The Earth being the Work of a Divine Power, may not as such be accounted

unclean; but when Violence is committed thereon, and the Channel of

Righteousness so obstructed, that _in our Skirts are found the Blood of

the Souls of poor Innocents; not by a secret Search, but upon all

these_,[2] Jer. ii. 34.

[Footnote 2: See a _Caution and Warning to Great Britain and her

Colonies_ Page 31.]

When Blood shed unrighteously remains unatoned for, and the Inhabitants

are not effectually purged from it, when they do not wash their Hands in

Innocency, as was figured in the Law, in the Case of one being found

slain; but seek for Gain arising from Scenes of Violence and Oppression,

here the Land is polluted with Blood, _Deut_. xxi. 6.

Moreover, when the Earth is planted and tilled, and the Fruits brought

forth are applied to support unrighteous Purposes; here the gracious

Design of infinite Goodness, in these his Gifts being perverted, the

Earth is defiled; and the Complaint formerly uttered becomes applicable;

_Thou hast made me to serve with thy Sins; thou hast wearied me with

thine Iniquities_, Isaiah xliii. 24.

AN EPISTLE TO THE QUARTERLY AND MONTHLY MEETINGS OF FRIENDS.

By JOHN WOOLMAN.

_LONDON_:

Re-printed by MARY HINDE.

AN EPISTLE, &c.

Beloved Friends,--Feeling at this Time a renewed Concern that the pure

Principle of Light and Life, and the righteous Fruits thereof may spread

and prevail amongst Mankind, there is an Engagement on my Heart to

labour with my Brethren in religious Profession, that none of us may be

a Stumbling-block in the Way of others; but may so walk that our Conduct

may reach the pure Witness in the Hearts of such who are not in

Profession with us.

And, dear Friends, while we publickly own that the Holy Spirit is our

Leader, the Profession is in itself weighty, and the Weightiness thereof

increaseth in Proportion as we are noted among the Professors of Truth,

and active in dealing with such who walk disorderly.

Many under our Profession, for Want of due Attention, and a perfect

Resignation, to this Divine Teacher, have in some Things manifested a

Deviation from the Purity of our religious Principles, and these

Deviations having crept in amongst us by little and little, and

increasing from less to greater, have been so far unnoticed, that some

living in them, have been active in putting Discipline in Practice with

relation to others, whose Conduct hath appeared more dishonourable in

the World.

Now as my Mind hath been exercised before the Lord, I have seen, that

the Discipline of the Church of Christ standeth in that which is pure;

that it is the Wisdom from above which gives Authority to Discipline,

and that the Weightiness thereof standeth not in any outward

Circumstances, but in the Authority of Christ who is the Author of it;

and where any walk after the Flesh, and not according to the Purity of

Truth, and at the same Time are active in putting Discipline in

Practice, a Veil is gradually drawn over the Purity of Discipline, and

over that Holiness of Life, which Christ leads those into, _in whom, the

Love of God is verily perfected_, 1 John ii. 5.

When we labour in true Love with Offenders, and they remain obstinate,

it sometimes is necessary to proceed as far as our Lord directed; _Let

him be to thee as an heathen Man, or a Publican_, Mat. xviii. 17.

Now when such are disowned, and they who act therein feel Christ made

unto them Wisdom, and are preserved in his meek, restoring Spirit, there

is no just Cause of Offence ministered to any; but when such who are

active in dealing with Offenders, indulge themselves in Things which are

contrary to the Purity of Truth, and yet judge others whose Conduct

appears more dishonourable than theirs, here the pure Authority of

Discipline ceaseth as to such Offenders, and a Temptation is laid in

their Way to wrangle and contend;--_Judge not_, said our Lord, _that ye

be not Judged._ Now this forbidding alludes to Man's Judgment, and

points out the Necessity of our humbly attending to that sanctifying

Power, under which the Faithful experience the Lord to be _a Spirit of

Judgment to them_, Isa. xxviii. 6. And as we feel his Holy Spirit to

mortify the Deeds of the Body in us, and can say, _It is no more I that

live, but Christ that liveth in me_, here right Judgment is known.

And while Divine Love prevails in our Hearts, and Self in us is brought

under Judgment, a Preparation is felt to labour in a right Manner with

Offenders; but if we abide not in this Love, our outward Performance in

dealing with others, degenerates into Formality; for _this is the Love

of God, that we keep his Commandments_, John i. 3.

How weighty are those Instructions of our Redeemer concerning religious

Duties, when he points out, that they who pray, should be so obedient to

the Teachings of the Holy Spirit, that humbly confiding in his Help,

they may say, _Thy Name, O Father I be hallowed. Thy Kingdom come. Thy

Will be done on Earth, as it is in Heaven._--In this awful State of Mind

is felt that Worship which stands in doing the Will of God on Earth, as

it is done in Heaven, and keeping the Holy Name sacred: To take a Holy

Profession upon us is awful, nor can we keep his Holy Name sacred, but

by humbly abiding under the Cross of Christ. The Apostle laid a heavy

Complaint against some who prophaned this Holy Name by their Manner of

Living, _Through you_, he says, _the Name of God is blasphemed among

the_ Gentiles, _Rom._ ii. 24.

Some of our Ancestors, through many Tribulations, were gathered into the

State of true Worshippers, and had Fellowship in that which is pure; and

as one was inwardly moved to kneel down in their Assemblies, and

publickly call on the Name of the Lord, those in the Harmony of united

Exercise then present, joined in the Prayer: I mention this, in order

that we of the present Age, may look unto the Rock from whence we were

hewn, and remember that to unite in Worship, is an Union in Prayer, and

that Prayer acceptable to the Father, is only in a Mind truly

sanctified, where the sacred Name is kept Holy, and the Heart resigned

to do his Will on Earth, as it is done in Heaven; _If ye abide in me_,

saith Christ, _and my Words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will in

my Name, and it shall be done unto you._--Now we know not what to pray

for as we ought, but as the Holy Spirit doth open and direct our Minds,

and as we faithfully yield to its Influences, our Prayers are in the

Will of our Heavenly Father, who fails not to grant that which his own

Spirit, through his Children, asketh;--thus Preservation from Sin is

known, and the Fruits of Righteousness are brought forth by such who

inwardly unite in Prayer.

How weighty are our solemn Meetings when the Name of Christ is kept

Holy!

"How precious is that State in which the Children of the Lord are so

redeemed from the Love of this World, that they are accepted and blessed

in all that they do!" _R. Barclay's_ Apology, Page 404.

How necessary is it that we who profess these Principles, and are

outwardly active in supporting them, should faithfully abide in Divine

Strength, that _as he who has called us, is Holy, so we may be Holy in

all manner of Conversation_, 1 Pet. i. 15.

If one professing to be influenced by the Spirit of Christ, propose to

unite in a Labour to promote Righteousness in the Earth, and in Time

past he hath manifestly deviated from the Paths of Equity, then to act

consistent with this Principle, his first Work is to make Restitution so

far as he may be enabled; for if he attempts to contribute toward a Work

intended to promote Righteousness, while it appears that he neglecteth,

or refuseth to act righteously himself, his Conduct has a Tendency to

entangle the Minds of those who are weak in the Faith, who behold these

Things, and to draw a Veil over the Purity of Righteousness, by carrying

an Appearance as though that was Righteousness which is not.

Again, if I propose to assist in supporting those Doctrines wherein that

Purity of Life is held forth, in which Customs proceeding from the

Spirit of this World have no Place, and at the same Time strengthen

others in those Customs by my Example; the first Step then in an orderly

Proceeding, is to cease from those Customs myself, and afterwards to

labour, as I may be enabled, to promote the like Disposition and Conduct

in others.

To be convinced of the pure Principle of Truth, and diligently exercised

in walking answerable thereto, is necessary before I can consistently

recommend this Principle to others.--I often feel a Labour in Spirit,

that we who are active Members in religious Society, may experience in

ourselves the Truth of those Expressions of the Holy One; _I will be

sanctified in them that come nigh me_, Lev. x. 3.----In this Case, my

Mind hath been often exercised when alone, Year after Year, for many

Years, and in the Renewings of Divine Love, a tender Care hath been

incited in me, that we who profess the inward Principle of Light to be

our Teacher, may be a Family united in that Purity of Worship, which

comprehends a Holy Life, and ministers Instruction to others.

My Mind is often drawn towards Children in the Truth, who having a small

Share of the Things of this Life, and coming to have Families, may be

inwardly exercised before the Lord to support them in a Way agreeable to

the Purity of Truth, in which they may feel his Blessing upon them in

their Labours; the Thoughts of such being entangled with Customs,

contrary to pure Wisdom, conveyed to them through our Hands, doth often

very tenderly, and movingly affect my Heart, and when I look towards,

and think on the succeeding Generation, fervent Desires are raised in

me, that we by yielding to that Holy Spirit which leads into all Truth,

may not do the Work of the Lord deceitfully, may not live contrary to

the Purity of the Divine Principle we profess; but that as faithful

Labourers in our Age, we may be instrumental in removing

Stumbling-blocks out of the Way of those who may succeed us.

So great was the Love of Christ, that he gave himself for the Church,

_that he might sanctify and cleanse it, that it should be Holy, and

without Blemish, not having Spot or Wrinkle, or any such Thing_, Eph. v.

25. and where any take the Name of Christ upon them, professing to be

Members of his Church, and led by his Holy Spirit, and yet manifestly

deviate from the Purity of Truth, they herein act against the gracious

Design of his giving himself for them, and minister Cause for the

Continuance of his Afflictions, _viz._ in his Body the Church.

Christ suffered Afflictions in a Body of Flesh prepared by the Father,

but the Afflictions of his mystical Body are yet unfinished; for they

who are baptized into Christ are baptized into his Death; and as we

humbly abide under his sanctifying Power, and are brought forth into

Newness of Life, we feel Christ to live in us, who being the same

Yesterday, To-day, and forever, and always at Unity with himself, his

Spirit in the Hearts of his People leads to an inward Exercise for the

Salvation of Mankind; and when under a Travail of Spirit, we behold a

visited People entangled by the Spirit of the World with its Wickedness

and Customs, and thereby rendered incapable of being faithful Examples

to others, Sorrow and Heaviness under a Sense of these Things, is often

experienced, and thus in some Measure is filled up that which remains of

the Afflictions of Christ.

Our blessed Saviour speaking concerning Gifts offered in Divine Service,

says, _If thou bring thy Gift to the Altar, and there remembrest that

thy Brother hath ought against thee, leave there thy Gift before the

Altar, and go thy Way, first be reconciled to thy Brother, and then

come and offer thy Gift_, Mat. v. 23, 24. Now there is no true Unity,

but in that wherein the Father and the Son are united, nor can there be

a perfect Reconciliation but in ceasing from that which ministers Cause

for the Continuation of the Afflictions of Christ; and if any professing

to bring their Gift to the Altar, do remember the customary

Contradiction which some of their Fruits bear to the pure spiritual

Worship, here it appears necessary to lay to Heart this Command, _Leave

thy Gift by the Altar_.

Christ graciously calls his People Brethren; _Whosoever shall do the

Will of God, the same is my Brother_, Mark iii. 35. Now if we walk

contrary to the Truth as it is in Jesus, while we continue to profess

it, we offend against Christ, and if under this Offence we bring our

Gift to the Altar, our Redeemer doth not direct us to take back our

Gift, he doth not discourage our proceeding in a good Work; but

graciously points out the necessary Means by which the Gift may be

rendered acceptable, _Leave_, saith he, _thy Gift by the Altar, first go

and be reconciled to thy Brother_, cease from that which grieves the

Holy Spirit, cease from that which is against the Truth, as it is in

Jesus, and then come and offer thy Gift.

I feel, while I am writing, a Tenderness to those who through Divine

Favour are preserved in a lively Sense of the State of the Churches, and

at Times may be under Discouragements with regard to proceeding in that

pure Way which Christ by his Holy Spirit leads into: The Depth of

Disorder and Weakness, which so much prevails, being opened, Doubtings

are apt to arise as to the Possibility of proceeding as an Assembly of

the Lord's People in the pure Council of Truth; and here I feel a

Concern to express in Uprightness, that which hath been opened in my

Mind, under the Power of the Cross of Christ, relating to a visible

gathered Church, the Members whereof are guided by the Holy Spirit.

The Church is called _the Body of Christ_, Col. i. 24.

Christ is called _the Head of the Church_, Eph. i. 22.

The Church is called _the Pillar, and Ground of Truth_, 1 Tim. iii. 15.

Thus the Church hath a Name that is sacred, and the Necessity of keeping

this Name Holy, appears evident; for where a Number of People unite in a

Profession of being led by the Spirit of Christ, and publish their

Principles to the World, the Acts and Proceedings of that People may in

some Measure be considered as such which Christ is the Author of.

Now while we stand in this Station, if the pure Light of Life is not

followed and regarded in our Proceedings, we are in the Way of

prophaning the Holy Name, and of going back toward that Wilderness of

Sufferings and Persecution, out of which, through the tender Mercies of

God, a Church hath been gathered; _Christ liveth in sanctified Vessels_,

Gal. ii. 20. and where they behold his Holy Name prophaned, and the pure

Gospel Light eclipsed, through the Unfaithfulness of any who by their

Station appear to be Standard-bearers under the Prince of Peace, the

living Members in the Body of Christ in beholding these Things, do in

some degree experience the Fellowship of his Sufferings; and as the

Wisdom of the World more and more takes Place in conducting the Affairs

of this visible gathered Church, and the pure Leadings of the Holy

Spirit less waited for and followed, so the true Suffering Seed is more

and more oppressed.

My Mind is often affected with a Sense of the Condition of

sincere-hearted People in some Kingdoms, where Liberty of Conscience is

not allowed, many of whom being burthened in their Minds with prevailing

Superstition joined with Oppressions, are often under Sorrow; and where

such have attended to that pure Light which hath in some degree opened

their Understandings, and for their Faithfulness thereto, have been

brought to Examination and Trial, how heavy are the Persecutions which

in divers Parts of the World are exercised upon them! How mighty, as to

the outward, is that Power by which they are borne down, and oppressed!

How deeply affecting is the Condition of many upright-hearted People who

are taken into the _Papal_ Inquisition! What lamentable Cruelties, in

deep Vaults, in a private Way, are exercised on many of them! And how

lingering is that Death by a small slow Fire, which they have

frequently indured, who have been faithful to the End!

How many tender spirited _Protestants_ have been sentenced to spend the

Remainder of their Lives in a Galley chained to Oars, under hard-hearted

Masters, while their young Children are placed out for Education, and

taught Principles so contrary to the Conscience of the Parents, that by

dissenting from them, they have hazarded their Liberty, Lives, and all

that was dear to them of the Things of this World!

There have been in Time past severe Persecutions under the _English_

Government, and many sincere-hearted People have suffered Death for the

Testimony of a good Conscience, whose Faithfulness in their Day hath

ministred Encouragement to others, and been a Blessing to many who have

succeeded them; thus from Age to Age, the Darkness being more and more

removed, a Channel at length, through the tender Mercies of God, hath

been opened for the Exercise of the pure Gift of the Gospel Ministry,

without Interruption from outward Power, a Work, the like of which is

rare, and unknown in many Parts of the World.

As these Things are often fresh in my Mind, and this great Work of God

going on in the Earth has been open before me, that Liberty of

Conscience with which we are favoured, hath appeared not as a light

Matter.

A Trust is committed to us, a great and weighty Trust, to which our

diligent Attention is necessary, wherever the active Members of this

visible gathered Church use themselves to that which is contrary to the

Purity of our Principles, it appears to be a Breach of this Trust, and

one Step back toward the Wilderness, one Step towards undoing what God

in infinite Love hath done through his faithful Servants, in a Work of

several Ages, and like laying the Foundation for future Sufferings.

I feel a living Invitation in my Mind to such who are active in our

religious Society, that we may lay to Heart this Matter, and consider

the Station in which we stand; a Place of outward Liberty under the free

Exercise of our Conscience toward God, not obtained but through great

and manifold Afflictions of those who lived before us. There is

Gratitude due from us to our Heavenly Father, and Justice to our

Posterity; can our Hearts endure, or our Hands be strong, if we desert a

Cause so precious, if we turn aside from a Work, under which so many

have patiently laboured?

May the deep Sufferings of our Saviour be so dear to us, that we may

never trample under Foot the adorable Son of God, nor count the Blood of

the Covenant unholy!

May the Faithfulness of the Martyrs when the Prospect of Death by Fire

was before them, be remembred. And may the patient constant Sufferings

of the upright-hearted Servants of God in latter Ages be revived in our

Minds. And may we so follow on to know the Lord, that neither the

Faithful in this Age, nor those in Ages to come, may ever be brought

under Suffering, through our sliding back from the Work of Reformation

in the World.

While the active Members in the visible gathered Church stand upright,

and the Affairs thereof are carried on under the Leadings of the Holy

Spirit, although Disorders may arise among us, and cause many Exercises

to those who feel the Care of the Churches upon them; yet while these

continue under the Weight of the Work, and labour in the Meekness of

Wisdom for the Help of others, the Name of Christ in the visible

gathered Church may be kept sacred; but while they who are active in the

Affairs of this Church, continue in a manifest Opposition to the Purity

of our Principles, this, as the Prophet _Isaiah_ x. 18. expresseth it,

is like _as when a Standard-bearer fainteth_; and thus the Way opens to

great and prevailing Degeneracy, and to Sufferings for such who through

the Power of Divine Love, are separated to the Gospel of Christ, and

cannot unite with any Thing which stands in Opposition to the Purity of

it.

The Necessity of an inward Stillness, hath under these Exercises

appeared clear to my Mind; in true Silence Strength is renewed, the Mind

herein is weaned from all Things, but as they may be enjoyed in the

Divine Will, and a Lowliness in outward Living opposite to Worldly

Honour, becomes truly acceptable to us;--in the Desire after outward

Gain, the Mind is prevented from a perfect Attention to the Voice of

Christ, but being weaned from all Things, but as they may be enjoyed in

the Divine Will, the pure Light shines into the Soul, and where the

Fruits of that Spirit which is of the World, are brought forth by many

who profess to be led by the Spirit of Truth, and Cloudiness is felt to

be gathering over the visible gathered Church, the Sincere in Heart who

abide in true Stillness, and are exercised therein before the Lord for

his Name's Sake, have a Knowledge of Christ in the Fellowship of his

Sufferings, and inward Thankfulness is felt at Times, that through

Divine Love, our own Wisdom is cast out, and that forward active Part in

us subjected, which would rise and do something in the visible gathered

Church, without, the pure Leadings of the Spirit of Christ.

While aught remains in us different from a perfect Resignation of our

Wills, it is like a Seal to a Book wherein is written, _that good, and

acceptable, and perfect Will of God concerning us_, Rom. xii. 2. but

when our Minds entirely yield to Christ, that Silence is known, which

followeth the opening of the last of the Seals, _Rev._ viii. 1. In this

Silence we learn abiding in the Divine Will, and there feel, that we

have no Cause to promote but that only in which the Light of Life

directs us in our Proceedings, and that the alone Way to be useful in

the Church of Christ, is to abide faithfully under the Leadings of his

Holy Spirit in all Cases, and being preserved thereby in Purity of

Heart, and Holiness of Conversation, a Testimony to the Purity of his

Government may be held forth through us, to others.

As my Mind hath been thus exercised, I have seen that to be active and

busy in the visible gathered Church, without the Leadings of the Holy

Spirit, is not only unprofitable, but tends to increase Dimness; and

where Way is not opened to proceed in the Light of Truth, a Stop is felt

by those who humbly attend to the Divine Leader, a Stop which in

relation to good Order in the visible gathered Church, is of the

greatest Consequence to be observed; thus _Robert Barclay_ in his

Treatise on Discipline holds forth, Page 65, 68, 84. "That the Judgment

or Conclusion of the Church or Congregation, is no further effectual as

to the true End and Design thereof, but as such Judgment or Conclusion

proceeds from the Spirit of God operating on their Minds who are

sanctified in Christ Jesus."

Now in this Stop I have learned the Necessity of waiting on the Lord in

Humility, that the Works of all may be brought to the Light, and those

to Judgment which are wrought in the Wisdom of this World; and have also

seen, that in a Mind thoroughly subjected to the Power of the Cross,

there is a Savour of Life to be felt, which evidently tends to gather

Souls to God, while the greatest Works in the visible gathered Church

brought forth in Man's Wisdom, remain to be unprofitable.

Where People are divinely gathered into a Holy Fellowship, and

faithfully abide under the Influence of that Spirit which leads into all

Truth, _they are the Light of the World_, Mat. v. 14. Now holding this

Profession, to me hath appeared weighty, even beyond what I can fully

express, and what our blessed Lord seemed to have in View, when he

proposed the Necessity of counting the Cost, before we begin to build.

I trust there are many who at Times, under Divine Visitation, feel an

inward Enquiry after God; and when such in the Simplicity of their

Hearts mark the Lives of a People, who profess to walk by the Leadings

of his Spirit, of what great Concernment is it that our Lights shine

clear, that nothing of our Conduct carry a Contradiction to the Truth as

it is in Jesus, or be a Means of prophaning his Holy Name, and be a

Stumbling-block in the Way of those sincere Enquirers!

When such Seekers, who wearied with empty Forms, look toward uniting

with us as a People, and behold active Members among us depart in their

customary Way of Living, from that Purity of Life, which under humbling

Exercises hath been opened before them, as the Way of the Lord's People,

how mournful and discouraging is the Prospect! And how strongly doth

such Unfaithfulness operate against the Spreading of the peaceable,

harmonious Principle, and Testimony of Truth amongst Mankind!

In entering into that Life, which is hid with Christ in God, we behold

his peaceable Government, where the whole Family are governed by the

same Spirit, and the _doing to others as we would they should do unto

us_, groweth up as good Fruit from a good Tree; the Peace, Quietness,

and harmonious Walking in this Government is beheld with humble

Reverence to him who is the Author of it; and in partaking of the Spirit

of Christ, we partake of that which labours, and suffers for the

Increase of this peaceable Government among the Inhabitants of the

World; and I have felt a Labour of long Continuance, that we, who

profess this peaceable Principle, may be faithful Standard-bearers under

the Prince of Peace, and that nothing of a defiling Nature, tending to

Discord and Wars, may remain among us.

May each of us query with ourselves, have the Treasures I possess been

gathered in that Wisdom which is from above, so far as hath appeared to

me?

Have none of my Fellow Creatures an equitable Right to any Part which is

called mine?

Have the Gifts, and Possessions received by me from others, been

conveyed in a Way free from all Unrighteousness, so far as I have seen?

The Principle of Peace in which our Trust is only in the Lord, and our

Minds weaned from a Dependance on the Strength of Armies, hath appeared

to me very precious, and I often feel strong Desires, that we who

profess this Principle, may so walk, as to give just Cause for none of

our Fellow Creatures to be offended at us; that our Lives may evidently

manifest, that we are redeemed from that Spirit in which Wars are. Our

blessed Saviour in pointing out the Danger of so leaning on Man, as to

neglect the Leadings of his Holy Spirit, said, _Call no Man your Father

upon the Earth; for one is your Father which is in Heaven_, Mat. xxiii.

9. Where the Wisdom from above is faithfully followed, and therein we

are entrusted with Substance, it is a Treasure committed to our Care in

the Nature of an Inheritance, as an Inheritance from him, who formed,

and supports the World. Now in this Condition the true Enjoyment of the

good Things of this Life is understood, and that Blessing felt, in which

is real Safety; this is what I apprehend our blessed Lord had in View,

when he pronounced, _Blessed are the Meek, for they shall inherit the

Earth_.

Selfish Worldly-minded Men may hold Lands in the selfish Spirit, and

depending on the Strength of the outward Power, be perplexed with secret

Uneasiness, lest the Injured should sometime overpower them, and that

Measure meted to them, which they measure to others. Thus selfish Men

may possess the Earth; but it is the Meek who inherit it, and enjoy it

as an Inheritance from the Heavenly Father, free from all the

Defilements, and Perplexities of Unrighteousness.

Where Proceedings have been in that Wisdom which is from beneath, and

inequitable Gain gathered by a Man, and left as a Gift to his Children,

who being entangled by the same Worldly Spirit, have not attained to

that Clearness of Light in which the Channels of Righteousness are

opened, and Justice done to those who remain silent under Injuries: Here

I have seen under humbling Exercise of Mind, that the Sins of the

Fathers are embraced by the Children, and become their Sins, and thus of

the Days of Tribulation, the Iniquities in the Fathers are visited upon

these Children, who take hold of the Unrighteousness of their Fathers,

and live in that Spirit in which those Iniquities were committed; to

which agreeth the Prophecy of _Moses_, concerning a rebellious People;

_They that are left of you shall pine away in their Iniquities, in your

Enemy's Land, and in the Iniquities of their Fathers shall they pine

away_, Lev. xxvi. 39. and our blessed Lord in beholding the Hardness of

Heart in that Generation, and feeling in himself, that they lived in the

same Spirit in which the Prophets had been persecuted unto Death,

signified, _That the Blood of all the Prophets which was shed from the

Foundation of the World, should be required of that Generation, from the

Blood of_ Abel, _unto the Blood of_ Zacharias, _who perished between the

Altar and the Temple_, Luke xi. 51.

Tender Compassion fills my Heart towards my Fellow Creatures estranged

from the harmonious Government of the Prince of Peace, and a Labour

attends me, that they may be gathered to this peaceable Habitation.

In being inwardly prepared to suffer Adversity for Christ's Sake, and

weaned from a Dependance on the Arm of Flesh, we feel, that there is a

Rest for the People of God, and that it stands in a perfect Resignation

of ourselves to his Holy Will; in this Condition, all our Wants and

Desires are bounded by pure Wisdom, and our Minds wholly attentive to

the Counsel of Christ inwardly communicated, which hath appeared to me

as a Habitation of Safety for the Lord's People, in Times of outward

Commotion and Trouble, and Desires from the Fountain of pure Love, are

opened in me, to invite my Brethren and Fellow Creatures to feel for,

and seek after that which gathers the Mind into it.

JOHN WOOLMAN.

MOUNT-HOLLY, NEW-JERSEY,

_4th Month 1772_.

REMARKS ON SUNDRY SUBJECTS.

By JOHN WOOLMAN.

_LONDON_:

Printed by MARY HINDE.

REMARKS &c.

CHAPTER I

_On loving our Neighbours as ourselves_

When we love the Lord with all our Hearts, and his Creatures in his

Love, we are then preserv'd in Tenderness both toward Mankind and the

Animal Creation; but if another Spirit gets Room in our Minds, and we

follow it in our Proceedings, we are then in the Way of disordering the

Affairs of Society.

If a Man successful in Business expends Part of his Income in Things of

no real Use, while the Poor employed by him pass through great

Difficulties in getting the Necessaries of Life, this requires his

serious Attention.

If several principal Men in Business unite in setting the Wages of those

who work for Hire, and therein have Regard to a Profit to themselves

answerable to unnecessary Expence in their Families, while the Wages of

the other on a moderate Industry will not afford a comfortable Living

for their Families, and a proper Education for their Children, this is

like laying a Temptation in the Way of some to strive for a Place higher

than they are in, when they have not Stock sufficient for it.

Now I feel a Concern in the Spring of pure Love, that all who have

Plenty of outward Substance, may Example others in the right Use of

Things; may carefully look into the Condition of poor People, and beware

of exacting on them with Regard to their Wages.

While hired Labourers, by moderate Industry, through the Divine

Blessing, may live comfortably, raise up Families, and give them

suitable Education, it appears reasonable for them to be content with

their Wages.

If they who have Plenty love their Fellow Creatures in that Love which

is Divine, and in all their Proceedings have an equal Regard to the Good

of Mankind universally, their Place in Society is a Place of Care, an

Office requiring Attention, and the more we possess, the greater is our

Trust, and with an Increase of Treasure, an Increase of Care becomes

necessary.

When our Will is subject to the Will of God, and in relation to the

Things of this World, we have nothing in View, but a comfortable Living

equally with the rest of our Fellow Creatures, then outward Treasures

are no farther desirable than as we feel a Gift in our Minds equal to

the Trust, and Strength to act as dutiful Children in his Service, who

hath formed all Mankind, and appointed a Subsistence for us in this

World.

A Desire for Treasures on any other Motive, appears to be against that

Command of our blessed Saviour, _Lay not up for yourselves Treasures

here on Earth_, Mat. vi. 19.

He forbids not laying up in the Summer against the Wants of Winter; nor

doth he teach us to be slothful in that which properly relates to our

being in this World; but in this Prohibition he puts in _yourselves_,

_Lay not up for_ yourselves _Treasures here on Earth_.

Now in the pure Light, this Language is understood, for in the Love of

Christ there is no Respect of Persons; and while we abide in his Love,

we live not to _ourselves_, but to him who died for us. And as we are

thus united in Spirit to Christ, we are engaged to labour in promoting

that Work in the Earth for which he suffer'd.

In this State of Mind our Desires are, that every honest Member in

Society may have a Portion of Treasure, and Share of Trust, answerable

to that Gift, with which our Heavenly Father hath gifted us.

In great Treasure, there is a great Trust. A great Trust requireth great

Care. But the laborious Mind wants Rest.

A pious Man is content to do a Share of Business in Society, answerable

to the Gifts with which he is endowed, while the Channels of Business

are free from Unrighteousness, but is careful lest at any Time his Heart

be over-charg'd.

In the harmonious Spirit of Society _Christ is all in all_, Col. iii.

11.

Here it is that _old Things are past away, all Things are new, all

Things are of God_, 2 Cor. v. 17, 18, and the Desire for outward Riches

is at an End.

They of low Degree who have small Gifts, enjoy their Help who have large

Gifts; those with their small Gifts, have a small degree of Care, while

these with their large Gifts, have a large degree of Care: And thus to

abide in the Love of Christ, and enjoy a comfortable Living in this

World is all that is aimed at by those Members in Society, to whom

Christ is made Wisdom and Righteousness.

But when they who have much Treasure, are not faithful Stewards of the

Gifts of God, great Difficulties attend it.

Now this Matter hath deeply affected my Mind. The Lord, through merciful

Chastisements, hath given me a Feeling of that Love, in which the

Harmony of Society standeth, and a Sight of the Growth of that Seed

which bringeth forth Wars and great Calamities in the World, and a

Labour attends me to open it to others.

Now to act with Integrity, according to that Strength of Mind and Body

with which our Creator hath endowed each of us, appears necessary for

all, and he who thus stands in the lowest Station, appears to be

entitled to as comfortable and convenient a Living, as he whose Gifts of

Mind are greater, and whose Cares are more extensive.

If some endowed with strong Understandings as Men, abide not in the

harmonious State, in which we _love our Neighbours as ourselves_, but

walk in that Spirit in which the Children of this World are wise in

their Generation; these by the Strength of Contrivance may sometimes

gather great Treasure, but the Wisdom of this World is Foolishness with

God; and if we gather Treasures in Worldly Wisdom, we lay up _Treasures

for ourselves_; and great Treasures managed in any other Spirit, than

the Spirit of Truth, disordereth the Affairs of Society, for hereby the

good Gifts of God in this outward Creation are turned into the Channels

of Worldly Honour, and frequently applied to support Luxury, while the

Wages of poor Labourers are such, that with moderate Industry and

Frugality they may not live comfortably, raise up Families, and give

them suitable Education, but through the Streightness of their

Condition, are often drawn on to labour under Weariness, to toil through

Hardships themselves, and frequently to oppress those useful Animals

with which we are intrusted.

From Age to Age, throughout all Ages, Divine Love is that alone, in

which Dominion has been, is, and will be rightly conducted.

In this the Endowments of Men are so employed, that the Friend and the

Governor are united in one, and oppressive Customs come to an End.

Riches in the Hands of Individuals in Society, is attended with some

degree of Power; and so far as Power is put forth separate from pure

Love, so far the Government of the Prince of Peace is interrupted; and

as we know not that our Children after us will dwell in that State in

which Power is rightly applied, to lay up Riches for them appears to be

against the Nature of his Government.

The Earth, through the Labour of Men under the Blessing of him who

formed it, yieldeth a Supply for the Inhabitants from Generation to

Generation, and they who walk in the pure Light, their Minds are

prepared to taste and relish not only those Blessings which are

spiritual, but also feel a Sweetness and Satisfaction in a right Use of

the good Gifts of God in the visible Creation.

Here we see that Man's Happiness stands not in great Possessions, but in

a Heart devoted to follow Christ, in that Use of Things, where Customs

contrary to universal Love have no Power over us.

In this State our Hearts are prepared to trust in God, and our Desires

for our Children and Posterity are, that they, with the rest of Mankind,

in Ages to come, may be of that Number, of whom he hath said, _I will be

a Father to them, and they shall be my Sons and Daughters_, 2 Cor. vi.

18.

When Wages in a fruitful Land bear so small a Proportion to the

Necessaries of Life, that poor honest People who have Families cannot

by a moderate Industry attain to a comfortable Living, and give their

Children sufficient Learning, but must either labour to a degree of

Oppression, or else omit that which appears to be a Duty.

While this is the Case with the Poor, there is an Inclination in the

Minds of most People, to prepare at least so much Treasure for their

Children, that they with Care and moderate Industry may live free from

these Hardships which the Poor pass through.

Now this Subject requireth our serious Consideration: To labour that our

Children may be put in a Way to live comfortably, appears in itself to

be a Duty, so long as these our Labours are consistent with universal

Righteousness; but if in striving to shun Poverty, we do not walk in

that State where _Christ is our Life_, then we wander; _He that hath the

Son, hath Life_, 1 John v. 12. _This Life is the Light of Men_, 1 John

1. 4. If we walk not in this Light, we walk in Darkness, and _he that

walketh in Darkness, knoweth not whither he goeth_, John xii. 35.

To keep to right Means in labouring to attain a right End is necessary:

If in striving to shun Poverty, we strive only in that State where

Christ is the Light of our Life, our Labours will stand in the true

Harmony of Society; but if People are confident that the End aimed at is

good, and in this Confidence pursue it so eagerly, as not to wait for

the Spirit of Truth to lead them, then they come to Loss. _Christ is

given to be a Leader and Commander of the People_, Isaiah lv. 4. Again;

_The Lord shall guide thee continually_, Isaiah lviii. 12. Again; _Lord,

thou wilt ordain Peace for us, for thou also hast wrought all our Works

in us_, Isaiah xxvi. 12.

_In the Lord have we Righteousness and Strength_, Isaiah xlv. 24.

In this State our Minds are preserved watchful in following the Leadings

of his Spirit in all our Proceedings in this World, and a Care is felt

for a Reformation in general. That our own Posterity, with the rest of

Mankind in succeeding Ages, may not be entangled by oppressive Customs,

transmitted to them through our Hands; but if People in the Narrowness

of natural Love, are afraid that their Children will be oppressed by

the Rich, and through an eager Desire to get Treasures, depart from the

pure Leadings of Truth in one Case, though it may seem to be a small

Matter, yet the Mind even in that small Matter may be embolden'd to

continue in a Way of Proceeding, without waiting for the Divine Leader.

Thus People may grow expert in Business, wise in the Wisdom of this

World, retain a fair Reputation amongst Men, and yet being Strangers to

the Voice of Christ, the safe Leader of his Flock, the Treasures thus

gotten, may be like Snares to the Feet of their Posterity.

Now to keep faithful to the pure Counsellor, and under trying

Circumstances suffer Adversity for Righteousness Sake, in this there is

a Reward.

If we, being poor, are hardly dealt with by those who are rich, and

under this Difficulty are frugal and industrious, and in true Humility

open our Case to them who oppress us, this may reach the pure Witness in

their Minds; and though we should remain under Difficulties as to the

outward, yet if we abide in the Love of Christ, all will work for our

Good.

When we feel what it is to suffer in the true suffering State, then we

experience the Truth of those Expressions, that, _as the Sufferings of

Christ abound in us, so our Consolation aboundeth by Christ_, 2 Cor. i.

5.

But if poor People who are hardly dealt with, do not attain to the true

suffering State, do not labour in true Love with those who deal hardly

with them, but envy their outward Greatness, murmur in their Hearts

because of their own Poverty, and strive in the Wisdom of this World to

get Riches for themselves and their Children; this is like wandering in

the Dark.

If we who are of a middle Station between Riches and Poverty, are

affected at Times with the Oppressions of the Poor, and feel a tender

Regard for our Posterity after us, O how necessary is it that we wait

for the pure Counsel of Truth!

Many have seen the Hardships of the Poor, felt an eager Desire that

their Children may be put in a Way to escape these Hardships; but how

few have continued in that pure Love which openeth our Understandings to

proceed rightly under these Difficulties!

How few have faithfully followed that Holy Leader who prepares his

People to labour for the Restoration of true Harmony amongst our Fellow

Creatures!

_In the pure Gospel Spirit we walk by Faith and not by Sight_, 2 Cor. v.

7.

In the Obedience of Faith we die to the Narrowness of Self-love, and our

Life being hid with Christ in God, our Hearts are enlarg'd toward

Mankind universally; but in departing from the true Light of Life, many

in striving to get Treasures have stumbled upon the dark Mountains.

Now that Purity of Life which proceeds from Faithfulness in following

the Spirit of Truth, that State where our Minds are devoted to serve

God, and all our Wants are bounded by his Wisdom, this Habitation has

often been open'd before me as a Place of Retirement for the Children of

the Light, where we may stand separated from that which disordereth and

confuseth the Affairs of Society, and where we may have a Testimony of

our Innocence in the Hearts of those who behold us.

Through departing from the Truth as it is in Jesus, through introducing

Ways of Life attended with unnecessary Expences, many Wants have arisen,

the Minds of People have been employ'd in studying to get Wealth, and in

this Pursuit some departing from Equity, have retain'd a Profession of

Religion; others have look'd at their Example, and thereby been

strengthen'd to proceed further in the same Way: Thus many have

encourag'd the Trade of taking Men from _Africa_, and selling them as

Slaves.

It hath been computed that near One Hundred Thousand Negroes have of

late Years been taken annually from that Coast, by Ships employed in the

_English_ Trade.

As I have travell'd on religious Visits in some Parts of _America_, I

have seen many of these People under the Command of Overseers, in a

painful Servitude.

I have beheld them as _Gentiles_ under People professing _Christianity_,

not only kept ignorant of the Holy Scriptures, but under great

Provocations to Wrath; of whom it may truly be said, _They that rule

over them make them to howl, and the Holy Name is abundantly

blasphemed_, Isaiah lii. 5.

Where Children are taught to read the Sacred Writings, while young, and

exampled in Meekness and Humility, it is often helpful to them; nor is

this any more than a Debt due from us to a succeeding Age.

But where Youth are pinched for want of the Necessaries of Life, forced

to labour hard under the harsh Rebukes of rigorous Overseers, and many

Times endure unmerciful Whippings: In such an Education, how great are

the Disadvantages they lie under! And how forcibly do these Things work

against the Increase of the Government of the Prince of Peace!

_Humphrey Smith_, in his Works, p. 125, speaking of the tender Feelings

of the Love of God in his Heart when he was a Child, said, "By the

violent wrathful Nature that ruled in others, was my Quietness

disturbed, and Anger begotten in me toward them, yet that of God in me

was not wholly overcome, but his Love was felt in my Heart, and great

was my Grief when the Earthly-mindedness and wrathful Nature so provoked

me, that I was estranged from it.

"And this I write as a Warning to Parents and others, that in the Fear

of the living God, you may train up the Youth, and may not be a Means of

bringing them into such Alienation."

Many are the Vanities and Luxuries of the present Age, and in labouring

to support a Way of living conformable to the present World, the

Departure from that Wisdom that is pure and peaceable hath been great.

Under the Sense of a deep Revolt, and an overflowing Stream of

Unrighteousness, my Life has been often a Life of Mourning, and tender

Desires are raised in me, that the Nature of this Practice may be laid

to Heart.

I have read some Books wrote by People who were acquainted with the

Manner of getting Slaves in _Africa_.

I have had verbal Relations of this Nature from several Negroes brought

from _Africa_, who have learn'd to talk _English_.

I have sundry Times heard _Englishmen_ speak on this Subject, who have

been at _Africa_ on this Business; and from all these Accounts it

appears evident that great Violence is committed, and much Blood shed in

_Africa_ in getting Slaves.

When three or four Hundred Slaves are put in the Hold of a Vessel in a

hot Climate, their Breathing soon affects the Air. Were that Number of

free People to go Passengers with all Things proper for their Voyage,

there would Inconvenience arise from their Number; but Slaves are taken

by Violence, and frequently endeavour to kill the white People, that

they may return to their Native Land. Hence they are frequently kept

under some Sort of Confinement, by Means of which a Scent ariseth in the

Hold of a Ship, and Distempers often break out amongst them, of which

many die. Of this tainted Air in the Hold of Ships freighted with

Slaves, I have had several Accounts, some in Print, and some verbal, and

all agree that the Scent is grievous. When these People are sold in

_America_, and in the Islands, they are made to labour in a Manner more

servile and constant, than that which they were used to at Home, that

with Grief, with different Diet from what has been common with them, and

with hard Labour, some Thousands are computed to die every Year, in what

is called the Seasoning.

Thus it appears evident, that great Numbers of these People are brought

every Year to an untimely End; many of them being such who never injured

us.

When the Innocent suffer under hard-hearted Men, even unto Death, and

the Channels of Equity are so obstructed, that the Cause of the

Sufferers is not judged in Righteousness, _the Land is polluted with

Blood_, Numb. xxxv. 33.

When Blood hath been shed unrighteously, and remains unatoned for, the

Cry thereof is very piercing.

Under the humbling Dispensations of Divine Providence, this Cry hath

deeply affected my Heart, and I feel a Concern to open, as I may be

enabled, that which lieth heavy on my Mind.

When _the Iniquity of the House of_ Israel _and of_ Judah _was

exceeding great, when the Land was defiled with Blood, and the City full

of Perverseness_, Ezek. ix. 9. _some were found sighing and crying for

the Abominations of the Times_, Ezek. ix. 4. and such who live under a

right Feeling of our Condition as a Nation, these I trust will be

sensible that the Lord at this Day doth call to Mourning, though many

are ignorant of it. So powerful are bad Customs when they become

general, that People growing bold thro' the Examples one of another,

have often been unmoved at the most serious Warnings.

Our blessed Saviour speaking of the People of the old World, said, _They

eat, they drank, they married, and were given in Marriage, until the Day

that_ Noah _went into the Ark, and the Flood came and destroy'd them

all_, Luke xvii. 27.

The like he spake concerning the People of _Sodom_, who are also

represented by the Prophet as haughty, luxurious, and oppressive; _This

was the Sin of_ Sodom, _Pride, Fulness of Bread, and Abundance of

Idleness was found in her, and in her Daughters; neither did she

strengthen the Hands of the Poor and Needy_, Ezek. xvi. 49.

Now in a Revolt so deep as this, when much Blood has been shed

unrighteously, in carrying on the Slave Trade, and in supporting the

Practice of keeping Slaves, which at this Day is unatoned for, and

crieth from the Earth, and from the Seas against the Oppressor!

While this Practice is continued, and under a great Load of Guilt there

is more Unrighteousness committed, the State of Things is very moving!

There is a Love which stands in Nature, and a Parent beholding his Child

in Misery, hath a Feeling of the Affliction; but in Divine Love the

Heart is enlarged towards Mankind universally, and prepar'd to

sympathize with Strangers, though in the lowest Station in Life.

Of this the Prophet appears to have had a Feeling, when he said, _Have

we not all one Father? Hath not one God created us? Why then do we deal

treacherously every Man with his Brother, in prophaning the Covenant of

our Fathers?_ Mal. ii. 10.

He who of old heard the Groans of the Children of _Israel_ under the

hard Task-masters in _Egypt_, I trust hath looked down from his Holy

Habitation on the Miseries of these deeply oppress'd People. Many Lives

have been shorten'd through extreme Oppression while they labour'd to

support Luxury and Worldly Greatness; and tho' many People in outward

Prosperity may think little of those Things, yet the gracious Creator

hath Regard to the Cries of the Innocent, however unnoticed by Men.

The Lord in the Riches of his Goodness is leading some into the Feeling

of the Condition of this People, who cannot rest without labouring as

their Advocate; of which in some Measure I have had Experience, for, in

the Movings of his Love in my Heart, these poor Sufferers have been

brought near to me.

The unoffending Aged and Infirm made to labour too hard, kept on a Diet

less comfortable than their weak State required, and exposed to great

Difficulties under hard-hearted Men, to whose Sufferings I have often

been a Witness, and under the Heart-melting Power of Divine Love, their

Misery hath felt to me like the Misery of my Parents.

Innocent Youth taken by Violence from their Native Land, from their

Friends and Acquaintance; put on board Ships with Hearts laden with

Sorrow; exposed to great Hardships at Sea; placed under People, where

their Lives have been attended with great Provocation to Anger and

Revenge.

With the Condition of these Youth, my Mind hath often been affected, as

with the Afflictions of my Children, and in a Feeling of the Misery of

these People, and of that great Offence which is minister'd to them, my

Tears have been often poured out before the Lord.

That Holy Spirit which affected my Heart when I was a Youth, I trust is

often felt by the Negroes in their Native Land, inclining their Minds to

that which is righteous, and had the professed Followers of Christ in

all their Conduct towards them, manifested a Disposition answerable to

the pure Principle in their Hearts, how might the Holy Name have been

honoured amongst the _Gentiles_, and how might we have rejoiced in the

fulfilling of that Prophecy, _I the Lord love Judgment, I hate Robbery

for Burnt-offerings, and I will direct their Work in Truth, and make an

everlasting Covenant with them. Their Seed shall be known amongst the_

Gentiles, _and their Offspring amongst the People: All that see them

shall acknowledge them, that they are the Seed which the Lord hath

blessed_, Isaiah lxi. 8, 9.

But in the present State of Things, how contrary is this Practice to

that meek Spirit, in which our Saviour laid down his Life for us, that

all the Ends of the Earth might know Salvation in his Name!

How are the Sufferings of our blessed Redeemer set at nought, and his

Name blasphemed amongst the _Gentiles_, through the unrighteous

Proceedings of his profess'd Followers!

My Mind hath often been affected, even from the Days of my Youth, under

a Sense of that marvellous Work, for which God, in infinite Goodness,

sent his Son into the World.

The opening of that Spring of living Waters, which the true Believers in

Christ experience, by which they are redeemed from Pride and

Covetousness, and brought into a State of Meekness, where their Hearts

are enlarged in true Love toward their Fellow Creatures universally;

this Work to me has been precious, and the Spreading the Knowledge of

the Truth amongst the _Gentiles_ been very desirable. And the professed

Followers of Christ joining in Customs evidently unrighteous, which

manifestly tend to stir up Wrath, and increase Wars and Desolations,

hath often covered my Mind with Sorrow.

If we bring this Matter home, and as _Job_ proposed to his Friends, _Put

our Soul in their Soul's stead_, Job xvi. 4.

If we consider ourselves and our Children as exposed to the Hardships

which these People lie under in supporting an imaginary Greatness.

Did we in such Case behold an Increase of Luxury and Superfluity amongst

our Oppressors, and therewith felt an Increase of the Weight of our

Burdens, and expected our Posterity to groan under Oppression after us.

Under all this Misery, had we none to plead our Cause, nor any Hope of

Relief from Man, how would our Cries ascend to the God of the Spirits of

all Flesh, who judgeth the World in Righteousness, and in his own Time

is a Refuge for the Oppressed!

If they who thus afflicted us, continued to lay Claim to Religion, and

were assisted in their Business by others, esteemed pious People, who

through a Friendship with them strengthened their Hands in Tyranny.

In such a State, when we were Hunger-bitten, and could not have

sufficient Nourishment but saw them in fulness pleasing their Taste with

Things fetched from far:

When we were wearied with Labour, denied the Liberty to rest, and saw

them spending their Time at Ease: When Garments answerable to our

Necessities were denied us, while we saw them cloathed in that which was

costly and delicate:

Under such Affliction, how would these painful Feelings rise up as

Witnesses against their pretended Devotion! And if the Name of their

Religion was mention'd in our Hearing, how would it sound in our Ears

like a Word which signified Self-exaltation, and Hardness of Heart!

When a Trade is carried on, productive of much Misery, and they who

suffer by it are some Thousands Miles off, the Danger is the greater, of

not laying their Sufferings to Heart.

In procuring Slaves on the Coast of _Africa_, many Children are stolen

privately; Wars also are encouraged amongst the Negroes, but all is at a

great Distance.

Many Groans arise from dying Men, which we hear not.

Many Cries are uttered by Widows and Fatherless Children, which reach

not our Ears.

Many Cheeks are wet with Tears, and Faces sad with unutterable Grief,

which we see not.

Cruel Tyranny is encouraged. The Hands of Robbers are strengthened, and

Thousands reduced to the most abject Slavery, who never injured us.

Were we for the Term of one Year only to be an Eye-witness to what

passeth in getting these Slaves:

Was the Blood which is there shed to be sprinkled on our Garments:

Were the poor Captives bound with Thongs, heavy laden with Elephants

Teeth, to pass before our Eyes on their Way to the Sea:

Were their bitter Lamentations Day after Day to ring in our Ears, and

their mournful Cries in the Night to hinder us from Sleeping:

Were we to hear the Sound of the Tumult when the Slaves on board the

Ships attempt to kill the _English_, and behold the Issue of those

bloody Conflicts:

What pious Man could be a Witness to these Things, and see a Trade

carried on in this Manner, without being deeply affected with Sorrow?

Through abiding in the Love of Christ we feel a Tenderness in our Hearts

toward our Fellow Creatures, entangled in oppressive Customs; and a

Concern so to walk, that our Conduct may not be a Means of strength'ning

them in Error.

It was the Command of the Lord through _Moses, Thou shalt not suffer Sin

upon thy Brother: Thou shalt in anywise rebuke thy Brother, and shalt

not suffer Sin upon him_, Lev. xix. 17.

Again; _Keep far from a false Matter; and the Innocent and Righteous

slay thou not_, Exod. xxiii. 7.

The Prophet _Isaiah_ mentions Oppression as that which the true Church

in Time of outward Quiet should not only be clear of, but should be _far

from it_; _Thou shalt be far from Oppression_, Isaiah liv. 14. Now these

Words, _far from_, appear to have an extensive Meaning, and to convey

Instruction in regard to that of which _Solomon_ speaks, _Though Hand

join in Hand, the Wicked shall not go unpunished_, Prov. xvi. 5.

It was a Complaint against one of old, _When thou sawest a Thief, thou

consentedst with him_, Psal. l. 18.

The Prophet _Jeremiah_ represents the Degrees of Preparation toward

Idolatrous Sacrifice, in the Similitude of a Work carried on by

Children, Men, and Women: _The Children gather Wood, the Fathers kindle

the Fire, and the Women knead the Dough to bake Cakes for the Queen of

Heaven_, Jer. vii. 18.

It was a complaint of the Lord against _Israel_, through his Prophet

_Ezekiel_, that _they strengthen'd the Hands of the Wicked, and made the

Hearts of the Righteous sad_, Ezek. xiii. 12.

Some Works of Iniquity carried on by the People were represented by the

Prophet _Hosea_, in the Similitude of Ploughing, Reaping, and eating the

Fruit; _You have ploughed Wickedness, reaped Iniquity, eaten the Fruit

of Lying, because thou didst trust in thy own Way, to the Multitude of

thy mighty Men_, Hosea x. 13.

I have felt great Distress of Mind since I came on this Island, on

Account of the Members of our Society being mixed with the World in

various Sorts of Business and Traffick, carried on in impure Channels.

Great is the Trade to _Africa_ for Slaves; and in loading these Ships

abundance of People are employ'd in the Manufactories.

Friends in early Time refused, on a religious Principle, to make or

trade in Superfluities, of which we have many large Testimonies on

Record, but for want of Faithfulness some gave way, even some whose

Examples were of Note in Society, and from thence others took more

Liberty: Members of our Society worked in Superfluities, and bought and

sold them, and thus Dimness of Sight came over many. At length, Friends

got into the Use of some Superfluities in Dress, and in the Furniture of

their Houses, and this hath spread from less to more, till Superfluity

of some Kind is common amongst us.

In this declining State many look at the Example one of another, and too

much neglect the pure Feeling of Truth. Of late Years a deep Exercise

hath attended my Mind, that Friends may dig deep, may carefully cast

forth the loose Matter, and get down to the Rock, the sure Foundation,

and there hearken to that Divine Voice which gives a clear and certain

Sound.

And I have felt in that which doth not deceive, that if Friends who have

known the Truth, keep in that Tenderness of Heart, where all Views of

outward Gain are given up, and their Trust is only on the Lord, he will

graciously lead some to be Patterns of deep Self-denial, in Things

relating to Trade, and handicraft Labour; and that some who have Plenty

of the Treasures of this World, will example in a plain frugal Life,

and pay Wages to such whom they may hire, more liberally than is now

customary in some Places.

The Prophet, speaking of the true Church, said, _Thy People also shall

be all righteous._

Of the Depth of this Divine Work several have spoken.

_John Gratton_, in his Journal, p. 45, said, "The Lord is my Portion, I

shall not want. He hath wrought all my Works in me. I am nothing but

what I am in him."

_Gilbert Latey_, through the powerful Operations of the Spirit of Christ

in his Soul, was brought to that Depth of Self-denial, that he could not

join with that proud Spirit in other People, which inclined them to want

Vanities and Superfluities. This Friend was often amongst the chief

Rulers of the Nation in Times of Persecution, and it appears by the

Testimony of Friends, that his Dwelling was so evidently in the pure

Life of Truth, that in his Visits to those great Men, he found a Place

in their Minds; and that King _James_ the Second, in the Times of his

Troubles, made particular Mention in a very respectful Manner of what

_Gilbert_ once said to him.

The said _Gilbert_ found a Concern to write an Epistle, in which are

these Expressions; "Fear the Lord, ye Men of all Sorts, Trades, and

Callings, and leave off all the Evil that is in them, for the Lord is

grieved with all the Evils used in your Employments which you are

exercised in.

"It is even a Grief to see how you are Servants to Sin, and Instruments

of Satan." See his Works, Page 42, _etc._ _George Fox_, in an Epistle,

writes thus: "Friends, stand in the Eternal Power of God, Witness

against the Pomps and Vanities of this World.

"Such Tradesmen who stand as Witnesses in the Power of God, cannot

fulfil the People's Minds in these Vanities, and therefore they are

offended at them.

"Let all trust in the Lord, and wait patiently on him; for when Trust

first broke forth in _London_, many Tradesmen could not take so much

Money in their Shops for some Time, as would buy them Bread and Water,

because they withstood the World's Ways, Fashions, and Customs; yet by

their patient waiting on the Lord in their good Life and Conversation,

they answer'd the Truth in People's Hearts, and thus their Business

increased." Book of Doctrinals, Page 824.

Now Christ our Holy Leader graciously continueth to open the

Understandings of his People, and as Circumstances alter from Age to

Age, some who are deeply baptized into a Feeling of the State of Things,

are led by his Holy Spirit into Exercises in some respect different from

those which attended the Faithful in foregoing Ages, and through the

Constrainings of pure Love, are engaged to open the Feelings they have

to others.

In faithfully following Christ, the Heart is weaned from the Desires of

Riches, and we are led into a Life so plain and simple, that a little

doth suffice, and thus the Way openeth to deny ourselves, under all the

tempting Allurements of that Gain, which we know is the Gain of

Unrighteousness.

The Apostle speaking on this Subject, asketh this Question; _What

Fellowship hath Righteousness with Unrighteousness?_ 2 Cor. vi. 14. And

again saith, _Have no Fellowship with the unfruitful Works of Darkness,

but rather reprove them_, Ephes. v. 11. Again, _Be not Partaker of other

Men's Sins, keep thyself pure_, 1 Tim. v. 22.

Where People through the Power of Christ are thoroughly settled in a

right Use of Things, freed from all unnecessary Care and Expence, the

Mind in this true Resignation is at Liberty from the Bands of a narrow

Self-Interest, to attend from Time to Time on the Movings of his Spirit

upon us, though he leads into that through which our Faith is closely

tried.

The Language of Christ is pure, and to the Pure in Heart this pure

Language is intelligible; but in the Love of Money, the Mind being

intent on Gain, is too full of human Contrivance to attend to it.

It appeareth evident, that some Channels of Trade are defiled with

Unrighteousness, that the Minds of many are intent on getting Treasures

to support a Life, in which there are many unnecessary Expences.

And I feel a living Concern attend my Mind, that under these

Difficulties we may humbly follow our Heavenly Shepherd, who graciously

regardeth his Flock, and is willing and able to supply us both inwardly

and outwardly with clean Provender, that hath been winnowed with the

Shovel and the Fan, where we may _sow to ourselves in Righteousness,

reap in Mercy_, Hosea x. 12. and not be defiled with the Works of

Iniquity.

Where Customs contrary to pure Wisdom are transmitted to Posterity, it

appears to be an Injury committed against them; and I often feel tender

Compassion toward a young Generation, and Desires that their

Difficulties may not be increased through Unfaithfulness in us of the

present Age.

CHAPTER II

_On a_ SAILOR'S LIFE

In the Trade to _Africa_ for Slaves, and in the Management of Ships

going on these Voyages, many of our Lads and young Men have a

considerable Part of their Education.

Now what pious Father beholding his Son placed in one of these Ships, to

learn the Practice of a Mariner, could forbear mourning over him?

Where Youth are exampled in Means of getting Money so full of Violence,

and used to exercise such Cruelties on their Fellow Creatures, the

Disadvantage to them in their Education is very great.

But I feel it in my Mind to write concerning the Seafaring Life in

general.

In the Trade carried on from the _West-Indies_, and from some Part of

the Continent, the Produce of the Labour of Slaves is a considerable

Part.

And Sailors who are frequently at Ports where Slaves abound, and

converse often with People who oppress without the Appearance of

Remorse, and often with Sailors employ'd in the Slave Trade, how

powerfully do these evil Examples spread amongst the Seafaring Youth!

I have had many Opportunities to feel and understand the general State

of the Seafaring Life amongst us, and my Mind hath often been sad on

Account of so many Lads and young Men been trained up amidst so great

Corruption.

Under the humbling Power of Christ I have seen, that if the Leadings of

his Holy Spirit were faithfully attended to by his professed Followers

in general, the Heathen Nations would be exampled in Righteousness. A

less Number of People would be employed on the Seas. The Channels of

Trade would be more free from Defilement. Fewer People would be

employed in Vanities and Superfluities.

The Inhabitants of Cities would be less in Number.

Those who have much Lands would become Fathers to the Poor.

More People would be employed in the sweet Employment of Husbandry, and

in the Path of pure Wisdom, Labour would be an agreeable, healthful

Employment.

In the Opening of these Things in my Mind, I feel a living Concern that

we who have felt Divine Love in our Hearts may faithfully abide in it,

and like good Soldiers endure Hardness for Christ's Sake.

He, our blessed Saviour, exhorting his Followers to love one another,

adds, _As I have loved you_. John xiii. 34.

He loved _Lazarus_, yet in his Sickness did not heal him, but left him

to endure the Pains of Death, that in restoring him to Life, the People

might be confirmed in the true Faith.

He loved his Disciples, but sent them forth on a Message attended with

great Difficulty, amongst Hard-hearted People, some of whom would think

that in killing them they did God Service.

So deep is Divine Love, that in stedfastly abiding in it, we are

prepar'd to deny ourselves of all that Gain which is contrary to pure

Wisdom, and to follow Christ, even under Contempt, and through

Sufferings.

While Friends were kept truly humble, and walked according to the Purity

of our Principles, the Divine Witness in many Hearts was reached; but

when a Worldly Spirit got Entrance, therewith came in Luxuries and

Superfluities, and spread by little and little, even among the foremost

Rank in Society, and from thence others took Liberty in that Way more

abundantly.

In the Continuation of these Things from Parents to Children, there were

many Wants to supply, even Wants unknown to Friends while they

faithfully followed Christ. And in striving to supply these Wants many

have exacted on the Poor, many have enter'd on Employments, in which

they often labour in upholding Pride and Vanity. Many have looked on one

another, been strengthen'd in these Things, one by the Example of

another, and as to the pure Divine Seeing, Dimness hath come over many,

and the Channels of true Brotherly Love been obstructed.

People may have no intention to oppress, yet by entering on expensive

Ways of Life, their Minds may be so entangled therein, and so engag'd to

support expensive Customs, as to be estranged from the pure sympathizing

Spirit.

As I have travell'd in _England_, I have had a tender Feeling of the

Condition of poor People, some of whom though honest and industrious,

have nothing to spare toward paying for the Schooling of their Children.

There is a Proportion between Labour and the Necessaries of Life, and in

true Brotherly Love the Mind is open to feel after the Necessities of

the Poor.

Amongst the Poor there are some that are weak through Age, and others of

a weakly Nature, who pass through Straits in very private Life, without

asking Relief from the Publick.

Such who are strong and healthy may do that Business, which to the

Weakly may be oppressive; and in performing that in a Day which is

esteem'd a Day's Labour, by weakly Persons in the Field and in the

Shops, and by weakly Women who spin and knit in the Manufactories, they

often pass through Weariness; and many Sighs I believe are uttered in

secret, unheard by some who might ease their Burdens.

Labour in the right Medium is healthy, but in too much of it there is a

painful Weariness; and the Hardships of the Poor are sometimes increased

through Want of a more agreeable Nourishment, more plentiful Fewel for

the Fire, and warmer Cloathing in the Winter than their Wages will

answer.

When I have beheld Plenty in some Houses to a Degree of Luxury, the

Condition of poor Children brought up without Learning, and the

Condition of the Weakly and Aged, who strive to live by their Labour,

have often revived in my Mind, as Cases of which some who live in

Fulness need to be put in Remembrance.

There are few, if any, could behold their Fellow Creatures lie long in

Distress and forbear to help them, when they could do it without any

Inconvenience; but Customs requiring much Labour to support them, do

often lie heavy on the Poor, while they who live in these Customs are so

entangled in a Multitude of unnecessary Concerns that they think but

little of the Hardships which the poor People go through.

CHAPTER III

_On_ SILENT WORSHIP

Worship in Silence hath often been refreshing to my Mind, and a Care

attends me that a young Generation may feel the Nature of this Worship.

Great Expence ariseth in Relation to that which is call'd Divine

Worship.

A considerable Part of this Expence is applied toward outward Greatness,

and many poor People in raising of Tithe, labour in supporting Customs

contrary to the Simplicity that there is in Christ, toward whom my Mind

hath often been moved with Pity.

In pure silent Worship, we dwell under the Holy Anointing, and feel

Christ to be our Shepherd.

Here the best of Teachers ministers to the several Conditions of his

Flock, and the Soul receives immediately from the Divine Fountain, that

with which it is nourished.

As I have travelled at Times where those of other Societies have

attended our Meetings, and have perceiv'd how little some of them knew

of the Nature of silent Worship; I have felt tender Desires in my Heart

that we who often sit silent in our Meetings, may live answerable to the

Nature of an inward Fellowship with God, that no Stumbling-block through

us, may be laid in their Way.

Such is the Load of unnecessary Expence which lieth on that which is

called Divine Service in many Places, and so much are the Minds of many

People employ'd in outward Forms and Ceremonies, that the opening of an

inward silent Worship in this Nation to me hath appeared to be a

precious Opening.

Within the last four Hundred Years, many pious People have been deeply

exercised in Soul on Account of the Superstition which prevailed amongst

the professed Followers of Christ, and in support of their Testimony

against oppressive Idolatry, some in several Ages have finished their

Course in the Flames.

It appears by the History of the Reformation, that through the

Faithfulness of the Martyrs, the Understandings of many have been

opened, and the Minds of People, from Age to Age, been more and more

prepared for a real spiritual Worship.

My Mind is often affected with a Sense of the Condition of those People

who in different Ages have been meek and patient, following Christ

through great Afflictions: And while I behold the several Steps, of

Reformation, and that Clearness, to which through Divine Goodness, it

hath been brought by our Ancestors; I feel tender Desires that we who

sometimes meet in Silence, may never by our Conduct lay Stumbling-blocks

in the Way of others, and hinder the Progress of the Reformation in the

World.

It was a Complaint against some who were called the Lord's People, that

they brought polluted Bread to his Altar, and said the Table of the Lord

was contemptible.

In real silent Worship the Soul feeds on that which is Divine; but we

cannot partake of the Table of the Lord, and that Table which is

prepared by the God of this World.

If Christ is our Shepherd, and feedeth us, and we are faithful in

following him, our Lives will have an inviting Language, and the Table

of the Lord will not be polluted.

SOME EXPRESSIONS OF JOHN WOOLMAN IN HIS LAST ILNESS.

_LONDON_:

Printed by MARY HINDE.

SOME EXPRESSIONS, &c.

Being in the Course of his religious Visit at _York_, and having

attended most of the Sittings of the Quarterly-Meeting there, held in

the Ninth Month, 1772, he was taken ill of the _Small Pox_, in which

Disorder he continued about two Weeks, at Times under great Affliction

of Body, and then departed in full Assurance of a happy Eternity, as the

following Expressions, amongst others, taken from his own Mouth, do

plainly evidence.

One Day being asked how he felt himself, he meekly answered, "I don't

know that I have slept this Night: I feel the Disorder making its

Progress, but my Mind is mercifully preserved in Stillness and Peace."

Some Time after he said, "He was sensible the Pains of Death must be

hard to bear, but if he escaped them now, he must some Time pass through

them, and did not know he could be better prepared, but had no Will in

it." Said, "He had settled his outward Affairs to his Mind; had taken

Leave of his Wife and Family, as never to return, leaving them to the

Divine Protection:" Adding, "And though I feel them near to me at this

Time, yet I freely give them up, having an Hope they will be provided

for." And a little after said, "This Trial is made easier than I could

have thought, by my Will being wholly taken away; for if I was anxious

as to the Event, it would be harder, but I am not, and my Mind enjoys a

perfect Calm."

In the Night a young Woman having given him something to drink, he said,

"My Child, thou seemest very kind to me, a poor Creature, the Lord will

reward thee for it." A while after he cried out with great Earnestness

of Spirit, "Oh! my Father, my Father, how comfortable art thou to my

Soul in this trying Season." Being asked if he could take a little

Nourishment, after some Pause he replied, "My Child, I cannot tell what

to say to it: I seem nearly arrived where my Soul shall have Rest from

all its Troubles." After giving in something to be put into his Journal,

he said, "I believe the Lord will now excuse me from Exercises of this

Kind, and I see no Work but one, which is to be the last wrought by me

in this World; the Messenger will come that will release me from all

these Troubles, but it must be in the Lord's Time, which I am waiting

for." He said, "He had laboured to do whatever was required, according

to the Ability received, in the Remembrance of which he had Peace: And

though the Disorder was strong at Times, and would come over his Mind

like a Whirlwind, yet it had hitherto been kept steady, and center'd in

everlasting Love." Adding, "And if that's mercifully continued, I ask

nor desire no more."

At another Time he said, "He had long had a View of visiting this

Nation; and some Time before he came, he had a Dream, in which he saw

himself in the Northern Parts of it; and that the Spring of the Gospel

was opened in him, much as in the Beginning of Friends, such as _George

Fox_ and _William Dewsbury_; and he saw the different States of People

as clear as ever he had seen Flowers in a Garden; but in his going on he

was suddenly stopt, though he could not see for what End, but looked

towards Home, and in that fell into a Flood of Tears, which waked him."

At another Time he said, "My Draught seem'd strongest to the North, and

I mentioned in my own Monthly-Meeting, that attending the

Quarterly-Meeting at _York_, and being there, looked like Home to me."

Having repeatedly consented to take a Medicine with a View to settle his

Stomach, but without Effect, the Friend then waiting on him, said,

through Distress, "What shall I do now?" He answered with great

Composure, "Rejoice evermore, and in every Thing give Thanks." But added

a little after, "This is sometimes hard to come at."

One Morning early he brake forth in Supplication on this wise; "Oh Lord!

it was thy Power that enabled me to forsake Sin in my Youth, and I have

felt thy Bruises since for Disobedience, but as I bowed under them thou

healedst me; and though I have gone through many Trials and sore

Afflictions, thou hast been with me, continuing a Father and a Friend. I

feel thy Power now, and beg that in the approaching trying Moments, thou

wilt keep my Heart steadfast unto thee." Upon his giving the same Friend

Directions concerning some little Matters, she said, "I will take Care,

but hope thou mayst live to order them thyself;" he replied, "My Hope is

in Christ; and though I may now seem a little better, a Change in the

Disorder may soon happen, and my little Strength be dissolved, and if it

so happen, I shall be gather'd to my everlasting Rest." On her saying,

"She did not doubt that, but could not help mourning to see so many

faithful Servants removed at so low a Time," he said, "All Goodness

cometh from the Lord, whose Power is the same, and he can work as he

sees best." The same Day, after giving her Directions about wrapping his

Corpse, and perceiving her to weep, he said, "I had rather thou wouldst

guard against Weeping or Sorrowing for me, my Sister; I sorrow not,

though I have had some painful Conflicts; but now they seem over, and

Matters all settled, and I look at the Face of my dear Redeemer, for

sweet is his Voice, and his Countenance comely."

Being very weak, and in general difficult to be understood, he uttered a

few Words in Commemoration of the Lord's Goodness to him; and added,

"How tenderly have I been waited upon in this Time of Affliction, in

which I may say in _Job's_ Words, _Tedious Days and wearisome Nights are

appointed unto me_; and how many are spending their Time and Money in

Vanity and Superfluities, while Thousands and Tens of Thousands want the

Necessaries of Life, who might be relieved by them, and their Distresses

at such a Time as this, in some degree softened by the administring of

suitable Things."

An Apothecary who attended him of his own Accord (he being unwilling to

have any sent for) appeared very anxious to assist him, with whom

conversing, he queried about the Probability of such a Load of Matter

being thrown off his weak Body, and the Apothecary making some Remarks,

implying he thought it might, he spoke with an audible Voice on this

wise: "My Dependance is in the Lord Jesus Christ, who I trust will

forgive my Sins, which is all I hope for; and if it be his Will to raise

up this Body again, I am content, and if to die I am resigned: And if

thou canst not be easy without trying to assist Nature, in order to

lengthen out my Life, I submit." After this, his Throat was so much

affected, that it was very difficult for him to speak so as to be

understood, and he frequently wrote when he wanted any Thing. About the

second Hour on Fourth-day Morning, being the 7th of the Tenth Month,

1772, he asked for Pen and Ink, and at several Times, with much

Difficulty, wrote thus: "I believe my being here is in the Wisdom of

Christ; I know not as to Life or Death." About a Quarter before Six the

same Morning, he seemed to fall into an easy Sleep, which continued

about half an Hour, when seeming to awake, he breathed a few Times with

more Difficulty, and so expired without Sigh, Groan, or Struggle.

* * * * *

_Note_, He often said, "It was hid from him, whether he might recover,

or not, and he was not desirous to know it; but from his own Feeling of

the Disorder, and his feeble Constitution, thought he should not."

FINIS

THE TEMPLE PRESS, PRINTERS, LETCHWORTH