 Section 47 of Journal of the Rev. 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 Kenan, Journal of the Rev. Francis Asbury, Volume 1, Section 47. Pennsylvania, Saturday and Sunday, 2627. Our quarterly meeting was held at Worley's near Little York. Many spoke in our love feast with great simplicity, and my spirit was refreshed among them. Thursday, 31. Preached at Martin Bohems to many people. Saturday, August 2. Indisposed and ejected. This is a barren land of religion, yet fruitful for everything else. Monday, 4. Rose early to pour out my soul to God. I want to live to him and for him, to be holy in heart, in life, and in conversation. This is my mark, my prize, my all, to be in my measure like God. Tuesday, 5. I preached on it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Having lately heard of the death of Isaac Rawlings, and having had an intimate acquaintance with him for some years, I will hear notice some of the circumstances of his life. He was born and brought up in Patapsco Neck, and when grown up was uncommonly wicked. The Methodists, about this time, coming into those parts, he professed conviction and conversion through their instrumentality. Sometime after this he began to speak in public, roughly, but I believed in sincerity. I took notice of him, and appointed him to travel on the eastern shore. There he did some good and some harm. I then sent him to Pennsylvania. It was the same thing there. Eight years ago he was sent to Virginia. The first year he did much good. Refusing, however, to take his appointment from conference, he stayed about Brunswick, causing disaffection among the people, whence sprung disorder. Thence we removed him to Pennsylvania, where he was also useful. Here he would not long remain, but went off to James City. After a considerable time we received him again, although contrary to the advice of some who knew him better. About two years passed he was appointed to Pennsylvania. This appears to have placed him where he wished to be, and he presently set about making a party and joining secrecy upon his followers. After one quarter he left us and set up for himself, and he and his few adherents took from us the forest chapel. He began now to be forsaken, and, being too lazy to ride a circuit, took to baptizing and begging by way of subscription. There were many reports about him which decency forbids to mention, which nevertheless were probably true. From these scandalous imputations on his character he felt it seems the necessity of defending himself, and, being at the Yellow Springs, he was for some hours employed in having his defense written. He did at times drink freely, but whether he was in liquor while there I know not. So it was that setting up on a meddlesome horse he had not ridden many yards before he was thrown to the ground and died on the spot. I had said I think he cannot stay long, because he did pervert the right ways of the Lord. To the Lord I leave him, desiring that his sad example may be a warning to me and all preachers of the gospel. Saturday 9 Our quarterly meeting began in Philadelphia Circuit, and was well attended. Our love-feast was spiritual, and many spoke feelingly of the goodness of God. From the quarterly meeting I went to Hoffman's in the Valley, where they are building us a new stone chapel. I spoke to them on 2 Chronicles 15, 17, Wednesday 13. Preached at F's on my way, and in the evening reached the city of Philadelphia in lowness of spirits. Saturday 16 Visited the sick, and was a little refreshed. I have constant peace with God, and my heart is dead to every unlawful pursuit. The city is all in motion, stores full of goods, great trade going on, all things prosper but religion. Sunday 17 Was a melting time to me and many others at our love-feast. Brother JB felt the power of God as soon as he came. He had been engaged some days before, and so had I. Oh, that all in the house had been so predisposed, surely it would have been a great time of the Lord's power. I preached on 2 Thessalonians 1, 6 through 8, striking a side blow at the universalist system. I made one of our sisters sick for a day. Friday 22 I have ridden about 100 miles since I left Philadelphia, and preached nine times. The weather is very warm, and the poor flesh complains. Yet I bless God for health to drag along while so many are seriously afflicted. My dear old friend, Mrs. Maddox, aged 102 last May, went into eternity about a month ago. Monday 25 Set out for New York. Arrived there, I found Brother Dickens preaching. New York, Wednesday 27 I was close in searching. A few felt it. A little of the good old spirit yet prevails among these people. We had preaching generally morning and evening, and I trust the seedsown will not all be lost. Sunday 31 In the evening I thought it necessary to put them on an examination, whether they were Christians or not. I spoke on 2 Corinthians 13, 15. I was very much let out. A power went forth, and I hoped some real good was done. Monday, September 1 Left the city and spent some time at Mr. W's in reading the additional works of Mr. Fletcher. Wednesday 3 My soul is serene. I find it expedient to spend an hour in prayer for myself alone, and an hour each morning and evening for all the preachers and people. New Jersey, Thursday 11 At Mount Holly I had more people than I expected. On Friday I wrote a long barren way to the Forks of Egg Harbor. Sunday 14 I injured myself by speaking too long and too loud. I wrote seven miles, got wet, had poor lodgings with plenty of mosquitoes. Next day, poorly as I was, I had to ride seventeen miles and spoke while I had a high fever on me. I laid me down on a plank. Hard lodging this for a sick man. Tuesday 16 Road fifteen miles could hardly preach. My subjects yesterday and today were Paul to Titus 2, 2-12, and 1 Peter 4, 18. Sunday 21 I had a wild chase, first to New England town, but their minister had warned the people against hearing us. Thence to Cohancy. Here Mr. Vanthol had appointed to preach at the same hour, although my appointment had been given out some time before. Arriving, however, before him, I preached in the courthouse and cleared out. Those who remained met with hard blows. Monday 22 In the evening at Salem, a number of friends attended and were serious. Here a few of our scattered people have attempted to build a house of worship, but found themselves too weak to accomplish it. They applied to some of the people called Quakers for assistance, who subscribed liberally. The matter was talked over as I am informed at their quarterly meeting. When it was objected that we spoke for hire, it was answered, No, it was only for a passing support. So there was consent given that friends who were free to do it might give. Delaware Passed through Philadelphia and came on Saturday the 27th to Dover, where I preached at 9 o'clock on the Sabbath day and at Barrett's Chapel at 3 o'clock. Thursday October 2 I preached at Queen Anne's, where a considerable number attended, and where many profess religion. Friday 3 Preached at A's in Kent County to a large company and was much assisted. Of late I have been greatly subject to dejection and gloominess of mind, which I have been ready to attribute to excessive exercise and the drinking of tea and coffee. I mean to quit the use of these for a season and see what effect this will produce. Maryland Saturday 11 I found some faithful people at Brother Hartley's in Talbot. Here I met with Brother G. and heard him speak with pleasure. We spent the evening together at Mr. Benson's in reading, conversation, and prayer. Sunday 12 We had about 500 people at the Bayside. I find the prejudices of the people in Talbot grow weaker, and there is some revival of religion among them. I preached on Hebrews 3, 12 through 14. One that was formerly full of pride and contempt for religion ran to the bed while I was speaking and lay there to laugh to sermon. She went home sick. I trust of a wounded conscience. I crossed the ferry to Cambridge. Wednesday 15 Met Brothers Wyatt and Cole at I.M.K.'s, and our spirits were refreshed together. I am happy, though often something unwell. I have great liberty in preaching and in prayer. I feel nothing contrary to love to God and all mankind. Bless the Lord, O my soul. Thursday 23 I enjoy much peace with God, although I am left to serve alone. But God is with me. O healthful sickness, blessed pain, if the Lord supports. I am now beside the Chesapeake Bay. Here, Calvert and Dorset lie opposite to each other. Eight years ago, when going down the bay, little thought I of the great things God was about to do for both shores. Saturday 25 Our quarterly meeting began at Cain's Barn. Our love-feast was large, powerful, and lively. We had very sensible tokens of the goodness of God. Here is a blessed work of God among a people who were once brutish and wicked. Tuesday 28 I had to hasten away to Phoebus' sixteen miles to perform the funeral rites of W. Wright, a native of Ireland. He began to preach about three years ago. Last conference he was received as a traveling preacher and appointed to an MSX circuit, where he labored very faithfully. From the best accounts we are warranted in believing that he died happy in God. We had a solemn time at our meeting, and I hope the impressions made will be lasting. I want to feel and live the holiness I preach to others. And this I might do, where I am more diligent in watchfulness and prayer. God will always help those who do all they can to help themselves. Sunday, November 2 There were few at Captain Downing's when I began to speak, but before I had done preaching we had a considerable company. Thence we returned to Melvins, where I enforced Luke 11.13 to a few people. The word was made a blessing to the woman of the house, who went with us weeping to quarterly meeting. Our love-feast was in life and power, although there were not so many and clear testimonies as endorses. Riding leisurely to Brother Farley's, I missed my road and stopped at a poor man's house. So poor that the furniture within was not, perhaps, worth twenty shillings. The woman listened to me with great attention while I spoke to her about her soul. After praying with her and her children, I pursued my journey. I bless God I have seen so much of rough and smooth that neither makes any impression of me. I know how to be abased and how to abound. Delaware I spoke at Mr. Bassett's in Dover to many people. Thence rode on to the crossroads. Here a design had been formed to prevent my preaching. And Mr. Bishop came, as I was told, to advise me to forbid resistance. Had he and another honestly discouraged those who had got together to interrupt preaching on a former occasion, resistance and forbearance would have been equally unnecessary. I rode on through the rain and darkness to Mr. Thompson's. Sunday, 23 Preached on Romans 2, 8 through 10, with some openings. Tuesday, 25 I visited some families and my soul was grieved at the backslidings of some of my old friends. O, may the Lord reach their hearts. Made a short stay in Baltimore and preached at Elk Ridge on my way to Virginia. When we reached the Potomac, Brother P.S. was unwilling to cross. So we stayed at the public house without fire, candle, or supper. And the host drunk. Next morning we crossed the river and were kindly received at Brother Bushby's. Virginia, Friday, 28 Preached to a large congregation in the courthouse at Alexandria. On my way to Fredericksburg I fell in with some gentlemen and conversed with them on the subject of religion. They sought refuge in God's foreign knowledge and thence drew their proofs that their creator would not eternally dam them. Sunday, 30 Came to Collins's in Caroline County in time to escape the rain. But the people had no notice of my coming. I enjoy peace of soul. I seek nothing but God and I feel uncommon tenderness for the people. Thursday, December 4 I preached to about thirty people at Old Father's Steadman's in King and Queen County Gloucester Circuit. Myself and the people were blessed in waiting on God. Sunday, 7 I went to Williamsburg and found the people waiting. The key of the courthouse being lost or mislaid, I stood without, and was assisted on Acts 17, 30, 31. I feel some faith that God will call out a people in this place. Thursday, 11 Went down to James River in hopes of getting an early passage across, but was detained till twelve o'clock. I spoke and prayed at Mrs. Ease. Since I last prayed in her house, one of her children, a son, has died of a consumption. He would not allow himself to speak of worldly affairs on the Sabbath day. We have good cause to believe he died in the Lord. And doubtless there are hundreds whom we know not of that thus go to God and rest from their labors. After being detained by a storm on Craney Island on Thursday, December 18, set out through a dripping rain for Portsmouth, and reached there about one o'clock. Saturday, 20 I spent the evening at Colonel Williams' in Curatec County, North Carolina, in company with brothers Ivy, Baldwin, and Morris. The work revives. Many are brought to God, and I am comforted. Sunday, 21 I suppose we had five hundred people at Cohen Jock Chapel. Monday at Whites, and Tuesday at Winfield Courthouse, I presume we had six or seven hundred people, inattentive and wild enough. I had little faith and less liberty. From this neighborhood I went to Nixonton, where numbers also attended. But I spoke with little comfort to myself. Spiritualist liquor is, and will be, a curse to this people. Wednesday, 24 Set out in the rain to Hartford Town. I spoke in a tavern. The people seemed wild and wicked altogether. I journeyed on through the damp weather, and reached Pettycruz about six o'clock. Here I received a letter from Mr. Wesley, in which he directs me to act as general assistant, and to receive no preachers from Europe that are not recommended by him, nor any in America, who will not submit to me, and to the minutes of the conference. I preached in Edenton to a gay, inattentive people. I was much pleased with Mr. Pettycruz. I heard him preach, and received the Lord Supper at his hands. Thence I crossed the Chowan River, and preached journeying through Bertie, Hartford, and Northampton counties to considerable congregations. Friday, January 2, 1784 Road to Dr. Pease After preaching here, I saw Henry Metcalf, who travels through this circuit, a man of a sorrowful spirit, and under constant heaviness. Monday, 5 A few met me at Northampton Courthouse. After preaching, we rode on through the rain to Brother Anthony Moores, where I was warm, dry, and comfortable. North Carolina I have read two volumes of sermons written by Mr. Knox of the West Indies. I am much pleased with his defense of revealed religion. And, indeed, through the whole work, there is something sublime and spiritual, so Catholic too, and free from peculiar doctrines. I esteem him as one of the best writers amongst the Presbyterians I have yet met with. Sunday, 11 I had five hearers beside the family. We then rode through rain and snow to Brother Seward's. Monday, 12 On my way to I, Malone's, my horse fell on the ice and caught my leg under him. I had some bread in my great coat side pocket that was under me in my fall, which made it worse. And I hurt my knee, too. I had presence of mind and prayed as I fell. The snow being deep saved me much from damage. I lament the love of the world, covetousness, and other evils that lie heavy on the Church of God. Tuesday, 13 I preached. Thursday, 15 After preaching at Easter's I rode to Tignall Jones's. His wife has waded through deep waters. I have spent some time in Mecklenburg circuit, but such has been the weather that I have had but few hearers. We tried to cross Stanton River at Owens Ferry, but could not for the ice. We then had a long cold ride to Coles' Ferry, and here we got over. We lodged where we had nothing to eat or drink but a little toast and water. I went shaking to bed as if I had an egg you on me. After riding some miles to Halifax Courthouse, about ten o'clock in the morning I had some coffee for my breakfast. Saturday, 31 Preached at a church and held a love-feast. My toe, which has been inflamed for some time past, is now very troublesome. Sister Martin's kindness has been a plaster for all my sores. Thursday, February 5 Rode to Guilford Quarterly Meeting, thence twenty-five miles to Shorts, and thence to Madeira's. Here my toe became so bad I was obliged to halt. I applied different poultices to take out the inflammation. Wednesday, 11 I feel much better, and hope shortly to be able to go on the Lord's work again. This is my life, my all. During my confinement I have been reading the sacred text. End of Section 47, recording by Brian Keenan. Section 48 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 Jennifer Painter. Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury, Volume 1, Section 48 Lord's Day, 15 Lord, my soul thirsteth for holiness in myself and others. I found my heart led out in prayer for those I cannot preach to. The Lord is my witness, that if my whole body, yea, every hair of my head, could labour and suffer, they should freely be given up for God and souls. During my heavy affliction, I could scarcely have met with a greater disappointment than my being unable to go to the Yadkin, but it might not be to any great purpose, and providence has hindered. By the help of a stick, I can now visit the barn and stable. The more I pray, Satan tempts the more. But this is according to custom. I hope to live the life of love and holiness below, triumphing over all my foes. Wednesday, 18 Being sent forth, I went to Mr. B's on Dan River. I have been engaged in reading Baxter's Saints Rest, and my soul was often drawn to God in secret prayer. Sunday, 22 Preached at the funeral of Absalom Bostwick's daughter. Monday, 23 Preached twice Began to fear I should stop again, my foot swelled and my toe inflamed. Tuesday, 24 Road forty miles, next day preached to fifteen people. Thursday, 26 Road to Hillsborough, the snow was deep, the street dirty, my horse sick, the people drinking and swearing. I endeavored to preach on a man's gaining the whole world, etc. Friday, 27 Brothers Allen and Jay Cromwell were with me. We took sweet counsel together and refreshed each other's bowels in the Lord. Thursday, March 4 Preached at Browder's and then hasted to the widow Kembrers. Here I was wonderfully entertained with a late publication by Silas Mercer, a Baptist preacher in which he has anathematized the whole race of kings from Saul to George III. His is republicanism run mad. Why afraid of religious establishments in these days of enlightened liberty? Silas has beaten the Pope, who only on certain occasions and for certain reasons absolved subjects from allegiance to their sovereigns. And if the nations of Europe believed the sweeping doctrines of Silas, they would be right to decapitate every crowned head and destroy every existing form of church government. If plunging baptism is the only true ordinance and there can be no true church without it, it is not quite clear that ever Christ had a church until the Baptists plunged for it. Sunday, 7 Although the day was unfavorable, many attended at Pope's Chapel where I was wonderfully assisted and enabled to be close on two Corinthians, 13, 5, a favorite subject. We had a short, simple living love feast. Monday, 8 I enlarged on Isaiah 55, 6, 7 at Pope's Chapel. This neighborhood has been poisoned by preaching anti-nominism, but I hope it will yet come to something. Thursday, 11 After preaching at Essys, we rode to Longs. I have had great times in Tar River Circuit. The congregations have been large and living more so than in any circuit I have passed through since I crossed the Potomac. Wednesday, 17 I preached at Jones's Chapel, a better house than I expected to have seen built by the Methodists in North Carolina. We then rode 15 miles to W's where we were kindly received and comfortably entertained. Thursday, April 1 After passing through Brunswick Circuit, I preached at Mr. Jarrett's Barn. Mr. Jay was very kind and the people very attentive. Virginia, Sunday, 4 Preached at Finney's Old Place where I suppose there might be some that had hardly heard preaching since I was here last year. Then I rode through Powhutton, Cumberland and Buckingham Counties where there is poor encouragement for religion. Oh, my lord, arise for thine own glory. Visit the people in mercy and make known thy power in the salvation of poor sinners. We crossed James River in a canoe. Our horses by wading and swimming got over. I found some people of feeling at T Keys to whom I preached on John 319. Thence we rode the river 17 miles along a very rude uneasy path to preach to 15 people. After getting a little cold bacon, we rode on to Seas where we fared better. Sunday 11 Preached at G's Church to perhaps 500 people. From the church we rode on to Dr. Hopkins. I could not see, feeling the hills and ales, we pushed on about 30 miles. We got in cold and fatigued about 11 o'clock. A drunken man we fell in with conducted us four or five miles. The labour of the day has been performed with little refreshment for either man or horse. Since yesterday week at noon, I have ridden 154 miles in this rough country. Arriving through the woods at Martin Keys, I found a happy change since I was here last year. Bless the lord. I will take it as an answer to prayer. Now the whole family are called together for worship. The man is seeking, the woman has found the lord and the children are serious. Saturday 17 Quarterly meeting at Brother Fry's, a living power went through the people in our love feast. It was supposed the congregation consisted of nearly or quite 700 people. I hope the word was sealed to some hearts. I do not love, live or labour as I desire. Oh my soul, stir up thyself to take hold of the Lord by diligence and faith every moment. Sunday 25 I preached at the mannequin town on the epistle to the church at Smyrna. Monday 26 rode on to Walthill's and then to Petersburg where we found a houseful at six o'clock. On Tuesday we reached Maybury's Chapel at Quarterly meeting just as preaching was over. Thursday 29 rode to Ellis Chapel in Sussex County where we held our conference the two ensuing days. Brother O'Kelly gave us a good sermon. I keep under my body and bring it into subjection, etc. Mr. Jarrett gave us a good discourse on 1 Timothy 1.4. Our business was conducted with uncommon love and unity. From this conference I proceeded on and crossed James River on my way to the north and was led to cry to God to go with us and meet us there. Thursday May 20 reached Baltimore about seven o'clock. I have ridden about fifty miles today. In crossing the Potomac, when, about midway, we turned back to meet the stage and I found Dr. Lusby. I learned by letter that my father and mother are yet alive. Tuesday 25 Our conference began all in peace. William Glen Denning has been devising a plan to lay me aside or at least to abridge my powers. Mr. Wesley's letter settled the point and all was happy. The conference rose on Friday morning. I find the spirit and conversation of those I am among still upon me. My soul is in travail to be holy in all manner of conversation and godliness. It is amazing to behold how the ice coming down the Potomac has swept the banks, cutting through large trees, removing rocks of incredible size and smoothing the river banks as though many hundreds of men had been employed for that purpose. I was solemn and blessed at Sharpsburg. A poor Irish woman who had treated the Methodists ill was convicted and sent for me to pray with her. God grant that the impressions made may be lasting. From Sharpsburg I hastened on to Shepardstown where the Lord set home his word. Came to Sister Boydstones, one of the kindest women in Virginia. Here all things were comfortable. I was sleepy, weary and feeble, but my body and soul were refreshed. Thanks be to God for every friend. I covenanted with God to be more in prayer. My soul is humbled before the Lord. Thursday June 17 Lord, strengthen my resolution to be thine in heart more and more. Make and keep me always watching unto prayer. I preached at Martinsburg to a hundred people or more and was led out while I enlarged on what is the Almighty that we should serve Him, etc. Thence to Strouds at seven o'clock and spoke with great plainness. The people stared upon us. Next morning we had all the workmen to prayer. The mother and two daughters appeared tender and wept when we took our leave of them. Who knows what God may do for them? Sunday 20 I attempted to preach at Newtown. I raged and threatened the people and was afraid it was spleen. I found, however, that Mr Otterbein, a worthy German minister, had done the same a little time before. Friday 25 We had hard work in crossing a mountain six miles over and it was still worse the next day in crossing the greater mountain. I found it very warm work though stripped. We struggled along nevertheless and met with about 400 people at Straders to whom I spoke on two Corinthians 13.5. I hope not in vain. While I was at prayer a large limb fell from a sycamore tree in the midst of the people yet not one received the least injury. Some thought it was a trick of the devil and so indeed it might have been. Perhaps he wanted to kill another who spoke after me with great power. Sunday 27 At Glank I was much tried in spirit yet I was enabled to speak pure living truth on Titus 3, 2 to 5 at 3 o'clock. I was assisted to speak feeling words to some souls at Van Meadows though in pain and weariness. Thence I hasted to preach at 6 o'clock at Hoffman's a third time this day when I enlarged upon Job 21, 15. About 10 o'clock at night I came to Brother Dew's very weary and lodged there. I hope this day's labour will be useful to my own soul and the souls of others. Virginia Monday 28 Preached twice speaker and hearer's too dull alas. Tuesday 29 Although my body is weak my soul is filled with love to God he is my portion. Wednesday 30 I had freedom of spirit and utterance at Jay Cressapp's to a large congregation and although still weak in body I preached again at Barrett's in the evening. Thursday July 1 we began to ascend the Allegheny directing our course towards Redstone. We passed the Little Meadows keeping the route of Braddock's Road for about 22 miles along a rough pathway arriving at a small house and halting for the night we had literally to lie as thick as three in a bed. My soul has peace for three days I had a fever the excessive labour I have undergone may have nourished it. When I rose yesterday morning I was very unwell. After riding about seven miles I was taken with a trembling and profuse perspiration. I had something and felt better and my fever is now abated. My soul has been blessed in an uncommon degree and thou my soul bless the Lord and owe that he may be pleased to make me a blessing to the people in this part of the world. Friday 2 I was amongst a dull kind people. I spoke closely and perhaps laboured much in vain. Here are some of Luster's disciples. This man set up prayer meetings and preached for 25 pounds per annum. He left his people because they would not increase his salary. Sunday 4 at Cheat River we had a mixed congregation of sinners, Presbyterians, Baptists and it may be of saints. I had liberty and gave it to them as the Lord gave it to me plain enough. After me Brother Boone spoke with life and power. I think God will bring a people to himself in this place. Blessed be the name of the Lord for a plentiful rain after a long drought. Three thick on the floor such is our lodging but no matter God is with us. Labor is rest and pain is sweet whilst thou my God art here. Pennsylvania Wednesday 7 we had nearly 700 people at Beeson Tower. They were in general serious and attentive. Thursday 8 I preached at Dees to a wild people on Acts 1326. Since last Friday we have ridden 160 or more miles on rough roads through a rough country and with rough fare. I trust our labor will not all be lost. Tuesday 13 I preached to many people at Old Town where they are bound in intemperance. Wednesday 14 I preached at Bath. I was shut up. Maryland Sunday 18 I preached in the new Market House at Frederickton. Many attended both from town and country. Wednesday 21 We had many to hear at Winchester. They appeared to be orderly and solemn and I hope it will appear that some were convicted. Sunday 25 I preached at Ristus Town on Take heed that the light which is in you be not darkness. Tuesday 27 We had about 30 people and a poor time at Rock Chapel. We came to Squire Ems a kind inquiring man who received and entertained us hospitably. Saturday 31 I praise God for health of body peace of mind and a desire to be holiness to the Lord. I am led into a deep and sweet union with God. My mind was solemn at the Love Feast and the people appeared to be stirred up. I was very searching on Luke 1811 and there was some move. Then I hasted to Worlies where I found about 150 people waiting for me. I want to be very spiritual. Seeing that it is by continual prayer alone this state is to be attained. I will endeavor to watch there unto with all perseverance. Richard Williams on the north branch of the Potomac was taken prisoner by the Indians. It may be satisfactory to many to record in this journal his own account of the wonderful deliverances he experienced and the extraordinary combinations of providences by which he was restored to his family. A few days before Braddock's defeat 19 Indians beset the house killed his father, his mother and one of his brother's sons. Williams and his child they secured as prisoners and took them away to Fort Pitt now Pittsburgh tying his hands to a tree every night to prevent his escape. The child he fed with wild cherries or soysberries but it was taken from him at the fort. On the day of Braddock's defeat he was taken across the Ohio River and guarded to Detroit where he found the garrison reduced to the extremity of eating horse flesh. After staying some time at Detroit he made his escape taking with him a Frenchman's gun and ammunition and pushed homeward first by curved lines and then in a more straight direction. The Indians pursued and headed him which obliged him to alter his course. Wading through a deep stream the water went over his head and wet his powder. For three days he traveled on until being pressed by hunger he stopped to dry his wet powder but on examination he found it all dissolved away. His next shift was to dig sars-parilla for sustenance. He went on and by good fortune found a fish which a bird had dropped and ate that. Continuing on he came to a large river where he saw two canoe loads of Indians pass. From these he hid himself. The Indians being out of sight he made a raft of two logs and by this contrivance gained the opposite shore. After this he was three days without eating or drinking and reduced to extreme suffering. He saw an Indian and escaped him and came to a stream of water of which he drank and soon after a plum tree some of the fruit of which he took along with him. The day following he fared something better having found part of a fawn which he roasted picking the bones and the marrow and carefully preserving the meat for future need. After all the venison was eaten on each succeeding day for three days he found a squirrel. He afterwards caught and ate a pole cat at another time he saw a hawk fly up and going to the spot he found a wild turkey. Travelling on he came to the Ohio and waded it. Near this place an Indian threw a tomahawk at him. He tried to escape by climbing up a wild cherry tree but found himself too weak and he fell into the hands of two Frenchmen and five Indians and thus found himself once more in the power of his enemies. With these he feigned derangement. They however took him along with them to Fort Pitt on the way he tired and they threatened to kill him. He told them he was willing to die. Arriving at the fort an Indian charged him with being a prisoner from Detroit. He was forthwith put under a guard and a council held in the French language to determine what was to be done with him. The sentence of the general was that he should be shot. To this some objected saying that his spirit would haunt them if he was killed there and advised his being taken to the island and buried in the sand. He was told that he should eat no more meat there that the crickets should eat him. He behaved himself as though he understood nothing they said yet he knew the general purport of their conversation. Although they spoke in French. He relates that one morning before day while in the fort he fell into a trance. He beheld spirits for his conductors and lightning also. The guards being both asleep he climbed up the high wall and clambering over the spike palisades got out safe. Having still to pass the sentinels and not knowing where they were placed he was discovered just as the cock crew for day. The sentinels mistook him for a comrade and let him pass. At this time he felt a conviction that his wife prayed for him and this was communicated in an unusual manner. And she, during his absence had great comfort and an assurance that she should see her husband again. Escaping thus he made the best of his way without interruption until the evening when he heard a gunfire some distance behind him. Presently another. These were his pursuers who had found his track in the woods. He strove to run but he was too weak. Another gun yet nire to him went off. He made what way his strength would allow and when he came to places where he left no track he made zigzag courses to deceive them and give him time to get ahead. But there were so many of them they would still discover his track again. Thus he struggled on until seven guns were fired the last of which he supposed to have been within two or three hundred yards from him. Now his heart began to fail and he thought he was gone. Yet he resolved to labour onward as long as he had life. At the firing of the last gun his pursuers crossed his track and got ahead of him. Taking advantage of this circumstance he turned out of the path letting the Indians who were behind tread in the footsteps of those before. Following the direction now taken he had not gone far until he came to a path which led to a settlement of the Whites. This he did not long keep but going round the head of the ravine laid himself down concluding that if his track was again discovered he would be favoured by the darkness. The Indians did get his track twice but never overtook him. He went on in the dark as well as he could sometimes feeling the bushes with his hands. Among the rocks he often fell down from weakness. Having gained smoother ground he stopped and lay down until day. His enemies it seems had not given up the pursuit. He had not long left his hard lodgings when he heard the report of two guns but coming to a hill where no mark of a footstep could be traced he steered his course for Bedford and came on a trading path in which he kept. Five days he lived on acorns. Afterward he found some wild cherries but lo while he was eating up comes an Indian. The Indian asked him where he was going he said to the Delaware the Indian then took him by the hand and gave a whoop when presently others joined him by these he was kept a prisoner for some time. He appeared bold was active in cooking and by his cleverness got the favor of the captain who praised him and said he could do everything like an Indian he had more than he needed to eat. The captain however was very careful to secure him every night by making him lie down in one corner. Here he drew a cord over some hoop poles and tied deer's hoofs to the end so that if Williams pulled open the poles they would rattle and the deer's hoofs would strike the captain's face. With these Indians Williams stayed a long time. They went to war and left him to provide deer for the scores. At last he found an opportunity of escaping which he improved and arrived safe at his own home. He is now a faithful man his wife a pious woman and they have preaching at the house. Our quarterly meeting in Philadelphia circuit began the 21st of July. I addressed the congregation on the epistle to the Church of Sardis. We had a gracious time on Sunday the 1st of August. At four o'clock I preached again in the Valley Church on Isaiah 66 1 Heaven is my throne and the earth my footstool. Monday August 2 after preaching at Brother H's on Luke 11 13 I went to the city and preached to many people on 1 Peter 3 15. Friday 6 I was blessed in preaching on blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted. I was weak and faint from the extreme warmth of the weather. Sunday 15 I was very weak and had to lie down on the floor. However, although faint I was unable to speak to nearly a thousand people in Philadelphia. New Jersey Monday 16 went to Burlington. Tuesday 17 went to Trenton although unwell and greatly oppressed by heat I preached at both these places. Tuesday 24 I rode to Mr. Ogden's next day I spoke but with little freedom to an attentive yet unfeeling audience in Sussex courthouse. My host who appears to be a man of liberal sentiments entertained me kindly. I preached at New Market Plains to about 100 heroes. I spoke freely in vindication of Methodism. It was strange for I knew not until afterward that there were present those who had come at no other time. New York Friday 27 we had a trying journey to New York the weather being excessively warm. I found my old friends C and WL at Newark who appeared pleased to see me. We took the stage and reached York about eight o'clock. At York we found the people alive to God. There are about 100 in society and with those in Philadelphia to my mind appear more like Methodists than I have ever yet seen them. My first discourse was for the benefit of poor stragglers who have not yet returned to the fold. The subject chosen was Revelations 3 1 to 4. Sunday 29 in the evening I preached for the benefit of poor sinners on Job 21 15 Monday 30 my soul is alive to God. I visited, prayed, read, wrote, met the classes and in the evening preached. I have found great consolation and fellowship in the classes. Monday, September 6 I took leave of my dear friends in New York. They showed their love indeed and in truth liberally supplying me with what was necessary. On Tuesday Brother Haggerty met me and we rejoiced together. End of section 48 Section 49 of the Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1 This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in a public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Greg Davis Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury Volume 1 Section 49 September 12, 1784 to February 7, 1785 New Jersey Sunday the 12th Preached at Penny Hill and afterward at New Mills I have been kept in peace but find my adversary is not dead. Neither am I out of the body or what I may be or must be before I see the kingdom of God. O my soul keep near to God and always watch and pray. Monday the 13th I was weak and feverish sorely tempted and much comforted. I walked over to John Buds a son of affliction. We spoke of the dealings of God with our own souls not in vain. We prayed and parted in love. Two things seemed to dim my prospects of heaven in point of qualification. First, I do not speak enough of God and secondly, I am not totally devoted to him. Lord help me come up to my duty. Sunday the 19th I spoke at PCs and at God trees in the evening. I cannot sufficiently praise God for health while others are sick and almost every house. I have felt great nearness to God for a few days past. Tuesday the 21st I was tried when I missed my way but I was blessed in speaking to the people. It is a great time of sickness with the adieu of fever. Thursday the 23rd I found a dearth at Haddonfield. A poor sought came in and muttered a while. After meeting he acknowledged he was a sinner and seemed sorry for his conduct drunk as he was. Saturday the 25th I was weary and faint as I journeyed towards Philadelphia. After preaching twice in the day I was refreshed by a glass of wine and a piece of bread. Delaware Saturday October 2nd I preached in our new chapel at Dover in the state of Delaware on Faith Hope Charity. At Barnetts I believed I was alarming on Isaiah 3, 10 and 11. I was moved in the evening towards the boys to school at seas. I spoke till they wept aloud. Oh my God, their parents fear thee. Bring them home with them to thyself. Maryland Thursday the 7th I rode in the afternoon to Queen Anne's visited and prayed with B. Ellis in affliction and was persuaded God would spare him. Poor F is overtaken by the adversary and R is going astray. Alas, how are the mighty fallen? Friday the 8th came to Angiers. Here they had the flux but I did not feel free to leave the house until I had delivered my message. My testimony was low but serious and weighty. Wednesday the 13th At Hoppers the congregation was large indeed. I was greatly at liberty and I hoped the seed was not all lost. Here I met with brother Garrison all love and peace. Thursday the 14th I rode 20 miles to visit Kent Island for the first time. Here he had an unusual collection of people and surely all was not in vain. We had a good time at Newcombs. The word of God was greatly triumphed over the prejudices of rich and poor. We went on to Cambridge. Here George a poor Negro in our society we found under sentence of death for theft committed before he became a Methodist. He appeared to be much given up to God. He was reprieved under the gallows. A merchant, her cursed Negro for praying, died in horror. I pity the poor slaves O that God would look down on mercy and take their cause in hand. Wednesday the 20th I was distressed by the levity of some spirits. We had a long ride to Taylor's Island. We had a profitable season there and next day going 24 miles to Todd's I found a warm people indeed. I injured myself by speaking too loud. Saturday the 23rd rode 30 miles to Mr. Aries. Preaching by the way he had a great time, multitudes attended. Dorset is now in peace and the furies are still. Sunday the 24th This day has been so much taken up that I had no time to spare. My mind is with the Lord and every day is a Sabbath with me. Here BT who was a great churchman after hearing FG a second time was seized by conviction on his way home and fell down on the road and spent great part of the night crying to God for mercy. It was suggested to him that his house was in fire. His answer was it is better for me to lose my house than my soul. Virginia Sunday the 31st We rose early and rode 20 miles to Downing's I lectured at Burton's in the evening. Monday November the 1st After riding 20 miles to Colonel Paramore's I preached with liberty. The family is kind The father, mother, son and niece have tender impressions. The people hear about are gay blind and spiritual matters well featured and hospitable and good livers. Tuesday the 2nd After preaching at Garrett's chapel I rode to Colonel Burton's and was kindly received. Friday the 5th I came back to Colonel Burton's since they went from his house I have written about 100 miles spent five hours delivering five public discourses and 10 hours in family and public prayer and read 200 pages in Young's works. I've enjoyed great peace and hope to see a great and glorious work. The Presbyterians came down here about 30 years ago many were moved and some advances were made towards a reformation. A house was built for public worship about six years past the Baptist visited these parts and there was some stir among the people. I think the Methodists are most likely to have permanent success because the inhabitants are generally Episcopalians. We preached some time before any regular circuit was formed or any people had joined us. Now Brother Willis is stationed here and there are 100 in society. The land here is low and level and is refreshed with fine breezes from the sea. There is an abundance in the productions of the earth and of the waters. The people are generous, social and polished in their manners. Saturday the 6th came to Downing's and had a large congregation for the time and place. I see a difficulty in saying anything of any denomination of people. It is so much like evil speaking to mention their faults behind their backs. I will avoid it and endeavor to prevent others doing it in my presence. Maryland Sunday the 7th I rode 12 miles to Snow Hill. Here the judge himself opened the courthouse and a large congregation of people of different denominations attended. The subject was a certainty, universality and justice of God's proceeding at the day of judgment. Sunday the 14th I came to Barrett's Chapel. Here to my great joy I met these dear men of God, Dr. Koch and Richard Whatcote. We were greatly comforted together. The doctor preached on Christ, our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption. Having had no opportunity of conversing with them before public worship, I was greatly surprised to see Brother Whatcote assist by taking the cup in the administration of the sacrament. I was shocked when first informed of the intention of these my brethren in coming to this country. It may be of God. My decision then was if the preachers unanimously choose me, I shall not act in the capacity I have hitherto done by Mr. Wesley's appointment. The design of organizing the Methodists into an independent Episcopal church was open to the preachers present and I was agreed to call a general conference to meet at Baltimore the ensuing Christmas as also that Brother Gerritsen's go off to Virginia to give notice thereof to our brethren in the south. Delaware I was very desirous the doctor should go upon the track I had just been over which you accordingly did. I came to Dover and preached on Ephesians 5-6 was close and I hope profitable. Maryland Tuesday the 16th rode to Bohemia where I met with Thomas Vassie who came over with the doctor in our Whatcote my soul is deeply engaged with God to know his will in this new business. Wednesday the 17th rode to quarterly meeting at Deer Creek thence to Dr. Goff's to Baltimore I preached in the evening to a solemn people on oh wicked man thou shalt surely die about the ending of the sermon the floor of the house gave way but no injury followed. Tuesday the 23rd we rode 20 miles to Frederick quarterly meeting where Brother Vassie preached on the Lord is my shepherd I shall not want. Our love fest was attended with the power and presence of God leaving Frederick I went to Calvert quarterly meeting brother Pythrus and myself had much talk about the new plan at our quarterly meeting we had a good time the love fest was in great life and power I admire the work of God among the colored people in these parts. Friday the 26th I observed this day as a day of fasting and prayer that I might know the will of God in the matters that are shortly to come before our conference. The preachers and people seem to be much pleased with the projected plan I myself am led to think it is of the Lord. I am not tickled with the honor to be gained I see danger in the way my soul waits upon God oh that He has led us in the way we should go. Part of my time is and must necessarily be taken up with preparing for the conference. Tuesday the 30th I preached with enlargement to rich and poor on that we may have boldness in a day of judgment. The Lord has done great things for these people. The Reverend M. W. and myself had an interesting conversation on the subject of the Episcopal mode of church government. I spent the evening with D. Weems and spoke to the black people. Saturday December 4th rode to Baltimore and preached on Mark 14 29 and 30 with freedom. I spent some time in town was greatly grieved at the bareness of the people they appear to be swallowed up with the cares of the world. Sunday the 12th at the point my heart was made to feel for the people while enlarged on blessed are the pure in heart etc. I was close and fervent in town at four o'clock. A young man pushed the door open while we were meeting the society. He was carried before a justice of the peace and committed to jail but he was bailed out. Tuesday the 14th I met Dr. Koch at Abingdon. Mr. Richard Dallam kindly taking him there in his coach. He preached on he that hath the son hath life. We talked of our concerns in great love. Wednesday the 15th my soul was much blessed at the communion where I believe all were more or less engaged with God. I feel it is necessary daily to give up my own will. The doctor preached a great sermon on he that love father or mother more than me. Saturday the 18th spent the day at Perry Hill partly in preparing for conference. My intervals of time I passed in reading the third volume of the British Armenian magazine continued at Perry Hill until Friday the 24th. We then rode to Baltimore where we met a few preachers it was agreed to form ourselves into a Episcopal church and to have superintendents, elders and deacons. When the conference so seated Dr. Coke and myself were unanimously elected to the superintendency of the church and my ordination followed after being previously ordained deacon and elder as by the following certificate may be seen. Know all men by these presence that I Thomas Coke doctor of civil law late of Jesus College in the University of Oxford Presbytery of the Church of England and superintendent of the Methodist Episcopal church in America under the protection of Almighty God and with a single eye to his glory by the imposition of my hands and prayer being assisted by two ordained elders did on the 25th day of this month December set apart Francis Asbury for the office of a deacon in the aforesaid Methodist Episcopal church and also on the 26th day of the said month did by the imposition of my hands and prayer being assisted by the said elders set apart the said Francis Asbury for the office of elder in the said Methodist Episcopal church and on this 27th day of the said month being the day of that date thereof by the imposition of my hand and prayer being assisted by the said elders set apart and said Francis Asbury for the office of the superintendent in the said Methodist Episcopal church a man whom I judge to be well qualified for that great work and I do hereby recommend him to all whom it may concern as a fit person to preside over the flock of Christ in testimony whereof I have here to set my hand and seal this 27th day of December in the year of our Lord 1784 Thomas Cook 12 elders were elected and solemnly set apart to serve a society in the United States one for Antigua and two for Nova Scotia we sent the whole week in conference debating freely and determining all things by majority of votes the doctor preached every day at noon and some one of the other preachers morning and evening we were in great haste and did much business in the little time Monday, January 3rd, 1785 the conference is risen and I have now a little time for rest in the evening I preached in Ephesians 3.8 being the first sermon after my ordination my mind was unsettled and I was but low in my own testimony Tuesday the 4th I was engaged preparing for my journey southward rode 50 miles through frost and snow to Fairfax, Virginia and got in about seven o'clock Virginia Thursday the 6th we had an exceedingly cold ride to Prince William little less than 40 miles and were nearly two hours after night and getting to Brother Hale's Friday the 7th I had a calm day I had Brother Hickson for my companion he passed Fort Quirk Courthouse came to the north branch of Rapa Hauneck which we found about waist high and frozen from side to side we pushed the ice out of the track which a wagon well for us had made and got over safe pursuing our journey we came to a little ordinary kept by one whitehead here were some wagoners at cards in the front room this did not prevent us having prayers in the one adjourning we slept in peace and had only nine shillings and six pence to pay in the morning Saturday the 8th rode to Brother Fry's to dinner where I met with Brother Willis who had stopped there on his way to the conference Sunday the 9th we read prayers, preached ordained Brother Willis deacon and baptized some children I feel nothing but love I'm sometimes afraid of being led to think something more of myself in my new station than formerly Tuesday the 11th in the morning I discovered that my horse was very lame after some time we grew better the adversary tries to get me into a fretful spirit our journey was attended with some difficulties but I do not murmur I had dreaded the ice and James River but were crossed with the greatest ease we directed our course to Stanton River and here we waited some time at Hunt's Landing Mr. Hunt was so kind to insist on our staying with him and we were tired enough to want rest I lectured in his family night and morning Saturday the 15th I preached and administered the sacrament at Reister's Church then rode to Brother Phillips where I was pointed on Revelation 1714 Sunday the 16th although there was only a probability of my coming a few people met at Dobb's store where I preached with some life on John 3 19 to 21 Tuesday the 18th Brother Willis was ordained elder at Carter's Church the Lord was with us in this the sacrament and the love fest and all was in life North Carolina Thursday the 20th my horse was lame I rode with patience to A. Arnett's and was blessed we rejoiced in the Lord together Friday the 21st after preaching at Thompson's and baptizing some children we set out for shorts traveling onward we came to a creek it was so dark by this time that we could not find the Ford we rode back a mile and engaged a young man who undertook to be our guide but he himself was scarcely able to keep the way we rode with great pain to Wagner's Chapel and after pushing on through deep streams I had only nine hearers this was owing to the carelessness of the person who should have published the notice of our coming Saturday the 23rd I had about a hundred hearers to whom I spoke of Joshua 24 15 we lodged with FC who was very kind although he could afford but one bed for three the horses fared well next morning we set off and came to Old Town instead of Salem by the evening we reached Brother Hills on the Yadkin circuit thus far the Lord has led me on and I'll still hope to get along according to appointment Friday the 28th my horse being unfit to travel I borrowed another and went on 17 miles to Fisher's River where I met with a few poor people thence we rode through the barren mountains and crossed the frequent rivers in our course and came to W's next day I preached at Heddy's and rode on to Hindern's in Wilkes County here we were kindly entertained although there were few people to preach to nothing could have better pleased our old church folks than a late step we had taken in administering the ordinances to the Catholic Presbyterians it also gives satisfaction but the Baptists are discontented Thursday, February 3rd rode 20 miles to Witherspoons here was a large assemblage of people some to pay and receive taxes some to drink and some to hear me preach I gave them a rough talk on Revelations 2.5-8 from this place we rode to Allen's the people here are famous for talking about religion and here and there is a horse thief Sunday the 6th yesterday some were prevented from offering their children to God by baptism by a zealous Baptist today brother Willis spoke on the right of infants to baptism our opposer soon took his leave Monday the 7th I preached at Ellsbury's and rode 21 miles to Morgan Brian's the weather has been cold and uncomfortable I have ridden on the horse I borrowed nearly 300 miles in about nine days end of section 49 read by Greg Davis section 50 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 Greg Davis Journal of the Reverend Francis Asbury volume 1 section 50 February 8th through October 26th 1785 Tuesday the 8th I observed this as a day of abstinence I preached and administered the sacrament held a love feast our friends were greatly comforted here I plunged for adults at their own request they being persuaded that this was the most proper mode of baptizing Thursday the 10th rode to Salisbury whereas it was court time I had but few hearers and some of these made their escape when I began to insist on the necessity of holiness a subject this which the antinomians do not like to hear pressed too closely Tuesday the 15th I gave up my horse and borrowed one of Mr. Randall I fear my horse will lose his eyes I visited B one who has departed from God he appeared to be sensible of and lamented it yet he said he had no power to pray and seek South Carolina Thursday the 17th we set off for Charleston South Carolina one at the Chiro Hills we thought of going to blanks but he was not at home a family which had moved from Virginia sent after me with an invitation to come and dine I accepted their kindness and arriving found that they had been Methodists after spending some time in the church in prayer we prepared to pursue our journey but being pressed to stay until the moral we remained with them came to the Long Bluff courthouse found few people thence journeying on we arrived at I Kimbrows and were kindly entertained Tuesday the 22nd I heard of that imposter T blank Y blank T who was fleecing the people of 100 Guinnings per annum were he a good man I doubt if they were supplied him thus the greatest consolation I had was whilst alone in the woods I was comfortable in Brother Lee's company Wednesday the 23rd we crossed Lynch's Creek Black Mingo and Black River and arrived in Georgetown where we met with a kind reception I felt my mind solemn and devoted to God but was in great doubt of success if God has not called us by this Providence into these parts I desire and pray that we may have no countenance from the people although we have ridden four or 500 miles and spent our money Thursday the 24th I preached in Georgetown on 1st Corinthians 214 to a serious people a Mr. Wayne a nephew of the celebrated General Wayne introduced himself to us with whom we took breakfast on parting he showed us the way to the ferry and paid our ferries I found the Lord had brought him through deep exercises of soul we traveled on through a barren country in all respects towards Charleston we came that evening to Scots where the people seemed to be merry they soon became mute we talked and prayed with them and in the morning when we took our leave of them they would receive nothing we met Brother Willis he had gone along before us and had made an acquaintance with Mr. Wells a respectable merchant of the city to whom we had carried letters of introduction from Mr. Wayne of Georgetown I jogged on, dejected in spirit and came to Mr. Wells we obtained the use of an old meeting house belonging to the General Baptist in which they had ceased to preach Brother Willis preached at noon Brother Lee morning and evening I first went to the Episcopal Church and then to the independent meeting house at this last I heard a good discourse Monday the 28th the Calvinists who are the only people in Charleston who appear to have any sense of religion seemed to be alarmed yesterday morning and again at noon the congregations were small at night we were crowded there is a great dearth of religion here some say never more so than at this time the people were a little moved while Brother Lee preached to them on Sabbath evening my first sermon was on Wednesday the 2nd of March on 2nd Corinthians 520 I had but little enlargement I preached again the next day on Ecclesiastes 11-9 the people were solemn and attentive I find there are here who oppose us I leave the Lord to look to his own cause I told my hearers that I expected to stay in a city but seven days that I should preach every night if they would favor me with their company and that I should speak on subjects of primary importance to their souls and explain the essential doctrines taught and held by the Methodists Friday March 4th I gave them a discourse on the nature of conviction for sin from John 16-8 many serious people attended and some appeared to feel Saturday the 5th I spoke on the nature and necessity of repentance the blank ministers who had before this held meetings at the same hour with us and had represented our principles in an unfavorable light and striven to pre-possess the people's minds against our doctrines even these ministers came to hear this afternoon Mr. Wells began to feel conviction my soul praise the Lord for this fruit of our labors this answer to prayers Sunday the 6th I had but few hearers this morning these few appeared to have feeling hearts in the evening I preached to a large wild company on Acts 17 30 and 31 my soul is in deep travail for Mr. Wells I hope God will set him at liberty the sore throat and scarlet fever prevail in this city yet are the inhabitants vain and wicked to a proverb I bless God for health Wednesday the 9th I had a good time in Matthew 7 7 in the evening the clouds about Mr. Wells began to disperse in the morning he could rejoice in the Lord how great is the work of God once a sinner yesterday a seeker and now his adopted child now we know that God hath brought us here and have a hope that there will be a glorious work among the people at least among the Africans Thursday the 10th this day I delivered my last discourse on 1st Peter 3 15 I loved and pity the people and left some under gracious impressions we took our leave and had the satisfaction of observing that Mrs. Wells appeared to be very sensibly affected we had rough crossing in going over the bay to Hadrill's Point I baptized two children at Mr. S's for which I was offered a great reward but it was my persons who had not known that neither my own feeling nor the constitution of our church permitted me to receive any compensation for such services so we reached Georgetown time enough to give notice for preaching in the evening Sunday the 13th the people generally attended and were serious we found Mrs. Wayne under deep distress of soul from Georgetown we came to King's Tree and got to Mr. Durant's who I had heard was a Methodist we found him in sentiment one of Mr. Herbie's disciples but not in the enjoyment of religion I delivered my own soul before I took my leave of him hearing a brother Daniel at Town Creek I resolved to make a push for his house it was 40 miles distance and I did not start until 9 o'clock I dined at Lockwood's Folly and got in about 7 o'clock oh how happy I was to be received in my dear friends to receive me I have been out for 6 weeks and ridden near 500 miles among strangers to me to God and to the power of religion how could I live in a world if there were no Christians in it North Carolina Saturday the 19th after preaching at Town Creek I wrote in the evening to Wilmington night came on before we reached there and from the badness of the causeway I ran some risk we went to blanks but he was not prepared to receive us afterward to blanks where we had Mary singing drunken raftsman to their merriment I soon put a stop I felt the power of the devil here Sunday the 20th the bell went around to give notice and I preached to a large congregation when I had done, behold, F Hill came into the room powdered off with a number of fine ladies and gentlemen as I could not get my horse and bags I heard him out I barely believed his sermon was his own it was so much like his conversation I came away well satisfied that I had delivered my own soul Monday the 21st on my way I stopped at A's and baptized some children the poor mother held out a piece of gold to me this is the pay of the priests here for such service Lord keep me from the love of honor, money, and ease Wednesday the 23rd I had a few hearers at the Lake Chapel there has been much injury done here to the cause of religion by some who promise much in this way and perform little I lodged near the Wakama Lake which is seven miles in circumference fed by several streams running through the adjacent marshes and surrounded nearly on all sides by a sandy beach this is a desert country has few inhabitants and fewer still have some deep sense of religion Tuesday the 29th rode to Elizabeth town crossing the northeast branch of Cape Fear river I called at S's and offered baptism to his sick wife which she declined accepting after I came away she was distressed by her refusal and sent her son four miles after me myself and my horse were both weary but I returned and had a solemn time Wednesday April the 6th I preached at Swansbury inside of the sea here are a wicked people indeed nevertheless a few have joined society Monday the 11th preached in a courthouse at Kingston I was entertained very kindly by Governor Caswell Tuesday the 19th preached at the Cyprus Chapel and had many people to hear I met Dr. Koch at G Hills that evening here we held our conference in great peace Monday the 25th I rode to Dr. Peets this man has given up family and private prayer and yet is in distress about his soul Tuesday the 26th I preached at Bridge Creek Chapel I was very ill and was tempted to think the Lord was about to lay me aside or take me away and detain Dr. Koch in America Virginia Saturday the 30th I am much better in health my sickness was made a blessing to me rode to W. Mason's where we were to meet in conference I found the minds of the people greatly agitated with our rules against slavery and a proposed petition to the General Assembly for the emancipation of the blacks Colonel Blank and Dr. Koch disputed on the subject and the Colonel used some threats next day brother O'Kelly let fly at them and they were made angry enough we however came off with whole bones and our business in conference was finished in peace Thursday May 5th at R. Jones I found a blessing in my labor spent the evening with W. Graves I am weak in body but I have a constant sense of the presence of God rode to Lane's Chapel where I found a serious loving people Sunday the 8th rode to Ellis's Chapel read prayers and preached it appears to be low times here I was happy with brother Nichols and Spartleys in the evening Monday the 9th set off for Jones City came to James River and missed the home where the ferryman's day I was detained some time before I found them Tuesday the 10th had a large congregation at Chip Homney Church I administered the sacraments to a number of communicants and we had a very gracious season Thursday the 12th rode to York lately the seat of war here Lord Cornwellis surrendered to the combined armies of America and France the inhabitants are desolute and careless I preached to a few serious women at one o'clock and at the desire of the ladies again at four o'clock I came to Mrs. Rose the son was once on our side he has left us and now we have the mother I lodged in the poor house Saturday the 14th I directed my course for Urbania I was apprehensive of a gust while crossing the Rappahonic but I reached the other side in safety lodging with Colonel Gordon and Captain Owings I waited on Colonel Carter a Baptist a man of most excellent spirit we had much free conversation on the subject of religion churches and slavery we crossed the Potomac at Hose Ferry and found the people vulgarly wicked drinking and swearing we paid a dollar for our carriage and left them perhaps the providence of God led me this way that I might see and learn to pity the state of the people in the northern neck of Virginia and those also of Charles in St. Mary's counties in Maryland I have been sensibly affected with their situation Maryland Thursday the 19th preached at Childs and at Weems at which last place they were building a chapel I hasted on to Annapolis but through neglect the people had no notice of my coming Brother Gill was here a few weeks past when one S, a barber, came to mock and it was said, stood up to preach and said his sins were forgiven he was soon seized with sickness and made a sudden exit here we will leave him Sunday the 22nd notwithstanding it rained many attended of both rich and poor but in the afternoon the wind or the rain kept the gentry away many of the common people heard gladly from Annapolis we rode to Alexandria to meet Dr. Koch he did not come however until the next day Thursday the 26th we waited on General Washington who received us very politely and gave us his opinion against slavery Friday the 27th we returned to Annapolis the doctor preached at 6 o'clock to a crowded congregation thence passed through Baltimore we came to Mr. Goff's Monday the 30th we went to Abingdon to settle our college business and took a bond for the conveyance of the ground we then returned and fixed our plan for the approaching conference Wednesday, June 1st our conference began I was unwell during the session a blister running applied for a pain in my breast on Thursday the doctor took his leave of America for this visit we parted with heavy hearts on Friday we rested from our labors and had a love feast Saturday the 4th I spent three hours profitably in reading the printed minutes of the conference I left Baltimore at 3 o'clock to take a little breath after such a press of business Sunday the 5th I rode to Abingdon to preach the foundation sermon of Cokesbury College I stood on the ground where the building is to be erected warm as it was and spoke from Psalms 78, 4 through 8 I had liberty in speaking and faith to believe the work would go on Monday the 6th from Abingdon I returned to Perry Hall and there continued until Friday Saturday the 11th preached in Baltimore on you know not what manner of spirit you are of in the town I spoke three times and at the point once Friday the 17th preached at the Garrison Church to a dull backsliding people Friday the 24th I crossed the mountains to Sharpsburg and preached to some honest Germans came on to Shepherd's Town Tuesday the 28th rode to the springs called Bath now under great improvement I preached in the playhouse and lodged under the same roof with the actors some folks who would not hear me in their own neighborhood made now a part of my audience both night and morning leaving Bath I came to Brother Dews on the south branch of the Potomac very unwell Sunday July 3rd the day was rainy nevertheless I preached administered the sacrament and baptized some children Saturday the 9th rode to Dewitt's where I had many to hear and some to have their children baptized Sunday the 10th my congregation was large hard labor has almost overdone me I rode to Essays where I found some life among the people a long dreary ride brought us to Morgantown I preached and baptized and was much spent Thursday the 14th I was taken with an inflammation in my throat I preached at Colonel Martin's afterward I went on in the night and very unwell to Seton's Friday the 15th I had a high fever I however bore up to ride 8 miles and preached and baptized Saturday the 16th rode to Litton's but could not preach Tuesday the 19th came to Bessentown gave an exhortation and rode on to Blanks Thursday the 21st went to Mr. Jacobs old town he and his wife appear to be much engaged Sunday the 24th as an appointment was made for me today I read prayers and preached with some pain and to little purpose Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday very unwell with a relapse of an inflammatory complaint in the throat for some time I could get no relief honey a remedy so excellent in such cases was not to be had meantime I ate with pain and was called to the exercise of patience Virginia Thursday the 28th being in a good degree recovered I felt thankful my spirit is grieved a so much vanity as is seen here in Bath by the many poor careless sinners around me the living is expensive four dollars per week Captain Blank is here raised almost from the grave I felt tenderly for him I hope God will convert his soul Sunday the 31st Mr. Keith gave us a sermon very legal and too little purpose in the afternoon I gave them my last discourse on Romans 1 16 Maryland Monday August 1st Road 30 miles I was almost spent I ate a little and was glad to get to bed Tuesday the 2nd I felt better the weather is very warm Wednesday the 3rd I rode 50 miles I felt weary but better in health Thursday the 4th reached Baltimore our friends here have bought a lot and are building a new chapel there on 70 by 46 feet it is well fixed for entrances and light Sunday the 7th from preaching so frequently in the evening and consequent exposure to night air I have suffered a relapse and the inflammation of my throat has returned to this was added a bilious lax so that I was laid up at Mr. Goff's until Saturday the 20th instant during my stay Mrs. Chamber has departed this life and is gone I trust to Abraham's bosom it has been a school of affliction to me but I am thankful that in my suffering I had a skillful physician and constant attendance from my kind nurses and I was in a house where prayer was want to be made I have been taught the necessity of walking more holy and humbly with God to pray more fervently and to preach more faithfully Sunday the 21st I was just able to perform the funeral rites of Mrs. Chamber I preached to about 1,000 people and had a very serious time Tuesday the 23rd I set off very weak for Philadelphia and reached there on Thursday the 25th Pennsylvania Sunday the 28th preached a sacramental sermon on Romans 832 our congregation was large in the evening to whom I enlarge on Joshua 2419 New York Wednesday the 31st reached New York and preached the three following days although weak in body and languid in spirit Sunday September 4th notwithstanding I was very unwell I preached thrice, read prayers twice and held a love feast my flesh went heavily along our society here has increased in number and grace our congregations also grow larger I feel deeper desires to be given up to God my friends here have been liberal indeed in supplying my temporal needs may they be abundantly rewarded in spirituals Wednesday the 7th after preaching this morning I left the city overstaying the hour the stage left us and we found ourselves under the necessity of walking six miles I dined with Mrs. Ogden and preached in Elizabeth town in the unfinished church belonging to the Presbyterians New Jersey Friday the 9th heard Mr. Woodall preach a funeral discourse on Lord thou hast made my days as a hand breath in my judgment he spoke well Saturday the 10th I had liberty in preaching to the people at Monmouth on Joshua 24 17 and felt much for the souls present Saturday the 17th quarterly meeting at Marles River our house was not quite covered and it was falling weather the people nevertheless stayed to hear me preach afterward brother a and brother L spoke to them Sunday the 18th we had a great time the people spoke freely of the dealings of God with their souls Wednesday the 21st rode to brother F's I received my wagon for 44 pounds will it not bring me into trouble in traveling and in getting horses Saturday the 24th preached at Salem and at Stowe Creek with some consolation many attended although it rained and we had a comfortable time at Sacrament I plunged HT and SM in Salem Creek this unusual baptismal ceremony might perhaps have made our congregation larger than it would otherwise have been Lord help me to keep on under all troubles of body and mind from Salem we proceeded on 30 miles through a great storm we were glad to stop at Gloucester where we had a room to ourselves enjoying our Christian privileges and were comfortable next morning we came on to Cooper's Ferry and although the wind blew violently in the morning when we came to the ferry all was calm we breakfasted in Philadelphia early enough for church Pennsylvania Monday the 26th set out for the south and arrived in Chester next day preached at Mathsons arriving in Wilmington I preached there on James 1 27th Delaware Friday the 30th at Blackstone's Chapel I felt the necessity of watching against the spirit of politics and of being more in the spirit of prayer the people's minds are agitated with the approaching election of delegates to the assembly October the 1st came to Dover I had the courthouse full of people but I was not in possession of liberty of mind or strength of body to preach the election is not yet over Monday the 3rd we had a gracious season at the sacrament in Perthens that evening I rode to Brother White's and was closely occupied with temperals Maryland Saturday the 8th we had an open time and the souls of the people were stirred up at Angers the Lord was also with us at Wharton's Chapel in the afternoon Sunday the 9th I preached at Kent Old Chapel on ye have said it is vain to serve God in the afternoon and at night in Charleston I always have an enlargement in preaching in this very wicked place the people today were very serious and attentive Monday the 10th came to Bees there was a spirit of life among the people and my own soul felt comfortably some of our principal members here are men who have not been successful had they prospered in their pursuits perhaps they never would have sought the Lord being now in possession of religion there is the less of danger in prosperity I therefore counsel them to go to the Western country where the means and rearing of families and advancing in the world were more within the reach of the inhabitants October 24th set off for Brother White's for Dorset Circuit I preached at Brother Frazier's in the evening after visiting the societies in this quarter I came on Saturday to Caroline Quarterly Meeting at the Widow Haskins here we had a gracious season rode to Dover Quarterly Meeting I brethren preached and exhorted and I administered the sacrament Wednesday the 26th I preached on Caleb's following the Lord fully I left Dover and felt some pain in parting with my friends End of Section 50 Recording by Greg Davis