obligations to my Heavenly Father, and reconciled God; to whom I go under all my exercises. I am perfectly happy in the circumstances I am under; believing the hand of the Lord has been signally displayed, in bringing me to and preserving me in America. I find the judgment of our Revd. Friend and Father, in God, Mr. Wesley, heartily concurs in my continuing here at present. What obligations are we under to that wonderful man of God! Oh how has my native land, and church, been favoured with a burning and shining light. What would thousands give, or do, could they but get him here. The esteem and influence I have among the preachers I owe much to him. We have upwards of eighty travelling preachers and near 15,000 members in society. Was I to leave America now, it would be against my own conviction that it is my duty to stay: and in this agrees the judgment of my best friends, on both sides the water.

You want to see me, I make no doubt, as I do you. My constitution is now remarkably seasoned to the country. I enjoy an uncommon share of health, under much labour of body and mind. I trust, my dear parents, you have not wanted yet. In my travels I visit the parents of preachers, and think so will others do to mine.

I sent a bill to Mr. Sause [Richard Sause was the first person to board Wesley's missionaries in America. In 1772 he traveled with Asbury. (John Lednum, A History of the Rise of Methodismin America, 37, 38.)] of five pounds sterling, a few days ago. You should have received eleven guineas last fall, by the same hand. You should be more particular in writing to me about these temporal matters. It is true you may be both disabled for labour, and may need a larger supply than I have given, or shall give; but we must trust Providence. Some say, was I to be paid according to my labour, my salary would be great. I can tell you how it has been with me from the first entering into the Connexion. I had to provide myself with necessary clothing and books. When I came to America, the first four or five years of my being here, money was plenty. With what I received more than bought me clothing, (and I have been moderate in dress), I bought books. During the time of our late troubles, I sold my books, partly through want. My allowance from Conference is twenty four pounds currency, equal to twelve pounds sterling, (or a little more, about $60) with my travelling expenses paid. I am concerned in the selling off the remains of Mr. Wesley's and Williams'[Robert Williams was called the first Methodist preacher in Virginia. He had been selling books. (See above. Note 22.) Preachers may have been in northern Virginia before.] books. This puts money into my hands; but I know not that I can call my one coat and waistcoat, and half a dozen shirts, two horses, and a few books, my own, if the debts were paid. 'Tis true if I were to marry a wife with a fortune, or was less liberal, I might have more money. Many things have inclined me to continue as yet in a single state. One, what once befell me in England.[ See reference to Nancy Brookes in letter of October 26, 1768.] Another, my parents,-That if providence should open the way for me to come to you I may have no impediment; and that what I can save may go for your supply. Besides, my circuit is so large, not less than 700 miles in length yearly, and in circumference I know not what.

I have thought much of your coming to me, when I found I could not come to you; but here I view great difficulties. If you were to come here, you must sell all you are worth to pay the fare, to come comfortably. Where I should procure you a house and necessaries I know not. I have one friend, a great man, who would, maybe employ my father, in the way he would choose, but it is too much like Hampstead Hall.[ Joseph Asbury had been employed at the English estate Hampstead Hall. Reference is probably to Mr. Gough of Perry Hall, Maryland.] In short, I have a spirit that cannot easily bend to be dependent on any one man. I know how changeable human nature is, and how subject we are to lose the grace of God. I might add the difficulties of the sea. The climate and country might shorten your days. It would bring additional trouble on me that have enough already for my poor heart and weak head. But be assured I shall send you a supply. It might be larger; but I pass so many needy thousands in a year.

My dear Mother, live to God; press after holiness of heart; be much in prayer to the Lord. You think, "could I see my child again, I should be happy, and die in peace." Yes, if I could stay with you; but how painful to part. I am under some thought that America will be my country for life. If I ever had any ambition to be great, it is somewhat cooled; a less publick station would be more acceptable to me. A man may be suspected of pride and folly if he wants to rule. Upon the whole, I have reason to praise God, who has kept me from publickly dishonouring him, His cause, the Connexion I am in, and the calling I am of; and to enjoy more of His power and love to my soul, that I am not puffed up nor fallen into the condemnation of the devil. What great reason I have to praise God for what is done, in, for, and by me; that a life of labour and suffering is my paradise, while love divine, transporting love, daily fills my heart.

There is one thing that to me savors of human pride; and vanity, and expense (that is, to have my picture drawn) which I will have done if it would give you any satisfaction to send it to you; if it will remind you of me, and stir you up to pray that God may keep me; for there certainly never was a man of smaller abilities raised so high. I shall not wonder if some well meaning men should fear for me, this I do for myself. I have reason to bless God who hath made me, and doth make me, a center of union among preachers, and the people; and that he hath given me the hearts of both so much. But the Sons of Zurmiah [See II Samuel 3:39.] will always show them- selves, whether thro' weakness or wickedness. Our last year's conferences have been attended with great love and power and union; religion revives in the North and South of this continent.

My dear Father, cry to God for grace to conquer sin. Take abundantly more care of your soul than your body. I pray for, think of, Oh that I could weep over, you more. May God restore you to his favour, and image and glory. Live in love together; ripen fast for glory; that there I may see and rejoice with you forever. If you desire my picture send the word in your next.

I am as ever, your loving, tho' unworthy, Son,

F. Asbury

Drew University Library

A Letter of John Wesley

This letter of John Wesley to "Our Brethren in America" is an important link in the chain of letters as it gives authorization for the ordination of the Methodist preachers in America.

BRISTOL September 10, 1784

[To "Our Brethren in America"] [A part of this letter was left out in the Minutes of 1784 and 1785. It was published in full in the British Minutes of 1785, in Whitehead's Life of Wesley, and in Drew's Life of Dr. Coke, and is the same in all. The part left out begins, "And I have prepared a Liturgy, little differing from that of the Church of England (I think the best constituted national church in the world) which I advise all the travelling preachers to use on the Lord's day, in all the congregations, reading the Litany only on Wednesdays and Fridays, and praying extempore on all other days. I also advise the elders to administer the supper of the Lord on the Lord's day." It is clear that those who were in authority in that day did not favor the recommendation of Wesley in reference to the liturgy. (For a discussion of this matter see M'Caine's Letters, 83-85.)]

1. By a very uncommon train of providences many of the Provinces

of North America are totally disjoined from their Mother Country and erected into independent States. The English Government has no authority over them, either civil or ecclesiastical, any more than over the States of Holland. A civil authority is exercised over them, partly by the Congress,

partly by the Provincial Assemblies. But no one either exercises or claims any ecclesiastical authority at all. In this peculiar situation some thousands of the inhabitants of these States desire my advice; and in compliance with their desire I have drawn up a little sketch.

2. Lord King's Account of the Primitive Church convinced me many years ago that bishops and presbyters are the same order, and consequently have the same right to ordain. For many years I have been importuned from time to time to exercise this right by ordaining part of our travelling preachers. But I have still refused, not only for peace sake, but because I was determined as little as possible to violate the established order of the National Church to which I belonged.

3. But the case is widely different between England and North America. Here there are bishops who have a legal jurisdiction: in America there are none, neither any parish ministers. So that for some hundred miles together there is none either to baptize or to administer the Lord's supper. Here, therefore, my scruples are at an end; and I conceive myself at full liberty, as I violate no order and invade no man's right by appointing and sending labourers into the harvest.

4. I have accordingly appointed Dr. Coke and Mr. Francis Asbury to be Joint Superintendents over our brethren in North America; as also Richard Whatcoat and Thomas Vasey to act as elders among them, by baptizing and administering the Lord's Supper. And I have prepared a Liturgy [Since the tendency in America was to drift farther away from the Episcopal Church, it became the natural thing to reject liturgical practices. Wesley published two editions, those of 1784 and 1786; but they were little used. (See Rare Book Collection, Library of Congress.)] little differing from that of the Church of England (I think, the best constituted National Church in the world), which I advise all the travelling preachers to use on the Lord's Day in all the congregations, reading the Litany only on Wednesdays and Fridays and praying extempore on all other days. I also advise the elders to administer the Supper of the Lord on every Lord's Day.

5. If any one will point out a more rational and scriptural way of feeding and guiding those poor sheep in the wilderness, I will gladly embrace it. At present I cannot see any better method than that I have taken.

6. It has, indeed, been proposed to desire the English bishops to ordain part of our preachers for America. But to this I object: (1) I desired the Bishop of London to ordain only one, but could not prevail. (2) If they consented, we know the slowness of their proceedings; but the matter admits of no delay. (3) If they would ordain them now, they would like- wise expect to govern them. And how grievously would this entangle us! (4) As our American brethren are now totally disentangled both from the State and from the English hierarchy, we dare not entangle them again | either with the one or the other. They are now at full liberty simply to follow the Scriptures and the Primitive Church. And we judge it best that they should stand fast in that liberty wherewith God has so strangely made them free.

John Wesley

John Telford, The Letters of the Rev. John Wesley, VII, 237-39

This letter was dated December 6 but without a year. However, it was written shortly after the arrival of Coke and Whatcoat, who landed at New York on November 3, 1784. On the bottom of the letter, it was written by another that the letter was written after the ordination. However, Asbury was ordained at the Christmas Conference.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

December 6, [1784]

[To his Parents]

My dear Father and Mother:

I write a few lines to let you know I am in health. My soul more than ever waits for God, and is filled with zeal for his glory. I have seen the lightening down of the power of the Lord and expect to see greater things yet. I was thankful to God that I heard of your welfare by Brother Whatcoat [Richard Whatcoat, later bishop.] who is safe arrived to help us. I was made joyful above measure at the arrival of our British Brethren. We are greatly rejoiced that if we are not worthy to have Mr. Wesley, (whom our Preachers and people venerate if possible, more than the Europeans,) we are favoured with the man of his right hand, Dear Dr. Coke,-if only for a few months. I hope you cleave to God wholly, and are in great earnest about your souls. Oh may you ripen fast for glory! This is the wish and daily prayers of your unworthy son, and souls real friend,

F. Asbury

P.S. I hope to send a little supply about Christmas, in an order to Mr. Atlay, London. Hearing it is matter of grief to you for me to write to others and not to you I shall write often and short.

Drew University Library