Visit to the Meetings of Ministers and Elders, 1795.--Visit to
Friends in Pennsylvania, New-Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and
Virginia, 1798.
On the 26th of 7th month, 1795, I left home in order to join a
committee of Friends, appointed by the yearly meeting of Ministers and
Elders this year, to visit the quarterly and preparative meetings, and
Friends individually, in those stations, throughout the yearly meeting.
A concern having arisen in that meeting, occasioned by the many obvious
deficiencies and departures amongst us as a people, from the purity and
simplicity of our holy profession, a minute was issued and recommended
to the inferior meetings, setting forth the ground of this concern, and
for the purpose of stirring up and encouraging Friends to a diligent
search and labour, that the many hurtful disorders might be removed,
and a right reformation, from those prevailing weaknesses, effectually
take place.
This being the first day of the week, I sat with Friends in their
meeting at Westbury; and although it was a dull time in the forepart,
yet, through the comforting assistance of heavenly help, it was made,
I believe, an edifying season to many minds. I crossed the Sound
that afternoon to New Rochelle, and the next morning met some of the
committee at the house of our friend Hugh Judge. We had an opportunity
with his family, which proved a refreshing season, it being evident
that he, and his wife, joined heartily with the concern. We visited
several other families that day, and had the satisfaction to believe,
that the concern and labour were owned by the Head of the Church, and,
we believe, will be blessed to many.
The next day the quarterly meeting at Purchase began, and through the
several sittings was made, I trust, a profitable season; it ended on
fifth day. The next day we had opportunities with two families, which,
through the fresh extendings of holy help, proved very instructive and
encouraging. After this we set out for Nine Partners, their quarterly
meeting coming in the ensuing week. I reached there on first day
morning, the 2d of 8th month, and attended their meeting, which proved
a heart searching season, it being too manifest that many professors
had suffered their minds to be captivated by a worldly spirit, which
had introduced great death and darkness into our meetings, to the grief
and trouble of the honest-hearted. But help was graciously afforded me
to set forth, in a plain manner, the danger attending such a departure
from the life and power of religion; and to stir up also the lukewarm
from their supineness and ease, and enforce the necessity of a more
full dedication of their hearts, and their all, to the Lord’s service.
The next day we attended the preparative meeting of Ministers and
Elders at the Creek, in which much weakness was apparent. The three
following days we attended the quarterly meeting at Nine Partners; on
the last of which, I was favoured to relieve my mind among them, in
a season of close searching labour, by way of communication. After
this we proceeded towards Easton, to attend the quarterly meeting
there, and to visit the families of Ministers and Elders within the
compass of that meeting, which we performed in about a week. Although
weakness seemed to abound with Friends there, yet we were comforted
in believing, that the visit had a profitable effect, and afforded
encouragement, and a renewal of strength, to the sincere-hearted.
On seventh day, the 15th of 8th month, we rode to East Hoosac, and the
next day attended Friends’ meeting there, which was large, many people
of other societies attending. It proved an open satisfactory time,
and ended under a renewed sense of the merciful extendings of holy
condescending love; for which, I trust, many minds were made humbly
thankful. The afternoon and next morning were passed in visiting the
families of Ministers and Elders; and although things were not all
well among them, yet we had satisfaction and peace in our own minds,
by a faithful discharge of the trust committed to us. The next day we
rode to New Britain, and visited a Friend in the ministry there, he
being the only select member in that meeting. From thence we passed on
to Kline-Kiln, where there was likewise but one member of the select
meeting, an Elder, whom we visited. We then went to Coeman’s Patent,
where there were three select members, to whom we paid a satisfactory
visit, and then proceeded to the city of Hudson. The evening after our
arrival, and the next day, we had opportunities with the Ministers and
Elders of that place. They proved seasons of heart-searching labour,
things appearing much out of order with some of them; and, among these,
there was a disposition apparent, to lay waste good order in the
Church. O the great want of honest, faithful labourers in the vineyard.
After our services were finished here, we left them with the answer
of peace, and rode that afternoon to Nine Partners. The next day we
attended Friends’ meeting at Stanford, which proved a season of hard
labour. There was a great want of solid weight, and a living travail,
in order to experience the renewals of strength; the power of truth
went forth freely, for the stirring up, and arousing the careless and
supine from their beds of ease. After this we visited two families of
Friends, and, the two following days, finished our visit to the rest
of the families of Ministers and Elders in Creek monthly meeting. The
rest of the week was taken up in visiting those under the notice of our
appointment, in the monthly meeting of Nine Partners; and I may truly
say, it was, in general, a sorrowful affecting time, in beholding the
great departure of many of the Ministers and Elders, in their families,
from that faithful discharge of duty, which their stations require; for
want of this, their children had almost all gone out from plainness. We
endeavoured to lay before them, in sincerity and simplicity of heart,
the great danger attending such a conduct, and the necessity of a
reform in those things; and felt peace of mind in our labour.
On seventh day afternoon we rode to Marlborough, and attended Friends’
meeting there the next day; it was an exercising season, on account
of the great rawness and inexperience of the members of the meeting
too generally, and the great lightness manifest, in most of those
of other societies, a number of whom were present. My mind, after a
time of hard labour, and suffering with the seed, was engaged in some
service addressed to the latter class. Afterwards way opened to have
Friends select, to whom my mind was led to communicate some things in
a plain way, with the view of stirring them up to more diligence and
circumspection in their families, the better ordering and disciplining
of their children and household, and keeping things sweet and clean,
agreeably to the simplicity of our holy profession; and I had peace in
my labour. That afternoon, and the two following days, we visited all
the families of Ministers and Elders in that monthly meeting, except
one. After this I returned home, and found my family as well as usual;
which I esteemed as a favour from my great and good Master. For this,
with all his other mercies and preservations dispensed from time to
time, I felt a return of thankfulness and grateful acknowledgment to
Him, who is the author and giver of every good and perfect gift, and
“who is over all, God blessed for ever.”
Having for several years felt my mind drawn, at times, in gospel love,
to visit Friends of the yearly meetings of Pennsylvania, New-Jersey,
Delaware, Maryland and some parts of Virginia, in the fall of the year
1797, apprehending the time to be nigh for the performance of the
visit, I laid my concern before Friends of the monthly and quarterly
meetings of which I was a member; and received certificates of their
unity and concurrence. I left home the 12th of 12th month, accompanied
by Joseph Cooper, a member of our meeting, in the station of an Elder;
taking leave of my family and friends, we rode to New-York, and the
meeting for sufferings sitting there the next day, I attended it; and
the day following being the meeting day for Friends of that city,
I felt most easy to stay and attend it, which proved a comfortable
strengthening season. After this I took leave of my friends there,
parting from them in near unity and brotherly affection, and passed the
next morning by water to Staten Island. The day following we had two
meetings there, and though small by reason of rain, were, nevertheless,
both attended with a comfortable degree of divine favour. The next day
we left the island and rode to Shrewsbury; and the day after, being
first day, we sat with Friends there, and, I trust, it was a profitable
season to some present, and relieving to my own mind; strength and
utterance being furnished to open divers truths of the gospel, in the
demonstration of the spirit, accompanied with a good degree of the
divine power; to God only wise be the praise, who is over all, worthy
for ever.
On second day we attended a meeting at a Friend’s house about seven
miles from Shrewsbury, on our way to Squan. On third and fourth days
we were at Squan and Squancum, both small meetings, as there are but
few of our society in those parts; yet they were, for the most part,
satisfactory seasons. We also sat with Friends in their preparative
meeting in the latter place, which appeared in a state of great
weakness; but as way opened, I was led to make some remarks, in order
to stir Friends up to more diligence and circumspection; and to show
the necessity of an inward travail for the arising of truth, which can
only qualify for the right ordering of the affairs of society. The next
day we rode to Barnegat, and after an opportunity with Friends there
the following day, we passed on to Little Eggharbour, where we remained
till first day, the 24th of the month. Notice being spread of our
intention of attending Friends’ meeting there, many of the neighbouring
inhabitants came in, and sat with Friends, and were very attentive;
divers truths of the gospel were opened in the clear demonstration of
the spirit, and I was helped to leave them with a peaceful mind. On
the 25th we rode to Great Eggharbour, and the three following days
attended meetings at the upper and lower meeting-houses of Friends
there, also an appointed meeting near the head of Great Eggharbour
river, at a place called Stephens’ Creek; they were generally small,
yet attended with a good degree of favour; for which my spirit was made
humbly thankful. On sixth day we attended a meeting at Cape May, which,
through the gracious condescension of the Shepherd of Israel, was made
a truly comfortable season, and His great name magnified and praised,
who is worthy for ever.
From thence we rode to Morris’ river, and attended a meeting appointed
at the house of Isaac Buzby, a man inclining to Friends. The spirit
of truth favoured me with wisdom and utterance, to divide the word
suitably to the states of those present; and apparently to their and to
my own satisfaction and comfort. We rode that afternoon to the house
of a Friend of the name of Henry Rulon, where we had an appointed
meeting the next day. After this we passed on to Greenwich, and the
two following days attended a meeting there, and one at the head of
Cohansy Creek. Then we rode to the house of our kind friend Mark
Miller, at Salem, and rested the next day. The day following, being
the first of the week, and 7th of 1st month, we attended the meeting
there, which was very large, many coming in that were not members; the
power of truth was exalted over all, to the comfort of many hearts,
and to the praise and glory of Him, who is the strength and help
of his dependent children. On second day we attended a meeting at
Woodstown; I was closely engaged among them in a searching testimony,
pointing out the great danger, and hurtful tendency of the want of
unity, and joining in with the spirit of the world, and neglecting a
right conformity to the wholesome order, established among us, as a
religious society; whereby many disorders had crept in, wounding to
many: strength was afforded me, and utterance given, and truth exalted
over all opposition and disorderly spirits. The four following days we
attended meetings at Penn’s Neck, Mullica Hill, Upper Greenwich, and
Woodbury; they were all seasons of favour, especially the last, where
truth was eminently exalted, and the doctrines of the gospel held forth
in the demonstration of the spirit; and the hearts of the faithful were
made to rejoice in a sense of the Lord’s goodness, to whom belongs the
praise of his own work for ever.
On seventh day we rested with our esteemed friend Joshua Evens; and
on first day attended Newtown meeting, and the day following, that at
Haddonfield, both of which were profitable edifying meetings. In the
afternoon, after the latter meeting, we crossed the river Delaware
to Philadelphia, and the three following days attended the three
meetings in that city; they were all opportunities of favour, and I
had much satisfaction in this short visit to Friends of this place. I
was comforted in the experience of an open door among them, both in
meetings and in families where my lot was cast; and I felt my spirit
nearly united to a living remnant, especially a number of the beloved
youth, who are under the forming hand, preparing for service; some of
whom, I trust and believe, will be as valiants in their day, for the
promotion of the cause of truth and righteousness in the earth. May the
Lord bless, and keep them faithful to himself, and cover their heads in
the day of battle.
On sixth day, the 19th of 1st month, we left the city in order to
attend a meeting at Darby, notice having gone before of our intention;
it proved an open time, but the meeting was hurt by an indiscreet
appearance towards the end, which clothed my spirit with sorrow, not
only on the Friends’ account, but especially on account of the people,
for whose information and religious instruction, my mind had been
closely engaged. We rode that afternoon to Chester, and the next day
attended a meeting there, which was owned with manifestations of divine
favour; and I was instructed to hand out doctrine, suitable to the
states of the people present. After this we rode to Wilmington; and
the next day, being the first of the week, and the 21st of 1st month,
we attended their forenoon and afternoon meetings. I was silent in the
first; but, through the merciful assistance of the Shepherd of Israel,
the latter proved a comfortable strengthening season; after a time
of close exercise in silent labour, and deep baptism into death and
suffering with the seed, the power of truth went forth with authority
against many things that opened to view, as the cause of that deep
oppression of the seed of life among them; the meeting ended under a
sense of the Lord’s goodness, and many hearts were made to rejoice.
The six following days we attended meetings at Whiteclay Creek,
Appoquinamink, Duck Creek, Little Creek, Motherkill, and Camden, which
is a village where no meeting of Friends is held; things appeared
low in most of them, as to the life of religion. But, through the
condescending goodness of the Shepherd of Israel, I had an open door
among them, and many gospel truths were held forth, in the clear
demonstration of the spirit, and with power; the last, especially,
was a time thankfully to be remembered by me, and, I believe, by many
others present; thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift, that he is
not leaving himself without a witness in the hearts of the people.
The next day, first of the week, we attended Millford meeting; things
appeared very low, and but few of our society in that part, and those
appeared very indifferent, and several of them were absent. On second
day we attended a meeting at Cool Spring, and the next day attended
an appointed meeting on our way towards Third Haven; it was held in a
Friend’s house, who had lately been received a member, and who before
was a professor with the people called Nicholites; he appeared to be a
pretty solid man. The meeting was in a good degree favoured; the way of
preparation, as held forth in John’s dispensation, for the more full
manifestation of the gospel state, was set forth, with the nature of
true Christian or spiritual baptism; and that John’s baptism was only
a figure thereof, and, therefore, was no part of Christ’s baptism,
and, consequently, had no place in, nor could be of any use under, the
dispensation of the gospel. The people appeared generally satisfied,
and I parted with them in peace of mind.
The six following days we attended meetings at North West Fork,
Marshy Creek, Centre, Greensborough, Tuckahoe Neck, and Tuckahoe;
and, although these meetings were attended by but few of those who
were joined in fellowship with us, yet they were mostly crowded full
meetings, many of the neighbouring inhabitants coming in, divers
of whom were holders of slaves, and others very raw and ignorant.
My spirit was much exercised in travail among them, being baptized
into their low and uncultivated states; nevertheless, through the
merciful interference of the Shepherd of Israel, their lost and undone
condition, without a Saviour, was clearly laid open before them; also
the way of return, reconciliation, and salvation. Many present were
aroused and reached by the power of truth, which was graciously
prevalent in most of these meetings; their spirits greatly tendered,
and the few faithful among them were made to rejoice; and my spirit was
humbly thankful, in a sense of the Lord’s goodness; to him alone be the
praise; nothing due to man.
Three of the above meetings were held in meeting-houses belonging to
a people under the denomination of Nicholites; many of them were led
into great self-denial, particularly in regard to dress and household
furniture. They appeared one in principle with us, their faith and
doctrine being founded on the manifestation and influence of the divine
light, inwardly revealed. Most of them, of late, have requested to be
joined in membership with Friends, and have been received. Many of
them appear to be a worthy people; yet, I fear, some were a little
hurt by being too tenacious in their dress, particularly in making it
a point to have all parts of their clothing white. Yet, in general,
they appeared to be a plain innocent upright-hearted people; and I
felt a concern lest they should be hurt by the great and prevailing
deficiencies manifest amongst us, by many turning away from the purity
and simplicity of our holy self-denying profession. This, I believe,
is a subject worthy of the deep consideration of those delinquent
brethren. For if it be a truth, as most certainly it is, that whosoever
offendeth one of the least of those who believe in Christ, it were
better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast
into the sea; what will become of those, who live in the daily practice
of those things, which give continual offence to their brethren, and
are stumbling blocks in the way of honest inquirers.
After attending the aforesaid meetings, we passed on, having meetings
at Choptank, Third Haven and Bayside, on the eastern shore of Maryland.
The two first were attended by many of other societies, a number of
whom were Methodists, and at each was one of their ministers; both of
whom were very solid, and paid great attention; one of them was much
affected, and wept freely for a considerable time; and, with divers
others, manifested their full satisfaction. My spirit was much humbled,
and made to rejoice in the Lord, that he was graciously near, and made
bare his arm for our help, and carried us through the exercise of
those meetings, to the honour of his own name, who is over all, worthy
for ever.
After leaving Bayside, we attended a meeting which we had appointed
the day before, on our way thither, at a village called St. Michael’s,
among the Methodists; the people were nearly all of that profession
in this place. It was held in their meeting-house, and was the first
meeting appointed by any Friend in that place, except a small one
by some women Friends some years before. There was, at this time, a
general collection; and, considering their unacquaintance with us,
and our manner of sitting in silence, they behaved pretty well. A
comfortable degree of the divine presence was witnessed, and many minds
tendered and comforted, and divers gospel truths clearly opened to the
apparent satisfaction of most present.
We left them with peace of mind, and the next day attended a meeting
at Easton, alias Third Haven, among the black people, which we had
appointed some days before. It proved a favoured opportunity, and to
the edification, comfort, and encouragement of this poor, injured, and
too much despised people; many of whom, I believe, have good desires
begotten in their minds after the knowledge of the truth.
The next day, the first of the week, and the 11th of 2d month, we
attended Friends’ meeting at this place, and information of our
intention of being here having been given before, the neighbouring
inhabitants generally came in, so that the house was much crowded. The
gospel was largely and freely preached among them, to the apparent
satisfaction of all present. How marvellous is thy loving kindness,
O Lord, to the workmanship of thy holy hand; how art thou graciously
holding out, from season to season, offers of reconciliation to thy
revolting and rebellious children, and art calling to them, by thy
servants, now, as formerly, return, return, repent and live; for why
will ye die, O house of Israel, saith your God. We continued here and
attended their meeting of Ministers and Elders; and, on fifth day,
their monthly meeting, which was in some degree favoured; divers things
were opened for the improvement and encouragement of Friends in well
ordering the affairs of truth.
The day following we rode to Chester, and the next day attended
Friends’ monthly meeting at Cecil, which was small; but truth favoured
me with ability to labour, to stir up Friends to more vigilance, and
careful waiting for the arising of the spring of life; as nothing
short of the divine power, and renewed quickenings of the holy spirit,
can qualify for the promotion of good order and discipline in the
Church. The next day, the first of the week, we attended the meeting
here. Notice having been given to the neighbouring inhabitants, many
came in, most of whom appeared very raw and light; nevertheless, as
Friends kept down to their exercise, towards the close of the meeting,
truth came into dominion; and all that opposed it was made to bow
and acknowledge its power; for which my spirit was made thankful to
the Author of every blessing. On second and third days following, we
attended two meetings; the first, in Friends’ meeting-house at Chester,
and the latter at Chestertown in their court-house; both pretty large
meetings, and overshadowed with the wing of divine power; although,
in the latter meeting, we had to arrive at it through deep baptism,
and suffering with the seed; for those that reign with Christ, must
be willing likewise to suffer. The people, in the forepart, were very
light, often whispering one to the other; a spirit of licentiousness
appeared to be prevalent with many of them; but as truth arose, they
were gradually subjected, until a becoming solemnity appeared in almost
every countenance. I trust some good was effected in some minds; but we
must leave the event to the Lord, to whom alone belongs all the praise;
nothing due to man, but blushing and confusion of face.
The next day we attended a meeting at the head of Chester; it was
somewhat hurt, in the forepart, for want of room. The house was not
sufficient to contain all who came, and the weather too cold to stand
without; yet, as it settled into quiet, it proved a precious baptizing
season, and many hearts were melted into deep contrition. I had cause
to hope that if the few Friends in that place show forth a good
example, there will be some gathered. The day following we attended the
meeting at Sassafras, to pretty good satisfaction. The next day we rode
to East Nottingham, and attended their monthly meeting the day after;
it proved a very exercising meeting, things being much out of order
among them. I was led forth in a line of close searching labour, both
in testimony in the first part of the meeting, and likewise in that for
discipline; but I got little relief, except from a consciousness, in
myself, of having discharged my duty faithfully among them. The next
day, the first of the week, and 25th of 2d month, we attended their
particular meeting; in which I had to expose, in a close, arousing
testimony, that spirit among Friends, which pleads for joining with
those active in civil government, and taking part therein, and adopting
the maxims and spirit of the world. Truth reigned triumphantly in this
meeting over all opposition and disorderly spirits. The 26th we rested.
The 27th we attended West Nottingham meeting to good satisfaction,
and were made to rejoice in truth’s victory over death and darkness,
for which the honest-hearted were made thankful. The 28th we attended
a meeting, lately established, about five miles distant from the
former, which I sat mostly in silence, feeling no clear commission for
preaching the gospel among them.
The 1st of 3d month, we attended Little Britain meeting, wherein I
was opened and led into a large doctrinal communication, suited to
the states of many present. The meeting was large and solid, and, I
trust, edifying and instructive to a number present. But too many,
who have ears to hear, and are led to acknowledge the truth of
testimonies delivered, neglect the practical part, which is the most
essential; and are, therefore, in a situation like those, who, seeing
their natural faces in a glass, turn away, and forget what manner of
persons they are. The 2d, we passed over the river Susquehannah, and
lodged at Richard Webb’s, at Fawn, and attended their meeting next
day. It was a solid, and, I believe to many, a profitable season. The
4th, and first of the week, we attended Deer Creek meeting, which was
large, and favoured with the overshadowing wing of heavenly regard.
The condescending goodness and mercy of a gracious God to his sinful
creatures were marvellously displayed. The meeting was composed, in
part, of a number of dark undisciplined spirits, many of whom, it was
thought, had not been at any meeting for several years, and some of
them never at any of ours before. The meeting appeared to be generally
brought under a becoming solemnity, and concluded to our solid comfort.
The 5th, we attended Bush River meeting, and although it was composed
generally of a loose careless-minded people, yet truth favoured me;
and, through divine help, the gospel was preached in the demonstration
of the spirit, and with power. Many present were made sensible of its
baptizing influence; and all contrary spirits appeared subjected, and
brought down, and truth reigned triumphant.
The 6th and 7th of 3d month, we attended the meetings at Little Falls,
and Gunpowder, both seasons of favour. The 8th we attended Friends’
monthly meeting at Baltimore. It was, I trust, a profitable season,
both in the meeting for worship, and that for the discipline of the
Church. In the meeting for worship, I was led, in a close searching
testimony, to set forth the great danger, and hurtful effects, of
Friends joining in with the spirit of the world, and taking any part
in the fluctuating governments, customs, and manners thereof. Things
opened clearly to show, that, in days past, the apostacy took place
through that medium, both among the primitive Christians, and also in
our own society; and that the only way, for us as a people to regain
the primitive state, was to return back into ancient simplicity, to
separate from the world, its spirit, governments, manners, and maxims;
and to make no league with those actuated thereby. Truth rose into
dominion, and the faithful among them were strengthened. May praises
for ever be ascribed to the Shepherd of Israel, who is indeed a God
near at hand, and a present helper in every needful time.
The 9th we rested, and I wrote to my family and friends at home. The
10th, we visited several families in the morning, and in the afternoon,
at the third hour, attended a meeting among the poor, at the alms-house
belonging to this city. It proved a comfortable season, and I was
glad I gave up to the service. The 11th being the first of the week,
we attended Friends’ meeting in the forenoon, and some notice being
given among the town’s people of our being there, it was large;
and after sitting a considerable time in silent labour, wherein my
mind was baptized into the states of those present, I stood up with
a prospect of the hurtful tendency of pride, both in religious and
civil society. Truth opened the way, and gradually rose into a good
degree of dominion, and, I trust, it was a profitable season to many
present. In the afternoon, at the third hour, we had a meeting with the
black people; and, except the hurt received by their long and untimely
gathering, I think it was, in general, a comfortable season; and many
among them appeared to be brought into a becoming solemnity, and we
parted under the savour of truth.
On the 12th, we attended a meeting at Elk Ridge; it proved, in general,
a heavy season, yet, I trust, a time of profit and favour to some. We
rode that afternoon thirteen miles towards Indian Spring meeting, which
we attended the next day. In this meeting, I was led, in a plain and
full manner, to expose the enormous sin of oppression, and of holding
our fellow creatures in bondage, with the pernicious fruits and effects
of it, to those who are guilty thereof, especially to their children;
who, being supported by the labour and toil of those held in slavery,
and thereby brought up in idleness, were led into pride, and a very
false, and dark idea respecting God, and his superintending providence,
and into many other evils, fatal to their present and eternal well
being, and tending to disqualify them from being useful in almost any
respect, either to themselves or society, and thereby rendering them
unworthy of the respect of wise and good men. Truth rose into dominion,
and some present, who were slave holders, were made sensible of their
conditions, and were much affected. I felt a hope to arise that the
opportunity would prove profitable to some, and I left them with peace
of mind. Since then, I have been informed, that a woman, present at
that season, who possessed a number of slaves, was so fully convinced,
as to set them free, and, not long after, joined in membership with
Friends: which is indeed cause of gratitude and thankfulness of heart,
to the great and blessed Author of every mercy vouchsafed to the
children of men.
On the 14th we were at Sandy Spring meeting, to satisfaction. The 15th,
we attended Friends’ preparative meeting at Alexandria. It was a small
weak meeting, very few manifesting any real concern for the support of
our Christian testimonies. They gathered there from different parts of
the country, mostly for the advancement of their temporal interest; and
this being uppermost with them, they were disqualified for improvement
in religious experience. O that we, as a people, were more weaned
from the world and its fading enjoyments, and our affections placed
on celestial treasure; then would the light of the Church break forth
out of obscurity, and her darkness become as the noonday; thousands
would then be gathered from the highways and hedges, and flock to the
brightness of her arising, with everlasting joy upon their heads.
The 16th we rode to Fairfax, about forty-six miles. The 17th we
attended their select quarterly meeting. The 18th, the first of the
week, we attended the meeting at this place, which was large, composed
of Friends and others. I was led to open the great advantages attendant
on a life of righteousness, from that scripture passage, “Righteousness
exalteth a nation; but sin is a reproach to any people;” and showing
the difference between a righteousness, founded on the laws, maxims,
and precepts of men, and the righteousness that is witnessed by faith
in the Son of God, as revealed to the hearts and souls of the children
of men through the holy spirit. Although there were many raw, and
uncultivated persons present, yet truth came into a good degree of
dominion and victory, and, I trust, it was a profitable season to some.
The 19th we attended the quarterly meeting for discipline, in which
I had some service, in opening the nature and end of discipline,
and encouraging Friends to an improvement therein, to the solid
satisfaction of the honest in heart. The next day was the youth’s
meeting for the last time; the quarterly meeting, the day before,
having concluded to discontinue the same thereafter, from a belief
that its usefulness was over; and that it had become more hurtful than
beneficial. A great concourse of idle people came together at that
time, not so much for the sake of the meeting, as to see and be seen,
and to make it a place of diversion. I had considerable to say among
them, but got but little relief; by reason, as I apprehended, of a
spirit of infidelity and licentiousness, too generally prevailing among
the people. I was satisfied the quarterly meeting had done right in
discontinuing that meeting; believing, if continued, it would have been
very prejudicial to the youth, for whose good, in the first institution
thereof, it was intended.
The 21st we attended the preparative meeting of South Fork, which is a
branch of Goose Creek monthly meeting. I was silent in the meeting for
worship, but had some close labour with Friends in their preparative
meeting. I felt my spirit much oppressed with a sense of the great
lukewarmness, and love of the world, which appeared to prevail in such
a manner, that the business of the preparative meeting was conducted in
a very weak vague manner, and void of a right sense of the dignity of
such a meeting, or a due concern for the preservation of right order. I
felt peace of mind in a faithful discharge of my duty among them.
The 22d we were at Goose Creek preparative meeting, which was large
in the first sitting, many of other societies coming in. After a
considerable time of silent labour, in deep baptism with the suffering
seed, my mouth was opened in a clear full testimony, directed to the
states of those present. And many were brought under the influence
of that power which “cut Rahab, and wounded the dragon.” Truth came
into dominion, and a good degree of victory over all was witnessed.
Nevertheless, such is the deadness and indifference of some who go
under our name, that, at the close of this very solemn meeting for
worship, they withdrew with those who were not members, and continued
out until the preparative meeting had proceeded considerably in its
business; and then came in one after another, in a very careless
unthinking manner. My heart was grieved, and I have often been
affected with similar conduct in many places in those parts, as also
in some others; a conduct, which appears to me to carry in it great
indignity to our high and holy profession; and, I believe, is greatly
offensive to the great Head of the Church, for the promotion of
whose righteous cause, these meetings for discipline are established.
I believe one great cause of this sorrowful weakness and declension
is owing to a want of due administration of discipline, by those who
are called thereto. By overlooking one little thing after another,
custom establishes those bad habits; and great loss is sustained by
the Church in general, and by some of its members in particular. It
is very observable that meetings, where those things are apparent,
are generally in a declining state. I was exercised in a plain way of
dealing with those delinquents, showing them the hurtful tendency of
such conduct. Truth prevailed, and many hearts were much tendered, and
the hands of the faithful strengthened; to the Lord only wise be the
praise of his own work, who is over all, worthy for ever.
The 23d we attended a meeting at a place called the Gap, where there
was a small meeting of Friends. It was, however, a large collection,
many of other societies attending, more than the house could hold. Many
of them appeared to be a raw insensible people, void of any right idea
or knowledge of true religion, which made the meeting very trying and
painful; yet not without some degree of favour towards the conclusion,
by truth’s obtaining the victory over death and darkness.
Whilst in this neighbourhood, my mind was brought into a state of
deep exercise and travail, from a sense of the great turning away of
many among us, from the law and the testimony, and the prevailing of
a spirit of great infidelity and deism among the people, and darkness
spreading over the minds of many as a thick veil. It was a time in
which Thomas Paine’s _Age of Reason_ (falsely so called) was much
attended to in those parts; and some, who were members in our society,
as I was informed, were captivated by his dark insinuating address, and
were ready almost to make shipwreck of faith and a good conscience.
Under a sense thereof, my spirit was deeply humbled before the majesty
of heaven, and in the anguish of my soul, I said, “spare thy people, O
Lord, and give not thy heritage to reproach,” and suffer not thy truth
to fall in the streets.
The 24th we attended the monthly meeting at Fairfax, which was an
exercising season, things being much out of order, for want of more
faithfulness among the members, and a due attention to discipline. I
laboured among them in the ability received, for their encouragement,
and incitement to their respective duties; but alas for us, most men
mind their own things, and not the things that are Jesus Christ’s. A
worldly spirit too much prevails among the professors of truth, to
their great hurt, and to the great grief of the honest-hearted, who are
in travail for Zion’s prosperity, and Jerusalem’s peace.
The 25th, we attended their first day meeting, which was large, and
in it strength was graciously afforded to minister to the people in
truth’s authority, which came into dominion over all. This afternoon
we passed over the great river Potomac, in our way to Bush Creek,
in Maryland; this, by reason of rains, was very full, and difficult
to pass. After we had passed over the river Potomac, we had much
difficulty in crossing a creek not far from it. There was a floating
bridge over it; but the water was so high, that we could not approach
the bridge by the road commonly used; and we only succeeded in reaching
it, by proceeding ourselves on the top of a high fence, and leading
our horses by our sides. Mine fell into a deep part of the creek; but
he soon rose, and swam to the shore. A Friend was in company with us,
with a one horse carriage; and there appeared to be no way of getting
his conveyance over, but by the horse swimming with it over the creek.
This we knew would be attended with considerable risk, as the creek was
deep in the middle, and the carriage a heavy one. But as there were
no inhabitants on this neck of land, nor near to it, and as night was
coming on, we pursued that course, and led the horse with the carriage
into the creek; and after violent exertions, being at one time drawn
under water by the weight of the carriage, he took it safe over. We
were thus favoured to surmount this great difficulty, without any
hurt to ourselves, or our horses; which was cause of thankfulness and
gratitude to the great Author of every mercy and blessing.
We proceeded to a Friend’s house by the name of Richard Richardson,
where we had a meeting the next day, with his family, and a number of
the neighbouring people, who were not Friends. It proved a favoured
season, and I trust will not soon be forgotten by some present; may it
fasten as a nail in a sure place; and to some I have a hope it may be
as bread cast upon the waters, to return after many days.
The day following we attended Bush Creek meeting, notice having gone
forward some days before, of our intention of being there at this time;
it was large, and greatly favoured with the prevalence of truth, by
way of testimony. Many things, relative to true gospel worship, were
clearly opened, and the fallacy and fruitlessness of all-will worship,
and mere bodily exercise, in matters of religion, manifested to the
view of all present, who had eyes to see, and hearts to understand,
what the spirit saith to the Churches. It was a very solemn time,
worthy of grateful remembrance.
The 28th we attended Pipe Creek meeting, wherein I was greatly
afflicted with evil thoughts, which would keep arising in my mind, that
I was almost at times taken off from my proper exercise. This very
much grieved my spirit; but, as I endeavoured to keep up the warfare,
I was led to believe it was the case with too many present; and that
by giving way to such thoughts, some had become captivated by their
own lusts, wounding one another; and divers disorders, and a want of
unity, had got in among them, and many hurt thereby. I was led into the
necessity of bearing testimony against these things, as way opened, and
calling the attention of all present, to the light, spirit, grace, and
truth of our Lord Jesus Christ, our holy pattern, as the only place
of refuge and preservation from these, and all other hurtful things.
After this meeting, the Friend, where we lodged, informed me the next
morning, that himself and his wife were uneasy that no Friends had come
in to see us after the meeting, and were afraid they would judge them
of having informed me of their condition, the states of many had been
so exactly described in the meeting; but I told him they need not be
troubled, as they knew themselves to be clear.
The two following days we attended meetings at Menallen and Huntington;
they were both exercising seasons; nevertheless, truth favoured me
with ability and understanding to communicate in a close searching
manner, suited to the states of those present; and a crumb of
consolation was handed forth to the few honest-hearted, who were in
travail for Zion’s arising, and who went mourning on their way, and
bowed in spirit, from a sense of the great turning away from the
law and testimony, and the prevalence of a spirit of ease and great
indifference, whereby many wrong things had entered.
From thence we passed on to Warrington and Newberry, in each of which
meetings truth favoured with victory; and the hidden things of Esau, or
the first nature, which are earthly, were brought to light, searched
out, detected, and condemned. The manner and way in which the new
or second birth, which is spiritual, and which has the promise, is
brought forth and effected, was clearly shown and pointed out; with
the blessing attendant thereon, to the comfort of the faithful, and
the few willing minded among them, and to the stirring up and arousing
the lukewarm, careless, and indifferent professors, from their beds of
ease and carnal security. The latter meeting especially was a time to
be remembered; many hearts were greatly affected, and, I trust, the
season will not soon be forgotten by some. I was very thankful for the
relief I felt to my own mind, after many days of deep baptism with the
suffering seed. Religion appeared to be at a very low ebb in those
parts, by the prevalence of a worldly spirit, which makes hard work for
the poor travellers, who have to go up and down among them, as with
their hands upon their loins for very pain. Did those lukewarm careless
professors rightly consider the great distress and exercise they bring
upon their concerned brethren, who are in travail for their redemption
and salvation; and who are going up and down as with their lives in
their hands, through difficulties and dangers, in jeopardy by sea and
by land, and among false brethren, we might reasonably suppose it would
be a means to stir them up to more diligence and circumspection, that
they might thereby comfort them in their exercises, and relieve them
in their tribulations; then they that sow, and they that reap, might
rejoice together, and joy in the God of their salvation.
Our next meeting was at Yorktown, where we tarried two days, and were
at their monthly meeting, wherein things appeared distressingly low, as
to the right conducting of discipline in truth’s authority: indeed the
meeting seemed sunk so below any proper sight and sense of right order,
that no way opened to administer much or any help; and we left them
without obtaining much relief of mind. We passed on, having a meeting
near Wright’s ferry; and then crossed the great river Susquehannah, and
had meetings at Lancaster and Lampeter. On first day, the 8th of 4th
month, we attended a meeting at Sadsbury, which, through hard labour,
proved a season of enlargement, in a line of close doctrine, suited
to the varied states of those present; some minds appeared to be much
humbled; may it not be in vain, but as seed sown on good ground.
The 10th of 4th month we attended West Caln meeting, the 11th
Fallowfield, both favoured meetings. The 12th we attended London Grove
meeting, wherein I was led to open the duty and obligation incumbent on
ministers, elders, overseers, and heads of families. I began with this
query of the prophet Isaiah, “Watchman, what of the night;” showing
that for want of keeping up a strict watch, with an eye single to that
inward holy monitor, or spirit of pure unerring wisdom, many hurtful
and destructive things had got in among us. Especially for want of
a godly care in parents and heads of families, over their children
and those under their charge, many pollutions had got in, and spread
among them; particularly the youth, not only in regard to a departure
from the simplicity and purity of our holy, self-denying profession,
in dress and address, but also in many other unseemly and reproachful
practices; which is but the natural consequence of parents indulging
undue liberties in their children. It was a solemn time, worthy of
grateful remembrance. The 13th we were at West Grove meeting, in which
I had to go through a similar exercise; from a sense of the great want
of faithfulness among the members, whereby many deficiencies were
apparent, wounding the faithful. Truth favoured me with ability to
clear myself among them, with plainness of speech; which was cause of
thankfulness to the honest-hearted.
The 14th we attended New Garden meeting, mostly in silence, in which
I had peace. The 15th, and first of the week, we attended Hockesson
meeting; and, at the fourth hour in the afternoon were at Center; the
16th at Kennet; these were, for the most part, suffering seasons.
Although there is a small remnant preserved, who are in travail for
truth’s arising, yet the greater part are too much captivated by a
worldly spirit; which leads into a neglect of attending meetings, and
great carelessness in respect to the right ordering their families; by
reason whereof, many undue liberties have got in among them, wounding
the faithful and honest-hearted.
The 17th we attended Chichester meeting; it was a time thankfully to be
remembered; the everlasting gospel of peace and salvation was preached
in truth’s authority; and all contrary spirits were subjected and
brought down. Truth reigned triumphantly over all; magnified for ever
be the name of the Lord, who made bare his arm for our help, and the
strengthening and refreshing of my poor soul. I had been at times, for
days and nights past, ready to sink into discouragement and dismay,
by reason of the deep baptisms I had to pass through, unknown to man,
but in fellowship with the suffering seed, which lies smothered and
pressed down in the hearts of many careless and lukewarm professors,
as a cart under sheaves. Oh how does darkness and death spread itself,
as a curtain, in this once highly favoured land! Alas for the people,
for the professors of truth; what will become of them, unless they
repent and turn to the Lord. Parents and children, in some places, are
so estranged from the law and testimony, that many seem plunged into
the condition of Jerusalem formerly, when this pathetic lamentation
was taken up by the dear Master; “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that
killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how
often would I have gathered thy children even as a hen gathereth her
chickens under her wings, and ye would not. Behold your house is left
unto you desolate.” Oh how is this verified; what great desolations,
in a religious sense, are apparent with many professors; and how are
the poor servants, that are sent forth among them for their recovery,
as with their lives in their hands, as it were stoned, and often so
plunged into death and sufferings, as almost to despair of life! Oh the
pangs that my poor soul has endured of late, in many places; so that
I had often to say in secret, with the holy apostle; “why stand we in
jeopardy every hour?” No tongue can tell, nor is it in the power of
language to communicate, the distress and anguish, which is sometimes
endured by the poor travellers, in filling up their measure of the
afflictions of Christ, for his body’s sake, the Church. But, in this
also, we are sometimes strengthened to rejoice, that we are accounted
worthy to suffer with Him, that when he is pleased to arise in his own
strength, as the light of the morning, we may be permitted to reign
with Him; and rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.
The three following days, we were at Concord, Birmingham, and Bradford,
all favoured meetings, through fervent labour, and the prevalence of
truth; may the Lord make it effectual, and fasten it as a nail in a
sure place. The 21st we were at East Caln, mostly silent. The 22d,
and first of the week, we were at Uwchlan; the meeting was large,
wherein I had to expose the danger of self-righteousness, or a trust in
natural religion, or mere morality; showing that it was no more than
the religion of Atheists, and was generally the product of pride and
self-will; and, however good it may appear to the natural unregenerate
man, is as offensive in the divine sight, as those more open evils,
which appear so very reproachful to the eyes of men. I was favoured by
the spirit of truth, in a large searching testimony, to the convicting
and humbling many hearts, and comfort of the faithful.
The 23d we attended the meeting at Nantmill, mostly in silence. The
three following days, we were at Pikeland, Valley, and Willistown
meetings; all in a good degree favoured. The 27th we were at Goshen;
the meeting was large. I had to caution Friends against mixing with
the people in their human policies, and outward forms of government;
showing that, in all ages, those, who were called to be the Lord’s
people, had been ruined, or suffered great loss, by such associations;
and manifesting clearly by scripture testimony, and other records, that
our strength and preservation consisted in standing alone, and not to
be counted among the people or nations; who were setting up party, and
partial interests, one against another, which is the ground of war and
bloodshed: these are actuated by the spirit of pride, and wrath, which
is always opposed to the true Christian spirit, which breathes “peace
on earth, and goodwill to all men.” Those, therefore, who are in the
true Christian spirit, cannot use any coercive force or compulsion by
any means whatever; not being overcome with evil, but overcoming evil
with good. Although there were many opposing spirits present, who,
in their creaturely wisdom and human policy, are pleading for those
kinds of associations, and taking part in those political governments,
yet truth favoured, and came into a good degree of dominion over all,
strengthening and encouraging the true travellers for Zion’s prosperity.
The 29th, and first of the week, we attended Middletown meeting; and
at the fourth hour in the afternoon, were at Providence; both large
crowded meetings, more than the houses could contain. I was favoured
by the power of truth, in an eminent manner, especially in the former
meeting; where many hearts were deeply bowed, from the sensible
evidence of the prevalence of divine power, which was in dominion over
all, tendering the hearts of most present. It was a precious season,
worthy of thankful remembrance, and humble gratitude to the blessed
Author of all our rich mercies and blessings, “who is over all, God
blessed for ever.”
The 30th we attended the monthly meeting at Providence, consisting
of the particular meetings of Providence, Middletown, Springfield,
and Chester. Things in this meeting appeared in a low state, as to
the right ordering of the affairs of the Church. Numerous, and great,
were the apparent deviations among them; many of their youth were gone
out into the foolish fashions and vain customs of the world to such
a degree, as not to retain any marks of true primitive plainness. “O
how is the gold become dim; how is the most fine gold changed!” Many
parents, who retain a good degree of outward plainness themselves,
for want of dwelling enough in the pure spring of divine life, have
suffered the eye of their minds to be so far blinded by the god of
this world, as not only to suffer these improper indulgences in their
families, and among their children, but, in some instances, are ready
to plead for them. The sense of this much affected my mind, and under
this exercise I was led forth in a line of close searching labour among
them, to stir up Friends to more diligence, and honest care in those
respects; which, I trust, afforded a degree of comfort and strength
to the honest-hearted, and procured peace to my own mind, which is a
treasure I prefer to all this world’s glory and honour.
The 1st of 5th month we attended the meetings of Springfield, and
Haverford; both favoured, profitable seasons. The 2d we were at
Newtown, where, in a line of close searching labour, I was led to
show the danger of trusting the salvation of our souls to any thing
short of a full surrender of our wills, and an entire dedication of
our hearts to the Lord, in an humble circumspect walking before Him;
and separating ourselves from the world, its spirit, manners, maxims,
governments, honours and customs; all of which are polluted, and
arising from the lusts of the flesh, the lusts of the eye and the pride
of life. Truth rose into victory, softening many hearts, and comforting
and strengthening the faithful. Surely God is good to Israel, although
in a state of great revolting; yet he delighteth in showing himself
merciful; praised and magnified be his great and adorable name, over
all for ever.
The 3d and 4th we attended meetings at Radnor and Merion; and then
passed on to Philadelphia, to attend their quarterly meeting, which
opened on the 5th, with a meeting for Ministers and Elders, and closed
on third day the 8th of the month, with a meeting for the youth, and
one for the black people, in the afternoon. I think, in general, it was
a time of favour, through much hard labour in the several sittings.
Indeed we have no reason to expect to come at the spring any other way,
than by faithfully digging, as with our staves, while there remains so
much rubbish on the well’s mouth.
The 9th we attended the select quarterly meeting at Abington; and
the day following the quarterly meeting for discipline. I was
engaged among them, in each meeting, and the favour extended was
cause of thankfulness to the honest-hearted. The 11th we returned to
Philadelphia; and, in the afternoon, passed over the river Delaware to
Haddonfield in West Jersey. The 12th we attended a monthly meeting at
Upper Evesham; it was a low time, with not much of that divine life and
power, which only can qualify for the right conducting of discipline,
to be felt among them; and left them without much relief of mind.
The 13th of the month, and first of the week, we attended meetings at
Evesham, and Cropwell; in the former, I was helped to labour pretty
largely in testimony, to the comfort of a few honest-hearted, and
a number of youth with tender minds; but the greater part of the
meeting appeared to be in a state of great insensibility and ease; a
situation which is generally callous to all the tender invitations,
and entreaty of their friends, who are in travail for their redemption
and salvation; and too much like the deaf adder, which will not listen
to the voice of the charmer, although he charm ever so wisely. In the
latter meeting, I was silent as to ministry.
The 14th we attended the monthly meeting at Haddonfield, in which I
laboured, in the ability received, for their help and improvement.
But alas, some meetings are so lost to the life of true religion,
and so many, who go under our profession, are sunk into such a state
of indifference and lukewarmness, that the affairs of the Church are
too much conducted in a kind of rotation, and creaturely wisdom, void
of that true weight, and feeling sensibility, which only gives right
qualification for service in the Church; hence great weakness ensues,
and the way of right reformation is closed, and truth prevented from
arising in its primitive splendour and beauty.
The 15th we were at Moore’s Town and Rancocas; in the former meeting,
the power that “cut Rahab, and wounded the dragon,” manifestly
prevailed to the tendering many hearts. Truth came into victory over
all; praised for ever be the right worthy name of Israel’s King, who,
in holy condescending love, was pleased to make bare his arm for
our help; and once more redeemed my poor soul out of adversity, and
the deep depressing baptisms, which for some days past it had been
plunged into, by suffering with the seed, which lies pressed down
in the hearts of many lukewarm worldly minded professors, as a cart
with sheaves. From thence we passed on, having meetings at Mansfield
Neck, Burlington, Mansfield, and Bordentown; which were all favoured
meetings, truth being near for our help.
The 20th, and first of the week, we were at Trenton; the meeting was
large, many of the town’s people, of other professions, came in.
Strength was made manifest in the midst of weakness, and, as truth
arose, the gospel was preached in the clear demonstration of the
spirit; many hearts were tendered and comforted, and the few faithful
made to rejoice, in a grateful sense of the Lord’s mercies.
The 22d we were at Stony Brook meeting, wherein my heart was made glad
through holy help, and I was enabled to labour among them in truth’s
authority, to the comfort of the willing-hearted, and the solid peace
of my own mind. The two following days we were at Plainfield, and
Rahway; in the latter meeting I was wholly silent; but the former was a
time of close labour, in a clear plain way, to stir up the minds of the
people to more diligence, and an inward humble walking with the Lord;
which appeared to be too much wanting among them.
The 25th we attended an appointed meeting at Newark, a town wherein
no Friends reside. The meeting was small, and those gathered appeared
mostly in a loose uncultivated state of mind; yet, I believe, there
were some thoughtful persons present; and, I trust, the meeting was in
some degree profitable. I left them with peace of mind, and proceeded
that evening to New-York to attend the yearly meeting, which was to
be opened there on the next day, with a meeting for Ministers and
Elders. After the first sitting of the meeting, I rode home, not only
to see my dear wife and family, from whom I had been absent more than
five months, but also to assist them in getting out to the yearly
meeting. Our rejoicing was precious, and mutual, in and under a sense
of the Lord’s mercy and goodness, for whose gracious preservation and
help, in this arduous journey, my spirit was made to bow in humble
adoration and praise, beyond the expression of language. Oh my soul,
what canst thou render unto the Lord for all his benefits! Nothing can
be more acceptable, than an entire surrender of thine all to his holy
disposing; and to endeavour, as at the present time, to continue humbly
to worship at the footstool of his holy throne of grace. Amen.
I was absent from home in this journey about five months and two weeks,
and rode about sixteen hundred miles, and attended about one hundred
and forty-three meetings.