CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY GIFT OF PROFESSOR PAUL W. GATES Bv.^.c iiRT^J J'"'*"«"X Library BX8495.D74 A31 184§ liiiiir ^^ 3 1924 029 471 814 The original of tliis book is in tlie Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924029471814 The Morning of lAfe is gone — We Ve Journeying to that Land LORENZO DOW— Agbb 39— (1816.) The Evening shades appear! From whence there 's no return ! PEGGY DOW— Aged 35. HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE: OR THE WHITINGS OF HEY. LORENZO DOW: CONTAINING HIS EXPERIENCE AND TRAVELS, IN EUROPE AND AMERICA, UP TO NEAR HIS FIFTIETH YEAR. ALSO, HIS POLEMIC WRITINGS. TO WHICH IS ADDED, THE "JOURNEY OF LIFE," BY PEGGY DOW. REVISED AND CORRECTED WITH NOTES. Sixth Edition— Averaging 4000 Each. PUBLISHED BY JOSHUA MARTIN & ALEX. S. ROBERTSON, CINCINNATI. 1849. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1848, BY JOSHUA MARTIN, In the Clerk's Office for the District Court of Ohio, Stereotyped by John B. Wolff, WheeUng, Ta. INDEX. Lorenzo's journal. PAGE. Chapter I — My childhood, . - - _ - 9 " II — A call to preach, - - - - - 19 " III — Beginning to travel, ----- 26 " IV — Admittance on trial, - - - - - 56 " V— Dublin Eeception, -' - - - - 78 " VI — Smallpox Confinement, - - - - - 96 " VII — Eeturn to America, - . - . . 114 " VIII— Georgia Tour, - 121 " IX— Keturn to New England, - - - - 158 " X — Return to Georgia, ---.-_ 155 " XI — Carolinas and Tennessee Tour, - . - 172 " XI I-^ Visit through Virginia, 185 " XIII— Return to New England, - - - - 204 " XIV— Marriage, 209 " XV— Tour to the Mississippi, - - - - 213 " XVI— Return to the North, 219 " XVII— Tour through New England, - - - 232 "XVIII— Journey to North Carolina, - - - - 240 " XIX — Second visit to Europe,, - . - . 253 " XX — A short account of " Eccentric Cosmopolite," 304 " XXI— Continuation of " " 315 " XXII— Conclusion of Journal, - - - 324 Lorenzo's Chain, ------- 350 Reflections on Matrimony, ------ 399 Analects upon Natural, Social, and Moral Philosophy, - -419 Journey from Babylon to Jerusalem, - - - ' - 471 A dialogue between the Curious and Singular - - - 511 Hints on the fulfilment 'of Prophecy, - - - - 525 Strictures on Church Government, &c., - - - - 543 On the Ministry; ------- 559 A Cry From the Wilderness, ------ 560 Analectic Miscellany, ------ 555 Spiritual Songs, -------- 573 Defence of Camp Meetings, ----- 583 Vicissitudes, or the Journey of Life, . - - - 605 Supplementary Reflections to the Journey of Life - - 663 Lorenzo's Address, - - - - - - -711 The Yankee Priest, - ... 713 Appendix, - - ... 717 INTRODUCTION. Apologies ate common introductions; thfey are almost always out of place, but especially so in books. If they are worth printing or reading, they need no such palliatives. None is offered for the present work. A careful perusal of its pages will satisfy the candid that it is a treasure too valuable to be lost. Therefore a benefit is conferred and no apology is necessary. . Though the author of the following work has passed away, his char- acter was so indelibly engraved upon the age in which he lived, that a transcript seems to have been impressed upon the present generation. — Who has not heard of Lorenzo Dow? Who that has heard of him has not felt an anxiety to see — to hear him speak? Who that is fond of the adventurous, the heroic, the marvellous, the morally sublime, would not rejoice to possess from the hands of this illustrious personage, an au- thentic account of his birth, training, conviction, conversion, call to preach, with all the vicissitudes, hair breadth escapes, miraculous deliv- erances, wrought out for him by a superintending Providence. Here it is then, at least in part, for all was not written. But here is enough to demonstrate that they who fear God shall not be confounded. Much of the eccentricity of the author was the result of necessity, es- pecially that part belonging to his costume — much of it was his consti- tutional make; and some was no doubt designed, and intended to con- duce to the great object of his life. The lectures on Church Government and the Rights of Man, evince a mind deeply imbued with the spirit of Democracy, as it should be manifested in Church and State, called forth by the wrongs which he suffered, and saw others suffer from the want of proper civil and reli- gious organizations. He saw, as others see, that there was still some- thing lacking in the present condition of society, and forcibly pointed out the great duties and privileges of man. The "Analects upon the Rights of Man" are a luminous and yet con- cise exhibition of the different relations of life, and the duties and privi- leges of each and ail. The truths and principles presented are funda- mental — truths and principles which must be adopted ani acted on vl INTRODUCTION. before our world can become what its author designed. True, they are at war with the present order of things; but this order [cofifusion] must be subverted, before the blessings of life will be equalized and the reign of righteousness commence. The sooner these sentiments gain universal prevalence and credence, the better. The "strictures on Church Government," are a little caustic. But when we remember that the clergy are the savor of Life and Death al- ternately — that through them corruption and schism, have been introdu- ced, as well as reform: that at this very time there is great lack of unity and vitality in the ministry and membership; that power ecclesiastic and civil tends to accumulate in the hands of the few, and consequently to abuse, it becomes necessary not only to recur to first principles, but to expose the abuse of that power. The power to govern in the Church exists somewhere; but where, and to what extent it is lawful h* says not; but only speaks of its abuse and the necessity of guaranteeing to all their natural and inalienable rights. And while it is remembered that he was badly treated by some, he had many strong friends in the church, for whom he had a warm affection, and of whose kindness he speaks in the highest terms. When we consider that his whole life was one of privation and toil, that he lived for others and not. for himself; that he was defrauded and slandered; that through all he held fast his integrity to the last, we can throw the mantle of charity, which covers a multitude of faults, over those few things which do not so well accord with our notions of right. He lived to be fifty seven years old, thirty-nine of which he spent in the gospel Ministry. The following account of the author, taken from the Cyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, contains all that need be said on this subject: — "Lorenzo Dow was a well known itinerant preacher. He was one of the most remarkable men of this age, for his zeal and labor in the cause of religion, t e was a native of Coventry, Connecticut, and in early life became deeply impressed by the truths of religion, and felt urged by motives irresistable, to devote his life to the preaching of the gospel in various parts of the world. His eccentric dress and style of preach- ing, attracted great attention," while his shrewdness, and quick discern- ment of character, gave him no inconsiderable influence over the multi- tudes that attended on his ministry. He travelled extensively in Eng- land and Ireland, and repeatedly visited almost every portion of the United Stat23. He had been a public preacher for more than thirty years, auo It is probable that more persons have heard the gospel from his lips, than INTRODUCTION. Txi any other individual since the days of Whitefield. He wrote several books, particularly a history of his own life, so singularly eventful, and full of vicissitudes. His purity of purpose, and integrity and benevo- lence of character, can hardly be questioned. He was a Methodist in principle, and though not in connection with that society, was held Si esteem by many of that body. He died in Georgetown, District of Co- lumbia, February 2nd, 1834. A wanderer through life, it is believed h« was a sincere Christian pilgrim, seeking a heavenly country, and that he now rests in the city of God." "'The Journey of Life,'' appended to the works of Lorenzo, holds up to our view at once, two persons singularly adapted to each other, enjoy- ing life in its highest sQpse, in the midst of the greatest disadvantages. Had the case never occurred, we would have supposed it impossible to find a woman willing to unite her destiny to a man so eccentric, so poor, so much a stranger and pilgrim. But 'tis even so. Read this Journey. — Many of you are travelling it; you will find much to reprove — ^much to comfort. Some of you have arrived near its termination. Here you can review the past, awaken reflection, and bring your sympathies again into active being. THE PUBLISHER. N. B. It is due the reader, that he be infoimed that the anecdotes, Sc, found in small type, at the end of several chapters, were added by the publishers, to give interest to the work, and are in substance believed to be genuine. CHAPTER I. MY CHILDHOOD. I was born, October 16, 1777, in Coventry, Tolland County State of Connecticut, North America. My parents were born in the same town and descended from English ancestors. They had a son, and then three daughters, older than myself, and one daughter younger; they were very tender toward their children, and endeav- ored to educate them well, both in religion, and common learning. When I was two years old, I was taken sick; my parents having been a long journey, and returning homewards, heard that I was dead, and expected to meet the people returning from the funeral. — But to their joy I was living, and recovered. When I was near four years old, while at play, I suddenly fell into a muse about God, and heaven and hell, about which I had heard so much, so that I forgot my play, which my companion ob- serving, desired to know the cause; I asked him if he ever said his prayers; he replied "no;" then said I, you are wicked, and I will not play with you; so I left him and went into the house. Being a few days in another neighborhood, I associated with one that would swear and lie, which proved harm to me; but these serious impressions continued until my eighth year, when my parents remov- ed to another vicinity, the youth of which were very corrupt; and on joining their company, I too soon learned their ways, grieved the tender feelings of my mind, and began to promise myself felicity, when I should arrive at manhood. After I had arrived at the age of twelve years, my hopes of world- ly pleasure were greatly blasted by an illness, occasioned by over- heating myself, and drinking a quantity of cold water. I mur- mured and complained, thinking my lot harder than my compaia- ions'; for they enjoyed health, whilst I was troubled with an astfe ■ matical disorder, or stoppage of breath. O the pain that I endured! Sometimes I could lie several nights together and sleep sound, and at others, I had to sit up part or all night. At times I could 10 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE, not lie down at all for six or seven days together — but as yet did not consider tliat the hand of God was in all this. About this time I dreamed that I saw the prophet Nathan, in a large assembly of peo- ijle, prophecying many things. I asked him how long I should uve. Said he, until you are twO-and-twenty. This dream was so , imprinted in my mind, that it caused many serious and painful hours at intervals. When past the age of thirteen years, and about the time that John Wesley died, ( 1791 ) it pleased God to awaken my mind by a dream o-f the night, which was, that an old man came to me at mid day, having a staff in his hand, and said he to me, do you ever pray? I told him, no. Said he, you must, and then went away; he had not been long gone before he returned, and said again, do you pray? I again said, no; and after his departure I went out of doors and was taken up by a whirlwind above the skies. At length I saw through a mist of darkness and across a gulf, a glorious place, in which was a throne of ivory, overlaid with gold, and God sitting upon it, and Jesus at his right hand, and angels and glorified spirits celebrating praise. I thought the angel Gabriel came to the verge of heaven with a trumpet in his right hand, and cried to me with a loud voice to know if I desired to get there. I told him I did.— Said he, return to earth, be faithful, and you shall come in the end. With reluctance I left the beautiful sight, and hastened back; and then 1 thought the old man came to me the third time, and inquired if I prayed. I told him I did. Then said he, be faithful, and I will come and let you know again. I thought that was to be when I should be blest; and when I awoke behold it was a dream. It was strongly impressed on me, that this dream must be from God — and the way that I should know it, I should let my father know of it at such a time, and place, viz: as he would be feeding the cattle in the morning, which I did; and no sooner had I done, than convic- tion seized me. I knew my unfitness to die. Tears began to flow, and I again resolved to seek salvation. I began that day to pray in secret, but how to pray, or what to pray for, I scarcely knew. I at once broke off from my old companions and evil practices. If I now had any one to instruct me in the way and plan oi salvation, I could have got along, but alas! I soon felt myself in the OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 11 dark without a guide. The Bible was like a sealed book, so mys- terious I could not understand it. But in order to have it explained, I applied to this person, and that book, but got no satisfaction. I fre- .quently wished I had lived in the days of the prophets or apostles, that I could have sure guides; for by the misconduct of professors, I thought there were no Bible saints in the land. Thus did many months of sorrow roll heavily away. But at length, not finding what my soul desired, I began to exam- ine the cause mpre closely, if possible to find it out; and immedi- ately the doctrine of unconditional reprobation and particular elec- tion, was exhibited to my view; that the state of all was unalterably fixed by God's "eternal decrees." Here discouragements arose, and I began to slacken my hand by degrees; tintil I entirely left ofi secret prayer, and could not bear to read, ok- hear the Scriptures, saying, if God has fore-ordained whatever comes to pass, then all our labors are vain. Feeling still condemnation in my breast, I concluded myself rep- robated: despair of mercy arose, hope was fled; and I was resolved to end my wretched life; concludihg the longer 1 live, the more sin I shall commit, and the greater my punishment will be; but the shorter my life, the less sin, and of course the less punishment, and the sooner I shall know the worst of my case; accordingly I loaded a gun, and Withdrew to a wilderness. As I was about to put my intention into execution, a sudden sol- emn thought darted into my mind, "stop and consider what you are about; if you end your life, you are undone forever; but if you omit it a few days longer, it may be that something will turn up in your favor." This was attended with a small degree of hope, that if I waited a little while, it should not be altogethev in vain; and I thought I felt thankful that God prevented me from sending my soul to everlasting misery. About this time there was much talk about ths people called Methodists, who were lately come into the western part of New England. There were various reports an^ opinions concerning them, some saying that they were the deceivers that were to come in the last times; that such a delusive spirit attended them, that it was dangerous to hear them preach, lest they should lead people out of the good old way, which they had been brought up in; that they 12 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, would deceive if possible the very elect; some on the other hand said they were a good sort of people. A certain man invited Hope Hull to come to his own. town, who appointed a time when he would endeavor, if possible, to comply with his request. The day arrived, and the people flocked out from every quarter to hear, as they supposed, a new gospel: and I went to the door and looked in to see a Methodist; but to my surprise he appeared like other men. I heard him preach from — "this is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." And I thought he told me All that ever I did. The next day he preached from these words: "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no Physician there? Why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered? Jer. viii, 22. As he drew the analogy between a person sick of a consumption and a sin-sick soul, be endeavored also to show how the real balm of Gilead would heal the consumption; and to spiritualize it, in the blood of Christ healing the soul; in which he described the way to heaven, and pointed out the way marks; which I had never heard described so clearly before. By which means I was convinced that this man enjoyed something that I was destitute of, consequently that he was a servant of God. He then got upon the application, and pointing his finger towards me, made this expression: "Sinner there is a frowning Providence above your head, and a burning hell beneath your feet, and nothing but the brittle thread of life prevents your soul from falling into endless perdition. But, says the sinner, what must I do? You must pray. But I can't pray. If you don't pray then you'll be damned; and, as he brought out the last expression, he either stamp- ed with his foot on the box on which he stood, or smote with his hand upon the bible, which both together came home like a dagger to my heart. I had liked to have fallen backwards from my seat, but saved myself by catching hold of ray cousin who sat by my side, and I durst not stir for some time for fear, lest I should tumble into hell. My sins, and the damnable nature of them, were in a moment exhibited to my view, and I was convinced that I was un- prepared to die. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. After the assembly was dismissed, I went out of doors ; all na- ture seemed to wear a gloomy aspect ; and every thing I ca^ my eyes upon seemed to bend itself against me, and wish me off the face of the earth. ^ I went to a funeral of one of my acquaintance the same dayj but durst not look on the corpse, for fear of becoming one myself; I durst not go near the grave, fearing lest I should fall in and the earth come in upon me; for if I then died, I knew I must be undone. — So I went home with a heavy heart. I durst not close my eyes in sleep, until I first attempted to suppli- cate the throne of grace for preservation during the night. The next morning, as I went out of doors, a woman passing by told me that my cousins the evening past, had found the pardoningr love of God. This surprised me, to think that one of my companions was taken, and I was left. I instantly came to * resolution to for- sake my sins and seek the salvation of ny soul. I made it my practice to pray thrice in a day for about tte space, of a week; when another of my cousins, brother to the fprmer, was brought to cry for mercy, in secret retirement in a garden, and his cries were so loud that he was heard upwards of a n^le. The same evening he found comfort. Shortly after, several persons in the neighborhood professed to have foiHid the pardoning love of God, among whom was my brother-in-law. Fish, and his brother. • Sorrows arose in my mind to think they were heavenward, whilst I, a guilty one, was in the downward road; I endeavored to double and treble my diligence in prayer, but found no comfort to my soul. Here the doctrine of unconditional reprobation was again pre- sented to my view, with strong temptations to end this mortal life ; but th# thought again arose in my mind ; if I comply, I am un- done for ever, and if I continue crying to God, lean but be damned Sit last. ■ One evening there being, (by my desire ) a prayer-meeting ap- pointed by the yoting converts, I set out to go ; and on my way, by the side of a wood, I kneeled down and made a solemn promise to God, if he would pardon my sins, and give me an evidence of my acceptance, that I would forsake all those things, wherein I had 14 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE formerly thought to have taken my happiness, and lead a religious iife devoted to him; and with this promise I went to meeting. I believe that many present "felt the power of God; saints were happy and sinners were weeping on every side; but I could not shed a tiar; then I thought within myself, if I could weep I would begin to take hope; but, oh! how hard is ttiy heart. I went from one to another to know if there was any mercy for me. The young con- verts answered: "God is all love; he is all mercy;" I replied^ "God is just too, and justice will cut me down;" I saw noway how God could be just and yet show me mercy. • " A certajn woman bound upon a journey, tarried at this house that night; discovering the distress of mind I was in, broke through the cvowd with a hymn-book in her hand, and after reading a part cf a hymn, said to me: "My friend, I feel for ■you; ray heart ach&s for you; but this I can tell you, that before I leave town in the rnorning, you will come down here praising God;" I told her no; I bdieved I should be in hell before morning. After the meeting had co^ijuded, which was. about nine o'clock, and previous to the foregoing cHpumstance, I had, by the advice of my parents, set out for home thrict, but by a strong impression, as it were a voice whispering to my heart, "you must not go yet; but go back and pray to God;" I turned about and went into a wheat field, and kneeled down; and striving to pray, I felt as if the heavens were brass, and the earth iron; it seemed as tjit>ugh my prayers did not go higher than my he,ad. At length I durst not go home alone, fearing I should be carried away by the devil, for I saw destruction before me. Several of the young converts accompanied me on my way; one of whom was Roger Searle; they since hare told me thjt I fell down several times by the way; which I do not remember, as my distress was so great that I scarcely knew what position I was in. When I got home, I went into my bed-room, and kneeling down, strove to look to God for mercy again, but found no comfort. I then lay down to rest, but durst not close my eyes in sleep, for fear I should never awake until I awakened in endlesa misery. I strove to plead with God for mercy, for several hours, as a man would plead for his life; until at length being weary in body, as OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 15 the night was far spent, I fell into a dumber; and in it I dreamed that two devils entered the room, each with a chain in bis hand; they laid hold on me, the one at my head, the other at my feet, and bound me fast, and breaking out the window, carried me ^ distan'ce from the house, and kid me on a spot of ice, and whilst the weal^r devil flew off in flames of fire, the stronger one set out to carry me down to hell. And when I got within sight of hell, to see the blue blazes ascending, and to hear the screeches and groans of devils and damned spirits, what a shock it gave me I cannot describe; I thought that in a few moments, this must be my unhappy lot. I can- not bear the thought, I will struggle and strive to break these chains; „ and if I can, and get away, it will be gain, and if I cannot, there will be nothing lost, and in my struggle I waked up; and oh! how glad was I that it. was only a dream. Still I thought, that within a few hours it would surely be my case. I again strove to lift my heart to God for mercy; and these words struck my mind; "In that day there shall be a fountain ppened to the house of David, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sins and for uncleanness." A thought darted into my mind that the fountain was Christ; and if it were so deep and wide for the wicked numerous inhabitants of Jerusalem to wash in and be clean; why not for the whole wokld? why not for me? Here hope sprung up, there was a Savior oflfered to ALL, instead of a certain few; and, if so, possibly there might be mercy yet for me; but these words followed: "Woe to thfm that are at ease in Zion;" here digcoaragements arose concluding that if there had been a time wh^n 1 might have obtained mercy, yet as I had omitted it so long, the day of grace is now passed, and the woe denounced against me. I thought myself to be the unprofita- ble servant, who had wrapped his talent in the napkin^nd buried it in the esfi'th; I had not on the wedding garment, and was unprepar- ed to meet God. I thought I heard the voice of God's justice saying, "take the unprofitable servant, and cast him into utter darkness." I put my hands together, and cried in my heart, "the time has been, that I might have had religion; but now it is too late; mercy's gate is shut against me, and my condemnation forever sealed. Lord, I give up; I submit;, I yield; I yield; if there be any mercy in heaven for me, let me know itj and if not, let me go down to hell 16 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, and know the worst of my case." As the words flowed from my heart, I saw the Mediator step in, as it were, between the Father's justice and my soul, and these words were applied to my mind with great power; "Son! thy sins which are many are forgiven tHie; thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace." The burden of sin and guilt and the fear of hell vanished from my mind, as perceptibly as an hundred pounds weight falling from a man's shoulder; my soul flowed out in love to God, to his ways and to his people; yea and to all mankind As soon as I obtained deliverance, I said in my heart, I have found Jesus and his religion, but I will keep it to myself; but itt- stantly my soul was so filled with peace and love and joy, that I could no more keep it to myself, seemingly, than a city set on a hill could be hid; at this time daylight dawned in at the window; I arose and went out of do^o^s, and behold, every thing I cast my eyes upon, seemed to be speaking forth the praise of the Almighty. It appeared more like a new world than any thing I can compare it to; this happiness is easier felt than described. I set out to go down to the house in which the meeting had been Jield the preceding evening, but the family not being up, I being young, thought it not proper to go in and disturb them; and seeing a wicked swearer coming down the road, I wished to shun him; aecdtdihgly I went down to the barn, and as he drew near me I went r'Mind it and looked up to the house, and saw the woman who was bound on the journey, coming out at the back door. I made to her with all the speed I could. It seemed to me that I scarcely touched the ground, for I felt so happy, that I scarcely knew whether I \^s in the body or out of it. When I got to her, she said, '*good morning!" Yes, said I, it is the blessedest morning that I ever saw; and walking into the house, the first words that I said were, I am happy, happy, happy enough; my voice penetrated every part of the house, and a preach- er coming down stairs, opened his hymn book at these words, "0! for a thousand tongues to sing, My dear Redeemer's praise." Indeed I did want a thousand tongues, and ten thousand to the end of it, to praise God for what he had done for my soul. OK, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 17 About nine o'clock, I set out for home, when to behold the beati- tiful Sun rising in the east above the hills, although it was on the 12th of November, and the ground partly frozen, was to me as pleasant as May. When I got home to my parents, they began to reprove me for going out so early, as they were concerned about me. But when I had told them where I had been, and what I had been upon, they seemed to be struck; it being such language as they had never heard from me before, and almost unbelieving to what I said ; how- ever my soul was so happy that I could scarcely settle to workj and I spent the greatest part of the day in going from house to house, through the neighborhood, to tell the people what God had done for me. I wanted to publish it to the ends of the earth, and then take wings and fly away to rest. In this happy situation, I went on my way rejoicing for some weeks ; concluding that I should never learn war any more ; some said, that young converts were happi^ than those who were many years in the way; thought I, LH, let me die whilst young, if I may not feel so happy when I am old. One day delating my past experience and trials in a prayer meet- ing, when my mother upon hearing thereof said unto me : How do you know that you are converted ? How do you know but what you are deceived, if you have passed through such trials as I hear you have ? I said, God has given me the evidence what ground I stand upon, and he sannot lie. Afterward walking out of doors, it was suggested to my mind, here are many in town that have pro- fessed thirty or forty years, and say they do not know their sins for- given, and can it be that a yo^ng upstart stripling could have more knowledge and experience in these things than they? Nay; you have lost your conviction ; You think you are converted, but your peace is a false one. J then began to reason with tlie tempter, (instead of going to God in prayer, to show me my state,) can all these things that I have hietwith be a deception? Unbelief began to rise ; and my beloved hid his face from me. J. ran to the fields and woods, sometimes kneeling and walking Md bemoaning my loss; for I felt as if some- thing of more value than silver or gold was departed from me ; but found no comfort to my restless m.ind. I then set out to go to a B 18 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, house wliere some converts lived, hoping God would enable them to speak something for my comfort; but before I got to the house, I met my beloved in the way; he was the chiefest among ten thousand, and altogether lovely. And I went home happy in the Redeemer's love. Having been sprinkled in my infancy, and now not feeling satis- fied, I had the ceremony re-performed ; as a declaration to all man- kind of my dedicating myself to God ; and the same evening I with twelve others, united ourselves in a society, to watch over one an- other in love; among whom was a second cousin, and friend R. Searle. Finding the Stolen Axe While Mr. Dow was traveling tliraiigh Maryland, a poor man came and informed him that some one had stolen his axe, and wished Mr. Dow to be good enough to tell him where it was. Lorenzo informed him that he pJjsessed no power of knowing such things. But the man had heard thatj[p)renzo Dow knew every thing, and could not be persuaded to believe any thing else. At length, when it was evident that the man could not be otherwise disposed of, Mr. Dow said he would find the axe if he could. "But do you suspect any person of stealing it," said Mr. Dow. "Yes," said the man very promptly, " I think I know the very man, but cannot be certain." "Will he be at meeting?" "Yes, sir; he is sure to be there." Mr. Dow said no more, but picking up a stone about as large as his two fists, carried it to church with, him and laid it on the desk beside hjm, so that all the congregation might see it. How many inquiries ran through their minds about the stone during the sermon no one knows. But, after he had finished preaching, he took the stone in his hand, and, addressing the audience, said, " some one has stolen an axe, belonging to Mr. A., a poor man — ^the thief is here, he is before me how, and I intend after turning round three times to hit him on the head with this stone." Accordingly, he turned round twice rather slowly, but the third time came round with great fiiry as if gping to throw the stone into the midst of the men before him, when to the no little amuse- ment of the company, and the satisfaction of the man who lost the axe, the very man who was suspected of the theft, dodged his head behind the pew. " Now," said Dow, " I will not expose you any further, but if you don't leave that axe to-night where yoil got it,, I will publish you to-morrow."j The axe was accordingly returned. A merchant of veracitj ■bi Cincinnati, vouches for the truth' of this story. — Ed. OE, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. ll CHAPTER n. CALL TO PREACH, tC. One day being alone in a solitary place, whilst kneeling before God, these wohls were suddenly impressed on my niind; "Go.ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." I. in- stantly spoke out, ''Lord! lam a child, I cannot go; I cannot preach." These words followed in my mind, "Arise and.gOj for I have sent you." I said, ". November 9th. Being a,gain tried in my mind with regard to preaching, fearing lest I should run too fast or two slow, and que- rying from what quarter my impression came, I dreamed that I was walking in the solitary woods beside a brook, and saw a beau- tiful stalk about eight feet high; from the middle and upwards, it was covered with beautiful seeds. I heard a voice over my head, saying to me, "shake the stalk that the seed may fall off, and cover them up; the seed will be of great value to some, though not to thyself, but thou shalt receive thy reward hereafter. I shook the stalk and beautiful red seed fell off, and I covered them up with earth and rotten leaves, and went on my way to serve the Lord. Sometime after I thought I was there again, and saw a large number of partridges or pheasants that had been seratching up a great part of the seed. I discovered them and was very sorry, and went and drove them away, and watched it to keep them away that the remainder, with my nourishing, might bring forth fruit to OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 25 perfection. Then I thought I began to preach, and innnediately awa- ked, when the parable of the sower came strongly into my mind. 19th. My mind has been buffetted and greatly agitated (not tempted in the common sense of the word) so that my sleep depart- ed from me, and caused me to walk and wring my hands for sor- row. Oh! the corruption of wicked nature! I feel the plague of; an hard heart, and a mind prone to wander from God; something within which has need to be done away, and causes a burden, but no guilt, and from which discouragements frequently arise, tending to sliicken my hands^ I dreamed that I saw a man in a convulsion fit^ and his counten- ance was expressive iff hell. I asked a by-starider what made his countenance look so horrible; said he, "the man was sick, and rela- ting his past experience, his calls from time to time, and his prom- ises to serve God; and how he had broke them; and now, said he, "I am sealed over to eternal damnation^" and instantly the convulsion seized him." This shocked me so much that I instantly awoke, and seemingly the man was before my eyes. I dropped asleep again, and thought I saw all mankind in the air suspended by a brittle thread over hell, yet in a state of carnal security. I thought it to be my duty to tell them of it, and again awoke; and these words were applied to my mind with power; "there is a dispensation of the gospel committed unto you, and woe unto you if you preach not the gospel." I strove to turn my mind on something else, but it so strongly followed me that I took it as a warning from God; and in the morning to behold the beauti- ful sun to rise and shine in at the window, whilst these words fol- lowed: "and unto you that fear my name, shall the Son of Righteousness arise, with healing in his wings," Oh! how hap.*, py I felt; the help of kings and priests is vain without the help of God. December, 31st. The year is now at a close, I see what I have passed through, and what is to come the ensuing year, God only knows; but may the God of peace be with me; and grant me strength in proportion to my day, that I may endure to the end, and receive the crown of life. I felt my heart drawn to travel the world at large, but to trust God by faith, like the birds, for my daily bread, was difficult, as my strength was small, and I shrank from it. HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, CHAPTER HI. KY BEGINNING TO TRAVEL. 1796. January 7th, I received a message, with orders from C. Spry, the circuit preacher, to go to Tolland to the brethren there, for a few days, that he might get some knowledge of my gifts ; this visit caused me some opposition. Afterwards I was directed to go and meet L. Macombs, a preacher on New London Circuit, who after two days constrained me to part from him ; so I turned and went to East Hartford, (having my brother-in-law's horse with me ; ) in this place I attended several meetings — from thence jjo Ellington, where I met C. Spry — who directed me to fulfil three of his appointments, ( Warehouse Point, East Windsor, and Wap- ping, ) at one of which, while speaking, I was taken suddenly ill, even to the losing of my sight and strength; so I was constrained to give over. 15th ; I rode near 40 miles to Munson and and met N. Snethen, with whom I travelled through his appointments a few days, when he also constrained me to part from him, after giving me the follow- ing hints ; — "You are but eighteen years of age ; you are too im- portant, and you must be more humble, and hear, and not be heard so much ,; keep your own station, for by the time you arrive at the age of twenty one years, you will see wherein you have missed it ; you had better, as my advice, learn some easy trade, and be still for two or three years yet ; for your bodily health will not admit of your becoming a travelling preacher at present : although, considering your advantages, your gifts are better than mine were when I first set out to preach, but it is my opinion that you will not be received at the next Conference. 19th; I feel gloomy and dejected, but the worth of souls lies near my heart : O Lord ! increase my faith, and prepare my way. After travelling several days and holding a few meetings, I at- tended the quarterly meeting at Wilbraham; C. Spry hinted that OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 27 there were many scruples in his mind with regard to my travelling, as many thought my health and behavior not adequstte to it. February 5th; I set out for home, and in the town of Somers, I missed my road and got lost in a great wilderness, and the snow being about two feet deep, on which was a sharp icy crust ; after some time, as the path divided into branches, so that I could not distinguish one plainer than another, and those extending over the woods in all directions for the purpose of getting ship timber, 1 went round and round about, till I was chilled with cold,' and saw nothing but death before me — at a distance I could see a village, but could discern no way to it, neither could I find the passage out, by which I entered ; *nd, night drawing on, no person can tell my feelings, except one who has, been in a similar situation. I at last heard a sound, and by following it perhaps about a mile or more, found a man driving a team, who gave me a direction so that I could find a foot path made by Eome school boys, by which I might happen to get through : toward this I proceeded, and by means of leaping my horse over logs, frequently stamping a path for the horse through the snow banks, with much difliculty made my way, and late at night got to my brother-in-law's, in Tolland, and the next day went home, and my soul was happy in God. I am glad that I went, although there was great opposition against me on every side; lam everywhere spoken evil of, &c. I feel the worth of souls to lie near my heart, and my duty still to be to preach the gos- pel ; with a determination to do so, God being my helper. 20th. I dreamed, that in a strange house I sat by the fire, a mes- senger came in and said, "there are three ministers come from Eng- land, and in a few moments will pass by this way." I followed him out, and he disappeared. I ran over a wood pile and jumped upon a log, to have a fair view of them ; presently three men came over a hill from the west towards me; the foremost dismounted ; the Other two, one of whom was on a white horse, the other on a red- dish one; both, with the three horses, disappeared. I said to the first, "who are you?" He replied, '^John Wesley" and walked towards the east: he turned round, and looking me in the face, said, "God has called you to preach the gospel ; you have been a long time between hope and fear, but there is a dispensation of the 28 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, gospel committed to you. Woe unto you if you preach not the gospel. I was struck with horror and amazement to think how he should know the exercise of my mind, when I knew he had never heard of me before! I still followed him to the eastward, and expressed an observation for which he with his countenance reproved me, for the better improvement of my time. At length we came to a log house where negroes lived; the door being open, he attempted twice to go in, but the smoke prevented him; he said, "You may go in, if you have a mind, and if not, follow me." I followed him a few rods, where was an old log house two stories high, in one corner of which my parents looked out at a window, and, said they to him, ^'Who are you?" He replied, John Wesley; well, said they, "what be- comes of doubting Christians?" He replied, "there are many se- ri6us Christians who are afraid of death. They dare not believe they are converted, for fear of being deceived; and they are afraid to disbelieve it, lest they should grieve the Spirit of God, so they live, and die, and go into the other world, and their souls to heaven with a gUard of angels. I then said, "will the day of judgment come as we read, and the sun and moon fall from heaven, and the earth and works be burnt?" To which he answered, "It is not for you to know the times and seasons, which God hath put in his own power, but read the word of God with attention, and let that be your guide. I said, "are you more rtian fifty five?" He replied, "do you not remember of reading an account of my death, in the history of my life?" I turned partly round, in order to consider, and after I had recollected it, I was about to answer him, yes; when I looked, and behold he was gone, and I saw him no more. It set me to shaking and quaking to such a degree that it waked me, up. N. B. The appearance of his person was the very same as he who "appeared to me three times in the dream when I was aooct thirt-een years of age, and who said that he would come to me again, &c. March, 14th. About this time my uncle made me the offer of a horse, to wait a year for the payment, provided I would get bonds- men; four of the society willingly offered. 01 from what an na. "xpected quarter was this door opened! My parents seeing my way OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 2S thus beginning to open, and my resolution to. go fprward ; with- lov- ing entreaties and strong arguments strove to prevail^ against, it,-^ But as they promised sometime before, not to restrain me by their authority, in case a door should open from another quarter, (tljfiy not expecting it would) and seeing they could not prevail on me to tarry, they gave up the point — and gave me some articles of cloth- ing and some money for my journey. Not having as yet attempted to preach from a text, but only ex- ercised my gifts in the way of exhortation, I, obtained a letter of recommendation concerning my moral conduct ; this was all the credential I had. About the 10th of l^st month, I drearned that 0. Spry received a letter from Jesse Lee, that he wanted help in the province of Maine, and the said C. S. and L. Macombs concluded to send me. N. B. These were the two preachers who afterwards signed the above recommendation. 1796, March 30th; This morning early, I set out for Rhode Island, in quest of J. Lee, who was to attend a quarterly meeting there — as I was coming away we joined in prayer, taking leave of each other, and as I got on my road I looked about and espied my mother looking after me until I got out of sight; this caused me some tender feelings afterwardst Until this time I have enjoyed the comforts of a kipd father's house ; and oh ! must I now become a wanderer and stranger upon the face of the earth until I get to my long home ! During this day's journey, these words of our Lord came into my mind, "the foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the son of man hath not where to lay his head." The language of my heart is, what is past I Imow, what is lo come I know not. Lord ! bless ;ne in the business I am set out upon. I feel more than ever that God has called me to this work. April 1st. Upon my arrival at Cranston, in Rhode Island, I found that J. Lee bad gone to Boston; I accordingly set out after him and found the preachers' boarding house in Boston, and they told me that Lee had gone to the east, and that I could not overtake him short of two or three hundred miles, and their advice was to go to Warren, in R. I., with Thomas Coope, a native of Manchester, 30 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE, who was going to set out that afternoon— accordingly I joined him in company thirty-six miles to East-town. Sunday 3d. This day, for the first time, I gave out a text be- fiore a Methodist preacher, and I being young both in years and ministry, the expectations of many were raised, who did not bear " with my weakness and strong doctrine, but judged me very hard, and would not consent that I should preach there anymore for some time. Having travelled a few days with T. C, we came to Reynham. where attemptingto preach I was seized with a sudden illness, such as affected me at Warehouse-point, with the loss of sight and strength, so that I was constrained to give over, and T, C. finished the meeting, after which lots were cast, to see whether I should pass the Sabbath here, or go to East-town^ — ^it turned up for me to tar- ry here, which I accordingly did, and held three meetings, which were very solemn. I met T. C, wha said if I was so minded I might return home; which I dedining, he said, "I do not believe God has called you to preach." I asked him why, he replied, 1st, your health; 2nd, your gifts; 3d, your grace; 4th, your learning; 5th, sobriety; in all these you are not equivalent to the task. I replied, enough ! Lord! what am I but a poor worm of the dust, struggling for life and happiness.* The time now drawing near when I expected to leave these parts, the society where I first attempted to give out a text desired to hear me again ; and contrary to my entreaties, T. C. appointed and con- strained me to go, threatening me if I refused. Accordingly I went and gave out these Wrords, "I am therefore become your en- emy, because I tell you the truth !" Gal. iv. 16. June 30th; I rode 24 miles and preached once, and saw J. Lee, the presiding elder, who~had just returned from the east — I gave him my recommendation. July 3d. This evening, our quarterly meeting being over, from the representation that was given of me by T. C, I received a dis- mission from the circuit, with orders to go home, which was as fol- lows ; — "We have had brother Lorenzo Dow, the bearer hereof, travelling *He is since expelled t^e connection. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 31 on Warren circuit, these three months past. In several places he was liked by a great many people ; at other places, he was not liked so well, and at a few places they were not willing he should preach at all ; we have therefore thought it necessary to advise him to return home for a season, until a further recommendation can be obtained from the society and preachers of that circuit. John Vaniman, JESSE LEE, Elder. Thomas Coope. Rhode Island, July 3d, 1796. To C. Spry, and the Methodists in Coventry." The time has been when I could easier have met death than this discharge — two or three handkerchiefs were soon wet with tears; my heart was broke; I expostulated with them, and besought him for farther employment, but, aipparently in vain. The next morning, as we were about parting, he said, "if you are so minded, you may come to Greenwich quarterly meeting next Sunday, on your way home. This evening I preached in Greenwich court house, as I once dreamed, and the assembly and place looked natural to me. After travelling though Sapatchet, Smithfield, (in which I form- ed a class, for the first time) Providence, and Wickford, where attending a prayer-meeting among the baptists, I asked liberty to speak, which seemed to give them a surprise, and after some time, they said, if I had a message from God they had no right to hinder me. I spoke a few moments to their attention, and their leader seemed satisfied, and bid me God-speed, i From thence to South Kingston, I set out for my native town; at which I arrived, and met my friends, who were glad to see me. My parents asked me whether I was not convinced that I did wrong in going? I told them, no; but was glad: others began to mock, and cry out, this man began to build, and was not able to finish. After a few days, I set out for Granville, to meet C Spry, who gave me a written license, and orders to come to the ensuing quar- terly meeting at Enfield, where he would give me a credential for conference ; and if I were so minded, and brother Cankey willing, I might travel Tolland circuit until that time. But as the circuit extended through my native town, I thought 32 lUSTOKY OF COSMOPOLITE, proper to forbear, and set ofl' I'or Hanover in the State of New Hanisliire, to see my sister, whom I had not seen for live years^ But J. Lee cominjr to town next day, lodged at a house where I had enquired tlie road, and they informed him of me; he sent for me, and querying me whether I still preached, and by what authori- ty, and what I came thither for; showed his disapprobation at my coming thither, and then we parted, I tarried a few days and held several meetings, and for the time met with no small trials of mind and opposition from without, and then returned to Connecticut, fulfilling several appointments by the way. I went thirty-eight miles to Enfield quarterly meeting, for my credential, and C. Spry sent me to Z. Cankey, who could not give it to me according to discipline; he sent me back to S., and he again to Z. C. several times; but at length Z. C. said, "Have you not a written license?" I told him, "Yes, to preach;" said he, "that is as good as a recommendation to the conference," which I believed, though C. Spry knew that according to the letter of the discipline I could not be received with this, yet he told me to attend the con- ference. September, 20th. Conference came on in the town of Thompson, and I passed the examination by the bishop before them, and, after some conversation in the conference, T. Coope, J. Lee, and N. Snethen bore hard upon me after I had been sent out of the room; and those who were friendly to me durst say but little in ray favor; so I was rejected and sent home, they assigning as the reason, the want of a written credential, though the greatest part of them were personally acquainted with me. This so affected me that I could take no food foi- thirty-six hours. After my return home, still feeling it my duty to travel, I accor- dingly resolved to set off the next Moiiday; but Peter Wager, who was appointed for Orange circuit, being in Tolland, sent for me,^ and I went twelve miles to see him. After that he had criticised and examined my credentials, he concluded to take me on his circuit. I accordingly got prepared, and hidding my friends farewell for a season, met him in West- Windsor. Sojne weeks ago, whilst I was in Rhode Island, being troubled OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL, 33 with the asthmatical disorder, I was necessitated to sit up some nights for the want of breath; but at length lying down on the car- pet, I found that I couid sleep.and breathe easy. • Accordingly, I was resolved to try the experiment until the fall of the year, which I did without much trouble.; But September 27th, being on my way with P. Wagar, he said the people would despise me for my lodging, and it would hurt my usefulness: and accordingly he insisted upon my lying in bed with him, he thinking it was a boy- ish notion that made me lie on the floor. To convince him to the reverse, I went to bed, but was so much distressed for want of breath, and constrained to arise and sit up all night. After whiah, I would be persuaded to bed no more. After travelling with him into the state of New York, he gave me a di- rection when and where to take the circuit. I travelled to New- Lebanon, where I saw one who experienced religion about the time that I did, and our meeting in this strange land was refreshing to our souls. Monday, October 10th. I rode thirty miles to Adams, and thence to Stanford, : at these places we had refreshing times. Wednesday 12th. I rode thirty miles across the Green Mountain, in fifteen of which there was not a sign of a house; and the road being new, it frequently was almost impassible ; however I reached my appointment, and, though weary in body, my soul was happy in God. From Halifax I went to Guilford, and in entering a chamber where the people were assembled, it appeared natural to me, ai though I had seen it before, and brought a dream to my remem- brance, and so overcome me that I trembled and was obliged to re- tire for some moments. In this meeting, three persons were stirred up to seek God. Leaving the state of Vermont, I crossed Connecticut river, and through Norfield to Warwick, Massachusetts, where we had a re- freshing season. ' Thence I went to Orange, and preached in the Presbyterian meeting house, the clergyman having left the town. Being this day nineteen years old, I addressed myself to the youth. I 'spent a few days here, and though meeting with some opposition, we had C 34 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, refreshing seasons. Oh ! ho"w fast is the doctrine of unconditional reprobation falling, and infidelity and the denial of future pun- ishment prevailing ! Men thus going from one extremity to an- other, as they wish to lull conscience to sleep, that they may go on in the enjoyment of the world without disturbance : but oh ! would they wish to be deceived in a dying hour. I never felt the plague of a hard heart, as I do of late, nor so much faith as I now have that inbred corruption will be done away, and I filled with perfect peace, and enabled to rejoice ever- more. I never felt the worth of souls so near my heart as I do of late, and it seems as if I could not give vent enough to it. Lord! pros- per my way, and keep me as under the hollow of thy hand, for my tmst is in thee. October 20th. Satan pursues me from place to place : oh ! how can people dispute there being a devil ! If they underwent as much as I do with his buffetings, they would dispute it no more. He throwing in his fiery darts, my mind is harrassed like punching the body with forks and clubs. Oh ! that my Saviour would appear and sanctify my soul, and deliver me, from all within that is con- trary to purity. 23d. I spoke in Hardwick to about four hundred people, thence to Petersham and Wenchendon, to Fitchburgh, and likewise to Notown, where God gave me one spiritual child. Thence to Ash- burnham, where we had some powerful times. November 1st, I preached in Ringe, and a powerful work of God broke out shortly after, though some opposition attended it ; but it was very solemn. Some here I trust will bless God in the day of eternity that ever they saw my face in this vale of tears. In my happiest moments I feel something that wants to be done away : oh! the buflfetings of Satan ! if I never had any other hell, it would be enough. Thence to Marlborough, where our our meetings were not in vain. Whilst I am preaching I feel happy, but as soon as I have done, I feel such horror, (without guilt) by the buffetings of Satan, that I am ready to sink, like a drowning man, sometimes to that degree, OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 36 that I have to hold my tongue between my teeth to keep from utter- ing blasphemous expressions and can get rid of these horrible feel- ings only by retirement in earnest prayer and exertion of faith in God. From Marlborough I went to Packersfield, and thence to Ches- terfield, where I had one seal of my ministry. Leaving New Hampshire, I crossed into Vermont, and came to Marborough, I Thus I continued round my circuit until I came to Belcher — a few evenings previous, I dreamed that a minister came to roe and reproved me harshly, whilst I was preaching — in this place it was fulfilled; for a Baptist minister accused me, in the congregation, of laying down false doctrines; presently a Presbyterian affirmed the same, because I said that a christian would not get angry. Here also appeared some little fruit of my labor, among which were some of my distant relations. About this time I visited Mary Spaulding, who had been sudden- ly and miraculously restored, as was said, from an illness which had confined her to her bed about the space of nine years. Her con- versation was so profitable that I did not grudge the journey of sev- eral miles to obtain it. I found it to strengthen my confidence in God; the account was published in print, by a Presbyterian minis- ter, by her approbation. On the 29th, I met P. Wargar, which seemed to refresh my mind. I had to take up a cross and preach before him; but oh! the fear of man! The next day I separated from him and proceeded on my way. My discouragements were so great that I was ready to leave the circuit, and I would think to myself, I will go to my appointment to-day, and then go off; but being refreshed during the meeting, my drooping spirits would be revived, and I would be encouraged to go to the next. Thus it would be day after day; sometimes I was so happy, and the times so powerful, I would hope the "winter was past and gone," but soon it would return again. Thus I went on during the three first months of the circuit; at length my discour agements being so great, and inward trials heavy, concluded to go farther into the country and spend my time in the best manner I could, about the neighborhood where my sister lived. 36 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, December 15th, I rode fifteen mHes to Battleborough. About this time, on my way, I took a severe cold on my lungs, and almost lost my voice. The next day my friends advised me not to go to any other appointments, as they thought it presumption; but I feel- ing impressed in my mind, could not feel content to disappoint the people. Accordingly, in the name of God, I set out in the hard snow stottn, and over the mountains about ten miles, and a solemn time we had. The storm still continuing to increase, the snow had now fallen about knee high, so that the mountains were almost im- passable by reason of snow, steepness, mud and logs; the people here thought my life would be endangered by the falling of trees, or the extreme cold in the woods, as there was no house for several miles, and the wind blew exceedingly hard; however, out I set, re- lying upon the Strong for strength. The snow being driven in banks more than belly deep, I frequently was obliged to alight and stamp a path for my horse; and though I was much wearied and chilled, yet by the goodness of God, I arrived at my appointment, fourteen miles. We had a good time, and I did not begrudge my labor. I believe, these trials will be for my good, to qualify me for future usefulness to others; and a secret conviction I feel, that if I prove faithful, God will ■rany me through, and support me to see the cause that should ensix»^ After my arrival at my sister's I had thoughts of spending my time principally in study; but feeling it my duty to call sinners to repentance, I could not enjoy my mind contented without travelling in the neighboring towns, there being no Methodists in this part of the world. I went to Enfield several times during my stay, (being first invited by a Universalian, ) by which there seemed to be some good done. Here I received an invitation to fix my residence amongst them, as their stated preacher. This was somewhat pleasing to nature, as by which I could have ease, and acquire wealth ; an elegant new meeting house also being ready ; but something within would no* suffer me to comply. I still feeling it my duty to travel, I went to Canaan, Lyme, Dorchester, Orford, Hebron, New Lebanon, Straf- ford, Tunbridge, Chelsea, Hartford, with many other adjacent towns; and the feather edge of prejudice removed, and some few were awa- kened and hopefully converted to God. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 37 1797. June 4th, Ve»ehire in Vermont, I met with N. Snetheffi^ who informed me that he had seen J. Lee, and that I must come down to the quarterly meeting, and, said he, "J. Lee disapproves of your traivelling into so many new places, and what will you do provided that he forbids your preaching?" I told him it did not belong to J. L., or any other man to say whether I should preach or not, for that was to be determined between God and my own soul ; only it belonged to Methodists to say whether I should preach in their cormexion ; but as long as I feel so impressed, I shall travel and preach, God being my helper ; and as soon as I feel my mind released I intend to stop, let people say what they will. But said he, "what will you ^11 yourself? The Methodists will not owB you, and if you take that name you'll be advertised in the public papers as an impostor." Said 1, "I shall call myself & friend to mankind." "Oh!" said bej "for the Lord's sake don't; for you are not capable of it — and not one in a thousand is ; and if you do you'll repent it." I sunk into a degree of gloominess and dejection; I told him I was in the hand of God, and felt submissive ; so I bade him farewell and rode ten miles on my way. The next day I rode fifty miles to Charlestown, where I overtook J. Lee, to my sorrow and joy. ********** He mentioned some things, that if ever I travelled I must get a recommendation from my native circuit, or else not offer myself to the Conference sig^in. We then rode to Orange quarterly meeting; but J. Lee forbade P. W. to employ me any more, and then set off.* I ran after him and said, if you can get no text to preach upon between now and Conference, I give you Genesis xl. 14., and then turned and ran, and saw him no more for some years, when we met at Petersburg in Virginia. * I then returned home to my parents, after an absence of eight months ; having travelled more than four thousand miles, through heat in the vallies, the scorching sun beating down, and through cold upon the mountains, and frequently whilst sleeping with a blanket on the floor, where I could look up and see the stars through the bark roofs, the frost nipping me so that I lost the skin oflf my nose, hands and feet ; and from my ears it peeled three times, *This was the fourth time I htid been sect home. 38 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, travelling through storms of rain and snow; this frequently drifted into banks, so that I had no path for miles together, and was obli- ged to at times to alight and stamp a way for my horse for some rods; at other times, being engaged for the welfare of souls, after preach- ing in the dark evening, would travel the chief part, or whole of the night, journeys from twenty to forty miles, to get on to my first day's appointment; preaching from ten to fifteen times a week, and oftentimes no stranger to hunger and thirst in these new countries; and though my trials were great, the Lord was still precious to my ioul, and supported me through. The preacher of Tolland circuit, ( Evan' Rogers, who since hath turned churchman, ) after some close and solemn conversation, ad- vised me to preach in my native town, and provided that I could obtain a letter of recommendation concerning my preaching gifts, as well as my conduct, he saw no hindrance why I should not be received at Conference. The thought was trying, the cross great; to think of preaching before my old acquaintances and relations, besides my parents were opposed to it, fearing how I should make out ; however there being no other way, and being necessitated thereto, the people flocked out from every quarter, and after my feeble manner, I attempted to perform, and obtained a credential by the voice of the whole society; which was approved by two of the preachers at the quarterly, meeting, after which it was thought pro- per to send me to Granville circuit. During my stay at and about home, though I went into several other places, not in vain to some souls, yet my trials were very great, so that many almost whole night's sleep disparted from me; I walked the floor and woods, weeping until I could weep no more, and wringing my hands until they felt sore. When I was in the north country, being under strong temptations to end my life, I went down to a river to do it, but a thought of futurity darted into my mind; the value of my soul! oh! Eternity. I promised an4 re- solved if God would grant me strength to resist the temptatioi/, and see my native land in peace, that I would discharge my duty to my friends; which he did, and now my promise began to stare me in the face. I felt it my duty to visit from house to house; but the cross was Eo heavy, I strove to run round it; but the thorns beside the way OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 38 scratched me ; and to take up one end of the cross it dragged hard; here the old temptation returned so powerful, that I durst not go from one appointment to another alone, nor without one to go with me, and sometimes to sleep in the same room, lest I should end myself at night ; I was necessitated, and did visit about sixty different families, and then set off to Granville circuit, under the care of Sylvester Hutchinson, with Smith Weeks, and Joseph Mitchell. Weeks was at first unwilling I should come on the cir- cuit, fearing how I should make out, but seeing I was under trials, consented: accordingly I went round until I came to Suffield. — Upon my entering the neighborhood, falling into conversation with an old man, he invitg^ me to hold a meeting at his own house ; ac- cordingly I appointed to preach to the youth in the evening; and went to my other appointment not far off. iThe man of this house shut his door and would entertain no more meetings. This was a trial to me, not knowing what the society would do for a place tq mee> in. When I began to meditate what I should say to the yoxith, I could think of no subject, and felt distressed, and was sorvy I had made the appointment. I withdrew to a field to seek help froip the Lord ! but I felt a,f if all the powers of darkness were combined and compassed me about. When I saw the people began to collect, I thought I would have given the whole world, if I possessed it, that the meeting had not been appointed, but as it was now given out, and circumstances be- ing as they were, I durst do no other than go to the house, and by an impression spoke ironically from the words of Solomon, which mightily pleased the youth at first. My burthen was soon gone : the power of God seemed to overshadow the people, as I turned th* discourse upon, the judgment which the youth must be broughflnto ; and one of the ringleaders was cut to the heart and brought to seek God. Here a good work broke out, and where thirty or forty used to attend, now the congregation was increased to hundreds, and this wilderness seemed. to bud and blossom as the rose. In Northampton, a society was collected likewise, though Meth- odists had not preached there before. August eth; After preaching in Conway, I -v^ent to But Wand; 40 HISTOKY OF COSMOPOLITE. and when the people saw my youth, and were disappointed of the preacher they expected, they despised me in their hearts. How- ever God made bare his arm, and I have reason to believe that about thirty persons were stirred up to seek God from this day. The year past was remarkable, for very many persons complaiiV" ing of uncommon trials of mind from the enemy of souls, and scarcely any revival to be heard of either in Connecticut, Massa- chusetts, or the upper part of New York. The flame kindled and ran into several neighboring towns, and some hundreds of souls professed to experience the forgiveness of their sins. A great deal of opposition, both from preachers and people, Baptists and Presbyterians, was in this quarter; professing to be friends to God and truth, whilst to us they were secret enemies; ■ seeking to get people converted to their way of thinking, and pros-* elyted to their denomination. I dreamed one night, that I saw a field without end, and a man and boy striving to gather in the corn, whilst thousands of birds were destroying it. I thought there was such a necessity for 'the corn to be gathered, that let the laborers work ever so hard, the la- bor would not wear out their strength until the harvest was past. This dream encouraged me to go on in this work, and in the space of twenty two days, I travelled three hundred and fifty miles, and preached seventy-six times, besides visiting from house to house, and speaking to hundreds in class meetings. In several other places, there were good revivals' likewise. At the quarterly meet- ing I obtained a certificate concerning my usefulness and conduct here, and as S. Hutchinson thought not proper to take all the preachers to conference, concluded to leave me to help the revivals, and that he would there transact my business for me; so I gave him mySisnaission from Rhode Island, and my two hsl recommenda- tions to carry into conference. September, 19th. Conference began in Wilbraham; my case was brought forward, to determine whether I should be admitted en trial to preach, or sent home, or expelled. J. Lee, and several others, of whom some were strangers to my person, took up hard against me, from say, and hear say; and only one at first es- poused my cause, (this was Joseph Mitchell, with whom I had OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 4l travelled these last fc^v weeks ; ) after some time a second joined him. The debate was sharp and lasted for about three hours ; when Mitchell and Bostwick could say no more, but sat down and wept ; which seemed to touch- the hearts of 'some ; at length, it be- in^ put to the vote whether I should travel or not ; about two thirds of the Conferelice were in my faivor. All that saved me, in this Conference, from an expulsion, was the blessings that had attended ray labours ; but still those who \*^ere against me would not suffer me to be admitted on trial, 'not my name printed in the minutes. — One said, if they acknowledged me fit to travel, why not my name be put on the minutes ? if he be fit for one, why not for the other? So I was given into the hands of S. Hutchinson, to employ me or send me home as he should think jit. He sent me a message to meet' hiiji on Long Island, which I never received in time to go ; and the 'first preacher ( Daniel Bromley) who came to me after Con- ference, I asked, what hath the Conference done with me ? he re- plied; they have done by you as they done by me. What's that? said I. He replied, they have stationed me on this circuit, and that* was all I could get out of him concerning the matter; only he ordered me to take his appointments round the circilJt, whilst he shbuld go to see his friends, until he should meet me again. Ac- cordingly I set off to go round the circuit; I had been on my way but a day or two, before I 'came to places where the preachers, on their way from Conference, had beeri^ and told the accusations against me, and my rejection. Thus it was, day after day, people telling me the same story. /rom this circumstance, as the Conference had given me nO sta- tion, and Hutchinson's message had not reached me, I concluded I should be sent home again; as I had no license according to disci- pline; which one must have if his name is not printed in the minutes. My trials were great; I was afraid 1 should become insane; and seeing no chance for my life, I publicly gave up the name of Meth- odist, and assigned the reason why, viz : because the preachers would hot receive me as a brothier to travel with them, &c., and was resolved to set out for some distant part of Amerida, out of sight and' hearing of the Methodists,' and get societies formed, and the next year come and offer myself and them to the connexion, and take this method to get my character established; for J. Lefe had 4f HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, said, if I attempted to travel in the name of a Methodist, without their consent, he would advertise me in every paper on the conti^ nent, for an impostor. But now arose a difficulty from another quarter; I had lost my great coat on the road whilst travelling, and my coat was so worn out that I was forced to borrow one; my shoes were unfit for further service, and I had not a farthing of money to help myself with, and no particular friends to look to for assistance. Thus one day whilst riding along, facing a hard, cold northeast storm, very mach diilled, I came»to a wood, and alighting from my horse and falling upon my knees on the wet grass, I lifted up my voice and wept, and besought God either to release me from travelling and preach- ing, or else to raise me up friendsi My soul was refreshed, my confidence was strengthened, and I did believe that God would do one or the other, and, true it was, people, a few days after this, of their own accord, supplied all my necessities, and gave me a few shillings to bear my expenses. Jeremiah Ballard, whom I had esteemed as a pious man, was expelled at the Wilbraham Conference, and as he represented it, to me, it was unjustly. He went with me to the north, and in a num- ber of places he saw, with me, the outpouring of God's spirit; he was minded to form societies, and call ourselves by the name of Separate Methodists. I told him, no; for God did own the Meth- odists, and of course I durst not do any thing to their injury. This caused a separation between him and me; he formed societies on his own plan, and afterwards I saw him no more; but by what I eould learn, he and his people differed, and then he and some of them removed olf to the western country. It appears that the con- ference were under the necessity of excluding him for a foolish thing, as he would show no humility, but stubborn impenitence. — O! how blessed is the spirit of meekness. I accordingly left the circuit and set off for the north; I had not gone far till I came to Deerfield river; in riding through which, the cakes of ice going down the stream, had like to have cost me my life; but this did not discourage me; I still went on my way, up- wards of an hundred miles, till I came to the town of Windsor, ia Vermont; where God poured out his spirit, and several were turned \» him. I thought it not my duty to leave the young converts to the OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 43 devouring wolves, but to tarry and strengthen them for a season; and whilst here wR>te back to some of my old friends, who told the preachers where I was and what I was about; who wrote request- ing me to come back to a quarterly meeting. At first I concluded not to go, thinking what should they want but to scold rne; but feeling it impressed upon my mind in a powerful manner, one evert- ing, after holding two meetings, I called for my horse, and set out for Claremont, and continued travelling twenty-five hours, except- ing the times of baiting my horse, during which space I rode about an hundred and seventeen miles, and got back to Conway on my old circuit; from hence I proceeded to Buckland, where was held the quarterly meeting — and met the preachers, wishing to know what they wanted with me. Hutchinson began to be very crabbed and cross, seemingly at first, in his questioning me why I went away? I assigned him as the reason, because that I had no chance for my life. "Why," said he, "did you not receive the message I sent you, to come t» me?" I replied, "No," (not until it was too late, &c.) which I could hardly persuade him to believe at the first. L. Macombe asked what I came back for? I told hinfi I was sent for, and came to see what they wanted of me. Said he, what do you intend to do? I leplied, I expected to go back to the north; then he and Hutchinson went and talked together. I was sorry I had gone away, after I had found out the mistake, and Hutchinson's friendship for me; accordingly in answer to a query which was proposed, viz: what satisfaction can you make? I replied, that I was willing to acknowledge that I was sorry, but not guilty, as I did it in sincerity, not hearing soon enough of his message; which acknowledgment I made, first, in quarterly Conference, before about thirty preachers, leaders, and stewards, with exhorters, and then he required it in a public assembly of about eight hundred people. After which I travelled several days, in company with S. Hutch- inson, who was going to take me to Cambridge circuit; and on the way, said he, "the Conference have had a great deal of talk and trouble concerning you, and now you are under my care, and you shall live or die at the end of three months; if you are faithful, and your labors blest, so that you can obtain a recommendation from the circuit, all sjiall be well; but if not, you shall die. 44 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE, Accordingly, after reaching the circuit, a saying I remembered, viz: " you had as good be hanged for stealing an old sheep as a lamb," and finding the people in a very low state of religion, I was convinced that nothing but a revival could save iny life; I was therefore resoh'ed to do my endeavors to get a revival or else to get the circuit broke up. So I went visiting the people, from house to house, all denominations that were in the neighborhood, and where there was freedom, to exhort them collectively or individually, as I felt in my mind, after joining in prayer. Pittstown, New York, was the first place I thus tried on this circuit, and preached at night. Thus I did hsre, for several days successively, and it caused a great deal of talk. Some said I was erazy; others, that I was possessed of the devil; some said one thing, and some thought another; many it brought out, to hear the strange man, and would go away cursing and swearing, saying that I was saucy and deserved knocking down, and the uproar was so great among the people, that the half-hearted and lukewarm Meth- odists were tried to the quick, and became my warm opposers, com- plaining .of me to my travelling companion, Timothy Dewey, whose mind at first was prejudiced; however, it was not long be- fore I had the satisfaction to see some small fruit of my labor here; which gave me encouragement to strive to raise the inquiry of the people to consideration — ^tliough the devil should be raised round the circuit. In this place I visited about a hundred families, some of them- twice or thrice over. In Ashgrove, I walked about four miles, and visited every family in the way, and generally met with a good reception, though the cross of visiting thus wi s the hardest and hap- piest that ever I took up. Wilson's Hollow, which was surround- ed by mountains, except one small entrance by which I set out to go to an appointment; and 'coming to a house, I felt impi'essed to go in and pay them a visit; but the cross being heavy, I strove to excuse myself and go by, saying the; other preachers who are older in years and in experience and learning do not visit thus, arid. yet enjoy the comforts of religion, arid I will take them for my pattern; thinking it impossible that God should call m^ to such a peculiar- ity, who was so weak and ignorant. ,: Instantly, I.feltdist'-ess in my mind: when I came to a second house I felt Jmpressed a» above; OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 46 but still supported my mind against it with the same arguments — when I cast a look to the sky, and I felt as if God was abou« to revive religion there, and if I did not visit them, their souls would be required at my hand; it seemed as though the sun frowned aoon me: accordingly, I resolved, if the impression continued, tiwit I would go into the next house, and if I met a good reception, tftat I would thus go through all the families in the Hollow, which amwint- ed to about thirty in number. I called, and finding a good recep- tion to my visit, I went to a second and third, but was turned away: to all in the village, however, I went; some thought one thing, and some said another; however, they came out, to hear a crazy man, as they thought, and were struck with a great solemnity, whilst I spoke from these words: "Thus saith the Lord, set thine house in order, for thou shalt die and not live." The second and the third day I held meetings likewise, and said, at such a time, I hope to be here again, God willing ; and accordingly came, and proposed a covenant to the people, if they would attempt to pray three times a day, four weeks, ( on their knees ) I would remember them thrice in the twenty-four hours during that space, God being our helper to perform; and those who would endeavor to do it, to signify it by standing on their feet, and those who would not to keep their seats; for God is about to revive religion here, and those who will put in for a share, may freely obtain, but those who neglect will find to their sorrow. About twenty rose up, to which I called God to witness, and whilst we were at prayer, one who had not agreed, caught hold oi a loom to avoid falling down, whilst his knees smote together. The evening after I was gone, the youth assembled to take counsel about their souk; and were so concerned, that the cries became general, and were heard afar oiF; about eight persons found comfort before they disbanded. To this place Hutchinson came, just after he reached the circuit, though I had not heard of this effect of my labors. Thus round the circuits I went, visiting from house to house, getting into as many new neighborhoods as I could, and sparing na character in my public declarations. Many were oflehded at ray plainness both of dress, expressions, and way of address in con- versation, about heart religion; so that the country seemed to be in 46 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, an uproar; scarcely one to take up my cause, and I was mostly known by the name of crazy Dow. At length quarterly meeting came on in Welsh-hollow, and I expected an expulsion the uproar being so grea t as T. Dewey had come thirty miles to give me a scolding for my conduct; to whom I said, I make a conscience of what I do, and for it I expect to give an account to God; if you should ever turn against me, I cannot harken to you, in this matter. After which God gave me favor in his sight; so that he took my part, and defended my cause (round the circuit, like a champion,) to the lukewarm, unknown to me at first. Of him I was the more afraid, as I knew that he had promoted, the expulsion of Ballard. So I went to Hutchinson, and besought him to exclude me, that I Blight go my way and be no more trouble to them; which he refused, and gave me some sharp words, and said he would not; but that I should tarry on that circuit another quarter, adding, but before the quarter is up, I expect you will leave the circuit and run away; so we parted. But I was resolved he should be disappointed in me for •oce, at least, if no more. At Clariden and Castleton the society were watching over me for «ril, and not for good. These two places, I visited, likewise, from house to house; next to Fair Haven, where I met with hard speeches. Then to Poultney, where was no regular preaching. Here lived a young woman whom I began to question about her soul; but met with cool answers. Well, said I, I'll pray to God to send a fit of sickness upon you, if nothing else will do, to bring you to good, and if you won't repent then, to take you out of the way, so that you shall not hinder others. Said she, if you'll pray for such things as this, you can't be the friend you pretend to be to my soul; and I'U venture all your prayers, and was much displeased, and so was her mother likewise. She soon began to grow uneasy and restless, and went into one room and into another, back and forth; then sitting down but could get no relief. The whole family, except the father and one son, began to grow outrageous towards me, which occasion- ed me fo go seven miles late at night, for the sake of family qmet- ness. Shortly afterwards the young woman began to seek God, and with two of her sisters were found walking in the ways of wisdom: OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 47 and a society was soon formed in the place, although I saw them no more. In Hampton and Skeinshorough, on the south end of Lake Champlain, was some, revival, likewise. Here was a young woman who found fault with me, for eichort- ing the wicked to pray, saying, the prayers of the wicked were an abomination to the Lord. But I told her that was home-madi scripture; for that there was no such expression in the Bible: and after bringing undeniable passages to prove it was their duty, I be- sought her to pray: she replied I cannot get time. I then offered to buy the time, aiid for a dollar she promised she would spend one day as I should direct, if it were in a lawful way, provided she could get the day, (she not thinking I was in earnest,) I then turned ts her mistress, who promised to give her a day — then throwing a dol- lar into her lap, I called God and about thirty persons present, to witness the agreement. She besought me to take the dollar again, which I refused, saying, if you go to hell, it may follow and en- hance your damnation. About ten days elapsed, when her con- science roaring loud, she took the day, and read two chapters in the Bible, and retired thrice to pray to God to show her what she was, and what he would have her to be, according to my directions. Afterwards, I had the satisfaction to hear that before night she felt distressed on account of her soul, and before long found the com- forts of religion. From thence I visited Kingsborough and Queens- borough, where many were brought to a sense of themselves, among whom was Solomon Moon. One evening just as I had dismissed the assembly, I saw a maa to whom my mirid was impressed to go; and before I was aware of it, I was breaking through the crowd; and when I had got to him, I said, " Are you willing I should ask you a few serious questions?" to which he replied, yes: Do you believe (said I) there is a God? said he, yes. Q. Do you believe there is a reality in religion? A. I am uncertain; but think we ought to do as we would be done by. Q. Are you willing for some good advice? A. Yes. Q. Supposing I shall give you some that you can find no fault 48 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE, with the tendency of it, are you willing, and will you try to follow it for four weeks? A. Yes, if it is no unreasonable request. I then desired him not to believe what authors, ministers, or people said, because they said so; but to search the scriptures to seek for, light and instruction there; to read but little at a time, and read it often, striving to take the sense of it. 2dly. Not to stumble over the unexemplary walk of professors ot religion, nor the contradiction of ministers' sermons, but to forsake not what other people thought was wrong, but what he himself thought to be wrong; and then to take his leisure time, and go where none would see him but God, twice or thrice a day, and upon his knees beseech the Almighty to give him isa evidence within, -that there was a heaven and a hell, and a reality in religion and the necessity of enjoying it in order to die happy; and then, said I, I do not believe the time will expire before you will find an alteration in your mind, and that for the better. Q. Is the advice good or bad? A. I have no fault to find; the natural tendency of it is to good, if followed. I then said, you promised, if the advice was good, and you had no fault to find with it, that you would follow it four weeks; and now I call God to witness to your promise; so left him. He went away, and began to meditate how he was taken in the promise before he was aware of it, and for forty-eight hours ne- glected it — when his conscience condemned him, and for the ease of his mind was necessitated to go and pray. From hence I went to Thermon's Patent, and held several meet- ings, not in vain; and riding across the branches of Hudson's river, I called the inhabitants together, and we had a refreshing season from the presence of the Lord. In eternity, I believe, some will be thrankful for that day. After preaching at Fort Edward, (where one took fire mysteri- ously, and was burned to death) I went to East-town. Here the youth, under plain dealing would frequently leave the house. Ac- cordingly, after procuring a school-house, I invited all the youth to come and I would preach to them; and the house was filled from end to end; and then placing my back against the door, (to prevent OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 49 their running away) gave out the text, and did not spare, and was soon confirmed that God was about to visit the place. Solemnity rested on every countenance, and in the morning the congregation was treble its usual number, and there was a shaking among the dry bones. This neighborhood I visited from house to house likewise, and conversed personally with the youth, found that about two-thirds of them were under serious impressions, but durst not expose it to each other for fear of being laughed at, (though some iied from me for fear of being talked to,) and in this private conversation they promised to pray for a season, one of which broke her promise and strove to escape my sight, but follow- ing her to a neighboring house, I sat in the door and would not let her out till she promised to serve God or the devil for a fortnight; the latter she chose, saying, '^I can't keep the other;" and I called God to witness, and said, "I'll pray God that you may be taken sick before the fortnight's up" — and lelt her. Before night she be- gan to grow uneasy, and was sorry she made the promise, and soon broke it, and began to seek th§. salvation of her soul, and in about a week was hopef"ully converted to God. i After I had gone through the visiting, in public meeting I set forth plainly the state of the youth, as above mentioned, and be- sought them not to be afraid of each other, but to continue seeking the Lord. And one evening, whilst T. Dewey was exhorting, a flash of forked lightning pierced the air, and rolling thunder seemed to shake the house. Some screamed out for mercy; some jumped*" out at the windows, and others ran out at the door. From this night th& stir became visible, and thirteen of the youth that night resolved together to pursue religion, let their companions Jo as they would. A young man by the name of Gideon Draper, said, "if I can stand the crazy man, I will venture all the Metho- dist preachers to convert me." and when I heard of his expression, faith sprang up in my soul, and I felt a desire to talk to him; he abjected, "1 am too young;" but here God brought him down, and ^e is now an itinerant preacher. As our quarterly meeting was drawing near, every society round ;he circuit promised such a day, as inuch as their labor and bodily strength would admit, to observe as a day of prayer and fasting as D 50 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE, God, that he would meet with us at the quarteiiy meeting, which came on June 20th at Pittstown. Here, after S. Hutehinson had finished his sermon, J. Mitchell began to exhort, when there commenoed a trembling amongst the wicked ; one, and a second, and a third fell from their seats, and the cry for mercy became general ; and many of the backslidden professors were cut to the quick; and I think for eleven hours there was no cessation of the loud cries ; no business of a temporal nature could be done at this quarterly meeting conference. The next day, Solomon Moon, who had come more than forty miles, stood up in the love-feast and declared how he was caught in a promise, and to eafee his mind, was necessitated to fulfil, and within three days, found the reality of what he had doubted ; and besought others not to be afraid of promising to serve God : for, said he, I bless the day that ever I saw the face of brother Dow. It was curiosity, as he testified, which first induced him to come out to hear him that was called a crazy man. In this love-feast, the cry began again, and continued till within two hours of sun-setting, when I went off to an appointment, leaving about twenty who were resolved not to go away until they found pardon. This day's meeting, was a season not soon to be forgotten. I have reason to believe, from observation round the circuit, that not less than a hundred souls were blessed and quickened here. N. B. , It had continued from nine in the morning. During these last three months, I had six hundred miles to travel, in four weeks, besides meeting in class upwards of six hundred members and spectators, and preaching seventy or seventyriive times, and some visiting. As we were enlarging this circuit, there being a vacant place of upwards of si^cty miles, where I, with some trouble, got a few pla- ces of preaching; as I was travelling, at a distance I saw one dressed in black, whom I overtook ; and I asked, in our conversa- tion, if he knew any thing of the Methodists and their doctrine lately in these part^. He was a Calvinist baptist preacher, and from my dre^s and quegtious he supposed that I was no preacher, but a stranger to the ]\^ethodi,sts ; so he talked just like a prejudiced Cal- vinist about thejn ; and when he had found me out, he colored, and OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 61 invited me to dine at an acquaintance of his; and I requested per- mission to pray with them, which caused a surprise. "Prayers," thought they, "in the middle of the day!" Through this medium, the door was opened at Brandon, where I made a covenant with the people; here curiosty brought out one of the chief men, a merchant, with his proud niece, to hearj as he expected a great man, but be- ing disappointed in the looks of the person, was almost ready to go home; but considering in his mind, I have come a mile and a half distance, through a difficult road, now I am here, I'll stay to the end. He rose up in the covenant with his niece, not thinking what flhey were about, but seeing others rise. I called God to witness to the covenant, and fl^nt on my way. The consciences of those two persons began to condemn them for breach of promise; and to ease their minds, were constrained to fulfil, and soon found comfort; and they, with his wife, at the end of four weeks came out to join so- ciety; and twenty-two others followed their example the same day; in nine days after, twenty-five others joined likewise. The commonality said, the Methodists have done some good, by turning the mind of the blasphemer, from collecting in his debts, to religion, and so we are kept out of jail. In New Huntingdon I made a covenant with the people which proved not altogether in vain. Shortly after about forty were join» ed in class. This place, I visited from house to house, with Hindsburgh, Monkton, and Starksborough, where the wildemegs seemed to bud and blossom as the rose. 0! the joyful meetings we had in these new countries, will not soon be forgotten. When in Williston, an uncle of mine with his family came out to hear, but behaved very rudely, and strove to persuade me to leave the town, and have no more meetings there; for, said he, you'll break up our good order. From hence I proceeded to Richmond, wnere was a woman, who being told by her physician that death was now upon her, cried out. Why, doctor Marsh, you nave been deceiving me, promising me life and health, not letting me know my danger, that I might pre- pare for death. Twice I have been brought to the gates of death, and promised God if I might be restored that I would serve him, and after recovering broke my promise, and went on in the ways of sin; and now I am brought to the gates of death, and have not time 52 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, to repent; and, turning to a man in the company, said, whilst the minister is preaching my funeral sermon, know ye that my soul is in hell, and then expired. Here, whilst I preaphed, some liked, others mocked, and were unwilling to converse with me, lest I should ensnare them into a promise. From hence I crossed Onion river, through some danger by reason of its depth, to Underhill, where God gave me one child in the gospel, as I found next year. From thence to Cambridge, where I met with some opposition, and crossing the river Demiles to Fairfield and Fairfax, where the people were serious, but some afterwards spoke evil of this way. Thence to St. Alban's, where one made disturbance in meeting, which I reproved. After meeting, he said, if I did not make him satisfaction, by a public acknowledgment that I had abused him, he would prosecute me at law. I defied him to do his worst, knowing that the law was in my favor; then, said he, lay out for the worst. In another meeting, although he thought himself a gentleman, he came in and publicly attempted to wring my nose; but I dodging my head, his hand slipped by; and although I was a stranger, a man attempted to take my part; so I was forgotten by the first; the wrangle in words was so sharp between them, that the woman of the house turned him out of doors. The next day he way-laid me until he was tired and chilled, and went in to warm himself, and just then I rode by the house where he was. I preached in Swanton, likewise; and though I had many critics, and was publicly opposed by three Baptist preachers, yet three per- sons dated their conviction and conversion from this meeting; at the close of it, I appealed to the people that I had proved every disputed point from the scripture; whereas my opponents had not brought one whole passage of scripture in support of their asser- tions; so having first recommended them neither implicitly to be- lieve me nor my opponents, but to search the scriptures for their own information, we parted. But the Baptists held a council among ;hemselves, and came to a conclusion, that it was best to come no more to hear such false doctrine, as they deemed mine to be. — From Canada, I visited allthe towns on the Lake shore, to Orwell, to my uncle Daniel Rust's, and God was with me on the wav OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 53 The circuit was now divided, and 1 was to take the part which lay towards Albany. September 10th, having travelled on foot the preceeding week, about ninety miles, and preached nearly twice a day, I thought that something broke or gave way in my breast. I borrowed a horse, and proceeded from Wells to Danhy. Whilst speaking in the cha- pel, my strength failed and I gave over, and brother Lobdel con- cluded the meeting. To his house I went, but was soon confined to the floor with a strong fever, being destitute of money, bound in body, and but one room in the house, and several children in the family ; and the walking across the'floor, (the sleepers being long) caused a spring- ing, which gave me much pain, as I had but one blanket under me. A wicked physician was employed, without my consent, whose prescriptions, I did not feel freedom to follow ; but being over-per- suaded by some who wished me well, I at length complied, and found a very bad effect attended : being in this situation, I began to meditate what course to take, knowing that unless I could get help soon I must die — When I recollected an account I had heardof a man in a fever, who was given over to die ; and by persuading his watcher to give him plentifully of cold water, which was contrary to orders, he recovered in a few hours. I endeavored to follow the example, by askingit in teacup fulls, from bothof my watchers alternately, (so that they should not mistrust my intention, lest they should withhold it from me) as they waked up in the night, until I had taken twenty-four cups, which promoted a copious perspiration, and the fever left me ; but I was so weak that I could not bear the noise and shaking; and the .extremes from heat to cold, occasioned by the fire being sometimes large and sometimes nearly out. The man of the house with J. Mitckdl, were now gone to the Conference at Granville. 1 hearing of another family of Methodists who were rich, persuad- ed a young man without religion, to make a hier and sew a cover- let upon it ; with which, (the neighbors being called in) they carri- ed me up and down hills, (like a corpse) several miles to the rich man's house, where I expected the best attendance; but, alas! I was much disappointed, for they seemed unwilling to assist me with nursing or necessaries ; neither could I send to where I had friends, by reason of the distance. Here I despaired of life, and gome who 64 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE were no friends to my manner of conduct, reported that I was dead, from which it appeared, they wished it were the case. This report gained much ground, and circulated for some hundreds of miles; so that my parents heard of it, and believing it, gave me up for dead, and my sisters dressed in mourning, and the preachers on hearing il so credibly, ventured to preach my funerdl sermon in several places where I had travelled. The first relief that I got during this illness, was from a Quaker [a namesake of mine, though no relation] who had accidentally heard me preach. He came ten miles to see me, on hearing I was sick; I hinted to him concerning my situation; he went away, and the next day came again, and brought a quart of wine, a pint of brandy, a pound of raisins and half a pound of loaf sugar. These articles seemed to give new strength, but were soon out. My nurse, who was a spirit- ual child of mine, offered to get me what I had need of at her own cost; but she having herself and two children to maintain by her labor, being forsaken by her husband, my heart was so tender that I could not accept of her kind offer. Then she prevailed upon the man of the house, with much difficulty, to get me a bottle of wine. The reason, I suppose, they were so unwilling to supply me with what I stood in need of, was because they expected no recompense. The floor over head was loose boards, on which they poured day after day, baskets of apples and Indian corn in the ear; with which the working of a loom, and spinning wheels in an adjoining room, besides the cider mill near hand, all together, caused such a noise as in my very weak state distressed me much. In addition to the above, the youth of the neighborhood made noisy visits, without restraint of the family. A man who had heard of, but never seen me, came fifteen miles to know my state, and gave me a dollar. Soon after, two men who had heard that I was dead, and then alive, and dead again, came aboCit thirty miles to find out the truth concerning me. I was glad to see them, and would take no denial, until they promised to come with a wagon and take me away; which they were unwilling to do, thinking that I should die by the fatigue, but at length consented. The wagon came, and a message from a young woman, that if I would come to her father's house, the best of care should be taken of me. Her name v/as Mary Switzer. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 65 I waited thirty-six hours for the rain to abate, but seeing it did not, I persuaded them to wrap me in a coverlet, and with straw un- der and over me we set out; and over rugged hills and mountains, carried me twenty-seven miles in eight hpurs, to the house where I was invited; and beyond their expectation I received no harm. At this time I was so weak, that I was obliged to be carried, not being able even to stand alone. The yoUng woman mad6 good her promise, and the young friends who had joined society when I was in this part before, spared no pains for my comfort; she being up with me four and five times every night, whilst I was still despairing of life* One evening, as the young people were holding a prayer meeting in the adjoining room, a thought came into my mind, "Why is not God as able now to raise me to health as those in primitive days?" Something an- swered, "He is;" whyis he not as willing? Something replied, "He is;" another thought arose, "Why don't he do it?" The answer was, "because! you lack faith." It struck my mind, "is faith the ^ft of God? or is it the creature's act?" The reply was, "The power to believe is the gift of God; but the act of faith is the crea* tube's."- I instantly strove to see if I could act faith; and I did be- lieve, if the young people which were in the room, would intercede with God faithfully during that week, that God Would, in answer to many prayers^ restore me to healths I made this request of them, if consistent with God's will.— About t^o hours afterwards I fell asleep, and had a singular dream, by which I was convinced I should see my native town in peace once more; and within fifteen hours after I perceptibly began to amend, and by the goodness of God, after about ten week's confine- ment, from the beginning of my illnessi I was able to ride alone. During this illness I was frequently asked if I did not repent hav- ing exposed myself to such toils and hardships, through the year t>a8t? I replied, no; if it was to do, I would do it again, it brought me such peace and consolation, that now my very soul was lifted op above the fear of death, so that the grave appeared lovely. What I wished to live for, was principally these!; first, to attain to higher degrees of holiness here, that I might be happier hereafter; and secondly, I felt the worth of souls to lie near my heart, and I desired to be useful to them. What I desired to die for, was to get out of this troublesome world, and to be at rest with saints above. 56 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, CHAPTER IV. MY ADMITTANCE ON TRIAL. I OBTAINED a letter of recommendation, signed by above thirty local preachers, i^te-wards, and class leaders, &c., concerning my usefulness and moral conduct, which T. Dewey carried to the con- ference, and gave his opinions concerning me, when nine others and I were admitted on trial. My name was now printed in the mia- utes, and I received a written license from Francis Asbury. Then said S. Hutchinson to J. Lee, this is the crazy man you have been trying to kill so much. November 20. I set off with brother Dewey, for the north, though still so weak that I could neither get on nor off my horse alone. In Argyle, we had a solemn season; then we parted and I revisi- ted Thermon's Patent and Queensborough; after which, I rode twenty-three miles, facing a cold north-east snow storm; I think the hardest that I ever was exposed to; even wild geese could not keep their course but flew round and round. The next day but one, I rode through Rutland thirty-six miles to Brandon; stayed a week; met the societies; preached fifteen times and bade them farewell, and returned southward, visiting some places until the quarterly meeting came on. I took my leave of the classes and people in the different places, taking them to record that I had spared no pains, either by night or day, in public or in private, to bring them to good, and if they did not repent, I should appear against them in a future day, calling the sun, moon and stars, with the fowls of the air and the beasts of the field to witness against them, that my skirts were pure from all their blood.* Dec. 27th. I vomited almost to death before it could be stopped; but far beyond expectation, God enabled me ,i6 speak at night. Qn the 29th, I held three *iheetings, which appeared not in vain. On the 29th, our quarterly meeting began in Ashgrove, where I was *I have not seen them since. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 51 complained of, and was whipped, in words, by brother Hutchinson for jealousy. The next day we had a refreshing season and about two hundred communicants; and after giving them my farewell, I felt as pure from the blood of the people as if I had never been called to preach. During my stay upon these two circuits, in ten months, about six hundred were taken into society, and as many more went off and joined the Baptists and Presbyterians. From thence, I started with brother Sabin for the south. I rode through Bennington, in a cold storm, through tedious drifts of snow to Williamstown. January 1st, 1799. ring my stay. The next evening, after preaching, said I to the people, as many of you as will pray for yourselves twice in twen- ty-four hours for two weeks, I will endeavor to remember you thrice, God being our helper: and you that will, come forward, that I may take your names in writing, lest that I forget. A few came forward that night, some more next day, and so on; now and then serious countenances appeared in the streets: at length one and another, was telling what God had done for their souls. — The congregations were very large. I had a desire to visit the ad- jacent country; but no door opening, as no one might travel without a pass, the country being under martial law. When I arrived at Lame, the captain said, "When I sailed from Quebec; you was so weak and low, that I never expected to bring you to land again: I thought I should give your body to tiie sharks." **But now," said the mate, "you look ten pounds better." The in- habitants said, "We evidently perceive that since your coming here you have altered for the better every day; you are become quite another man than when we first saw you." The first night after I came on shore, I went into my room, and was going to pull off the coverlet of the bed and spread it on the floor, according to my usual custom in America; and behold the floor wa'fe earthen or ^ound, which I had never seen before. I felt amazed to think what I should do: to sleep in a- bed, thought I, I cannot; to sleep on the ground, I shall be chilled and take a fever. At length, I came to this resolution, I'll go into bed with my clothes on, and if it comes to the worst I'll get up: so I lay down, think- ing it more than probable I should have to rise within half an hour on account, of my asthma. I soon fell asleep, and slept sound '-n- til morning. 78 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. CHAPTER V. f MY DUBLIN RECEPTION. December 15th. After two days sail, I landed in Dublin. Hav- ing a letter, I sought to find him to whom it was directed, ( and a custom house officer, for two and six pence, English, piloted me there) but in vain, he not being at home, and night coming onj I scarcely tnew what to do, (as the family would ngt suffer me to stay within, fearing who or what I might be. I inquired for Methodists, and a chaise-man said, "I know where there is one lives," and for a shilling I got him to pilot me to the house. After rapping, the door was opened by a boy, who informed the mistress that a stranger wanted her husband; she said, let him come in till he comes home; so I went in and sat down in the shop. By and by in came her husband, William Thomas, who stopped and looked, and then, witli a sniile, shook hands with me, which gave some hope. After I told him my case, he invited me to tarry all night, which I accordingly did, and in the evening, attended meeting at Gravel-walk, where I was called upon to pray. The next day I called to see the preachers, and when I saw Mr. Tobias, made my case known to him. He heard me, and then with plain dealing, advised me to go on board again, and return to America, (though he did not attempt to scruple the account I gave of myself. ) He offered me half a crown, which I refused, and with tears left him, though I had only t\vo shillings left. In the evening, at Whitefriar street meeting house, I was again invited to pray and sing; but Mr. Tobias, the preacher, on whom I called, checked me in the meeting, and took the hymn out of my mouth, commanding the persons who prayed to stand on their feet; and after meeting gave me a sharp reprimand, and then calling the local preachers and leaders into a room, and, I suppose, charged them and reprimanded him who had invited me, as he ever after was shy of me. Now my door seemed to be completely hedged up, and I saw nothing but death before me, having no money to pay my passage OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 79 back, and did not know how to do ship work, and no trade to follow for my bread, and I could not expect this family to entertain me long; no acquaintance round about, and three thousand miles from my friends. No one call tell my feelings, but those who have been in like circumstances. It was a trial of my faith, yet I couU not say that I was sorry I had come; though it seemed to me I snould sink: but these words strengthened my confidence, "the very hairs of your head are all numbered;" immediately I lay down and fell asleep, and dreamed that I saw a person put leaven in a bowl of meal, it leavened and leavened till it swelled clear over on the ground, then leavened under ground till it got a distance of some score rods, imperceptible by the itihabitants: at length it broke out in the further- most place, and then appeared in several other spots. This dream Strengthened my confidence in God, that my way was preparing, though imperceptible to me. When I awakened, my trials of mind were greatly lessened. I besought God il" he had any thing for me to do in this country, to open a door and prepare my way; but if not to take me to himself, for now I was only a burden to myself and others; and I did believe that one or the other he would grant. 20th. Whilst we were at family prayer, a Scotch soldier over- heard us, and came in, and invited me to preach in the barracks at Chapel-izod; which I did several times. Several other doors open^ ing in different barracks, I improved the opportunities; one of which was at Island-bridge, where God began a revival, and a small society formed. Having a desire to visit the country, at first the door appeared shut; but one who for a scruple of conscience had been expelled from society, upon hearing thereof, sent word to me, that he was going to the Queen's County, and if I was minded to go, he would bear my expenses. 26th. Taking the canal boat, we proceeded to Monastereven, whence we walked to Mount Mellick. Here I found a man out of society, who had been abused, which occasioned the separation of about thirty, who held meeting by themselves. I held several meetings in different parts of the neigh- borhood, and refreshing seasons we had from the presence of the Lord. A quarterly meeting was held here ; I petitioned for liberty to go into the love-feast, but was denied, saying, you belong to no particular people. 80 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, My congregations were so large, that no private house could con- tain them ; for which reason some got open the preaching house doors, contrary to my advice, lest it should look as though I want- ed to cause divisions ; ^s the preacher had left strict orders not to let He in, &c. . , Here I heard two women from my own country preach, called Quakers, for the first time of my hearing any of their society. A question arose in my mind whether I had done wrong in com- ing away from my own country; is it not possible that I lay under a mistake after all ? Thus I fell asleep, and -dreamed that Idled and was buried under a hearth ; the lid which composed a pa^rt of the hearth was marble. My father coming into the room, said. What is there? one replied, your son lies there; he then pulled pfl the lid, and behold it was truth; and I stood and looked at my bo- dy, and behold it began to putrify and moulder. I was then a mystery to myself, to see my body in one place and I standing in another. I began to feel, to see if I was flesh, when a voice seem- ' ed to answer, I will explain the mystery to you : If you had tarried fti America you would have died as the prophet predicted, and your body would have been mouldering as you now see it ; but now you are preserved for future usefulness. I waked up with the queries gone. From hence ( Mount Mellick) I returned to Dublin. I receiv- ed two letters from the north requesting me to return with all speed to Larne. I had received money enough from the withdrawn mem- bers to return. After holding some more meetings in the barracks, and paying my passage, and procuring some provisions, having two shillings left, I set sail but was put back by a contrary and tempestuous wind, after being out thirty hours. I believe there was the peculiar hand of God in this : for a pow- erfuV'time we had at Island-bridge the same evening. January 20th, 1800. After walkings some miles I embarked Again, and just as I was going on board heard the shrieks of a wo- man, and turning round saw (a door shut to) one weeping as if her heart would break; I asked the cause, she said she had three children at home who had eaten nothing since yesterday, and that she had not a sixpence to buy bread for them, and this family would OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 81 not lend a shilling, and that her husband would not receive his wages till Saturday night. There was a dialogue in my mind whether duty required me to relieve her want, as I reflected how much better my present circumstances were than her's, however, I did not leave her until I had given her one of the shillings J had left; and O how grateful she appeared! The wind was not eimrely fair, however we put to sea. The storm increased and the sea seemed to run mountains high, and, washed several valuable things overboard; but what surprised me was, I never once heard the cap- tain sv/ear or take an oath during all the time. On the 22d we gained Belfast harbor, and came to anchor with- in two miles of the town, where I jumped into, the pilot's boat, and gave my remaining shilling to be taken ashore ; and through cold wind acd rough sea, reached the town about six o'cjock in the even- ing ; I wandered up and down for some time, the way I felt my heart inclined, (by the light of lamps, famine and death now stared me in the face in this large town, yet I could not say .1 was sorry I had left America,) till recollecting a letter I had in my pocket; but how to find the person to whom it was directed I did not know, tilt feeling my heart drawn up an alley, I went to the door and rap- ped; the people desired to know what I wanted, I told them, and they invited me to take tea, which favor I received as from the hand of God ; then a lad piloted me to the bouse where I wished to go to, where I found the mother of sergeant Tipping, in whose room I preached at Island Bridge, he having sent by me a letter to her. Here I had lodging and continued a few days. I went to see the preacher, Andrew Hamilton, jr., to whom I felated all my situa- tion, apd after a little conversation, he gave me the right hand of fellowship, with liberty to improve round his circuit, so long as my conduct should be such as it had been at Larne. He coUld not be bla-med for this preca,ution, for if I behaved bad he would be blam- ed. I told him I hoped he would not have cause to repent giving me the liberty. He likewise gave me money to pay the passage of a letter to New York, to get justice to my character. From thence to White Abbey, where I was questioned very close, and it was judged I did wrong in leaving America; but J. Morrison whom I had seen at Larne, the local preacher who G 82 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, formed the class and questioned me very close toknow whereJ cam& from and was going to, persuaded them to call an assembly to whom I spoke. Thence to Carrickfergusj (where a jailor apparently died and re- maintfJ for some hours, and then revived again for some hours, and appeared to be in great horror, ) and held several meetings; to these two places I had notes of introduction from a preacher. Thence to Balleycarey, and held three meetings which were very serious. From thence to Larne, which' I gained about twelve o'clock. I took breakfast and visited two or three families ; and though my dress was somewhat altered, the people knew me, and were staring from their doOrs and v,-indows. I spent some more time about here not altogether in vain. The society when I left it amounted to about sixty in number. — Siicha village as this I had never met with before, for universal friendship to me, considering that I was such a stranger. One man by the name of Martin shewed every possible kind- fss, whilst I was confined with a breaking out, which was gener- y thought to be the small pox. On^ morning the shop door under the same roof, was found wide open;'' though late in the evening, the mistress had examined par- ticularly, as was her constant custom, to see that it was locked and barred just before she refired to rest, and nothing was missing, though money and valuable articles were in it. The man who said his wife made so much ado about religion, at first was unwilling to hear me preach or even to pray in his family, being much given to jesting, &c., but when sickness came upon him he made vows to serve God and sent for me to visit him, and a few hours before his departure found acceptancei Isle of Magee — here was no society; many were theoppOsers to a free salivation; contending for reprobation and blinding the people thereby. However many tender minSs of the yotith appeared to be stirred to consideration during the few meetings I held among them. In Strade and Cogray were a tender people; at Doe, the officer of the guard, taking the letter of the law, would suffer no meeting in the evening, so scores were disappointed; however I held meeting in the inoming and several times afterwards, and the disappointment brought more out to hear by which means I hope good was done OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 83 One morning I went to the Barracks, and found many of thegpU diers round the card-table, which aeerned to dash them; I threw a pamphlet on the table and walked off. These things so attracted their attention, that on the Sabbath day the parade was omitted, that the men might come and hear me. The greatest part of the con- gregation were caught in a covenant to pray to God; but some were angry, and said I swore the people to be religious. In Oarley, the family had not notified the people according to ex- pectation, fearing the martial law. However, they thought and said it was a pity I should lose my visit, and calling in the neigh- bors, we had a refrehsing season. Some more meetings. 1 held in this vicinity, and some 'good I hope was done. In Ballinure, and at Bryantang, we had comfortable seasons. At Kilwater the Lord has begun a good work. In Belleaston church, I spoke to the young people, from, "Is it well with thee?" Having walked 14 miles and spoke four times. Sunday, Feb. 23d. I went 14 miles; and preached four times: many felt the word, and it was a happy day for me. March 6th. A magistrate hailed me on the road, and said Where are you going? A. To Lame. Q. Where did you come from? A. Balleycarey. Q. What's your occupation? A. I have got none. Q. Where do you belong? A. No where. Q. What, are you strolling about the country? A. Yes, I have no particular place of residence, Q. Where's your pass ? A. I have got none. Q. Where was you born. A. North America. Q. Well to America you shall go again. Come, go along wi& me to the guard hoMse. Q. What (.h yon follow, and what did you come after? 84 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. A. I follow preaching, and come on account of my health, and Methodist preachers don't apply to magistrates for passes. Well, said he, upon observing I could not walk fast, my feet be- ing sore, if ever I see you this way again, I'll send you to prison. I replied, you are at your option, and can do as you think proper; then he put whip to his horse and went on. My mind has been much exercised of late, as though it would be my duty to travel the vineyard in other lands ; and the time of my departure from about here, I believe is nigh. ■ I feel the worth of souls near my heart, and as willing to spend and be spent in the ministerial virork as ever. My trust is still in Gb*d ; but oh ! the hindrances of Zion ! stumbling block professors, I fear are the ruin of many souls. When I feel an uncommon impression to do such and such things, if when I resist them, it brings a burthen, and if when I dierish them, it brings love, I generally prosper in following it. My soul is pained on Zion's account. The sores upon my feet grow worse, and I have no one who can sympathize with me in my singular state. Sunday 16th. I preached in Larne, for the last time, from, " Finally, brethren, farewell," &c., to many hundreds of people, and a melting season it was : hard to part with the young beginners ; but the will of God be done. On the 17th, contrary to the advice of my friends, I walked to Caron Castle. There I held some meetings, and there seemed a prospect of good : from thence to Glenarm and Canayla : here we had solemn seasons. Returning to Carrickfergus, I held sieveral meetings; as when I left this place before, I put up a public notice, requesting the peo- ple to turn out when I should come again and hear me, not as crit- ics, but as sincere inquirers after truth. Word flew over the town, . " the Amierican's come, the American's come : " so I told them I would speak to the youth; which brought out a multitude. Then I said, invite out the deists and I will preach to them : so the deists in town were invited personally, and came out. After several meetings I felt myself clear from the place and went away. The power of God was sensibly felt here, and one soul, I trust, found religion, which, in some months after, I met in Dublin. From this OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 85 I infer, that I ought not to be discouraged, if the fruit of the word does not immediately appear. April 1st. Quarterly meeting was held in Belfast, where I met several preachers who treated me with love and friendship, as much as I could expect in my situation. One's name was Wood. A woman at Newry, who had got her mind prejudiced, had said, God has forsaken the Methodists, and will bless them no more, and the Evangelical society have got the crown. Wood said, God has not forsaken them, but' will bless them again, and twenty souls will be converted before Saturday night; and how he came to speak these words, he could not tell; it was the beginning of the week, and no visible appearance of 'a revival, until the next evening, when some were awakened powerfully, and just twenty before sunset on Satur- day professed to receive remission of sins; and some hundreds were shortly taken into society. I walked to Antrim, and held a few meetings that were solemn and tender, and returned to Belfast. Round this place I had some meetings in the street; for which I was sent to prison. But A. Hamilton said to the officer, preaching in the streets is a privilege allowed us by government, and they will give you no thanks for your loyalty for sending this young man to prison; for he seeks to do no harm, if he can do no good. I got a good opportunity to speak to the prisoners by this means, and shortly was let out. I bless God for this singular event; it brought more people out to meeting. Feeling my spirit inclined to the south, I bought a passage. These words were running through my mind, "and the waters assuaged." I told the people, I believed we should have a rough passage. — Some advised me not to go; but feeling my work done here, I set forward on Friday, 11th; but on Saturday night the wind began to blow, and the waves to toss the vessel, which drove the captain and hands to their Romish duties, as they got affrighted. The wind drove us into Ramsay bay, in the Isle of Man; and we anchored about a mile from land. The waves being high, I did not venture on shore for several days. The sailors ate up myprovisions, while I slept, and their provis- ions my weak stomach could pot endure, so for more than eighty hours I did not break my fast, except with cold water, and I des- paired of life. 86 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, The wind and storm increased. : A schooner near us slipped her cable and drove off towards Scotland. Our captain, the night Ibl- lowihg, gdt terrified, as did all the. hands and passengers, but my mind was calmly composed and stayed on God. The captain had thoughts of running the vessel on shore to the mercy of God; but at length day broke; a signal of distress was hoistedj and a boat came from shore and towed the vessel to the quay, and I went on shore to get something to eat, having but one sixpence with me; and after much difficulty I found a Methodist boarding house, and made known my situation to them, who gave me some food; aiuleating rather hearty in my weak state, it seemed to give me much pain. Here also I obtained lodging for the night. My soul was melted to tenderness under a sen-se of the divine good- ness, in turning riiy present captivity. The next day, a preacher came to town, to whom I made known my situation; and God gave me favor in his sight. The preaching house doors were opened to me, whore some lum- dreds of people came to hear me the first night; and conditionally if the vessel did not sail, I intended to speak the next. The vessel attempted to sail out unknown to me; but broke he anchor against the quay, which detained her another tide; so I ful- filled the meetings and did not lose my passage. And the captain, who said I was either a witch, or a wizai-d, or a devil, or some- thing, and if it had not been for me, he would have had a good pas- sage; Eind before he would take me again, I should pay five pounds. He and the crew came to hear me preach. I visited about twenty families, which times were tender indeed. The disposition of the inhabitants seemed exceedingly hospitable. They were. minded I should tarry for some weeks; but not prevail- ing, gave me the necessaries for my passage; so we set sail for Dublin. I did not regret all my sufferings, considering the good times wc had in this place. The night before 1 got on shore, (whilst the waves were running over the deck, every now and then the water coming into the fore- castle where I was, which made me wet and chilled) I dreamed that I got on shore and held two meetings; this I related to the people before I held the first meeting. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 87 After a passage of forty-eight hours, I landed in Dublin, and was glad to escape the sailors, who twice threw me across the cabin. I went to my old lodgings at W. Thomas's, where I continued about twelve days, to let my feet grow a little better; but the same shyness still appeared among the Methodists. During this stay was held the Quaker yearly meeting. Several meetings I attended and found it not altogether unprofitable. Here I saw one, who whep hearing I was sick in the north, sent something for my relief, and here gave me more to bear my expen- ses. 1 May 6th. I took the canal boat for Monastereven, where I tar- ried a few days, and tjje edge of prejudice seemed to be removed in general; and some refreshing meetings we had, though the meeting house was shut against me by strict orders from the preachers. — The class leader said, I believe you mean well, but did wrong in coming away without liberty; for which reason, these afflictions in body, &c., pursue you; but if you are faithful, will at last work for your good. A door being opened, I rode three miles and held four agreeable meetings. A man carried me to Knightstown, near Mount Mellick, as my leet were so sore I could not walk; my hands likewise so swelled, that I could neither drfess nor undress myself; so I tarried with T. Gill, for several days, holding meetings in the evenings; the fruit of which I expect to see in the day of eternity. Thence I rode to Maryborough, where I found kind friends, and held four meetings. Thence to Mount Mellick, where we had some refreshing times. Then 1 hobbled along about two miles, to T. Gill's, and spent a little time more. My trials concerning my singular state, and the exercise of faith God calls me to, and to see so little fruit of my la- bor, and the cause of God so wounded by ministers and professors of all denominations, that I wished to retire to some lonely part of the earth, and weep and mourn out my days. But I cannot feel myselt released from the important duty of sounding the gospel trumpet; from which, if I had the riches of the Indies, I would have given them' for a release; but in vain were mj thoughts. I sometimes thought I knew the feelings of Moses, in some small de- gree, with Jonah and Jeremiah; bvrt not long after 1 found the Lord 83 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, to breathe into my soul the spirit of my station; I felt resigned; my discouragement subsided, and I was filled with holv resolutions to go forward in the name of, and relying on G6d alone. O God! keep me as in the hollow of thy hand, meek and patient, strong in faith, and clean from the stain of sin. Taking my farewell leave of the people, I set out for Hall, near Moat, as a Quaker had invited me during the yearly meeting. — Here I tarried several days, and experienced much kitidness, and I improved the time with reading their books, with the journal ot George Fox, * which I long had a desire to see, but never had an opportunity until now. Oh! how are this dear people degenerated from the state of their forefathers. I spoke a few words in one ot their iheetings for which I got a gentle reproof. I rode to Athlone, and sent a man through the town to notify the people. I soon had a considerable congregation collected in the session house, where many were melted to tenderness. I believe much good might be done here, if the gospel was faithfully preached; but I must go to another place: here the Methodists, looked upon me shy. In Moat I held two meetings, and had out, as I was told, some scores of Quakers. Thence I rode on a car to Tullamore, where I found prejudice had been imbibed by the people. Hence I walked with much pain to Mount Mellick, and rested two days. Thence to Mouiltrath, where we had several comfortable meetings. As I lay on the bed, a preacher came in and looked, and went out and enquired, and came in again, and calling me brother, shook me by the hand. I questioned him as to his mind about my leaving America, and having a meeting appointed in his preaching house; said he, it is hard to judge in a case where it comes down on a man's conscience; so he parted with me in love, saying, — "I cannot en- courage you according to discipline; and so I will let you alone, &c. But brother Aveeill told me if I saw you to bid you call on hu*." (He travelled at large by the consent of the Conference.) About this time the .following ideas came into my mind. 1st. About the plain language so called; first, grammar; second, bible; third, Christianity teaches us plainness and not superfluity. 2nd. *In inectinga with the world's people he generally apoke, but was silent in Bettle(| meetings. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 89 That no man has a right to preach except God call him to it by his Spirit: and though words be ever so good«.in and of themselves^ yet unless attended by the power of God to the heart, will hot profit; therefore it must be delivered in the power and demonstration of the Spirit to be useful; and likeness will beget likeness: and a stream cannot rise higher than the fountain; therefore what is not done in the Spirit cannot please God: consequently we must be subject ts the Spirit; passive and active: passive, having no will of our own, but what is conformed and swallowed up in the will of God; ac- tive, to do what God requireth of us, &c. As past experience is like past food, the present enjoyment of the love of God, is what makes the soul happy; therefore there is a necessity of momentary watching and constant prayer; to have our minds uplifted, drawn out after and solely stayed on God; and to have one fixed resolution in all things, to please, and know, and en- joy God; and accordingly begin, spend, and close every day with him: and in order to this, we must have the agency of the Spirit; its strivings and assistance; but can we have this at all times at our disposal? To command the Spirit we cannot; this is the free un-. merited gift of God! yet as he gives it freely, and as the Spirit is never found wanting to convince considerate minds and make, them serious and solemn: and as the scriptures command a steady acting, walking and striving; and saith, "eth," the present tense, (and yet requires no impossibilities) I therefore conclude we may sensibly feel the spirit continually; and the fault must be on the creature's side, if we do not, &c. But can a man have the Spirit to preach and pray when and where he will? It appears the apostles could not work miracles when and where they pleased; and in order that souls may be quick- ened, the word must be attended by the same power and Spirit, though in a different calling, consequently we must be under its in- fluence, direction, and impression. But how shall we know the light and Spirit of God from that of the devil? 1st. There is no true solid lasting peace, but in the knowing d!nd enjoyment of God: and the calls of t^e Spirit of God bring ten- derness and solemnity, and in following them there is great peace and content in the mind, which afibrds a joy and happiness that is very sweet and full of love: it draws them more after God, and BO; HISTORY OF COSMOPOl^lTE, they have greater affection for the future happiness of God's cxea^ tures; and to resist the Spirit of God's calls, brings, 1st, depreis- sion and burden; and (if persisted in) da.rkness and condemnation will come and overshadow the mind, and the tender place will be- come hard, and great bitterness and unhappiness will fill the mind: and as it is God's will and delight to make us happy, it is our duty to follow the leadings which give true content and solid joy to the inquiring mind; and they that do not, sin against God and wrong themselves. As for a person's having the discerning power posi- tively to know the state of the people, I know hot; but God know- eth the state and hearts of all, and his spirit may influence and im- press a person's mind to such and such discourses, or to speak to such and such states and cases of men, though we may not know the particular object; and as there is no particular form of church wor- ship or government pointed out in the Scriptures,, I therefore have no right to stick down a stake, and tie all preachers to that particular form, mode or rule, in public meetings; for what is one's meat is another's poison. In some cases amongst men, there is no general rule without an exception to it; what will be suitable at one time, will not always do at another; therefore we are daily to inquire the will of God, and follow the leading of God's Spirit. When God is about to make use of an instrument to some work, a little previous he frequently permits them to pass through great buffetings of Satan, and deep trials of mind. Trials denote good days; and good denotes trials at hand; but the darkest hour is just before the break of day. With regard to asking a blessing, either vocal or in silence, or rather giving of thanks, previous to eating is scriptural; but after, appears to be the addition of men; except it be inferred from the writings of Moses. Water baptism I have seen God acknowledge, by displaying his power, whilst the ceremony was administered by sprinkling, plung- ing, and pouring; but as Paul said, God has blessed my soul in the use of them, when I looked through the means to the end. But cer- emonies others contend enSugh about; and all I have to do is to «ave souls. If I could feel my mind released, oh! how soon would I retire to my father's house, or to some retired place and spend OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. n my days; but I feel woe is me if I preach not the gospel, v Seme can go or stop, as man directs, and preach, and have no seals Qt their ministry from year to year; and yet feel contented, and think all is well, but how they get along with it is unknown to me. But some I believe God accepts as christians, not as preachers. My mind is pained to see so many resting in means short of the power; and others so closely attached to particular forms. Oh! my bowels yearn over the different denominations; my soul mourns before God on Zion's account. I am willing to spend and be spent in the vineyard of the Lord: but I know in vain I labor except God's Snirit, attend the word and work. I belieVe God int^ds and will lead me by the stiU waters, in a way Ihave not fully known; and trials at hand I believe await me, and afterwards I trust God will bless my labors. From Moiintrafh, I called upon Mr. Averill on my way to Donoughraore. With him I had an agreeable conversation. Said he, "I believe you are sincere, but lie under a powerful temptation in coming a^ay from America." He gave me the liberty of his pulpit; from which I spoke to the people, and a refreshing time we had. In Donoughmore likewise, at two meetings. From hence to Durrow, where we had two meetings, and I received a kind re- ception, though a stranger. — Thence I walked to Kilkenny; my feet being bad I was detained here for several days, during which time, I had a number of meetings; the latter of which were very re^esh- ing, and one soul I since hear has been brought to good. At this place a stranger sent a horse with me twelve miles to Innisteague.— Thence I walked to Ross. Here a Quaker lived who had invited me from the yearly meeting; I spent near a week at his house, peru- sing some books which I found profitable. I once went into a prayer meeting in the Methodist chapel, and they gave me the hymn-book, which I took as providential; for I was imprest to speak concerning the dealings of God with me, though I sang not; thus God opens my door step by step. The next morn- ing I set out on my way some distance: the further I went the more deprest I felt, and the more impressed to return; and for peace of mind through necessity I went back, and requested permiss^n in the preaching house to call the people. n HISTORY OP COSMOPOLITE, After they had. considerable talk among themselves, and some with me, they opened the door; at first, the discipline seemed to hinder, and they durst not deny. The commanding officer of the town, with many of the quality and commonality, filled the meeting house full, to whom I spoke an hour or more; this was a refreshing, time, and not soon to b« forgotten < Very early next morning, feeling my mind clear of this place, I set out for Enpiscorthy, and found an opportunity to ride on a car, which greatly eased my feet. I spoke a few words in the Methodist meeting, and at night put up with a Quaker in whose house I spoke to a number of his ser- vanlsi thencd^alked to Carnew. Here I was received as a friend by a Methodist supernumerary preacher, who gave me the right hand oi fellowship; and in his house I had some meetings. Attempting to ride on a car from thence, I had not gone far before I was overta- ken with an express from the widow Lepnard, who wished to see me. Here I called another meeting, which was tender. Thence I walked to Gorey, where I spoke to a few hundred, and we had a solemn time. From thence to Eicon, holding one meeting on the way, and two here, which were not soon to be forgotten. Thence to Rathdrum. Here I spoke to a few, amongst whom was the preacher who had shut me out of love-feast at Mount Mel- lick. Here he pretended some friendship with color in his face. Thence to Wicklow, where Cooper preached, and then a Metho- dist; after which I was permitted. But some gentry being here, they could not bear the truth. From thence I came to Dublin about the 15th of July. Here I met Doctor Coke, who had just returned from America. By him I received a letter from my dear friend, J. Mitchell, who was so un- willing that I should come away; and another from R. Searle — These gave me some refreshment. About this time I received a letter frsm my parents and sister, which gave me comfort, to hear my parents were well and my sister still endured. Dr. Coke requested me to go as missionary to Halifax or Quebec; and upon conditions that I would promise obedience to what be should direct, for six years, would bear my expenses; and I sheuld OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 93 want BOthiDg of books, clothing, &c. Having twenty-four hours for consideration, I weighed the matter, and returned my answer in the negative; as in tender conscience I durst not leave the kingdom yet; believing it to be the will of God I should stay. At which time tears flowed plentifully, and it seemed as if my head was a fountain of waters. The doctor grasped me in his arms, gave me a hug, and went his way. At the time he made me the proposal, whilst we sat at breakfast, one preacher came and sat down by my side, and said, "what do you desire or request of the Conference, that they should do for you?" I replied, supposing him to be my friend, "Nothing; Only that the preachers shculd not speak against me, to blacken my char- acter; whereby to prejudice people against me, to hedge up my way and hurt my usefulness." He then removed to the opposite side of the table, and said, "if he attempts to travel in the name of a Methodist and preach in the streets, the mob will be upon him; and if they once begin, they will attack every preacher that comes along, and fall on our Irish missionaries next; and if they begin, it Vill be hard to stop them; and government will immediately conclude we are at the head of those disturbances or the occasion of them; by which means they will deem us enemies, and take away some of our privileges." "Whereas," said the doctor, "there was never such a thing known, when in the midst of external and internal wars and commotions, that preachers were permitted to travel and hold meetings as oft as they pleased." He then added, "I don't know but your travelling about, may do more harm than the conversion of five hundred souls may do good; take it upon all accounts, I can't say but I shall be under the necessity of writing to Lord Castle- reagh, to inform him who and what you are; that we disown you, &c., then you'll be arrested and committed to prison, and if you once get in jail it will be hard to get out. These things were mentioned for my consideration, during the above mentioned twenty-four hours. But the impression upon my mind was so strong to tarry, that if government had threatened to send me to prison in irons, as yet I durst not consent to go. After this it was talked over in Conference, and agreed that the connexion should show me no countenance, but disapprobation, 94 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, which they requested the doctor to tell me, though he never did his errand; but Tobias, upon finding out his mission, took upon himself to do it, without being appointed, and forbid me coming to Water- ford (where he was stationed) among the Methodists, or to the meeting house, and if I did he would preach against me in piiblic and in private. Upon this, several of the preachers who were friendly in their hearts, durst not show it outwardly, &c. Now according to appearance, my way was hedged up all around, my trials were keen; but God was my support^ in whom I put my trust, believing he would pave my way step by step. About this time I had a short sketch of the general run of my experience committed to the press, in order to give away for the benefit of mankind — it contained about twenty small pages; the edition was near three thousand — none of which I sold; but sent some of them to different parts of the country: The Force of Imagination. Mr. Dow was once in conversation with a learned Doctor, who contended, there was nothing real, but that all things were the force of imagination. Mr. Dow, for a time, strove to' convince him of his error by argument, but all in vain. As the Doctor with a great deal of self-importance laid his pipe upon the table, and turning his face toward the window, as he sat in his big arm chair, said, " There, Mr. Dow," pointing to the opposite side of the street, " is a wagon as I imagine, but it is all the force of," — While he was thus speaking, and before he could utter the rest of the sentence, Mr. Dow had picked up the pipe, which contained a good large coal of fire, and emptied the contents into the Doctor's boot. " What in the d — 1 (said the Doctor, as he precipitately tiu-ned round, and seized the boot with both hands), are you about." " Nothing but imagina- tion," said Lorenzo ; " Nothing but imagination ! " Sq saying, he I picked up his stick, and leaving the Doctor to contemplate the imaginary influence of a burned shin, traveled on to the place of his next appointment, and there preached from the Doctor's own text — The Force of Imagination. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. »6 CHAPTER VII. SMALL POX CONFINEMENT. I took a walk out of town, in order to preacn to a garrison ; but could not get them together : so I gave them some pamphlets, and set out to return ; and on my way from the pigeon-house I was sud- denly taken unwell, and thought I should have died on the spot ; and staggering along I got into Ringsend ; when after some little re- freshment in a grocer's shop, I gained some strength, and visited a couple of prisons, and got to my lodgings. This was the first Lord's day in August. I took tea with the family, and retired lo my chamber, where I was confined about thirty-two days, without the sight of the sun. In the beginning of this confinement, it was thought I had the measles, but an apothecary being called in, on examining closely, he said the eruption was too prominent for this, and therefore it must be something else, perhaps the small-pox: so my friends halt- ed between two opinions ; scarcely knowing what to do' — I being unwilling to have any physician who had not the fear of God before his eyes ; knowing I had suffered so much from them, with very little good. But a Quaker woman, who heard me, came to see me, ana saw, "I wish he was in the care of Doctor Johnson, and I should feei my mind easy." I, upon hearing the words, made some inquiry concerning the man, and consented he should comej and being sent for he came without delay; as he had heard of me just before, and was considering in his mind whether he should come of his own ac- cord and offer me his assistance. My eyes, at this time, were perfectly closed, and continued so about a fortnight, and for about ten days nothing passed through my bowels. Here I despaired of life, and expected to die; but the Lord was pre- cious to my soul as ever. Three things I desired to live for, which were: 36 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, 1st. I wanted to attain higher degrees of holiness, that I might be happier hereafter. 2nd. I felt the worth of souls, and an anxious desire to be use- ful to them. 3rd. My parents I wished to see once more in this world, lest when they heard of my death, it would bring them to the grav* with sorrow. But at length I was enabled to give them up, and leave them in the hand of God to protect and support. What I wished to die for was, to get out of this troublesome world and to be at rest, with the saints above; yet I felt resigned to go or stay, as God should see fit, sensibly feeling the presence of God and reading my title clear to the mansions of glory. The very sting of death was gone, so that it appeared no more to me to die than to fall asleep and take a nap. During this time there was something whispering in my mind, as though this sickness, by the will and wisdom of God, came, and would turn to his glory in this world, and yet I must travel to other countries to preach the gospel; but the possibility of it seemed so contrary to human appearance, that I did not give much heed to the whispering voice; but my soul was happy all the time. Some thought it strange that I did not speak more than I did about religion; but feeling my mind weak and my thoughts some- times to wander, was fearful lest I should speak amiss, and therieby hurt tender minds, as some had already said that I was better in my heart than in my head. After twenty-two days thus passing away, hope began to spring up in mj- mind, that I might recover, and yet labor in the vineyard of the Lord. The physician. Dr. Johnson, had attended me faithfully from the time he first came, setting up with me about ten whole nights, and visiting me repeatedly through the day; and as soon as he thought I was able, had me carried in a sedah chair to his own house, though he was neither in membership with the Quakers or Methodists. Here I continued seven weeks. I think for about twelve days after I came the blood would gush out of my sores, upon attempt- ing to rest the weight of my body upon my limbs; but upon the forty-fourth day of my sickness, I attempted to venture out with h«lp. During this space of time, God gave me favor in the sight of OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 9T flie people, though a stranger in this land, and having but one guinea when I was first taken ill, yet I wanted for nothing during the whole time. Oh! how different are the dealings of man to me now, from those in America, when confined with the billious fever. Surely there must be the hand of God in this. He let me know what it is to want and to abound, that I might feel^my weakness and depen- dence, and prize my privilege by feeling for my fellow mortals, and improve my time for eternity. I think of all the people I have met with for four years and seven months' travel, this doctor has showed me the greatest kindness and friendship, for which may God reward him in the day of eter- nity! After some little recovery, feeling a desire to do good, I asked for Whitefriar street preaching house, but was denied. Then for Lady Huntingdon's society meeting house, Plunket street, but could not get it. Thence I applied to the Quaker society, but they could not, consistent with their religious principles; yet they behaved very kind and friendly to me. Then I sought for a play house in vain; thus my way seemed to be hedged up. The first place that presented to view was the Weaver's hall, on the Coombe in the Liberty, which was occupied by the Separate Methodists, (by some called the Kilhamitps) but by tbemselveSj the New Connexion. Here I held several m-^etirgs; so:iie kughed, others stared; but in general were solemn and quiet^ and s,orae were melted to tenderness. I formed a covenant in one of thesj meetings which appeared not altogether fruitless. In their meetings, also, I had the liberty to speak what I felt. About this time, I received a letter from S, Hutchinson, dated New York, July 21st, in which I found that he was now reconciled to my coming, and sent my character to this country,, to A.ilam- ilton, doing me justice; which letter I showed to one of the station- ad preachers, and had my character read in a public assembly, to let people know what I was, as many had been scrupulous concern- ing me. At length, recovering my health to such a degree, I had thoughts •f leaving Dublin, and going to the country, but could not feel my H 98 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE, mind free, until I first had visited several prisons, and held a meet- ing at the doctor's house. October 16, I was twenty-three years old; the prophet's prediction was fresh in my mind, not only the year past, but now. What isi past and gone I know; butwhat is to come, I leave* the event to God, believing he who hath preserved me and brought me through the moun- tains or waves of affliction and trials, will still be with me, and grant me strength in proportion to my day, if I cleave to him with $[1 my heart, and have but the one thing in view, viz: the glory of God and the salvation of immortal souls. 18th. I have held a few meetings of late in Chapelizod, which seem to be not altogether in vain. On the 19th, I held my last there, and at the Coombe On the 20th, I visited several prisons, holding meetings with the prisoners, and gave them some bread and books, and called some of the most serious and decent of the neighborhood into the doctor's house at even, tO: whom I spoke about an hour, and all was solemn and quiet; so for the present I feel my mind released to go and visit the country. What is before me I know not; I expect tri- als and hardships in the way; but as soon as I can find my mind re- leased and free, and the door open, I intend to return to my native country. 22d. In company with my doctor, I went to Eathcool, but the woman of the house who had invited me, being absent, I met with a cool reception; however, I spoke to a few, and with grief went to Leixlip, where I had been invited; but the family holding some different sentiment, my situation here was trying too. At Lucan I was disappointed, and then began to grow discour- aged; querying in my own mind, whether the preachers were not right and I under a jnistake. Whilst spending some time solitary and walking the floor, I besought God if he would make my jour- ney prosperous, and give me favor in the sight of the people, to give me a token for good; and upon this I lay down to rest, and soon fell asleep, and dreamed I was walking up a river side through a smooth plain, and began to feel faint and weary, and meditated what I should do for refreshment; and suddenly coming to the door of a cottage which was open, I saw the table spread, and as I rap- ped, the mistress came and grasping me by the hand, gave me a OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 99 hearty welcome to my astonishment. Said I, "how do you know me?" Said she, "our little Jemmey (as I thought, a boy about twelve years old) dreamed last night that God sent two angels to us clothed in white, with a message to entertain a traveller, with «uch and such dress and features, who should come in the afternoon, and you answer the very description; therefore you are welcome." I then looked, and behold my robe was white, fine unspotted linen; and oh! how joyful I felt, to think angels were sent to prepare my way. I then awoke with my mind solemnly stayed on God; and my spirits refreshed to pursue the journey. Taking the canal boat at Hazel-hatch, I went to Athy, and on the way the passengew solicited me hard to play cards, I replied, I will 'play one game when you have done, but must have the captain's consent; they then looked and laughed, and played on, now and then turning a joke on me. I gave one of my pamphlets to the captain, and in the evening as soon as the gaming was over, after they had done playing, I offered to buy the cards, and the captain replied, I don't sell cards, but tvill give them to you; I thanked him, and played my game by throwing them out at the window into the canal. The company seemed to be thunder struck and conscience convicted, and their merriment was soon over. Solemnity seemed to rest on every countenance: they now and then forced out a word, as though they took my conduct as an imposition; but in a manner they seemed dumb or confounded; but I felt justified in my conduct. In Athy I met with a kind reception and had the liberty of a obapel which was not the Methodist's. 1 held two meetings, but the curate thought I was for party, as I preached up free salvation, he knowing it was a controverted point, and at first would not consent for a third meeting. *ili reviewing the matter, he would take no denial but I should huid a third. These meetings were quickening. Thence to Carlow, where I held three meetings; here I was troubled with the asthma, for the first time, to prevent ray rest since I came into this country; thus I perceive the seeds of death are in my body, which, if I am not faithful, I expect will carry me isud- denly hence. I walked to Hacketstown through the rain, thirteen long Irish 100 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, miles. I inquired for swaddlers (for if I asked for Methodists, the Romans there would immediately direct me to the worst enemy they had, through an evil spirit, ) and was directed to a house^Bot a member but a hearer — and asked for liberty to stay all night, as I could not hear of a man whb had invited me to come previously. The woman said, if you will accept of some straw, you may stay, which I thanked her for, as I felt so weary, I scarcely knew how to walk any farther; but the man seeing my thoughts of tarrying, ob- jected; I then rummaged my papers, found a few lines to a man out of town, who was not in a capacity to entertain travellers, so I walked to his father's, being pilotte'd by a lad who returned immedi- ately — about half a mile, and come to the door and rapped. The family were unwilling to let me in, as several persons the night be- fore had been robbed, and house robberies were frequent in that quarter. I now was called to an exercise of my faith, as there were several dogs to guard the house without, and apparently I should not be let in, as they questioned me back and forth through the door, with entreaties to go to a tavern, yet they could recollect none nearj but what was filled with soldiers. At length the old man, who was the only Methodist in the house, whilst sitting in the corner, felt these words run through his mind (as I was about to go and take up my lodgings on the bank of a ditch) repeatedly with power, "be not forgetful to en- tertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels una- wares;" he began to grow restless and uneasy, and finally prevailed on the family to open the door and see who and what I was. As I came in I saw fear in their countenances, and began to sing an American hymn and talk with them about their souls, and soon it was goiie. The old man says, " I think I have heard of you be- fore, from Mount Mellick." They entertained me all night. As I was going away in the morning, the old man said, " Will you not hold a meeting?" I said, if you will get the people convened. — During the day, two daughters were following the new fashions; observing the superfluities they were fixing on some new clothes, I said, every time you wear them, remember another suit you'll have, the muffler and the winding sheet, which seemed to sink in their minds; and since, I have had the satisfaction to hear, several ways, these young women were found walking in the ways of wisdom. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 101 In all I had four meetings here. In Tinnfihely I had two in a house, and one in the street. In Killiveany we had several refresh^ ing seasons. At Rednah we had two powerful meetings. At Eoundwood we had two likewise. At Castle Caven, the people were hard; but I hope some good was done. At Echon, I fell in with Mr. Matthew Langtree, who, I expected, would treat me with coldness, considering what had passed at Conference, but was agree- ably disappointed. He gave me liberty to travel on his circuit as long as I pleased. He, I think, is one of the holiest men I have met with in Ireland. He stroVe to persuade me to accept from him a razor, which some- thing within had in times past prevented me from using, and forbid it still, as it was a guard, sentry, or watch to remind me of my duty, and that if ever I fell away to become a backslider, (properly speak- ing) I should never be reclaimed. Arklow had lain with some weight on my mind for several weeks; I accordingly paid it a visit. No Methodist being in the town, I knew not where to go; but God put it into the heart of a man to open his ball chamber, in which I held several meetings, which were very tender. A man who had opened a malt house to other mission- aries, denied it to me. On my way to Carnew, a preacher who had treated me with cool- ness at Rossj and who had some trying reflections for it, took me upon his horse, and he himself walked six miles. He now gave me the right hand of fellowship, and I spoke for him at night. Here lives a widow who was strangely preserved during the re- bellion: she is liberal, 1st, in sentiment — 2d, in alms — 3d, in plain dealing. She has built a large preaching room, which is open to all; is prudent in temporal and eternal matters, and in religious things sees men as trees walking. Here some blamed me for not being more cheerful, and take a glass of wine, and dress more ministerial, &c. But there is a some- thing within which is tender, and to grieve it, or go contrary to it, pains me, and I know not but condemnation may follow if I persist in going contrary to its dictates. Here I had several refreshing seasons. A few days since,- as I was credibly informed, there was heavenly melodious music heard, from whence could not be ascer- tained; and at the same time a young woman died happy. 102 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, AtCastletowni Arklow-roch, Ballymurtah, Minnerrock, ..and Sally-mount, we had melting times. . In Wicklow, two solemn meetings. In Gorey, I held three in a house, and, one in the street. The chief commanding officer, as the sergeant satd, was coming to Ttop me, and when within a few yards turned and went off mutter- ing. At Clough, I had one meeting. In Ballinew, two. Clinganny, one. Ballymore, one. Ferns, two. Newtonbarry, four, and one '\n its vicinity, which was quickening. At Enniscorthy, after holding two meetings, I went out of town on my way, but going burdened and distressed, returned back and leld two more for the ease and enjoyment of my mind. , I went on Vinegar Hill, and took a view of the place where much blood was shed on account of religion. — Oh! when will the *,ime come, when the earth shall be of one heart and one mind, and *he nations learn war no more. Many who say they are enlight- ened, being still in darkness, rest contented, ; and fight for the form af religion but know not the power nor the purity, of it. At Wexford, I met M. Lanktree again; I told him he must pre- pare for a scolding at the next Conference, provided he gave me such liberties. He replied, I dare not oppose you; 'tis evident God is with you; and I look upon your coming here as providen- tial, and so does my wife, as she has found it a blessing to her Soul, and I entreat you to tarry longer on the circuit; and as we were about to part to see each other no more, as we supposed, he could hardly refrain from weeping. I held three meetings here, and one at the barony of Forth which was the most refre^ing I had seen for some time. On my way to Ross, I saw one sitting by the wayside, reading the Bible, to whom I gave a pamphlet. As I called at a tavern to refresh, I found a young man under some convincement. I conversed plainly with him, though a stran- ger, and gave him a pamphlet. At Ross, I held three meetings, and some said I was Quakeri- zed; others sa;d I was too much of a Methodist; and some said that I was a mystic' From thence I set off for Waterford, where M. Tobias was sta- tioned, as this place lay upon my mind for several weeks. I was OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 108 now called to a trial of my faith, as I did not expect one Methodist in the place would receive me. But this afforded me some comfort, that I could appeal to the Searcher of hearts, 1 had no other end in view, than to do his will, believing it my duty to go. Having a letter to a class leader, which was not particularly directed, as to his residence, I inquired for the man; one said, he lived in one street; another said, in another; thus I wandered up and down the town for some time, and suddenly I discovered a man; a thought arose, that man won't lie; I ran to him and showed the letter; said he, do you think I know the man? I told him I wanted information; he asked me several questions, and pilotted me to tlie door. The man of the house read the letter, and after tea took me to the preacher's house to hear what he would say; and be- hold it was the man I had seen in the street, Zachariah Worrel. He gave me the right hand of fellowship. I told him to look what he did, lest others should blame him. I spoke at night, and on Sabbath morning too; but at night he durst not give me the lib- erty, as then was the great congregation. On Monday evening through the intercession of the leaders, I held a third meeting, and appointed for the fourth; the house was well filled, and in the con- gregation were several Quakers. There was a considerable move- ment among the people. The next morning, I held my last meeting; the class leaders of their own accord, gave me a recommendation; first, that they believ- ed I preached the gospel as held by the Methodists; and second, that my labors were blessed to the people. Here I had several valuable articles of clothing and money of- fered to me, which I refused; however, about eleven shillings were forced on me. I visited several backsliders and lefl the place. In Pilltown, we had a shaking tiiiiie; here I pasted up some print- ed rules for holy living, in the streets, as I had done some writ- ten ones in several other places. To Carrick-on-Suirj I had several letters, which paved my way to getting the preaching house, in which I had five meetings that were tender. The chief person of the society, when I first came here was absent; but on coming home, offered me two shirts and some money, which I refused. Said he, " it argues a sound heart, but a weak head; and if I had been at home when you first came, 104 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE, I would not have given you the preaching house, as that would have been an encouragement to impostors; but you might have preached in my private bouse as often as you pleased." I had sev- eral other things offered by other persons also, which I refused^' and went to Clonmel; having about five hundred papers printed — rule/s for holy living. Here I got the preaching house, likewise; which some previously said I would not get, however the congre- gations were larger than had been known for many months; and the power of God was sensibly present. Earnest entreaties were made for my tarrying longer; but feeling my mind free, after holding three meetings, and after pasting up some rules, I quitted the town. I had accepted a small note and two shillings, but feeling burdened in my mind, gave up the former to the person. At night I put up with a Roman Catholic, at Capperquin, which took all the money I had, amounting to two shillings and sixpence, English. On my way to Tallow, a magistrate overtook me: Q. What have you got in your bundle? A. Papers. Q. What papers? A. Eules for holy living. Q. Where did you sleep last night? A. At Capperquin. Q. You made good speed this morning — where was you born? A. North America. Q. What did you come here after? A. Partly upon account of my health, and partly by an impres- sion on my mind, believing it to be the will of God. Q. What do you do here? A. I tr}' to persuade people to serve God. Well, said he, that is a good practice; but do you meet with much success? I replied, I am striving to do what I can; but it is the Spirit of God that must accomplish the work. He then proposed several of the questions again and again, with some others, I sup- pose, to see if I would contradict myself. I then gave him a paper and a pamphlet, and told him, if he wanted further information, to search me. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 105 ' He said, there are many who go about to stir up the minds of' the lower class (alluding to politics, riot and rebellion) but my mind is satisfied concerning you, and so he rode on. In Tallow, Iheld two meetings, the house being opened to me; but now I had another trial; my feet being so sore, apparently I could walk no farther: but a man who was going my road, took me up before him on a horse, and carried me six miles: and another man aflerward^fit me get upon his car now and then; and now and then I would ^Vble along a spell; so I got to Cork late in the evening; and haviflU letter to a mstn, I was provided with food and lodging. Next uay, I went to see the assistant preacher, who was also chairn\an of the district. Said I, "what privilege will you grant me?" Said he, "go away, and come at such an hour, and I will tell you;" which I did. Said he, I have talked with some of our most respectable friends, who think it not proper to give you any encouragement, as it would be too great encouragement to impos- tors; and we think you to be out of your sphere. But, said I, sup- pose I hold meetings in town, not to intrude upon your meeting hours, nor yet say anything against you; neither lay down contrary doctrines? Said he, it will be taken as opposition, if you hold any meetings any where at any time here; so I parted with him; this being Saturday evening. Sabbath morning I heard one preach, and then took breakfast with a Quaker, who treated me cool enough: I attended their meet- ing, and then by an impression upon my mind took upwards of an hundred of my handbills, or printed rules, and went through the town distributing them to the gentry, and heard a preacher at night* The next morning, feeling the want of some money, I attempted to sell my watch, but could find none that would buy it. At length I went into another watch-maker's, who looked at me and said, tell me your cheapest price: I said a guinea, it not being half the value. He asked me what countryman I was; I burst out a crying;' he • then gave me a breakfast, a guinea and a shilling. He asked then rriy religipn; and I gave him a pamphlet and paper; and requested a guide out of town, to which I gave half the guinea; with orders to catry it to the man who had provided my bed and boards as he had a wife and three others of his family sick at that time. In the night I arrived at Oandon^ and inquired for Methodists; 106 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE the woman said, What do you want with them? A. To tarry all nighti Q. Are there any near? A. There is one near you. Q. Did you ever hear of an American in this country? A. Yes. Q. What is he doing? A. Wandering up and down striving to do good, and he has had the small pox of late. Q. Are you he? A. Yes. Come, walk in. I felt thankful to God that he had provided me lodging for the night, &c. Next day I went to see the preachers; one of whom^eated me rather cool; the other said, I can give you no encourag^pnt, and I will give no opposition; I am willing you should go round the cir- cuit and do all the good you can. From this I perceived' that he felt more love in his heart than he durst show out. But in a dream of the night, my mind was so impressed, that I quitted the towp early in the morning, leaving my staff behind and bidding none farewell. It took me more than seven hours to walk nine miles to Kinsale: on the way, I was near being stopped by a magistrate. I sat down by the road side and reflected thus: here I am, a stranger in a strange land; but little money and few that show me friendship; I am going now to a place, and I have no ground to expect recep- tion: I cannot walk much farther; I cannot buy a passage to a dis- tant part; and what shall I do, seeing I have no way to get bread? — Once I had a father's house and tender parents; and how would they feel if they knew my present case? Unless God works wonders for me soon, I shall surely sink." Then I lifted up my voice and wept. The first Methodists I met in town treated me coolly: but recol- lecting to have seen a young woman in Dublin, who lives here, I inquired and found her. She at first was sorry to see me; she being in a low uncomfortable state of mind, and her parents not Metho- dists. However they invited me to tarry; and so it happened by the overruling hand of Providence, that I got the preaching-house first, by talking with the members individually, and provoking them to say, I have no objection if the rest have none; and then by ma- king bold to stand up on Christmas night, after a local preacher had dismissed the people, and spake a few words, and formed a cov- enant with the assembly to pray three times a day for a week^ and the greater part of which agreed, and I called God to witness to the engagement. And when the society met to speak on the privilege of the meeting house, there was none to object. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 107 Early the next morning many came out to meeting, and at even- ing likewise, and thus for several days together; and God's power was felt by'several who were quickened to start afresh for the king- dom of glory. I held one meeting, to preach to the children. The preacher who had treated me with slightness at Brandon, came to the stairs and listened. At a love-feast there never was such a refreshing time known before. I wished for a passage to Dublin, a vessel being ready for sea; but the owner would not consent that the master should take me on board; saying, where they have priest, minister, or preacher on board, there is no proiperity or good luck; and the vessel was wind bound for several days. During my stay here, I frequently thought every meeting would be the last and would appoint no more, hoping by some means to get away; but no door opened. I received invitations to breakfast, dine and sup more than I supplied. At length some people, (not in society, ) procured me a passage, unknown to the owner, by per- suading the captain to take me on board, and provided sea-stores, and then gave nie information that the wind was coming fair, and if I would that I could now sail for Dublin. The people at a ven- ture would come out to meeting, and seemed as though they could not keep away. I requested my departure might be notified that night; and within two hours after hearing that the captain would take me, went on board and was under sail; and after fifty -two hours' passage from Oyster Haven, I landed in Dublin, and went to my old home, Doctor Johnson's, where I was cordially received, having been absent eleven w^eeks and two days, and travelled by land and water about seven hundred English miles. . It lying weightily upon my mind, what the Cork preacher said, I wrote to him to the following purport : f "I don't see how in justice you could take it as wicked opposi- tion, if I did or said nothing against the Methodists, provided I held meetings, without judging me hard. I acknowledge you treat- ed me with less severity in harsh words than I expected; but lest you should write letters before me and hedge up my way, I*eft Cork as I did; and now remember, if souls be lost in constequence of it, that will lie at your door, for God knows, if I could have 108 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, kept my peace of mind, I would not have left America, but in tei>. der conscience I was constrained to come." The person who carried the above delivered it as follows* Sir, here is a letter from Lorenzo. Preacher. Oh! is he in Kinsale? (reads the letter without changing countenance,) he is displeased I did not let him preach: did he preach in Kinsale? Bearer. Yes, sir, to large congregations, and a prospect of good. Preacher. I'm glad there is a good prospect-"— he has been a zealous preacher in America, and came away against rule, or order of his assistant — he follows his own feelings too much — he ii Quakerised. Bearer. I believe, sir, he is led by the dictates of the Spirit^ for his labors are owned of God. Preacher. Poor man, he fatigues himself; I told him he ought not to walk so much: I bid him call on me in the morning, in order to give him some assistance; but was too ill to see him. Bearer. I don't think Lorenzo would accept of it, sir, he is not a burden to any of our societies. Preacher. I hear he is abstemious, and will not take sufficient nourishment: he wont take clothes, and such a poor figure as he cuts! why when he went to Bandon and stood at the people's door, they could not tell what to make of him; and so he concluded with saying something about my heart and head. January, 1801. The greater part of this month I spent in this city. I went to see John Dinnen, who treated me with more friend- ship than ever before; yet there seemed to be something out of or- der between us. Here I found Alice Cambridge, (who lives with Mrs. Stafford, from whom I received manifest kindness,) who had been very hardly treated in the south; and turned and kept out of society for no other cause than because, in conscience, she could not desist from holding public meetings. She was kind to me during my illness, and was the cause of the preachers first coming to see me. Oh! prejudice and austerity, when will you be done away! By the means of Alice, I procured a large room for meeting, in Stephen street, where thrice I spote to some scores. In Chapel street twice —some seemed to feel the word; others were angry. In Thofl|i|8 OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 109 itreet, I met a few. In New street, I had four meetings; some people were solemn; others noisy.. I spoke twice at the Coomb^S three times at Spitalfields; twice in Ranford street; once in Cathe- dral Lane, besides family visits, at which came in a few in difier- •nt parts of the city. At Elephant Lane I had two solemn and attentive meetings. For some months I had a desire to preach at Blackrock; but saw BO way till now; the young curate, by the name of Mitchell, whom I had seen in Athy, gave me the privilege of Mr. Kelly's chapel: in which I spoke to an attentive and serious people. Having it impressed upon my mind for several months, to give the inhabitants of Dublin a general meeting; I never saw my way dear to proceed until now, and believing the judgments of God hanging over the place, I got about three thousand hand-bills prints cd, such as lay upon ray mind, and the greatest part I distributed among the quality and decent kind of people, which I left either in their shops or houses, and one I enclosed in a letter, and gave it to a sentinel in the castle yard for the Lord-lieutenant; but fearing he would not get it, got a second framed and directed in gilt letters^ for the Lord-lieutenant, sealed in black wax and paper, and tied tape around it— — ^this I left in the porter's lodge. I got. two others framed in blacky and directed in gold letters; one for the merchants, the other for the lawyers: the first I hung up in the Royal Exchange; the other I left on the floor in the sight of the lawyers, in the hall of the four courts, and walked out — it be- ing court time. A local preacher said, he was willing I should have a meeting in his house, if it would not grieve his brethren; at the leader's meet- ing it was ojected to. At John Jones's, my printer, in Bride street, I held my last meeting, which was solemn and refreshing, having had near thirty since this time of coming to town. Feeling my mind at present free from the city and college (as I had left a pamphlet on every floor in the letter box) and bound to the west of Ireland, I took leave of a number of my Dublin friends, saying, I know not I shall ever see you again in time; but several •aid it was impressed on theic minds I should return to th& city hem fore I went to America. 110 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE February 1st. I took leave of my dear Paul and Letitia, who had showed every particular kindness and attention to me during this visit, which parting was painful to me, and taking the canal boat, I arrived at TuUaraore after night fall. This day one pas- senger called for a pack of cards, another reproved him, saying, it is Sabbath day; this opened the door for me to distribute some of my hand bills and pamphlets; some of which passed into the first cabin, which influenced the passengers to send for me in there. — Some of these cross questioned me concerning my leaving America, and travelling through the kingdom, with other parts of my conduct which they had heard of; I endeavored to return my answers to the purpose, and yet in such a manner as should be profitable to the whole. God was my helper, and his power seemed to come over them. These people spread over the town what a strange man they had in company. The Methodists, who heard it, came to the house where I was confined with sickness to my bed near all day, and asked if I would hold a meeting at night. I said yes, provided you will give me the preaching house, and get the people notified. Here prejudice had formerly shut the door and the hearts of the people against me. In the evening the seats were filled;' the next night the house was filled; the third night all the people could not get in. The next morning early the seats were filled and I gavfe my last; the day but one preceding, I put up some of the rules for Holy Living in the market place, which occasioned a Protestant and a Eoman or two to come first to words and then to blows; and then one of the Romans, who held the Protestant whilst the other beat him, was obliged to run into his house and not show his head in the market all day, lest the Orangemen should give him a beating; he was one of the richest merchants of his profession in the town; I spoke that day in the street to near fifteen hundred people, generally well behaved; here I was offered half a guinea, and the offer of a return carriage to carry me sixteen miles, which I refused, knowing that example goes before precept; and that the eyes of many are upon me. I walked nineteen miles to Birr, but here met with a cool reception; likewise to Cree, to which I had a letter to their friend; nevertheless was cool enough received. Well, said I, I have come about twenty-two miles out of my way to see you; and if it were OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. Ill convenient, should be glad to hold a meeting, but if you call not the people together, I shall be pure; and leaving them immediately, after giving them two pamphlets, I reached Eyrecourt that night. The next day I walked twenty-two miles, and got benighted; I called at a farm house and got liberty, for money, to tarry all night, but found no freedom to eat in the house, except two or three roast- ed potatoes. Next morning walked on and a car overtook me, and I hired \ driver to carry me into Tuam, at which town, upon my arrival, I felt a sudden halt in my mind, inquired for Methodists, and after getting some refreshments found one, who treated me kindly and got me the preaching hous^and ten score of hearers that night. For several days past, feeling the necessity of a preacher's being assisted by the supernatural grace of God, or else his labors to be of little effect, and feeling my own weakness, trials began to arise and discouragements to desist, but here God revived my spirits by granting the quickening influence of his grace to assist me to go through the meetings both at night and morning. At Hollymount we had two solemn meetings, though the class leader had treated me with some neglect. At Castlebar, where Mr. Russell and his wife were kind and friendly more than I expected, I held a number of meetings which were refreshing and powerful; here one woman said she had seem me in a dream two weeks before. At Newport good was done; here I was met by Sir Neal, who observing me to have a bundle of papers under my arm, which I had got printed a few days before as a warning to the people of the country, being more and more convinced there is an awful cloud gathering over the land. He questioned me very sharp and harshly what those were, and who and what I was; and after taking me to his house and examining different pape;rs, said he believed I was an honest man, and gave me a pass. At Nappoh the people were cold and hard; at Westport in the day of eternity, I expect the fruit of two meetings will appear. At Tullah, a country place, about two hundred came out at night, and as many the next morning, though the ground was white with frost. At Goppavico the Lord's power was felt, and at Menalo we had 112 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, memorable times. About this time I fell in with the Eev.< Mtj Averill, who entreated me to tarry longer on the circuit, saying^ the cries of the people are after you, which I look upon to be the voice of .God in their hearts, for it is evident God is acknowledging you amongst Ihem, and if you will tarry another year, I'll give you a ^inea a month, to bear your expenses, and provided the next Con- ference set their faces against you as they did the last, I'll pay your passage home to America. I told him, I believed the time was near, that it was the will of God I should return home; therefore durst not engage to tarry. At Foxford, we hadgood times — at Bellina, we had three pow- erful meetings. About this time, I had some articles of clothing and money offered to me; but a small part felt free to accept, though I would have to live by faith about my passage. 2 walked about thirty Irish miles in a day, and coming to Sligio, I met Mr. Averill, again. He preached and administered the sa- crament, the latter of which was refreshing. In the evening I spoke in the court house to about a thousand people, and entreated them to prepare for trials, which I expected were coming on the land.. The next morning after speaking to about two hundred, went to Manor- Hamilton, where was a great ado about religion, and some gbod doing. I attempted to speak at night, and about two-thirds through my discourse, I was suddenly stopt, like one confounded, and other preachers carried on the meeting, and Concluded it. The next morning, feeling greatly distressed in mind, I wrote a letter for Mr. Averill, leaving it on the table, and quit the house before the family was up, and walked twenty-one miles to Ennis- killeti, where I spoke to a few at night, not in vain. The next morning, speaking to a number more, I went to Tempo, and at a tavern where I took some refreshment, I missed my pocket book, in which were a number of letters to people's friends in America. At night I called in a market town, and after distributing a number of hand bills, called at a house, and for the sum of thirteen shil- lings English, could have supper and lodging, and breakfast, and liberty of holding two meetings. The man was a Methodist; the woman a Presbyterian. The Methodist then besought me to tarry » day or two, in vain. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. lis Partly in the rain, I walked twenty-one miles to Dungannon, and whilst distributing hand-bills through the town I met a soldier who knew me, though it was night, and took me to a Sergeant's house, who said, "When we lay at Chapel-izod last year, when you came there and formed the covenant, a corporal who agreed thereto, after- wards became serious and died in peace," Here I had an ulcer broke in my lungs whilst I was asleep, which had like to have strangled me at first. I felt cold chills after this running through my body, and feverish, and my bodily strength greatly reduced. The sergeant, who a few days previous, was wishing that he knew where I was, that he might send for me to come to that place, asked the circuit preacher if I might have the meeting house, who said, "by no means;" however, the sergeant knowing my desire to hold a meeting, after the preacher had dis- missed the people, spoke out, and said: Take notice, there is an American in town, who will hold a meeting to-morrow evening, but the place is not determined on; then walking and whispering to the preacher, said, will you forbid its being here? who replied, I shall neither approve nor oppose it. The sergeant turned to the people and said, It will be here. I had four meetings in the house, and two in the street, which were solemn and attentive. I held several in the neighborhoods of this place, which seemed to be attended with some degree of power; at one of which, a Sece- der's school house, would not contain the people, and church service just being over, I got the liberty of its pulpit, which I looked upon as singular and providential. I spoke to near seven hundred peo- ple, and mentioned, I believed trials were near. Thence I proceed- •d to Lisburn and put up with one who had been a Quaker, but had withdrawn. He appeared to be a conscientious man, but the scrip- tures bear but little weight with him, and the Divinity of Christ he seems to stumble at. Thence to Belfast; on my way I called at Larabeg to inquire concerning a singular circumstance, respecting one's losing their hair, which was thought to be supernatural; it has produced a great effect on the man of the house. I 114 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, CHAPTER VII. EETUEN TO AMERICA. All the vessels in Belfast harbor were full of passengers, except two; one of which was so dear, and her provisions not such as I re- quired, she I declined. But a Quaker said, Lorenzo, I would not wish to transport thee, but if thy mind is clear to go home, I'll make thee out a passage; thee speak to thy friends and I to mine; which I did, but no notice was taken of it. Then the Quaker with a friend gave me two guineas to engage my passage on board the other; but the captain who was bending towards Quakerism, observing I had the small-pox some months before, refused to take me; saying I kpow not but the infection may still be in your clothes, and five •f my hands have not had it, and if they should be taken unwell, I shall be knocked up on my voyage. About this time, I received three letters from Dr. Johnson, giving some account of my last visit in Dublin, and with an anxious de- sire for my return; but if I did not see my way clear to come, might draw on him for as much as should be needful for my voyage, and receive it either as a gift or loan, whichever might be most agree- able to me: but I in a letter replied, "I cannot see my way clear to ask the Methodists for much help, lest they should lay claim to me and seek to tie my hands; and to ask too much of the Quakers, I must look all around; and for you to pay it out of your own pocket I cannot consent, no, not in my mind: but if the people are willing to do the same, shall look upon it as providential." In one of his letters, he expressed a .desire, if consistent with the Divine will, he with his dear Letitia might see me once more, to take leave of me, and see me properly equipped under their own in- spection. Accordingly, as my way now seemed hedged up in the north, and feeling my mission to be nearly ended, unless it were a desire to visit two or three neighborhoods, and feeling that I could go without condemnation, I took the mail coach to Lisburn, where I held a meeting in what is called the new connexion, which wa« solemn and tender. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 116 Thence, being an outside passenger, I came to Dublin the nwrt day, chillisd and tired, and if it had not been for the kindness of tke guard, accommodating me with his seat, I must have given out en my way. About six o'clock in the morning I arrived at my friend Doctor Johnson's, to their agreeable surprise. Here follows one thing sJ' the Doctor's singular conduct, in sending some notices to persons of different persuasions, that, "if any person of ability had a desire, and would consider it a privilege to assist in sending Lorezo Dow comfortably home to his own country, such assistance would be «- cepted by Letitia Johnson, 102, New Street." In consequence of this, they received some^vhat more than the voyage required. I held two meetings in Bridge Street, the latter of which was sol- wnn and tender, and the two Dublin preachers were present. March 28th. It was now rising of sixteen months since I first oame on to the Irish shore, and whilst others have been robbed and murdered, I have been preserved by land and sea. Though a few days ago, I was informed, the crew with whom I sailed, when driv- en into the Isle of Man, were plotting to throw me overboard, if an Englishman had not interposed. I have known of less hunger in' this country of scarcity, than ever for the space of time in my own» since, travelling. To-morrow, God willing, I expect to embark for America. — What is past, I know; what is to come, I know not. I have endu- red trials in my own country, and have not been without them in this, even from those whom I love and wish well, both outward and inward, temporal and spiritual; but my trust is still in God, who I believe will support me, and give me a blessing upon my feeble la- bors in my native land, though I expect to wade through deep wa- ters there. I know not but I may come to Europe again, though there is but one thing which will bring me, viz: to save my soul. April 2nd. I took ray farewell leave of Paul and Letitia John-, son, and William and Nancy Thomas, with whom it was hard parting, and embarked for America on board the ship Venus, S. Taber, master, 250 tons burden, seventy-three passengers, mostly Roman Catholics. 3rd. At one o'clock, A. M., took in our anchors, hoisted sail. 116 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. and in about fifteen days after losing sight of land, we were half across the ocean, when the wind came against us, so that we were driven to north and south, about two weeks, making but very little headway. 26th. I held meeting on board; good attention appeared among those who could attend. After forty-seven days' passage, we hove in sight of land, and shortly after came t6 the quarantine ground, Staten Island, where I was detained thirteen days; during which time I got relief from some persons in New York, whereby I escap- ed those vermin that are troublesome on long voyages with a num- ber of people, &c. On our passage, my life was despaired of, through costiveness, ( as in thirty-three days no means of medicine answered but thrice, ) but some gentlemen on board, who with the captain, showed me kindness. After holding two meetings', and my dothes cleansed, I got permission from the doctor to come into the city, where I was cordially received by S. Hutchinson, and some other kind friends; but they durst not open the preaching-house doors to me for fear of the censure of the Conference now at hand. Dr. Johnson, who had given me a paper signifying that if I were brought to want in any part of Ireland, could draw on him for any sum I chose, by any gentleman who traded in Dublin, which paper I never made use of. He sent a library of books by me, with or- ders to sell them, and make use of the money to buy me a horse to travel with, &c., and if I had a mind to, might remit it to him in a future day. These books were of a singular service to aid me in my travels, which I thought to be my duty, viz: instead of being confined on a circuit, to travel the country at large, to speak on cer- tain points which I considered injurious to ths kingdom of Christ in this world, &c. Not knowing the value of these second-hand books, one took the advantage of my ignorance to get them under price; but my friends insisted he should give up the bargain, to which he with a hard demand of ten dollars consented, with the proviso that Kirk, who sold them for an hundred and fifteen dollars, should have no profits; Oh! the cursed love of money! I paid the Doctor ifterwards. June 16. Conference came on, and some of my old friends were minded I should take a circuit; but did not blame me for going t© Earope, considering the advantage I had got to my health, &c, I OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. llf could feel ftij wind freely to comply, feeling it my duty to travel more extensively. Their entreaties and arguments were hard to resist; and on the oth<>r hand the discouragements if I rejected, or discomplied, would be great. It would not only by them be deem- ed wilful, and must expect their disapprobation; but still be like the fowls of the air, to trust Providence for ray daily bread. Here I was brought to halt between two opinions, thinking it was easier for one to be mistaken than twenty; yet I felt it my duty to travel the continent at large. Here my trials were keen. A pamphlet of my experience coming to America, Kirk was minded to reprint it; but bishop Whatcoat said I belonged to them, and they ought to ha\l! the first privilege of printing my experience: and being under great trials of mind, concluded to give up my judg- ment to their's, and take a circuit; which I had no sooner consented to try for a year, the Lord being my helper, than an awful distress came over my mind; but I could not recall my words. My mind being somewhat agitated, gave the bishop somewhat encouragement relative to my journals, of which on reconsideration I repented, as the time was not yet. I was restored by the Conference where I was on going away, viz: remaining on trial. The Conference was more friendly than I expected, when on my voyage home; but I did not make any ac- knowledgement that I did wrong in going away. Some thought 1 had broke discipline; but on re-examination it was found I had not, one on trial has a right to desist as well as they to reject. My station was on the Dutchess and Columbia circuit, with Da- vid Brown and William Thatcher — Freeborn Garretspn presiding elder* Thus distressed, I sailed to Rhinebeck, on which way, one attempting to go on board the vessel, was knocl;ed out of the boat and carried down the stream more than a mile before he could be picked up. Oh! what dangers we are in! how uncertain is life! — When I arrived at the Flats, I called at a Methodist's, and got meeting appointed for the night. One of the principal Methodists came to inquire, who is stationed on our circuit? I replied. Brown, Thatcher, and Dow. Said he, Dow! I thought he had gone to Ire- land. I replied, he has been there, but has lately come back. — Said he, Dow! Dow! why, he is a crazy man; he will break up the circuit; so we parted. After meeting, I appointed another at 118 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, the new meeting house then building, which tried them at my bold- ness, (they not knowing who I was, but supposed a local preacher) and intended Mr. G. should preach the first sermon there, for the dedication. Next day, some desired to know my name, which I desired to be excused from telling. I held a number of meetings in this place, mostly cold and lifeless, though we had some good and pious friends; yet I could not speak with life and power, as for- merly; but felt as if I was delivering my message to the wrong peo- ple. For it had been in my mind to return to my native town, and there begin, and travel extensively; first in the adjacent places, and so abroad, as I might find Providence to open the door. When I got to this place I had two shillings left, and hearing, of a place called Kingstoh-sopus, I was minded to visit it, contrary to the advice of my friends, and having got a few together with difii- culty, and leaving two other appointments, returned, having paid away all my riioney for ferriages, and when the time commenced in which I should go and fulfil the appointments, saw no way to get across the ferry, and whilst walking along in meditation on past providences, and raising my heart that a way might be opened for my getting across the ferry, cast my eye upon the sand, and espied something bright, and on picking it up found it to be a York shil- ling, the very sum I wanted in order to cross over. And when I had fulfilled my first appointment and was going to the second, a stran- ger shook hands with me, and left near half a dollar in my hand, so I was enabled to get back. Thus I see that Providence provides for them that put their trust in Him. Having some scripture pic- tures framed sent by me from Europe to dispose of, some I gave away, and the remainder I let go to a printer for some religious hand bills in Poughkeepsie, some of which I distributed through the town, and hearing the sound of a fiddle I followed it, and came to a porch where was a master teaching his pupils to dance. I gave some hand-bills, which he called after me to take away, but I spoke not a word but went oft^ Here the people are hardened. At Fish-kill and the Highlands, the people were hard, and appa- rently sorry to see me. At Clove and Snarling-town likewise; I visited some neighboring places, and had some tender meetings. — At Amenia and Dover the Methodists seemed shy; I put up at a tavern several times. Swago, I visited from house to house, but OB, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 119 have not the art nor the spirit of visiting as when in the north oountry. Sharon — I found two classes herej the first, hard, and sorry to see me; the other, tender with Christian love. In Salisbury and Ca- naan, Connect., I had sundry meetings^ but still felt as if not in my right sphere. A report that crazy Dow had got back from Ireland brought many out to hear. Mount Washington, SheflSeld, and Egremont, Mass., I visited; thence to Hudson, and so to Rhine- beck. After quarterly meeting, I went home to see my friends, and found my parents well, and one sister, who had become more seri- ous within the course of a few months; which was a matter of con- solation to me. The expectations of the Methodists was raised, expecting such times as we had before, not looking enough beyond the watchman; once some were prejudiced against me, but now top much for me, so I was clogged with their expectations and shut up. Walking to Norwich, gave away my pocket handkerchief to get a breakfast, ana look shipping to New London, where we had three meetingg that were large and tender. One who was near and dear to me did not come to see me, neither durst I go to see him, which caused me . New York, to Solomon Braintree there, who opened his house for meeting, and showed me the greatest kindness of any man, since I came south; I went through the town and dispersed some hand bills through the town, which brought many out to meeting. I vis- ited Vienna and Lisbon, and continued my course towards Augus- ta, though strongly entreated to tarry longer, with the offer of a horse t6 ride about sixty miles, but could not find freedom to tarry, or accept, yet about ten dollars I was constrained to receive, lest in attempting to do good, I should do harm. Some good impressions appeared to be made. I called at a house on the road, where I saw a woman ask a blessing at a table, and I, to give her a sounding, talked somewhat like a deist; she was a Methodist, and was going to turn me out of doors, when a man said, he is one of your own party; which was the preventive. I tarried all night, which she would take nothing for, but gave me some advice, as she halted be- tween two opinions who I was. Calling for some breakfast on the road, the old man insisted I should pay before I eat, which I did, and asked the cause of a collection of youths so early; the reply was, to revive the yesterday's wedding. After some talk, I gave them some handbills; the old man took one and began reading like a hero, when feeling conviction, could hardly go through; I prayed with them, and went on my way, and some of the young people who came for the resurrection of the wedding, as they called it, follow- ed me out of doors, with tears, and the old man forked back the quarter dollar which I had paid him for my breakfast. Tuesday, March 2d. As I was sitting down to rest, by the forks of some roads, four persons were passing by me, and I overheard the word meeting, which induced me to ask, if they -were going to meeting; but the answer was cool; so I followed after them, and going along to see what they were after, about half a mile out of my road, I came to a large assembly of people at a Presbyterian meet- ing house, waiting ih vain for their minister; I gaVe them some hand bills, the people read them, and then showed them through the assembly; and some persons present who had heard of me before, told it; so I was invited to speak, with this proviso, that I must ^ve over if the minister came. I spoke nearly an hour on free saJ vation, but the minister did not come. I received an invitation to OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 138 a Methodist meeting house, where I had two meetings, and somt dated their awakenings and conversion from that time. From man we may receive favors, and ask again and be denied with resent- ment; but the more we expect from God, the more we shall have in answer to faith and prayer, in sincere patience, in submission to the will of God; and the longer I pursue the course of religion, the more I am convinced of the truth of these scripture passages, that all things shall work together for good to them that love God, if we don't bring trials on ourselves needlessly, and no good thing will God withold from them that walk uprightly. Lord increase my faith, I expect trials are at hand; the devil can show light, but not love, and in going' in the way of love's drawings I generally prosper; but in going contrary thereto, barrenness, distress, burdens, and .unfruitfulness, and sorrow, like going through briars and thorns, and as it is God's will to make us happy, it is our duty to go in the paths of peace, tender conscience, and melting joy, and in so do- ing I don't remember the time I was sorry, though I perceive not the propriety of the thing immediately, yet I do afterwards; there- fore, act as a mortal being who possesses an immortal soul, and ex- pect to give an account at the bar of God, as if my eternal happi- ness depended on the improvement of my time. Improvement en- larges the experience, and experience enlarges the capacity, and, consequently can know more of God; and God made us so that it might be the case with us; and if it were not so, we could neither be rewardable nor punishable, for there would be nothing to reward or punish, for one part of the punishment is bitter reflections, or accusations for misimproved time and talents, the natural conse- quence of which hath brought them there, and this would make distress. As holiness constitutes the felicity of Paradise, what nonsense it is for an unholy being to talk of going there; for it would rather tend to enhance their pain to behold the brightness of that sweet world; therefore I think they had rather be in hell, and the mercy, love, and goodness above, will, in justice, send them liiere, for it is the will and goodness of God to send people or per- sons to the places suited to their nature, disposition and choice. Oh, my God! teach me the things I know not; a forced obedience is no obedience at all; voluntary obedience is the only obedience that can be praise or blame worthy; all good desires come not by 134 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE, nature, but by the influence of God's holy spirit, through the me- diation of Christ, which are given to make us sensible of our weak- ness and wants, that we may seek and have the same supplied; and of course it is our duty to adhere to the sacred influence by solemn considerations, and a resolution to put in practice the same, by breaking off" from what we are convinced is displfeasing and offen- sive in God's sight, and looking to him for the blessings we feel we want, in earnest expectation that he will bestow it through the mer- its of the Son. Crossing Little River in a canoe, I held a meeting at ten o'clock in the morning; and though the notice was short, sixty or seventy came out, and it was a tender time. Sunday, 7th. I arrived in the town of Augusta and my things having arrived, I went through the town, distributing hand bills from house to house; some I gave to black people, and some I flung over into the door yards, and some I put under the doors, or through the windows where the lights were out; and whilst doing this, a negro came after me three times to go to his master's house, saying that Mr. Waddle, a Presbyterian minister, wanted me; I went and obtained a breakfast; he being about to leave the town, and hearing of me before, and being a candid man, was the means of removing prejudice, in some degree, from that society. Then I went to the Methodist meeting house, where the preacher beckoned me to come into the pulpit, which I declined until the third time, and then went. Said he, the elder, Stith Mead, will be in town this morning, and he wants to see you. He had got on my track, and some knowl- edge of my conduct, which had removed prejudice from his mind; at length he came, and after preaching a funeral sermon oflfered me, if I desired it, liberty of the pulpit, and privilege of giving out my appointment for the afternoon, which I accordingly did, and then went off to the Presbyterian meeting, and told them of it as soon as the meeting was dismissed; and the African Baptist likewise, and then to my room, (the people said I was a crazy man.) The bell was rung to give the people notice; this was for the convenience of the Presbyterians. 1 spoke in my feeble way, and appointed meeting for the next evening. The Methodists said, you will have no hearers to-morrow evening, for Mr. Snethen was liked the best of any minister that was ever here, and he could not get but a few OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 135 hearers on a week day night. However the people flocked out more on Monday evening than Sabbath, and I appointed for Tues- day, and told the young people, if they would come out, that I would give them hymn books, which accordingly they did, anfl the congregation was larger still; I proposed a covenant to the people, to meet me at the throne of grace daily in private devotion, which hundreds agreed to, by rising up, for a space of time, which I bound them by their honor to keep. I expected to leave town next morn- ing, but S. Mead prevailed on me to tarry till next Sabbath, con- sidering the prospect of good. Solemn countenances were soon seen in the streets. On Wednesday evening we had meeting in Harrisburg, on Thursday evening, the man who had just finished a job about the meeting house, kept the key, so that it was with much difficulty that we obtained it for meeting in the evening, he assign- ed as the reason, arrearage of pay; we told the people of it; I men- tioned that I esteemed it a privilege to have such a house to hold meeting in, and for my share felt willing to give ten dollars towards the deficiency; and if they would come forward and subscribe lib- erally, perhaps they might not feel the loss of it, for God might bless them accordingly. We got upwards of seventy dollars that night. I told the youth, if they would come to prayer meeting next evening, I Would give them some more books; -about six hun- dred persons came out, to whom I gave seventy hymn books more, an hundred in all. Saturday evening and next morning, I held meet- ing in the vicinity, and the work evidently appeared; four mourners came forward to be prayed for. In the afternoon I gave my last discourse in Augusta, and then I requested those that were deter- mined to set out and seek God, to let me take their names in writing, that I might remember them in my devotions when gone; about seventy, who had been careless, came forward. Last evening we got about thirty dollars more for the meeting house; it was expected that I should have a contribution last meet- ing, for my labors and well wishes to the tqiwn, &c., which I decli- ned, and many thought it strange, yet five dollars I was constrained by my friends to take from a man out of society, lest my refusal should do harm. Next morning, Dr. Prentice, who had treated me as a friend, and was the first man that gave me an invitation to make his house my home in this place, sent his servant and chair •136 HiStOKY OF COSMOPOLITE, with me nine miles; thence I continued my way towards Gharie*" ton. Wednesday, 17th. I set off before sun rise, but was taken unwell, so I'Wa;lked about ten miles, and whilst lying down under a pine, I reflected thus: how do I know but this weakness of body came by the will and wisdom of God, and iti a way to do good, as afflictions happen not by chance nor come from the dust, but are God's mer- cies in disguise. Presently there came along a Methodist backsli- der, who at times strove to reason himself into the belief of Deism and Universalism; but still hs could riot forg&tthe peaceful hours he once enjoyed; yet the word preached would reach his heart, so that he but seldom went to places of meeting. I obtained a promise ffom him, however, that he would try to set out again,* and a^ we parted he was tender. I spoke at night and the next morning to' a few, and some wagons coming along, I got liberty to ride in some of them by turns. My shoes heating my feet, I gave them away for some bread, having a pair of moccasins with me, which pre- seiVed my feet from the sand. Friday, 19th. I called at a number of houses to get entertain- ment, but could not for love nor money, till about the middle of the night, when coming opposite to a house or cottage, an old woman opened her door, and as I saw the light, begged permission to tarry, which I obtained; and she gave me some bread and said, I suppose the other ftimilies did not take you in, but supposed you to be some thief, as j'^ou did not appear to be in the charactor of a gentleman. I paid her for my lodging, but for the bread she did not require it. Next evening I travelled till late, likewise inquired at almost every house for entertainment, but could not obtain it upon any conditions. At length I espied a light, but durst not venture near it for fear of the dogs, but found a convenient tree, where^ I could screen myself from the dogs, a;nd then alarmed the family. After some time I was answered, and pilotted to the house, where I found an old wo- man and her son, and she, to relieve my hunger, gave me such as her cottage afforded, viz: coffee and cake, gratis; however, I paid her, and next morning I Went to Dorchester, and called on a Mr. Carr, to whom I had a letter, and spoke in his house, where good seemed to be done; after that I heard a Mr. Adams, an inde- pendent minister, in their meeting house. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 1*1, Monday, 22d. I came to Charleston, and found the preachers ftiendly, and yet shy, for fear of the censure of the conference; so the preaching house was shut against me. I called on Mr. Mat- thews, then one of Hamet's preachers, for some hand bills which were sent there by Adam C. Cloud, for me, ( here I took the measles ) and distributed about twelve hundred of them through the town, and then obtained the liberty of the poor house, in which I held several meetings. Matthews invited me to supply an appointment for him in the great meeting liouse, which was built for the Methodists, and about which Hamet made crooked work, &e. When M. was gone out of town I advertised the meeting, and about two thousand attended, to whom I speke. It was thought to have been as still a meeting as had been known in that quarter, for such magnitude. A collection was offered to me, which I refused. A gentleman opened a, large room, in which I held several meetings. A collection was offered here, too, which I declined; however, a fevir dollars I re- ceived from some, partly through constraint and the medium of Mr. Monds, who appeared loving and kind. The family here, where Jones the preacher had pilotted me, expected pay for my board. I found a little book here which I wanted, and when paying for it, left money in the man's hands, a sufficiency for my board, and quit the house, and took up my lodging with esquire Terpin, who was inclined towards the Friends or Quaker society, where I held several picked meetings; the Hamet Methodists were low; the Asbury Meth- odists, so called, were shy. At length I took my departure for New York. The measles appeared on my voyage, and the captain and all hands were unkind, and one passenger shot a pistol off near my head, in the small tight steerage, which seemed, to injure me tHuch in my low state. 188 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE, CHAPTER IX. RETURN TO NEW ENGLAND. April 8th. I landed in New York, (though on our way we had crossed the gulf stream) and about two days after my life was despaired of by Dr. Lester, as the inflammatory fever had set in. Whilst I was confined at the house of brother Quackenbush, the Lord was precious to my soul; the sting of death was fled, and sometimes I turned my thoughts on future joys, and realized that some of my spiritual children had gone before and I absent from Jesus. O, how did my soul wish to be in those sweet regions above! But then turning my thoughts on time, I considered the value of souls, and that poor sinners were in the dangerous, blind, dark road — the question arose, which I would choose, to depart to Paradise, or to spend twenty or thirty years more in this vale of tears, in la- boring in the spirit of a missionary for the sake of my fellow mor- tals' salvation; and after a short pause I felt such a travail for souls that if it might be consistent with the; Divine will, I wished to re- cover for their sakes, and still to be absent from my crown of gloryj yet I felt resigned to go or stay as God should see fit. After about twelve days confinement, I put on my clothes with help, though during that time I could not set up but a very few minutes at a time, and that not without assistance, to prevent faint- ing. The day that I got able to stagger abroad, the mistress of the house was taken ill; the Lord was good that we were not both sick together. I went to the south without consent; some of the preachers in the city appeared shy, who were dear to me, which- hurt my feel- ings, not to be visited in my sickness, though one came at times for a morning walk, and at length another; but perhaps there was a cause. May 2d. God opened the way for my getting into the state prison, which I had long before felt a desire to visit, to hold OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 138 religious meetings there. Brother Kerr, whom I had seen in Ire- land, was one of the Iceepers, and obtained a verbal permit for a friend of his to hold meeting with the convicts, though in general, written ones from two inspectors were required from those who are invested with powers to grant them . Two Calvinists preached there generally; but this Sunday one of them was called away to a sa- cramental meeting, and the other readily consented to give up his part of the day without examining who or what I was — these three circumstances of the one inspector and two preachers I perhaps view in a different light than what some do — I thought predestina- tion was poor stuff to feed these prisoners withj considering their conduct and state; so I spoke upon particular election and reproba- tion and a free salvation, not out of controversy, but to inform the mind. I had held but one short meeting since my sickness; and I was still so weak, that I scarcely knew how to stand; yet I soon forgot myself and stood an hour; and in the afternoon about two, while speaking on deism, and the melting power of God seemed to be present, as we formed a covenant to meet each other at the throne of grace, &c. I spoke at night in the poor house. I belive there were between three and four hundred prisoners. Monday 3d. I received a letter from one of the prisoners, who was condemned to imprisonment for life for the crime of forgery; he was a deist when put in; but now he seems desirous for salvation. He, in the name of a number, requested me to visit them. Tuesday, 4th. I visited the cells where some of the most impen- itent were confined, and tears began to flow; through the iron gates, I spoke to others in the different rooms of the mechanics, nailors ex- cepted. I spoke with some and prayed also, and all was still and attention; so my heart seemed to melt towards them in love. Then I visited the bad women, and it was observed that some of the worst of them were brought to bow. I obtained the favor of visiting the prison through and speaking to the prisoners on a week day; this, I was informed, had not been granted to any one before; they were going to petition the governor for a permit for the visit if I had not obtained it without, considering I could not tarry till the following Sabbath. Afterwards I was informed that a number became seri- ous; and one who aided in burning Albany, who was deistical and a bad prisoner, got convinced, and died happy soon after, which was 140 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, a matter of consolation to me; the preachers visited the prison, and hearing of the impressions made on some minds, appeared more soft and friendly^ and had thoughts of offering me the African meet- ing house; but feeling my mind bound for Connecticut, I could not feel free to stay. I got some religious hand bills printed, and pro- cured some books to give away; so I had not money enough left to carry me home; and giving away about seventeen hundred hand bills over the city, I found a vessel bound for Middletown, and went on board just as she was going off, though the captain was a stranger to me; the vessel put into New Haven where I debarked, and the captain gave me my passage gratis, though he knew not but I had plenty of money, which happened very well for me. Iheld a few meetings in New Haven, which seemed not altogedier in vain, though the devil was angry and a few stones flew from some of his children or agents, one of which came through the window in the pulpit and struck just by my side. A young man of no religion left a dollar in my hand, which enabled me to take the stage, for 1 still was feeble in consequence of my late illness, thirteen miles and procure me a breakfast; then walking a few miles to Durham, I called at an inn to rest, and the landlord, who was a Methodist, knew me, and constrained me to tarry all night and hold two meet- ings. I then sent forward appointments into the neighboring towns and parishes, in every direction, though I knew not how I should get on to fulfil them. Thursday, 13th. I arrived at Middletown, expecting the society would treat me cool, but was agreeably disappointed. When in tixe south, I found some minutes of a conference held between the Presbyterian, Baptist, and Methodist preachers; twenty-five ia number, to form regulations, how the different societies might be on more friendly terms together, as the contentions between the dif* ferent sects had been a great injury to the cause of religion in . the tinbelieving world; these met my approbation, so I got hundreds of them reprinted, and sent them to ministers and preachers through the north; and finding the congregation divided about an indepea- d^it meeting house here in Middletown, and being informed that the,parties were to meet, &c., I went in the dead of the night, and had some of my union minutes pasted on three doors of the meet- ing house. The next morning they were read by many. I OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 141 sappose each party, on the first sight, concluded it was a threatening from the other, till they found its contents; when they met I sent in a petition for the liberty of its pulpit, and afterwards the Metho- dists had it more frequently. Oh! the mercy of God! Oh, the rebellion of man! discourage- ments are bef®re me, but my trust is still in God. Saturday, 22d. Having had seventeen meetings the week past, which were as hard as thirty common ones, on account of their length, &c., a friend aided me with a horse, so I came to Eastbury about ten at night, where was a quarterly meeting; the preachers treated me with more friendship seven times than I expected, par- ticularly Broadhead, lh» elder, who had written to me in Europe, a friendly letter, that many preachers and people in my native land would wish to see my face again, though I had never seen him be- fore. I had laid out for the worst, and if I were disappointed it should be on the right side. Sunday, 23d. I was permitted to preach for the first time at a quarterly meeting, and the melting power of God seemed to be present, and a quickening was felt among the people. I sent for- ward about three score appointments, in different parts of the state, from this meeting, though I saw no way how I could get on to fulfil them. However, Providence provided a way. Abner Wood, one of the preachers, having an extra horse, oflfered it to me very reas- onably; so I gave him an order on Mr. Garretson for the eighteen dollars in his haiKls, and let him take my watch, (which a woman had sent me just as I was embarking for America) at what price it should be thought proper. Brother Burrows gave me an old sad- die, and one of the preachers, John Nichols, gave me a whip. Selling the gospel is not in so good a demand now as formerly, and bigotry through America is falling fast, and God is bringing it down, and Christian love prevailing more and more. This visit which I am now upon, was what I felt to be my duty when on my passage home across the Atlantic. When I was on the Orange circuit, I felt something within that needed to be done away. I spoke to one and another coHeerning the pain I felt in my happiest moments, which caused a burden but not guilt; some said one thing and some aaother; but none spoke to my case, but seemed to he like physicians thsit did not understand 142 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, the nature of my disorder; thus the burden continued, and spme- times felt greater than the burden of guilt for justification, until I fell in with T. Dewey, on Cambridge circuit. He told me about Calvin Wooster, in Upper Canada, that he enjoyed the blessing of sanctification, and had a miracle wrought in his body, in some sense; the course of nature turned in consequence, and was much owned and blessed of God in his ministerial labors. I felt a great desire arise in my heart to see the man, if it might be consistent with the Divine will; and not long after I heard he was passing through the circuit and going home to die. I immediately rode five miles to the house; but found he was gone another five miles fur- ther. I went into the room where he was asleep; he appeared to me more like one from the eternal world, than like one of my fellow mortals. I told him, when he awoke, who I was and what I had come for. Said he, God has convicted youforthe blessing of sanc- tification, and that blessing is to be obtained by the single act of faith, the same as the blessing of justification. I persuaded him to tarry in the neighborhood a few days; and a couple of evenings af- ter the above, after I had done speaking one evening, he spoke, or rather whispered out an exhortation, as his voice was so broken, in consequence of praying, in the stir of the Upper Canada, as from twenty to thirty were frequently blessed at a meeting. He told me that if he could get a sinner under conviction, crying for mercy, they would kneel down a dozen of them, and not rise till he found peace; for, said he, we did believe God would bless him, and it was according to our faith. At this time he was in a consumption, and a few weeks after expired; and his last words were, as I am in- formed, "ye must be sanctified or be damned," and casting a look upward, went out like the snuff of a candle, without terror; and while whispering out the above exhortation, the power which at- tended the same, reached the hearts of the people; and some who were standing and sitting, fell like men shot in the field of battle; and I felt it like a tremor to run through my soul and every vein, so that it took away my limb power, so that I fell to the floor, and byfaith, saw a' greater blessing than I had hitherto experienced, or in- other words, felt a divine conviction of the need of a deeper work of grace in my soul; feeling some of the remains of the evil nature, the effect of Adam's fall, still remaining, and it my privilege OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 143 to have it eradicated or done away; my soul was in an agony, I could but groan out my desire to God; He came to me, and said, be- lieve the blessing is now; no sooner had the words dropped from his lips, than I strove to believe the blessing mine now, with all the powers of my soul, then the burden dropped or fell from my breast, and a solid joy, and a gentle running peace filled my soul. From that time to this I have not had the ecstacy of joy or that downcast of spirit as formerly; but more of an inward, simple, sweet running peace from day to day, so that prosperity or adversi- ty doth not produce the ups and downs as formerly; but my soul is more like the ocean, whilst its surface is uneven by reason of the boisterous wind, the bottom is still calm; so that a man may be in the midst of oytward diiBculties, and yet the centre of the soul may be stayed on God; the perfections of angels are such, that they can- not fall away; which some think is attainable by mortals here; but I think we cannot be perfect as God, for absolute perfection belongs to him alone; neither as perfect as angels, nor even as Adam before he fell, because our bodies are now mortal, and tend to clog the mind, and weigh the spirit down; nevertheless, I do believe, that a man may drink in the spirit of God, so far as to live without com- mitting wilful, or known, or malicious sins against God, but to have love the ruling principle within, and what we say or do to flow from that Divine principle of love from a sense of duty, though subject to trials, temptations, and mistakes at the same time. But it* is no sin to be tempted, unless we comply with the temptation, for Christ was tempted in all respects like as we are, and yet with- out sin. James saith, count it all joy when ye fall (not give way) into divers temptations, which worketh patience, experience, &c. Again, it is no sin to mistake in judgment, and even in practice, if it flows from the principle of divine love; for Joshua wholly fol- lowed the Lord, as we read; for one sin must have shut him out of Canaan, as it did Moses; yet we find he mistook in his judgment and practice, in the matter of Eldad and Medad, prophesying in the camp, thinking they did wrong, &c., which was not imputed as sin; and many infirmities we are subject to whilst in this tabernacle of clay, which we shall never get rid of till mortality puts on im- mortality. But nevertheless, as before observed, I think man may have love the ruling principle, which is the perfection in Christ I 144 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, contend far, and why may we not have it? 'God gives us desires for it, commands us to pray for it in die Lord's prayer, and Ihat in faith; and commands us to enjoy it, and love him with all our^eart; and his promises are equal to his comnjandments, which are, that he will circumcise our hearts to love him, and redeem us from all our iniquities; and as death does not change the disposition of the mind, what nonsense it is to expect a death or future purgatory; no, we should expect it now, as now is the time and day of salva- tion, saith the Lord; Enoch walked with God three hundred years; the ancient disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Ghost, and John, and those to whom he wrote, were made perfect in love; Da- vid, when a stripling, was a man after God's own heart, but not when a murderer, for no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him, *aith John, but after his confession God put away his sin; and Paul, in Romans vii, spoke to those who knew the law and re- hearsed the langiiage of one under it, when he said, I am carnal, sold under sin; but in the three first verses of the next chapter, he iiiforms us, that himself was made free from the law of sin and death; if so, he could not be groaning under the bondage of it, un- less you can reconcile liberty and bondage together, which I can- not do, because I cannot think that a man can be carnal, which is enmity against God, and yet be one of the best men at the same time, because it .is a contradiction, and a contradiction cannot be true. A garrison may have inward foes bound, and armies with- out perhaps thriee, and yet have peace among themselves; destroy some of the inward foes, and there are some left; destroy the whole and no more are left within, yet there are some without, viz: the world, the flesh and the devil; and there is need for the garrison or person to keep their watch afterward when the inward foes are de- stroyed, as well as before, or else the outward foes will come in, and then they will have inward foes again; therefore, you see that the blessing of saactification is not only obtained by a single act of ifaith, the same as justification, but kept likewise by a constant exercise of faith in God, as a man going towards heaven is like one rowing up a river, who, when diligent, makes head?«iray, but if he stops the tide will take him back; therefore, as a vessel, whilst a stream runs in it, will be kept full, if it be full; but stop the stream above, audit will grow empty by the outlet, so the Christian, whibt OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 146 ill constant exercise of faith, enjoys constant communion with his God; but if be does but neglect his watch, he will feel an aching void within. O Christian! can you not realize this, or witness it from experience? Tuesday, 26th. I found my friends well in Coventry — held some meetings, and then proceeded to fulfil the errand or work, which I had felt to be my duty when coming home from Ireland, namely to travel the continent at large, to speak on certain points which I conceived to stand, or be in the way, to the no small inju- ry of Christ's kingdom, which I had been persuaded to give over the year before, at the New York Conference, and in consequence thereof, felt my mind distressed, and as if I was delivering my mes- sage to the wrong people, until I arrived in Georgia, for a recovery from my decline, which I believe came in consequence of the dis- tress of my mind, which originated from undertaking to do that which I thought not to be my duty^ when giving up my judgment to the judgment of others, in a matter of magnitude and conscience; though having to trust Providence for my daily bread in future, as when in Georgia and Ireland; yet the peace of mind that I have, and do enjoy, in this critical line of life, more than compensates for all the discouragements as yet; and my trust and hope is still in God, who hath helped and supported me hitherto. Gilead and Hebron were the first of my visiting on this toiir, and the power of God was to be felt. Lord open' my door, and prepare my way through the state. 29th. I went to Lebanon, through the rain, and spoke; and at Windham court house at night; the people, except a few, were solemn and tender; then tarried at a house where I called the first day I set out to face a frowning world, who then were prejudiced against me, but now more frienjlly. Oh, cursed, hard prejudice, what hast thou done to benight the understanding, and prevent it from judging right! it is the devil's telescope, and will magnify and deceive according as you look through it. Sunday, 30th. I spoke twice in Scotland, and twice in Canter- bury. 31st. I rode to Preston, and had one meeting, and three in Sto- nington, and a quickening seemed to run through the people. I feel L 146 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE the want of more faith. Faith, among the preachers and people, causes good meetings from the presence of the Lord. I spoke at the head of Mistick river, and in Groton, and New London to many hundreds of people. My way was singularly opened in Georgia, and so it hath been since my return. Glory be to God! — who would not serve so good a being as this? June 2d. I spoke at Quaker-hill, and in Colchester four times that day; I trust not in vain. The Conference is sitting, and I expect to be as a leper shut out of the camp — yet I have broken no discipline, for I was only a preacher on trial, and never in full connexion, and of course cannot be expelled from the connexion, seeing I was never in. And I nev- er was a member of the Quarterly Conference, and of course am not accountable to any particular Quarterly Conference for my conduct; and the class that I once belonged to is now broken up; and my standing happened to be such that there was none in particular to call me to an account; yet I had plenty to watch over me either for good or evil. If my standing had been any other from what it now is, I must have had my heels tripped up at this critical time. Sunday, 6th. I spoke in the Congregational meeting house, in my native town. Monday, 7th. The dysentery took away my strength considera- bly . Wednesday, I visited one in despair of God's mercy, though a member of the Congregational church; she had been the means of turning her son from pursuing religion, back into sin. Friday 11. I preached in Andover, to about an hundred, gene- rally well behaved; this parish had been (something like Jericho) shut out against the Methodists. Saturday 12. This day or two past, I have been somewhat dis- tressed; I went to Thompson, atid on the way the burden fell, and was encouraged to go forward, as God's spirit seemed to run through the assembly. I spoke at Pomfret, Brooklyn, Canterbury, Frank- lin, Norwich, and at the landing, where the people appeared serious, and many tender. At the latter place one came to me and said, last August I heard you preach, and it was the means of my con- version to God, and one more also. Tuesday, 15th. I spoke in Sterling where the Methodists had OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 147 not spoken before, and in Plainfield; thence to Bozrah, and some adjacent places, and had meeting. About this time I fell in with the bishops on their journey to the east. Mr. Asbury was more friend- ly than I expected — and said, he thought I missed it, that I did not tarry ?.t the New York Conference, adding, if I could have cleared vr, some things (which I suppose was about my deserting the cir- cuit, &c., ) to the satisfaction of the preachers, perhaps I might have been ordained; and added further, that my name was taken off the minutes, as they kept none on but such as travelled regularly. Mr. Whatcoat said, we should join as one man to go forth as an army to hold each other up; but if you attempt to travel at large, you will meet with continual opposition from your brethren, ( though some anwobate yon) and this will have a tendency to discourage you, and weaken your hands, and wean you from your brethren, so pft?r awhile you will fall away. — (0~See Appendix. I visited New Salem, Chatham, Haddam and Guilford, where one got religion — [who since has become a black preacher in the West Indies] — thence to Wallingford, and Cheshire, where bigotry is great in the hearts of the people. Tuesday, 22d. I had four meetings, and having fulfilled the first appointment about sunrise, in Newington, Iwent to the second in Wethersfield, and when I had done, a woman who was a stran- ger, shook hands with me and left a dollar in my hand, wh'ch was the only money I had for some time. On the way to the third meet- ing, my horse flung m:; in the city of Kartford, and ran, and I got him no more till November following; when I was falling, my horse started towards me as I was getting on, pitched me over him to the other side, which some people seeing, screeched out, suppo- sing my brains would be dashed out against the pavement; but so it happened that I did not get entangled in the harness, and received no material injury, except a severe shock. How far an- gelic interposition is present on such occasions, we shall more clear- ly see in a coming world. The beforementioned dollar enabled me to take stage and go on my route to Windsor. At the time I fell, I had about an hundred appointments given out, and about seven hundred miles to travel, all to be performed in five weeks, but how to get on I did not know, as my horse was taken up and ad- yertised, '.nd got away again, and then not heard of for some; 148 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, and the man in whose possession they were, would not deliver up my saddle and outward garment unless I would pay him several dollars, after proving them mine; so I left him to his conscience to settle the matter. However my trust was still in God, who I did think would overrule it for good, which accordingly took place; for there were several neighborhoods which I had previously felt an in- tense desire to visit, but prejudice and bigotry had entirely shut up the way until now, when the above incidents were overruled to the casting of my lot in those vicinities where the door was opened, and I held meetings, the fruits of which I expect to see in the day of eternity. I got assistance to Suffiejd, Westfield, Springfield, Lud- low, Wilbraham, Stafford, Ellington, East Hartford, Wapping, Hartford-five-miles; Mansfield, Eastford, Thompson, Killingly, Abbington, Plainfield, Voluntown, Cranston and Providence — where Providenc-e opened my way, by raising me up friends to assist me to go from place to place, to speak to thousands of peo- ple. A few appointments were not given out according to my ex- pectation, so I disappointed them, as they clashed with my own; but those which were given out according to my direction, I fulfilled all, except one, which I withdrew, so none were disappointed. I visited Lyme, and several neighboring places. About this time, I lost my pocket handkerchief, and borrowing another at tea, forgot to return it as I arose from the table, and immediately went to meet- ing: from this circumstance an idea was conceived that I meant to steal it. Oh, how guarded we should be against the spirit of jeal- ousy! which is as cruel as the grave! However, I sent the woman money, as I had lost her's likewise, while riding. In ten weeks and two days I rode about fifteen hundred miles, and held one hun- dred and eighty four meetings; and feeling my mind drawn out to declare a free salvation, I frequently stood three htiurs, and generally near two. I received two letters from Dr. Johnson, which were a comfort to me. Daniel O'Strahder is appointed presiding elder of Connecticut; he gave me a recommendation for a local deacon's ordination, &c.; but I observed a clause in the discipline that was made whilst I was in Europe, that every local preacher should meet in class, and that if he did not he should forfeit his license, which made me rather suspicious about being ordained, as it would be impracticable to OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 149 meet in a Class, and yet travel as extensively as what I expected, and if I travelled without meeting in a class, I should forfeit my license, or rather credential; and if I proceeded without it, must forfeit my membership and be excluded, &c.; and to be so excluded without breaking discipline, as I had only been on trial and never in full connexion, and had a right of course to desist, as well as they to stop me if they choose, as a trial implies a trial on both sides, nor yet guilty of false doctrine, Contrary to Methodism, or immoral conduct — I was unwilling to put a sword in the hand of another to slay myself — and though I had appointed a day to fall in with the bishop for that purpose, yet could not see my way clear to proceed, and so gav6 up my recommendation, lest it should be said, I converted it to a different use from what it was intended, not but what I was willing to be accountable for my moral conduct, if I could in any way, that I might follow the dictates of my con- science. I was fearful of hurting brother O'Strander's feelings by this refusal. Some said that I construed that part of the discipline wrong; however I explained it as I thought it read, and afterwards asked J. Lee, who observed that he would have made use of that very passage to prevent one of his local preachers from travelling in my way, because a local travelling preacher is a contradiction in terms, and would be a bad precedent. Another time I wanted to cross a ferry and thought, what shall I do for money to get over? I had none and could think of nothing I had with me to pawn, and as I was mounting my horse a h^lf a dollar was put into my hand by two persons, so I was provided for. About this time I wanted a horse shod, and had given the last farthing of my money to have a school house lighted in Glastensbury, and knew not where to look: however a way was provided in a strange congregation, who knew not my necessity. In Milton, Woodbridge, Stratford, Merriden, and several other places I found kind friends to aid me, and some appeared to believe more freely in a free salvation; and good I have reason to believe was done. At length feeling my mind free from Connecticut, I took water passage from Fairfield to New York, and having paid my passage ttnd procured some provisions, I had no money left; and having a tedious passage, the last twenty four hours I had no food to eat; however I arrived in the city, and found some kind friends, 150 HISTOKY OF COSMOPOLITE. who knew not my wants, for previous to my sailing my small clothes I had left to be washed, which were to have been brought to me, but was disappointed of their comiqg, so I had not a necessary change; however God still provided for me. One day, as I was walking one of the streets, Solomon Koundtree, of Georgia, (being here after goods,) saw me and knew me, and called me into the store to know if I wanted or needed any thing. He gave me a pocket handkerchief, a change of linen, kersimere for vest and pan- taloons, and four dollars in money, for which may he be rewarded in a future day. The preaching houses were shut against me. I made application for, and obtained permission to hold meetings in the poor house school room, and then, with much difficulty, obtain- ed liberty of the Universalist's meeting house; they thought the Methodists had something against me of a bad nature, or why would they shut me out and keep me so distant? I spoke in the Universalists's meeting house to a large assembly, and one of their preachers attempted to answer my discourse afterwards, and gave notice of his intention that night. Mr. Sergeant, one of the st&,tioned preachers, who had opposed, now, as he there told me, became friendly, but Mr. Merrell, the superintendent, was still opposed; so I must do as I could if 1 could not do as I would. I perceived by wrong information, he had formed wrong ideas of me, as many others, through the same channel have done; therefore, as they mean well, though they lie under a mistake, it is not worth while for me to give them bitter re- taliations as many do who are opposed by the Methodists, and thus become persecutors. LoUght to do right if other people do wrong, end the best way that ever I found to kill an enemy was to love him to death; where other weapons would fail, this had the desired effect, and I hope with me it ever may. After holding meetings in different private houses, whilst hundreds were listening in the streets, I at length felt my mind free from the city, though during my stay I had walked thirty miles one day into the country, and had meeting at night, and likewise had obtained permission from the Mayor to' hold meeting in the Park, who sent constables there to keep order, and some said the Mayor himself was there in disguise. I visited Turkey, in New Jersey, and Elizabethtown, where the meeting OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 151 house was open to me, and Thomas M 's father, who calls himself a bible man, gave me a dollar. I embarked and sailed for Newburgh, where I felt previously a desire to go. The captain gave me my passage, tho' a Calvinist, and admitted. prayers on the way. I procured, with some difficulty, the liberty of au academy, in which I held two meetings; the peo- ple complained to their minister that I had destroyed their doctrine ( as was said, ) and he must build it up, or they would hear him no more; he replied that it would take him nine Sabbaths to build up what I had pulled down. He spoke two Sundays and made bad worse, then calling in help, they disputed about construing scrip- ture, got quarrelling, and it terminated in a law suit, as one charged the other with heresy, and so was prosecuted for slander, &c. I called on elder Fowler, whom I expected would keep me dis- tant, but was agreeably disappointed, he gave me a horse, for get- ting it shod, to ride several days. So I visited Latten-town, where I was expected the day before; however the disappointment was overruled for good, and being notified, more came out. I visited Plattekill, Pleasant Valley, Shawangunk, and several other places. At the Paltz, I was taken with a violent puking for several hours; but at length I embarked and landed at Loonenburg, and walked to Schohaire, and saw my brother-in-law. Fish, for the last time. 1 visited Halabrook, Schenectady, Clifton Park, Niskeuna, Troy and Half Moon, where I saw my friend R. Searle, [I have not seen him since — he has withdrawn and joined the Church of England,] whom I have not seen for about eight years, except about five min- utes. It seemed natural to see him, and brought past times fresh nto my mind, when he and his sister were in our native land, who were the only young persons I had then to associate with on reli- gious subjects. Our meeting gave me a tender sensation, but it ap- peared that he could not see the propriety of my travelling thus, so I thought it most advisable to retire that day, and went to another place and held meeting. Albany friends met me at a distance, and invited me to town to hold a meeting, which I accepted; but the preacher, Cyrus S., would not consent for me to go into the meeting house, so hundreds were disappointed, as the trustees did not like to hurt his feelings; as he said, if they let me. in he should petition the next Conference not to give them a preacher. The society, in 162 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, general, appeared friendly, and John Taylor opened his house,in which I held meeting; this Cyrus did not like; the Lutherans, it appears, would have lent me a meeting house, but supposed I was wicked, or why should Mr. Stebbens shut me out? So I went to him to get a paper that there was nothing against my moral conduct, which he refused to give, adding, that I trampled on the bishop's power, by travelling so independent, which if he was to do^ he would have been cut off long ago; likewise, that it would be incon- sistent for him to pave the way for me to obtain another meeting house, when he denied me his own, and said that he would rather have given ten dollars, than to have had such an uproar in the socie- ty and city as there was since I came; and ten to the end of that, if I could not have been kept away without — ^just after I began to tra- vel he appeared friendly, and his labors were owned and blessed of God, and then he was a noisy Methodist; but now he has withdrawn and joined the Church of England. In Cobuskill, we had a good time, and at Skenevius Creek, where I saw some who were stirred up to become serious about the time I was in my native lend, likewise an old uncle of mine whom I supposed was dead, I remember once some of his words when I was young, which made great impression on my mind, in one of his visits. September 15. A large meeting being appointed for all denomi- nations in the country to worship God together in the woods, my brother-in-law and sister strove hard to prevail upon me not to go, and at first prevailed; but feeling distressed in my mind, I went; an awful hail storm happened on the way. Hundreds collected to whom I .spoke; when others were coming on the ground; orders were given for all the official characters of the different religious orders to retire to a council room, to consult how to carry on the meeting; they went, but I did not feel free to go till their meeting was nearly over. They agreed not to meddle with their peculiar- ities, but to be as near alike as they possibly could; but I was not there when they took the vote, so my hands were not tied. There were about two thousand people, and upwards of thirty ministers or preachers of the Presbyterian, Baptist and Methodist orders, and took turns' in speaking, and I spoke in the riight; next day I had thoughts of leaving the ground, but got detained, and Calvinism OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 153 come upon the stagej but the preacher's hands were tied so that theyj could not correct it; but I felt in my heart to speak on certain points, which liberty I lobtained, and began meeting without sing- ing or prayer, and my text I did not tell until towards the close of the meeting — I stood near three hours, and after we were joining in prayer and rising up, when no one in particular was speaking, seve- ral persons observed that they saw something fall from the sky like a ball of fire, about the bigness of a man's hat crown; ( I did not, see it;) however just at that moment, a number fell like men shot in the field of action, and cried for mercy. The meeting continu- ed nearly all night, andmany foundpeace. The next day, as I was going oflf, the people were so kind as to give me a horse, saddle and bridle; so after visiting a number of places, and attending a quarterly meeting at Paris, went to Western with brother Miller, who had no children, except an adopted daughter, Peggy *****, who since has become my companion in life. I visited several neighboring places, and spent a week not in vain. I had an oil- cloth coat given to me, and then took my departure for Upper Can- ada. I swam my horse across Black river, and arrived at Kingston, through a black deep soiled flat country, and so muddy that my horse could but jnst walk, and for miles together seeing nothing but the wild beasts of the desert. I visited several neighborhoods, within forty miles of Kingston, westward. I had several dollars offered me, which I refused, lest the circuit preacher [who was supposed to be sick, as he had disappointed a number of congre? gations] should think I hurt his salary, and this be brought against me at a future day. I went down about a hundred and twenty miles, holding meetings as I went, and frequently only on mention- ing 'Calvin Wooster's name, and the blessing he was to me, people who had here felt the shock of his labors were stirred up afresh, and some would even cry out, &c. I saw the grave of a distant relation of mine who had been a great traveller, but ended his life on an island at the north of Lake Ontario; thus I see we must all die — oh! the solemn thought — but when I cast a lopk beyond the bounds of time and space, I see, methinks, a beautiful place where saints immortal dwell, and where I hope by God's grace, one day safely to arrive. I re-crossed St. Lawrence River, from Cornwall to St. Ridges 164 HISTOEY OF COSMOPOLITE. and passing through an Indian settlement, who live in the English fashion in some degree, I came into Shadigee woods, so through to Plattsburg, missing the road by the way; however; I w^s not hurt by the wild beasts, and found good places to cross the rivers, and my road brought me nigher than the usual road. I called at a house where two of my spiritual children lived, who were awakened on Cambridge circuit, but could rally nobody, so I turned my horse in a pasture, and took up my lodging under a hay stack for the night; but towards day I heard a child cry, so I gave another alarm, and was cordially received in — I held meetings about h^re, and saw my friend J. Mitchell — I went to the Grand Isle, and had two meetings, then riding three-quarters of a mile through the water on a sand bar, I came to Milton — thence to Fletcher, and saw the man that took my horse when I was going to Europe; thence to Hardwick (being now in Vermont) where my brother Bridgman and two sis- ters lived — my youngest sister seemed to have lost her desires in a great measure, and I could not prevail on her to set out again; this grieved my heart; I told them I could not bid them farewell, unless they would endeavor to set out and seek God afresh, though I wished them well. I visited several neighboring places, and souls were blessed by God. Thence leaving Vermont, I rode over Connecticut river, into New Hampshire, where I met Martin Rutter, going to form a cir- cuit; I had felt a desire he should go into that part where he had sot out to go; I gave him the names of some families where to call. I saw Elijah R. Sabin, who had been a zealous and useful preach- er, but was now broke down and married, and about to locate. I had meetings in Haverhill, then rode to Plymouth, and Holdness, and Meridith, and Gilmington, and the melting power of God seem- ed to be present in many places. OB, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 165 CHAPTER X. RETURN TO GEORGIA. I MET one who wanted my horse, by the name of Sealy: I told him he might take him; if two impartial men would appraise him, &c. The two men could not agree, so they called a third, who judged in such a manner that this bargain, which was in connexion with two others, was about two hundred dollars damage to me. It was my intention to have sailed for the south, which was the cause of my putting myself in the way whereby I was cheated as above. ( I believe God suffered these trials to befall me, for not being more submissive to go to the south by land, &c. ) However, I proceeded on foot, being a stranger in this part, until I came to old Almbo- rough in Massachusetts, where I saw Stephen Hull, with whom I once was acquainted. He went out from near my native place to trwelling, but at length quit the connexion, assigning as a reason, his family, &c., and that he could not get a support among the Methodists. I observed his wife was a pious young woman, when with her father, Col. Lippet, in Cranston, but now appears to be in a cold, uncomfortable state. Here I observed Mr. Wilson, of Providence, and John Hill, who now are Congregational ministers, though once Methodists, and once could kneel at prayer, but now I observed they stood; they compared themselves to "fixed stars," and me to a comet; which is supposed to connect systems; I neither felt freedom to eat or stay long, having arrived there at night, and went off in the morning before they were up; though I expected to have had the privilege of a meeting house, if I had tarried. I tliought of the words of Judas, "What will ye give me and I will deliver him to you," &c. I took the stage to Haverhill, and came to Boston; and Thomas Lyell, [he hath withdrawn and joined the Church of England!] who had been chaplain to Congress, and was the stationed preach- 156 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, er, would not suffer me to hold meeting in the meetinghouse, or any where else; but said if I did, he should publish me accordingly; saying, I was not a travelling preacher, nor a local one, and of course he could not suffer meeting consistently, and if I would leave the town in peace without meetings, he would let me depart in peace; he asked me if I was needy, and provided me with a break- fast, and offered me an old coat, &c. I hired my board and lodg- ing, and no vessel going out. soon, my money failed me, so I was obliged to leave town on foot, and then took stage and came to Worcester that night, then walked eighteen miles by moonlight to Charlton. November 7th. I had a meeting at Dudley; 8th, at Sturbridge, Woodstock, and Ashford; 9th, I saw my parents, and my mother for the last time; 10th, I left my parents, and walked about twen- ty miles, and rode in a wagon eighteen more; and as we were cros- sing a toll-bride, one began to run the rig upon me, asking me how much money I had got, and wanted to swap purses with me, and he considering himself a gentleman, I reached him mine with a few shillings in it, though I had but six cents left; he gave me his purse, but was sure to take out the contents in season. I thonght he felt some conviction; he offered to swap back, but I said a bargain is a bargain. Then a friend went a distance to where I had about twen- eight dollars due, so I took an old mare, and my bridle, and an old saddle being given to me, and set off for Georgia, having one quar- ter of a dollar in my pocket. About this time I heard that the horse which had flung ,me in the summer was found, and that the man of whom I had him had got him again; so went and got the same mare which I had let him have for it, and then sold her for a watch and spending mopey; and col- lecting about five dollars, in the name of the Lord I set forth, not knowing what was before me. I had an appointment to preach, and making a mistake in the meeting house, I went up into the pulpit, hut loas soon driven out by the sexton, it being another man's meeting; however, when he had done I got a peaceable hearing in another place. In Eeading, the Lord blessed the people, and at North Castle, White Plains, New Rochelle,Tuckey Hoe, Tarry town, Siiigsing, and several other places* Then crossing the North river, I preached , OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 1S7 at brother Smede's, in Harverstraw, where some dated their awa- keiiing and conversion. Thence to Pequest and Asbury, and then to Philadelphia, where Mr. Cooper and Elder Ware hatcheled me in such a manner as I never was before, without bitterness. They reasoned and criti- cised me as if they were determined to search me out from cen- tre to circumference. I did not think proper to answer all their questions, neither to assign all the reasons I had for my conduct. — Mr. Cooper said, your European brethren oppose you, and your American brethren oppose you; and you say our rules are good, and yet you go contrary to them, and two opposites cannot be right, and consequently one must be wrong. Do you think that you are wiser than all the rest of the world? Lorenzo Dow has set up his will in opposition to his brethren, and is wiser than they all. He then said, that woe is to him by whom offences come, and that I offended my brethren. He then gave me a pair of scales to weigh in, and put my arguments on one side, calling them a feather, and his arguments in the opposite side, calling them ten thousand pounds. I told him that in matters of opinion barely, we should give up our judgment to the majority; but in matters of tender conscience be- fore God, we must be our own judges; for, if by hearkening to the other in giving up my conscience, I am brought into trouble, how can I expect to be acquitted at the bar of God? He asked me, if I did not think the preachers were as conscientious as myself? I re- plied that I did not like to answer that question, but thought some went more by reason, and that was better known, to themselves than me. I must answer for one, and of course act for myself. So went on my way to Wilmington, and called on a preacher, who treated me coolly, so I put up at an inn. However, what Ware and Cooper said discouraged me much: but the Lord, after I had submitted the matter to him, comforted my soul; for he had previously warned me in a dream of the night, that trials awaited me in Philadelphia, which I had told to brother E. Wolsey. I went on into Delawarej and came to a village which appeared fa- miliar as though I had seen it before. A collection was offered me which I refused, and went to Cokesbury; saw a preacher, and then went to Baltimore; after I held a meeting, and saw brother S. Coate, 158 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, who was friendly, and suffered me to improve in a prayer meeting, an old man gave me two dollars, which I needed, as I had' but 'one dollar and a half left me. Wells, the assistant, was out of town that time. H y, a preacher, refused to tell me where the Methodists lived that way to the southward, yet I set off, and rode about thirty miles to a place where I found a family said to be Methodists, and held meeting — and likewise in the neighborhood ( being detained by a snow storm) several others. Thence I proceeded on my way, and met bishop Whatcoat just as I had crossed Georgetown ferry. He treated me with love and tenderness, and after he had inquired my journey, I enquired his welfare, and he told me where to call and put up in Alexandria and Dumfries, so I found brother Brien and the assis- tant preacher, brother Roen, to treat me kind'. Thence on to Cul- pepper, where I spent Christmas, and received a dollar and a half, which with two dollars I received at Alexandria, were of great ser- vice to me; though they knew not my wants. Thence to Louisa county, where my mare was taken sick,*so I left her and went on to Cumberland county on foot, and while at breakfast I turned in my mind, what an apparent enthusiast I am! Yet I felt peace, and said in my mind, that my late misfortune should turn to the glory of God, and I felt within myself, that I should yet see good days in this weary land, where I am now a stranger. Thence to Prince Edward county. On the way I called to dine, and paid the man beforehand, but the family were so dilatory, that I went off without waiting for it to be got ready; so crossing Coal's ferry, I , came *,o Danville, ( I spoke in Halifax by the way, where I was thought to be an impostor. ) Here a man overtook me with a horse which he led, lame and bareback; he suffered me to ride about sixty miles; so I came to Stetsville, Iredell county, in North Carolir.a. My money being nearly all gone, I wanted to sell my watch for spend- ing money. I got the watch low, at eighteen dollars, and offered it for nine, if I could have supper, lodging and breakfast with it. A watch maker came in and said it was a good one, so the inkeeper offered me nine dollars, or eight and a half with supper, &c. I took the latter, and while I was asleep, the mistress of the house was so good or bad as to send all around the neighborhcfod, as I was informed, to notify the people that a horse-thief was at her house. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 159 and if they did not lock up their horses, they must expect one to he gone before morning. Next day, I had my feeling in this strange land, and retired in private, and renewed my covenant vrith God, that if he would suf- fer the providences to open before me as in time past, I would give up to suffer his will; for I felt as if I was not quite so resigned to travel, and pass through trials as in times past. My soul was re- freshed to put my hope in God, and look forward. I got a few to- gether, and spoke in the court house — likewise at a Methodist house, where I was thought an impostor. Having a letter, I went to where it wis directed, and the man of the house happened not to be at home, which wag» well for me; so I got a meeting, and the people were so well satisfied that I got liberty and an invitation to speak again. About the same time Philip Bruce, an old preacher, and presiding elder, came home from Virginia, and arrived at his father's about six hours before his father died, he felt hurried in his mind to hasten on the roa,d — it appears that his father expected to see his son Philip, by a conviction in his mind. Philip Bruce heard of me, and charged his friends to be aware of me; but on hearing of my having related som% of my past experi- ence, recollected of having heard of me before, and retracted his first charge, and wished them to receive me if I came to their house, which was a means of opening my way. A day or two after I fell in with him, he treated me as I wished to be received by the influ- ential, considerate servant of God, while my conduct is as becomes the gospel of Christ. Here lived some who were called Presbyte- rians, which I called Presbyterian- Methodists, or Methodist-Pres- byterians. They had the life and power of religion. They gave thirty-three dollars of their own accord, and eleven more were sub- scribed. James Sharp took the money and let me have a horse, and trusted me for the remainder, though he had no written obliga- tion, and some said he would lose it. An opportunity presenting by a traveller, I sent on a chain of ap- pointments towards Georgia. After holding several other meetings in Iredell, I set off, and had meeting at Major M'Clary's, Spartin- burgh, Enore, Abbeville court house, so to Petersburgh in Georgia, where I arrived on the 2d of February, 1803, having had some tri- als, and experienced some providences by the way. I felt the want 160 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, of credentials, as the Methodists. for hundreds of miles had treated me cool. However, as soon as I entered Petersburgh, a lad knew me, and word soon flew over the town that thei walking preacher had got back, and Ispoke to an assembly of magnitude that night. A society of Methodists was raised here when I was walking this country last year, though religion was cold. Now it seiemed to flourish; my way was openf^d, and I sent appointments, and visited the country extensively as Providence enabled me to succeed. At Rolem's meeting house, and at Thompson's, Cunningham's Powelton, Sparty, Rehobeth, Washington, Sardis, Indian Creek, Gen. Stewart's, Burk's, Gen. Dickson's, Baker's, Carrell, Red- wine's, Paine's, M' Daniel's, Coldwater, Stenchcomb's and Sest's neighborhoods, &c., I held meetings. A camp meeting, the first I ever attended, was held on Shoulder- bone-creek, where I arrived on the third day of its sitting, about the dawn of it. I spoke several times, and the Lord was with us; ten came forward and testified that they found the pardoning love of God, among whom was Judge Stith, who had been a noted deist. — In this quarter God gave me favor in the sight of the people, and some were raised up to supply my wants, among whom was doctor B. and S. Roundtree, doctor Lee, &c., and another gentleman, who gave me a cloak; for these favors, may God remember those who administer to my necessities. I visited Handcock, Clark, Jackson, Ogletharp, Franklin and El- bert counties, quite extensively; the congregations were exceeding- ly large, so that I mostly spoke under the tree, and the Lord over- shadowed us with his divine presence; the fruit of this visit I expect to see in a future world. Though it was by a very sweet drawing that I undertook to wander here by land, yet it was trying to my flesh and blood, to leave my friends and acquaintance in the north, and wander so many hundred miles amongst strangers; yet something within would say, go and you shall see peace, and I went and, saw it, so I did not grudge all my toil. However, I was not without my trials, here, considering the cause of God; for many of the Baptists supposed me to be a Baptist preacher, when I was on foot through this quarter at first, and now flocked out by crowds to hear me, as I had said but little about names or parties when here OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. i61 before, and was coolly received by those whpse friendship I wished to retain. The Baptists, ( of whom many are pious, ) were sorely disappointed in me now, when they heard my doctrine, or ideas on election and reprobation; and instead of owning me now for a Bap- tist, reprobated me to the highest pitch, and several church meetings were held on the subject, the result of which was, that they should hear me no more. Some of their preachers spoke hard against me in public and in private, behind my back; and some things I was informed they said which they could not prove; and all this because I endeavored to show the evil of that doctrine which had been such a curse to me, and for preaching up a free salvation; which caused brother Mead to say,_(as they now preached up eternal doctrines more than usual ) it will be the means of drawing out the cloven foot to cut it off — meaning it would cause the people to know their sentiments more fully, which they frequently kept hid, and so de- ceived the people, by preaching an offer of mercy, when only a few, the elect, could possibly have it. And as some of them said that I preached or held to things that were false, brother Mead, and a num- ber of others advised me to prepare for publication my Thoughts, or Chain, on different religious subjects. I visited Augusta, and found a good society formed there; also Wanesborough, Sandersville, and many other adjacent places, to- gether with Louisville the capitol, where the governor offered me money, which I did not feel free to accept; but was thankful for his good wishes. March 25th, 1803. Camp meeting came on at Jones' meeting- house, and lasted till the 29th. Some were convinced of error of sentiment, and some of sin, and a goodly number found peace in the blood of the Lamb, and the world's people were brought to ac- knowledge that something out of the common course of nature must have produced the effect in two instances. I found the people here kind, for as Hope Hull mentioned to them, that I was about to go to the western country, and perhaps I might want some spending money, &c., upwards of an hundred dollars were given me; so I found the Lord to provide, who put it into the heart of Gen. John Steward to get me a pass on parchment from the governor, under the ■eal of the State, to pass through the Indian country. My horse not being good for travelling, I sold him on credit, atui M 162 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, a Methodist, so called, had one for sale, and offered him to me for an himdred and fifty dollars; and this man who was a methodisti did not show me the kindness to wait, as another man of no society and of no religion did; for the latter was bound for me, though he had not seen me before — and he also carried the money a distance for nothing; so I see that the hearts of all men are in the hand of God, and he can and doth work by whom he pleaseth. Feeling my soul refreshed by my visit, and my work done here for the present, and my horse paid for, and I well equipped for travelling, and my heart drawn to the west, and a number of letters being given me to give the people, I was resolved to go to the west- ward. I therefore told brother Mead, who was going to Virginia, that if he was minded he might give out a chain of appoint- ments for me through that country, to which he agreed. (During this visit I had a narrow escape from a raving heifer.) I felt a de- sire to hold meeting in a certain house of quality people; but knew not how to accomplish it. But a thought struck my mind; so I got one to go arid deliver an errand in such a way as to provoke the man to say, I'm willing if my wife is, and the woman to say, I'm will- ing if my husband is; which was effected by the errand being deliv- ered to them separately. I then published the appointment, but it so happened that the family were all from home except the blacks at the time of meeting; so I spolie before the gate in the road, and had a good time: but I received a few lines from one of the absen- tees, expressing grief on their side at the circumstance. April 19th. Being provided with necessaries, I crossed the Oconee river, and there meeting some persons, set off for Tombig- bee; but I had not proceeded an hundred yards before I found that one on whom we depended as a guide, knew nothing about the road; of course, must depend on my own judgment. I had procured a map of the road, an hundred and thirty miles to the Chatahooche river, and a pocket compass, &c. A young man from Connecticut, who was acquainted with some of my relations, was feeding mules in the woods, so we followed him a few miles, and then encamped in the woods for the night. Next day a woman and a child got flung from a horse, and thereby were ducked in the Okamulge river. So we proceeded on, frequently seeing Indians, of whom a black woman of the company was very much afraid, till we came to Flint OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 183 rivier, when we hired an Indian to lead a horse through, and hiniself w^ile before it. Some of the land over which we passed was mis- erable, and some was preferable to any I Ijad ever seen in the south. We frequently saw wild game, among which were deer and turkeys. The Indians frequently came to our camp, and while we had our evejiing devotion, they would be solemn and mute; we could talk together by signs otily, and I desired to know if they , knew what we were about; they replied that we were paying our addresses to the Great Man above,' who is the author of breath, &c. Thus all intelligences have some idea of divinity, futurity, and rewards and punishments. And what causes such universal acknowledgement, but an universal teach*? which must be God! I broke my um- brella, and likewise lost my whip, the latter while buying corn and hiring a pilot. One day a couple of us thought to get to the agent's house before the company, to get provision, but had not gone far before an Indian alarmed us much, shooting a deer through, and the ball struck near us, which made us suppose some hostile intention was against us, until we saw the mistake. We left a man and woman in the woods, who were going to trade with the Indians, as they travelled slow. , Hawkins, the agent, treated us cool, so we quit him and went on. Next day we missed our road, or rather an Indian path, which we were convinced of by some swamps and water courses, and turning a little back, one of the company being a good woodsman, took the lead, and striking across, we came to the path, which divided the minds of the company at first, but at length we agreed to strike across it further through the woods, and that aflernoon found a path which proved to be the right one. We at length found a man hunt- ing horses, who pilotted us to the first house in the settlement, which we made in thirteen days and a half from the time we set out, hav- ing travelled about four hundred miles. The company supposed that they could save thirty or forty miles' travel by swimming across the Alabama river, and fording a swamp, which they attempted to do, and got detained by rain two days; but I left them, and went down the river ten miles, and stayed with a half bred Indian, who charged me a dollar and a half for the night. I then left an appointment for Sunday, in jjhe Tensaw settlement, 164 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, and went over the Alabama by the Cut-off, to the west side of Tombigbee, through a cane brake or swamp, seven miles, and found a thick settlement, and |hen a scattered one seventy miles long, through which I sent a string of appointments, and afterwards ful- filled them, and the fruit I expect to see at a future day. The river Tombigbee, like the Nile, overflows once a year, is also a flood tide river only once in twenty-four hours; it is naviga- ble for vessels, and will one day become the glory of the southern part of the United States, as the trade of Tennessee, &c., will pass through it. The inhabitants are mostly English, but are like sheep without a shepherd. Whilst under the Spanish government, it was a place of refuge for bad men; but of late, since it fell to us, seems to be in a hopeful way, and there is still room for great amendment. A collection was offered to me, but I did not feel free to accept it; and I left the settlement, procured some corn, and had not a cent left. Three of 'my travelling companions fell in with me again, and ac- companied me through the Choctaw nation, to the Natchez settle- ment, which we reached in six days and a half, being about eight hundred miles from Georgia. On the way, we met with a man go- ing alone to Georgia, and in the sixth town, I gave my saddle-cloth to the Indians for corn to feed my horse with. Here I was called to another exercise of my faith, having no mo- ney, and a stranger in a strange land, but my hope was still in God who hath helped me hitherto. The master of the house to which I first came, was once a Methodist; he happened to hear of my coming the week preceeding, by some travellers, and received me and them kindly, and the next day got me a meeting, and good I trust was done. The night after, I held meeting at the house of a Bap- tist, then rode on towards the town of Natchez, and parted with my three companions by the way, who were going to West Florida to see their father. I called on a man who was said to be a Methodist, but found he was not; so I went to another house where they were called Meth- odist?, but met with a cool reception at the first, until I showed them the governor's passport, and likewise two papers, one from brother Mead and one from Hull, that I was an acceptable preacher, of moral conduct, and &c., then they were more kind, and kept my hors« about two weeks. Brother Moses Floyd met me the same OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 165 night, and having received letters by me from Georgia, was friendly; then the above family became more so; the governor to whom I had an introductory letter, was also friendly. I held two or three meetings in the assembly-room, with the per- mission of the mayor, though with difBculty obtained. The man on whom I called, and found he was not a Methodist, reflected how far I had come to see them through the woods, and felt his heart inclined to lend me a horse to ride more than a hundred miles, so I went to Kingston, and procured a spot of ground, by selling my watch, for a meeting house; and then to the Heights and Pinkney- ville, and held meetings. I stopped at a house, in the edge of West Florida, and soid my cloak. Thence I returned and visited several neighborhoods, and God's power was to be felt in some of them. My horse was now taken lame, so that he was not fit to ride to Tennessee. I spoke at the Pine Ridge meeting house; and at Wash- ington, Sulsertown, and at Calender's meeting house, where some were offended. Here quarterly meeting was held. Thence I went to Wormsville, Biorpeer, and Big Black, and preached the funeral sermon of a niece of the Rev. Tobias Gibson, and the Lord was with us. I left my horse with brother Gibson, and took a Spanish race horse, which he was to be resposible for, and I was to remit him the money by post, when it should be due, on my arrival in Georgia, in November. June 20. Having got equipped for my journey through the woods of Cumberland, which was several hundred miles, and having been informed that a party of men was that morning to start into the wilderness, I intended to go with them., but on my arrival found they had started the day before; so I must either wait for more, or go and overtake them. To wait I durst not, as my appointments had gone to Virginia. A Kentuckian had some time before, as I was informed, struck an Indian who shortly after died; and the other Indians supposed that his death was in consequence of the blow; and they complained to the governor, and the Kentuckian was tried and acquitted; wherefore the Indians, according ito their custom, were determined to kill somebody, as they must have life for life; and they had now become saucy, and had shot at and wounded sev- eral on that road, but had not killed any one yet, and it was supposed 166 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. that some one must shortly fall a victim. However I set off alone, and rode the best part of twenty milesj and when I saw a party of Indians within about a hundred feet of me, I was in hopes they would pass me, but in vain, for the first Indian seized ray horse by the bridle, and the others surrounded me. At first, I thought it was a gone case with me, then I concluded to get off my horse and give them up all, in order to save my life; but it turned in my mind, that if I do, I must return to the settlements, in order to get equipped for another start, and then it will be too late for my appointments; — Again it turned in my mind, how, when I was in Ireland, somebody would frequently be robbed or murdered one day, and I would travel the same way the day before or the day after, and yet was preserved and brought back in peace; and the same God is able to preserve me here and deliver me now as then — immediately I felt the power of faith to put my confidence in God; at the same time I observed the Indians had ramrods in the muzzles of their guns as well as in their stocks, so it would take some time to pull out the ramrods, and get the gun cocked and prepared up to their faces, ready to shoot; at this moment my horse started and jumped sideways, which would have laid the Indian to the ground, who held the bridle, had it not slipped out of his hands; at the same time the Indian on the other side, jumped seemingly like a streak to keep from under the horse's feet, so that there was a vacancy in the circle; at the same time, I gave my horse the switch, and leaned down on the saddle, so that if they shot I would give them as narrow a chance as I could to hit me, as I supposed they would like to spare and get my horse. I. did not look behind me until I had got out of sight and hearing of the Indians. I was not long in going a dozen or fifteen miles; so I overtook the company that day, and told them what I had passed through; they said, that they had met the same Indians, and a Chickasaw trader who was with them, told them that two Chickasaw Indians with him said, that the Choctaws which I met informed them, that if the Chickasaw trader was not with these Kentuckians, they should have taken their provisions from them. When I heard' this, I thought, if such a small preventive was the only means of saving a patty from being plundered, whatdangerwas I exposed to! And I felt more solemn afterwards, than when in the midst of danger About forty-eight hours after, a party of twenty-five men w^er* OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 167 attacked by some ruffians, driven from their camp, and plundered of some thousands of dollars, and some of them came near starving be- fore they got in. I travelled on several days with the company, but they proceeded so slow that I resolved to quit them; and thinking I was v^ithin about forty miles of the Chickasaw nation, set off alone one morning in hopes of getting in the same night, so I travelled on all day as fast as I could conveniently, stopping only once to bait, until I came within about twenty miles of the settlements, and about ten at night came to a great swamp, where I missed the trail, and was necessita- ted to camp out without any company, (except my horse) fire, or weapons of defence; and as I dismounted to fix my bridle and chain together, for my horse to graze while fastened to a tree, I heard a noise like the shrieks of women, and listened to know what it might be; and it occurred to my mind, that I had heard hunters say, that the catamount or panther would imitate the cries of women; at first, I felt some queries or fears in my mind, but I soon said, God can command the wild beasts of the forest, as well as he can command the Indians; and I kneeled down and committed myself to the protec- tion of kind Providence, and then lay down and had a comfortable night's rest. The next morning I went on, and joined the settle- ment about ten o'clock, and got some milk and coarse Indian bread for myself, and corn for my horse; then went on about twenty miles further, and through the good Providence of God, I did not miss my road, though there were twenty that went in different courses. At length I saw a man dressed like a gentleman; he came up and shook hands with me, and after some conversation, invited me to his house, about a mile and a half off: I tarried with him a few days, and had two meetings, with some reds, blacks, whites and half-breedsj~ and good I think was done in the name of the Lord. The post came along, and I left Mr. BuUen, the missionary, whom I spent my time with, and set off with him; and in three days and a half we travelled upwards of two hundred miles, and came to the settlements of Cumberland; and having a letter, I called on Major Murray, who treated me kindly. I gave away the last of my mo ■ey and my pen-knife, to get across an Indian ferry, I sold my chain haltesr for two dollars, and brother Murray lent me a horse to ride to Nashville, where I got two or three letters, which I consider a? 168 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. the hand of Providence, as it was the only means of opening my door. I inquired for Methodists, hut found none — I strove to get a place for meeting that night, hut all in vain; so I went ahout six miles and called upon a local preaehdr, who treated me with friend- ship; so I tarried all night. Next day early, I returned to Nashville, and tried to get the court house, and several private houses, but all in vain. Then I went to a grog house and began to talk ironical; as if I was one of their company, and soon the man offered me liber- ty of his house for what I would choose to give him, he supposing that I was not in earnest; but I let him know that I was, by giving him a dollar, and told him as a man of honor, I should expect the room of him. I then went out and told the post master, who adver- tised it for me, as he knew by the superscription of my letters that I was no impostor. I returned to Major Murray's, and delivered my horse, where was a class-meeting; the circuit preacher was cool, hut Mr. Cannon, a local preacher, being a man of consideration, prevailed, and I met the class, and the Lord being with us, we had a good time; so my way was opened through the country. The grog house in Nashville would not contain the people, and some body prepared the market house for me, and I spoke and described the character of Christians, a gentleman, and the filth of the earth, which were the subjects of my discourse, and some fearing of coming under the class of filth, behaved well. I appointed meeting again, and in the court house, if it should be opened, if not, on the public square, or in an adjacent grove, as might best serve. The court sat in the mean time, and they ordered the court house to be opened, and I spoke to hundreds. Contributions were oflfered me, which I refused; however, several dollars were forced on me by some gentlemen. The cause of my refusing the above was this, I did not wish to put myself in the power of another, nor to give Satan a Sword to slay me, or power to hedge up my way, as the eyes of hundred were upon me. A camp meeting was held, but I believe that good was prevented by their not following the openings of Providence. I visited several other places, and then went to Kentucky, and visited Beardstown, Frankfort, and Lexington; some Methodist local preachers treated me cool, and strove to shut up my way; hut God opened my way by means of a Baptist at Beardstown; and OR. LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 1«9 at Frankfort I got to the state liouse; and at Lexington I got first the court house, then a play house, and afterwards, the Methodists opened to me their meeting house; in several meetings, God was with us. Thence I steered to Virginia; on the way, I was inform- ed of an old salt well being found and a large bed of ashes by it, and pieces of earthen kettles, denoting their size to be larger than pot-ash kettles, and also a vessel of stone like a salt cellar, which must have belonged to the ancients. At an inn, I offered the man pay over night, but he refused, say- ing, he would be up in season in the morning; however, he was not, so I left what I supposed would be his demjtnd, on the table, and went on; he afterwards reported that I had cheated him. At an- other place, all my money was gone to one dollar, and the landlord attempting to accuse me of passing counterfeit money, would not exchange my dollar for my fare, but thought to injure me, until an- other man changed it for me. At length, I met two men, who told me that my appointments were made in Virginia, at Abington, where I arrived August 21, about three hours before the meeting time. I was now dirty and ragged, as my pantaloons were worn out, my coat and jacket worn through, as also my moccasons. I had only the smallest part of a dollar left. However, some gentlemen gave me Seven dollars^ and then a collection was made, which I refused, until they hurt my feelings and forced it upon me; some others held back their liberality, I had a convenient stage erected, and we had a solemn time. I left an appointment when I would be there again, and in the neighboring counties, and went on to Fincastle, then to Bedford county, where I spoke in the town of Liberty; from the Age of Reason I took my text, and some went off before I had cleared up the point; they supposed me to be a deist, but afterwards were sorry. I spoke in Lynchburgh, New London, and at Carmel court house, and a number of adjajcent places, and left hundreds of appointments for the spring. I saw Dr. S. K. Jennings', and found him to be a man of strong powers of mind, and great acquired information, and very pious. Oh, may he fill up that sphere of life for which he is qualified. In Cumberland county John Hobson, Jr., got awakened, and found peace, as he fell down while I was speaking; his dear com panion was laboring under great trials of mind, for the loss of al 170 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, her offspring, till God cast my lot in that quarter, when she got reo onciled to the same, by the sanctifying influence of God's Holy Spirit. His mother, who was upwards of eighty years old, also found peace. I visited several other places, and the Lord was with us. Then I went to Richmond, and by the governor's consent, spoke in the capitol, which some body had advertised in the Argus, and afterwards in the Methodist meeting house several times; also at Manchester, and at New Kent Quarterly meeting. I rode twenty miles to Petersburgh, in the rain, and seeing a man, inquired of him if he knew Jesse Lee. He replied, he is my broth- er, and took me to his house; and as soon as I passed the gate I saw Jesse standing in the door, and I sat still on my 'horse, though I was wet through, (with a bundle of books under my arm;) I had no outer garment on; and there was not a word spoke for some time between us. At length said he, come in. I desired to know wheth- er it was war or peace: said he, come in; said I, is it war or peace? Said he, come in; I made the same reply: said he, it is peace. So I dismounted and went in, and he, after some conversation, went and procured me a large meeting that night, in the Methodist meet- ing house. I spoke three several times, and God was with us. Oh how different was I now received, from what I was formerly! — Surely I was agreeably disappointed in my reception; and there must have been the hand of God in this. I visited several neigh- boring places, not in vain. I got five hundred pamphlets printed, and as I was going to the office for them, a stranger called me out to one side and put ten dollars into my hand, though he knew not my necessity, which was just the sum I wanted for the printer. I had much offered me in my travel through the state; but was unwilling to give Satan any ground to hedge up my way, and of course refused the most of it. One day I had an appointment to preach, and then started for S. Carolina, through a part of some hundreds of miles, where I never was before, and had only a few cents at my command. However, my trust was still in God, who put it into the hearts of some, as we were parting and shaking hands, to leave about seven dollars in my hand; so I went on and saw some more providences of God; I also saw some evils. Near Ral- eigh, N. Carolina, a petty constable attempted to take me up as a horse thief. Col. Paul Rushiao, of Chesterfield county, South OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 171 Carolina, took me up also, and examined my private writings, and gave me some of the most abusive, dirty language I ever met with in my life. I found brother Dougherty, the presiding elder, had given me out a chain of appointments through his district, of sev- eral hundred miles, which I fulfilled, and arrived back at Peters- burgh, in Georgia, according to appointment when going away. Here my wants were relieved, mostly by major John Oliver, who came and called me his spiritual father, and so did several others, and I saw a great change in the inhabitants. RULES FOR HOLY LIVING. Serious considerations for the value of the soul; with the short- ness and uncertainty of time, and the duty that you owe to God; with the awful consequences of living and dying in sin! Remember that by nature you are a fallen, degenerate creature, therefore ye must be regenerated and born of the Spirit; for without holiness no man shall see the Lord. Consequently be persuaded and resolve, through grace, to begin and spend, and close every day with God, forsaking all known sin, with unnecessary wicked company; having your heart drawn out after God, in a praying frame, with your mind solemnly staid upon Him, in quest of truth, that you may enjoy His favor here, and ex- perience His benedictions forever in Christ Jesus. 178 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, CHAPTER XI. CASOLINAS AND TENNESSEE TOUR. October 28th, 1803. After an absence of about seven months, I arrived back in Georgia, having travelled upwards of 4000 miles. When I left this state I was handsomely equipped for travelling, by some friends whom God had raised me up, in time of need, after my trials on my journey from New England. My equipment was as follows: My horse cost £4:5, a decent saddle and cloth, port- mantau and bag, umbrella and lady's shove whip; a double suit of clothes, a blue broad cloth cloak, given me by a gentleman; shoes, stockings, cased hat, a valuable watch, with fifty-three dollars in my pocket for spending money, &c. But now, on my return, I had not the same valuable horse, and my watch I parted with for pecu- niary aid to bear my expenses. My pantaloons were worn out; my riding chevals were worn through in several places. I had no stockings, shoes nor moccasons (an Indian shoe) for the last several hundred miles; no outer garmentj having sold my cloak in West Florida. My coat and vest were worn through to my shirt; my hat case and umbrella were spoiled by prongs of trees, whilst riding in the woods. Thus, with decency, I was scarce able to get back to my friends as I would. It is true, I had many pounds and handsome presents pffered me in my journey, but I could not feel freedom to receive them, only just what would serve ray present necessity, to get along to my appointments, as I was such a stran- ger in the country, and so many to watch me (as an impostor) for evil, and but few to lift up my hands for good. As I considered that the success and opening of many years de- pended on these days, I was not willing to give any occasion for the gospel to be blamed, or any occasion to h 'dge up my way. For it was with seriousness and consideration that I took these journeys, from conviction of duty, that God required it at my hands. And knowing that impostors are fond of money, I was convinced that OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 173 Satan would not be found wanting, to whisper in the minds of the people, that my motives were sinister or impure. Major John Oliver came and took me by the hand, calling me father, saying, "when you preached in Petersburg last, your text was constantly ringing in my ears, for days together, whether I would deal kindly and truly with the master, &c. So I had no peace till I set out to seek the Lord; and since, my wife and I have been brought to rejoice in the Almighty." He gave me a vest, pantaloons, umbrella, stockings, handker- chief, and a watch, &c. Another gave me a pair of shoes and a coat; and a third a cloak, and a few shillings of spending money from some others. Thts I find that Providence, whose tender care is over all his works, by his kind hand is still preserving me; Oh! may I never betray His great cause committed to my charge! I visited^the upper counties and had refreshing seasons amongst my friends, from the presence of the Lord. General Stewart in- formed me of a remarkable circumstance, of a man who heard the doctrine of unconditional election and reprobation preached up; the devil told him that he was one of the reprobates, which drove him to despair; so heput an end to his life by blowing out his brains. An Ardouble-L-part minister, who held the doctrine of uncondi- tional election and reprobation, preached up good works, saying it would do no good to preach his sentiments, which caused my spir- itual father, in the gospel, to observe to him, "that a doctrine which is not fit to be preached is not fit to be believed." I held a meeting in a republican meeting house, i.' e., one free for all denominations. I spoke on A-double-L-partism; and an A- double-L-part preacher present, being asked how he liked the preaching, he replied, that he held, and preached no contrary senti- ments himself; but afterwards be did his uttermost to cut ray doctrine to pieces, and blacken my character. I preached in peorgetown, and set out at eight at night for Augusta, and travel- ling nearly all night, I came to a camp where some negroes were toting tobacco to market; and I stopped with them until day, and one gave me some corn for my horse. ***** The mode of toting tobacco to market, is by rolling it in casks, with a wooden axle through the midst, on the ends of which are fastened the shafts 174 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, for the horse to' draw it by; 15 or 16 hundred weight may thus ^be pressed and carried to market. The next day, missing my road, I gave away my pockiet handker- chief for a pilot; November 20th, I arrived at camp meeting at Rehoboth; I took Master "I am" for my text, with observing that he offered a great reward for runaways; whose marks I would describe. The audi- tory amounting to about 5,000, sunk into a solemn silence, whilst I described the diabolical marks of sinners^, and the reward for their return. About fifty souls were born to God. There were 44 tents; 8 wooden huts; 48 covered waggons, beside carriages, &c., of various sorts. Many I parted with here whom perhaps I shall never see more, and set off for St. Mary's, in company with several of the preachers; and as we hove in sight of town, I inquired its name, and felt an impulse to stop and hold meeting, which I did, intending to overtake my company next day; but leaving Warrington late at night, I rodjE several miles and stopped to inquire the road; the man within knew my voice, and persuaded me to alight and tarry until morning, when he accompanied me to meeting, in Bethel meeting house, where I was drawn particularly, to speak on the subject of murder and murderers; after which brother Mead observed, that two mm-derers were supposed to be present. ;'; November 23, 1 spoke in Louisville, to as many a? could conve- niently get into the State house. Brigadier General John Stewart was then present. I attacked a A-double-L-partism,,and proposed a covenant to the auditory, to meet me at the throne of grace, for a limited period of time; which the gentlemen observing General Stewart to rise, followed his example, as a sign of their compliance with the proposal, which I observed they were bound by the prin- ciples of honor and veracity to keep. ''^ Whilst I was preaching, I pointed out the duty of rulers, as stew- ards of God and guardians- to the people, tha,t vice hiight be sup- pressed, and virtue encouraged. Whilst speaking also, I perceived the chair on which I stood on the writing table, to move twice or thrice, the cause of which I could not then ascertain; but sat down to prevent my falling. After meeting a young German having ob- served a Baptist preacher to put his foot on my chairYwice or thrice, OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 17i apparently with a design to tilt me over and set the house in a laugh- ter, [who was an A-double-L-part man] went and shook his fist in his face, intimating that [if he had him out of doors] he would pay him for his insult to the stranger. The A-double-L-part man being a member of the Legislature, complained of the young man to the house for having insulted him. The House ordered the young man to prison, and the next day to trial; as no member might be insulted whilst sitting in the House. — The young man pleaded that the member was not sitting at the time, and so was acquitted. This cost him about 50 dollars, and the State about 600; as the trial lasted two days. It was a few days after this, that I receivad a recommendation, as a preacher of the gospel to the world of mankind, signed by the Governor, Secretary, and twenty-eight members of the Legislature, with the great seal of the State. Bishop Asbury's appointments being given out, and it being un- certain whether he would attend; Stith Mead, who was presiding elder of the district, thought proper to send me on his own appoint- ments, to St. Mary's Quarterly meeting, whilst he intended to take the bishop's plan. 25th. The high waters retarded; but to prevent disappointing the people, in my circuitous route I made the greatest speed; and a gen- tleman traveller, supposing [from my speed] that I was some mur- derer, clapped spurs to his horse and pursued me to a meeting, where God's power was manifested among us. 26th. I held a two days meeting at Union meeting-house, where there was some quickening; but the A-double-L-part people were in this part raking my character. Hence to Kenootchy creek; and so to Tabor's creek; and Captain Mitchell [in whose house I held meeting] so interrupted, that we removed into the street; then he ordered me down fr6m the stage: so we retired to a neighboring plantation; but he took his norse and pistols, and interrupted us here also. Oh! the sin of drunkenness, which leads to murder! My evening appointment was not given out, near the Goose-ponds and I found it almost impossible to get a place to lodge. December 3d. I crossed the Altamaha, and met brother Isaac Cooke, who cante missionary from Conference here; the most dismal 176 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, marshy part where I was in, I found he had good success; though he was not without his enemies; but God for his indefatigable labors gave him upwards of an hundred members this year; and he had two meeting houses erected for the connexion. A clear conscience, is like a clear sky without a cloud; Oh! may I never live to be useless: I remember , Doctor Johnson said, "thou hast an ulcer or defect in thy liver, with which thou wast born into the world; and if thou livest high or intemperate, or bringest slight condemnation or burden on thy mind; or dost not labor hard, &c., &c., the nature of thy disorder is such thou wilt be in danger of being suddenly cut off; . but if thou art prudent, &c., thou mayest live as long as most others, unless some contagious disorder shall lay hold on thee;" the propriety of these remarks, I am convinced of from experience. We took our departure from Savannah, where we parted, and I spent a few days. The curse of God seems to rest about here since the days in which they treated John Wesley ill, and confiscated the property of George Whitfield, which was appropriated to religious and charitable purposes. Hence to Tuckissaking, where old father Boston lived, who re- ceived me as I left Savannah the first time I came to Georgia. — Last night as brother Cooke was preaching, a black woman was struck under conviction, with the power of God; her body was cold as a corpse, and laid aside sixteen hours as in a sweet sleep or state of insensibility, and no symptoms of life except a regular pulse. — Some thought that she would never come to; however she revived, praising God. I spoke and we had a refreshing time in the woods. I sent an appointment to Lanear's ferry on the Ogeechee river; on my arrival I found a stage erected in the woods, and a vast concourse of people, few of whom had ever seen me before. As I began meeting, I perceived a man uneasy; he got up and sat down, and up and down again, and walked round; which denoted some unusual uneasiness in his mind. After meeting I set off for my evening's appointment; several were going the same way. I abruptly spoke to one; "are you not sorry you came to meeting?" [not recollecting him to be the above man. J He replied, "Yes; and I believe it would have been bettejt fer me to have stayed at home and my horse eating grass." 1 OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 177 Hnderstand said he, you can tell fortunes: and if you can tell what is to come, you can tell what is past: tell me, did I ever kill any body? If I did I'll confess it before the people! Thus he twice or thrice strove to make me answer the question ; it made a solemn impression on my mind, so that I did not speak: but looking him in the face as we rode a distance, viewing it necessary to be guarded in my conduct as the company were strangers to me; I inquired his name as we parted at the forks of the road, however it made such an impression on my mind, that I could not but relate it to the congregation in Springfield court house; after meeting, the gentleman where I lodged informed me that this Squire H was supposed to be concerfled in a murder, with a man who was under sentence of death; it appears from the best accounts I could collect that this H was an A-double-L-part man, and believed, once in grace and always in grace; which brought me to reflection, [from the horrible circumstance,] what dangerous sentiments these are; not only in a religious point of view, to lull people to sleep, but also in a civil and political respect; for if one falls into public scan- dal and retaining an idea of being secured unchangeably in the fa- vor of God, he cannot be under the influence of the principles of honor, nor yel the idea of future reward and punishment; and of course he is a dangerous person to society — seeing civil, nor honora- ble, nor moral obligation will restrain him from his evil designs. — CC5~This is the truth, and cannot be confuted. I left my horse and cloak, expecting they would be sent to me, and with difficulty I reached the town of Augusta, where the conference was beginning to sit. Here I met Dr. Coke; he replied, "how do you do, Brother Dow? I am glad to see you; your warning to the people of Dublin, had like to have proved too true." . Here Stith Mead brought me the parchment of recommendation from the Governor, &c., and I gave him a testimonial of my sin- cerity and attachment to the Methodist body, and my approbation of the general tenor of their conduct, &c. Here I was talked over in conference; and after some conversation the Doctor observed, that I had done the the Methodist societies no injury that he Imew of: but in sundry instances to the reverse. N 1T8 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, Bishop Asbury directed the preachers to publish for me to preach in the meeting house during the setting of conference; which was done, and I gave my farewell to the people; and also my thoughts on different religious subjects; ( which were published under the title of, "Tht Chain of Lorenzo, by the request of his friends as his farewell to Georgia) as a present to the meeting house which was in debt. The cause of this publication originated from the false reports, and dust which the A-double-L-part people had raised against me; but my friends advised me to it, that the unprejudiced might judge for themselves, where the truth lay, and so thus the cloven foot be drawn out, and cut clear off: that when God had killed the old stock, there should be none to cany the news, and thus A-double-Lr.partism be driven from the land; which concern had driven me from Ireland that precious souls might escape as from the snare of the fowler. I sold my watch to pay for printing some religious handbills. Rules for Holy Living; which I distributed around town, and got some also printed on silk for the higher class [lest paper would be too much neglected;] one of which I had framed, and the Doctor tied it up for me in a paper aij^ superscribed it For His Excellency the Governor, which I left with an attorney to deliver, as I delivered one of my silk bills. Thus I left the conference, who had agreed not to hedge up my way, with weeping eyes and aching heart; and took my departure to South Carolina. With difficulty I crossed Savannah river; and a man who ciossed with me, took me behind him on his horse, and carried me over several runs of water: I got assistance to where my horse was; ha\ing several good times, and the A-double-L-part people looked sour. A fresh had been in the river, so I could not get my cloak; neither had I a second shirt at this time. But my trust is in God who has helped hitherto. On my way to'Charleston I spoke in an old Methodist meeting house; and at Cossahatehee: here was Mr. C, once an itinerant sensible preacher, but now cold in religion. Mr. B. heard me also; but has quitted the Methodists, and preaches A-double-L-part. Monday, January 9, 18fl4. I rode 52 miles, and arrived at Charleston late in the evening; and putup with W. Turpin, Esq,, who received me when I was first in this place, and procured picked meetings at his house. I find Mr. Hamet has gone to a world of OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. l?9 spirits, to answer for the deeds done in the body. As it respects his division, it appears his motives were impure, arising from a desire of popularity; in consequence, of which there was a breach of confidence by him as respected the incorporation of the house; awful to relate, he died drunk. I spoke in his house called Trinity Church; also in the Methodist meeting house. Here I saw Dr. Coke, who informed me, that he saw a recommendation for me at the house of brother John Harper, signed by some of the members of the legislature and the governor of the state, which has not yet fallen into my hands; the cause 1 know not, though I have sent for it repeatedly. Friday 13th, I left "Charleston, crossing a ferry, and rode 33 miles, keeping up with the mail stage. 14th. I crossed a bad ferry of several miles, in consequence of a fresh in the river, which took three hours, with the stage. Hence we went on to Georgetown, where I held a few meetings; and then rode 43 miles to Kingston, leaving brothers Mallard and Jones behind; the former was blessed in his labors here last year, and Hamet's conduct had done injury; Jones soon after was found drowned in a creek, supposed to have been seized with a fit of the epilepsy, which he was subject to; but the verdict of the coro- ner's jury vi^as, that he had died drunk; though he was exemplary for temperance and piety. I put up at a tavern, though a Methodist preacher lived near, hired a room for a meeting, and called in the neighbors. Next day I fell in with brothef Russel, who was going to his Station; so we crossed a ferry together, and continued on upwards of 80 miles, until we came to Wilmington, where I found religion low, and bigotry so prominent, particularly in the leading and local preacher, that had not Mr. Russel been with me, who was stationed here, I should have been shut out. I held several meetings, and got some religious hand bills printed on paper and silk, rules for holy living, which I distributed to the people of the town, and took my departure for Newburn. But this being so far north, and near the sea board, at this cold season of the year, that I almost perished with the cold, frost and snow, having no outer garment and my clothing thin. I held a few meetings in Newbern and proceeded to Washington, where I had liked to have been chilled in crossing a ferry; but after 180 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, getting somewhat warmed and. refreshed with a cup of tea, I pro- ceeded to meeting, wjiere God made it up to me. 20th. I spoke at Tarborongh, then at Prospect. 27th, at Samp- son's meeting house; Jones's at night, being now in North Carolina, near Virginia. Hence to Raleigh, and spoke twice in the state house. Here the petty constable who took me up as a horse stealer near this, did not meet me according to expectation; my appoint- ments were not given out according to direction. From hence I proceeded to Iredel county, to the house of a man of whom I had bought a horse, when on my way from New Eng- land to Georgia. Some people mocked him for giving me credit, saying, "you have lost your horse;" but now their mouth was shut, as I paid him his demand, although he only had my word. I visited several places around, and took my departure for Ten- nessee; having a cloak and shirt given to me. My money is now almost out; my expenses have been so enormous, in consequence of the unusual floods. In crossing the Celuda mountains the way was narrow; whilst precipices were on one side, the other arose perpendicular, which rendered it dangerous travelling in the night, had not the mountains been on fire, which illuminated the heavens to my convenience. February 14th, I spoke in Buncomb to more than could get into the Presbyterian meeting house, and at night also; and good I trust was done. The minister was not an A-double-L-part man, but pious. Next day I rode 45 miles in company with Dr. Nelson, across the dismal Allegheny mountains, by the warm springs; and on the way, a young man, a traveller, came in, where I breakfasted gratis at an inn, and said that he had but three sixteenths of a dollar left, having been robbed of seventy-one dollars on the way; and he being far from home I gave him half of what I had with me. My horse having a navel gall come on his back, I sol^ him, with the saddle, bridle, cloak and blanket, &c., on credit for about three fourths of the value, with an uncertainty whether I should ever be paid — lost forever — thus I crossed the broad French river in a ca- noe, and set out for my appointment; but fearing I should be behind time, I hired a man, whom I met on the road with two horses, to carry me five miles in haste for three shillings, which left me but one-sixteenth of a dollar. In our speed he observed, there was a OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 181 ni^ way, by which I could clamber the rocks, and cut off some miles; so we parted, he having not gone two-thirds of the way, yet insisted on the full sura. I took to my feet the nigh way as fast as I could pull on, as in- tricate as it was, and came to a horrid ledge of rocks, on the bank of the river where there was no such thing as going round; and to clamber over would be at the risk of my life, as there was danger of slipping into the river; however, being unwilling to disappoint the people, I pulled off my shoes, and with my handkerchief fastened them about my neck; and creeping upon my hands and feet with my fingers and toes in the cracks of the rocks with difficulty I got safe over; and in about fourmiles I came to a house, and hired a woman to take me over the river in a canoe, for my remaining money and a pair of scissors; the latter of which was the chief object with her; so our extremities are other's opportunities. Thus with difficulty I got to my appointment in Newport in time. I had heard about a singularity called the jerks or jerking exer- cise, which appeared first near Knoxville, in August last, to the great alarm of the people; which reports I considered at first, as vague and false; but at length like the Queen of Sheba, I set out to go and see for myself; and sent over these appointments into this country accordingly. When I arrived in sight of this town I saw hundreds of people collected in little bodies; and observing no place appointed for meet- ing, before I spoke to any, I got on a log and gave out an hymn, which caused them to assemble round, in solemn attentive silence. I observed several involuntary motions in the course of the meeting, which I considered as a specimen of the jerks. I rode seven miles behind a man across streams of water; and held meeting in the evening, being ten miles on my way. In the night I grew uneasy, being twenty-five miles from my ap- pointment for the next morning at eleven o'clock; I prevailed on a young man to attempt carrying me with horses until day, which he thought was impracticable, considering the darkness of the night, and the thickness of the trees. Solitary shrieks were heard in these woods, which he told me were said to be the cries of murdered pep. sons; at day we parted, being still seventeen miles from the spot, and the ground covered with a white frost. I had not proceeded far 182 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, before I came to a stream of water, from the spring of the mounfeai;o» which made it dreadful cold; in my heated state I had to ^ade tt48 stream five times in the course of about an hour, which I perceived so affected my body, that my strength began to fail. Fears began to arise that I must disappoint the people, till I observed some fresh tracks of horses which caused me to exert every nerve to overtake them, in hopes of aid and assistance on my journey, and soon I saw them on an eminence; I shouted for them tp stop, till I came up; they inquired what I wanted; I replied, I had heard there was meetr ing at Seversville by a stranger, and was going to it; they replied that they had heard that a crazy man was to hold forth there, and were going also; and perceiving that I was weary, they invited me to ride; and soon our company was increased to forty or fifty, who fell in with us on the road, from different plantations. At length I was interrogated, whether I knew any thing about the preacher? I replied, I have heard a good deal about him, and had heard him preach, but I had no great opinion of him; and thus the conversation continued for some miles before they found me out, which caused some color and smiles in the company; thus I got on to meeting; and after taking a cup of tea gratis, I began to speak to a vast audi- ence; and I observed about thirty to have the jerks; though they strove to keep still as they could; these emotions were involuntary, and irresistible, as any unprejudiced mind might discern. Lawyer Porter, who had come a considerable distance, got his heart touched under the word, and being informed how I came to meeting, volun-f tarily lent me a horse to ride near one hundred miles, and gave me a dollar, though he had never seen me before. i Hence to Marysville, where I spoke to about one thousand five hundred; and many appeared to feel the word, but about fifty felt the jerks. At night I lodged with one of the Nicholites, a kind of Quakers, who do not feel free to wear colored clothes. I spoke to a number of people at his house that night. Whilst at tea I ob- served his daughter, who sat opposite to me at table, to have the jerks, and dropped the tea cup from her hand in the violent agita- tion. I said to her, "Young woman, what is the matter?" She replied, «I have got the jerks." I asked her how long she had it. She observed, "A few days," and that it had been the means of OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 183 the awakening and conversion of her soul, by stirring her up to serious consideration about her careless state. Sunday, February 19th, I spoke in Knoxville to hundreds more than could get into the court house, the governor being present. About one hundred and fifty appeared to have the jerking exercise, among whom was a circuit preacher, (Johnson) who had opposed them a little before, but he now had them powerfully; and I believe he would have fallen over three times had not the auditory been so crowded that he could not, unless he fell perpendicularly. After meeting I rode eighteen miles to hold meeting at night. — The people of this settlement were mostly Quakers; and they had said, as I was informed,*the Methodists and Presbyterians have the jerks because they sing and pray so much, but we are a still, peace- able people, wherefore we do not have them. However, about twen- ty of them came to meeting to hear one, as was said, somewhat in a Quaker line; but their usual stillness and silence was interrupted; for about a dozen of them had the jerks as keen and as powerful as any I had seen, so as to have occasioned a kind of grunt or groan when they would jerk. It appears that many have undervalued the great revival, and attempted to account for it on natural principles; therefore it seems to me, from the best judgment I can form, that God hath seen proper to take this method to convince people that he will work in a way to show his power; and sent the jerks as a sign of the times, partly in judgment for the people's unbelief, and yet as a mercy to convict people of divine realities. I have seen Presbyterians, Methodists, Quakers, Baptists, Church of England, and Independents, exercised with the jerks; gentleman and lady, black and white, the aged and the youth, rich and poor, without eixoeption; &om which I infer, as it cannot be accounted for on natural principles, and carries such marks of involuntary motion, that it is no trifling matter, I believe that those who are most pious and given up to God, are rarely touched with it; and also those naturalists, who wish and try to get it to philosphize upon it are excepted; but the lukewarm, lazy, half-hearted, indolent professor is subject to it; and many of them I have seen, who, when it came upon them, would be alarmed and stirred up to re- double their diligence with God; and after they would get happy, were thankful it evei; came upon them. Again, the wicked are 1S4 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. frequently more afraid of it than the small pox or yellow fever; these are subject to it; but the persecutors are more subject to it than any, ■ and they sometimes have carsed and swore, and damned it, whilst jerking. There is no pain attending the jerks except they resist it, which if they do, it will weary them more in an hour than a day's labor, which shows that it requires the consent of the will to avoid suffering. 20th. I passed by a meeting house, where I observed the under- growth had been cut down for a camp meeting, and from fifty to one hundred saplings left breast high, which to me appeared so Slovenish that I could hot but ask my guide the cause, who observed they were topped so high, and left for the people to jerk by. This so excited my attention that I went over the ground to view it; and found where the people had laid hold of them and jerked so power- fully that they had kicked up the earth as a horse stamping flies. I observed some emotion, both this day and night among the peo- ple; a Presbyterian minister, with whom I stayed, observed, "Yes- terday whilst I was preaching, some had the jerks, and a young man from N. Carolina mimicked them, out of derision, and soon was seized with them himself, which was the case with many others; he grew ashamed, and on attempting to mount his horse to go off, his foot jerked about so that he could not put it into the stirrup; some younsters seeing this, assisted him on, but he jerked so that he could not sit alone, and one got up to hold him on, which was done with difficulty. I observing this, went to him and asked him what he thought of it. Said he, "I believe God sent it on me for my wickedness, and making so light of it in others;" and he re- quested me to pray for him. I otiserved his wife had it; she said she was first attacked with it in bed. Dr. Nelson said he had frequently strove to get it, in or- der to philosophize upon it, but could not; and observed they could not account for it on natural principles. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 186 CHAPTER XIL VISIT THROUGH VIRGINIA. I CALLED at a gentleman's house to get som>: breakfast, and in- quired the road; the gentleman observing my tin case in my pocket, (containing my credenlial from the state of Georgia) and supposing me to be some vile character, took it out and examined the contents without asking my consent; when he had got about half through, as he looked at me I observed he turned pale. He gave me what I wanted, and treated me as a king. I had not been long gone from the house before a runner on foot overtook me, and another servant on horseback, with a request that I should go back and preach. I did, to many of the neighbors, who were called in. The mistress deserted during the meeting; which to me she denied, until the servants affirmed that she was in the negro house. I observed to her, that I considered her absence a slight, as they had called me back, and to make it up with me, desired she should let me know the cause of her absence. She replied, she was afraid of the jerks more than of the small-pox or yellow fever. Next day he gave me some money and sent a horse with me several miles; and then I took to my feet and went on to Greenville, and so on to Abington in Virginia. The last jerks that I saw was a young woman, who was severely exercised during the meeting. She followed me into the house, and I observed to her the indecency and folly of such public gestures and grunts; and requested, (speak- ing sternly, to make an impression on her mind) ifg^je had any regard for her character, to leave it off. She replied, " I will if I can." I took her by the hand, looking her in the face and said, do not tell lies. I perceived by the motion of her hand, that she ex- erted every nerve to restrain it, but instantly she jerked as if it would have jerked her out of her skin, if it were possible. I did 186 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, this to have an answer to others on the subject, which I told her, that my abruptness might leave no bad impression on her mind. These appointments had been given out rising of six months, with the days and hours fixed. I replied in Abington, as I was dismis- sing the auditory, that on such a day thirteen months, at such an hour, I should be in town to hold a meeting, God willing; and steered westerly on a circuitous route to Turswell; where I preached in a sink hole, formed by nature, to a vast auditory; being accom- modated thus far by an attorney's horse. Here I saw a gentleman, a stranger, of whom I purchased a horse at a word, and proceeded across the mountains of Clinch, which were tremendous high, and covered with snow, and having no outer garment I felt as if I should freeze; however all was made up in good meetings on the other side. So I came to Wyth court house; thence to Grayson and the Lead Mines; thence to New River, so to Montgomery, to Salem, Fincastle and Lexington, where I spoke in the Presbyterian meeting house; Woodstock, Rocktown, so on to Newtown, where God was graciously with us; thence to Winchester, where I spoke in the Methodist chapel; and a champion bully of a A-double-L- part minister was present, for whom a Methodist preacher's heart did ache; next day he went from house to house amongst his friends, to represent me as a crazy man, but three of his pillars were sha- ken, one of whom replied to him, "If a crazy man will talk so, what would he be if he was in his right mind?" which seemed to confound him. I preached at Frontroyal, and crossed the Blue Ridge in the night, in order to get on to my next day's appointment; a deist was present; on hearing me observe, that no man was a deist who would not dare to take an oath to relinquish all favors from God through Christ," he began to examine whether he would be willing, and some replied, "No, not for ten thousand worlds." Thus his foundation shook, and conviction ensued. An A-double-L-part man, who had followed up my meetings perceiving the man to be shaken, appointed a time to answer my discourse; but whilst attempting to answer it, forgot one of the heads of the discourse; which so confounded him that he com- plained of being unwell, and concluded his meeting; and so sunk into disgrace. I spoke in Culpepper court-house, and then rode 50 miles or OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 187 more to Charlottsville, near the President's seat in Albemarle county. I spoke to about 4000 people, and. one of the President's daughters, who was present, died a few days after. Hence I went circuitously to Lynchburg, where I spoke in the open air, in what I conceived to be the seat of Satan's kingdom. From thence to New London, where I began speaking in the court house: where Papa and Mamma Hobson came in, and we had a gracious time. Hence I fell in with brother Stith Mead, and we went on to the camp meeting, which I had appointed last August. March 22d. Several families came about twenty miles, and en- camped on the ground, fliough there were but few Methodists any where short of that distance; the weather was chilly, the clouds appeared threatening and the prospects before us very gloomy; how- ever we opened our complaint to God, who graciously heard our cry sent off the clouds and gave us a beautiful sun. 28d. About fifteen hundred people appeared on the ground, and the Lord began a gracious work that day, which I trust hell shall never be able toextinguish. One soul found peace-before night, and another in the night. 25. About three thousand people attended; the solemnity and ten- derness, and prospect of good increased. 25th. Sunday. About five thousand on the ground, and, in gen- eral, good attention. Colonel Calloway and a number of respec- table gentlemen used their endeavors to protect our peaceable privi- leges. Monday 26th. About three thousand appeared on the ground, and the rejoicing of old saints, the shouts of young converts, and the cries of the distressed for mercy, caused the meeting to continue all night, until we parted Tuesday morning the 27th. About fifty, during this meeting, professed to have found the par- doning love of God; from hence the work went home with the peo- ple and spread over the country, as may be seen from the following letters, sent by William Heath, Methodist preacher, to Ezekiel Cooper, one of the book stewards to the connexion, and the Eev. Stith Mead to Bishop Asbury. 188 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, Richmond District, Aug. 4, 1802. "I have been in the habit of communicating to you, the remark able occurrences which have fallen in my way from time to time; but your being kept from us in the south by sickness, I have been at a loss where to direct my intelligence. Being informed yon shortly will be in Baltimore, I shall endeavor to throw the follow- ing narrative in your way; but passing over a great number of pleas- ing scenes which might be noticed for brevity's sake I shall confine myself to giving you a list of the camp and other meetings of mag- nitude, with their immediate effects, and then, in an aggregate, the consequence of the meetings will be seen on a more enlarged scale; though still much of their fruit will be unnoticed; being scattered generally over the circuits. Dates of meetings. 1804. March 23-2'? April 21-23 May Places. Bedford county, Campbell county. Goose Creek, Lynchburg, . . . . Tabernacle, . . . . New Hope Chapel, Tabernacle, . . . . Flat Rock, - . . . Lynchburg, _ . . . New-Hope Chapel, Tabernacle, . . . . Charity Chapel, Pauhauta, Bethel Chapel, Leftwich'e Capel, Bedford circuit, New Hope, Bottetourt, r - • • Fincastle, *."... Ebenezer Cha{)el, Bedford, Tabernacle, ... Oaks, Amherst, Brown's Chapel, Campbell, Sept. 28, Oct. 1 Chesnut Chapel, Franklin, 1805. 000 Mar. 29 Ap. 2 Oarley's Chapel, Bedford, 5-11 12-15 17-21 30 31 June 1 June 3 8-12 July 20-24 28-29 Aug. 2-7 8 1-21 3 Sept. 8 7-1 -21-25 Converted. 50 24 16 16 100 ■ 100 150 20 50 40 100 20 - 100 30 50 20 - 50 20 40 30 10 - 20 Joined. 40 39 140 49 48 60 60 19 n 17 13 12 1 18 1036 538 "In this great and glorious work, it may be observed, that at the close of two months, I numbered six hundred converted, and five OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 189 hundred and twenty added to the church: and in the six months, and that principally at the meetings, the number cdiverted amounted to eleven hundred and seventy-six, and eight hundred and fifty joined the Methodist Episcopal Church. With the preachers in the five circuits, Bedford, Bottetourt, Amhurst, Cumberland and Franklin, each having one or more camp meetings, hundreds were brought to God, and into his militant church; and other denominations have shared largely the fruits of our labors. "In this work it may be remarked, that I have baptized near one hundred adult believers, from ten to twenty at a time; and after giving them the choice of the mode, there has not been one instance wherein they have chosett immersion; and the blessing of God has visibly attended the ordinance by aflfusion; and there are but few who have joined, but what professed saving religion previous to their joining. Persecution has raged in proportion to the revival; but hitherto the Lord has helped us — and we can say with the apos- tle, 2 Cor. vi, 6, By honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report, as deceivers and yet true; as unknown and yet well known; as dying and behold we live; as chastened and not killed; as sorrowful and yet alwjiys rejoicing; as poor yet making many rich; as having nothing yet possessing all things. STITH MEAD." Extract of a letter from William Heath to Ezekiel Cooper, Lynchburg, July 24, 1804. '♦To you, I suppose, it will be a matter of joy, to hear of the pK)sperity of Zion in these parts of the Lord's vineyard. "The camp meetings, which have been usual in the south and west for some years, never began with us until last spring. "On the 23d of March, a camp-meeting was held by L. D. [Lo- renzo Dow,J in conjunction with a number of other preachers and ministers, at which fifty souls professed to find peace with God: from this the work of God spread in almost every direction, for many were awakened at this meeting, who afterwards found the pearl of great price. At the several meetings which were held at Flat Creek meeting house, by the 16th of April, twenty-four souls professed convertinff grace; and the work has continued more rapid 190 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, at that place ever since: forty have joined the church there; and sixteen in the neigHborhood above that have professed conversion and planted a society among us. In the town and vicinity, from the biginning of the work in April until now, from six to twelve and sixteen, at a meeting, have professed to find the pearl of great price; so that from a class of twenty members, we have now one hundred and sixty. Bless the Lord, O my soul! and let the people magnify his holy name! "On the 4th of May, a meeting was appointed at a place fifteen miles above us, called the Tabernacle, to be held three days; but the work was so great, that it continued five days, day and night, with very little intermission: in which time one hundred were thought to obtain true conversion. From the 12th to the 15th of May, at a place called New Hope, five miles from town, we had another meeting, which continued also day and night, at which there were about one hundred professed to get converted, and many are daily added to our numbers. From the 17th to the 22nd of May, meeting again, at Tabernacle meeting house, at which place the people encamped on the ground, and continued preaching, pray- ing and other godly exercises, night and day, for the five days, in ■which time one hundred and fifty were thought to be savingly con- verted, and one hundred and forty joined the Methodist church at that time and place. From the 8th to the 12th of June, another camp meeting was held at Charity Chapel, Powatan, at which one hundred souls were thought to obtain saving conversion, and sixty joined the Methodist church. From the 20th to the 24th of this month we had a camp-meeting in Bedford, at Leftwich's meeting house, at which one hundred and ten came forward and gave testi- mony of their faith, that God had converted their souls. Very many are the prayer, class and preaching meetings, not mentioned here, at which the Lord pours out his spirit in a wonderful manner. Considering the low ebb of religion among us, before the revival began, I can truly say, that I never saw or read of greater times; true, the times mentioned by brother Cox, in his letter to Bishop Coke, in 1786, were great; but I was in the whole of that revival, as well as this, and it is my opinion, that this revival far exceeds that. "The glorious work is spreading in various directions, and OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 191 extensively. It is diiefly among the Methodists; though our Pres- byterian brethren are very friendly, and labor mightily with and among us. Indeed, my brother, we hope, and at times are almost led to believe, that the glorious millenium is ushering on! Proclaim, at your pleasure, the contents of this, or any part. "I am, in the best of bonds, Thine, &c., WILLIAM HEATH." I was unwell the latter part of this meeting, from an unusual in- cident, but after the mseting broke up, I rode in a walk thirty miles and lay down upon a table with a blanket and pillow, and spoke to several hundreds in the open air at night. I had been necessitated to alight several times, and rest, laying upon the ground in the course of the day. 28th. I rode in great misery eleven miles and sppke to hundreds, an hour by sun in the morning. Thence to Franklin court house at twelve o'clock, and some were offended, but good I trust was done. In the evening I spoke twelve miles off; but was grieved with the family; could not eat with them, but next morning quitted them be- times, and went to Henry court house: spoke to about fifteen hun- dred people; and stayed with general Martin at night; where we had a good time. 30th. I started this morning an hour before day, and rode thirty miles to Pittsylvania court house. Here were several of my spirit- ual children, amongst whom was Polly Callaway, whom I had once pointed at whilst preaching, the first time she ever saw me; and God struck her under conviction; she ran away thirty miles to a camp meeting, where God set her s^ul at liberty; and almost the whole of her father's family have been brought to God: and her brother has become an itinerant preacher. One soul was set at liberty to-day, some mocked and caused interruption, but good was done during the three meetings. It is eight years this morning since I parted with my parents, on the errand in which I am now engaged: I still feel, "woe is me if I preach not the gospel." Hitherto I have been preserved (through the providence of God,) by land and sea, through storms and 192 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, afflictions, with the temptations of friends and foes: but the Lord hath kept me, glory to his holy name! 31st. I held meeting sun half hour high, and then rode eighteen miles to Wilson's meeting house; these were tender times — eight miles hence I spoke at night. Sunday, April 1st. I spoke at Rockingham court house, North Carolina, to fifteen or sixteen hundred people, who appeared in gen- eral solemn and well behaved, considering the inconvenience of standing in the freezing air and falling snow, more than two hours. I rode twelve miles and spoke at night. 2d. I spoke at Danville to about two thousand; this was the seat of Satan's kingdom, yet I believe I shall one day see good times in this quarter. Some children were brought forward, for me to pray for them, instead of offering them up in baptism, which I had never seen before. 3rd. I rode thirty miles to Halifax, Virginia, where I spoke to about two thoug&,nd, and in general good attention. A family of A-double-L-part people without my knowledge or consent, appointed me a meeting, and, to excuse the matter, said they would pilot me a road five miles shorter to my next day's meeting. To prevent disappointing the people I complied, but on my arrival before I en- tered the house, I inquired whether I might feel at home whilst I stayed? They replied "yes." I then observed, that I had come forty miles, and would be glad of a cup of tea or coffee, as I could not take food without them. They took their dinner, and prepared not mine, until it was time to begin meeting; but as I would suffer nothing to clash with my appointments, and finding the people talka- ative, I got on a table by a porch out of doors, in the dark unseen, and with a stamp, as if I would have stove the table through, and clapping my hands at the same instant with all my might, I cried with exertion, "hush," which caused a solemn silence amongst the people, and then began meeting; having told the family if my food was r^ady, I would take it when I had done. When I had finished, I found it not ready and cold; and being so weary I was unable to sit up, I retired to rest, observing, I must be off betimes in the morning, and they must accommodate my breakfast accordingly, which however was not ready till I got on my horse; neither did they procure me a pilot; thus I went twenty OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 193 three miles to Charlotte court-house, got some breakfast, and spoke. The above family, after I was gone, told lies about me, and one of their preachers appeared friendly to my face, but acted like them behind my back, saying that I said, " Jesus Christ was a liar," &c. Next year, when I came this way again, this family had another appointment for me; but as it happened, before the son, who had come to meeting, delivered his invitation, I prayed to God to have mercy on those who had told lies about me, which caused shame to prevent him from doing his errand: so they had to look to the dis- appointment themselves. April 5th. A Presbytery was sitting at Prince Edward, and many lawyers were here-»-it being court time; I spoke to about three thousand people, standing upon the stocks or pillory, on the subject of predestination and deism, showing the one to be the foundation of the other. The court adjourned whilst I spoke. I added "a man present hath some books, which contain the essence of what I spoke, if any of you should desire to procure them." A ministers observing the attention of the great and small, and also the sale of the books, replied, that the stocks were the fittest place for me, which showed the bitterness of his heart, and procured him no small disgrace amongst his friends. Lynchburg was a deadly place for the worship of God; but my friends asked, what shall be done with the profits of your Chain? which they computed at five hundred dollars; I replied, " I give the profits to build a brick chapel in Lyrtchburg, for the Methodists, reserving only the privilege of preaching in it, when not occupied by them, and whilst my conduct shall continue as unexceptionable as it is now." 6th. I spoke at Tarwalkt church in the day time, and at night at John Hobson's, Jr., whom I called my Papa, and his wife my Mamma. His mother, who is near ninety years of age, as l^sked her if she prayed, thought what should I pray for unless it be to get home safe from meeting; but in the night whilst she meditated upon the above thoughts of her mind, reflected what have I been about all my life time? I am near one hundred years old, and never considered upon my future state; here conviction seized her mind; she went in the morning to her son's and desired prayer, and in about a week she was brought to rejoice in God. 184 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE, 7th. Papa took me in a chair to Cartersville. The first time I visited this place, I sent to an inn-keeper to preach in his house, who replied, as was said, he would first meet me in hell; he shortly after died, and shocking to relate No one offered a place, except one man a room, which would contain ahout a dozen; at length I got the liberty of a tobacco shed or ware-house,' where I spoke to about five hundred. One man rode into the company, and continued on his horse about two hoursj until I had done; it rained so tremendously that the people, who were mostly excited by curiosity, were compelled to stay until I finished. So I left the town without eating or drinking; but now there was a stage erected for me, and I spoke to about two thousand. I observed to the people their former coolness, and told them that I would neither eat nor drink with them this time, but- intended to clear my skirts of their blood; several were brought under convic- tion, and since were brought to rejoice in God. I received seve- ral invitations, but would not break my word, which gave great offence. The third time I visited this place God gave me favor in the sight of the people, prejudice seemed to be removed and we had a gracious time. 8th- I spoko under snme shades at Powhatian, about two thou- sand present; we had a good time, except one drunken man, and some few took offence. 9th. I addressed an auditory on some boards, at Chesterfield court-house, and in Manchester at night. 10th. I spoke in Richmond to about two thousand .\, Here I found several spiritual children, the fruit of my first visit. Here the posts of the gallery sunk two inches, crushing the bricks on which they stood, and two inches more would have let down hun- dreds of people upon those beneath. 11th. I returned to Cumberland to prepare my Address to the people of Virginia for the press. I commtmicated my thoughts to Papa and Mamma Hobson, who, after seriously weighing the circumstances, gave their advice and consent concerning my marriage. Sunday 15th. I came to Petersburg; some were noisy, and some were tender in meeting. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 196 A young gentleman carried me in a gig to Osborne church; he. a few days after was flung from the gig and soon expired. Oh! how- uncertain is life! Oh! the necessity of being always ready! ! I spoiie under the Federal Oaks, to about seventeen hundred — we had a melting time. Trials I expect are at the door; the clouds seem gathering fast, and to none but a Divine Providence can I look as an interposing friend. I am taught to use all men as friends, and yet to put myself in the power of none, but to make God my only friend, and put my whole confidence in him, for whom else can I rely upon? The fable saith, that the snake to oblige the porcupine, suffered him to come into his den oift of the cold, the latter growing warm, began to bristle up and stir about, and the quills to prick the snake, which caused him to request the other to be goncj or else behave. He replied, " I'm well enough off, and if you do not like the place you may seek rest elsewhere." Brother Mallard writes thus: " I am out of hell, thank God, Christ was rebuked by Peter, his friends thought him beside himself: Joshua thought it wrong in those who prophesied in the camp. — Aaron and Miriam rose up against Moses; and John with others forbid one who was casting out devils in the name of Christ, be- cause he followed not with them; and ignorant brothers cause trialsji though well-meaning, besides those from false brethren, hypocrites, and backsliders." There are trials enough daily, without borrow- ing trouble from the morrow. All is well now, to-morrow may take thought for itself. I spoke at Prince George court house, and though there were but few religious people, it was a tender time notwithstanding it was muster day. 1 rode fourteen miles and spoke in the afternoon in Jone's Hole church to hundreds. A Quaker girl (who was excited hither, ) was brought under concern of mind, in the nieeting, and had no rest till the Lord spoke peace to her soul. The next day I saw her she was rejoicing in God. Here I met Jesse Lee, and rode home with him to his father's, whose house has been a preach- ing house most constantly for thirty years, and I suppose one of the oldest in America. I communicated my intention to publish my Journal, and ap- ply the profit towards building a meeting house in the city of 196 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. Washington, as a gentleman had offered to give me a spot of ground for that purpose. J L said that he had no objection if I told the whole truth, and gave the meeting house to the Methodists, which was then my intention. But one of the Conferences making some objection at my building meeting houses for them, I afterwards altered my mind, and gave what I conceived to be the profits to some methodist trustees, still in the District of Columbia, which contains ten miles square, and includes the cities of Washington, Georgetown, and Alexandria. 18th. I had a meeting at Sussex court house, then at Jones' meeting house, where 1 met five travelling preachers on their way to General Conference. 19th. Had meeting at Hall's meeting house and Dinwiddie court house, and appointed a camp meeting to commence on the 8th of March following. 21st. I spoke at the camp meeting ground, and the next day at Brunswick court house, and at night at Ellis' meeting house, to about one thousand. One professed to have found peace. Ira El- lis is one of the old travelling preachers, and Dromgoole also, who live in this-country. It inspires me with a sympathetic reflection, when I fall in company with those who were the first in plant- ing the infant Methodist church in America, and when I see how some have backslidden, others retired in oblivion, a few still engag- ed, and the rest gone to glory. I spolie at Hicksford, in the court house, and at a widow's in the night; I stood upwards of three hours in these meetings, and it was a happy time to me. 24th. I rode to Jones' church, and from thence to Jerusalem, a place noted for wickedness; I spoke in the court .house, but none asked me either to eat or to drink, which was the greatest inhospi- tality I had met with for some time. The town was beautifully situated on the bank of a river- 26th. I held meeting at Suffolk and Jolly's chapel; some A- double-L-part people took offence, but good I trust was done. 27th. I spoke at Portsmouth to more than could get into the house. Without there was disturbance, within was peace. At brother Green's also we had a good time, whilst some fell to the floor and raised the people in the street. OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. lS7 28th. I spoke in Norfolk and Portsmouth; and some souls were set at liberty. I refused some money and got some hand bills print- ed and then had a sufficiency leftto pay my ferriage; however some one slipped some money into my pocket which answered the end; so I still perceived that the calls of God's Spirit and the openings of his providence go hand in hand. 29th. The Church minister and Baptist gave over their meetings, which gave me a fine opportunity of addressing the people, both in the Methodist chapel and in the church; in the latter of which one fell as in the agonies of death. I feel as if my work in this coun- try was drawing towards a close, and my heart drawn towards England. Oh! how easy some people can rest, and even ministers, and see so little fruit of their labor. 30th. I rode to Yorktown, where Cornwallis was taken prisoner, and the cave to which he retired during the siege still remains, being cut on purpose for him in a rock. The effects of the siege and shot still remain; the town is since of little consequence. I spoke in the church to what I could, but I doubt if there be one white, a Christian in the plaice. I crossed York river to Glouces- ter side and spoke again. May 1st. I spoke at Mount Zion, had a good time^ saw some of brother Mead's spiritual children seven years old. Hence to Bellamy's chapel; stood about six hours this day, but I and my horse had but little to eat till night, having travelled about thirty miles. 2d. Had meeting at Shacklesford chapel and the new church. The Church of England was once the established religion, (by law) in this state; the clergyman was allowed sixteen thousand pounds weight of tobacco yearly, as his salary from the parish. — When the war commenced between England and America, the Legislature of this state thought it unreasonable to compel a man to pay, and so deprive him of his natural privilege of showing his voluntary liberality; and also to compel one to pay to the support of those in whose ministry he did not believe. Part of the clergy gave over preaching, while others, supposing the Virginians would be conquered after the above act, and their arrears made up to them, continuued their attendance for a while; but after the taking of Cornwallis, they deserted the churches also. 198 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. and left them vacant, which caused the Legislature to permit other denominations to use them, and many scores of the best buildiiigs,in this state are now going to ruin. However, about three or four con- tinued to officiate, which shows that they preached for tobacco and not for soijLS. 3d. 1 spoke at Peace meeting house, and also in the Baptists' chapel. Benjamin Peace had borne an unblemished character as preacher, and at length fell into a decline, which he bore with Christian for- titude; calling for his shroud and grave clothes, dressed himself in them as one great hero on an important expedition; then bade his wife, son, and daughters farewell, and orders to have the Society notified; " I am done fighting, my soul is in glory," — and with his hands fixed in a proper attitude, went off triumphant. This is a match for an infidel. 4th. I spoke for four hours lacking thirteen minutes, under the shades between two trees at Cole's Chapel, to a crowded, serious, attentive auditory. In the midst of my discourse, I observed a man at the other side of the trees, whom I considered as a backslider; it ran repeatedly through my mind to ask him before the people, if the language of his heart was not contained in these words, " What peaceful hours I once enjoy'd ! How sweet their memory still, But they have left an aching void The world can never fill." And at length I proposed the question, after telling the congregation the cause, and requested him if it wag, to give me his hand; which he did to the surprise of the people; he was a Baptist as I was after- wards told; and continued uneasy in his mind for, some weeks,, till some of his people plastered him up with the old doctrine, "once in grace always in grace." 5th. I rode forty-two miles to Port Eoyal, and had a solemn time. 5th. I spoke in Fredericksburgh four times, and collected up-' wards of forty pounds for the benefit of a free school: the little boys who heard me preach, next day went all over town, spelling " A- double-L-part, few, elect, some, small number," &c., which divert- ed' some and exasperated others. HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. 199 7th. I spoke in Stafford and Dumfries court houses. 8th. I gave my last here; and spoke in a church on the way to Alexandria, where I ^poke at night and next morning. 9th. I spoke in Georgetown. 10th. I went to Montgomery, but finding my appointments not given out, I pushed on to Baltimore, making about sixty miles, and heard a sermon at night. Here brother Daniel O'Strander brought me heavy tidings, the death of my mother, the first that ever died out of my father's family. It gave me a tender sensation, but I could neither weep nor mourn; whilst these words were in my mind^ "Oh! is my mother gone! is she gone, never to return!" The last time I saw her, she requested that I should come and see them once a year, whilst she should live, which was then my intention; but God so wonderfully opened my way in the southern climes, that I could not find my way clear, although I had felt unu- sual exercise when I parted from her last, which I remarked to my friends; and also about the time of her decease; though it was near five, months after she died before I heard of it. 11th. I received a letter from my father, giving me the particu- lars of my mother's dissolution, and triumphant end, which was a little more than twelve aionths from the time I parted with her last. He also informed aie of the death of my brother Fish, which took place a few weeks before her's. When I saw him last, he was backslidden from God; it appears he was reclaimed in his last ill- ness, and made a happy exit. Jesse Lee advised me to preach in the market, and published it from the pulpit, and also prepared an advertisement for the public papers, for me to preach there a second time; there was a large con- course of people at the last meeting, and near one hundred preachers present, it being general Conference time. I come here to see if Uiey. intended to hedge up my way. Brother O'Strander informed me that the New. York Conference had conversed me over, and some were minded to block up my way, whilst others objected, say- ing, " he does us no harm, but we get the fruit of his labor," whilst the former urged my example was bad, for perhaps fifty Dows might spring, out of the same nest; so they agreed to discourage givihg out my appointments; and it appears that some came to this Conference with the intention to have a move to block up my way at one stroke, 200 HISTORY OF COSMOPOLITE. but on seeing the southern preachers and hearing of my conduct and success, their prejudice deserted them, and their opinions and views of things concerning me altered, as several of them told me, and became friendly, though before cool and distant. Stith Mead, who was on his way from Georgia to General Con- ference, when we piet at the camp meeting, got detained on account of the revival which then broke out, and spread as a fire on a moun- tain, in all directions. He wrote to Baltimore Conference, and also to me, that he conceived his presence would not be necessary there on my account. Nicholas Snethen I here heard preach in the life and power of the Holy Ghost. Oh! what an alteration in the man for the better! He once was a pleasant speaker to the ear, but little energy to the heart, until God knocked him down twice at a camp meeting, and gave him such a baptism as he never felt before. However, spiri- tual blessings may be abused through unfaithfulness to the Divine Spirit, and what need there is of our practising the Apostle's cau- tion "if any man think he standtth, let him take heed lest he fall." The preachers, as a body, seem unprejudiced, yet a few individ- uals are excepted, amongst whom R and W of ancient date, which I desired might be done away, and requested an inter- view for that purpose, but though one of theuci invited me to breaks fast, yet they both went out before the time*|ippointed, without acquainting the family, which caused me to feel awkward and abashed when I came. I had felt a desire to visit Boston for some time, but never saw ■^my way opening until now. George Pickering, who was presiding elder in Boston district, invited me to his jurisdiction, which I esteemed as a providence, expressed my gratitude, quitted Baltimore and returned to Richmond, where I put some manuscripts to press, and visited some neighboring places. I saw a man executed for the horrid crime of murder, having spoken to him through the grate the preceding day; some trifled when this awful catastrophe was exhibited. Papi Hobson met me here, but my appointments would not ad- mit of my returning with him in the gig; and I had sold my horse to pay for printing, and how to get on I did not know, being unwell OR, LORENZO'S JOURNAL. 201 a day or two after; however, a gentleman who had been excited by curiosity to come near twenty miles to hear me at Cartersville, was there brought under concern; and with his servants was now on his return from Petersburgh, where he had been to purchase a coach to accommodate his family tb meetings. He hearing of this ap- pointment, delayed on his journey twenty-four hours, and then in his coach carried me home to Cumberland. 26th. I have a bad cough, which some think denotes my ap- proaching dissolution; I feel unwell out of employ these three days past, though I have had but very few rest days for seventeen months; but have generally preached from two to five times a day, riding from thirty to fifty miles* Sunday, 27th. I spoke at Charity Chapel, peparatory for camp meeting. We had a shout; two found peace; and some ungenerous persons strunk the negroes, who were rejoicing in God, to the shed- ding of blood. Friday, June 1st. Camp meeting commenced near Poplarspring church, in Gloucester county. Brother Mead, who had ordered me to aj^oint it, did not come according to expectation. No preachers were on the ground, and hundreds of people were assem- bled; this, indeed,