An important early American edition of a significant Methodist apologetic work formed of various letters originally written in 1790, but not published until the early 19^th century. These works were critical to the success of Methodism, especially in the United States.

Though growing rapidly, the movement faced repeated accusations of enthusiasm, theological error, disorderly worship, and institutional illegitimacy. The subtitle's reference to "vulgar and frivolous cavils" signals that Ffirth is responding to popular objections rather than just learned theological disputes, making the text accessible to a general readership and useful for circuit riders and lay defenders of the faith.

In many ways, Ffirth’s work was perfectly suited to give to those newly converted to Methodism from other churches. Ffirth himself had been an active Quaker before joining the Methodists. The letters are his responses to concerns that he is joining in with religious enthusiasts or, worse, heretics. He shows the concerns to be more fear-mongering than born out in reality, often brought on by those concerned about the numbers of people leaving established churches to join the Methodist movement. It was the perfect preparative for the family and friend accusations and concerns that would be directed to American Methodists who left established churches after an experience at a camp-meeting or a Methodist revival service.

Ffirth, John. Truth Vindicated; Or, a Scriptural Essay, wherein the Vulgar and Frivolous Cavils, Commonly Urged against the Methodist Episcopal Church, are Chiefly Considered in a Letter to a Friend. Second Edition, Revised. New York. Daniel Hitt for the Methodist Connection in the United States. 1810. 184pp.

A very handsome pocket-sized volume in full calf, light split at front hinge as shown, some light staining and moderately rubbed. Handsome.