Engagements at and near home, 1817.--Visit to some parts of the
yearly meetings of Philadelphia and Baltimore, 1817.
First day, the 2d of 2d month, 1817. I was largely led forth in our
meeting to-day, on the different dispensations communicated to man
by his gracious Creator, in order for his recovery out of the fall,
and pointing out to the people the difference between the law state
and that of the gospel: showing that the former was a mere figure or
prelude to the latter, and that the first, with all its elementary
rituals, ceased where the latter begun; the first only affecting the
body, the latter principally the soul; the first only the shadow of
good things, the latter the substance of all good to man; by which he
is altogether redeemed from sin and death, as he submits willingly
and fully to the power of the gospel, and is thereby prepared for an
inheritance in eternal life.
In the course of this week, besides giving the necessary attention to
my temporal affairs, I made several friendly visits to the families
of some particular friends, in company with my wife and daughter
Elizabeth. Although I met with some occurrences, one in particular,
which produced considerable exercise on my mind, yet I had satisfaction
in the visits; believing that when they are properly made, they often
prove mutually comfortable and encouraging. Sat our meeting on fifth
day in silence.
First day, the 9th. Had a silent meeting to-day. This week afforded
occasion of deep inward exercise, and seasons of heart-searching, in
a view of the manifest declension of many among us from that honest
simplicity and faithfulness which so eminently characterized our worthy
predecessors, as also the increase of vanity and immorality among the
people without; and which I fear may have been increased by the want of
faithfulness among us, in the right and full support of our Christian
testimonies.
First day, the 16th. Soon after I took my seat in our meeting to-day,
my mind was quickened and led into a sympathetic feeling with the state
of Elijah, when he fled from the wrath and persecution of Ahab and
Jezebel, and when under great discouragement and dismay he bemoaned his
condition; saying, that they had pulled down the Lord’s altars, slain
his servants, and he only was left and they sought his life; but the
Lord told him for his encouragement, that there were seven thousand
yet left in Israel, who had not bowed their knee to the image of Baal.
But these no doubt were so scattered and dispersed among the people,
that Elijah could scarcely find one to whom he might open his mind, and
therefore felt himself as one alone. This no doubt is the lot of some
of the Lord’s most faithful servants in the present day, and was it not
for the same divine help and succour that Elijah experienced, some of
these at times would be altogether cast down and discouraged.
The subject spread and enlarged, and opened to a field of doctrine;
wherein I was led to show to the people that the mystery of iniquity
had wrought in and under every dispensation of God to the Church
through its varied transformations, and always resembling as much as
may be, an angel of light; by which it lies in wait to deceive, and has
generally deceived, and still deceives, the greater part of the people
of all the nations under heaven; setting up its post by God’s post, and
leading its votaries to perform their worship and works just like the
Lord’s servants, with only this difference, that it is done in a way
and time of their own heart’s devising. But the Lord’s children are all
taught of the Lord, and they are made to know it; for in righteousness
they are established, and great is the peace of these children; and
there is no peace to the wicked, to such as walk in their own wills,
and in the way of their own heart’s devising.
On fifth day of this week, was our monthly meeting, at which we had the
company of a Friend in the ministry from one of our upper quarterly
meetings. He preached the truth to us in a pretty correct manner;
but I thought I never saw, with greater clearness than at this time,
that ministers might preach the literal truth, and yet not preach the
real gospel: and herein is witnessed the truth of that saying of the
apostle, that “the _letter_,” however true, “_killeth_;” “but the
_spirit_,” and the spirit only, “_giveth life_.” And it is a great
thing when ministers keep in remembrance that necessary caution of the
divine Master, not to premeditate what they shall say; but carefully to
wait in the nothingness and emptiness of self, that what they speak may
be only what the Holy Spirit speaketh in them; then will they not only
speak the truth, but the truth, accompanied with power, and thereby
profit the hearers.
First day, 23d. A silent meeting to-day. Nothing transpired in the
course of this week, which required particular notice. Sat our meeting
on fifth day in silence.
First day, the 2d of 3d month. Having felt my mind for several weeks
past drawn to visit Bethpage meeting, I rode thither to-day in company
with my wife. It was rather a low dull time, but as I continued in the
patience, a small prospect opened on the excellency of justice, and the
right bringing up of children. It led to a communication instructive
and edifying, for which I was made thankful.
First day, the 9th. This day as I sat in our meeting, my mind was
led to view the exalted and precious state those enjoyed, who were
brought by their faithfulness to witness in themselves the fulfilment
of the first and great commandment, that of loving God above all;
as they would thereby likewise know the fulfilment of the second,
that of loving their neighbour as themselves. As the subject spread
on my mind I believed it right to express it to the assembly, which
brought a precious solemnity over the meeting, and, I trust, it was an
instructive season to some present.
This week principally spent in the care of my temporal concerns and in
lending assistance to the needy, and in the course of which my mind
was often attended with comforting ejaculations after this manner.
“The Lord is my strength and my song, the lifter up of mine head and
my salvation; therefore I will not fear what man can do unto me. He
leadeth me about and instructeth me, and preserveth me from the snare
of the fowler, and from the strife of tongues.”
First day, the 16th. Our meeting to-day was large and solemn, and
mostly silent. A little before the close, an exhortation of the apostle
Peter was brought before the view of my mind: “Be sober, be vigilant;
because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about
seeking whom he may devour.” As the subject opened I found it my duty
to spread it before the meeting, with some observations thereon,
tending to excite the people to diligence, inasmuch as there could
be no doubt of the truth of the apostle’s testimony; hence it was
necessary for each one to keep the watch, resisting him steadfast in
the faith. The communication though short, was so attended with the
quickening power of the gospel, as to reach, affect, and tender many
minds, and brought a solemn awe over the meeting. Such seasons are
worthy of grateful acknowledgments to the blessed Author of all our
rich mercies.
Spent this week mostly at and about home, enjoying sweet peace of mind,
and the solace of heart-felt thankfulness to the Shepherd of Israel
for the unmerited favour. Attended the funeral of a deceased neighbour
on fourth day and our monthly meeting on fifth day. The funeral was
largely attended by the neighbouring inhabitants, among whom I was led
forth vocally to espouse the cause of the gospel, in a large impressive
testimony. Many hearts were humbled, and the assembly in general
solemnized; may it be to these as bread cast upon the waters, gathered
after many days.
First day, the 23d. Our meeting to-day was a season thankfully to be
remembered. The subject that arrested my mind and led to communication,
was a comparative view of man with the rest of the animal creation;
showing that man, although endued with a rational understanding, and
blessed with a measure and manifestation of the spirit of God, to guide
him infallibly in the way of his duty, had nevertheless swerved much
further from the state of rectitude in which he was created, than any
other creature; and was much more changeable and unstable than they.
This is a sure mark of his fall: and although continually liable and
willing to change, to gratify his own will and the humour of others,
in following the changeable customs and manners of a vain world; yet
averse to that necessary and laudable change, whereby he might regain
paradise and renew communion with his Maker. This and much more I
was led to open to the auditory, in the demonstration of the spirit,
showing the way of man’s return; whereby many minds present were
humbled and contrited, and solid satisfaction and comfort afforded to
my own.
On fourth day, I attended a marriage at Bethpage. It was, I think, a
solid instructive season. On fifth day attended our own meeting which
was held in silence. The rest of the week I was busily attentive to my
usual avocations.
First day, the 30th. I attended Westbury meeting, wherein my mind was
opened into a view of man’s primitive state, the manner and means of
his fall, and the way whereby he only can be restored, all which I
had largely to spread before the meeting. In addition to this, I had
also to caution Friends, particularly the youth, against letting their
minds out in their own will and wisdom, into a search and pursuit after
forbidden knowledge, particularly that of the _origin of evil_, which
in the present day is a subject of much conversation and inquiry. For
man in the beginning was forbidden the knowledge of good and evil, and
that command is as binding and obligatory in the present day as it was
in the primitive state; therefore all those who presume in their own
wills and creaturely wisdom, independent of the teaching of the spirit
of God, to know good and evil, do thereby desert God, and so become
dead to the divine life; and this is man’s fall, and leads to Deism and
Atheism.
I was much engaged in the course of this week in endeavouring to
arrange and settle some difficulties in the neighbourhood, and in
regulating some of my own temporal affairs. Sat our meeting on fifth
day in silence.
First day, the 6th of 4th month. Sat our meeting to-day in silence.
In the afternoon at the fourth hour, we had a meeting appointed by
a Friend from abroad, who was accompanied by another Friend in the
ministry, both of whom appeared in public testimony.
Most of this week I was occupied about home. Attended our preparative
meeting on fifth day, which being the time of answering our queries to
go forward to the yearly meeting, I was led to make several remarks
to Friends to stir them up to more faithfulness, in order that we
might profit by the queries, and be prepared to answer them with more
clearness and propriety, according to truth and justice.
First day, the 13th. Sat our meeting to-day in silence. This week our
monthly meeting was held, at which the state of society as represented
by the answers to the queries from our preparative meetings was
attended to, and a summary thereof forwarded to the quarterly meeting
to be held the following week. This order of reading and answering the
queries quarterly, if rightly attended to, and Friends were generally
kept lively in spirit, and were zealously engaged for the promotion of
truth, would, I believe, be productive of much good to the society: but
alas! there are so many who seem lulled asleep in the lap of the world,
and their minds clothed with so much indifferency, that it is to them
but a dead lifeless form. Surely these reap little or no advantage from
their right of membership among us.
Sixth day. Was our preparative meeting of Ministers and Elders, in
which nothing transpired worthy of notice.
First day, the 20th. Our meeting to-day, as well as at some former
times, has been rather heavy and dull. In the course of this week I
attended our quarterly meeting, held at this time at New-York. It was
in general rather a low time, although not without some manifestations
of divine favour: therefore we had no cause for murmuring but rather of
rejoicing, in that we were not cast off and forgotten.
First day, the 27th. Sat our meeting again in silence. My present
allotment is to be mostly at home, generally engaged in temporal
concerns for myself and others. But, I trust, instead of increasing
my love to the world and the things of it, I am fast weaning from it,
and my love continually increasing and strengthening to higher and
better objects; as my attention to the world and its cares arises
from necessity and duty, and not from love, except that I love to do
my duty in all respects to God my Creator, and man my fellow creature,
believing that there is no real Christianity without it.
Our fifth day meeting was quiet and solemn, wherein I had to remind
Friends that it was not enough to say with Peter, when queried of by
his Master whether he loved him, “yea Lord,” for this is no more than
every professor is ready to say, although they may be quite void of any
true sense thereof; but we must come to know him and love him in such
manner, as when brought to a full trial of our faith and love, we can
say as Peter did in his third answer: “Lord thou knowest all things,
thou knowest that I love thee.” For this is the situation of mind which
prepares to be at his disposal, and to endure hardness for his sake in
the Christian warfare.
First day, the 4th of 5th month. My mind was led into an interesting
view and reflection on the following gracious invitation of our Lord:
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give
you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me: for I am meek and
lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” As the subject
spread on my mind attended with a degree of life, I was constrained
to communicate the prospect, showing that Christ’s yoke was nothing
less nor more than the revealed will of his, and our, heavenly Father;
which, as it is faithfully submitted to, yokes down and keeps in
subjection every desire and propensity of the human mind which stands
in opposition thereto. So that the creature hereby knows God’s kingdom
to be come, and his will to be done, in earth as it is done in heaven;
and the reward of rest and peace promised in the closing part of the
invitation is experienced.
The following part of this week spent principally in my usual
vocations, except attending our preparative meeting on fifth day; and
at the third hour in the afternoon, the funeral of our Friend Joshua
Powell of Westbury, who was taken from us after a short illness, by a
sudden inflammation and mortification in one of his arms. How true is
that saying of the prophet: “All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness
thereof is as the flower of the field; the grass withereth, the
flower fadeth;” just such is man, alive to-day, to-morrow is dead.
This subject very sensibly impressed my mind at the funeral, and led
to an awakening communication, which had a very reaching effect on the
assembly. I hope the word that went forth will not return void, but
prove a blessing to some who were present.
First day, the 11th. Our meeting to-day was a trying season, but little
felt of the real virtue and life of religion. It seemed as though we
were in a worse condition than the multitude formerly; for there was a
lad found among them with five barley loaves and a few fishes, which
served for the blessing to operate upon and enlarge, so as to suffice
the multitude and leave fragments remaining; but we were almost, or
altogether destitute of any thing for the blessing of heaven to act
upon. Therefore we ought not to murmur, although we were sent empty
away.
Except attending our monthly meeting on fifth day, and assisting some
of my neighbours to settle their business in which a dispute had
arisen, I was principally occupied in my temporal concerns through the
week.
First day, the 18th. A silent meeting to-day. The rest of this week
busily employed preparatory to leaving home to attend our approaching
yearly meeting. Left home early on seventh day morning, and got into
the city seasonably to attend the opening of the yearly meeting of
Ministers and Elders at the tenth hour. On second day at the same
hour, the meeting for discipline opened, and continued by adjournments
until the seventh day following. In the forenoon of that day at about
eleven o’clock it closed, under a comfortable evidence that the divine
presence presided; and which, with thankfulness and gratitude we have
humbly to acknowledge, has, in gracious condescension, been vouchsafed
to us in the several sittings of our large solemn assembly, in as
great, if not greater degree, than has been witnessed in any previous
season: tending to unite all the rightly concerned members in a living
travail, for the promotion of the cause of truth and righteousness, and
the spreading and exaltation of those precious testimonies given us as
a people to bear for the Prince of Peace.
First day, the 1st of 6th month. Attended our own meeting to-day in
humbling silence. Spent the week at and about home, except attending
the funeral of our ancient Friend Isaac Underhill of Flushing, on sixth
day; on which occasion a meeting was held in Friends’ meeting-house at
that place. It was a very solemn, and, I trust, a profitable season to
some present. My mouth was opened among them to testify of the things
concerning the kingdom of God, in a large affecting testimony, whereby
many hearts were contrited and made humbly thankful for the present
favour, and I was glad in believing that the Lord is still mindful of
his people, and is graciously disposed to strengthen and support them
in the needful time; as their eye is kept single to him, looking to him
only for help and salvation.
First day, the 8th. Had a comfortable meeting to-day. The testimony
to the power of truth went forth freely to the people, comforting and
contriting many minds present. This is the Lord’s doing and is worthy
of grateful acknowledgments from his people, for such continued yet
unmerited mercy.
On third day I attended a meeting at Bethpage, appointed by our friends
Elizabeth Coggeshall and Ann Shipley of New-York, who were now among us
on a religious visit. It was, I think, a season of great favour; not
only the two women appeared in seasonable and appropriate testimonies,
tending to gather the minds of the people into a very comfortable
solemnity, but also, my heart and mouth were opened in a large
affecting testimony, which found a ready entrance into the minds of
most present, breaking down all opposition and contriting many hearts
by the prevalence of truth, which ran as oil over all. After this, our
friend Elizabeth closed the service in solemn supplication. It was a
day of favour, worthy of grateful remembrance.
On fifth day I attended our preparative meeting, in which I had some
service for the promotion of truth’s cause. The four other days of this
week, I spent in my usual necessary avocations.
First day, the 15th. Nothing in particular to remark respecting the
exercise of this day.
On the fourth day of this week, our monthly meeting was held, in which
I was led into some close searching exercise, in order to stir up
Friends to more diligence and circumspection, that so their light
might shine forth to the help of others, and their conduct appear
consonant with their profession. In this meeting I found it expedient
and consistent with my duty, to open to Friends a prospect and concern
which had for a considerable time rested on my mind, to pay a visit in
gospel love, to Friends and others in some parts of the yearly meetings
of Philadelphia and Baltimore. The subject obtained the solid attention
of the meeting, and some Friends were appointed to confer with me on
the subject, and, as way opened, prepare an essay of a certificate for
that purpose, and produce it to our next meeting.
First day, the 22d. Whilst sitting in our meeting to-day, my mind was
led into a view of the great and singular advantages that would accrue
to the children of men, from their having right and just ideas of
religion, the want of which was the principal cause of all the distress
and misery that fell to their lot, both here and hereafter. The subject
spread, and, as I communicated, opened to a large field of doctrine,
which had a very reaching effect upon the assembly, and a very precious
solemnity was spread over the meeting; for which my heart was made
truly glad, with that gladness that hath no sorrow with it.
The rest of the week I was busily employed in the care of my temporal
concerns, which nevertheless has no tendency, if kept within right
bounds, to prevent internal religious exercises, and spiritual
meditations and soliloquies. Sat our fifth day meeting in silence.
First day, the 29th. I sat our meeting to-day in a sense of great
weakness, in which I realized the truth of David’s testimony: “Verily
every man at his best estate is altogether vanity.”
Except attending in silent meditation our fifth day meeting, and the
funeral of the only daughter of my brother Samuel, on seventh day, I
was engaged as usual during the week, in my family cares; which indeed
is an arduous task, if rightly performed, and every department duly
cared for in its right season, consistent with our moral and religious
duty. The funeral mentioned above was a solemn one, in which I was
largely led forth to testify of the things concerning the kingdom
of God; opening the way of life and salvation to the people, in the
demonstration of the spirit. The assembly were generally solemnized by
the efficacy of the power which attended, and truth raised into victory
over all. Such favours are truly worthy of deep heart-felt gratitude
and thanksgiving to the God and Father of all our sure mercies, who is
over all, worthy for ever.
First day, the 6th of 7th month. Soon after I took my seat in our
meeting to-day, my mind was opened into a view of the great need man
stands in of a Saviour, and that nothing can give him so full and
lively a sense thereof, as a true sight and sense of his own real
condition; by which he is not only brought to see the real want of a
Saviour, but is also shown thereby, what kind of a Saviour he needs.
For it must not only be one, who is continually present, but who is
possessed of a prescience sufficient to see, at all times, all man’s
enemies, and every temptation that may or can await him; and have power
sufficient to defend him from all, and at all times. Therefore, such a
Saviour as man wants, cannot be one without him, but must be one that
is always present, just in the very place man’s enemies assault him,
which is _within_, in the very temple of the heart: as no other Saviour
but such an one, who takes his residence in the very centre of the soul
of man, can possibly produce salvation to him: hence, for man to look
for a Saviour or salvation any where else, than in the very centre of
his own soul, is a fatal mistake, and must consequently land him in
disappointment and errour.
I was led forth to communicate largely to the people on the subject;
and on the blessed effects that do, and will result to all those who
find such a Saviour, and who, in humility and sincerity of heart,
follow him faithfully in the way of his leadings. It was a solemn
season, and a day thankfully to be remembered.
I was taken up principally the rest of this week, except attending our
preparative meeting on fifth day, in my hay harvest. It is a laborious
season; and is made much more so by reason of there being so few
faithful labourers, among those who offer themselves as such. Most of
them are more anxiously careful how they may obtain the highest wages,
than to be engaged honestly to strive justly to earn them. This makes
the care and oversight of such business rather irksome and unpleasant,
which otherwise would be agreeable and often delightful.
First day, the 13th. I sat our meeting in silence. This week I was
mostly taken up in caring for and assisting in, my hay harvest. For by
the fertility of the season, our fields have brought forth plenteously.
On fifth day our monthly meeting was held, in which Friends united with
the concern I had laid before them at the preceding monthly meeting,
to pay a visit in gospel love to Friends and others, in some parts of
the yearly meetings of Philadelphia and Baltimore. A certificate was
prepared for the purpose, leaving me at liberty to proceed therein, as
way should open.
First day, the 20th. A solemn, and, I trust, a profitable meeting
to-day, in which the gospel was preached freely in the demonstration of
truth, and a precious covering was felt to spread over the assembly;
and sweet peace clothed my mind at the conclusion. Surely the Lord is
a bountiful and rich rewarder of all his faithful servants, who serve
him, not for reward, but for the sake of that love wherewith he loveth
them, and which he so abundantly sheddeth abroad in their hearts, that
they are thereby drawn to love him above all; and in and under the
influence of this precious love, they are led and constrained to serve
and worship him freely for his own sake, because he is worthy, and not
for any reward to themselves, because they are altogether unworthy; and
because that precious love wherewith he hath loved them, and with which
he hath filled their hearts, hath banished and dispelled therefrom
every germ of self-love, and all kind of selfishness. Nevertheless,
of his own rich bounty and free will, without any real merit on our
part, he abundantly and plenteously bestoweth his blessings upon
all his faithful servants and children, whereby their love to him
is continually increased, until he becomes their all in all, their
alpha and omega, and they are brought into the possession of that
perfect love that casteth out all fear; and in which they are enabled
continually to worship and adore Him who liveth for ever, and who only
is everlastingly worthy of all blessing and praise.
In the course of this week was our quarterly meeting, which was held
at this time at Westbury. It was a season of exercise to all who were
concerned for the promotion of right order in the Church; and much
counsel, reproof, and admonition, were communicated, under right
influence, to stir up the negligent and refractory members to more
faithfulness and attention to their several duties, and a more full
submission to the manifestations of divine grace in their own minds,
that they may be thereby strengthened to arise, and shake themselves
from the dust of the earth, and separate themselves from those
hindering and annoying things, which divert and turn them aside from
their Christian duty, and those things in which their best interest
consists. The meeting for worship was likewise a favoured season.
Many very important truths of the gospel were clearly opened in the
demonstration of the spirit; and the meeting closed under a thankful
sense of the unmerited mercy; and the living among us separated to
their several homes with grateful hearts.
I laid before this meeting my prospect of a religious visit as
aforementioned, and received the unity and concurrence of the men’s
and women’s meetings; and an endorsement thereof was made on my
certificate. Being now left at liberty, and separated to the work
whereunto I believed myself called by the Holy Spirit, and knowing
my own insufficiency, and that of myself I can do nothing, all that
remains for me is to cast my care wholly on him, in full faith,
who hath called me; and, as I abide in the patience and in a full
submission to his heavenly will, he that putteth his servants forth,
will in his own right time go before them and make way for them,
without which there is no way; and will make darkness light before
them, and not forsake, but safely carry them through and over all the
opposition and discouragements, that either men or devils may or can
cast in the way, to the exceeding praise of his grace, and to the glory
and exaltation of his great and excellent name, who is over all, God
blessed for ever.
First day, the 27th. My mind while sitting in our meeting to-day, was
led into a view of the great necessity there was of more faithfulness
and attention to the inward principle of divine truth, or inward
teacher in the mind, as professed by us as a people. For want of this,
many were led into divers errours and deficiencies, which in their
tendency not only led to great weakness, but to the encouragement of
evil doers in their evil practices; a sight and sense of which had
for some time been a cause of much exercise to my mind. The subject
became very impressive, insomuch that I found it necessary to spread
it before the meeting in a large arousing testimony; laying before the
auditory the great danger many were in for want of a living concern to
work out, through the assistance of divine grace, their salvation while
the day of visitation was lengthened out. For nothing short of a full
submission to the operation of divine truth on their minds could fit
and prepare them for the awful approaching season, when the pale-faced
messenger shall arraign us before the judgment seat of Him, whom we
can neither awe nor bribe, to give an account of the deeds done in the
body, whether good or evil. A solemn weight spread over the meeting and
many minds appeared to be deeply humbled. May the exhortation be fixed
in their remembrance, as a nail in a sure place that may not be moved,
is the fervent desire of my mind.
The rest of this week I was busily employed in endeavouring so to
arrange my temporal matters, that when I leave home on the prospect
before me, I may feel my mind at full liberty therefrom, and that
no occasion may be given, through the medium of any of my temporal
engagements, for the enemies of truth to gainsay or find fault, to the
disadvantage or reproach of the great and dignified cause I was about
to embark in. For I have been led to believe some who have gone out on
this solemn embassy, for want of this care have given too much occasion
for censure, and have thereby wounded the cause they have proposed to
promote, and brought much exercise on the minds of the faithful.
On fifth day at our meeting, my mind was deeply bowed in commemoration
of the Lord’s continued mercies, and that indeed it might be said of
us as it was of Israel formerly, that it was of the Lord’s mercies we
were not consumed; and I was made thankful in believing, that there was
a small remnant who were preserved faithful to his name and cause,
and who were the salt of the society, and for whose sake he would not
utterly cast us off nor forsake us. Surely it is of his unmerited mercy
that we are not swallowed up in the mass of the people, and numbered
among the unstable multitude who have no sure and solid foundation to
rest their hopes upon, but are trusting in a ceremonial religion, of
man’s invention; all which in the day of trial will fail them, and
afford no succour to the soul.
First day, the 3d of 8th month. My mind was brought under exercise in
our meeting to-day, in a view of the great want of diligent attention
to the light within, or that measure of the spirit given to every one
of God’s rational creatures to profit withal; even those who were
so far convinced as to acknowledge its excellence, yet were almost
daily neglecting its reproofs, and turning aside from its teachings;
by which their understandings became darkened, and they were left in
a dwarfish unstable condition, without any solid ground of hope. The
subject spread, and my mind was led into a large arousing testimony,
setting forth the danger of such a state, and the fatal consequences
that would naturally and certainly follow such delinquency if continued
in. Truth prevailed, and many minds were sensibly bowed and affected by
its power, and a very general solemnity spread over the meeting, to the
praise of Him who is calling all his faithful and obedient children out
of darkness into his marvellous light. The rest of the week spent as
usual without occasion for any remark.
First day, the 10th. A peaceful quiet meeting to-day in silent waiting.
The rest of the week, except attending our meeting for sufferings and
preparative meeting on fifth day, was taken up in my outward business;
with a steady view to my religious engagement, that with all readiness
I might be prepared to embark therein when the full time arrived.
First day, the 17th. A silent meeting. This week was taken up
preparatory to my journey. Attended our monthly meeting on fifth day,
and feeling my mind drawn towards an opportunity with the people of
colour before I left home, I mentioned it to the meeting; and with the
unity of Friends, a meeting was appointed for them on the following
first day at the fourth hour in the afternoon. I also gave Friends of
Bethpage meeting information, that I felt my mind drawn to sit with
them in their meeting the next first day, and left them at liberty to
inform their neighbours thereof.
First day, the 24th. Agreeably to my prospect I attended Bethpage
meeting in the forenoon. It was large, and I think, greatly favoured
with the overshadowing wing of divine kindness. Truth rose into
dominion, and bowed the assembly by the prevalence of its power, for
which my spirit was made deeply thankful.
The meeting for the coloured people was held at the fourth hour, and
I was enabled to clear my mind among them, although it was a season
of hard labour. After this I felt my mind clear to set forward on my
intended journey.
Fourth day, the 27th of 8th month. I left home in the afternoon in
order to accomplish my contemplated visit to Friends and others, in
some parts of the yearly meetings of Philadelphia and Baltimore. My
son-in-law Valentine Hicks, accompanied me in the journey. Feeling my
mind drawn to attend the meeting of Friends at Flushing the next day,
we rode there and lodged. Notice being given in the neighbourhood of my
intention to be there, the meeting was large, and the Lord graciously
manifested himself to be near, and enabled me to discharge myself
faithfully among them under the feeling influence of gospel love. Many
hearts were contrited and truth appeared in dominion over all, for
which favour I was made reverently thankful, not only on my own account
and the account of those present, but especially so on account of my
dear family and friends at home, who gave me up with great reluctance
on account of my present bodily indisposition, being under the pressure
of a heavy cold and very hard cough, which, in their apprehensions,
rendered me unable to travel in so arduous a service until I might be
recovered therefrom. But the time appearing to be come for my setting
out, and the way appearing open, I considered it safest to cast my care
wholly upon Him in faith, who, I believed, had called me to the work;
and that as I continued to go forward, as he was graciously pleased to
open the way and make it clear before me, all would be well, whether it
terminated in life or in death.
The next day, being the sixth of the week, we had an appointed meeting
in Friends’ meeting-house, at the Kilns, in Newtown. The meeting there,
had been discontinued for a number of years, and now there was but one
member of our society left in the neighbourhood. There was, however, a
considerable number of people of other persuasions collected; and the
Lord graciously condescended to enable me to preach the gospel among
them, and to open divers doctrines of the Christian religion, suited
to their several conditions, in the demonstration of truth, for their
consideration and instruction. The people were very solemn and quiet;
and, I hope, the labour will not prove in vain, but be to some of them,
as bread cast upon the waters, gathered after many days. We rode, after
this meeting, to New-York, and rested on seventh day.
First day, the 31st. We attended Pearl-street meeting in the morning,
and that at Liberty-street, in the afternoon. They were both full
meetings; and, although I was still under considerable bodily
indisposition, yet, through condescending goodness, I was strengthened
to discharge myself faithfully in both opportunities, and felt peace
in my labours of love among them; being led in each meeting to declare
largely of the things concerning the kingdom of God, and to point out
to the people, in a clear manner, the way to peace and salvation.
On second day afternoon, we proceeded on our journey to Newark, a town
in New Jersey, where we attended a meeting at the fourth hour, previous
notice having been given in the town, of our coming. I had had several
meetings there before; but this was larger than usual for the place.
There is no member of our society residing in the town; the inhabitants
being principally of the Presbyterian order. All was quiet, and a
general solemnity spread over the meeting; and truth and its testimony
were raised into dominion. Surely, it is the Lord’s doing, and my
spirit was made gratefully thankful for the unmerited favour.
The next day we attended a meeting appointed for us in Elizabethtown.
Here, likewise, there is no member of our society. The meeting was
small, yet through condescending goodness it proved, I trust, a
comfortable instructive season to some present; and I parted with them
in peace of mind, the sure reward of faithfulness.
From this place, we rode home with our kind friend Henry Shotwell, of
Rahway, who met us here. The next day we attended Friends’ meeting at
Plainfield. Notice having been given that we intended to be there,
the meeting was large, in which the Lord’s power was manifested, and
his arm made bare for our help; and through which, way was made and
utterance given, to preach the glad tidings of life and salvation
to the people, in the demonstration of the spirit. Many hearts were
broken and contrited by the prevalence of its power. May the glory and
the praise be all ascribed to our gracious Helper, for such continued
mercy; for he only is worthy thereof, as nothing is due to the
creature, but blushing and confusion of face.
After this favoured meeting, we rode back, towards evening, to Rahway.
The next day, being the fifth of the week, we attended Friends’ meeting
there. The meeting was much enlarged by many of the neighbouring
inhabitants coming in, who were not members. Many gospel truths were
opened to their consideration, and its power ran as oil over the
assembly, silencing all opposition, and a perfect calm was witnessed
to spread over all. I have not often beheld such a perfect quiet; such
seasons are truly encouraging, and worthy of thanksgiving and praise to
the blessed Author of such unmerited favours.
On sixth day morning, we took leave of our kind friends at Rahway, and
rode to Mendham, alias, Randolph. The next day we had an appointed
meeting there, at the tenth hour, which proved a solemn, instructive
season. I left them with peace of mind, and proceeded that afternoon to
Hardwick. The following day being the first of the week, we attended
Friends’ meeting there. It was large for the place, as notice had
been given that we expected to be there. And, through heavenly help,
the gospel was preached in the demonstration of the spirit; and, by
the influence of its power, a general solemnity was spread over the
assembly, and many hearts were broken and contrited.
On second day we proceeded to Stroudsburgh, in Pennsylvania, where we
arrived about three o’clock in the afternoon. Here we had a meeting, by
appointment, the next day, at the third hour. It was well attended by
the Friends of that place, and many of the neighbouring inhabitants;
and was a very solid, instructive season. Surely, such unmerited
favours greatly enhance our obligations to our all-gracious Benefactor,
and tend to inspire the minds of his humble dependant children with
gratitude and thanksgiving.
From this place we proceeded to Richland, and attended Friends’ meeting
on fifth day. It was much enlarged by many who were not members
coming in. From thence we went to Plumbstead, where, by previous
appointment, we had a meeting the next day. Both these meetings were
seasons of favour. Surely, it is cause of deep humiliation, when we
consider the many sorrowful deviations which are obvious among us
from the simplicity and purity of our holy profession, and the great
want of faithfulness in the support of those noble testimonies given
us to bear, for the Prince of peace: yet, nevertheless, in the midst
of all our backslidings, the condescending goodness of our heavenly
Father is such, as to break the bread and distil the water of life,
often, on our gathered assemblies; satisfying the hungry and thirsty
soul, and causing his heavenly rain to descend on the thoughtless and
worldly-minded professors, whose hearts are like the dry and barren
ground, in order that they may be softened and rendered fit for the
seed of his heavenly kingdom to take root in and grow, to the praise of
his grace, and the glory of his great and excellent name.
From Plumbstead we proceeded to Buckingham, and rested on seventh day,
as I was still unwell with a cough, although much better than when I
left home. On first day we attended Friends’ meeting here, which was
large, and favoured with the overshadowings of the heavenly Father’s
regard, which caused the faithful to rejoice. On second day we rested
with our ancient and worthy friend, Oliver Paxton, who was under deep
bodily affliction, and appeared drawing fast towards his close. He
was lively in spirit, and cheerfully and patiently resigned to his
heavenly Master’s will. It was comfortable and instructive to be in
his company.
On third day we were at Solebury meeting, of which our aforesaid friend
was a member; and, although in much weakness and affliction of body,
he accompanied us thereto, and a blessed meeting we had. After this,
I parted with him in near unity of spirit, which was a final parting
to us, as to the body: for he lived but a short time after. He was an
elder and judge in Israel; and his memory will be precious to all the
living, who were acquainted with him, and knew his worth.
The three following days we attended meetings at Wright’s Town,
Makefield, and Newtown. These were all large, favoured meetings, in
which the power of truth was exalted over all opposition.
On seventh day we rested, and wrote to our families.
On first day, the 21st of 9th month, we attended Horsham meeting,
which was very large. Strength was afforded me to communicate to the
people, and open many gospel truths, to the relief of my own mind,
and, I trust, to the general satisfaction, comfort and instruction of
the assembly, which was composed of various denominations of professed
Christians, besides Friends.
Second and third days. We attended meetings at Upper Dublin and North
Wales. In both of these meetings the heavenly Father’s power and
presence were felt to preside, in an eminent degree, breaking down and
reducing by its blessed influence all opposing and contrary spirits,
and covering the assemblies with a precious solemnity, especially the
latter, in which, truth reigned triumphantly over all.
On fourth day we had an appointed meeting in a village called
Norristown. It was held in their court-house, there being only a few
scattered members of our society living in the place. The meeting was
pretty large, principally of people of other professions; among whom
was the chief judge, and several lawyers and priests. All were quiet,
and through the condescending goodness of the Shepherd of Israel, it
was, I trust and believe, to most present, a very instructive and
precious season.
Fifth and sixth days. We were at Friends’ meetings as they came in
course, at Plymouth and Providence. Notice having been given of our
coming, they were much enlarged by the attendance of the neighbours
who were not members. These were precious opportunities, in which
help was afforded to preach the gospel of life and salvation to the
people, accompanied with a power which broke down and subjected all
to its blessed influence; for which unmerited favour, the hearts of
the faithful were made to rejoice, and in deep humiliation, to return
thanksgiving and praise to the benevolent and gracious Author of all
our blessings.
On seventh day we rested at Charlestown. On first day attended the
meeting at that place, which was large, many more attending than the
house could contain. The three following days we attended meetings at
the Valley, Pikeland, and Nantmill. These were all precious meetings,
in which the Lord’s presence and power were manifested for our help.
On fifth day we proceeded to Columbia, a town situated on the east side
of the river Susquehannah. We had an appointed meeting there the next
day, in which truth prevailed; nevertheless, a hireling priest who
attended the meeting, afterwards made some objection to the doctrine
delivered, as it counteracted his traditional belief concerning the
atonement, the carnal ordinances of water baptism, and the outward
bread and wine, and preaching for hire, and the scriptures being the
only rule of faith and practice; the fallacy and inutility of all which
had been laid open and exposed. This roused his opposition; and indeed,
it is not to be wondered at, as it goes to overthrow all their craft,
by which they have their wealth.
We proceeded from thence to Little York, and rested on seventh day.
On first day, attended Friends’ meeting there. It was a pretty large,
favoured meeting, but not feeling my mind fully clear, I proposed
another meeting in the evening; and, notice being given accordingly,
it was very large, more than the house could contain. It was a blessed
meeting, in which the Lord’s presence and power were manifested, and
truth raised into dominion over all.
The four following days, we had meetings at Newbury, Warrington,
Huntington and Menallen. In these opportunities my mind was much
engaged to turn the attention of the people from man, and from all
dependance on any thing without them, to the inward principle of divine
light and truth, the great gospel minister; which, as it is heeded and
obeyed, leadeth into all truth, and out of all errour; and without
whose teaching, the true and saving knowledge of God and Christ, which
only brings eternal life to the soul, can never be obtained, although
we may be favoured to sit under the most powerful gospel ministry,
through the instrumentality of man, however divinely qualified to that
end, from youth to old age. For all that the best outward instrumental
help, either from reading the scriptures, or hearing the gospel
preached in the clear demonstration of the spirit, can do for any man,
is only to point to, and lead the minds of the children of men home to
this divine inward principle, manifested in their own hearts and minds.
These were all favoured, instructive seasons, worthy of grateful
remembrance.
From Menallen we rode to Baltimore, in order to attend the yearly
meeting at that place, where we arrived on sixth day evening, the
10th of 10th month. The yearly meeting of Ministers and Elders opened
the next day at the tenth hour, and the yearly meeting for discipline
at the tenth hour, on the following second day; and continued by
adjournments until the next sixth day at evening, when the meeting
closed under an evident sense of divine favour, and which had been
graciously extended through the several sittings of the meeting. I had
much general and particular service in the course of the meetings,
both in those for worship, and those for discipline; tending to gather
Friends’ minds, to an inward, faithful exercise for the support and
promotion of those noble testimonies, that we, as a people, are called
to bear for the Prince of Peace; and for the exaltation of truth and
righteousness in the earth. The Lord our gracious helper, by his
presence and power, manifested himself to be near, setting home the
doctrines delivered to his witness in the hearts of most present;
whereby Friends appeared generally to be united in spirit, and
comforted together under a renewed sense of the Lord’s goodness; and we
parted from each other with thankful hearts.
The meeting being ended, we left the city the next morning, in order
to take a few meetings which lay westerly, or southwesterly from this
place. We were out from the city about two weeks, and attended the
following meetings, viz: Pipe Creek, Bush Creek, Fairfax, Goose Creek,
South Fork, Alexandria, Washington, Sandy Spring, Indian Spring,
and Elk-Ridge. All favoured meetings, in which the Lord’s power and
presence were manifested for our help, enabling to preach the gospel in
the authority of truth, to the comfort and instruction of the honest
seekers, and rejoicing the hearts of the faithful, and administering
reproof and caution to the disobedient and ungodly, and to such as
are living at ease without God in the world. I felt sweet peace in my
labours of love among them.
After the latter meeting, we returned again to Baltimore on sixth day
afternoon, the 31st of 10th month. Here we continued until the 11th of
11th month, not only attending Friends’ usual meetings as they came in
course in the city, but likewise their monthly meetings, and quarterly
meeting, which were held during the time. In all of these I was led
into much exercise and religious labour, both in the ministry and in
the discipline and order of the Church. We had, likewise, during our
stay in the city, three very large, satisfactory evening meetings with
the citizens at large. Two were for the white people, and one for the
people of colour. I was led forth among them, and strengthened largely
to declare of the things concerning the kingdom of God, and to open
to their consideration divers important doctrines of the gospel, in
the authority and demonstration of truth, apparently to their general
satisfaction, and to the comfort and edification of my friends, and
the solid peace of my own mind. I then took leave of them, under the
precious uniting influence of the heavenly Father’s love, and the
covering of deep thankfulness and gratitude for the unmerited favour.
On third day, the 11th of the month, we left the city and proceeded to
a place called the Bush, where there is a small meeting of Friends.
The three following days we attended meetings at that place, at Deer
Creek, and East Nottingham, all favoured seasons. After the latter
meeting on seventh day, we proceeded to Wilmington, and attended
Friends’ meetings there the next day, both forenoon and afternoon,
in which truth favoured with ability to preach the gospel in the
demonstration of the spirit, suited, I trust, to the states of many, or
most, of the people which composed those large assemblies, and I left
them with peace of mind.
On second day I rode to London Grove, accompanied by my kind friend
William Poole of Brandywine, my companion being disposed to tarry a day
longer at Wilmington. On third day the quarterly meeting opened there
with a meeting of Ministers and Elders; in which I was led to open to
Friends of that meeting, the great obligations and accountability which
attached to those who consented to take seats in such meetings. For it
placed us in the front of society, and consequently we were looked to
as the leaders of the people; and therefore if we should fall short in
faithfully holding up those precious testimonies we are called to bear
for the Prince of Peace, and in leading forward the flock by advancing
the reformation as truth opens the way, we shall become stumbling
blocks in the way of the honest travellers, and thereby shut up their
way to improvement, by which they may be discouraged and fall back and
be lost; in consequence whereof it is to be feared, their blood might
be required at the hands of such unfaithful and dilatory shepherds. It
was an instructive searching opportunity, in which truth prevailed in
an humbling degree.
The next day was the meeting for discipline. It was also a very
favoured searching season, in which many of the hidden things of Esau
or the first nature were brought to light and exposed, and the careless
worldly-minded professors reproved, and the honest-hearted comforted
and encouraged.
After this, feeling a draft of love to those not in membership with
us, I proposed an opportunity for them the next day; and Friends
uniting therewith, a meeting was accordingly appointed. It was a
large gathering and mercifully owned by the Head of the Church, by
the gracious manifestation of his divine presence; under the blessed
influence of which, the gospel was preached in the demonstration of the
spirit, and I parted with them under a thankful sense of the Lord’s
mercy, accompanied with a peaceful mind, and rode that afternoon to
Concord.
On sixth day we rode to Darby and lodged with our kind friend Edward
Garrigues, who accompanied us the next morning to Philadelphia. Here
we continued about a week, attending Friends’ meetings in the city as
they came in course. As information of our coming had spread in the
town the meetings were greatly thronged, and at some places many more
than the houses could contain; people of varied professions, and some
of almost every description, high and low, appeared eager to attend.
It seemed a renewed visitation to the people in general, Friends and
others; and not only at meetings but in Friends’ families where we
visited, large numbers, especially of the younger classes, would soon
collect; so that those opportunities were made seasons of instruction
and edification. For the Lord, I believe, beheld them with a gracious
eye, and opened my heart and mouth in converse and communication, to
the comfort and satisfaction of their inquiring minds, and enabled
me in each meeting to communicate in the line of the gospel in large
impressive testimonies, affording instruction, comfort and edification
to the assemblies in general; and I felt a great power of love to flow
freely towards them, which caused my heart to rejoice, and I was made
glad in believing that it was the Lord’s doing, and it was marvellous
in mine eyes.
After I had got through Friends’ meetings, I felt my mind drawn to
have a public opportunity for those not of our society; and Friends
uniting therewith, it was concluded to be held on the evening of sixth
day. Friends apprehending that the numbers who would be desirous of
attending would be very great, it was appointed at Mulberry-street,
their largest house. As the notice was given at the monthly meeting
at that house, Friends likewise appointed a large committee of men
and women to have the oversight of its gathering, and to keep Friends
out until their neighbours should first have seats: but the number
that collected of other people was so great, that it was supposed as
many went away after the house was filled, and the yard around the
house as far as they could hear, as there was in the house. Every
avenue in the house was filled with people, standing as close as they
could crowd together. Such a collection of people I never saw together
before on any such occasion. It was with great difficulty that I got
into the meeting, and when I had taken my seat, in viewing the crowded
state of the multitude, I was ready to fear that the pressure of the
people upon one another would destroy the solemnity of the meeting;
but as I centered down to the gift, life and strength sprang up, and
faith was increased; and the Lord made bare his arm for our help, and
soon opened my mouth among them, which brought a precious calm over
the assembly. Indeed I could scarcely have thought it possible had I
not seen it, that such a large promiscuous multitude, made up almost
of every description of people, should in a few moments be brought
into such a perfect state of quiet and remain so for hours, until the
meeting closed; especially as in the midst of the meeting while I
was communicating, some ill advised persons, in order to disturb the
meeting, made a great cry of fire, rattling their engines along the
street near the house, but it had no tendency to break the solemnity
of the meeting. My heart and all that was alive within me, was bowed
in humble thankfulness to the Lord our gracious helper, for such a
marvellous and unmerited favour. As my whole man was filled with a flow
of heavenly love to the multitude, it was likewise very comfortable
to feel a mutual return from them, for all that could come near me
manifested it, both by conduct and converse; such a time I never
witnessed before: surely it was the Lord’s doing, and to him belongs
all the praise and glory of his own work, nothing due to the creature
but blushing and confusion of face. So let it be. Amen, saith my spirit.
After having got thus favourably through my service in the city, the
next morning I took an affectionate farewell of my friends there, in
much unity of spirit, and passed over the Delaware to Newtown, in
Jersey: where by previous appointment I had a meeting at the eleventh
hour. A considerable number of Friends accompanied me thither from
the city. Here we had another precious instructive meeting. The next
day being the first of the week, we attended Friends’ meeting at
Woodbury; and notice being spread of our intention of being there it
was unusually large; and through the condescending goodness of Him who
opens and none can shut, my heart and mouth were opened in a large
effective testimony, in which was opened to the people divers of the
most essential doctrines of Christianity, I trust, to the general
instruction and edification of those present, and to the comfort and
peace of my own mind.
The seven following days we attended meetings at Mullica Hill, Upper
Greenwich, Penn’s Neck, Piles Grove, Salem, Alloway’s Creek, and Lower
Greenwich. These were all large favoured meetings, particularly the
one at Salem; at which place the county court was then sitting, which
was adjourned by the judge in order to give the people generally an
opportunity to attend the meeting, which they did; the judge and
lawyers with the rest of the court also attended. The gospel was
preached to them and the doctrines of Christianity largely opened,
apparently to the satisfaction of all; and truth was raised into
dominion over all that was contrary to its blessed influence.
From the latter place we proceeded on second day, the 8th of 12th
month, to Morris River, alias Port Elizabeth, where we had a very
instructive edifying meeting the next day. The day following we rode
to Little Eggharbour; and the next day being the fifth of the week,
we attended Friends’ monthly meeting there. The meeting for worship
was favoured, and truth prevailed by way of testimony; and many gospel
truths were opened to the consideration of the people, whereby many
hearts were humbled and contrited.
The meeting for discipline was very weakly conducted. The order of
truth being at a low ebb with Friends of this place, and but little
hope of improvement, unless the younger classes in society come forward
in more faithfulness than their elder brethren have done. For most of
the few that are left appeared to be settling on their lees, without
any thought or prospect of advancing the noble testimonies we are
called to bear.
Our next meeting was at Barnegat: the day being rainy it was small,
yet a precious favoured season. The next day being the seventh of the
week we rode to Squan, and the two following days attended the meeting
at that place and at Squancum; but the weather being still rainy, these
were also small meetings: but the power of truth being present for our
help, rendered the opportunities instructive and edifying. After the
latter meeting we proceeded to Shrewsbury, and on third day, the 16th
of 12th month, we had an appointed meeting there which was large and
satisfactory. Many gospel truths were fully and clearly opened to the
apparent satisfaction, and, I trust, to the instruction and edification
of the assembly in general. It was a very solemn meeting, in which
truth was raised into dominion, humbling and contriting many hearts;
and which brought my religious labours in this journey to a peaceful
close.
After this, the three following days I passed directly home, and
found my dear wife, children, and grand-children in usual health, to
our mutual rejoicing. For this favour, together with the continued
evidence of the divine favour which had accompanied me in this journey,
strengthening and enabling me from day to day, faithfully to perform
the work and service the Lord had appointed me, my mind was impressed
with deep thankfulness and gratitude for the unmerited mercy.
Praise the Lord, O my soul! and forget not any of his benefits, for he
hath dealt bountifully with thee, and set thee above all thine enemies,
to the exaltation of his own glorious name and power; and who is God
over all, blessed for ever.