 Section 35 of Journal of the Rev. Francis Aspery, Volume 1. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Brian Keenan. Journal of the Rev. Francis Aspery, Volume 1, Section 35. Wednesday, December 1, 1779. Road twelve miles to Cardens, and preached to about one hundred serious people, and I hope there will be good done. Met Mr. Airy from Dorchester County, who was convinced by reading the writings of old Mr. Perkins. Mr. Airy solicits preaching in that county. I have taken cold by some means it has brought on an inflammation in my throat. Thursday, two. There fell a very heavy rain that prevented my going to Johnny Cake Landing. Sunday, 26. Preached at Andrew Perkins to a large congregation, spoke with great power from his name shall be called Jesus. Afterward preached at Jonathan Sipples on John 2.8. There was some moving among the people. Monday, 27. Visited the sick, Cranmer, a faithful soul, and Ruth Smith, wearing away fast with a consumption, but praising God, and continually preaching Christ. Tuesday, 28. A stormy rainy day. Went to Louis's, but none came. I must spend the whole night in prayer, after the example of my Lord, for temptation is to try me. Perhaps for my good, as I have many things to lift me up. Brother Hartley is now married, and begins to care for his wife. I have spent but little time today in reading or writing. There is a prospect of a work of religion in this state, if the preachers are faithful. But I fear none more than myself. Yet sure I am that I want to be the Lord's. The hard cold weather is broke at last. People suffer much more in winter by cold, and in summer by heat, here than in England. I find the care of a wife begins to humble my young friend, and makes him very teachable. I have thought he always carried great sale. But he will have ballast now. Wednesday, 29. Preached at Dee de Hadway's to about two hundred people, and spoke livingly from 2 Corinthians 6, 17, 18. I was let out greatly. Preached at night at Joseph Purden's from 1 Corinthians 15, 58, and had much liberty. One of the devil's camps at Tavern is broken up here, for most of their neighbors have forsaken them. Thursday, 30. Road to Stradley's and preached on Luke 4, 17, 18. I had life, and there were more people than I expected. I came to Thomas White's and went to see James Patterson, very ill. He appears to decline swiftly. Friday, 31. I went to Cardin's, a dreadful road, eight miles through the woods, and very cold. I spoke with great warmth on 1 John 3, 4, 5. Always when most tried, I have the greatest liberty. Saturday, January 1, 1780. I preached at Edward White's on Luke 3, 6 through 9, with great liberty. Not in much order, but useful to the people. Went to see I Peterkin's. He is continually praying, now death is before him. Lord hear and answer his prayer. Now commences the new year. These two years past have been trying years to me, and I doubt not, but this will be so likewise. Only, my God, keep me through the water and fire, and let me rather die than live to sin against thee. Sunday, 2. Road to Cardin's, eight miles through the swamp, by ten o'clock, and preached at eleven to about two hundred people from, Today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. I had the presence of God, and spoke more than an hour. I believe good was done. We came back safe through the snow and ice. Preached at Brother White's a little after two o'clock, on Deuteronomy 29, 10 through 13, upon renewing their covenant. Addressed the family at night. It was a dreary night of rain, wind, snow, and frost. I have been much tried, and much blessed. It is through much tribulation we must enter the kingdom. Monday, 3. Exceeding cold weather, thank the Lord for a house and home and all necessary things. Tuesday, 4. Read a chapter in the Bible, read the Good Steward, a sermon upon the Reformation of Manners, and Mr. Wesley's sermon on Mr. Whitefield's death, was closely employed, prayed three times in the family, and attended private prayer my usual times. I long to be holy, and to make the best use of a short life. How much skill is required to be a doctor? What diseases the human body is subject to? What regimen and care are necessary? How many diseases hath the soul? What skill ought a preacher to have to know the causes and cures? It will require all his time and study. The consequences of miscarriages are greater in the soul than the body. Wednesday, 5. Prayed and read closely till 3 o'clock in Mr. Wesley's fourth volume of Methodized Works. I have my trials, and believe it is because I am not so extensively in the work as I hope to be shortly. Thursday, 6. I did not travel, but read my testament, and some of Young's poetry, which is very sublime, was much taken up in prayer. I want to be employed in traveling and preaching if the weather would permit. Europeans cannot judge of the inclemency of our climate but by experience. I have hard struggles, but glory be to God his grace is sufficient. Friday, 7. The ice on the ground and the coldness of the weather prevents my traveling. This was a day of fasting. I ate nothing till after 3 o'clock, and then only a bowl of milk. Amidst all my exercises I feel as though I advanced in the divine life. I am thankful that I am so well provided for when, no doubt, thousands are suffering the want of food, firing, house-room, and clothing. Oh, may I act worthy of these favors. At 4 o'clock began reading Mr. Fletcher's checks. Saturday, 8. I spent in reading and prayer. Sunday, 9. Preached on 2 Corinthians 13, 5. Examine yourselves whether ye be in the faith, and was as pointed as I could be. Lord, make it a blessing to souls. Monday, 10. Spent part of the day in examining the list of Mr. Wesley's books. Employed some time in prayer, but not so much as I had appointed. Tuesday, 11. I read the checks, went to view a spot of land for building a preaching house upon, formed a subscription paper, and obtained subscribers for about 80 pounds. Wednesday, 12. Was principally employed in assorting the books for sale. Thursday, 13. Finished reading the first check. The style and spirit in which Mr. Fletcher writes, at once bespeak the scholar, the logician, and divine. Friday, 14. A day of fasting, prayer, writing, and visiting the society. Was kept in peace, but did not spend so much time in prayer as I wished to do. Saturday, 15. I am going into Sussex. My mind is serene, raised to God in heaven, and longing for the salvation of souls as much as ever. I rode to Johnstown. The roads are spread with sheets of ice. But my horse, roughshod, went safe. Sunday, 16. Read my selections and part of the revelation, and preached at Alexander Laws to about 150 people, an argumentative sermon from John 4, 48. There were some opposers today. I met the family and spoke to the Africans. Monday, 17. Spoke from 1st Timothy 1, 15, with great enlargement to about 150 people, and Tuesday at Sharps on 1st John 1, 8, 9. I had much light and liberty while speaking. I lodged at Mr. Ralston's, a candid, conversable Presbyterian elder, Wednesday, 19. Preached on Mark 8, 34 through 36 at William Laws to about 150 people. Met the society. I was let out upon the subject and believe many felt it. The Presbyterians appeared to be very attentive. Truth will bear a strict scrutiny. Thursday, 20. Preached at Spencer Hitches to about 30 people on Titus 1, 15, 16. I was searching, and the weather very piercing. Afterward went to Mr. Daniel Polks. Friday, 21. Road to White-Browns. This week passed I have been in much haste, but have read a little every day, and finished the Book of Joshua. Oh, for more holiness of heart! I cannot rise so early as I would, it is so extremely cold these days and nights. I long to be more spiritual. I am glad to hear that Brother Cromwell's labors are blessed in the fork, to the stirring-up and awakening of several. Glory be to God. May I rejoice more heartily in the success of others, and yet be moved to emulation, to live holier, to labor more, and preach with greater fervor. Sunday, 23. About 300 people flocked together upon short notice to whom I preached on Matthew 1, 21. Thou shalt call his name Jesus. Was very plain, but not methodical. Met the society. The strangers who stayed fled when I had nearly done, for fear I should speak to them. In the afternoon I had a long conference with a Nicolite who wanted to find out who were right, they or we. A man of no great argument, and I fear but little religion. This makes these people so troublesome to us. Monday, 24. Preached a funeral sermon for Solomon Turpin to near 300 people from Genesis 50, 24. Was much assisted and spoke, including the funeral service and exhortations in all, three hours. The people stayed with great patience and seriousness, except a few wild young men. The work revives and truth will spread. Tuesday, 25. Preached to about 30 people at J.T.'s on Psalm 27, 10. The orphan's hope. I had not great enlargement, but the few present, old and young, were in some degree affected. Satan has tried me, but cannot prevail. I read but little, the weather is so severe I cannot keep from the fire. The rooms are cold and unfinished, and families are in the way. I kept my times for prayer, but not so long or so feeling as I desire. Wednesday, 26. Preached a funeral for one Sizer. Though it was a cold day, I had about 100 people. Spoke from Psalm 90, 12. The house being uncomfortable, and the people cold, I had not the satisfaction I wished for, but hope there was some good done. Cold as it was, I read the burial service, and made some observations upon it that ought to impress our minds. I returned to John Flowers's, spent some time in conversation and prayer, and then came to our terpens. There are three serious girls left by their father in possession of a good plantation. They are young, but if they are faithful, God will stand by them. Rebecca is a pattern of piety, and a stay to all the rest. I could not but advise them to keep house. Lord, help me to improve. What is man? I am much troubled at times. I must travel. I always find a blessing in it. God has given me health, the best convenience, and some gifts, and I have some particular business that others cannot so well do. Lord, pardon my past slothfulness. Thursday, 27. The weather was very cold, and the wind so exceedingly high it was hardly safe to travel. As I had no appointment, I stopped for one day and read my Bible in course through judges, read a part of Fothergill's journal, instructed Thomas Garretson a little in English. Friday, 28. A fine day for traveling. Yesterday was so cold it was hardly possible to travel without getting one's limbs frozen. I rose soon after five o'clock, prayed four times before I left my room, and twice in the family. I then set out for Isaac Moore's below Broad Creek, met with some difficulty in the way from the ice, but came there safe. Was variously exercised with thoughts, and had hard-fightings. After riding twenty-five miles I took a little food, this being a day of abstinence and prayer with me. Saturday, 29. Rose at five o'clock, prayed five times in private, once in the family, and transcribed into my collection a piece for the preachers from Baxter's Works. Read a few chapters in the Old and one in the New Testament. My soul is more at rest from the tempter when I am busily employed. Very cold weather yet. We are under great disadvantages in large families. People want much to talk. No glass in the windows. Some places not a room to sit in with any solitude. I came to visit a young woman near her end in a dropsy. She was in some doubt about her acceptance with God, though a professor. I came in to her comfort. Surely it is a serious thing to die. Sunday, 30. Preached on John, second epistle, eighth verse, had many to hear, and I spoke with zeal. Monday, 31. Rose at five o'clock, and hope God will be with and bless us and make it a time of power. But oh, I pass through the fire day after day. Lord, let me rather die than live to dishonor thee. I preached on Psalm 113, one. Had many to hear, but not great liberty in speaking. Joseph Cromwell came in and gave an exhortation. The people were very serious. In the evening we divided the circuit and settled the preacher's stations. John Cooper for Sussex and Somerset, Hartley and Black for Kent, and part of Sussex. Tuesday, February 1, 1780. At nine o'clock we had a love feast, a time of great tenderness. After some time Brother Cromwell spoke, his words went through me, as they have every time I have heard him. He is the only man I have heard in America with whose speaking was never tired. I always admire his unaffected simplicity. He is a prodigy, a man that cannot write or read well, yet, according to what I have heard, he is much like the English John Brown, or the Irish John Smith, or Beverage's shepherd's boy. I fear he will not stand or live long. The power of God attends him more or less in every place. He hardly ever opens his mouth in vain. Some are generally cut to the heart, yet he himself is in the fire of temptation daily. Lord, keep him every moment. I preached on First Thessalonians 1,5, and was much let out. There were about five hundred people. This meeting will be attended with a great blessing. Rich and poor approve the doctrine. I heard of the sudden death of my dear friend Jonathan Skipple. About eighteen months ago he was brought home to God from an open sinner to be a happy, faithful man. He is soon taken away from the evil to come. He was loved and is much lamented. In extreme pain, but full of patience and rejoicing in God, he made a blessed end. All hail happy soul. Soon taken thy flight to rest. This is clear gains indeed. Late brought in, soon taken away. My mind moves with mixed passions of joy and grief. Freeborn Garrison spoke in his usual plainness as to matter and manner, but it moved the people greatly. Wednesday too. I preached a funeral sermon over a young woman by the name of Amelia Dodwell. I had hope in her death. I spoke on Ecclesiastes 9,10, with great fervor and clear views. Brother Cromwell exhorted. I spoke at the grave. The people were serious. Strangers attended that did not, would not before quarter meeting. These people were drawn and friends refreshed. Life begets life. I have been humbled in spirit, but blessed be God, all things go well in my own heart. Freeborn Garrison had a desire to go to dorset. I consented to his going with him. Thursday 3. Road to Mr. Freenies about 10 miles and preached to about 100 people. I spoke upon today if you will hear his voice, etc. Brother Cromwell exhorted and some were moved. Friday 4 Road to Jonathan Boyers and preached to about 80 people. The Baptists followed us about. Here we met with a woman in deep distress. We both spoke to her and, I hope, sent her away comforted. I had today a providential escape. My horse started, turned round in the woods, hardly escaped running me on the trees, which, if he had, would have overset me. It might have broken the carriage and my limbs, the ground being so hard. But thanks be to God I received no hurt. I spoke at Boyers from these words. Friday 5 Saturday 5 came to Morgan Williams' and was received kindly for the first time. I found one of my countrymen under deep distress, a backslider, and a man of sense. If restored it may be he will be a preacher. He is afraid it is impossible he should be restored. I showed him the meaning of Hebrew's sixth chapter, that it must be one who denied and opposed as the Jews did and in enmity to crucify Christ, which he never did. Sunday 6 spoke on Hosea 13-9. There were more people than the house could hold and they were very attentive. The people seemed quite ripe in the fork for the gospel. I rode to Chop Tank near 30 miles. Monday 7 I went to see the old people at Mr. and Mrs. Peterkin, rejoicing in God and willing to die. Made in addition to my book to the preachers. I have done but little of account but visiting the sick and praying with them. Tuesday 8 I added to my book and kept my times of prayer. I abridged from Mr. Law. My mind was well taken up with God. Wednesday 9 Half-peace but long to be employed in the public work. I hear the work spreads in Bowlingbroke and Talbot. So the Lord leads us on through many hindrances. Perhaps there never was such a work carried on by such simple men of such small abilities and no learning. The Lord shows his own power and makes bear his own right arm. Brother Garrison set off for Dorset to preach the gospel. We committed the remains of Mrs. Peterkin in the dust at Thomas White's. She died in full triumph of faith. Many people were present and we gave exhortations suited to the occasion. Thursday 10 I read a little in the morning and visited the sick. Was blessed in talking with Jay White's family. I must spend whole nights in prayer. I have been in peace but want more love. Brother Hartley has obtained all but jail after much labor and pains. The grand jury returned the bill of indictment, Ignoramus. Thus God makes way for us in all trials. Prayed for an hour after I took my room. I took my bed about 10 o'clock. Had not prayed in the day so much as I should. Oh, my God, keep me in the spirit of prayer. Saturday 12 visited my friends and prayed house to house. Met the class and was much blessed. Spent some time in prayer but Satan hath many devices. Sunday 13 I rode 8 miles and preached to about 200 people who seemed dead and unfeeling. Spoke on Romans 5 1920 and labored hard to make them understand but fear they did not. At 3 o'clock preached on 1st Timothy 3 with some life. We had but few people and most of them strangers. Monday 14 The work of God revives but the people are not so faithful as they ought to be. Tuesday 15 A rainy morning I had to go to slaughters and on my way called at John cases. Prayed and went on to the place of preaching. There were about 100 very attentive, poor, ignorant people. Spoke on Acts 13 26 with great liberty. It was through great tribulation I went. I am tried as by fire. I called at Deals and spoke to him about his soul. Went to see old Mrs. Cox a great professor of religion but now going out of her senses on account of the loose behavior of one of her children which makes me fear she was upon a self-righteous foundation. She is now in a delirium insensible of anything. Spoke rousingly to her but could not wake her at all. Went from there to Mr. Peterkin he is sick but has no deep sense of religion. Wednesday 16 A bright, blessed morning but I am in heaviness through manifold temptations but trust the Lord will keep me. Have read in the intervals of these two days twelve of Mr. Wesley's sermons and cannot read them without conviction and great instruction. God is with me. He is preparing me for great labors and I hope yet to endure to the end but must be more sanctified. Lord hasten the hour thy kingdom bring in and give me the power to live without sin. Keep me holy and constant in thy work always industrious that Satan may have no fair occasion to tempt. I lectured at Edward White's on John 14, 19 through 21 and had great liberty, love, and life and the people likewise. After all my trials God blesses me. Satan is a liar and Christ is true and will never leave nor forsake me. Thursday 17 I am going to preach a funeral sermon for Zac Nichols, a schoolmaster a reading churchman an Englishman and wish I could say assuredly a Christian. I found great liberty in preaching from Matthew 24, 44 read and explained the funeral service. There was a great melting among the people and I hope not in vain. Saturday 19 I rode through bad roads to Williams's and was in peace and prayer. Stepped into Johnson's took dinner and had some close conversation with him. He is a mild conversable man. I came in late the people were met exhorted and felt some life among the people. Sunday 20 was solemn in prayer spoke on James 1 22 through 24 I was assisted to be close moving and argumentative but have in general hard labor. Here they are an unsettled people and weak of understanding. Preached in the afternoon at the widow Breedies from James 1, 8 a double-minded man is unstable in all his ways. This text was pressed upon me to speak from while at Williams's and I could not get over it. In the afternoon I found there was a cause. The Nicolites had been working upon several of our friends and had shook them with their craft. These are a people who sprung from one Nichols, a visionary but I hope a good man. He held quicker principles but the friends would not receive him. A certain James Harris is at present their leader. They clothe in white take everything from nature and condemn all other societies that do not conform to the outward. If a man were to speak like an archangel, if he sung, prayed and wore a black or a colored coat he would not be received by these people. They were almost asleep when the Methodists came but now are awake and working with simple awakened people. They love, like some other denominations, to fish in troubled water. They oppose family prayer as much as any sinners in the country and have much to say against our speakers. Profess what they will there is nothing in names. End of Section 35 Recording by Brian Keenan Section 36 of Journal of the Reverend Francis S. Berry Volume 1 This is LibriVox Recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Brian Keenan Journal of the Reverend Francis S. Berry Volume 1 Section 36 I am kept in peace. Preached twice yesterday and met the society. Jay Hartley is sick. I see there is no way like prayer for the life of my own soul. Some lazy backsliding people among us are gone after the Nicolites. Let them go for they were become a salt that had lost its savor. We want to know such people. I preached at the drawbridge to about two hundred people. I spoke on, ye cannot serve God and mammon. Was clear and searching. Mr. Blank, who has been a man much in pursuit of the world and who was condemned by our friends in his conduct, rose up after I had done and said he was the man pointed at and desired another hearing. Tuesday 22 Road to Andrew Perdins had about sixty people and spoke on Luke 11, 28. God and keep it. Met the class. John Beecham and Dr. Bonus both professed sanctification. I hope it is so. The society is much increased, but all is not gold that shines. Wednesday 23 I wrote to Shaw's it came up cold and snowed, had about fifty people, a solid society, tender and in a measure faithful. I have been much in haste these two days, had but little time for prayer and private duties, but I take mornings and nights and am resolved that if not in the day I will have it at night and morning. I was tried in getting off, called at two of the friends' houses and had prayer and had my trials also. Spoke at Shaw's on 1 John 3 10. Felt warm in spirit, although I suffered on the road with cold. I read but little, but am laboring for souls. Thursday 24 Road ten miles out and ten miles in to Joseph Wyatt's about two hundred people, a very cold day. Spoke on Titus 2 11 to the end. Was much let out and kept in peace all day. Friday 25 A day of fasting and rest sorely tempted. This made me think that had I gone to preach, or to town and met class, it would not have been the case. So I must for the future be more employed, for this is the will of God concerning me. This morning I read the testament and had a good time in general this week, but oh, the workings of heart I labor under. Have spent much time in prayer night and morning. I much let out at such times. Saturday 26 Road to Boyers and Met Society Most of the hearers present met in class. Spoke as searching as possible and gave an exhortation. The people were much stirred up. At night I was greatly engaged in prayer. Sunday 27 Spoke from Luke 11 24 through 27. There were many people and a good time. I showed how the devil is cast out and how he returns. Then rode to Dover and came in just as church was ended. I preached with great labor on Acts 24-25. Some had eaten and drank more than enough and were fit to go to sleep, but the greater part were attentive. But oh, what a continual burden have I to come and preach here. Went home with lawyer Bassett a very conversant and affectionate man who from his own acknowledgments appears to be sick of sin. His wife is under great distress. A gloom of dejection sits upon her soul. She prayeth much and the enemy takes an advantage of her low state. Monday 28 I rode to Shaw's, spoke at 3 o'clock on Acts 28-28. I was blessed with a calm sweet frame and had great ease and freedom in my soul and subject. An attentive congregation. I feel a peculiar love to these people and expect if Mr. Bassett ever comes to God he is to preach. I have been kept in peace and am ready to think sometimes God has saved me from all sin, properly so-called. Satan made one sudden stroke at me but I looked to God. Last Sunday morning I was drawn out in prayer and felt the effect in a particular manner in preaching at Boyers. The word went like fire. A little of it in the evening but there is so much pride and so much of unbelief in the Dover people that a man needs the faith and power of Stephen to bear up and speak to them. Tuesday 29 Road to Scotton's had about 50 people. They were disappointed in expecting me the day before and I was misinformed. I spoke with Liberty on 1st Timothy 1-5. The roads were bad beyond my expectation. I rode on horseback returned to Shaw's, took dinner heard of free-born garrisons being put in jail in Dorset. So Satan has stretched his chain but this shall work for good. Spent a night with Mr. McGaw had great satisfaction in conversing with him relative to his having a closer connection with us. Wednesday 1 March 1780 Road 12 miles to the chapel. 4 or 5 miles the roads were so bad that I was obliged to get out of the carriage and walk. I came late and much fatigued. Spoke on Matthew 5-16. Let your light so shine before man. Spoke freely and was blessed. The work revives here and over in Queen Anne's County a few miles distant from this. Through bad roads with difficulty I rode to Fethed's Mills. Stayed that night. Could not get to Choptank. Thursday 2 Heard of Mr. Peterkin's death he died last night. I came to his house and went to Thomas White's. Find it as a fact that Brother Garrison was put into jail last Sunday. Friday 3 Rose between 4 and 5 o'clock and prayed some time. Have begun reading Robertson's history of Scotland in two volumes. Spoke on Revelation 3-20 with Liberty. Met class, came back and spoke a few words to the people who were met to put the remains of James Peterkin in the ground. At the repeated solicitations of Mrs. M. White I attended those old people in life and death. Saturday 4 I wrote to Pettichord and Cromwell and have appointed Joshua Dudley for Dorset. He is qualified by law. Sunday 5 I went to church and heard Mr. Neal preach a good sermon on O that they were wise. I preached at Edward White's on Micah 6-6-8. The subject was too labored for the congregation, yet some of them were not. Sunday 5 I went to church and heard Mr. Neal preach a good sermon on O that they were wise. I preached at Edward White's on Micah 6-6-8. The subject was too labored for the congregation, yet searching, and the people were solemn. Monday 6 I was kept close in reading the first volume of the history of Scotland and was kept in quiet. In the morning I wrote to Brother Garrison to comfort him under his imprisonment. Tuesday 7 I think a certain person here that has been a high church woman will yet be a Methodist. Called at Vincent Dorothy's took dinner, talked, and prayed with the family. I am to preach at his house. Wednesday 8 I rose at 5 and began reading in Mr. Wesley's notes on the Acts of the Apostles. This day I visited the widow Cox who has nearly lost her reason. She was pleased to see me in some tenderness and intervals of reason, though I had but little satisfaction with her. Lectured on Jeremiah 3 15-19 and was blessed. Came back to Thomas White's. Thursday 9 I am under a gloomy heaviness through manifold temptations. Read Mr. Wesley's notes on the Epistle to the Romans. Some of his sentiments I have adopted and thought them my own. Perhaps they are not, for I may have taken them first from him. Prayed often and shut myself up. I find meditating on past unfaithfulness humiliating, but I must go on. Pondering my ways so much dejects and weakens my faith. Lord, keep me. Keep me, gracious Lord, and never let me go. I met class at night, though none but the White's families. It was made a blessing and I am in my own heart. Friday 10 I rose between four and five o'clock, spent some time in private prayer and with the families. Read Mr. Wesley's notes on 1 Corinthians and ended the reading of the Second Book of Kings in my reading in course the Bible through. Tomorrow I am to go down into the Northwest fork where I am told the Lord revives his work. In the evening was unwell to bed early. Saturday 11 Rose under some exercise of soul set off for the fork about 11 o'clock, stopped at Brother Gosley's, fed my horse, and heard of the severity used to Brother Garrison in Cambridge jail and that they would not let the people come to speak with him. All this shall work for good and we will rejoice that we are counted worthy to suffer for righteousness' sake. Found it bad traveling when I came into by-roads my horse nearly overset but with difficulty came to white browns and was blessed in praying with and speaking to the family. Sunday 12 Road to Turpins and fear something is the matter here. I cannot preach with freedom and am not happy. Spoke on Ezekiel 18-19 in light and liberty and as searching as I well could. Monday 13 Received a letter from Brother Garrison. His enemies are softened towards him. I think the Lord will deliver me yet from all evil. I heard Cromwell was put in jail but did not credit it. I labored to be more spiritual and to be holy in heart and life. I rode to John Cannons and spoke on John 1-8-9 had liberty. There were about a hundred people and some little stir. One of the sons has a religious frenzy. He was panic struck and prayed some hours. He kneeled down in time of preaching. He may be sincere and come to something. Road to Morgan-Williams met Brother Lowry now rejoicing in God. His backsliding healed and his soul restored. Received another letter from Brother Garrison wherein he informs me the people want to get rid of him and to rule to him as formerly nor to the people who visit him. Tuesday 14 Rose in peace spent near an hour in retirement and was blessed. Read some chapters in the Bible. My soul is kept in peace. Glory be to God. I wrote to Philip Rogers and spent my time till noon in reading, writing, and prayer. Wednesday 15 Brother Garrison expects to come out of jail by the favour of the Governor and Council of Maryland in spite of his foes. So the Lord works for us. In Somerset they are using some of Bishop Warburton's works against Mr. Wesley and Mr. Whitefield. I was much blessed in speaking at Spencer Hitches on Titus 3, 2-8 to nearly 200 serious people. Their prejudices were off. It is to be observed, bad as these people were, they never persecuted us as they have done at some other places. It cannot be for our being falsely reported to be Tories for in Somerset some of our greatest enemies are of that stamp. Thursday 16 I have peace. Rose at five o'clock, read the scriptures, ended the first book of Chronicles. Last night I gave an exhortation. A young girl wept enough to break her heart. I hope she will seek the Lord. I am kept in faith and feel my heart much melted and moved to poor opposers and can pray for them as I do for myself. Friday 17 Rose at five o'clock prayed and read a while in an old author who warmly attacks popery in its capital errors and in a strong argumentative manner. But is full of Greek and Latin quotations. I wrote to Johnstown and from thence to William Laws. Met Freeborn Garrison who came out of jail by order of the Governor and Council of Maryland who had sent to the Governor of Delaware to know if F. Garrison were not a fugitive and had received satisfactory information. Brother Garrison preached on Matthew 25, 10 and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage and the door was shut. I spoke a few words after him. One that the way some kept off conviction was by neglect of prayer. Two, some not uniform in prayer. Three, others never intended to give up all sin. Four, others rest in present attainments and take pride in what God hath done for them and fall away. And closed with an application suited to the cases and consciences of the people. Saturday 18 Rose at four o'clock time in prayer. Brother Garrison took my place and appointments. We drew some outlines for our conference while together. I preached at John Lewis's on John 8, 31 through 37 and had great liberty and more people than I expected as it rained. Sunday 19 Preached at Alexander Laws and spoke searchingly. The people were attentive. Some Presbyterians brought to think easily. I rode to William Laws and spoke on 2 Thessalonians 1 7 through 13, had living liberty and I hope not in vain. Monday 20 Rose early, rode an hour and then rode 24 miles to Caleb Furby's to preach. Was late, but came before Caleb Boyer had done meeting the class. Spoke on John 3, 24 and felt quickenings. Went home with Waitman Skipple. He and Philip Barrett determined to go about the chapel and to set it near the drop bridge. Tuesday 21 Rode to Perdence and had many people. Spoke on Malachi 3, 16 through 18. Had much power in speaking. Then rode to Choctank to the funeral of James Peterkin and Elizabeth his wife, at Thomas White's. Wednesday 22 Mr. McGaw preached the funeral sermon of J. and Elizabeth Peterkin in Mr. White's barn. There were about 400 people. I only stood as clerk. Joseph Cromwell gave an exhortation pretty long and rough. Mr. Neal gave an exhortation. Mr. McGaw and myself returned to the baptizing the children. I have been collecting all the minutes of our conferences in America to assist me in a brief history of Jesus Christ and an account of our principles. Thursday 23 Rose Early have some trials among my friends, but it is all well God is with me. Company is not agreeable at all times, but the will of the Lord be done if he calls me to it. Good Friday 24 A cloudy day it began raining when I was a few miles on my way. I could not turn back. The clock had cleared away. I came to the chapel. There were about 40 people. Spoke on Isaiah 53, 10. Then rode to Brother Shaw's and was much blessed, as I always am in this family. I have deep and sore trials. The remembrance of them depresses my soul. Saturday 25 Have peace of soul, but am not enough given up to God. I purpose to be more devoted to God than to prayer and meditation. Rode to Boyers and met the society. The people appeared to be more alive to God than when I was here last. Preached on 2 Timothy 2, 18, 19, and had much light and liberty. Sunday 26 Rode to church where we had a smooth, sensible discourse on 1 Peter 1, 3. I attended the Communion. Communicants increased daily and people get awakened by us. When this is the case, they go to the Lord's Supper. In the afternoon I preached, many flocked to hear it being Easter Sunday. Spoke planer than ever on Acts 17, 18. Had enlargement of heart. The church minister was present. Monday 27 Called at the Rev. Mr. McGaws, spent an hour, changed the books and sentiments, and came off to Mrs. Then to Pertins, there were near 200 people. Spoke on 1 Peter 1, 7 through 12. Was blessed and felt some things I spoke. Nothing but hard trials could make me speak so. Tuesday 28 I wrote to Stradleys and spoke on 1 Peter 3, 18, with great opening. Enter deep into the nature of Christ's sufferings and some sublime truths of the Gospel. Wednesday 29 Spent what time I had to spare in transcribing from Robert Walker a part of one of his sermons to the preachers, and put it in my selections. I went to preach at Vincent Dorothy's and spoke on Luke 24, 25, 26. Made a faithful discharge of truth to the people. They were attentive. I have been very much exercised in mind. The time for leaving this place draws nigh. Never was confinement in one state, Delaware, so trying to me. Lord, help me, I am weak. At night I went to Edward White's and gave an exhortation. Was greatly troubled in mind. Thursday 30 I am going to Sussex on my way to the quarter meeting at the fork. I fear there will be great commotions this summer. God only knows what the end of these things will be. But, blessed are those people that are found watching. I lost my way and wandered into the swamp, and feared I must lie in the woods, but came to a friend's house and then pushed on and reached Mr. Polk's about seven o'clock. Read a wonderful book against Methodists, but it will do no great harm. Friday 31 Waked before three o'clock, though I did not go to bed till after ten o'clock, was weather bound and read the second volume of Robertson's History of Scotland. The fate of unfortunate Mary Queen of Scots was affecting, and the admired Queen Elizabeth does not appear to advantage in the Scotch history. Prayed an hour this morning, and retired twice. Used abstinence, though not so severe as I commonly use on Fridays. Saturday, April 1, 1780. Rose about half-past three o'clock, and set out for Broad Creek, was kept in peace all the way. When in temptation I pray, and it flies. Came in about three o'clock, and found that the spirit of lying and fury reigned. I received a satisfactory letter from William Moore. He hopes a reconciliation will take place in Virginia if healing measures are adopted. Sunday 2 Rose about six o'clock, I lay in a dark room, and was little unwell. I kept near to God, but under some dejection. I believe it was because the people of this house are not right toward God. Spoke today on Acts 28, 22. As for this sect, we know that everywhere it is spoken against. Spoke long and freely, but the people were not greatly moved. Preached in the afternoon at George Moors on 1 Peter 4, 18. If the righteous are scarcely saved, and a blessing followed. Monday 3 Rose at five o'clock, spent some time in prayer, and my reading in course to the 23rd Psalm. Preached at Thomas Jones' to about sixty careless, ignorant people, had very little comfort. Spoke from 2 Timothy 2, 19. Read in the afternoon the appendix to the history of Scotland. I am in heaviness through the deadness of the people, and the lies of the wicked about us, of which there appear to be enough. And it does seem now as if they could freely shed our blood. Lord, give me faith and patience. The present state of things is, report, say they, and we will report it. Nothing can come amiss. All is fish that comes to the net. The wicked will say anything. Yes, all manner of evil against us. Tuesday 4 There came on rain, but I went to Gitting Bradley's. There were about forty people, though it rained rapidly. Spoke on Revelation 3, 20, and was much blessed. Then returned to George Moore's. Wednesday 5 A snowy morning. Road to eleven bacons. There were about thirty people. I was let out to speak close to them, and some felt it to the heart. Thursday 6 I preached from 2 Chronicles 7, 14, and was led, though with labor, to deliver my soul to them. Set off to go seven miles through a dreary road and deep swamps to Calloways. Came in about seven o'clock, and found liberty as soon as I came. God has a people in these rude wastes. I expect to go after preaching to the seaside. Friday 7 About three days ago I was moved to pray for good weather when I saw what a condition we should be in. There is a change in the weather. I have peace this morning, and my heart is lifted up to God in thankfulness. An appearance of good weather. Blessed be God. Though when the weather was so uncomfortable I was tempted to murmur. Lord, pardon me in this also. Surely what the Lord does is right, whether he does it against a single person or to a whole nation. Preached at Calloways on 2 Peter 3 18 and was blessed. There were about fifty souls and attentive feeling people. After preaching I rode thirty miles to the seaside. There met Brother Garrison confident that God had in a vision of the night sanctified him. Saturday 8 Went to the sea and bathed, though cold, and then rode about nine miles from Evans's to Gray's. Our quarterly meeting began. I preached on Romans 5 6 7 and had liberty. The Baptists show their enmity and go from house to house persuading weak people to be dipped and not to hear the Methodists and they bring their preachers in our absence. End of Section 36 Recording by Brian Keenan Section 37 of Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1 This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Brian Keenan Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1 Section 37 Sunday 9 I have peace. It has been very rainy but clear this morning. We had a great day. Preached on 1 John 5 19. We know that we are of God and the whole world lieth in wickedness. Brother Garrison exhorted there was some melting. John Cooper spoke to purpose. Joseph Cromwell brought up the rear with great success. The people were serious. Monday 10 I have peace of soul but too much talk like trifling. The devil throws his firebrands but grace is sufficient. I appointed Brother Wyatt to keep the ground against the Baptists and to supply our places here instead of the traveling preachers that are going to conference. For John's people intend to come a fishing about when we are gone. We had a love feast at 8 o'clock many spoke in a very feeling manner. God was with us at 11 o'clock. I preached on 2 Corinthians 4 12. Brother Cromwell and Brother Garrison exhorted the people were moved at what was said though simple and the same things he frequently says but he is a man of God and their spiritual father. Tuesday 11 we rode 50 miles to Choctank. Wednesday 12 I was employed in writing a short history of the Methodists also in preparing my papers for conference. I am going from my home Thomas Whites. Thursday 13 I set off for Richard Shaw's in Kent and came in about 5 o'clock and kept a watch evening. I spoke on 1 Corinthians 16 13 14 Caleb Petticord exhorted Friday 14 A day of fasting I was employed in preparing my paper for conference. Caleb Petticord is my scribe. I am under some apprehensions the trouble is near. Thomas McClure is confined sick in Philadelphia. Henry Kennedy and William Adams are dead. So the Lord cuts off the watchmen of Israel. But sure I am that it is better to die early than to live though late to dishonor God. Saturday 15 I spent the afternoon with Mr. McGaw. Sunday 16 Rd 12 miles and preached at the chapel on Psalms 122 6-8 Had some life among the people but I fear they did not properly understand me. Preached at Richard Shaw's my farewell sermon on Acts 21 32 The people were solemn but not deeply affected with a sense of the worth of their souls. Monday 17 Our quarter meeting began. Our little chapel with galleries held about 700 but there were I judge near 1000 people. I preached on Philippians 1 27 only let your conversation be as it becomeeth the gospel of Christ. Tuesday 18 After Love Feast Mr. McGaw read prayers and Mr. Neal preached a good sermon on Feed My Sheep Brother Garrison and myself exhorted The power of God was present in the Love Feast. Wednesday 19 I left Mr. Emery's where we were very kindly entertained in the dreary forest. They lived well. These people were brought off their prejudices by Mr. McGaw's preaching in the chapel. They and their family connections promised fair. Brother Garrison spoke on Ye Now Have Sorrow but he could not move the people here as at the seaside. They are cooler and he is not their spiritual father. Thursday 20 Set off for Baltimore and called at Mr. McGaw's. We parted in much affection. Called at Mr. Bassett's and had a warm conversation with Warner Mifflin. We prayed and Mrs. Bassett made a confession of finding peace. We rode to Solomon Simons' Friday 21 We rode to Robert Thompson's Maryland Cecil County. Dined, prayed, and spoke close to him who had fainted in his mind being now left alone. We came to Susquehanna River a little before sunset and passed over in the night. Rowed six miles in the dark and a bad road. But Providence has preserved me hitherto. I had a very tender feeling for the people I left behind. This makes me think I must return. Saturday 22 I could not pray for our friends we left behind without weeping. We rode to Mr. Gough's Baltimore County. My friends appeared very joyful to see me. Brother Glenn Denning had his objections to make and pleaded some in favor of the Virginia Brethren who had made a division. Footnote See what a poor unsettled creature this Glenn Denning ever was. This was long before he went into his mighty trances, visions, etc., that he talks so much about. No wonder that a person of his selfish temper should behave as he has done to his brethren the Methodists. W.S. End of footnote We prayed after dinner and God was with us. I had cause to talk more than I desired. Sunday 23 Lord give me wisdom that is profitable to direct. This is a dumb Sabbath. I have no freedom to preach. There are strange changes. What has taken place with our brethren seems parallel with the commotions of the southward and the same spirit. I am kept in peace through grace and am casting my care upon the Lord. If I cannot keep up old Methodism in any other place I can in the peninsula. That must be my last retreat. Spent some time in private and prepared some conditions for a partial reconciliation in hopes to bring on a real one in Virginia. Brother Garrison preached in the afternoon on these words. Disallowed indeed of men but chosen of God and precious. He was short and profitable. I prayed with my heart full. Met Brother Selby whom I have not seen for near six years one of my old friends from New York driven about by the commotions of the present times. He with great joy fell upon my neck and wept. I am more moved than ever before with leaving and meeting my friends. These are humbling times and make the Christians love one another. I found the spirits of the preachers much melted and softened. I hope things will be made easy. Monday 24 We made a plan for the appointment of the preachers. Received three epistles from the jerseys soliciting three or four preachers with good tidings of the work of God and me in those parts. The petitioners I shall hear with respect. I am kept in peace. Praise the Lord, all my soul. Rowe to Baltimore and my friends were much rejoiced to see me but silence broke my heart. The act against non-jewers reduced me to silence because the oath of fidelity required by the act of the state of Maryland was preposterously rigid. I became a citizen of Delaware and was regularly returned. I was at this time under recommendation of the Governor of Delaware as taxable. Tuesday 25 Our conference met in peace and love. We settled all our northern stations. Then we began in much debate about the letter sent from Virginia. We first concluded to renounce them, then I offered conditions of union. One, that they should ordain no more. Two, that they should come no farther than Hanover Circuit. Three, we would have our delegates in their conference. Four, that they should not presume to administer the ordinances where there is a decent Episcopal minister. Five, to have a union conference. These would not do as we found upon long debate and we came back to our determinations although it was like death to think of parting. At last a thought struck my mind to propose a suspension of the ordinances for one year and so cancel all our grievances and be one. It was agreed on both sides and Philip Gatch and Ruben Ellis who had been very stiff came into it and thought it would do. Wednesday 26 Preached on Acts 6-4 with Liberty. Thursday 27 Read the advice to preachers. At twelve o'clock we had a melting love feast. Preachers and people wept like children. At night I preached on Acts 2-48 with Great Liberty to about 600 people. Joseph Cromwell and Freeborn Garretson spoke. At the recommendation of the conference, William Waters, too. These three volunteered and were to be my spokesmen. Myself and Brother Garretson are going to the Virginia Conference to bring about peace and union. I am kept in peace through much business. Little sleep, cold weather, and damp. Lord return and visit us. Friday 28 I have peace and am going to Brother Lynch's this day. I had a melting sense of divine love upon my heart after dinner. This family professeth sanctification. Whether this be so in the fullest sense I know not. But this I know more spiritual than ever I knew them. So far it is well and we go upon safe ground. Saturday 29 Road to Mr. Goff's. This is a good house to do business at. Sunday 30 I went to the Fork Preaching House an Episcopalian minister preaching just by. Spoke on Psalm 78 4-8 It was not made a great blessing to the people. I was much tried to know if the subject was proper and I think it was. I could not make choice of any other. Spoke at Mr. G's on 1 Peter 1 5-10 had only the family to preach to. This is not like Kent in Delaware for life and congregations. There were many of us and much talking prevented my reading, writing, and praying. Monday May 1 1780 I am going to Virginia I am kept, but not so much employed for God as I ought to be. Preached at Baltimore on John 519 a rainy night, but many came to hear. Tuesday 2 I rode to John Worthington's and spoke at night. God was present. I once had an opportunity of seeing Charles Scott apparently full of the Holy Ghost. But what is he now? John Reverie Wednesday 3 I rode to Georgetown from thence to William Adams' in Virginia, came in late and fatigued. Thursday 4 Prepared some papers for a Virginia conference. I go with a heavy heart and fear the violence of a party of positive men. Lord give me wisdom. I preached at the chapel in Fairfax and met Mr. Griffith who was friendly, and we spent the afternoon together. Friday 5 Set out in company with Brother Garrison, rode near 40 miles lodged at Garritz Tavern where we were well entertained. Brother Garrison talked to the landlord on the subject of religion and prayed with him at night and in the morning, though he would not consent to call his family together. We rode on to Mr. Arnold's about 30 miles, the road's good. Brother Garrison will let no person escape a religious lecture that comes in his way. Sure he is faithful, but what am I? We found the plague was begun. The good man Arnold was warm for the ordinances. I spoke on, strived to enter in at the straight gate. There were about 40 people, but dead enough. Sunday 7 We rode 18 miles to Brown's Tavern. I preached on Isaiah 55 6, 7. On entering into Virginia I have prepared some papers for the conference and expect trouble, but grace is almighty. Hitherto hath the Lord helped me. Monday 8 We rode to Granger's 15 miles, stopped and fed our horses. These people are full of the ordinances. We talked and prayed with them. Then rode on to the Lincoln Town Ferry, much fatigued with the ride. Went to French Smith's, where all the preachers were met. I conducted myself with cheerful freedom, but found there was a separation in heart and practice. I spoke with my countryman John Dickens and found him opposed to our Continuance in Union with the Episcopal Church. Brother Waters and Garrison tried their men and found them inflexible. Tuesday 9 The conference was called. Brother Waters, Garrison and myself stood back, and being afterward joined by Brother Dromgoole, we were desired to come in, and I was permitted to speak. I read Mr. Wesley's thoughts against a separation, showed my private letters of instructions for Mr. Wesley, set before them the sentiments of the Delaware and Baltimore Conferences, read our Epistles and read my letter to Brother Gatch and Dickens's letter in answer. After some time spent this way it was proposed to me if I would get the circuits supplied they would desist, but that I could not do. We went to preaching. I spoke on Ruth 2.4 and spoke as though nothing had been the matter among the preachers or people, and we were greatly pleased and comforted. There was some moving among the people. In the afternoon we met, the preachers appeared to me to be farther off. There had been, I thought, walking out of doors. When we, Asbury, Garrettson, Waters and Dromgoole could not come to a conclusion with them we withdrew and left them to deliberate on the conditions I offered, which was to suspend the measures they had taken for one year. After an hour's conference we were called to receive their answer which was they could not submit to the terms of union. I then prepared to leave the house to lodge under the heaviest cloud I ever felt in America. Oh! what I felt! Nor I alone, but the agents on both sides. They wept like children, but kept their opinions. Wednesday 10. I returned to take leave of conference and to go off immediately to the north, but found they were brought to an agreement while I had been praying as with a broken heart in the house we went to lodge at Brother Waters and Garrettson had been praying upstairs where the conference sat. We heard what they had to say. Surely the hand of God has been greatly seen in all this. There might have been 20 promising preachers and 3,000 people seriously affected by this separation. But the Lord would not suffer this. We then had preaching by Brother Waters on, come thou with us and we will do the good. Afterward we had a love feast, preachers and people wept, prayed and talked, so that the spirit of dissension was powerfully weakened, and I hoped it would never take place again. Thursday 11. I rode to Petersburg 35 miles through much fatigue and want of rest, found myself in disposed with the headache. With difficulty I spoke at Brother Harding's on, we know that we are of God. But was so unwell I could scarcely speak at all. Though having prevailed with God and man I yet halt on my thigh. Friday 12. I am a little better rest this day to write to Mr. Wesley. In Petersburg our friends who had a little religion before these times have declined. I fear their hearts are worldly. Some who had religion before these times have lost it. And many who had none have gained much. Like some who had no fortunes have gained great ones, and many of those who had great fortunes are in a fair way to lose them if these times hold long. Saturday 13. Went to Nathaniel Lee's and preached to about fifty people on Ephesians 5.8 and had freedom. The congregation small owing to a muster and cock-fighting not far off. I then rode to Woodtuckers a great friend to the old plan of Methodism and was kept in peace. Sunday 14. Rowed to George Booth's he is a curious genius for a mechanic. We had a great house and about three hundred people. I spoke on 1 Corinthians 2.14. Plain, warm, and searching. But they seemed in general careless. I fear there is but little solid pure religion here. Monday 15. Was much exercised. Lord keep me every moment. As this is rest day I intend to employ my time in reading and writing principally. But my spirit is restless various ways. And I think I ought always to be employed. I am for attending my twelve times of prayer and resisting the devil steadfastly in the faith. I am much humbled before the Lord. A blessing I want and will not cease crying to the Lord for it. I read Dr. Chandler's appeal to the public. And upon the whole he is right. Why might not the Protestant Episcopal Church have as much indulgence in America as any other society of people? Tuesday 16. Spent near an hour in private prayer and twice in the family. Then went to Notaway Church where Mr. Jarrett gave an excellent sermon on A Man Shall Be a Hiding Place. He was rather shackled with his notes. We then had sacrament. Afterward I returned to George Booth's spent the evening with Mr. Jarrett and found him as friendly as ever. He labors, but the people give him little or nothing. Wednesday 17. Road to the widow heaths about seventy people were waiting for me. It was twenty miles my horse lame and the road rough. The enemy tried me just before I came to the house as he generally does if the distance is more than I expect. I spoke on Luke 13 twenty-three and was pointed and had liberty. God moved upon the hearts of the people. Met the society about fifteen pious people. Most were blessed and they seemed all unstretched for holiness. Spent my afternoon in reading and study. There seems to be some call for me in every part of the work. I have traveled at this time from north to south to keep peace and union. And oh, if a rent and separation had taken place, what work what hurt to thousands of souls. It is now stopped and if it had not it might have been my fault. It may have been my fault that it took place. But I felt a timidity that I could not get over. Creatures and people making the trial they see the consequences and I hope will do so no more. They have suffered for their forwardness. May we all be more prudent. Thursday, 18 When I came to Andrews's the people had no notice. I was much tried on the way my horse lame and the road rough. But I lifted up my heart to God. The family sent out and called in about sixty people black and white. Spoke on Revelations 22 13 through 18. I had liberty and felt a moving in my own soul. Two women were cut to the heart and were in an agony of soul for holiness. I prayed with them twice while the people stayed and afterwards spoke to them. They both, notwithstanding their agony had a clear sense of the blessing they stood in need of and believed God had purified their hearts. I saw them both happily breathing a divine calm and heavenly sweetness. I see clearly that to press the people to holiness is the proper method to take them from contending for ordinances or any less consequential things. I read and transcribed some of Potter's church government and must prefer the episcopal mode of church government to the Presbyterian. If the modern bishops were as the ancient ones all would be right and there wants nothing but the spirit of the thing. Friday 19 A very warm day. I rode over black water to bedding fields and spoke with liberty to about one hundred people on Act 2619. When I came to treat on sanctification I melted into tenderness and the people also. Met class and had a blessed tenderness among the people. Kept a fast day till four o'clock then ate no meat. It is a day of peace and purity but I might have been more in prayer. I called to see Captain Nicholas. His wife is confined to her bed but she was blessed. Thank the Lord. Saturday 20 I rode to Bartlett's ten miles and preached to about thirty insensible people. Afterward rode to Warren's who was in distress being of a melancholy caste which is a family disorder. He is a man of understanding and in time past followed the Quakers. He was in bed in perfect health. I raised him up and after prayer he appeared better. The people are young and have no deep sense of religion here but they must have a trial. Sunday 21 I have peace of mind but fear we shall have few hearers today. It is not far from the rich and great upon James River. I read and transcribed some of Potter's church government till ten o'clock was assisted in speaking to about two hundred people who appeared very ignorant and unfeeling. After a while I gave them another sermon not very acceptable to me and perhaps less so to them. However I am clear they are warned. We then set out at four o'clock rode sixteen miles over high hills and deep valleys in the dark but came safe. Went to bed at eleven o'clock and was up at five o'clock. It is well if this will do long. I am always on the wing but it is for God. Monday 22 I labored with Brother Hill. I showed him the evil of a separation which he seems to be afraid of. Our peoples leaving the Episcopal church has occasioned the people of that church to withdraw from our preaching. I preached on Romans 8 seven through nine and had an opening. The people appeared pleased and some wept and I hoped were profited. I advised our friends to attend the Episcopal church that prejudice might be removed. Then their people will attend us. If I could stay some would attend. We suffer much by young preachers and young people yet they would do their duty if they knew it. But those that knew a little of our discipline and have been first in the work came into the notion of ordinances and neglected the direction in the minutes. Tuesday 23 I went to the great preaching house in Nansamund. It has been a storehouse and now turned into a preaching house. There were about 300 people I saw but one trifler among them and he arose and went out when I came about the consciences of the sinners. I spoke on 1 Peter 4, 18 had uncommon freedom. They appeared to be an affectionate good people. They collected me money but I took none. A man offered me a silver dollar but I could not take it lest they should say I came for money. There is a general prospect of a work. The minister, Mr. Burgess is a very respectable man and preaches the people say plain good sermons. No doubt the introduction of the ordinances by us would be offensive where there is a clergyman so worthy. I had a meeting at night at Pinners. The society came. I exhorted them to holiness and relative duties and spoke of Satan's temptations. It was a great melting. I read between preaching and the evening meeting Bishop Burnett's plain and honest account of the Earl of Rochester. It was a great thing to see such a man brought to God. A check to infidels. A confirmation of truth. I was melted and filled with God. Oh, how the Lord blesses me among these people. I have labored to get our friends well affected to the Episcopal church. What could I do better when we had not the ordinances among us? End of Section 37 Recording by Brian Keenan Section 38 of Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury, Volume 1 This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Brian Keenan Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1, Section 38 Wednesday, 24 I have peace and power and love to God. This was appointed for a rest day but one of my old friends gave out for preaching. While I have my health and God is with me, I shall never say it is enough. There is a prospect of a good work in Nansamund, Virginia, near 100 people joined in the neighborhood. Road to Phillips' 6 miles and preached to about 100 people. After preaching rode on to the widow Lane's 25 miles. Road over Blackwater through Southampton and with hard riding and some hard bad roads reached there about 9 o'clock where I slept in peace and arose early. Oh, for faith to be saved from all sin. At 12 o'clock went to preach and God was with us of a truth while I spoke upon 1 Peter 1, 7 through 12. Afterward met the society and gave the people liberty to speak. Many of them spoke and there were great meltings among them. One woman testified sanctification. I was blessed and felt more spiritual. I can speak with a full heart till tears flow. The people are more moved by my easy speaking than ever before. Blessed be the Lord. Sunday 28 Yesterday I rode to William Graves' spoke on Hebrews 4, 13 15 and had some life. There were about 30 people to hear. Met the class then rode to Robert Jones' 25 miles. Half-piece this morning but not so tender as I would always wish to be. I read a pamphlet written by Mr. Jarrett in answer to the Baptists in a dialogue and I think it is well written and ought to be published. I have had my mind tried about approaching troubles but I ought rather to mind my own business and trust all to God. Spoke at Robert Jones' on Revelations 21, 5-8. Some feared the soldiers would come to press our horses but I had faith to believe they would not and was let out much in speaking. Some wild young men kept talking till I came to that part fitted for them then they listened. I met the class they were stirred up, thirsting for full sanctification. I felt a tenderness for Brother Hartley's sister who wept for his absence. Bless the Lord who gives me to weep with them that weep. But oh what must my dear parents feel for my absence. Surely nothing in this world should keep me from them but the care of souls and nothing else could excuse me before God. I read my select scriptures, the Law, the Sermon on the Mount and the Revelation and prayed often. God was with me. Preached at Mabries they have built a new house. There was a woman sat by the desk and cried glory and praise I drink of the water of life freely. I am at the fountain. My flesh praises God. I never heard such singing in my life. I spoke with great power from Thessalonians 1 6-9 and then met society. The last day has been a high day. Was let out to speak to saints and sinners. The people spoke in society. God was with us. Some expressed their joy in the union. I wrote to booths and am kept in peace and love and have great consolation in public and private. Monday 29 Read Mr. Wesley's second volume of sermons. Wrote to Woodtuckers spoke on Hebrews 12, chapter 4. Then met society or rather gave them an exhortation. The people of the world were by and God was with us. I hope what was spoken was blessed to saint and sinner. I am kept by grace though I have been in temptation. Tuesday 30 I rose at five o'clock with peace of mind and was employed in writing letters to my friends in the peninsula. First Peter 4, 17 to about 60 people spent some time in speaking but had not as much liberty as at some other times. Spoke to the class the people spoke afterward of the goodness of God. Afterward I wrote to bushels some were gone home for fear of the horse press. Captain Bushel is dead and the work dies with him. Before I had done prayer the people were affrighted but there was no need. The officers came in and sat down. One soon tired the other could not stay it out. I spoke from first Peter 5, 10 and addressed myself according to my audience. The people were greatly alarmed. I was tempted to go back to the north there is such a commotion in the country. The troops are going to Camden, South Carolina but I must go on and meet in the way. I have been very well off but am following trouble. What matters it where I go what comes upon me if God is with me or where I live or where I die if holy and ready. Wednesday 31 I find some left the society here at the time of the division and between one thing and another it is bad times here and a sourful day with me. Road to Mr. Jarrett's and was kindly entertained. Preached in the barn to about 70 people but not so lively as when I was here four years ago. Spoke on 1 John 3, 23 had much free conversation among the people. Mr. Jarrett is as kind as formerly. Friday 2 went to White Oak and spoke on Titus 3, 2 through 5 and was blessed. Then met the society and spoke to the people. Mr. Jarrett wept and all the people at the joy of union. Saturday 3 Road to Gillam Booths had about 60 people and I spoke on Matthew 7, 21 through 23. Here Captain Benson came 12 miles to see me. Poor man I wept over him and exhorted him to seek the Lord which if he does not I fear he will never come back but his family are praying for him. I felt an uncommon love for him and I hope God will bless and keep him alive in the day of battle. 1810 Now General Benson is living in Talbot, Maryland. Sunday 4 I rode 12 miles to Mrs. Marrett's meeting-house. There were about 300 people white and black. Spoke on Romans 2, 7 through 9. After sermon I spoke to the society some of them are happy souls. But there is a slackness in meeting. The rules of the society have not been kept up here. I spoke to some select friends about slavekeeping but they could not bear it. This I know. God will plead the cause of the oppressed though it gives offence to say so here. O Lord banish the infernal spirit of slavery from thy dear Zion. Monday 5 I have peace though I am grieved at some things. It will be long I fear before the good Virginia Brethren will be brought into close discipline. Though there are many gracious people. Tuesday 6 Have peace of mind preached at Walker's Barn on Hebrews 3, 2. Met some faithful people in society. Have been reading Knox's first volume of sermons. They are sublime though not deep. I approve the spirit and principles of the man. He appears to be of the spirit of Mr. McGaw. He gives some favorable hints of restoration. That natural evil should purge out moral evil. But gave it not as his own opinion but as that of others. In another place he says perhaps the heathen world shall have an after trial. If in time it is true. So it sometimes is that if a man is a rigid Calvinist and turns he must go quite round. But general redemption and conditional salvation is the plan. I keep up prayer in public or private twelve times a day and am exercised not a little. Lord, keep me through the approaching troubles of the continent. I preached at Benjamin Johnson's had many to hear and some of the rich. Went as near the conscience as I could get. Spoke on Luke 13 23 through 25 then met society and had a melting time. The people spoke their experiences and enjoyed in the union and to see my face. Wednesday 7 Road to Rose Creek here my old friend William White would not come to hear me. Spoke on Romans 13 11 through 13 was much assisted. All the friends were moved. Here's our callus. God was with us. Thus the Lord made us to rejoice. And although there has been a falling off I hope God will revive the people and his work in this place. Road home with friend rivers and think I am more given up than ever I was in my life. I see the need of living near to God to be able to preach the travails of God's people to get freedom and love to bear with sinners I am laboring for God and my soul is pressing after full salvation. Thursday 8 In my way I call to see friend Marks and family. He is worn down with family troubles. Also call to see Mrs. Claiborne at B. Courthouse. She is under some despondency from weakness of body. Spoke at Mark Crowders on 1 Peter 1 5 through 10. The word was blessed to believers. In society some spoke of the goodness of God. In the afternoon I rode through a steep dangerous place into the river. But though it was frightful I came safe over to Wardens. Edward Drumgul is a good preacher but entangled with a family. We spoke for a plan for building houses in every circuit for preacher's wives and the society to supply their families with bread and meat. So the preachers should travel from place to place as when single. For unless something of the kind be done we shall have no preachers but young ones in a few years. They will marry and stop. Friday 9 Preached at Woolsey's Barn on Jude 20 through 22. James Morris exhorted and the people were moved very much. I rode to friend Owens had the comfort to see my Portsmouth friends and was pleased to find their faces as I unword. Saturday 10 Preached to about 60 people was blessed in speaking. Rode on to my old friend Samuel Yorkens, as kind as ever but a dissenter in heart. I spoke at the chapel with great power on Isaiah 3 10.11 Here I was taken sick, a smart fever I could get no farther was very bad on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Providence dark, my spirits much dejected. Wednesday 14 Cannot read, write, think, pray or speak much. I have such pain but I trust in the Lord. It is no matter where I die if in the Lord, I commend all to him. The more I suffer the better it will be in the end if it is for souls I labor and suffer. Thursday 15 I am better in health but have the toothache violently and am forced to use tobacco that I had laid aside. But putting this in my tooth I found some relief. Lord give me patience. I am never so holy as when traveling and preaching. I hope to set out again tomorrow. Lord give me patience under all my suffering and a happy issue out of all in thine own time. Have read as far as Isaiah in going through my Bible have but little time. I see the need of returning to my twelve times of prayer. I have been hindered and interrupted by pains and fevers. Pain is trying but I am kept from murmuring hitherto. Satan has tried me and I have had some dejection of spirit. Lord keep me every moment. Friday 16 I crossed Roanoke North Carolina felt a little better though weak. We rode near thirty miles was like to faint in the carriage but at brother Edwards felt refreshed and eased from pain. Slept well blessed be God. Saturday 17 I am in peace and much blessed always when traveling. Preached at Jones' barn to about one hundred people spoke on Hebrews 4 11 through 15 was weak but spoke long. A few felt and understood. The unawakened appeared unmoved. My discourse was not for them. I think my immediate call is to the people of God. Others seem in a hardened state. They have heard much, obeyed little. When to Mrs. Yaines an afflicted distressed woman sunk into rigid mortification thinking she ought to fast excessively. Sunday 18 I rode fifteen miles to Brother Bustians and preached to about five hundred people. Was much let out on Isaiah 55 6, 7. The people were solemnly attentive. I was tempted to think I had done well but I opposed the devil and overcame him. Brother Dickens spoke on charity very sensibly but his voice is gone. He reasons too much. Is a man of great piety great skill in learning drinks in Greek and Latin swiftly yet prays much and walks close with God. He is a gloomy countryman of mine and very diffident of himself. My health is recovered, thank the Lord. Thus he makes my strength sufficient for my day. Glory to God. Monday 19 Rose about five o'clock was a little disturbed in my rest with company. Brother Dickens drew the subscription for a Kingswood school in America. This was what came out a college in the subscription printed by Dr. Koch. Gabriel Long and Brother Bustian were the first subscribers which I hope will be for the glory of God and good of thousands. We set off in the rain, rode over Fishing Creek to Davis's ten miles. I spoke on 1 Thessalonians 1, 8, 9. Had some light but the people were very little moved. Road twelve miles to Gabriel Long's through the woods. I hope John Dickens will ever after this be a friend to me and Methodism. My health is greatly restored and blessed among my friends. Tuesday twenty. After an hour spent in prayer, private and in the family, I read a few chapters in the Bible. Began reading Watts's first volume of sermons. Was pleased and profited. Preached at noon to fifty people two, eleven through fourteen, had some liberty among the people. They were very little affected but the faithful for whom I principally spoke were tender. Then rode over to Joseph John Williams's, a rich man of this world, and I hope sincere. I am kept through mercy. Wednesday twenty one. I had to ride alone better than twelve miles to Mr. Dukes. When I came there found about thirty people and they quite fast. After preaching I took dinner and in talking found three or four of them tenderly serious, gave them advice. The man and his wife have had conviction and have sinned it away. They say it was the disputes of the Baptists that turned them aside. I then rode home with a Mr. Green, a Presbyterian, and was much blessed in reading Watts's first volume of sermons. Thursday twenty two. When I came there I spoke plainly to about eighty people and found the word was fitted to their cases. Met class it was a day of peace to me. The Lord was with me at this poor but good man's house. I was kept by the power of God. My soul is breathing after the Lord at all times. There is a hardness over the people here. They have had the gospel preached by Presbyterians, Baptists, and therefore appeared to be too much in the spirit of the world. There is life amongst some of the Methodists, and they will grow because they preach growing doctrines. I heard of Mr. Hart from Charleston, passing north, and one of the Countess of Huntington's men turning Baptist. They have soon turned about, but they may follow Mr. Whitefield in Calvinism. Friday twenty three. I have peace. The Lord was a day of fasting. I rode fifteen miles, preached prayed, and sung near two hours, ate a little about four o'clock, and preached at Nutbush Creek Chapel, a little log house about twenty five feet long and twenty wide, to about one hundred and fifty people. Here I found a broken society. Road home with Dr. King. His wife was in society. I slept in peace and rose about five o'clock. My heart is with God. Glory be to thee, O Lord. I had to mean an opinion of Carolina. It is a much better country, and the people live much better than I expected from the information given me. Saturday twenty four. Though the weather was extremely hot, I, yet weak in body, rode to Colonel Edmund Taylor's, and at the schoolhouse spoke to about seventy people on 1 Peter 4, eighteen. Afterward was kindly entertained at Colonel Taylor's. They were for ordinances here, though not heated. Sunday twenty five. Rowed six miles to the Tabernacle, about four hundred people rich and poor attended. Had very little liberty in speaking. The people very insensible. I think these people must be awakened by judgments, for it appears the gospel will not do it. I spoke near two hours to little purpose. Held a love-feast, all the friends were stirred up. Then rode eight miles, lodged over Nutbush Creek at Brother Reeves's. I am kept in peace, but felt much ashamed for my unfaithfulness. Monday twenty six. Rows early, my legs are so inflamed I cannot tell what to do. But we must bear all things. I read Watts's first volume of sermons last week, and transcribed a little of it. I preached at Turner's. He has lost the use of his limbs. I advised him to use the cold bath or electricity. Either might help him. I had liberty in the word. The hearers were stirred up. Many came to hear who do not, will not, attend the other preachers. Now the end of this may be good. For if they get their hearts affected, they will come to hear others. And by constant travelling I may do good. I had in both meetings eighty or ninety people. The circuit preachers have but about twenty. The Baptists appear to be very dead. Their own people will not attend only on Sabbath days. The people are taken away, and times are so difficult that they appear to be under a judicial hardness, having heard so much and felt so little. Tuesday is the last day of the sermon. Preached at William Price's, many came to hear. Lord, set home thy word to their hearts. Road to Haughtry, many came to hear. My text was 1 Peter 1, 5 through 13. I had great freedom, and held a love feast. The people were affected. There is the most religion here of any place in the circuit, and yet Lord threw the woods, a blind path, to a friends. I am always upon the run, though kept in peace. Was grieved to see the distress of the people. Some taken out to war, others expecting it every day. Lord, help thy people. There are many things that are painful to me, but cannot yet be removed, especially slave keeping and its attendant circumstances. The Lord will certainly hear the cries of the wicked, starving creatures. Oh, my God, think on this land. Amen. I am in peace, but have hard labor. I hope it will be for good. I expect to meet trouble, but the Lord can keep me in the greatest danger as in apparent safety. Wednesday, 28. Road to Todd's, 6 miles. I am dejected to see so little religion. I am comforted when I pray much for divine deliverances. I am badly situated and cannot go out into the woods. Have no place of retirement at some houses. I preached at Todd's to about 70 people, but very insensible. Met class, talked a little, and then gave the people liberty to speak of the goodness of God. I labored in public and hope some will take it home. Spoke from Luke 6, 46, many came to hear. I have read John Cleigat against Chubb. He writes well for a layman, but I suspect he would write as much against us whom he deems Arminians. Chubb is quite wrong. Cleigat is no way smooth and entertaining, though he has truth and argument on his side. I found here two old English folks, an old man near sixty in society, an old woman eighty-nine years natter by name, and can walk, read, sing, and pray, who was converted to God about a year ago. Oh, my God, when shall I be established in purity? Thursday, 29. Read several chapters in Isaiah. I have thought if I had two horses and Harry a colored man to go with and drive one, and meet the black people, and to spend about six months in Virginia it would be attended with a blessing. I rode to widow Pegrem's had about sixty people it being a muster day, but these were happy souls. As soon as we began to sing the power of God came over us. I spoke from 1 Peter 5, 6 through 8, then rode to Captain Burroughs's. The people in many places are but children in understanding. We have many things to say, but they cannot bear them now. I am much blessed in my own soul. I began to form a plan for myself and all the preachers for next year if we live. I am still seeking full and final salvation. I preached at Burroughs's, but fear there is very little religion in this place. I was uncomfortable. The congregation about sixty people, but they were very dead. Their minds and mouths full of the world. I came off to the widow Ellis's, and found the Lord was here. There has been a heavy rain these two nights past. If it continues it will destroy the full, ripe crops of wheat. Friday 30 Slept in peace last night. Rose with a deep sense of God. Met with Henry Jones, a serious young man, and believed he is called to the work of the ministry. I advised him to go with me. Recording by Brian Keenan.