Diary of the
Rev. Peter Haskew
1838-1843

Continued from page 1

time. Took up a collection and only got five dollars and twenty-five cents. Stayed until Tuesday morning and then left. Apalachicola is a hard place, but has been badly attended to this year. There has been, only by me, some twenty-nine sermons preached. When I first went there, they turned out tolerably well, but after moving the place of appointment from the Mansion House they never attended so since. Having no place to worship in, it is rather hard to preach to people who will not attend to preaching, or prepare a house. I have left the place: I know not that I ever shall see it again."

November 20. "I have studied but little this day, and preached but little tonight. I know that I have progressed any in the holy life today."

November 21. "Thursday has come and gone. I seem to be relaxed in my efforts to study. going away seems to dampen all my efforts. But I do not intend to let go my efforts

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in striving to do good as long as here. But now, that I have got to go, if the Lord will, I am glad, and, when I was about to return to St. Joseph after the Camp Meeting at Marianna, I felt that it was probable I might before I left this, but there are but three days now left and there is no probability, neither has there been that I know of. I have labored here this year, but what success it must show hereafter, if it ever shows."

November 22. "Studied some this morning, but after dinner left for strolling and distributing tracts,"

November 23. "This day I have studied but little. Have gone about some to visit the people for the last time. Borne I have tried to pray with and some I did not."

November 25. "This day closes my labors in St. Joseph, and by the grace of the Lord, I think if I live, I will try and do better. O Lord pardon my faults if I have not been able

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to bring out of the treasury things, both new and old,"

Dec. 2. "Some days have passed away since I last wrote, I left St, Joseph the 25th, of last month, I left rather in a hurry. I obtained all my quarterage and traveling expenses. The times were hard. I left but two Stewards of the Station, and but 14 members on the Class paper (of whites) -the colored. 65, It is a hard place for me to labor in and so is Apalachicola, These places will all be made missions of, I suppose, I left rather glad. to go, but I suppose I should pity the man who has to labor here the ensuing Conference,

I came by the way of the railroad, The first day I reached Nauls. Here I stayed all night - the night of the 25th of Nov-ember, I made not myself known, and. consequently we had no grace, nor prayers night nor morning, The next day I traveled quite a lonely road, but reached. Brother Wilson's at Marianna. Stayed all night, got my horse shod and went about and. Saw

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the people a little. The next night tarried at Brother Bush's, Rode on Thursday -this was a rainy day - reached Wadford's, a member of our church.

Friday was my fast day, but having a cold thought it most prudent not to fast. Reached Ard's on the north prong of the Choctawhatchee. There was a bustle among the children, and a sort of anyhow living, but the people were kind to me, The man would not charge me, next morning, for anything. The next day, being Saturday, I reached Kayberry's, in the neighborhood of Louisville in Barbour county. This is a nice family, very free, They live nice here, I stayed (in a measure) until this morning, having an appointment given for me at Louisville. I tried to preach, etc., Brother Strider was present. Some seven or eight members joined, viz,, white and colored. Here we had shouting. I am now at Brother Cooks, on the road from Louisville to Monticello. O how kind is the providence of God. After laboring and

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staying in the Floridas one Conference year, I am now in health and strength, and. on my way to my Father's. To the Lord be all the praise."

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Haskew Diary

1839

Mr. Haskew had left St. Joe and returned to another charge on the Florida line and he writes under dates of:

Dec 2, "Some days have passed away since I last wrote, I left St. Joseph the 25th of last month, I left rather in a hurry. I obtained all my quarterage and traveling expenses. The times are hard. I left but two stewards of the station and but fourteen members on the class paper (of whites) the colored have sixty-five, It is a hard place for me to labor in, so is Apalachicola. Those places will all be made missions of, I suppose. I left rather glad-- suppose I should pity the man who has to labor then the ensuing Conference, I came by the way of the railroad, The first day I reached Nauls. Here I stayed all night the night of the 25th of November. I made not myself known and consequently we had no grace nor prayers night or morning, The next day I traveled quite

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a lonely road but reached Brother Wilson's at Marianna, stayed all night, got my horse shod and went about and saw the people a little. The next night tarried at Brother Bushes. Rode on Thursday. This was a rainy day. Reached Wadfords, a member of our church. Friday was my regular fast day but having a cold thought it most prudent not to fast, Reached Ards on the north prong of the Choctawatchee. Here was a bustle among the children and a sort of any how living, but the people were kind to me, The man you would not charge me next morning for anything, The next day being Saturday I preached. Mayberry town ________? neighborhood of Louisville, Barborn County.

This is a nice family, very free, they live nice, Here I stayed (in a measure) until this morning, having an appointment given out for me at Louisville, I tried to preach Brother Strider was present. Some seven or eight members joined - white and colored. Here we had shouting. I am now at Brother Cook's, on the road from Louisville to Monticello. Oh how kind is the Providence of God. After laboring and staying in the Floridays on Conference year. I am now in tolerable health and strength on my way to my fathers. To the Lord be all the praise." (Note: Dec 2 repeated in original).

Jan. 25. "I am in Clairborne at Brother James Woolworth's, 1840

From the above there is a chasm of more than a month and half. Oh when shall I have energy to write when I ought? In this chasm I continued on my way to my father's, arriving there in a few days from Brother Cooks, I stayed at _____________ the next night. Left the next morning about 10 of the clock, rode by Brother Fellers about 18 miles, (Here follows 1 leaf - 2 pages badly torn and no connected story can be gotten from them. Names of persons and places appear and the writer is evidently continuing his story of travel) We rode on until the evening near sunset it commenced raining. Night overtook us, we found our journey's end, Being strangers and the country all strange , just after night we concluded. As we rode up to a home if the occupants would let us we

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we would stay. It was dark and raining. We hallood ( they said hello or something to that effect) and we soon heard a woman's voice in answer, of whom we inquired if we could stay. She said she did not know whether we could or not telling us her husband was not at home. I told her we were strangers and wished to get out of the rain. She did not know but she reckoned we could. Perhaps her husband (would when he?) came home. There seemed a tremor (illegible) and we did not insist (here the lower half of the leaf is badly torn and therefore the reading is disconnected, but they stayed out all night evidently. ")

February 8. "I am now in Claiborne. I arrived here to attend our first quarterly meeting for this circuit this morning Just before 12 of the clock In company with brothers Pilley and Stockton. We stayed at Mr. Emmons. He was not at home but we found a very kind friend of his wife, she being a member of our church. We also found an elderly man who is staying there yet not a member of the family, very kind and benevolent in

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his expressions. Though so attentive to us as strangers yet I learn he is a great sinner. Lord may not his heart be reached by thy holy word. Through the inclemency of the weather we have, as yet, had no meeting today for the people and in our quarterly meeting we had only three persons, the P. E., myself and Brother James C. Woolworth."

February 12. "Now at Father Hendrix's I endeavored to preach at Rehoboth yesterday from Math. 6: 33, and at night again in the Academy from Luke 13:5. Our first Q.M. for (quarterly meeting) for this year closed last Sunday evening in Clairborn. We had one shout, and seven mourners. I did begin to feel like the Lord would revive his work."

February 17. "Now at Mellard Pipkins. This day like many of the rest of my days are passed and gone but little improved. Read this morning five chapters in the Q.T. Walked down to Brother Heart's. Prepared a new class paper for the colored members. There are about seventy in Soriety. Stayed until after dinner, then prayed with the brother and

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his. Came back to Brother Pilleys, stayed a little with his wife and family, prayed with them, then back to Brother Pipkins. Had my horse to doctor some. He has what is termed the scratches (I suppose) The days that are passed and gone should all have noted, but such is my in difference, that I have not written as I ought. I err greatly from want of system."

Feb. 20. "Now at Brother Stotts. Yesterday I tried to preach for the first time, at Moblies, or at Bethany. I had some liberty, but fear that I had not the power I ought to have. I am now five years old in the itinerary and it does seem to me that I do not possess that power I really ought. Another place (Moblies) the reformers found admission into one of our societies, or preaching places by one member being turned out for drinking. And so we have as I learn from Brother Stott has been greatly bemoaned and belittled in the eyes of the world. Lord save me from envying or hating the reformers but to

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love as should at least that the gospel be not blamed."

February 21. "Now at Brother Burkets. I endeavored this day to fast and pray that the Lord would not curse me for want of holiness. Last night I felt the bitterness of the flesh, and this morning I was determined to fast and pray. When breakfast was ready I said to the brother where I stayed, I would not take any but would get my horse. All seemed to be shocked and not one eat down to the table while I was getting my horse, rubbing and saddling. Then went to the home. I do not think one of the plates had been moved which were on the table. The Brother got his animal and rode with me. He took nothing at that time that I saw, and whether the family did after I left or not. I cannot now tell but after I was all alone on the road I felt much revived in my poor soul and I hope from my present feelings of soul the Lord will have mercy upon me. This day I met with

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a sudden difficulty. The class leader had scratched his name off from the list. I called for all the others and left him out. They had differed on building a meeting house, and consequently a fuss was the issue. I fear there will not be peace among them as there should be."

February 23. "Now at Brother Simons. The fuss above, or something, I hardly know what threw me rather into a broil for when I came to this meeting house yesterday, I felt more like scolding than otherwise and continued so until the time of Brother Callaway's prayer who closed for me. But after a while I felt some better. I know not, when I shall be as I ought, but never until I am possessed and influenced alone by the grace of God."

February 24. 1 am now at Brother N. Mixon's who is in a little trouble because of some difficulties in the church. Any one may get into trials but few know how to get out. I endeavored to preach yesterday from

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Mark 1st. 15th. I saw at one time there was a little panic upon some of the congregation for one of the Negroes broke into a low outcry. It seemed to run through, a little, but how some people do strive to shake off their convictions in a congregations"

February 26. "Now at Judge Burns. I came in this evening and did not tell the people who I was but since I have on and old sort of cut coat I suppose by this time they have judged. I came to this place expecting to find an appointment for preaching but I am informed there is none. What a miserable fix this Circuit was in, on account of the appointments. They not generally known. I hope it will be so no more. I saw a fiddle when I came tonight but it was moved, and after a while a young man bore it off rather shyly. I suppose he felt rather shy. 0 that the Lord would convict him that he is constantly in his presence and should not dare to sin. My time for writing some days past has been

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rather aim, and now above all a holy heart I so much need."

February 27. "Now at Thomas Burns. I stayed last night at Judge Burns, supposing the appointment was there. Brother McShan made the same mistake that I have. I stayed at the Judges night. We had no grace, we had no prayers in the family. I suppose they are to eating without, and going to bed without reading the word of God or praying. I talked as little as possible at the table in order to give every one as great an opportunity as possible to think, which I hope they did. I retired after breakfast to my room, prayed and read awhile. Felt no convictions for being so silent and really was at one time, that I told them not my business, and for what I had come as I learned afterward the mistake. I stayed until after ten, I then made inquiry of the lady what I had to pay. She told me nothing. I thanked her, and we came off to meeting together. Her feelings were agitated some way I know not how. I endeavored to speak

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from Mathew5-8 to about twenty persons, little and big. May the Lord have mercy on preacher and people,"

February 28. "Now at Brother Taylors who was in the reform church at Greenville in Butler County, who talks of joining again our side. I left Thomas Burns this morning just before breakfast, as it was my fast day. I did not stay for eating. My horse seemed dull and ailing therefore I did not reach my appointment in due time but none had left, but from the move I suppose all wore about to leave, but upon my coming up all went back into the house. I endeavored to preach to them but felt much shorn of strength for I need to be ahead and on my guard always for when I am behind, and lost on the way. I am troubled in my mind and lose my meditations and that deprives me of my powers. I feel much cast down and depressed, my difference is so great that I feel miserable on account of it, and tonight while Brother Taylor was relating the tale of a certain murder done in this vicinity and close by this yard said

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to be the stage-driver and of a fellows being hung in Mobile for it. I felt miserable."

March 1. "Now at Brother Drews. I left Brother Taylors yesterday morning. The puniness of my horse caused me to be a little late but when I got there I found Rev. Mr. Schoble up in the pulpit preaching and from what I heard he preached an excellent sermon. When he was done I endeavored to close. Went to Brother Davis' to dinner. Left at three of the clock. I am now endeavoring to rise at 5 A.M. At night I endeavored to meet the class after preaching. Here we had troubles and trials. They are at outs, odds and ends. I wish I could say ends, but I fear there is no ending so easily, these church trials."

March 3. "Now at Brother Rhodes. I endeavored to preach last Sabbath, which was the first day of the present month. I was somewhat embarrassed because Brother Burpo was there whom I suppose was pretty considerable preacher therefore I was little freighted.

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Afterwards held class meetings In reading our class-book I found all were not on, that more were in the home, I have learned that a certain one tried to set their names down by memory and consequently all were not put down as memory did not serve so well. It has made some difficulty. I hope it may not be serious. I find class meetings have been neglected pretty much for the last years of this circuit, And why is it so when the preacher gets such a great name. I had but six persons out to meeting today, though the day was rainy, I am to have a night meeting tomorrow eve, I hope to meet the appointment and that the people may come out,"

March 5. "Now at Brother Rhodes, here I have been ever since Tuesday, Last night I endeavored to preach from Isiah. 55 - 6. I overshot the whole affair, so far that I never got the people's feelings at all. I seem to be ashamed and I still seem to regret the thing. I will try and do better next time if the Lord will. I went over to Bowdin's,

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Brother Rhodes's son-in-law and took dinner. As he had to go and see to some fire, I left, and no prayer. I expect, this evening, to go to Brother Burpo's."

March 6. "Now at Brother Burpo's. I came here almost reluctantly, but I am glad I have come. I enjoy myself so much better than I should some places, but not with standing all, this where I can do the most good there I like to be the best and I suppose that is among the poor. This has been my fast day, but whether or not I am any nearer to the Lord is not known by me."

March 9. "I am now at Mr. Forchend's, his name being put the plan of the Circuit. I felt that I should call on him. I had meeting in Claiborne yesterday. I endeavored to preach three times, and joined in three whites and one black. The people seemed to take an interest. The congregation rather increased than otherwise."

March 10. "Now at Theophilus W. Williams. I have today endeavored to preach from Luke 18, 1-8."

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March 11. "Now at Brother Joseph Locks, he seems to be a stern doctor and I fear I have said more than is really profitable around the fireside. I endeavored today to preach for the first time at Lock's meeting house."

March 13. "Now at Nowlin's. We have our little place f or preaching some half-mile from this. It used to be in Mr. Nowlin's house. I hope we shall do better."

March 18. "Now at Ellis'. I came to the meeting house today but met but one person whom I promised to come home with the next time I came. From Nowlins I journeyed the same evening to Brother George Watsons, where I stayed all night, found his wife sick, and inclined to _______, She is not in the Church. Preached next day to a few, a part, of which I had never seen. That evening took dinner with Brother Betts. He is upon the outside rather (I think). I fear the children are not reared up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, or some should not have on so much jewelry.

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Took dinner and. prayed with them and left. Stayed all night at the pine orchard with a Baptist brother. He would not charge me. I left his house for Asbury Chapel, which was reported to be some twelve miles off. Just as I arrived in the neighbor hood I got lost. It bewildered my brain a little. At last I found the house. Preached from Proverbs 28-13. Rode out in the vicinity Monday and found one sister who was determined to have her name taken off the class paper. This she said she was determined on. Found some others and desired. them, as they had opportunity to attend class. That evening rode down to Brother James Wright's near Concord. Preached. the next day from Hebrew 12:1."

March 19. "Now at Brother John Pipkins. Came here from meeting. Rode some twelve miles this morning. Had considerable rain on the way. The wind blew likewise some but I kept on and when I reached the church found one brother and son at the church. Made ready and intended to preach whether any

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more came or not, but understanding that it was very probable that others would be there waited some minutes after the time and commenced. Had about a dozen when done. One brother came in at the close of preaching, but time enough for class meeting."

March 20. "Now at Brother Moblies. I had some enjoyment this day in preaching. My remarks were based on Gen. 4:7."

March 23. "Now at Brother Hart's, leader of Sardis Society. With Brother Wright yesterday I rode from Brother Dickenson's some ten miles through the rain where I came to the meeting house. Found one male member. Waited awhile for to see, none others came, I asked the young brother to come near the pulpit. He did so and we commenced meeting, As we were closing the first hymn, two colored members came in, This made the company to three, I endeavored to preach, and gave out a two days meeting. I am somewhat encouraged."

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March 27 "At Thomas Byones. This day I endeavored to preach from John 5:6 endeavored to gather together all the old and as many of the new members as possible. Received three old and three new ones."

March 28 "Now at Mr. Moores thither came this evening from an appointment near Stockton where I tried. to preach and raise a Society but missed. I don't know where or when I felt more disappointed. I suppose from what I had learned that some two or three would join that when I tried and found they did not, I had bad feelings. I hardly could look at a single person, but the man with whom I stayed got his beast and came a part of the way as a pilot. I hardly could look at him."

March 29 "Now at Richard Davis'. Last night I stayed at Mr. Moores where I was finally located and invited to return, but told him I suppose I should go to Father Davis', but I am here after trying to preach to the people in the neighborhood, from Phil.3-8."

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March 31. "Now at Brother Drew's. This I came yesterday evening from Brother Richard Davis.'"

April 2. "Now at Brother Alexander Henderson's. Brother Henderson is much difficultied. Another member and he had troubles in church. The case was tried, the other forgiven upon a confession. They are in the same church and Brother H. cannot believe in him, from nothing new but from feelings and things known before the trial. I know not what to do in the case. I hope that time will bring all to bear and we shall see all things clearly."

April 3. ""Now at Brother Rhodes. I left Brother Burpo's this morning. To his I came yesterday evening. Called, on my way to his place, at Sister Parker's. Her daughter being present we tried to claim the promise and so had secret prayer. Tomorrow we are to have a two-days meeting at Claiborne."

April 4. "I expect to start in a few minutes or Claiborne and I do want to preach to people."

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April 7. "I expect to start in a few minutes for Claiborne and from the rain was interrupted or stayed from meeting on Saturday until night. Tried to preach at night. Prayer meeting in the morning. Brother Burpo preached at eleven. I endeavored to preach at 3 P.M. to the blacks. Appointed two class-leaders among them and again at night I tried to preach, but few were out at night on account of the rain. Monday rode around the high waters to get near my Tuesday's place. Today I have endeavored to preach to a few, and to hold a class-meeting with four. And now the sun is setting."

April 10. "Now at Mr. Nowlins. I have endeavored to preach at McWilliams. Here we had a few and a few in class, being four - two belonging to our church and one a Baptist and one desirous to belong to the church but said she would put it off. I fear she will put if off too long. Then to Locks: here we had a pretty little congregation, none joined. We had class but the day

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being rainy, those who went out soon came in but I endeavored to continue until I finished the class. At Rehoboth I just simply talked to the brethren and then to sisters, taking there, as above, en masse, and it seemed to please the leader, thought it was a good way. Today, meeting near this (place) and class with all who went and was at preaching."

April 13. "Now at Brother Sermon's. This day being Monday, and convenient, and some of the members being deficient, I stirred out to see some of the defaulters. Then I was last in the vicinity of' Asbury Chapel one sister was determined to have her name taken off the Class-book. I presented her this time to the members. They came to the conclusion to try and keep her a little while longer, still feeling willing that she should have her request given her if she continued to desire it. I saw her again today; she became willing the church should do as they pleased. I hope now she will stay. I saw some four others, they all are still desirous

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to continue faithful and remain with us and be there as often as possible."

April 17. "Now at Brother Brown's. To this I came last night quite late - after supper. Having been invited to visit Sister Martin, I arrived there after sunset. Was met at the gate by her husband who informed me he was so full that he could not entertain. Company having come in he was too much crowded. I felt a little (bad) he said he was sorry he could not receive me. I told him not to mind. He directed me to a neighbor's about a half mile distant. As I was a stranger -he living on the public road I concluded to hunt out a place where I had some knowledge of the people, though they were reformers. Thus I have found a kind and hospitable father and mother. I have gotten the members at Long Creek Society all to settle down together and willing to be members in the same house."

April 20. "Now at sister Hemphill's, who lost her husband sometime last year. She is now in

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her widowed state. O that she would take up her family prayers. Here I came last evening from preaching. We had tolerable congregations and some good feeling. One or two shouts among the colored, directly after the whites had their meeting. No person joined society. I felt a good degree of heart burning in love feast and in preaching. There seemed to be some others who felt likewise. I hope the Lord will help us."

April 24. "Now at Thomas Burns. From the last date I come to Brother Pilley's on Monday evening where I stayed all night. He went the following day with me to meeting at union. I endeavored to preach from Eph. 2-10. I was a kind of tangled up mess and this for want of thought, prayer and meditation, but the people seemed to feel and we had a very good class meeting. Then to David Pepkins where we dined, then we had prayers and left for Sampeys on the road to Stockton. Here, on Wednesday, we had meeting, but

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none seemed to feel enough. Then to widow Downeys. Here I stopped to stay all night. Now I have never told them who I am, neither prayed with them nor asked them if they would have prayers, but only blest the food and paid my bill. From thence to this place last night and stayed all night and tried to preach. There was some feeling among the people. One joined by letter, Artemas Bigelow. And now I want to go to U. Taylor's."

April 25. "Now at Col. Moore's. I came here this evening from Mr. Waughan's who professes to be in favor with the Baptist brethren. I hope for the better. I endeavored to preach there today. Last night I stayed at Maj. Taylors."

April 26. "Now at Brother Henry Davis'. To this I came from meeting at Holly Creek. I endeavored to preach but made an almost flash, I perhaps got out something that the people believed. I hope the people were not entirely disappointed, but did learn something."

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April 29. "Now at Brother Downey's. This day I endeavored to preach at Bethel. Whether or not I did anything for the advancement of the cause of Christ I know not, but one thing I know and that is I felt and some others felt. Last night I preached at Brother Drews. I had some shout. I hope I did some good, I felt. The night before I was at Richard Davis’’."

May 4. "I am now at Brother T. Williams. Brother McShan is here and is sick. He has been at this place some two weeks. He is now unable to sit up but little at a time. I hope he will recover."

May 7. "Now at Mr. Emmon's. To this I cane this evening from Brother Nathan Hendrix. I endeavored to preach Henry Hendrix funeral today. This was an old man before he died lived in the Lutheran Church and there died. I had some Liberty; joined in some two members and baptized one child, and read discipline. I understood today that a man near Monroeville said if he knew that I would preach as I had done he would prepare himself some rotten eggs, Brother McShan is yet sick."

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May 10. "Now at Brother Nathan Mixon' s. Few have been the scenes through which I have passed since I have written. came to Mr. Nowlins and endeavored to preach. Poor preach. The next evening I came to Brother Morris'. Here I found a pamphlet set out by the reform brethren derogatory to us and at this time, containing falsehoods, which ought not to be. I endeavored to preach at Center as usual and felt as usual. Yesterday at Asbury Chapel near this place. Here is the worst behaved youngsters that I find anywhere on the Circuit. Last evening at Brother Owens here I had a small congregation but some better behavior. I think I have discovered my error; where the people are unstable I should preach short and let them go and this I intend to do hereafter."

(There are, evidently, several missing leaves, at this point, in the diary as the next entry is a fragment and followed by the date of July 17.

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....was in the habit and would frequently call at the Mansion House for brandy and peppermint for he had a pain in his stomach. Does not this account for his backwardness to attend to his duties as a member in the church. This I knew nothing of when I was there (if it be true). I am now at Thomas Byrons. Thither I came today for the widow Downeys, odd of thirty miles. Read this morning five chapters Amos (in the Bible) and more than one hundred pages in the 22nd. Vol. of the history of the M.E. Church by Nathan Bangs. This is a good work and just such a thing the church needed, and also reviewed some rules in the English grammar."

July 17. "Now at a gentleman's by the name of Stapleton, a connection of William and Job Stapleton. I endeavored to preach. I then opened the door for members but none joined.

I know not if sometimes I do not do wrong in opening the door at unreasonable times. After dining I saw my horse was caught so I started with my feelings bad and so

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they are yet. I concluded if the rain commenced again as it had rained some, I would try and get in at this place and so I did. I mentioned prayer just before I retired but the gentleman said his family were laid down. I then said perhaps we could then in the morning. He said perhaps we could then in the morning. He said it must be, then or have it, at least early, as they had cows to attend to. I fear they did not want it, for it was known even at supper table who I was."

July 20. "Now at Brother R. Davis'. To this I came yesterday evening from preaching at Stapletons. No visible effect upon the congregation. We then had class meeting. Some good feeling in class; some four or five mourners. Oh, that these youngsters would get religion. Among them is a young lady by the name of Stapleton, who is opposed by her friends. If she got religion might be able to stand the trouble. I left Stapletons the next morning where I

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stayed on the night of the 17th. as I found no praying night nor morning. Then to the Stockton appointment, but few were out. There was some sickness in the place, or neighborhood. To Maj. Taylors for my dinner. Here there were two sick. I was not even asked in to see any of them, though I did go in to see the Major's wife a little while. Stepped out of the room and came off-no prayer. I came on and the next night I stayed at Edward Nalleys."

July 22. "Now at Brother Drew's. Here I came after preaching at a new school house below Little River from which place I went home with Col. Sanders, who seems to be a very open man. I hope one day or another he may become a pious Christian. Today I must go to Bethel. Lord Help. For this place I have some fear there has been I suppose, too much evil speaking and I have determined to read Mr. Wesley's sermon on evil speaking."

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July 23. "Now at Brother Rhodes. I read yesterday a sermon of Wesley’’s on evil speaking at Bethel. I fear it had a bad effect but hope for the best. They have, from what I have been informed, been guilty of such things. I came last evening to Brother Burpos. Was sent for to Brother Parker's just before I got my supper. I ate and set out with a Negro boy. I arrived there in a short time, it being only two miles. Found Brother R. Parker and two of his sons quite sick. We soon had prayers and as there was company enough, lay down and thus rested until day. Prayed with him and family again in the morning. The rain was so incessant that I did not get off in time for the appointment but went to the meeting house, it being near one P.M. when my train was to have been at eleven A.M. But here I am at Brother Rhodes, drowsy, dull, and sleepy enough."

July 27. "Now at Mr. McLanes. To this I came last Saturday evening and now it is Monday evening. I left Brother Rhodes Friday morning

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to Mt. Pleasant where I found a pretty considerable company for the meeting. Joined in three members more to the number. Then on to Williams on Saturday. We had (for Brother McShan met me here) the best, or largest company we have ever before had, I tried to preach. The people felt some, then called for mourners. Got one, held class meeting. Then the same even had prayers at Brother Williams after we dined just before we left. I came to this place in Claiborne with Brother McShan and Mr. Humphries. Class meeting at nine of the clock A. M. Brother McShan preached at 11 A.M, I tried at three P.M. to the blacks and then at night again. This day we have walked about some to see old sister Marshal, then to see old Sister Waggoner, then to sister Roache, then to Brother Wrights, these two last are said to be Presbyterians. Then to sister Thompsons, a Baptist sister, then to Brother McCorkles after calling at sister Rolands a few minutes on our way. After this we

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left for Mr. Hightowers, here we stayed a few minutes, then to sister Ellisons. From this I came and took my horse to the shop and. had him shod. And now what good have I done."

July 28. "Now at S- - - - - - -. To this I came a few minutes ago, a mile and half. We had. meeting last evening in the church, viz., prayer meeting. The people turned out well. There is a certain something that seems to press my mind. - if the preachers were holy -felt their acceptance with the Lord then should we have great revivals. I have just had a conversation with a lady who sent her daughter to a Presbyterian in Tuscaloosa, to go to school, and. behold. when she brought her home she knew nothing scarce but dancing. This ought not so to be."

July 29. "Now at Stephen Steels. So far in the day I have done but little, and feel quite dull and. sleepy. That am I to accomplish in this dull mood."

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July 30. "Now at Nathan Mixons . Brother McShan is with me. We came from Claiborne to this place. Yesterday evening we had meeting there. Today meeting at Rehoboth. We bad a larger congregation today than we have had for some time or perhaps ever before. None joined, no outcry."

July 31. "Last night, at Monroeville, Brother McShan preached. A considerable company was present. I hope more turn out the next time. Today I have endeavored to preach near this, at a place called Nowlins. We bad but few now at Mr. Nowlins."

August 4. "We left Nowlins Friday evening. Stayed that night at Mr. Greens, an Universalist. We had no contradictory dispute. Went the night to Center. I tried to preach. Mr. Green wept, otherwise nothing special. But few people turned out, owing to other matters in the neighborhood. That evening we came to Brother Betts. Here we got dinner, and I left contrary to my usual course by not praying with the family, but said to

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them, I should like Brother McShan to pray with them. That night I reached Russel Graces. This Brother, I Lear is not hearty in the cause. The Reform Preacher calls upon him and I suppose he is rather leaning that way.

From this to Asbury Chapel. Here I had a tolerable congregation. As I learned there were two other appointments not very far off. Here again, I had to reprove a young man for misconduct. This I have had to do almost every time I have been there. Then, in the evening I went over some eight miles and attended an appointment on the Circuit above (Cedar Creek). The people came out. Then on Monday back to this place (James Wright). I am now near Concord, and I expect to have meeting"

August 8. "I read at Concord Wesley's sermon on Evil Speaking. I reckon they all heard it. The next day to Smiths meeting house, some fifteen miles. Had a fine out at meeting.

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Then to Brother Moores for dinner. From this to Brother Jesse Wright's some 14 miles more. Here I tarried all night. We left the next morning for here. I fell in company with Brother McShan, then to Brother Lampeys for dinner some 12 miles. Ate at 12 of' the clock. Started for the Rev. T. Burpo's, but late in the evening lost the way. Wandered in the woods, fell down into the fork of a creek about deep dusk. The banks of the creek were impassable. We then thought we thought we would try and head the smallest one, and so started. My horse tiring we halted and rested awhile. The moon shining we endeavored to keep the dividing ridge between the two creeks. At length giving my horse the rein he soon brought us upon the way and so kept it, that he brought back to the last house we passed in the evening. We arrived here about ten o'clock. We were permitted to stay. They soon had supper. We ate, had prayers and went to bed. Arose next morning by light and were soon on our road by sun-up, after prayers. Reached this place between

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8 and. 9 A. M. and after nine commenced prayer meeting or between 9 and 10, I ought to have said. We continued it with one hour intermission until three in the afternoon, at the close of which several joined in prayer for a deeper work of' grace. Now we are looking for the Elder. I am now at Brother T. Ellisons.

August 11 "Am now at Mr. Peoples on the stage-road to Stockton. To this I came today between one and two of the clock from Bethel where we had our third quarterly meeting for this Bellville Circuit. The Elder reached there in due time for services on Saturday. I tried to preach at eleven A. M. The Elder following. It was truly a good sermon. I felt strengthened. I hope he will preach so when I come again. He called up the mourners, several came to the altar and seemed to be deeply effected. This, I was surprised at knowing the difficulties they have in their church there. And so the mourners continued but not so many on Sunday. We continued the meeting until Monday.

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There were more mourners on Monday seemed to be deeper effected. I hated to break up the meeting but it was thought advisable. So we broke up near about twelve of the clock."

August 14 "Now at Thomas Byons. I have not written since I was at Peoples. On the twelfth we had meeting at Brother Lampeys. We had a good time. His little son joined the church by name of James Lewis. He is, I suppose, about eight or nine years old, and Negroes, and while I was saying to some two little girls that the Lord knew that they had not joined, but he knew that the little boy had joined. Mary A.M. Peoples came forward and wished her name put down. She is the daughter of Baptist parents and her brother and half-brother is a Baptist preacher. Her father was present when she joined, but I think he did not see her. I went to the old man's house for dinner, and while the old lady was setting the table, I told her that Mary had joined the church. How she took it or bore it I do not know. I fear for the girl

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From thence I started for the widow Downings. By rain I was caused to call into a house where I delivered some tracts and the old lady said she would try and get out to preaching. The next time I came along I arrived at the widows. That evening we had prayers at night but none in the morning. Here I left two tracts. The next day I got to Mr. Halls. He seemed to be sorta offish. He was not present when we commenced prayer but after a while he came in. This morning we had no prayers. He and some of' the family came to meeting. Here we had preaching. The company was thin, but hope the next time it will be better. I think now of going to Judge Byrons."

August 17. "Now at Henry Davis'. To this I came yesterday evening after making a miserable out at eleven o'clock to the whites and then endeavoring to preach to the colored. Among the whites nothing was done and I fear worse than nothing. At one of' the clock I preached to the colored friends, at the close of which was baptism by pouring, Increased

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three (new members) in the number. I stayed at Judge Byrons Friday night but I think I will not again be so caught for it was too far away to attend to my appointments well. Saturday I arrived at this place but was some hours too late but none had left. Lord help me to do better."

August 19. "Now at Brother Burpo's. To this from Bethel where I tried to preach today to a small congregation. made some effort: three mourners none joined the church. Preached the day before to a small company in a school house where there is a small school. I hope I shall be able to do some good with the children if I cannot with the parents. I fear there are persons who do not like to go and hear the Methodists because they are too pointed and plain, preaching immediately at them, and on this account hang off and stay away."

August 20. "Now at Brother Rhodes. Last night I stayed at Brother Burpo's. What a family this is, what quiet, what place, what in the family. I fear the Bethel Society are not all trying to do as well as they might, and

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perhaps should. Today I endeavored to preach at Brother Rhodes meeting house. We had two different kinds of Baptists there: missionary and anti-missionary, and I endeavored to preach from Math. 12-33. I suppose it was rough sailing to some, other some got along well enough perhaps."

August 25. "Now at Brother Locks. To this I came from Brother Williams, where I went yesterday morning wishing to obtain a change of horses that I might go and see my parents whom I learned from a letter from my brother were both very sick. I wish I had got my own shod and went on from Brother Rhodes. Friday was fast-day, I had to ride some fourteen or eighteen miles, and then the fatigue of preaching and the weather warm I became thirsty and drank a little too much water which- I think done me an injury. No one joined at Brother Locks on Friday: none at Brother Williams on Saturday, but on Sunday two in Claiborne. Times are sickly - some die."

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September 13. "'However resolute I may feel determined at all times when writing I never will let this thing slip, but will at all times try and put down what passes. But at this much has passed, and gone between the dates and the one preceding From Brother Locks I continued upon the circuit. Nothing special occurred from the protracted meeting at Concord on Sunday after it commenced on Saturday before. I left for my fathers at whose I had landed the second day in the evening. I found him quite feeble - had been quite low - recovered some, and that day had perhaps exercised himself too much and was fevered. He arose from his palate (pallet) on which he was lying and was standing, tottering almost with old age. Was much affected when I went in. He soon lay down again but still could scarcely talk. I sat down. He came too, so he soon began to talk freely. I stayed some five days and left with miserable feelings. Leaving so many of Pounceys and Smith's families sick, being

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Brother-in-law. I came back to my circuit and I am now at Brother Richard Davis', yesterday, having to perform the ordinance of baptism. I made some remarks, and, as I learn, the Baptist preachers have said much and hard things of' us. I do expect we shall come together in controversy -I said to them yesterday would they come out today I would give them some views on the doctrine of infant church member-ship and baptism, but few came out and but one Baptist."

September 16. "Now at Brother Thomas Burpos's. This day I endeavored to preach with a man-fearing spirit about me. I think though, I heard with my own ears some toleration of the discourse, yet I fear I have lost on my own part. I took dinner yesterday with a Mr. Staples, who believes that from the resurrection all will be happy alike. There is a very sick child at this place. Brother Parker has lost his wife and five children and this one is very low."

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September 17. "Now at Brother Rhodes. To this I came from the meeting house where I had an appointment, where we had two women and three men and one child or small boy, but at this I am not discouraged for we had two mourners. Brother Parker's son died this morning just after eight o’clock. He has now lost six children and his wife and he has been very low. His two twins are all of his white family which are left."

September 23. " Now at Mr. Emmons. I stayed last night at Claiborne some more than eleven miles from my appointment today. This morning was a dropping day all the way. We had but few out. People are sickly in the country."

September 24. "Now at Mr. Nowlin's. To this I came this morning through the rain, though the rain was not hard. Last night, at Mr. Emmons, we had our prayers (and) this morning just as if I had been at a Methodist house, and truly his wife is a Methodist. I went to the meeting

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house today but none came, 1 was somewhat comforted in my secret prayers while I was there. A Soul fully satisfied I truly want, Lord have mercy upon me and help me,"

September 28. " Now at Gehn Mixons, Our meeting commenced at this, day before yesterday. I say at this, because the meeting house is close by. Brother McShan and myself commenced the meeting Saturday. Few attended but the meeting was a good one. Yesterday there was but little feeling in love feast or at the sacrament or in the evening and now this morning I do not feel so pleasant as I wish. I feel bad. What can be the matter? I cannot tell. I fear I wish to excel the reformers who have lately preached at this place. What an ungodly rivalry - let the Lord's will be done. Save, Lord, my poor soul -and help me to love the People."

September 30. " I am now again at Gehn Mixon's. Yesterday passed off rather without improvement. I went to see Brother O. E. Simpkins. Talked

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about Sabbath breaking. He is a very kind old man. Last night heard a Brother McKee preach. This was good. I hope the people were thoroughly warmed, and now Lord I want to love thee with all my hearts etc. for thou hast thus commanded,"

October 28, "Now at James Burkett’s. Many things have occurred since writing the last date and my neglect is manifest. I have been hindered by frustrations, being off my work for some time, (or at times) which was not brooked, as it should be, I am such a failable man that it is a wonder I do not lose my religion. On the first of October 1 was at a Camp meeting neat Allenton, in Wilcox. We had a tolerable meeting, but the Elder, (E. Hearn), was not able to preach. Here I stayed for four days. On the fifth day I left for my own Circuit. On the 8th of October commenced a four-day meeting in the vicinity of Rev. Pipkins and David Scotts. Here we had some seven con-versions and some eleven additions. From this, on the 12th, I went into the neighborhood of Bellville; the 13th, preached

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Continued

Page Created 5/00 Marvin Schubert Revised: May 30, 2000.