Chapter 6

BETWEEN THE GENERAL CONFERENCES OF 1796 AND 1800

November 11, 1796 May 9, 1800

The General Conference of 1796 had been held in Baltimore. Asbury had been entertained by the Reeds. Now he is writing back to them with an appended letter to the society. He was traveling through Virginia and had stopped at two taverns on the way. Bishop Coke was along, and they had rested with the Parrot family in Richmond. He wrote this letter at the Walthall's near Chesterfield Courthouse, just outside of Richmond, across the James River.

CHESTERFIELD, VIRGINIA

November 11, 1796

To Nelson Reed[Pastor in Baltimore.]

My very dear Brother:

I am under great obligations to you and my dear Sister Reed for every expression of love and service to make life comfortable, whilst under your roof. We have rode near 200 miles since we made our departure from Baltimore, two nights lodging in taverns,[ Todd's and Ellis' taverns between Fredericksburg and Richmond.] well entertained for our money. I have travelled with a sore boil on my cheek. I have contemplated my case to look forward for 4 years to have to ride 6000 miles a year. I thought I would not suffer myself to pass another General Conference and be left so, yet here I am in the same circumstances as before. I am flattered but not released. I shall be obliged, if you will read the following lines to the society in my name.

"Dearly Beloved in the Lord, the stationed and local ministry, leaders, and members of the Society in Baltimore."

"My being absent from or present with you cannot alter my affection for, care over, or love to you. I hope what I am about to write is from God, and for your good. The Sacramental and Love Feast Communion you hold together, in my humble opinion, is not sufficient. Your classical fellowship is very local. It is impressed upon my mind that the want of prayer bands is somewhat supplied in the men's and women's classes. I most devoutly wish and desire that if not once in a week yet once in two weeks the whole body of the society should meet alone, as the church of God to participate in each others joys, and sorrows, trials, consolations, cares, fears and decisions, hopes, wishes and feelings, that you may speak, and pray, and sing together. I humbly hope it will be rendered a special blessing. It will be needful to give tickets to all the society; who should be admitted at the side doors of the church or meeting house. The Lord is returned to his place, when he will visit us again we know not.

"Let us exhort one another, and use every means. I judge it will be highly necessary for the leading members to meet once in 2 weeks for the temporal interests, and once in 2 weeks for spiritual purposes, and the improvement of their own souls. What I have recommended is a part of old Methodism, as it is practiced at New York and was kept up by the societies in London. It will be much for the advantage of the society to bring all the gifts into the storehouse that there may be meat in the Lord's house that if any good is communicated to any soul the whole may have the benefit."

I am as ever your faithful friend and brother,

F. Asbury

Drew University Library

On November 17 Asbury was evidently at the house of Brother Barr in Greensville County, Virginia. Here the Virginia Conference had been in session. John Dickinson, a layman of Wilmington, Delaware, had been a benefactor of Cokesbury College. Of principal interest in this letter are the references to the Chartered Fund.

GREENSVILLE COUNTY, VIRGINIA

November 17, 1796

To John Dickinson

Dear respected Sir:

After a diligent search for the writings respecting the ground which you were so very kind as to bestow upon our Connection, they are not to be found. We must, therefore, cast ourselves upon your candor and goodness and entreat favor of you to renew the grant.

Our General Conference lately held in Baltimore agreed, from the hints given them by many of their principal friends to establish a fund for the support of our traveling preachers, among the mountains and in the Western Territories, and to supply the wants of our superannuated preachers and the widows and orphans of preachers. We have appointed several of our most respectable friends in Philadelphia, trustees of this fund viz, Messrs. Jacob Baker,[ Baker was a prominent Methodist layman of Philadelphia. He was a wholesale dry-goods merchant, and he and his wife joined St. George's Church in 1773. He was a member of the second board of trustees of the church. In 1801 he was one of those who went out to organize the Union Church. He was president of the Chartered Fund. He was converted under Joseph Pilmoor and died in 1820. (See Pioneering in Pern's Woods, Philadelphia Conference Tract Society, 184.) (Jacob S. Payton.)] Haskins, North,[ North first appears in Methodist history as a resident of Chester County, Pennsylvania. He had a distinguished record in the Revolutionary War and was later given a responsible post in Philadelphia. He, with Thomas Haskins (then also a resident of Philadelphia), now a merchant, formerly a preacher, and others created the Chartered Fund. North's services to Methodism were considerable. (Jacob S. Payton.)] etc. and prefer the State of Pennsylvania for the chartering of the fund. Several thousand dollars have been already subscribed and as the former deed which you were so kind as to execute is lost, we are persuaded, that there is no charity in our Connexion to which the land can be granted, so important or so secure as the above described. The principal of all the subscriptions, grants, legacies, etc. is never to be touched. The interest is to be at the disposal of our yearly conferences, under such regulations as shall be made from time to time, at the four years General Conference.

We therefore. Sir, do entreat the favor of you to execute another deed instead of that which is lost, and if you be pleased to convey the land to Jacob Baker, Thomas Haskins and Caleb North, merchants in Philadelphia, as mediate persons, they will secure it to the Chartered Fund, without giving you further trouble. But we shall write to them immediately that they may make themselves known to you, that everything may be settled according to your superior judgment. We give you a great deal of trouble in this business but we know you will pardon us.

We subscribe ourselves, with great respect, dear respected Sir, Your much obliged and very humble servants,

Thomas Coke

Francis Asbury

P.S. We send you this letter by our much respected brother, Jesse Lee, one of our Presiding Elders. Dr. Coke intended doing himself the honor of paying a visit to Mr. Dickinson[In the report of the Chartered Fund, July 1, 1823, there is a list of contributors. Among these is "John Dickinson/Esq., Delaware, a plantation, for which was received (1460.62." This is the second largest amount contributed.] this winter, but letters lately received from England, prevent his enjoying that happiness. However, he intends to return to America in about a twelve month's time and shall be highly grateful if Providence then indulges him with this pleasure. His respects wait on Mr. Dickinson.

Historical Society of Pennsylvania

There are only a few of the Asbury letters that cannot be dated definitely upon internal evidence or otherwise. This is one that cannot. However, the name Thorne provides the cue. She was a noted woman class leader and was both a Pennsylvanian and a North Carolinian. She had also been familiar with Charleston, South Carolina, as she had been originally a convert of the Rev. Oliver Hart, a Baptist preacher, who led her to Christ in North Carolina. He later lived in Charleston, South Carolina. She lost her husband and later married Captain Parker, a sea captain, and moved to England.

NEWBERN, N.C.[ There is no date or place on this letter. It could have been written from Newbem, North Carolina, and in December, 1796. Coke was with Asbury. He would likely have been reminded of Mrs. Thome there because she had lived there.]

December 17, 1796}

[To Mrs. Parker] [Mrs. Mary Thorne, the first woman class leader in Philadelphia, was appointed by Joseph Pilmoor. She was born in Bristol, Pennsylvania; but her family, named Evans, soon moved to Newbem, North Carolina. She married a Mr. Thome and became a member of the Baptist Church. Her husband died; and she went to her parents in Philadelphia, where she became a teacher. She came under the influence of Joseph Pilmoor's preaching and joined the Methodists. However, for some time she continued in fellowship with the Baptists. After a while, along with nine others she was expelled from the Baptist Church for fellowshiping with the Methodists. She was forsaken by her family. She became Mrs. Parker and moved to England in 1778. She was a loyal Methodist and was greatly appreciated by John Wesley. Her husband lost several ships, and they became quite poor. However, she retained her great faith. (See Atkinson, The Beginnings of the Wesleyan Movement in America, 208-21, and Lednum, Rise of Methodism, 42-44.)]

My dear Sister:

It is possible that you have so far forgotten your own country and your Father's House. Long have I wished, oft have I sighed (about the sister Thorne but no account, so have you changed your name and former friends and country where). Surely you sometimes think how often we have sat and talked together at your own house and the houses of others, about the precious things of God. In per conversation last evening, the Doctor [Bishop Coke.] gave me the most perfect information of your state. Your friends have thought strange indeed you never wrote. I do most earnestly desire you will send me a letter every year as long as you and myself live. You know I have faithfully and frequently lent you my feeble hand in tenderness and love to pluck you out of the low dungeon when your soul has been covered with an awful gloom.

You are become a joyful mother of children. Oh, let not these dear little creatures draw your heart from God. Remember pious Watts "The fondness of a creature's love, how strong it strikes the sense" and so on.

Oh my dear sister what poison lies rapt up in every sweet connection of life; once you thought so, but now you painfully feel it. I desire you would write me all your heart that when I know your case, though at this distance, I may give you some advice and --- my pastoral charge. The prospect of religion, the glory of Zion, and the increase of the sons and daughters, the opening we have in your native soil, the building a church in Charleston and the joyning some thousands, in that state. Doctor Coke who is the missionary of the churches will inform you. I have been rather sharp in my present letter but unless you write me with great freedom and acknowledge your fault in neglecting me and your American friends may be I shall be more severe.

I shall be pleased to represent you to your old friends, as being as ever and more than ever given up to God. I charge you before God be much in prayer, spend when able not less than an hour in the morning and the same in the evening in solemn private meditation and prayer with God every day and step aside at noon to speak with God if you can. Seek perfect love, seek it now. Brother and Sister Baker [Jacob Baker. (See note to letter written November 17, 1776, to John Dickinson.)] and Wilmer[Lambert Wilmer and his wife were charter members of the first Methodist church in Philadelphia. He was an officer in the militia in the Revolution, and he and his wife became class leaders in St. George's Church. (See Pioneering in Penn's Woods, Philadelphia Conference Tract Society, 183.) (Jacob S. Payton.)] yet alive. Sister Patterson went from home a few weeks past into the unseen world. There I expect to see you. It appears providence has given me your country and strangely united my heart to the country and people so it is with you in respect to my country. I am with affectionate regards as ever yours,

F. Asbury

Historical Society of Pennsylvania

This letter shows some of the pressure Asbury put on Coke to stay in America. Coke and Asbury were beloved friends. However, Asbury had given up everything to become an American, and Coke was definitely an English Mon. His first loyalties were to his native land. On the other hand, Asbury never offered to turn over the episcopal functions to Coke and Coke felt it. Asbury records in the Journal on February 8, "Tomorrow my dear Coke sails for Europe."

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

February 8, 1797

[To Bishop Coke]

My very dear friend. Dr. Coke:

When I consider the solemn offer[Coke pledged himself at the Baltimore General Conference, October 27, 1796. (See Coke's letter, p. 146, n. 76.) Coke was on the way to England now. He embarked on an American ship on February 6 and was to sail on February 10.] you made of yourself to the General Conference, and their free and deliberate acceptance of you as their Episcopos, I must view you as most assuredly bound to this branch of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States of America. You cannot, you dare not but consider yourself as a servant of the church, and a citizen of the continent of America. And although you may be called to Europe,} to fulfil some prior engagements, and wind up your temporal affairs, ' nothing ought to prevent your hasty return to the continent, to live and ' die in America. I shall look upon you as violating your most solemn obligations, if you delay your return.

If you are a man of a large mind, you will give up a few islands for a vast continent, not less than 1400 miles in length, and 1000 miles in breadth. We have sixteen United States for ingress and regress, rising not like little settlements, but like large nations and kingdoms. I conclude, that I consider you are no longer a citizen of Wales or England, but of the United States of America. I am, with great respect,

Your ever dear brother,

Francis Asbury

P.S. I give you this to remind you, lest you should forget what you have done, and what the General Conference expects from you.

Samuel Drew, The Pioneer Bishop, viii-ix

George Roberts was for years one of the most frequent correspondents of Asbury. Asbury was in Charleston as usual in the winter months. He was greatly disturbed and distressed by the death of a dear friend. Brother Wells. He had been working on the discipline, and this letter tells of that. He makes reference in this letter to the parting with Coke. In the Journal on February 10 he says, "This day Dr. Coke is waiting to sail for Ireland. Strangers to the delicacies of Christian friendship know little or nothing of the pain of parting." The date on the letter has been torn out; but as Asbury makes reference to Coke on February 10 and says he was writing on the next day, then February 11 is the date.

CHARLESTON, S.C.

February 11, 1797

To George Roberts [ Pastor in New York City.]

My very dear George:

I am now answering two letters to one received. Yesterday in the evening, our dear Coke embarked in a Scotch vessel for Ireland. When I left you and Baltimore, that evening, I rode in the night till 8 o'clock, in which I suffered. We came drifting and dusting along, sometimes three, then half a dozen, and a dozen in company. Our route was through Alexandria, Colchester, Dumfries, Fredericksburg, and Richmond and Petersburg. I was pleased to find general harmony. When we read them the decrees of yearly conferences we had great peace.

It seems the temple of war on James[Reference evidently to O'Kelly schism. O'Kelly organized the Republican Methodist Church in Surry County, Virginia. This county borders on the James River.] is shut up. I must needs take my course through Norfolk, Portsmouth, Newbern, Wilmington, Georgetown, and then to this seat. The excessive rides, and cold and night work were preparing me with cold upon cold, as we came 30, 40, and 50 miles per day. We had great peace in the Charleston Conference. News of revivals in both States, Georgia and this. I went out one morning early; as frequently at night. By the death of Brother Wells[See Journal for an account of Brother Wells.] I was called out. 1 felt a kind of dumb stretching ague. At last it set me fast. For 20 days I chiefly kept my room. I never went to bed but one day, when seized with a violent shaking fever and ague, that held me cold and hot for six or seven hours. I knew not if the ague should get into my old system now how it might be. But blessed be God for men and means. I am better. Dr. Coke supplied my lack of service. If it was needful for me to be sick, it could not have been a better time and place. Some defaced.

We have written what will make about 100 printed pages,[ The reference is to the Discipline. (See Minutes, January 19, 1797.)] have bound our work with six or 700 printed scriptures. Our hearts, hands, heads, eyes, Bibles, and concordances have been employed. I hope the work will please, convince, and instruct. We are only sorry we did not ask the General Conference to give us leave to strike out the childish questions, and to lay the text as well as the notes properly together. I view the work of vast importance that hath cost us such application and thought for months and years. Brother James O'Kelly answered a woman who asked the difference between me and him. He gave her the powerful return. "Suppose," said he, "I were to show you the Bible and a form of discipline made by the General Conference, would you not know the difference" For this cause we have abounded in scripture, and when we consider the form is 70 pages, we have not been prolix in the notes. Every explanation must be more than the text. We have guarded against weak arguments, and improper scripture, and against anything harsh and reflecting on others. We have struck out many to us exceptional parts of the tracts. These we did not hold as sacred as the discipline which we did not alter a word. In this we have been peculiarly careful that our notes should not speak a different meaning from the text. I judge it of such consequence that I shall offer the reading not only before the Philadelphia Conference but before every yearly conference in the Union. We have read a part before the Charleston Conference that we had ready.

The Doctor's time was lengthened only to write the last lines leaving out the Tract on Baptism, and the Service, without ordination service, it will be about 300 pages. As to what you say on Discipline it is true as to the church of England or Episcopal Protestants. There are many objections. If they have the doctrine, they do not preach it at all. They are a settled, man made, worldly ministry under no discipline and always have been. 'Tis our traveling plan like the flying camp is the matter: if they do not take the fever and die up! The Maryland ---- suffered much but afterward they weathered the storm.

In about fifteen days I march for Cumberland and Kentucky, shall make a route of nearly 1,000 miles to Baltimore. There you may meet me with

a letter the first of June. I am to take Relief,[ His horse] stiff as he is, 10 years old, my skin and my clothing, and not 3 dollars in my purse. The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof! Brother Nichols did not write. Unless in urgent business, I only act on the defensive, that is, answer the preachers when they write. I am pleased to hear that the house is about at the 2 mile stone; more so to hear that the Africans are about building one; help them all you can. The more houses the more people; and the more preaching, and the more converted.

I met with nothing which so gladdened my hearers in sickness as the seeing a letter from Vanderlip to ---- giving an account of the work at the New Church. I suppose the whole society could meet every week, at the old church[John Street Church] once a fortnight, and the same at the new church.[ Forsythe Street Church.] I must believe this to have been the constant practice of the primitive church. I am perfectly satisfied with the part I took in the General Conference relative to the slaves. It is of great consequence to us to have proper access to the masters and slaves. I had a case, a family I visited more than a year ago, a tyrannical old WelshMon. I saw there he was cruel, his people were wicked, and treated like dogs. "Well," say you, "I would not go near such a man's house." That would be just as the devil would have it. In one year I saw that man much softened, his people admitted into the house of prayer, the whole plantation, 40 or 50 singing and praising God. What now can sweeten the bitter cup like religion The slaves soon see the preachers are their friends, and soften their owners towards them. There are thousands here of slaves who if we could come out to them would embrace religion. It is of vast moment for us to send the news far and wide. It hath its influence,

James King will be on this station. You may write to him. Ann Willis[Widow of Henry Willis, the preacher.] lives where her husband died, or you may direct a letter to Jonathan Jackson, presiding elder, and he will spread the news through the Carolinas and Georgia, be particular.

We have had hundreds brought in through Georgia and South Carolina, and some parts of North Carolina the last year. You can promise me as much as I can you the present. Where do you live Remember I live here as you said to the Mon. How long do you keep in the work, the present moment we can promise. As to the Baltimore burning, after a little shock at first it seems no more to me than as much chaff. If the LORD loves these people he will keep them down. Burning is a lottery, and many make a benefit of the calamity which I suppose is one. I only wish to know who burnt Cokesbury, which I shall ever believe was done wickedly, and I am sure it will come out at the day of Judgment. I have written-circumstantially, I am weak. I suppose you will let the brethren know what they wish to hear of me.

I am as ever thine

Francis Asbury

Methodist Historical Society of the Baltimore Conference (Lovely Lane Museum}

The New York Public Library has two originals of Asbury's letters. This is one of them. The other is addressed on the envelope to Major Van Cortlandt. They are in the Van Cortlandt collection, and some have taken them for letters written to the man who was lieutenant governor of New York State for eighteen years and called "Governor." Asbury paid tributes to him on several occasions. Lieutenant Governor Van Cortlandt resided in the old Manor House on the Croton in New York. He was very rich. He entertained distinguished guests, among them Washington, Lafayette, Franklin, and Whitefield. Whitefield preached there. The Methodist preachers stopped at his house. Pierre Van Cortlandt was the first lieutenant governor of New York. He was president of the convention that adopted the constitution of the state of New York. The "governor" became a Methodist and gave the land for a church and burying ground. He lived to be ninety-three years of age and died on May 1, 1814. Henry Boelim has given an extended account of Van Cortlandt in his Reminiscence. However, this Setter was evidently written to Philip Van Cortlandt, the elder son of "Governor" Van Cortlandt.

-- N.Y.[ The place is not given. Asbury was in New York State, where he had been ill. ]

August 29, 1797

To Philip Van Cortlandt [Philip Van Cortlandt was the elder son of Pierre Van Cortlandt. He lived until 1831. He was in the Revolution and engaged in some of Washington's most hazardous enterprises. He had continuous contacts with the French forces. He became a brigadier general in 1783. He lived at the Manor House at Croton. (Arthur Bruce Moss.)]

My much respected friend:

I have a serious leisure to write to my friends, but mental and body powers are weak. I am greatly obliged to you for the remembrance of me and earnest wish to see me at your mansion.[ The mansion must have fallen to Philip as he was the elder of the two sons.] It is upwards of twelve years since I began the wreck of my constitution, when I became more immediately the superintendent of our community in America. We have been assisted to spread our Gospel from friends, and sometimes through the Western United States, the Northwest Territory, Upper Canada and the other British Provinces. Although we do not number yet, we may calculate upon one hundred thousand that stand in the above named states in friendship and are in some degree of fellowship with us and perhaps ten hundred thousand that are our regular hearers. Thus both the Lord wrought for and by us his ministers and people: if we may even dare to call ourselves so. Many of our preachers have suffered want, hunger labor, lodging, rocks, rivers, mountains, wilderness, preaching in the Southern States, night and day, the people forcing them to their lodgings. Whenever a preacher is in the settlement, the tribes of poor slaves coming in the night, that cannot come in the day, the unhealthy climates: many young men that have seldom wrought in hard labor and tenderly brought up where they have had servants to do the drudgery of the plantations, these have had little life except the clash of arms and company encampments; many of the hardships of the American war that you have known something of; their zeal and indefatigable labors wrecking their slender systems. A rehearsal of the things to Dr. Joseph Ramsey in Charleston astonished him, and that for the poor pittance of $64,[ The preacher's salary.] the half or one third, this made the doctor offer and continue to our ministers his medicine and service gratis.

Of myself I may speak as a fool, if my Journals can pass the press and will satisfy the candid within. I have been laboring or loitering within, I have been resting on beds of roses or suffering night and day, I stand astonished at myself and the goodness of God that I have been kept alive and moving. During my ten months indisposition I have rode upon horseback above two thousand miles in the worst of weather and country south and west and yet after all I am an unprofitable servant. I have not done my duty.

My dear friend I feel a great tenderness for you and your whole family for your distinguished kindness to our people when they were few in member. You are blessed with a goodly mother[Mrs. Van Cortlandt, wife of "Governor" Van Cortlandt, was Joanna Livingston, daughter of Gilbert Livingston. She was a deeply religious person like her husband. Whitefield had preached from the portico of their house to a multitude of friends and tenants of the governor. She was a relative of Freeborn Garrettson's wife. Her husband gave the land for the church at Croton. (Arthur Bruce Moss.)] as I am also. You have a gracious sister[Governor and Mrs. Van Cortlandt had two sons, Philip and Pierre, Jr., and three daughters, Catherine, later widow of Abram Van Wyck, who lived at Croton with her and Mrs. Ann Van Rennsalear, who lived at Albany. The reference here is evidently to Catherine, who lived at Croton with her parents and Philip. (Arthur Bruce Moss.)] whose soul with mine longeth for the salvation of your soul and the soul of your brother. But how hardly shall they that not only have much of this world, but are in connection with the policy and interests of this world.[ 27 Asbury evidently refers to salvation. He shows his deep interest in Philip's soul. ] My dear friend you hear, you feel the gospel, do you pray and strive Early guidance being called, and you are a child of a mother's prayers and tears. Jesus hath bled for you. From a child God hath been at work on your heart. Probably in war and trouble saved, and perhaps you promised God if He would spare you, you would seek Him. When the Methodists[28 Reference to Garrettson, Henry Boehin, and even perhaps to George Whitefield. 29 Joshua Wells was one of three preachers appointed to New York, the others being George Roberts and William Beauchamp. (See Minutes of 1797.)] came along at the first you had perhaps awful and palpable conviction, you could not hide it. You cannot keep away from Methodist preaching, you would feel a great disappointment and from rest to come to hear, you cannot be happy in a worldly enjoyment, you love some of the ministry as your own soul, yea perhaps more than your own soul if yet you do not love God. I should be happy to see you and to see you love Jesus. I have been forbid reading, writing and such exercises. Elder Wells29 that attends me writeth my letters in general, but I would trust none with this, but myself, if even I see you again may it be in Jesus, farewell,

Most affectionately yours

F. Asbury

P.S. Excuse me I am in the country and want paper. With great respect remember me to the family.

New York Public Library

Jesse Lee was one of the founders of American Methodism, being the father of New England Methodism. The New England Conference had been set to be held in Wilbraham on September 19, 1797. Because of his illness Asbury could not go. Lee was appointed to preside over the conference. The letter is most interesting, especially in the light of the letter which Jesse Lee wrote to Asbury on April 10, 1815, and which is printed with these letters. Asbury evidently expected Lee to be elected to the episcopacy. The whole letter does not appear in either Jesse Lee's history or Tigert's constitutional history. The paragraphs printed here are taken from both sources.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

September 12, 1797

To Jesse Lee[Jesse Lee was appointed to travel with Francis Asbury after the conference. He was

presiding elder in New England.]

My very dear Brother:

I am convinced that I ought not to attempt to come to the Conference at Wilbraham. Riding thirteen miles yesterday threw me into more fever than I have had for a week past. It will be with difficulty I shall get back. I have sent Brother Wells[Joshua Wells, pastor in New York.] who next to Jonathan[This was Jonathan Bird. (See Journal, May 1, 1797.) He was presiding elder on the Holston District, living in Virginia.] has seen much of my continual labor and afflictions for many days and miles. The burden lies on thee; act with a wise and tender hand; specially on the stations. I hope it will force the connection his poor health to do something and turn their attention for one to assist or substitute me. I cannot express the distress I have had in all my afflictions for the state of the connection. We say the Lord will provide. True, but we must look out for men and means. The Lord could have provided without such a poor, worthless creature as I am crossing the Atlantic. You and every man that thinks properly, will find it will never do to divide the North from the South. Methodism is Union all over; Union in exchange of preachers; Union and exchange of sentiment; Union and exchange of interests; we must draw resources from center to circumference.

There must have been at this time, growing out of the O'Kelly schism, some talk of dividing the Church on sectional lines. The bishop was, as indicated in the letter, in great distress, both in mind and body. Again, in the same letter, he says to Mr. Lee: Your brethren in Virginia wish you to come forth. I think the most general and impartial election may take place in the yearly Conferences; every one may vote, and in General Conference, perhaps, one-fifth or one-sixth part would be absent. I wish you to come, and keep as close to me and my direction as you can. I wish you to go, after the Conference soon to meet in New York, to Georgia, Holston, and Kentucky, and perhaps come to Baltimore in June, if the ordination [To the episcopacy.] should take place, and so come on to the Eastern Conference.

Francis Asbury [Tigert and Lee have different copies of this letter. The two have been edited and put together.]

Jesse Lee, A Short History of the Methodists, 481-82

Hardy Brown, a bright and shining light; an Israelite in whom there was no guile; an example of true piety; he had but short notice of his death, suffocated with the quinsey in a few hours; he exhorted his wife and all about him, to serve God; and cheerfully, with a smile on his countenance, left this world of sorrow.

Mary Gregorie, a daughter of sister Glover's, thirteen years of age;

she came to live with me in April and died in October following; seven or eight weeks before she died, she became very serious, and often was much pleased to talk with me about religion; she was powerfully converted on her death-bed, and the Lord opened her mouth to speak and sing his praise. She would beg the sinners to look at her and repent. I believe she had a vision of angels just before she died; she lifted up her eyes and said, "0 you pretty creatures!" and breathed her last in three minutes.

O, my dear brother, while I write and think of the dear saints in glory, how it fills my heart with joy! Oh, the time will shortly come, when these eyes shall weep no more; this heart, which is now the seat of sorrow, shall cease to flutter and beat, and not a wave of trouble roll across my peaceful breast! I hope the Lord will renew your health and strength, that you may live long to water his vineyard. Pray for me, that I may be more holy, and more heavenly minded. Give my love to brother Lee; Mr. Baker and the children join me in sincere love to you.

Your affectionate sister,

I. Baker J.[ Probably should be J.]

Letters to Bishop Asbury from various people. South Carolina Conference Historical Society, Wofford College

The Minutes show that Anthony Sale and James G. Martin were at Norfolk in 1798. They were evidently not the preachers who died there and to whom Asbury makes reference in this letter. In 1798 Alexander M'Caine was on the Washington Circuit in the South Conference. Evidently a large number of Irish people had settled in Norfolk.

NORFOLK, VIRGINIA

March 29, 1799

To Alexander M'Caine [Sometimes spelled McKane-a pastor at Union. "To Alex McKain" is written on letter but not in Asbury's writing. (See letters to M'Caine, July 16, 1806; April 30, 1815; July 1, 1815.) M'Caine later left the church to help form the Methodist Protestant Church.]

My very dear Brother:

I had an impression, upon my knees, that you would be the most acceptable person to take a station in Norfolk, in Virginia, for the present year: when this is delivered by a person to take your place in Union. I hope you will haste, the King's business requireth haste, great haste, for King Jesus. My confidence in you as a man of piety, conscience and honor is hereby signified: I have been served so faithfully by your countrymen.[ The Irish. Early Methodism was indebted to the Irish for much of its leadership. ] I am not afraid to trust those I have had proof of. To reconcile you, find you will not need to preach above 4 or 5 times in 7 days. 2ndly, your accommodations will be good. 3rdly, there is a small revival of religion and the fare of things is pleasing. 4thly, you will be able to keep out of the weather when it is changeable. 5thly, you can write to any part of the world,[ This indicates how difficult the mail service was in those days. ] or most parts of the continent and kingdom.

It may be said Norfolk is subject to the malignant (fever). I answer not to the regular inhabitants. It is true two preachers have died here, but they were invalids. Your countrymen came here to trade; you may come to preach. Mr. Claudi [ Probably an Anglican preacher.] of Ireland hath engaged to preach, some say his subscription is 1,500 dollars, he is a new Irishman. Will you flee I believe you are a man of a better mind than he, or to flee. I am not infallible but I trust the whole with God: and you. Write me when you are upon the station.

The soul's real friend,

Francis Asbury

Historical Society of Pennsylvania

The Philadelphia Conference had been in session, and Asbury had evidently received some very unkind letters. He was quite despondent and his health was very poor. Ezekiel Cooper was evidently not eager to leave the pastorate to become the Book Agent. However, the Minutes show that he was appointed to that position.

EAGLEWORKS, PA.

June 10, 1799

To Ezekiel Cooper[The Philadelphia Conference now in session confirmed Asbury's appointment of Cooper. (See Journal, 1852 ed., June 10, 1799.)]

My dear Brother:

Your letter came to hand in the haste and distresses of conference, I confess I have not had such a shock since I received yours in Charleston. It is enough! My own children are risen up against me; one of the dearest friends I had in America; his[Reference to Cooper.] letters are like the piercing of a sword, to my breast and heart. In real tenderness to you, I have offended, fearing your strength would not be sufficient for the charge. I have suffered much of late in labor and loss of my health, horse; and perpetual crowds of brethren. My Christian doctors, say rest, rest or death, or great danger! I have resigned the pulpit, I am weaning the conferences, I am absent whole days at a time; I keep no minutes now, never preside, seldom speak in conference, only when called upon in a special manner by the conference.

I am at present resolved to seek the Lord a whole year; to know his will, should my life be spared, I have no more to say about your removal. Keep your station; it may never be my duty; or in my power, to give you another. Feeling the great; the exceedingly great wane of preachers I wished to keep one, another year. George Roberts, he hath stayed an unwarrantable time in New York; he cannot be supported upon any station but Baltimore. It may be thought, I am a very changeable Mon. It is by necessity; of others who change I am one, ye are three hundred;

watching, I can, and complaining of my conduct. I may shortly come to this, that I cannot serve the connection, without sacrificing, my health, my life, or my conscience. I am willing to break my heart with labor, but not with the continual reflections of the supposed best and holiest men upon earth; I do not believe God has called them to use me so; I find it groweth daily. I think reason, and revelation will teach me, when men are so generally displeased with my services; to doubt whether I ought to serve them any longer, then I can resign with propriety. I am yours

Francis Asbury

Garrett Biblical Institute Library

This letter is to Dr. Wilkins, who became a long-time friend of Asbury. In writing to Wilkins and to Ridgly, he refers to the appointment of George Roberts to Baltimore, Maryland. Roberts had been in New York. He was one of the outstanding preachers. He studied medicine. Because of his family he retired in 1806 and practiced medicine in Philadelphia though he retained a local preacher's relationship.

NEW YORK, N.Y.

To Wilkins [Wilkins lived just outside Baltimore at Hookstown. His father was one of the first converts to Methodism in Annapolis. Wilkins married the daughter of Samuel Owings, a member of the first class organized in Baltimore. Wilkins was one of those who worked on Asbury's Journal. He was appointed a member of the five-man committee at the Baltimore Conference of 1817 to elect a compiler for a life of Asbury. (See Smith, Recollections of an Old Itinerant, 163-65, 267-68.)] and Ridgly[Probably Captain Charles Ridgly, builder of Hampton Hall. His wife was a Methodist and a sister of Mrs. Harry Gough of Perry Hall. He gave Strawbridge a farm. (See Cyclopaedia of American Biography.)]

My much respected Brethren Wilkins and Ridgly:

As I have known you I address my letter to you. I have been greatly exposed to difficulties to find a preacher in Baltimore, and the Philadelphia Conference at last have found one, a man that will be profitable and pleasing to you. George Roberts being a married man, he will be more expensive than a single man, but his address will command a congregation, and draw support. I am, whether present or absent as ever in love to, and constant concern for your souls.

F. Asbury

Drew University Library

Some of the difficulties of getting mail in the early days are shown here. His mother had written a letter each year. She has made up her mind not to come to America.

STATE OF NEW YORK [Asbury was near Poughkeepsie. He was accompanied by Jesse Lee.]

June 28, 1799

To his Mother

My very dear Mother:

I have received yours dated in the years 1798 and 1799, both in the same week. Letters coming to me are landed at one end of the continent, when I am at the other, and are sent after me; but before they arrive, I am gone. I am thankful to God that my dear father died in peace; and that my mother yet lives, to serve God, and his ministers and people. I gladly consent to your refusal to come to America. You might find yourself disappointed, as many have done, in coming to this continent. If my way were opened to return, my difficulties would be great, in crossing the seas at this time of general distress of nations, the sea and the waves roaring, men's hearts failing them for fear of those things which shall come upon the earth, when the nations are destroying each other by thousands in a day, if not an hour. I am satisfied in your living alone, if you have such kind and watchful neighbors. My love and kind respects to them, for their attention to you.

The coming of Christ is near, even at the door, when he will establish his kingdom. He is now sweeping the earth, to plant it with righteousness and true holiness. My eyes are weak enough, even with glasses. When I was a child, and would pry into the Bible by twinkling fire-light, you used to say, "Frank, you will spoil your eyes." At that time, I sought the historical letter. I knew not the hidden pure light and life. It is my grief that I cannot preach as heretofore. I am greatly worn out at fifty-five; but it is in a good cause.

I am as ever, your dear son in the Gospel,

Francis Asbury

Drew University Library

At Liberty, Maryland, lived Daniel and Eli Dorsey, probably brothers. Asbury arrived at the home of Daniel in the evening of August 7 and spent the night there. The next day he visited Eli Dorsey and the grave of Sarah Dorsey, his former nurse. Evidently Morrell had been critical of some decision of Asbury's. Asbury is very despondent and indicates that he will "come down" at the General Conference.

LIBERTY, MARYLAND

August 9, 1799

To Thomas Morrell[Pastor in Baltimore.]

My much respected Brother:

I received your letter, and apology at Albany. As matters stand between myself and you they can be easily accommodated. I have only to say I am writing my resignation,[ The Journal states on Monday, May 5, "It was still desired that I should continue in my station," and, "I was weary but sat very close in conference. My health is better than when we began." Richard Whateoat was elected bishop.] and apology to the General Conference for every part of my general conduct. I firmly believe I have delayed my resignation too long, it is time they were put upon ways, means, and persons for the better organization of so great a body of people. It is a doubt if my life will be spared till the General Conference; but if it is not, I shall give them my thoughts in writing that they may read them after my decease. You may believe me to be in earnest, it is not the business of yesterday. I wish the preachers and people to take warning I am about to come down from a joyless height and stand upon the floor with my brethren. Several have read my resignation and in general approve the design. I am with respect as ever thine,

Francis Asbury

Drew University Library

Neither the date nor the place of this letter is given. There are peace and revival in America. Asbury had sent thirty guineas before to his widowed mother, and this seems to be another thirty guineas. His father died in 1798. The Methodist Magazine places the letter in order after the letter of June 28, 1799. It was probably written in 1799 or 1800.

To his Mother

My most dearly beloved Mother:

I am yet living, with a restoration of health, to continue to labor and travel, night and day. I am, of late, more than ever invigorated, with a revival of religion in various happy parts of our continental field. Whilst war and want prevail (in other places), we have peace and religion. I have not time to write at large. I hope to manifest my duty and care, by sending you thirty guineas. You will please to let me know if this supply is sufficient. I am not in cash at present, but trust I shall be in a few weeks. I remain as ever, your affectionate son,

Francis Asbury

Drew University Library

The conference was going on in Charleston, and Asbury was having trouble making an appointment to Charleston. He had decided to appoint George Dougharty. John Harper was the other pastor there. John Jenkin's decision seems to have been left to him. This is one of the few instances where the preachers seemed to have had any choice.

CHARLESTON, S.C.

January 8, 1800

To George Dougharty[He had been on the Oconee Circuit, Georgia. He was appointed pastor in Charleston.]

My very dear Brother:

The probability is that Brother Snethen[Nicholas Snethen was pastor in Charleston.] will take his departure from this city either to Savannah or the north about the time of my removal. It is imprest upon my mind that you are the only person of my choice to supply this critical but important station. These are to request you if life permits, to be in Charleston on February 7th as I must go hence the 10th. Brother Jenkin[John Jenkin was pastor on the Edisto Circuit. (See Minutes, 1800.) ] I am told will upon no consideration take this station; to leave it vacant till after General Conference will be attended with great damage! I cannot neglect my dear Charleston. Oh! the sorrows, the distresses, I have felt for 15 years. I wish you not to think necessity has drawn me to choose you, know my brother, you stand high in my estimation. I always wish a man to know the confidence I have in him, that he may come up to my highest expectations of him. Whilest I have been writing, John Harper[John Harper was one of the pastors in Charleston.] came in. He highly approves the appointment and that you must have the charge by all means. I have written a large letter, but when I see you I shall speak the whole.

I am with great love thine in Jesus

Francis Asbury

Duke University Library

A Letter from Mrs. Asbury to Francis Asbury

Included here is a letter from Eliza Asbury, Francis' mother. It was written/or her by Sam Barkley, the preacher at Barr. Asbury's father died in 1798, and she was living in Richard Longmore's home. As Asbury's letters frequently inquired about old friends, his mother is naturally giving him the news. She signs herself Eliza instead of Elizabeth.

GREAT BARR, ENGLAND

April 29, 1800

To Francis Asbury

My very dear Son:

May Israel's God (whose you are, and whom you love) bless you in your body, soul, and labors. Amen. Your welcome letter from CharlesTown, South Carolina, dated January 21st came duly to hand, and found me very poorly. My legs and feet swelled much, and I was very sick and faint: and I began to think my Heavenly Father was about to call me home, and I bless His holy Name I was quite resigned to His blessed will to go, unless He saw that by staying a little longer, I could promote his glory. However through Mercy, I am now much better. I can wear my own shoes, and go about again, only the affliction has left me weaker than I was; but I trust that I shall get a little more strength.

I rejoice that the Lord has supported you as He has, these many years. It is not to be wondered at, that you find some infirmities after so much and so long-labor and fatigue. However, you are still in good hands, and the great head of the church will dispose of you to His glory. Should you see your native land before I am removed: you may well think, I should rejoice to embrace you. But this I leave with Him who cannot err. I sincerely thank you for your care toward me. What you sent for my support the last year, came duly to hand. Your Aunt Sarah Rogers has been dead some time. I am glad the good work is going on in that New World. You began to meet the people at Sutton in July 1764. You was born in August 1745. I am glad that Joseph Pirkins is doing well in temporals: may he be more in earnest for salvation.

Edward Jordan and his wife are well, and desire their most affectionate love to Mr. Henry Foxall and his wife (if alive). They are very glad to hear of his welfare of body and soul: and would esteem it a singular favor to receive a letter from him soon. His brother John is gone into Wales, and does exceeding well both in spirituals and temporals. He still continues to receive the preachers. His brother Benjamin (at the Wrenn's nest) has a concern for his soul and earnestly wishes to get the preachers to his house. James Stokes is very poorly indeed. He has been for a year very low in his mind, and past business. His mother desires that his uncle will pray for him, and that he will not fail to write.

We have had some revival in Walsall: where our preachers meet with some kind friends. I live in Richard Longmore's house; and have lived there about 20 years. Elenor Rogers has been dead about a year: John is well, but not married again. Phebe Smith is alive and her husband; they are old people. Sarah Weston has been dead some years: and her husband also. We are going on pretty well at Barr: the congregations are pretty good. Sam Barkley, our preacher who writes this, desires his most affectionate love to you and Brother Whatcoat.

I remain in dear love, your ever affectionate mother,

Eliza Asbury

Methodist Historical Society of the Baltimore Conference (Lovely Lane Museum)

This is the special communication from the Baltimore General Conference of 1800 to the British Conference. It was a reply to the "Address of the British Conference" which Coke had brought to America in 1799. The American Address was forwarded to England, but the British Conference did not reply until 1803. The addresses throw light on the relationships of Bishop Coke to America and England.

BALTIMORE, MD.

May 9, 1800

The American Address to the Members of the British Conference

Very dear Brethren:

By Dr. Coke we have received your friendly and affectionate Address,[ 91 (See letter, November 1, 1796, and British Conference reply; also reply of Virginia Conference through Asbury, November 29,1797, pending a General Conference.) Coke arrived in England in the summer of 1798, and he tested the idea he had that the Bishop of London might be persuaded to ordain some Methodist preachers to administer the sacraments to the Methodist societies. He failed.

On returning to America in 1799, Coke carried with him "The Address of the British Conference to the General Conference in America," a portion of which follows:

"As we are informed by Dr. Coke, that your General Conference is to be held on the 10th of next May, we embrace the present opportunity, while assembled in Conference, to express to you the unabated esteem and affection we bear towards you.

"There is one particular, which we wish especially to lay before you. We are perfectly acquainted with the solemn engagements which Dr. Coke entered into with you, at your last General Conference. And yet we are satisfied that the work of God, and the good of the church, considered at large, call for his continuance in Europe. The West India Missions have flourished under his superintendence, beyond our most sanguine expectations. Above eleven thousand have been added to the church of God among the poor negroes, in that part of the world. But there is no person at present to fill his place, and raise the necessary supplies. We, indeed, help him in a degree; but are satisfied that the work of God in those islands would receive essential injury, on his secession from it. In Ireland, also, his assistance is peculiarly wanted. Military law has been established in that kingdom: but, through the Doctor's influence with the Government, protections have been obtained for the preachers in every necessary case; and, by this means, the brethren in that kingdom have been enabled to proceed on the itinerant plan, no one making them afraid. A Mission, also of the most hazardous, but of a very important nature, has been established in that kingdom. God has been pleased to raise three zealous men who preach in the Irish language, who have been commissioned, by the Conference, to travel through the land, preaching the Gospel to the native Irish. But the attempt would have been highly imprudent, if the Doctor had not procured for them general protections from the Government, addressed to all the Civil and Military Officers in the kingdom: and we may add, that the raising of the supplies for this new work entirely depends upon the Doctor.

"These reasons, beloved brethren, we think, strongly call upon you not to insist, at present, on the Doctor's fulfilling his engagements. We have left it to his discretion, either to send or deliver this letter to you. But if he visit you at your General Conference, we earnestly desire his return, believing it will be for the glory of God. And, if at any future time we have cause to think that the scale is turned in your favour, we shall not object to his devoting the remnant of his life to the work of God among our American brethren.

"You will rejoice to hear that our Conference, which concludes with voting this Address, has, on the whole been the best we ever had since the decease of our venerable Father in Christ, the Rev. John Wesley.

"Signed, in behalf and by order of the Conference,"

"Samuel Bradbum, President. (For this conference Coke was the secretary, taking over during Bradburn's year of office as president. Hence the lack of a secretarial signature.) (Frank Baker.)] and cordially rejoice with you in the prosperity of the Redeemer's kingdom, through your instrumentality, in the accession of so many thousands of souls to the Society of Europe.

We have considered, with the greatest attention, the request[Strangely, the American address was not considered until the conference of 1803, and a reply was drafted for the following General Conference-"The Address of the British Conference to the General Conference of the Methodists in America." The address asked once more that Coke, who was preparing to leave for America, should return after the conference, although the sentence was added: "We do most sensibly feel what you say concerning our dear friend and brother Mr. Asbury; and, for your sakes, we anxiously desire his preservation among you, which we pray you may long enjoy." The address was dated "Manchester, August 5, 1803" and signed by the president, Joseph Bradford. At this conference, as at the preceding two and the succeeding one, Thomas Coke was again secretary and therefore did not sign the address which concerned his own position so closely. (Frank Baker.)] you have made for the Doctor's return to Europe; and after revolving the subject in our minds, and spending part of two days in debating thereon, we still feel an ardent desire for his continuance[That neither Coke nor the English Conference really expected him to return to America before the General Conference of 1804 is shown by Coke's letter to James Moore, February 28, 1801. The same letter reveals his obviously genuine desire to stay in America. After recounting some of his success in Ireland, he goes on: "But I am yours. In America only I consider myself at home. I have been kept abroad for several years past by the will of God. However, I shall endeavour to wind everything round, so that, if the Lord will but suffer me, I may close my career among you. Hitherto I have been kept from residing among you by the will of Heaven. But I

do assure you it would be my supreme earthly delight, if I know my own heart, to hide myself in your woods, and labor and dwell among you.

"I intend to set off for America, the Lord preserving my health in any tolerable degree, next August or September, two years. ... I shall, God willing, make a point of finishing (that is, printing off) my Commentary on the Old Testament by next August two years. ... 1 shall also have the Commentary on the New Testament . . . ready in manuscript for the press by that time; and if Divine Providence do not again shut up my way from finally residing among you, I shall print the Commentary on the New Testament in America." (Christian Miscellany, 1847, 217-18.) (Frank Baker.) ]

in America, arising from the critical state of Bishop Asbury's health, the extension of our work, our affection for and approbation of the Doctor, and his probable usefulness, provided he continue with us. We wish to detain him, as we greatly need his services. But the statement you have laid before us in your Address, of the success of the West-India Mission under his superintendence, the arduous attempt to carry the Gospel among the native Irish, requiring his influence and support, and the earnest request you have added to this representation,-"believing it to be for the glory of God,"-have turned the scale at present in your favour. We have, therefore, in compliance with your request, lent the Doctor to you for a season, to return to us as soon as he conveniently can; but, at farthest, by the meeting of our next General Conference.

It affords us great pleasure, to hear that the Divine Presence has been so eminently with you at the last Conference; and, of consequence, that it was conducted with tranquillity and peace. The Spirit of our Jesus is a Spirit of union, is a Spirit of love. Aided by the same grace, we are endeavouring to follow your pious example, in keeping the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace; and entreat you, our elder and esteemed brethren, to accept our grateful thanks for the earnest request you have made to the God of love, that a large portion of the same Spirit may rest on us, which hath blessed you with peace and concord.

We have some great and glorious revivals in different parts of the United States; and a pleasing, growing prospect is before us. Our hearts are united to each other, to our brethren in Europe, and to all that love the Lord Jesus in sincerity. Wishing you peace and prosperity, an increase of number, and an increase of grace, we remain, with respect and esteem, with love and veneration, your Brethren in Christ Jesus.

Signed by, and in the behalf of, the General Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States of America,

Francis Asbury

Richard Whatcoat

"Minutes of Several Conversations, Sixtieth Annual Conference, begun at Manchester, July 25, 1803." Transcribed by Frank Baker