The Journal, Part IV

But in affliction she enjoyed the Spirit’s grace, and, in May, 1834, we parted as for eternity, and I trust to meet her where parting will be no more, neither will any of us shake the parting hand, for we have had sweet communion together, in spiritual exercises. Dear reader, think not that I am going to heaven as in golden slippers, for I have various trials to encounter while travelling over this world so wide, but I feel willing to suffer for the cause of God, after which I shall (if faithful) meet many of my friends that have communed with me in the Spirit, where we never, never shall shake the parting hand—these are the consolations in affliction as described in Rev. chap. 12, 11th verse. And they overcame him by the Blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives unto death; and whilst I move my pen my soul rejoices in God my Redeemer. Having filled my mission I parted with my friends in joy. I sailed for Detroit city, 18 miles, then bid adieu to British shores, not knowing that I should ever step on them again. I was kindly received on American possessions by a respectable family from Cincinnati, a Mr. D⸺. I felt there was a work for me to do in that part of God’s vineyard. I arrived on Tuesday and on Thursday evening we had a comfortable meeting at the usual place. I met with much encouragement in laboring for the Lord, and many impressions were made on the minds of the hearers. The evening previous to my landing I saw some of the American affliction towards the people of color, such as mobbing, theft and destruction. Wo unto the inhabitants of the earth and the sea, for the Devil is come down unto you. On the following Sabbath morning, 10 o’clock, I preached again, then lead class—a soul reviving time, indeed—at 7 o’clock, P. M. I preached again, and the house was crowded to overflowing, it not being sufficient to hold the people. Text as follows: And the gospel of the kingdom shall be preached unto all the world for a witness, and then shall the end come. After which we visited a prayer meeting held by the stationed minister in the white Church, which was truly comfortable. On the next Sabbath I had an appointment made for me on the British side in a dwelling house, but, it not being sufficient to hold the people, the Episcopal Methodists opened their session-room which was larger and well crowded with various denominations. Text, 1st chap. St. John; ver. 45. The Lord touched my tongue as with a live coal from his altar, and we had a good time as from the hand of the Lord, and the Amens of the preachers, elders, and leaders, helped to swell the theme of rejoicing. Glory to God, we had all things common. But now feeling my mission ended I waited for the first opportunity and took passage for Buffalo. Three hundred and sixty miles on Lake Ontario, and, I must say, the most uncomfortable passage I ever experienced, although the boat was commodious, yet they treated the people of color very indifferently indeed, as regards their accommodation, and yet charged them a high price, I having paid $4.50. After two uncomfortable days’ and nights’ sail, we arrived at Buffalo wharf about six o’clock, A. M. Six years had elapsed since I had been in Buffalo, which was the first time, but during my absence many changes had taken place, the loss of some of my particular friends by death and other moveable causes. But I found a Mrs. Davis, who was a great friend indeed to the people of God. I felt my mission truly in this part of His vineyard—there were a few of the Episcopal Methodists, but no established society. The Baptist denomination had the majority of the people, they opened their places of worship and I preached and held prayer meetings three or four times among them, which was attended with considerable success. I also had the pleasure of meeting an anti-slavery society where I heard some very able discussions on the rights of the oppressed, and also clear demonstrations of the cruelty of the slave-holder, which was exposed with all its horror by a young man by the name of L⸺, but was greatly opposed by the Judge of the city, after which the young man arose to his feet the second time in which it seemed nothing escaped his exposure. I, about this time had written from Buffalo to Philadelphia (as it was shown me by the Spirit that my son had embraced religion) to know the fact of the matter, as I was some hundred miles from home and received the satisfactory answer by letter from his own hand, which explained his conviction—the length of the distress of his mind—the severity of which had caused him to seek opportunity to put an end to his own existence, but in the act he was told to try to pray once more, by the voice of the Spirit, which he consented to do, but concealed his intention from the people, which had been suggested by the Devil, to take his own life, and it would be all over. In this extremity it was God’s opportunity by his act of obedience to convert his soul, after bringing him to the ground like a Saul of Tarsus, and now stands as a living witness that God has power on earth to forgive sin.

O Reader, you may only imagine the joy of my heart at such language as this from my only son, whom, it seemed, God had left as a comfort to me in my old age, more especially after not having had any communication from him for eight months, and then he was very ill which made my cross seem very heavy, but I trusted in God, although I expected to hear of his death when I did hear any thing, but, on my knees at a brother and sister L⸺’s at family prayer was shown these things by revelation of Spirit, which caused me to get up off my knees and I exclaimed aloud, the Lord has converted the soul of my son, for which we had a shout around the room, and then comes the letter as a witness of the same from his own written composition. I scarcely knew how to praise the Lord enough, and for another reason when I thought that God granted what I had prayed for, from the days of his childhood, while I travelled the barren wilds, of lonesome hills, and gloomy vales. But so much for trusting in God who will not let the prayers of his people pass unnoticed, but is bound to hear and answer when they pray aright. Praise the Lord, O my soul, magnify his name.

With joy let Judah stand
On Zion’s chosen hill,
Proclaim the wonders of thy hand,
And councils of thy will.

I now began to feel my mission somewhat complete as regards distance, and therefore concluded to return towards home. A brother and his wife crossed the Lakes with me for company, I then took the cars, and bid them adieu. I remained in Rochester a while after my arrival, but, to my sorrow and surprise, a society that, twelve months previous, was large and seemed every way prosperous, had nearly dwindled away—the preacher gone and the people scattered except a resolute few, who were bound to go through, and that at the risk of their all; and to them I endeavored to fulfil my mission. I also spoke for the Wesleyan Methodists—they treated me with christian fellowship. Our Lord said, they that are for us are not against us, forbid them not—it truly was comfortable. There was seed to the sower and bread to the eater. I also stopped at Palmyra, visited the sick and otherwise endeavored to fill my mission. A little difficulty existed, relative to a slave girl being concealed and taken away, but while we were at worship the Justice of the Peace was in the house and every thing seemed quiet. After service, the congregation quietly withdrew—this was on the 6th of August. On the next day a lady of color paid for a seat for herself and me, and we took passage on to Canondagua, 16 miles; there I found a Church and people prosperous. They received me kindly—my first appointment, 11 o’clock, Sabbath morning; the word had some impressions, in the afternoon still better, at night God was his own interpreter, the hallowed fire began to run to sin’s confusion. I had several appointments through the week, which were alike prosperous. Although I felt my inability, yet the answer to a good conscience strengthened me, even in a strange land, and, with Paul, I can say I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to every one that believes. I then took stage for Geneva, having recommendations to these little towns or villages, I found a few members of the Episcopal Methodists, and also of the Presbyterian denomination; they were very friendly and opened their house to entertain me—the colored gentlemen of the vicinity around were building a house for the Travelling Missionaries to preach in; it was opened for me, and I felt great liberty in endeavoring to labour for the Lord; tears of contrition dropped freely; a sister there shewed great hospitality towards me. After filling three appointments, I left on the third day of the week. I took stage for Ithaca, having had an invitation from the Rev. H. J⸺ who had the charge. I arrived about 4 o’clock in the afternoon and was taken to Elder H. J⸺. Before I entered the town I felt, according to the movings of the Spirit, that the Lord would pour out his Spirit upon the people, for which I yet rejoice in hope of a better resurrection. We met in the unity of the Spirit and continued so with humility—the friends were kind indeed to me, in and from the noble edifices of the large conveniences, to the humble cottage of Christian inmates. But an humble heart is better than a sacrifice. The society was young but was composed of some very respectable people, and useful citizens. Congregations large, class lively, and the Spirit of God visited us in abundant measure, which made the people speak with great confidence in the Lord. Though hard toiling, yet duty makes labor light; some backsliders reclaimed, sinners converted, and believers strengthened; while many joined the Church, which was a sign of some good in the name of the holy child Jesus. After which my visit closed in peace with God, peace with all men, and the answer of a good conscience. I was next conveyed by carriage to the steamboat, and took passage for Albany. Crossing the Seneca river or lake, where passengers meet the canal boat for Albany, which was my next stopping place. I was recommended by a gentleman to the captain; took passage; and after a pleasant voyage of two days and nights, we arrived at Schenectady, and the next morning we arrived at Albany. The Rev. Mr. Williams was stationed there; I payed him a visit; the preachers generally professed a Christian Spirit. The task seemed as though laid on a Jonah; I preached twice on Sabbath day; and through the aid of Bro. S. S⸺, I was able to get to New York. Rev. R. W⸺ was one of the oldest Elders in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, who has since that fell in the battle-field, declaring war against the power of Darkness, and his bones were buried with all the honors of war. Let me live the life of the righteous and let my last end be like his. On my arrival at New York, I found the Rev. S. S⸺, Elder, stationed there; I spent three weeks in that city; I preached in Bethel; in Allen Church several times; good congregations for that part of the town, but the other was crowded. I only mention a few texts, 1st Sam. 2d chap. 6th ver.; 3d chap Hebrews, 3 first verses. Brother Jacob Matthews gave me an appointment in Zion Church, and I felt the Lord, as before mentioned, to be very close to me. The Rev. T. E⸺ gave me an appointment in Asbury Church on Sabbath night, text, 3d chap. of St. Matthew, 12th verse, which was a night long to be remembered by all present; the Lord made bare his arm; some were arrested under the power of God, and fell to the floor crying for mercy, while believers were strengthened in the faith of Christ. I also had appointments in Brooklyn, L. I.; there we were much favored with good meetings; a number of Old Methodists, with faithful preachers who kept the flock of Christ alive; and our labors were crowned with success, and additions to the Church. In the midst of life we are in death. Since I had been last at this place, previous to my tour in British America, the young gentleman that manifested such friendship for the Church by presenting it with a Bible for my appointment, had bid adieu to time and had gone to the mansions of bliss. The day previous to my arrival, I stopped at Bro. T⸺’s, one of the oldest standard families that celebrated the Church of God; his wife, a mother and sister upwards of seventy years of age; whose character was unblemished, faith firm, although afflicted, yet cheerful, with a short illness, in September, 1835, left the world in triumph. I commenced my journey for Canada, in 1832. From the second day of July to the fifteenth day of October, years following, 1833, I had preached 138 sermons, and travelled between 27 and 28 hundred miles. Returned from Brooklyn, and attended a quarterly meeting at Flushing; Bro. J. S⸺, elder in charge. Saturday evening I gave an exhortation, and preached Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock, the Lord accompanied the word, and, be it remembered, it will be either a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. Having finished my visit I felt anxious to go to Philadelphia; feeling my labors to come to a close for the present. I arrived safe at home, found my son and friends all well, and then heard the truth of his conversion, for which I yet give glory to God. I was three days in the city and left for Salem, N. J., on business; finding the doors opened to me I preached in the Church; we had a comfortable waiting upon the Lord, but no particular display of his power. After which I crossed the bay to New Castle, Del. and then proceeded to see my long lost sister; this being the second time in forty-two or forty-three years—there I found a large field of labor. Preached in a school-house by permission of Mr. S⸺, he being a man of authority, and chief owner of a large part of the town. I was also sent for to speak in Delaware—a horse and gig and dinner prepared—I was taken five or six miles, blessed with a full house and I felt the power from the upper world, and the Lord was with me. After two days visit my mind being easy, I rested, and on the third day I left for Philadelphia; finding all well, I remained for a few days, and then left for the Rev. R. R⸺’s circuit, and found him a Christian and a gentleman. I first hailed Burlington, and met the ministerial order of Brethren, who received me with joy.

The Vineyard of the Lord before the laborer lies.

We had several very good meetings; I then crossed over to Bristol and spoke once or twice in a dwelling-house, at which time the Lord verified his promises, which are, I will hearken unto. I proceeded on my journey to Trenton, which was Elder Robinson’s Circuit. Two or three days after this he arrived in the city. On Sabbath morning he preached and was much favored by the Spirit of the Lord. At night I preached and felt joy in my soul; from there he gave me other appointments. My mind was cleared and the Scriptures opened themselves to my mind and I felt strengthened; some shouted, others wept. I feel the holy influence of that fire now, while my pen makes record of the same to a dying world. Let the inhabitants of the rocks sing, and let them shout as from the top of the mountains. I preached another sermon from the 59th chap. of Isaiah, 12th verse. The fire kindled some where, and the hearty amens that ascended the hill of the Lord seemed to strike guilt to the hearts of sinners. I helped to lead class. O, the worth and value of precious souls which cause me oft to mourn. I preached again from the 22d chap. of Rev. 1st ver. The prayers of God’s people helped me, and the power of God, like the dew of heaven, was let down upon us, and the sower and reaper rejoiced together, independent of various opposition. I also spoke from Romans, 1st chap. 16th ver., and spoke three times on Sabbath day; and I felt more strength at the last appointment than I did at the first, which proves the assertion of Scripture, freely give and freely receive. I also visited the sick, after which they gave me some appointments at Princeton, a hard part of the vineyard. I had my talent and to use it I was not ashamed, although the substance seemed to be lost—full houses. The Presbyterian friends were very kind to me and received me with Christian friendship. The weather cold, and travelling hard, through wintry storms to pass. The first text, Let the dead bury the dead. It seemed a little astonishing, especially to the brethren. I continued, and on different times filling appointments. From thence to Brunswick; and one of the coldest days, rode sixteen miles; the Lord was with me, and I had great liberty of speech; a church and a large congregation; and the power of God was more fully manifest than at Princeton; and the Lord added such to the Church as, I trust, will be eternally saved. I remained there to labor for the Lord two or three weeks, and there was a general revival throughout in prayer meetings, both of male and female, and in class meetings; not my labors, reader, but the merit belongs to God alone.

Praise the Lord, ye heavens adore him;
Praise him all ye stars of light;
Sun and moon rejoice before him,
Praise him, angels in your heights.

After my return to Philadelphia in December, 1835, I saw a large field open to my view, it being a strong place, and many different spirits to contend with, I endeavored to commend this portion of sacred Writ: Job, 22d chap. 10th ver., But he knoweth the way I take; when he hath tried me I shall come forth as gold; again, Rev. 3d chap., 8th ver., and I seemed much troubled, as being measurably debarred from my own Church as regards this privilege I had been so much used to; I could scarcely tell where to go or stay in my own house. I said, Lord, where shall I go? and was directed to brother Murray, Elder then of Little Wesley Church, and when coming to his house he expressed his astonishment at my coming out through the inclemency of such weather, I paused, then told him I was sent to him and knew not for what; he said I know—then he gave me an appointment on Sunday night, and on the following Wednesday evening; from there I received an appointment at Zoar Church, by the elder, and the Lord converted one soul, which caused me still more to rejoice in God my Saviour; from that the elder of Wesley Church gave me an appointment and I preached to a large congregation, and felt strong in the cause of my God. My call seemed chiefly in Philadelphia. In the year 1835 I travelled 721 miles, and preached 692 sermons. I also spoke in Bethel Church; some false brethren. They that are not for us are against us, and if they are against God’s ministry, whether male or female, they are against God, who says I send by whom I will, for all are one in Christ Jesus. May the Lord pardon their errors, and make them be careful how they handle edged tools. In 1836 I travelled 556 miles, and preached 111 sermons; and felt under much exercise to print a book, and I had some friends to encourage me, such as the Rev. R. R⸺, and the Bishop, with others; and every circumstance was so favorable that I finally succeeded, and when they were brought home, I sat down in the house and wondered how I should dispose of them; to sell them appears too much like merchandize. While in this situation it was suggested to my mind, you must pay for them, or it will do more harm to the Gospel than if you had not printed them. But to myself, (if not printed) would be the scourge of a guilty conscience before the Lord. At 4 o’clock, P. M., my mind was directed to a Presbyterian sister, and on my way I met Bishop Allen’s widow who bought one, and that afternoon I sold one dollar and fifty cents’ worth. The Lord so blessed the offering of that work to the world, that in less than four months I paid sixty dollars through God’s assistance, for the expenses which gave me great tranquility of mind, and caused me to feel still more like wearing out in the service of God. Various are the ways through the interposition of Providence that I succeeded in disposing of that little work, viz.: camp-meetings, quarterly meetings, in the public streets, &c. Praise God for his mercies as well as his graces.

After this I started for a Camp-meeting, near Baltimore. On my arrival I received two appointments, and after the Bishop came, still more was given to me, and at one time the power of God arrested an individual and he cried aloud, fell out of the door and was reclaimed. I preached three sermons in the African M. E. Church, and God gave us souls at every meeting, and my heart rejoiced to see sinners coming to God. Notwithstanding I had my opposers I out-live them through the strength of Him, that yet loves His faithful followers. After seeing so many displays of the miraculous power of God, I returned to the city of Baltimore, with peace of conscience. After which my mind was exercised to go to Elicott’s Mills to preach in the African M. E. Church, and was accompanied by a dear sister, previously having had conversation with Bishop Walters he sent a letter to the preacher in charge, who received me with christian spirit. In the morning I led class and in the afternoon I had an appointment, and preached from the 5th Chapter of St. Luke, 18th & 19th verses. A full house, with attentive hearers,—praise God for a visitation of His Spirit. An humble groan is better than a sacrifice. At night I spoke from the 7th Chapter of Hebrews, 12th & 13th verses, and wonderful to relate, if language could, the power of feeling. And well may it be said that feeling has no fellow. On Thursday night I spoke from the 61st Chapter of Isaiah, 1st verse: And truly I was anointed. And one visible sign of the manifestation of the Spirit of God was, an aged lady was caused to cry aloud, under the distress of mind, and many more, too tedious to mention. During the whole week, I continued to visit the sick, &c. One case I here mention as a caution to those who procrastinate the day of Salvation, which is as follows. By request, I called to see a Slave-holder of a tyrannical turn, said to be very wicked. But he had received a summons, served by the officer Death, and I saw it pictured in his face; previous to which I had heard of his selling two men from their wives, recently. I asked him what he thought of dying; if he was prepared to meet the change. He told me he was not. He was very ill, could not recover, but wanted religion and could not get it; but wished me to have prayers with him. This I did, but it was of no avail, although it was truly solemn. I then exhorted him to have faith in the merits of the blood of Christ, and then left him, a repining subject for eternity.

“Don’t you see how unexpected in my chariot I do ride,
Convulsion fits, Plagues and Fevers, are the weapons by my side.”

Death.

After this, I returned to Baltimore, and from thence I was conducted to Springtown, and spoke in the morning, Sunday, 11 o’clock. Text, in Psalms. No extra display in the afternoon. Brother H. U., held forth to a very large congregation. At night I preached again. By this time there was inroads made upon the minds of the people,—they caught the Hallowed Flame, and some shouted, while others were convicted and reclaimed, and I was lifted up in Word and Doctrines of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. On Monday night I held a Prayer-meeting,—next morning I started for Baltimore, quite indisposed, but being once more restored to health, I preached on the following Sabbath night in Bethel Church, Baltimore, appointment by Bishop Walters. Text, Acts 18th Chapter, 9th & 10th verses, with special references, from Chapter 20; 19th, 20th, 21st & 22d verses. On the ensuing Wednesday night I preached again from Prophet Joel, Chapter 1st., & 1st vers. The slain of the Lord truly was many. Again I spoke from Hebrews, Chapter 7th; 12th & 13th verses, at 3 o’clock, P. M., and God’s name was glorified. I had great liberty of speech—bless the Lord. It is a good cause to live in, but better to die in. It is sweeter than life and stronger than death.

The Bishop gave me an appointment on the following Sabbath night. Text, from one of Peters’ Epistles, 5th verse. The word preached had its effect. Three persons were arrested under the power of God and felled to the floor at once. The grand-mother and her daughter and grand-daughter cried aloud for mercy. In the meanwhile a gentleman fell on his face and cried for Sanctification; and there was a general rumbling among the dry bones. Praise God, for I feel the unction from on high, while I hold my pen.

I next started for Long Green, a distance of sixteen miles. A sister I⸺ who had been travelling with me, as also brother Dunn, accompanied us. I spoke from Acts 17, verse 31. Three persons found peace, several under serious impressions. The word still had a lasting effect, and they sent for us again. We complied, accompanied by our Rev. brother; although the morning was very cold, we were blest to get there in time for Church, and by the help of God, I tried to speak to the people from these words. “Although you tread upon scorpions and serpents, they shall not hurt you, having faith.” The word went out and did not return void; for two found peace that day, and we left some on the floor mourning for redemption in Christ, while others wore deep symptoms of serious impressions for the welfare of their souls. We left at 4 o’clock in the afternoon, but the meeting continued until night. May God continue to water every plant in Zion. I preached and sold my books, and paid my own way. I returned to Philadelphia in December. After I arrived my health was much impaired, and I had a severe spell of sickness. So ended 1836.

I commenced travelling March 11th, 1837. Eight miles from Philadelphia, I preached three Sermons. Two at Blaketown, N. J., after which I took Steam-boat for St. Georges, Del., to see my sister; at the request of Doct. ⸺, he being the main proprietor of the town, I accepted an appointment and filled it. I then spent a few days with my sister, and left for Salem, N. J. Preached two Sermons on Sabbath day, two miles from Salem, and we had a good meeting,—for, where the Lord is, there is liberty. On Wednesday left for Greenwich, preached three times, and the Lord was there in power, and my soul witnessed it. From thence I proceeded to ⸺ and there truly was a revival among the people, which gave me encouragement to trust in God. From there I proceeded on to Port Elizabeth, and spoke in the Ebenezer Church, to a very large and respectable congregation from seventh chapter, Hebrews, 12th & 13th verses. On Sunday 3 o’clock, P. M., I preached at the same Church, then I proceeded six miles further and preached one Sermon to the Forgemen, and tried to give them the Gospel, but I did not feel that liberty of Spiritual fellowship as I did at many places, to see professing Christians working hard on the Sabbath at the forge, and then walk into Church, to keep the Sabbath Holy is, in my opinion, altogether out of the question. However I returned from that place the same night, and on Monday I left for Goshen, Cape May, to see my aged mother, then 78 years of age. I found her happy in the Lord, and my sister also. I preached three sermons on Cape May and left them as I found them, in the hands of God. I arrived on my return, at Port Elizabeth on the next Sabbath morning, filled an appointment both morning and night. Next morning I took stage for Philadelphia, where I arrived on June 5th, found all well. Our Conference being held in May, I concluded I must have some of the Feast. Three or four days after this I proceeded to New York, from there on to Albany, Elder Williams having charge of the Church. I preached nine sermons. Some revivals, some joined the Church, and members strengthened in the Faith of Christ. I also visited Troy, preached three Sermons there, one for a white congregation. We had a good meeting; and I was well treated by the friends. On my return to Albany I preached two sermons—and truly enjoyed myself in the Lord. I then returned to New York with an appeal to the conscience of every man, as regards my endeavors to do good,—bless the Lord. Duty makes labor light. My visit was to be accomplished in New York and Brooklyn. Rev. Wm. C. ⸺, having charge at both places, gave me appointments. Preached four sermons in New York, five in Brooklyn and two in Flushing and one in Williamsburg.

Knowing my religious visits were nearly closed for the present, I availed myself of the opportunity of visiting the different Schools, the most impressive was that of Mr. Louis Tappan, which I think exceeded all I had ever seen; the principles in different branches which had been, and in some instances, are yet hid from the people of color, to deprive them of their enjoyments, were here taught them, which greatly helped to elevate them to a position that would command respect through the short voyage of life. These are the proceeds of vital piety. “Do unto all men, as ye would they should do unto you.” Love, truly, is the fulfilment of the Law. O! may the day speedily come when the yoke of oppression shall be finally destroyed. Under a striking impulse of gratitude, and at the request of Mr. Tappan, I delivered a short address and then left the School with the answer to a good conscience. Then leaving New York, I arrived at New Brunswick, where I was kindly received. Preached three sermons; truly, the Lord was there in power. Next I proceeded to Rahway, preached four sermons, and some were added to the church. From that to Princeton, and preached four sermons. No particular display of God’s power; yet my soul rejoices in hope of the promise. “If Israel is not gathered, Jacob shall not lose his reward.” I then left for Trenton, met a Quarterly Meeting, and the Elder gave me two appointments. His labors had been very successful on his circuit. I then left for Philadelphia, and found my friends well. This being the month of November, I remained a-while in the city. I preached in Bethel Church and the Union also. Dec. 2nd I left for New-Hope, with a sister speaker. She and myself attended two churches by the permission of the Elder, R. R. ⸺. I preached five sermons before Christmas, 1st at brother S’s house, 2nd at the Mountain, and 3rd in the new church; praise God for it. “Long expected, seen at last.” The 1st text as follows: “Wisdom is justified of her children,” &c. it was a time long to be remembered. I preached the Watch-Night sermon Christmas Eve, from Matt. 2nd chap. and 10th verse, and during my stay until New-Years Eve, there was great good done in the name of the Holy Child Jesus. In travelling towards Frankford I stopped at Holmesburg for the purpose of warning some persons of approaching danger, but finding an intimate friend of mine very ill, I paid her a religious visit, which gave me much satisfaction to see her resignation unto death. I purposed leaving next morning for Frankford at 9 o’clock, but she died, and the Elder and preacher being at a far distance from there, by special request I attended the funeral, and after a short sermon at the house I had to commit the body to the earth, as no other person was present to do it. I then left for Frankford, preached four sermons which was profitable through God’s grace.

Feb’ry. 16th, I started for Attleboro. I spoke from the following passages: Romans 6th chap. 21st 22d 23d verses. Also from the 8th Chapter, 36th & 37th verses. At first it seemed like seed sown in stony ground, but the deadness began to remove, and life, light and immortality was come to pass through the preaching of the Cross of Christ. I preached one sermon in Ben-Salem, and held a prayer meeting, and the Lord smiled upon us, and truly some had in a measure lost their first love, and others who had not defiled their garments, but contended for the fulfilment of the promise. Now, coming towards Philadelphia, I found my son and my friends all well. After preaching one hundred and forty-six sermons and travelling nine hundred and ninety-nine miles.

In April, I felt impressed to visit Reading, Pa., which I did, and met some that I had met with years before, testifying that God is God, and changes not. I preached five sermons, and truly I must say that the Gospel is prevailing. Some few years previous there was not one member of church, now there is a good church and a large society. I now went to Norristown, spoke five times and led class. A man formerly lived there that played on the violin, but leaving his place of residence went to Philadelphia and embraced religion, and was called to go to the people of that town to preach the gospel to them, and the Lord blessed his labors, and they now live in hope of a better resurrection.

July 15th, 1838, I left for Westchester, preached two sermons. From there I went to Chichester, from that to the Valley, laboring as I passed along to lively congregations. On the 23d I left for Columbia, calling on Rev. S. S. ⸺, he gave me three appointments. God revived his work in the hearts of his people, and while my pen moves my heart burns with love to God. Next I left for West-town and visited some aged friends, such as could not get to the church, and two remarkable ones in particular, which were regarded as pillars of the church. I was conducted on board the canal boat for Lewistown. I had a pleasant passage, arrived at 1 or 2 o’clock, A. M. and was kindly treated by them. Preached four sermons to a hard people. I was sick during my stay, my system was much debilitated before I reached Pittsburg; however, I pressed on to Huntingdon, found a small society suffering for want of help. I was received by all the brethren, preached five sermons, rode 11 miles and spoke to the Forgemen, but through bad management the congregation was small, but the word had its effect; the souls of the redeemed are precious. I next proceeded to Hollidaysburg. Took passage by stage at night, arrived at 8 o’clock A. M. I was kindly received by a gentleman belonging to Wesley church, and entertained in a friendly manner. Preached two sermons to a comfortable congregation, and then left for Johnstown. After I got out of the car I thought it almost the last end of the world as regards accommodations. I had to stand near one hour before I could get a person to carry my trunk. The Captain was kind and offered to send me a person, but I got a man at last to take my trunk there. His wife was kind, although I introduced myself to her, knowing her to be the Barber’s wife. She sent for him to come in, and then introduced me to her husband. When he sat down he said, “you preach do you?” I try, said I. “Do you understand the Scriptures?” Some parts of it, was my answer. He appointed a meeting, and the time arrived, congregation gathered. When I commenced I felt a little confusion in the house, but in a few minutes every thing was still, and we had a solemn waiting upon the Lord; after which the Barber closed the service. So I left them. A brother informed me that the chief Magistrate of the town said we must hold another meeting and he would attend it, but the preacher did not seem to feel interested for the welfare of souls; for this cause I took passage on steam boat for Pittsburg, which was pleasant although crowded. The last day being Sabbath, I sat in serious meditation on the beauties of Creation and the plan of Redemption. There were some lady passengers from Charleston that enjoyed religion would come and sit by me to read. When about to leave, one of them requested me to pray for her husband and daughter. I hope that Elijah’s God will prosper her desire for their welfare. We arrived at Pittsburg about 8 o’clock, P. M. I was conducted to the house of a worthy Father in Israel, where I remained awhile, preached four or five sermons in Pittsburg. My mind still urging me on to Brownsville; and the Lord opened the way. The Elder of the circuit coming into Pittsburg, made a way for me, and provided me with a sister to accompany me. The Lord blessed the labors of his servants. In three months time there were one hundred and ten added to his circuit. Some converts, some mourners. Five out of one family fell in love with this Heaven-born plan, I commenced my winter journey the 10th of December. I left Pittsburg for a Quarterly Meeting at Williamsport; it was a tedious journey. We had to walk seven miles, and on entering the town we met a brother coming to meet us with a conveyance. That night the meeting commenced, and truly the battle was the Lord’s. Six were slain by his mighty power, and the faith of believers strengthened. I spoke at 11 o’clock from the 12th Chapter of Isaiah, 5th & 6th verses, and at night again, to a crowded house of well-behaved people. Elder Clemens, a successful laborer for the Lord was on this circuit. After preaching, the mourner’s bench was erected, and the slain of the Lord were many. This meeting continued two days and nights, after which our Love-feast took place. The Lord was in the midst, and the people were crying for mercy in every direction. The Wesleyan Methodists opened their church and gave me an appointment on Monday at 3 o’clock, P. M., after which the Elder gave us privilege to hold prayer meetings, which continued all night, was very successful, and a revival took place with both white and colored people, and one of the members informed me there were thirty persons added to the church that time. Praise God for the victory.

The world cannot withstand
Its ancient conqueror;
It sure must fall beneath the hand
That arms us for the war:

We then rested a few days and started for Uniontown, a female travelling with me; and we were received very kindly by Bro. Jackson and wife, and the friends generally. I preached out at the forge to an attentive people and felt both life and liberty. The Elder returning from his circuit, preached again, and five united with us in the Church, after which the Elder formed a new Society, fourteen miles distant. I then preached in the white M. E. Church to a very attentive congregation, whose groans ascended the hill of the Lord, and I felt his presence in a powerful manner—text, Isaiah lix. 1 v. On 24th of December the Elder held a watch-night, and on the 25th we started for Ridge Port again. I received the morning appointment and the Elder preached at night, and the Lord continued to pour out his Spirit upon the people, which caused a general revival. Ten joined the Church on trial. Some we left mourning for the redemption in Christ, while others seemed to be in full stretch for the Kingdom of God. I had a previous invitation to a church five miles distant on the turnpike, and I spoke in the morning at 11 o’clock, and just closed the sermon, when a gentleman came with a swift horse and vehicle on express for me to come and fill an appointment for them at 3 o’clock P. M., and accordingly went. We arrived between 2 and 3 o’clock. I met a large congregation of very respectable people, and preached from these words: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,” &c. The next Wednesday I attended an appointment in Greenfield in the old M. E. church; it was a very stormy night, and I thought from the inclemency of the weather there would be no person out; but through the perseverance of the Brother and his wife that came for me, there was quite a large congregation gathered, after which he handed me up in the pulpit, and I endeavored to preach from these words: “We have found him of whom Moses and the Prophets did write,” and I must say that the christian groans that were uttered, and the hearty Amens that ascended the hill of Zion, were answered seemingly as with coals of fire from God’s holy altar, which warmed every heart. Pray God to carry on the work.