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 tlie Cornell University Library. 
 
 There are no known copyright restrictions in 
 the United States on the use of the text. 
 
 http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924029466137 
 
JOURNAL 
 
 OF THE 
 
 LIFE, GOSPEL LABOURS, 
 
 AND 
 
 CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES 
 
 or THAT 
 
 FAITHFUL MINISTER OF JESUS CHRIST, 
 
 JOHN WOOLMAN, 
 
 LATE OT MOUNT-HOLLY, IN THE PROVINCE OF NEW 
 JERSEY, NORTH AMERICA. 
 
 TO WHICH ARE ADDED, HIS. I.A3T EPISTLE, AXD OTHER' WRITINGS. 
 
 Isaiah XXXII. 17. 
 
 The work of righteousness shall be peace ; and the effect of righteouf- 
 
 nesSj quietness and assurance for ever, 
 
 WARRINGTON : 
 
 PRINTED BY THOMAS HURST, SANKEY STREET. 
 1840. 
 
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.* 
 
 The present edition of the Life and Writings of John 
 Woolman, was commenced by the late esteemed and la- 
 mented James Ceoppeh ; and it is due to him, and to 
 the Society of Friends, as well as to the public, briefly 
 to refer to the motives which induced him to under- 
 take it. 
 
 In a letter to a friend dated 7th of 11th mo. 1839, he 
 states in substance as follows : " The motive which most 
 strongly presses on my mind, is an earnest desire to hold 
 up to the view of the members of our own society, an 
 example of what practicallj' constitutes a real Quaker ; 
 and to call the particular attention of my fellow members 
 to the great decline and low state of things amongst us. 
 I fear, and I deeply lament it, that we are not individu- 
 ally under that exercise of mind which such a state of 
 things ought to produce. I do not refer to any par- 
 ticular class amongst us, but to those of every class and 
 of every age. Yet in the midst of these discourage- 
 
 * By the express desire of the late J. C. these introductory re- 
 marks have been drawn up under the inspection of three friends 
 well known and esteemed in the Society. 
 
 a2 
 
ments I often feel animated with the belief, that the Lord 
 has not utterly cast us off as a people, but that it may 
 now be said as of old ; ' The Lord is with you while 
 ye be with him ; and if ye seek him, he will be found 
 of you.' 2 Chron, xv. 2. 
 
 "I have been greatly encouraged by the success of the 
 labours of this humble, meek, charitable, and Christ-like 
 man (J. W.) and his coadjutors, in visiting those who 
 held slaves, beginning with ministers, elders, and over- 
 seers. The root of the evil in those days was precisely 
 vfhat it is now, the love of the world, though manifested 
 in a different form ; and wherever this exists, and un- 
 der whatever form, it separates from the love of the 
 Father. When professors of the Christian name do not 
 live up to their profession, but are loving the vrorM,. 
 they must be stumbling blocks to the sincere inquirers 
 after the way to Zion. Let none however suppose that 
 because they are making a less profession, they are more 
 excusable. What wUl it avail such in a day that is fast 
 approaching, to plead that they professed little, believed 
 little, or cared not for these things? Let us all put 
 the inquiry to ourselves, how far are we faithful stew- 
 ards of the talents, of whatever kind, that are intrusted 
 to us ? If we were to feel as John Woolman did, with 
 respect to luxuries and superfluities, we should be con- 
 vinced that our testimonies, in favour of simplicity and 
 moderation, had a right foundation." 
 
The above extract will show, how deeply James Cropper 
 lamented what he believed to be the low state of things 
 in the society; and how anxious he was that all classes 
 of its members, whilst recognizing the all-important doc- 
 trines of Christianity, should be more concerned to live 
 under their influence : — to avoid ' separating the work 
 of Christ from the mind of Christ :' — to look more to 
 his example, and to remember what he said of his fol- 
 lowers : " They are not of the world, even as I am not 
 of the world." 
 
 In a letter dated 2nd mo. 10th, 1840, J. C. notices an 
 objection that had been made to John Woolman's jour- 
 nal, in common with the writings of some other of the 
 early friends, viz., that faith in Christ crncified, as the 
 ground of man's hope of salvation, is not prominently 
 set forth in them. Eecognizing this great scriptural doc- 
 , trine as J. C. did, fully, cordially, and reverently, he 
 could not but feel deeply pained at such an intimation. 
 " It was my intention," he says in the same letter, " to 
 notice the subject in the introductory remarks ; but my 
 health will not admit of close thought. I have lately 
 been much interested in reading the latter part of the 
 memoir of George Fox, recently published, in which, at 
 page 275, these objections are ably answered." The fol- 
 lowing is part of the passage alluded to : " They were 
 charged with setting up this doctrine ( the immediate 
 teachings of the Holy Spirit) in opposition jfi the out- 
 
ward coming, and propitiatory sufferings and death, of 
 the dear Son of God, and to his divinity and mediation ; 
 ■which false accusation they promptly denied, asserting 
 that since they had come to the teachings of his spirit 
 in their hearts, they had been brought to a more true, 
 reverent, and living sense and esteem, of his unmerited 
 mercy in coming into the world to die for sinners, and 
 of all his blessed offices in the work of man's salvation, 
 than they ever had before." 
 
 It is not impossible that the question may occur to 
 some readers, in what then does Quakerism mainly dif- 
 fer 'from the other various professions of Christianity ? 
 and though an elaborate reply to such a query will not 
 be attempted here, yet it may be remarked, that it does 
 not materially, if at all, differ from other orthodox creeds, 
 in its estimate or apprehension of those great truths of 
 the inspired volume, which are essentially necessary to 
 our salvation as sinners. 
 
 The society of Friends heartily, honestly, and fully 
 receives all these in their genuine import ; at the same 
 time, the full and practical recognition of the important 
 scripture doctrine of spiritual influence, has led to the 
 adoption of a high and pure standard of Christian prac- 
 tice. Quakerism therefore mainly differs from other pro- 
 fessions in its estimate of our duty as Christians ; main- 
 taining the truth as it is in Jesus, not merely in its 
 fundamental principles, but in all its practical bearings, 
 
as the designed means of man's deliverance from the 
 guilt, the pollution, the power, and the punishment of 
 sin. 
 
 In the letter above referred to, dated 2nd mo. 10th 
 1840, J. C. again reverts to the testimony of John 
 Woolman against the holding of slaves, and to his meek 
 and self-denying labours in that righteous cause. It is 
 not improbable that some copies of the present edition 
 may be circulated in J. W's. native land. Those upon 
 whom has devolved the care of conducting this work 
 through the press, vpould avail themselves of the oppor- 
 tunity vyhich it presents, to call upon their brethren in 
 America still to uphold a noble testimony against all op- 
 pression, in the same meek and gentle, yet faithful and 
 uncompromising spirit ; and affectionately to suggest to 
 them, whether the fact of their being separated, as a 
 body, from the polluting influence of slave-holding, 
 through the self-denying labours of John Woolman and 
 others of a kindred spirit, does not throw upon the mem- 
 bers of the society of Friends in the present generation, 
 a great additional obligation, unceasingly to exert them- 
 selves, by- every legitimate means, to promote the total 
 and immediate extinction of this crying evil. 
 
 In the year 1758, J. W. thus addiessed the yearly 
 meeting of Philadelphia : " Many slaves on this conti- 
 nent are oppressed, and their cries have reached the ear 
 of the Most High." Such are the purity and- certainty of 
 
his judgments, that He canaot be partial in our favour. 
 In infinite love and goodness lie hath opened our under- 
 standings from one time to another, concerning our duty 
 towards this people, and it is not a time for delay. 
 Should we now be made sensible of what he requires 
 of us, and through respect to the private interests of 
 some persons, or through regard to some friendships 
 which do not stand on an immutable foundation, neg- 
 lect to do our duty in firmness and constancy, still 
 waiting for some extraordinary means for their deliver- 
 ance; it may be 'by terrible things in righteousness,' 
 God will answer us in this matter.' 
 
 May the perusal of a life of so much holiness, and 
 of benevolence so untiring, impress us deeply as to what 
 the Gospel requires of its professors ; and may this great 
 truth be borne in mind, that the character of John 
 Woolman, in as far as it was lovely and excellent, was 
 but an exemplification of the power of the Grace of 
 Christ to change the heart of man ; and that his tender 
 sympathy with the afflicted and oppressed, his unsparing 
 self-denial, and deep sense of the purity of the true Christian 
 character, as well as his continued efibrts to extend the 
 mild and peaceable Kingdom of the Eedeemer, were gen- 
 uine fruits of faith in that Saviour, " whose name," he 
 says, " to me was precious.'' And such fruits must be 
 considered as better evidence than mere words could 
 give, however correctly framed, of the obedience of Faith, 
 
of that Faith which worketh by Love to the purifying 
 of the heart ; producing righteousness and true holiness, 
 to the praise of God, and the good of our fellow crea- 
 tures. 
 
 In preparing this valuable work for a more extensive 
 circulation, it has been found necessary to correct many 
 grammatical inaccuracies, and occasionally to omit redun- 
 dant words, and repetitions of the same sentiments ; also 
 to transpose sentences, in which the author's meaning was 
 obscured by the want of a more simple and perspicuous 
 arrangement. But in making these corrections, the great- 
 est care has been taken to preserve the sense of the 
 author entire. 
 
 Fearnhead, llth mo. 1840. 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 CHAPTEK I. 
 
 Page. 
 
 J.Ws. birth and parentage. — Some account of the operations of 
 Divine grace on his mind in his youth. — His first appearance 
 in the ministry — and his considerations while young on the 
 keeping of slaves 1 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 His first journey on a religious visit, into East Jersey. — ^Thoughts 
 on merchandizing, and learning a trade. — Second journey into 
 Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. — Third 
 journey through part of West and East Jersey. — Fourth jour- 
 ney through New York and Long Island, to New England. — 
 Fifth journey, to the Eastern shore of Maryland, and the lower 
 Counties on Delaware IS 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 His Marriage. — ^The death of his father. — His journeys into the 
 upper part of New Jersey, and afterwards into Pennsylvania. — 
 Considerations on keeping slaves, and visits to the families of 
 friends at several times and places. — An epistle from the gener- 
 al meeting. — His journey to Long Island. — Considerations on 
 trading, and on the use of spirituous liquors and costly apparel. 
 Letter to a friend 21 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 Visit to the families of friends at Burlington. — ^Journey to Penn- 
 sylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. — Consider- 
 ations on the state of friends there ; and the exercise he was 
 under in travelling among those so generally concerned in keep- 
 ing slaves ; with some observations on this subject. — Epistle to 
 friends at New Garden and Cane Creek. — Thoughts on the 
 neglect of a religious care in the education of the negros 36 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Considerations on the payment of a tax, laid for carrying on the 
 war against the Indians — Meetings of the committee of the 
 yearly meeting at Philadelphia. — Some notes on Thomas k 
 Kempis, and John Huss. — ^The present circumstances of friends 
 in Pennsylvania and New Jersey very different from those of 
 our predecessors. — ^The draughting of the militia in New Jer- 
 
Page. 
 sey to serve in the army ; with some observations on the state 
 
 of the members of our society at that time Visit to friends in 
 
 Pennsylvania, accompanied by Benjamin Jones. — Proceedings 
 at the monthly, quarterly, and yearly meetings in Philadelphia, 
 respecting those who keep slaves 50 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 Visit to the quarterly meetings in Chester county .^Joins Daniel 
 Stanton and John Scarborough, in a visit to such as kept slaves 
 there.— Some observations on the conduct which those should 
 maintain who speak in meetings for discipline.^More visits to 
 such as kept slaves, and to friends near Salem. — Account of the 
 yearly meeting in the year 1759. — -and of the increasing Con- 
 cern in divers provinces, to labour against buying and keeping 
 slaves. — The yearly meeting epistle. — ^Thoughts on the small- 
 pox spreading, and on inoculation 67 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 Visit, in company vrith Samuel Eastburn, to Long Island, Rhode 
 Island, Boston, &c. — Remarks on the slave trade at Newport; 
 also on lotteries. — Some observations on the island of Nan- 
 tucket 82 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 Visits Pennsylvania, Shrewsbury, and Squan. — Publishes the sec- 
 ond part of his Considerations on keeping negros. — The grounds 
 of his appearing in some respects singular in his dress. — Visit 
 to the families of friends of Ancocas and Mount Holly meetings. 
 Visits to the Indians at Wehaloosing on the river Susquehannah. 96 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 Religious conversation with a company met to see the tricks of a 
 juggler. — Account of John Smith's advice, and of the proceed- 
 ings of a committee, at the yearly meeting in 1764. — Contem- 
 plations on the nature of true wisdom. — Visit to the families of 
 friends at Mount Holly, Mansfield, and Burlington, and to the 
 meetings on the sea coast from Cape May towards Squan. — 
 Some account of Joseph Nichols and his followers. — On the 
 different state of the first settlers in Pennsylvania who depen- 
 ded on their own labour, compared with those of the southern 
 provinces who kept negros. — Visit to the Northern parts of New 
 Jersey, and the Western parts of Maryland and Pennsylvania, 
 also to the families of friends at Mount Holly and several parts 
 of Maryland. Further considerations on keeping slaves; 
 and his concern for having been a party to the sale of one. — 
 Thoughts on friends exercising offices in civil government 121 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 Bodily indisposition. — Exercise of his mind for the good of the 
 people in the West Indies. — Communicates to friends his con- 
 cern to visit some of those islands. — Preparations to embark. — 
 
Considerations on tlie trade to the West Indies.^Releaae from 
 his concern and return home. — Religious engagements. — Sick- 
 ness and exercise of his mind there 136 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 Embarks at Chester, with Samuel Emlen, in a ship bound for Lon- 
 don. — Exercise of mind respecting the hardships of the sailors. 
 Considerations on the dangers of training youth to a seafaring 
 life. — Thoughts during a storm at sea. — Arrival in London 143 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 Attenda the yearly meeting in London. — Then proceeds towards 
 Yorkshire. — Visits quarterly and other meetings in the counties 
 of Hertford, Warwick, Oxford, Nottingham, York and West- 
 morel^nd.^Returns to Yorkshire. — Instructive observations 
 and l^ltters.-^Hears of the decease of William Hunt. — Some ac- 
 count of him. — The author's last illness and death at York. ... 159 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 Account of Elizabeth Woolman '. 177 
 
 Testimony of Friends in Yorkshire concerning John Woolman 180 
 
 Testimony of Frionds in Burlington concerning John Woolman .... 184 
 
 Considerations on the keeping of negros — Part the first 191 
 
 Part the second .208 
 
 Considerations on Pure Wisdom, and Human Policy ; on Labour, 
 on Schools, Sec 240 
 
 Considerations on the True Harmony of Mankind, &c. Chapter I. 256 
 
 Ditto, Chapter II. On the Example of Christ 264 
 
 Ditto, Chapter III. On Merchandizing 268 
 
 Ditto, Chapter IV. On Divine Admonitions 276 
 
 Remarks on Sundry Subjects. Chap. I. On Loving our neighbour 279 
 
 Ditto, Chapter IV. On Silent Worship .294 
 
 An Epistle to the Quarterly and Monthly Meetings of Friends. . . .206 
 
 A Word of Remembrance and Caution to the Rich .311 
 
 A Tribute to the Memory x>! John Woolman, by Bernard Barton. ..137 
 
 ERRATA. 
 
 Page 6, sixth line from bottom, — For learn, read learits. 
 
 Page 10, first line — For wherever, read whenever. 
 
 Page 14, seventh Une from top — Dele as. 
 
 Page 27i bottom line, — Insert that before T. 
 
 Page 52, seventh line from top, — For easily, read closely. 
 
 Page 56, do. do. do For I, read He. 
 
 Page 67, fifteenth line from top, — For negro right, read negro's right. 
 .Page 104, thirteenth line from top, — For Assyrians, read Syrians. 
 
A 
 
 JOURNAL 
 
 OF THE 
 
 LIFE AND TRAVELS 
 
 OP 
 
 JOHN WOOL'MAN, 
 
 IN THE SERVICE OF THE GOSPEL. 
 
 CHAP. I. 
 
 1720—1742. 
 
 His birth and parentage ■ — Some account of the operations oj" di- 
 vine grace on his mind in his youth — Sis first appearance in the 
 •ministry — and his considerations, while young, on the heeping of slaves. 
 
 I have often felt a motion of love to leave some hints in 
 writing 'of my experience of the goodness of God; and now, 
 in the thirty- sixth year of my age, I begin this work. 
 
 i was bom in Northampton, in Burlington County, West 
 Jersey, in the year 1720. Before I was seven years old, I 
 began to be acquainted with the operations of divine love. 
 Through the care of my parents, I was taught to read nearly 
 as soon as I was capable of it ; and as I, went from school one 
 day, I remember that while my companions were playing by 
 the way, I went ^rward out of sight, and sitting down I read 
 the 22nd chapter of the Revelations: "He showed me a pure 
 river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the 
 throne of God and of the Lamb, &c." In reading it, my 
 
2 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 mind was drawn to seek after that pure halDitation which I 
 then beUeved God had prepared for his servants. The place 
 where I sat, and the sweetness that attended my mind, re- 
 main fresh m my memory. This, and the hke gracious 
 visitations, had such an effect upon me, that when boys used 
 ill language, it troubled me ; and, through the continued 
 mercies of God, I was preserved from that evil. 
 
 The pious instructions of my parents were often fresh in 
 my mind, when I happened to be among wicked children, and 
 were of use to me. Having a large family of children, they 
 used frequently, on first-days after meeting, to set us one 
 after another to read in the holy scriptures, or some rehgious 
 books, the rest sittmg by without much conversation ; I have 
 since often thought it was a good practice. From what I had 
 read and heard, I believed there had been, in past ages, peo- 
 ple who walked in uprightness before God, in a degree ex- 
 ceeding any that I knew or heard of now hving : and the 
 apprehension of there being less steadiness and firmness 
 amongst people in the present age, often troubled me while I 
 was a child. 
 
 I may here mention a remarkable circumstance that occur- 
 red in my childhood. Ongoing to a neighbour's house, I saw 
 on the way a robin sitting on her nest, and as I came near she 
 went off; but having yomig ones, she flew about, and with 
 many cries expressed her concern for them. I stood and 
 threw stones at her, and one striking her, she fell down dead. 
 At first I was pleased with the exploit, but after a few minutes 
 was seized with horror, at having, in a sportive way, kUled an 
 innocent creature while she was careful for her yoimg. I be- 
 held her lying dead, and thought those youjjg ones, for which 
 she was so careful, must now perish for want of their dam to 
 nourish them. After some painful considerations on the sub- 
 ject, I climbed up the tree, took all the young birds, and kU- 
 
JOHN VOOLMAN. 8 
 
 led them ; supposing that better than to leave them to pine 
 away and die miserably. In this case I believed that scripture 
 proverb was fulfilled, " The tender mercies of the wicked are 
 cruel." I then went on my errand, and for some hours could 
 think of little else but the cruelties I had committed, and was 
 much troubled. Thus He, whose tender mercies are over all 
 his works, hath placed a principle in the human mind, which 
 incites to exercise goodness towards every living creature; 
 and this being singly attended to, people become tender- 
 hearted and sympathizing ; but when frequently and totally 
 rejected, the mind becomes shut up in a contrary disposition. 
 
 About the twelfth year of my age, my father being abroad, 
 my mother reproved me for some misconduct, to which I made 
 an xindutiful reply. The next first day, as I was with my fa- 
 ther retm-ning from meeting, he told me that he understood I 
 had behaved amiss to my mother, and advised me to be more 
 careful in future, I knew myself blameable, and in shame 
 and confusion remained silent. Being thus awakened to a 
 sense of my wickedness, I felt remorse in my mind, and, on 
 getting home, I retired and prayed to the Lord to forgive me ; 
 and I do not remember that I ever afterwards spoke unhand- 
 somely to either of my parents, however foolish in some other 
 things. 
 
 Having attained the age of sixteen years, I begaji to love 
 wanton company ; and though I was preserved from profane 
 language, or scandalous conduct, yet I perceived a plant in 
 me which produced much wild grapes : my merciful Father 
 did not however forsake me utterly, but at times, through his 
 grace, I was brought seriously to consider my ways ; and the 
 sight of my baekslidings affected me with sorrow; yet for 
 want of rightly attending to the reproofs of instruction, vanity 
 was added to vanity, and repentance to repentance. Upon 
 the whole, my mind became more and more alienated from the 
 
 a2 
 
4 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 truth, and I hastened toward destruction. While I meditate on 
 the gulf towards which I travelled, and reflect on my youth- 
 ful disobedience, for these things I weep, mine eye ninneth 
 down with water. 
 
 Advancing in age, the number of my acquaintance in- 
 creased, and thereby, my way grew more difficult. Though I 
 had fomad comfort in reading the holy scriptm'es, and thinldng 
 on heavenly things, I was now estranged therefrom. I knew I 
 was going from the flock of Chiist, and had no resolution to 
 return ; hence serious reflections were uneasy to me, and 
 youthful vanities and diversions were my greatest pleasui-e. In 
 this road I foimd many like myself; and we associated in that 
 which is adverse to true friendship. 
 
 In this swift race it pleased God to visit me with sickness, 
 so that I doubted of recovery; then did darkness, horror, and 
 amazement, with full force seize me, even when my pain and 
 distress of body were very great. I thought it would have 
 been better forme never to have had a being, than to see the 
 day which I now saw. I was filled with confusion ; and in 
 great affliction, both of miud and body, I lay and bewailed my- 
 self. I had not confidence to lift up my cries to God, whom 
 I had thus ofiended; but, in a deep sense of my great folly, I 
 was humbled before him. At length, that word which is as a 
 fire and- a hammer, broke and dissolved my rebellious heart; 
 my cries were put up in contrition; and in the multitude of 
 his mercies I found inward relief, and a close engagement, 
 that if he was pleased to restore my health, I might walk 
 humbly before him. 
 
 After my recovery, this exercise remained with me a con- 
 siderable time; but by degrees giving way to youthful vaui- 
 ties, and associating with wanton young people, I lost ground. 
 The Lord had been very gracious, and spoke peace to me in 
 the time of my distress, and I now most ungratefully turned 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 5 
 
 again to folly ; at times I felt sharp reproof, but I did not get 
 low enough to cry for help. I was not so hardy as to com- 
 mit things scandalous ; but to exceed in vanity, and to pro- 
 mote mirth, was my chief study. Still I retained a love and 
 esteem for pious people; and their company brought an awe 
 upon me. My dear parents several times admonished me in 
 the fear of the Lord, and their admonition entered into my 
 heart, and had a good effect for a season; but not getting deep 
 enough to pray rightly, the tempter when he came found 
 entrance. Once having spent a part of the day in wanton- 
 ness, when I went to bed at night there lay in a window^ near 
 my bed, a bible, which I opened, and first cast my eye on the 
 text, "We lie down in our shame, and our confusion covers 
 us." This I knew to be my case; and meeting with so un- 
 expected a reproof, 1 was somewhat affected with it, and went 
 to bed. under remorse of conscience ; which I soon cast off 
 again. 
 
 Thus time passed on ; my heart was replenished with 
 mirth and wantonness, while pleasing scenes of vanity 
 were presented to my imagination, till I attained the age of 
 eighteen years; near which time I felt the judgments of God 
 in my soul, like a consuming fire ; and looking over my past 
 life, the prospect was moving. I was often sad, and longed to 
 be delivered from those vanities ; then again, my heart was 
 strongly inclined to them, and there was in me a sore conflict. 
 At times I turned to folly, and then again sorrow and confu- 
 sion took hold of me. In a while I resolved totally to leave 
 off some of my vanities; but there was a secret reserve in my 
 heart, of the more refined part of them, and I was not low 
 enough to find true peace. Thus, for some months I had 
 great troubles ; my will was unsubjected, which rendered 
 my labours fruitless. At length, through the merciful con- 
 tinuance of heavenly visitations, I was made to bow down \i\ 
 
6 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 spirit before the Lord. One evening I had spent some time in 
 reading a pious author ; and walking out alone, I humbly 
 prayed to the Lord for his help, that I might be delivered 
 from all those vanities which so ensnared me. Thus being 
 brought low, he helped me ; and as I learned to bear the 
 cross, I felt refreshment to come from his presence ; but not 
 keeping in that strength which gave victory, I lost ground 
 again ; the sense of which greatly affected me. I sought deserts 
 and lonely places, and there with tears did confess my sins to 
 God, and humbly craved his help. And I may say with re- 
 vereifce, he was near to me in my troubles, and in those times 
 of humiliation opened my ear to discipline. I was now lead 
 to look seriously at the means by which I was drawn from the 
 pure truth, and learned that if I would live such a life as the 
 faithful servants of God lived, I must not go into company as 
 heretofore in my own will ; but all the cravings of sense must 
 be governed by a divine principle. In times of sorrow and 
 abasement these instructions were sealed upon me, and. I felt 
 the power of Christ prevail over selfish desires, so that I was 
 preserved in a good degree of steadiness ; and being young, 
 and believing at that time that a single life was best forme, I 
 was strengthened to keep from such company as had often 
 been a snare to me. 
 
 I kept steadily to meetings; spent first day afternoons 
 chiefly in reading the scriptures and other good books ; and 
 was early convinced in my mind, that true religion consisted 
 in an inward life, wherein the heart doth love and reverence 
 God the Creator, and learn to exercise true justice and good- 
 ness, not only toward all men, but also toward the brute 
 creatures— that as the mind was moved, by an inward prin- 
 ciple, to love God as an invisible, incomprehensible Being ; so 
 by the sameprinciple, it was moved to love him in all his ma- 
 nifestations ia the visible world — that as by his breath, the 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 7 
 
 flame of life was kindled in all animal sensible creatures, to 
 say we love God as miseen, and at the same time exercise 
 cruelty toward the least creature moving hy his life, or by life 
 derived from him, was a contradiction in itself. I found no 
 narrowness respecting sects and opinions ; but believed that 
 sincere upright hearted people, in every society, who truly 
 love God, were accepted of him. 
 
 As I lived under the cross, and simply followed the open- 
 ings of truth, my mind, from day to day, was more enlight- 
 ened ; my former acquaintance were left to judge of me as 
 they would, for I found it safest for me to live in private, and 
 keep these things sealed up, in my own breast. While I si- 
 lently ponder on that change wrought in me, I find no lan- 
 guage equal to convey to another a clear idea of it. I looked 
 upon the works of God in this visible creation, and an awful- 
 ness covered me. My heart was tender and often contrite, 
 and universal love to my fellow creatures increased in me. 
 This will be understood by such as have trodden in the same 
 path. Some glances of real beauty may be seen in their faces, 
 who dwell in true meekness. There is a harmony in the 
 sound of that voice to which divine love gives utterance, and 
 some appearance of right order in their temper and conduct, 
 whose passions are regulated ; yet these do not fully show 
 forth that inward life to those who have not felt it ; this 
 white stone and new name is only known rightly by such as 
 receive it. 
 
 Now, though I had been thus strengthened to bear the 
 cross, I still found myself in great danger, having many 
 weaknesses attending me, and strong temptations to wrestle 
 with ; in the feeling whereof I frequently withdrew into pri- 
 vate places, and often with tears besought the Lord to help 
 me, and his gracious ear was open to my cry. 
 
 All this time I lived with my parents, and wrought on the 
 
8 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 plantation ; and having had schooling pretty well for a plan- 
 ter, I used to improve myself in winter evenings, and other 
 leisure times. Being now in the twenty-first year of my age, 
 with my father's consent I engaged with a man, in much busi- 
 ness as a shop-keeper and baker, to tend shop and keep books. 
 At home I had lived retired ; and now having a prospect of 
 being much in the way of company, I felt frequent and fer- 
 vent cries in my heart to God, the Father of mercies, that he 
 would preserve me from all taint and corruption ; that, in 
 this more pviblic employment, I might serve Him, my gracious 
 Redeemer, in that humility and self-denial, which I had in a 
 small degree exercised in a more private life. 
 
 The man who employed me, furnished a shop in Mount 
 Holly, about five miles from my father's house, and six from 
 his own ; and there I lived alone and tended his shop. 
 Shortly after my settlement here, I was visited "by several 
 young people my former acquaintance, who supposed that 
 vanities would be as agreeable to me now as ever. At these 
 times I cried to the Lord in secret for wisdom and strength ; 
 for I felt myself encompassed with difficulties, and had fresh 
 occasion to bewail the follies of times past, in contracting a 
 familiarity with libertine people; and as I had now left my 
 father's house outwardly, I found my heavenly Father to be 
 merciful to me beyond what I can express. 
 
 By day I was much amongst people, and had many trials 
 to go through ; but in the evenings I was mostly alone, and 
 I may with thankfulness acknowledge, that in those times the 
 spirit of supplication was often poured upon me ; under which 
 I was frequently exercised, and felt my strength renewed. 
 
 After a while, my former acquaintance gave over expecting 
 me as one of their company ; and I began to be known to 
 some whose conversation was helpful to me. And now, as I 
 had experienced the love of God, through Jesus Christ, to re- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 
 
 deem me from many pollutions, and to be a succour to me 
 through a sea of conflicts, with which no person was fully ac- 
 quainted ; and as my heart was often enlarged in this heavenly 
 principle, I felt a tender compassion for the youth, who re- 
 mained entangled in snares like those which had entangled me. 
 This love and tenderness increased ; and my mind was strongly 
 engaged for the good of my fellow-creatures. I went to meet- 
 ings in an awful frame of mind, and endeavoured to be in- 
 wardly acquainted with the language of the true Shepherd. 
 One day being under a strong exercise of spirit, I stood up, 
 and said some words in a meeting ; but not keeping close to 
 the divine opening, I said more than was required of me. 
 Being soon sensible of my error, I was afflicted in mind some 
 weeks, without any light or comfort, even to that degree 
 that I could not take satisfaction in any thing. I remembered 
 God, and was troubled; and in the depth of my distress, he 
 had pity upon me, and sent the Comforter. I then felt for- 
 giveness for my offence ; my mind became calm and quiet, 
 and I was truly thankful to my gracious Redeemer for his 
 mercies. About six weeks after this, feeling the spring of 
 divine love opened, and a concern to speak, I said a few woids 
 in a meeting, in which I found peace. Being thus humbled 
 and disciplined under the cross, my understanding became 
 more, strengthened to distinguish the pure spirit which in- 
 wardly moves upon the heart, and which taught me to wait in 
 silence sometimes many weeks together, until I felt that rise 
 which prepares the creature to stand like a trumpet, through 
 which the Lord speaks to his flock. 
 
 From an inward purifying, and steadfast abiding under it, 
 springs a lively operative desire for the good of others. All 
 the faithful are not called to the public ministry; but whoever 
 are, are called to minister of that which they have tasted and 
 
 bandied spiritually. The outward modes of worship are va- 
 
 a5 
 
10 THE JOURNAL Of 
 
 rious;- but wherever any are true ministers of Jesus Christ, it 
 is from the operation of his spirit upon their hearts, first 
 purifying them, and thus giving them a just sense of the con- 
 ditions of others. This truth was early fixed in my mind ; 
 and I Was taught to watch the pure opening, and to take 
 heed lest, while I was standing to speak, my own will should 
 get uppermost, and cause me to utter words from worldly 
 wisdom, and depart from the channel of the true gospel 
 ministry. 
 
 In the management of my outward afiairs, I may say with 
 thankfulness, I found truth to be my support; and I was 
 respected in my master's family, who came to live in Mount 
 Holly within two years after my going there. 
 
 In a few months after I came here, my master bought se- 
 veral Scotchmen servants, from on board a vessel, and brought 
 them to Mount Holly to sell ; one of whom was taken sick _ 
 and died. In the latter part of 'his sickness, being delirious, 
 he used to curse and swear most sorrowfully ; and the next 
 night after his burial, I was left to sleep alone in the 
 chamber where he died. I perceived in me a timorousness ; 
 I knew, however, I had not injured the man, but assisted in 
 taking care of him according to my capacity. I was not free 
 to ask any one, on that occasion, to sleep with me. Nature 
 was f<eeble ; but every trial was a fresh incitement to give 
 myself up wholly to the service of God, for I f6und no helper 
 like him in times of trouble. 
 
 About the twenty-third year of my age, I had many fresh 
 and heavenly openings, in respect to the care and providence 
 of the Almighty over his creatures in general, and over man 
 as the most noble amongst those which are visible. And 
 being clearly convinced in myjudgment, that to place my whole 
 trust in God was best for me, I felt renewed engagements 
 that in all things I might act on an inward principle of virtue, 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 11 
 
 and pursue worldly business no further, than as truth opened 
 my way. 
 
 About the time called Christmas, I observed many people 
 both in town and from the country, resorting to pubhc-houses, 
 and spending their time in drinking and vain sports, tending 
 to corrupt one another ; on which account I was much troubled. 
 At one house in particular there was much disorder ; and I 
 believed it was a duty incumbent on me to speak to the mas- 
 ter of that house. I considered I was young, and that several 
 elderly friends in town had opportmiity to see these things ; 
 but though I would gladly have been excused, yet I could not 
 feel my mind clear. 
 
 The exercise was heavy ; and as I was reading what the 
 Ahnighty said to Ezekiel, respecting his duty as a watchman, 
 the matter was set home more clearly. With prayers and 
 tears, I besought the Lord for his assistance, and He, in loving 
 kindness, gave me a resigned heart. At a suitable opportunity 
 I went to the pubUc-house ; and seeing the man amongst 
 much company, I called him aside, and in the fear and dread 
 of the Almighty, expressed to him what rested on my mind. 
 He took it kmdly, and afterwards showed more regard to me 
 than before. In a few years afterwards he died, middle-aged ; 
 and I often thought, that had I neglected my duty in that case, 
 it would have given me great trouble ; and I was humbly 
 thankful to my gracious Father, who had supported me herein. 
 
 My employer having a negro woman, gold her, aiid desired 
 me to write a bill of sale, the man being waitmg who bought 
 her. The thing was sudden'; and though I felt uneasy at the 
 thoughts of writing an instrument of slavery for one of my 
 fellow-creatures, yet I remembered that I was hired by the 
 year, that it was my master who du'ected me to do it, and that 
 it was an elderly man, a member of our society, who bought 
 her; so through weakness, I gave way, and wrote it ; but, at 
 
12 THE JOURlSrAL OF 
 
 the executing of it, I was so afflicted in my mind, that I said 
 before my master and the friend, that I beHeved slave-keep- 
 ing to be a practice inconsistent with the Christian religion. 
 Tliis, in some degree, abated my uneasiness ; yet as often as I 
 reflected seriously upon it, I thought I should have been 
 clearer, if I had desired to be excused from it, as a thing 
 against my conscience ; for such it was. Some time after this, 
 a young man of our society, spoke to me to write a convey- 
 ance of a slave to him ; he having lately taken a negro into 
 his house. I told him I was not easy to write it ; for, though 
 many of our meeting and in other places kept slaves, I still 
 believed the practice was not right; and desired to be excused 
 from the writing. I spoke to him in good will ; and he told 
 me that keeping slaves was not altogether agreeable to his 
 mind ; but that the slave being a gift made to his wife, he had 
 accepted her. 
 
 CHAP. 11. 
 
 1743—1748. 
 
 His first journey, on a religious visit, into East Jersey .—Thoughts 
 on merchandizing, and learning a trade. — Second journey inta 
 Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. — Third 
 journey through part of West and East Jersey. — Fourth jour- 
 ney through New York and Long Island, to New England.— And 
 his fifith journey, to iJie Eastern shoi'e of Maryland, and the lower 
 Counties on Delaware. 
 
 My esteemed friend Abraham Farrington, being about to 
 make a visit to friends on the eastern side of this province, 
 and having no companion, he proposed to me to go with him ; 
 and after a conference with some elderly frieneis, I agreed to 
 go. We set out on the fifth of ninth mo. 1743 ; had an even- 
 ing meeting at a tavern in Brunswick, a town in which 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN'. IS 
 
 none of our society dwelt ; the room was full, and the people 
 quiet. Thence to Amboy, and had an evening meeting in the 
 court-house ; to which came many people, amongst whom 
 were several members of assembly, they being in town on the 
 public affairs of the province. In both these meetings my 
 ancient companion was engaged to preach largely m the love 
 of the gospel. Thence we went to Woodbridge, Raway, and 
 Plainfield ; and had six or seven meetings in places where 
 friends' meetings are not usually held, chiefly attended by 
 Presbyterians, and my beloved companion was frequently 
 strengthened to piibhsh the word of life amongst them. As 
 for me, I was often silent through the meetings ; and when I 
 spake, it was with much care, that I might speak only what 
 truth opened. My mind was often tender, and I learned 
 some profitable lessons. We were out about two weeks. 
 
 Near this time, being on some outward business in which 
 several famihes were concerned, and which was attended with 
 difEculties, some thmgs relating thereto not being clearly sta- 
 . ted, nor rightly understood by all, there arose some heat in 
 the minds of the parties, and one valuable friend got off his 
 watch. I had a great regard for him, and felt a strong incli- 
 nation, after matters were settled, to speak to him concerning 
 his conduct in that case ; but being a youth, and he far advan- 
 ced in age and experience, my way appeared difficult ; after 
 some days deliberation, and inward seeking to the Lord for 
 assistance, I was made subject; so that I expressed what lay 
 upon me, in a way which became my youth and his years ; 
 and though it was a hard task to me, it was well taken, and I 
 believe was useful to us both. 
 
 Having now been several years with my employer, and he 
 doing less in merchandize than heretofore, I was thoughtful 
 about some other way of business ; perceiving merchandize to 
 be attended with much cumber in the way of trading in these 
 parts. 
 
14 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 My mind through the power of truth, was m a good degree 
 "weaned from the desire of outward greatness, and I was learn- 
 ing to be content with real conveniences, that were not costly; 
 so that a way of life free from much entanglement, appeared 
 best for me, though the income might be small. I had several 
 offers of business that appeared profitable, but I did not see 
 my way clear to accept of them ; as believing they would be 
 attended with more outward care and cumber than was re- 
 quired of me to engage in. I saw that an humble man, with 
 the blessmg of the Lord, might live on a little ; and that where 
 the heart was set on greatness, success in business did not 
 satisfy the craving ; but that commonly with an increase of 
 wealth, the desire of wealth increased. There was a care'on 
 my mind so to pass my time, that nothing might hmder me 
 from the most steady attention to the voice of the true 
 Shepherd. 
 
 My employer, though now a retailer of goods, was by 
 trade a tailor, and kept a servant man at that business ; and I 
 began to think about learning the trade, expecting that if I 
 8 hould settle, I might, by this trade, and a little retailing of 
 goods, get a livmg in a plain way, without the load of great 
 business. I mentioned it to my employer, and we soon agreed 
 on terms ; and when I had leisure from the affairs of merchan- 
 dize, I worked with his man. I believed the hand of provi- 
 dence pointed out this business for me ; and I was taught to 
 be content with it, though I felt at times a disposition that 
 would have sought for something greater ; but, through the 
 revelation of Jesus Christ, I had seen the happiness of humi- 
 lity, and there was an earnest desire in me to enter deeply into 
 it ; at times this desire arose to a degree of fervent supplica- 
 tion, wherein my soul was so environed with heavenly light 
 and consolation, that things were made easy to me which had 
 been otherwise. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 15 
 
 After some time my employer's wife died ; she was a vir- 
 tuous woman, and generally beloved of her neighbours. Soon 
 after this he left shopkeeping, and we parted. I then 
 wrought at my trade, as a tailor ; carefully attended meetings 
 for worship and discipline ; and found an enlargement of gos- 
 pel love in my mind, and therein a concern to visit friends in 
 some of the back settlements of Pennsylvania and Virginia. 
 Being thoughtful about a companion, I expressed it to my 
 beloved friend, Isaac Andrews, who told me that he had 
 - drawings to the same places ; and also to go through Mary- 
 land, Virginia, and Carolina. After a considerable time, 
 and several conferences with him, I felt easy to accompany 
 him throughout, if way opened for it. I opened the case 
 in our monthly-meeting, and friends expressing their unity 
 therewith, we obtained certificates to travel as companions ; 
 he from Haddonfield, and I from Burlington. 
 
 We left our province on the twelfth of third month, 1746, 
 and had several meetings in the upper part of Chester county, 
 and near Lancaster ; in some of which the love of Christ pre- 
 vailed, imiting us together in his service. We then crossed 
 the river Susquehannah, and had several meetings in a new 
 settlement, called the Eed Lands. It is the poorer sort of 
 people that commonly begin to improve remote deserts ; with 
 a small stock they have houses to build, lands to clear and 
 fence, com to raise, clothes to provide, and children to edu- 
 cate ; so that friends who visit such may well sympathize with 
 them in their hardships in the wilderness ; and though the 
 best entertainment that they can give, may seem coarse to 
 . some who are used to cities, or old settled places, it becomes 
 the disciples of Christ to be therewith content. Our hearts 
 were sometimes enlarged in the love of our heavenly Father 
 amongst these people ; and the sweet influence of his spirit 
 supported us through some difficulties : to Him be the praise. 
 
16 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 We passed on to Manoquacy, Fairfax, Hopewell, and 
 Shanando, and had meetings ; some of which were comfort- 
 able and edifying. From Shanando, we set off in the afternoon 
 for the old settlements of friends in Virginia; the first night 
 we, with our guide, lodged in the woods, our horses feeding 
 near us ; but he being poorly provided with a horse, and we 
 young, and having good horses, were free the next day to 
 part with him. In two days after, we reached our friend John 
 Cheagle's, in Virginia. We took the meetings in our way 
 through Virginia ; were in some degree baptized into a feel- 
 ing sense of the conditions of the people ; and our exercise in 
 general was more painful in these old settlements, than it had 
 been amongst the back inhabitants ; yet through the good- 
 ness of our heavenly Father, the well of living waters was at 
 times opened to our encouragement, and the refreshment of 
 the sincere-hearted. We went on to Perquimons, in North 
 Carolina; had several large meetings, and found some open- 
 ness in those parts, and a hopeful appearance amcngst the 
 young people. Afterwards we turned again to Virginia, and 
 attended most of the meetings which we had not been at be- 
 fore, labouring amongst friends in the love of Jesus Christ, as 
 ability was given ; thence went to the mountains, up James' 
 river to a new settlement, and had several meetings amongst 
 the people, some of whom had lately joined in membership 
 with our society. In our journeying to and fro, we found 
 some honest-hearted friends, who appeared to be concerned 
 for the cause of truth among a backsliding people. 
 
 From Virginia, we crossed over the river Patomac, at Hce's 
 ferry, and made a general visit to the meetings offriends on 
 the western shore of Maryland; and were at their quarterly 
 meeting. We had some hard labour amongst them, endea- 
 vouring to discharge our duty honestly as way opened, in the 
 love of truth. Thence taking sundry meetings in our way. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 17 
 
 we passed towards home v/hich, through the favour of Divine 
 Providence, we reached the sixteenth of sixth month, 1746; 
 and I may say, that through the assistance of the Holy Spirit, 
 which mortifies selfish desires, my companion and I travelled 
 in harmony, and parted in the nearness of true brotherly 
 love. 
 
 Two things were remarkable to me in this journey: 
 first, in regard to my entertainment; when I ate, drank, 
 and lodged free-cost with people, who lived in ease on 
 the hard labour of their slaves, I felt uneasy ; and as my mind 
 was inward to the Lord, I found this uneasiness return upon 
 me, at times, through the whole visit. Where the ni#ters 
 bore a good share of the burden, and lived frugally, so that 
 their servants were well provided for, and their labour mode- 
 rate, I felt more easy ; but where they lived in a costly way, 
 and laid heavy burdens on their slaves, my exercise was 
 often great, and I frequently had conversation with them 
 in private concerning it. Secondly; this trade of importing 
 slaves from their native country being much encouraged 
 amongst them, and the white people and their children so 
 generally living without much labour, was frequently the 
 subject of my serious thoughts. I saw in these southern 
 provinces so many vices and corruptions, increased by this 
 trade, and this way of life, that it appeared to me as a dark 
 gloominess hanging over the land; and though now many 
 willingly run into it, yet in future the consequence will be 
 grievous to posterity. I express it as it hath appeared to me, 
 not once, nor twice, but as a matter fixed on my mind. 
 
 Soon after my return home, I felt an increasing concern 
 for friends on our sea coast ; and on the eighth of eighth 
 month, 1746, I left home with the unity of friends, and in 
 company with my beloved friend and neighbour Peter An- 
 drews, brother to my companion before-mentioned, and visited 
 
18 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 them in their meetings generally about Salem, Cape May, 
 Great and Little Egg Harbour; we had meetings also at 
 Barnagat, Manahockin, and Mane Squan, and so to the yearly 
 meeting at Shrewsbury. Through the goodness of the Lord 
 way was opened, and the strength of divine love was some- 
 times felt in our assemblies, to the comfort and help of those 
 who were rightly concerned before Him. We were out 
 twenty-two days, and rode, by computation, three hundred 
 and forty miles. At Shrewsbury yearly meeting, we met 
 with our dear friends Michael Lightfoot and Abraham Far- 
 rington, who had good service there. 
 
 %The winter following died my eldest sister Elizabeth 
 Woolman, jmi., of the small pox, aged thirty-one years. 
 
 Of late I found drawings in my mind to visit friends iu 
 New England, and having an opportunity of joining in com- 
 pany with my beloved friend Peter Andrews, we obtained 
 certificates from our monthly meeting, and set forward on the 
 sixteenth of third month, 1747. We reached the yearly 
 meeting at Long Island ; at which were our friends Samuel 
 Nottingham from England, John Griffith, Jane Hoskins, and 
 Elizabeth Hudson from Pennsylvania, and Jacob Andrews 
 from Chesterfield ; several of whom were favoured in their 
 public exercise ; and, through the goodness of the Lord, we 
 had some edifying meetings. After this my companion and I 
 visited friends ou Long Island ; and through the mercies of 
 God, we were helped in the work. 
 
 Besides going to the settled meetings of friends, we were 
 at a general meeting at Setawket, chiefly made up of other so- 
 cieties; we had also a meeting at Oyster Bay in a dwelling 
 house, at which were many people ; at the former there was 
 not much said by way of testimony, but it was, I believe, a 
 good meeting; at the latter, through the springing up of 
 * For an account of this interesting young person^ see Appendix. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 19 
 
 living waters, it was a day to be thankfully remembered. 
 Having visited the island, we went over to the main, taking 
 meetings in our way, to Oblong, Nine-partners, and New- 
 Milford. In these back settlements we met with several peo- 
 ple who, through the immediate workings of the spirit of 
 Christ on their minds, were drawn from the vanities of the 
 world to an inward acquaintance with him. They were edu- 
 cated iu the way of the Presbyterians. A considerable num- 
 ber of the youth, members of that society, used often to spend 
 their time together in merriment , but some of the principal 
 young men of the company, being visited by the powerful 
 workings of the spirit of Christ, and thereby led humbly to 
 take up his cross, could no longer join in those vanities. As 
 these stood steadfast to that inward convincement, they were 
 made a blessing to some of their former companions ; so that 
 through the power of truth, several were brought into a close 
 exercise concerning the eternal well-being of their souls. 
 These young people continued for a time to frequent their 
 public worship ; and besides that, had meetings of their own; 
 which meetings were a while allowed by their preacher, who 
 sometimes met with them ; but in time their judgment in 
 matters of religion, disagreeing with some of the articles of 
 the Presbyterians, their meetings were disapproved by that 
 society ; and such of them as stood firm to their duty, as it 
 was inwardly manifested, had many difficulties to go through. 
 In awhile their meetings were dropped ; some of them re- 
 turned to the Presbyterians, and others joined to our religi- 
 ous society. 
 
 I had conversation with some of the latter, to my help 
 and edification ; and believe several of them are acquainted 
 with the nature of that worship, which is performed in spirit 
 and in truth. Amos Powel, a friend from Long Island, ac- 
 companied me through Connecticut, which is chiefly inhabited 
 
20 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 by Presbyterians ; wbo were generally civil to us. After three 
 days riding, we came amongst friends in the colony of Ehode 
 Island, and visited them in and about Newport, Dartmouth, 
 and generally in those parts ; we then went to Boston, and 
 proceeded eastward as far as Dover. Not far from thence, we 
 met our friend Thomas Gawthorp from England, who was 
 then on a visit to these provinces. From Newport we sailed 
 to Nantucket ; were there nearly a week ; and from thence 
 came over to Dartmouth. Having finished our visit in these 
 parts, we crossed the Sound from New^ London to Long. 
 Island; and taking some meetings on the island, proceeded 
 towards home ; which we reached- the thirteenth of seventh 
 month, 1747, having rode about fifteen hundred miles, and 
 sailed about one hundred and fifty. 
 
 In this journey, I may say in general, we «vere sometimes 
 in much weakness, and laboured under discouragements ; and 
 at other times, through the renewed manifestations of divine 
 love, we had seasons of refreshment, wherein the power of truth 
 prevailed. We were taught, by renewed experience, to 
 labour for an inward stillness; at no time to seek for 
 words, but to live in the spirit of truth, and utter that to 
 the pebple which truth opened in us. My beloved companion 
 and I belonged both to one meeting, came forth in the ministry 
 near the same time, and were inwardly united in the work. 
 He was about thirteen years older than I, bore the heaviest 
 burden, and vfas an instrument of the greatest use. 
 
 Finding a concern to visit friends in the lower counties of 
 Delaware, and on the eastern shore of Maryland, and having 
 an opportunity to join with my well-beloved ancient friend John 
 Sykes, we obtained certificates, and set off the seventh of eighth 
 month, 1748, were at the meetings of friends in the lower coun- 
 ties, attended the yearly meeting at Little Creek, and made a 
 visit to most -of the meetings on the Eastern shore ; and so 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 21 
 
 home by the way of Nottingham. We were abroad about 
 six weeks; and rode by computation, about five hundred and 
 fifty miles. 
 
 Our exercise at times was heavy ; but through the goodness 
 of the Lord, we were often refreshed ; and I may say by ex- 
 perience, " He is a strong hold in the day of trouble." 
 Though our society, in these parts, appeared to me to be in a 
 declining condition ; yet I believe the Lord hath a people 
 amongst them, wlio labour to serve him uprightly ; but they 
 have many difficulties to encounter. 
 
 CHAP. HL 
 1749—1756. 
 
 His marriage. — The death of his father. — His journies into the tip- 
 per part of JSfew Jersey, and afterwards into Pennsylvania. — Con* 
 siderations on keeping slaves, and visits to the families of friends 
 at several times ajid places. — An epislle from, the general meeting. — 
 His Journey to Long Island. — Considerations on trading, and on 
 the use of spirituous liquors and costly apparel. — Letter to a 
 friend. 
 
 About this time believing it good for me to settle, and 
 thinking seriously about a companion, my heart was turned to 
 the Lord, with desires that he would give me wisdom to 
 proceed therein agreeably to his will ; and he was pleased to 
 give me a well-inclined damsel, Sarah Ellis ; to whom I was 
 married the eighteenth of eighth month 1749. 
 
 In the fall of the year 1750 died my father, Samuel AVool- 
 man, of a fever, aged about sixty years. In his life-time he 
 manifested much care for us his children, that in our youth we 
 might leam to fear the Lord ; and often endeavoured to im- 
 print in our minds the true principles of virtue, and particu- 
 larly to cherish in us a spirit of tenderness, not only towards 
 
22 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 poor people, but also towards all creatures of which we had 
 the command. 
 
 After my return from Carolina in 1746, I made some ob- 
 servations on keeping slaves, which sometime before his decease 
 I showed to him; he perusedthe manuscript, proposed a few 
 alterations, and appeared well satisfied that I found a concern, 
 on th^t account. In his last sickness, as I was watching with 
 him one night, he being so far spent that there was no expec- 
 tation of his recovery, though he had the perfect use of his 
 understanding, he asked me concerning the manuscript, and_ 
 whether I expected soon to proceed to take the advice of friends 
 in publishing it ? After some further conversation thereon, he 
 said, " I have all along been deeply affected with the oppres- 
 sion of the poor negroes; and now, at last, my concern for 
 them is as great as ever." 
 
 By his direction I had written his will in a time of health, 
 and that night he desired me to read it to him, which I did ; 
 and he said it was agreeable to his mind. He then made 
 mention of his end, which he believed was near ; and signified 
 that though he was sensible of many imperfections in the 
 course of his life, yet his experience of the power of truth, and 
 of the love and goodness of God from time to time, even till 
 now, was such, that he had no doubt that in leaving this life, 
 he should enter into one -more happy. 
 
 The next day, his sister Elizabeth came to see him, and 
 told him of the decease of their sister Anne, who died a few 
 days before ; he then said, " I reckon sister Anne was free to 
 leave this world ?" Elizabeth said she was. He then said, " I 
 also am free to leave it ;" and being in great weakness of body 
 said, " I hope I shall shortly go to rest." He continued in a 
 weighty frame of mind, and was sensible till near the last. 
 
 Second of ninth month, 1751. Feeling drawings in my 
 mind to visit friends at the Great Meadows, in the upper part 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 23 
 
 of West Jersey, with the unity of our monthly meeting, I 
 went there, and had some searching laborious exercise amongst 
 friends in those parts, and found inward peace therein. 
 
 Ninth month, 1753. In company with my well-esteemed 
 friend John Sykes, and with the unity of friends, I travelled 
 about two weeks visiting friends in Buck's County. We 
 laboured in the love of the gospel, according to the measure 
 received ; and through the mercies of Him, who is strength to 
 the poor who trust in Him, we found satisfaction in our visit. 
 In the next winter, way opening to visit friends' families 
 within the compass of our monthly meeting, partly by the 
 labours of two friends from Pennsylvania, I joined in some 
 part of the work, having had a desire some time that it might 
 go forward amongst us. 
 
 About this time, a person at some distance lying sick, his 
 brother came to me to write his will. I knew he had slaves ; 
 and, asking his brother, was told he intended to leave them as 
 slaves to his children. As writing is a profitable employ, and 
 as offending sober people was disagreeable to my inclination, I 
 was straitened in my mind ; but as I looked to the Lord, he 
 inclined my heart to his testimony. I told the man, that I 
 believed the practice of continuing slavery to this people was 
 not right, and that I had a scruple in my mind against doing 
 writings of that kind ; that though many in our society kept 
 them as slaves, still I was not easy to be concerned in it, and 
 desired to be excused from going to write the will. I spake to 
 him in the fear of the Lord ; and he made no reply to what I 
 said, but went away; he also had some concerns in the prac- 
 tice ; and I thought he was displeased with me. In this case 
 I had fresh confirmation, that acting contrary to present out- 
 ward interest, from a motive of divine love, and in regard to 
 truth and righteousness, and thereby incurring the resentments 
 of people, opens the way to a treasure better than silver, and to 
 a friendship exceeding the friendship of men. 
 
24 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 The manuscript before-mentioned having laid by me se- 
 veral years, the publication of it rested weightily upon me ; 
 and this year I offered it to the revisal of my friends, who 
 having examined, and made some small alterations in it, direc- 
 ted a number of copies thereof to be published and dispersed 
 amongst members of our society. 
 
 In the year 1754, I found my mind drawn to join in a visit 
 to friends' families belonging to Chesterfield monthly meeting; 
 and having the approbation of our own, I went to their 
 monthly meeting in order to confer with friends, and see if 
 way opened for it. I had conference with some of their mem- 
 bers, the proposal having been opened before in their meeting, 
 and one friend agreed to join with me as a companion for a 
 beginning ; but when meeting was ended, I felt great distress 
 of mind, and doubted what way to take, or whether to go 
 home and wait for greater clearness. I kept my distress secret, 
 and going with a friend to his house, my desires were to the 
 great Shepherd for his heavenly instruction. In the morn- 
 ing I felt easy to proceed on the visit, though very low in my 
 mind. As mine eye was turned to the Lord, waiting in fami- 
 lies in deep reverence before Him. He was pleased graciously 
 to afford help ; so that we had many comfortable opportunities, 
 and it appeared as a fresh visitation to some young people. I 
 spent several weeks this winter in the service ; part of which 
 time was employed near home. And again in the following 
 winter I was several weeks in the same service ; some part of 
 the time at Shrewsbury, in company with my beloved friend, 
 John Sykes ; and I have cause humbly to acknowledge, that 
 through the goodness of the Lord, our hearts were at times 
 enlarged in his love ; and strength was given to go through 
 the trials which, in the course of our visit, attended us. 
 
 From a disagreement between the powers of England and 
 France, it was now a time of trouble on this continent; and 
 an epistle to friends went forth from our general sjiring 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 26 
 
 meeting, which I thought good to give a place in this journal. 
 
 An Epistle from our general spring jneeting of ministers and 
 elders for Pennsyloania and New Jersey, held at Philadelphia, 
 from the twenty-ninth of the third month, to the first of the fourth 
 month, inclusive, 1755. 
 
 To Friends on the Continent ofAmerica. 
 
 Dear Friends, 
 In an humble_sense of divine goodness, and the gracious 
 continuation of God's love to his people, we tenderly salute 
 you ; and are at this time therein engaged in mind, that all of 
 us who profess the truth, as held forth and published by our 
 worthy predecessors in this latter age of the world, may keep 
 near to that hfe which is the light of men, and be strengthened 
 to hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering, that 
 our trust may not be in man, but in the Lord alone, whoruleth 
 in the army of heaven, and in the kingdoms of men, before 
 whom the earth is "as the dust of the balance, and her 
 inhabitants as grasshoppers." Isa. xl. 22. 
 
 Being convinced that the gracious design of the Almighty 
 in sending his Son into the world, was to repair the breach 
 made by disobedience, to finish sin and transgression, that his 
 kingdom might come, and his will be done on earth as it ia 
 in heaven, we have found it to be our duty to cease from those 
 national contests which are productive of misery and blood- 
 shed, and submit our cause to Him, the Most High, whose 
 tender love to his children exceeds the most warm affections 
 of natural parents, and who hath promised to his seed through- 
 out the earth, as to one individual, " I will never leave thee, nor 
 forsake thee." Heb. xiii. 5. And we, through the gracious 
 dealings of the Lord our God, have had experience of that 
 work which is carried on, not by earthly might, nor by power, 
 but by my spirit, saith the Lord of Hosts. " Zech. iv. 6. By 
 
2« THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 which operation, that spiritual kingdom is set up, which is to 
 subdue and break in pieces all kuygdoms that oppose it, and 
 shall stand for ever. In a deep sense thereof, and, of the 
 safety, stability, and peace that are in it, we are desirous that 
 all who profess the truth, may be inwardly acquainted with 
 it, and thereby be qualified to conduct ourselves in all parts 
 of our life, as becomes our peaceable profession : and we 
 trust, as there is a faithful ccn'iinuance to depend wholly upon 
 the almi ghty arm, from one generation to another, the peace- 
 able kingdom will gradually be extended " from sea to sea, 
 and from theriver to the ends of the earth. " Zech. ix. 10. 
 to the •completion of those prophecies already begun, that 
 " nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, nor learn 
 war any more." Isa. ii. 4. Micah. iv. 3. 
 
 And, dearly beloved friends, seeing we have these pro- 
 mises, and believe that God is beginning to fulfil them, let us 
 constantly endeavour to have our minds sufficiently disen- 
 tangled from the surfeiting cares of this life, and redeemed 
 from the love of the world, that no earthly possessions nor 
 enjoyments may bias our judgments, or turn ns from that 
 resignation and entire trust in God, to which his blessing is 
 most surely annexed ; then may we say, " Our redeemer 
 is mighty, he will plead our cause for us." Jer. 1. 34. 
 And if, for the further promoting of his most gracious pur- 
 poses in the earth, he should give us to taste of that bitter 
 cup of which his faithful ones have often partaken-; O that 
 we may be rightly prepared to receive it ! 
 
 And now, dear friends, with respect to the commotions 
 and stirrings of the powers of the earth at this time near us, 
 we are desirous that none of us may be moved thereat ; but 
 repose ourselves in the munition of that rock which all these 
 shakings shall not move, even in the knowledge and feeling 
 of the eternal power of God, keeping us subjectly giv^n up to 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 27 
 
 lis heavenly will, and feeling it daily to mortify that which 
 remains in any of us which is of this world ; for the worldly 
 part in any, is the changeable part, and that is up and down, 
 full and empty, joyful and sorrowful, as things go well or ill 
 in this world. For as the truth is but one, and many are 
 made partakers of its spirit, so the world is but one, and 
 many are made partakers of the spirit of it ; and so many aa 
 do partake of it, so many will be straitened and perplexed 
 with it. But they who are single to the truth, waiting daily 
 to feel the life and virtue of it in their hearts, shall rejoice in 
 the midst of adversity, and have to experience with the pro- 
 phet, that, "although the fig-tree shall not blossom, neither 
 shall fruit be in the vines ; the labour of the olive shall fail, 
 and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off 
 from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls; yet 
 will they rejoice in the Lord, and joy in the God of their 
 salvation." Hab. iii. 17, 18. 
 
 If, contrary to this, we profess the truth, and not living 
 under the power and, influence of it, are producing fruits dis- 
 agreeable to the purity thereof, and trust to the strength of 
 man to support ourselves, our confidence therein will be vain. 
 For he who removed the hedge from his vineyard, and gave it 
 to be trodden under foot, by reason of the wild grapes it pro- 
 duced, (Isa. v. 6.) remains unchangeable; and if, for the 
 chastisement of wickedness, and the further promoting of his 
 own glory, he doth arise, even to shake terribly the earth, 
 who then may oppose him, and prosper ! 
 
 We remain, in the love of the gospel, your friends and 
 
 brethren. 
 
 Signed by fourteen friends. 
 
 Scrupling to do writings relative to keeping slaves, has 
 
 been a means of sundry small trials to me, in which I have so 
 
 evidently felt my own will set aside, I think it good to mention 
 
 b3 
 
28 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 a few of them. Tradesmen and retailers of goods, who depend 
 on their business for a living, are naturally inclined to keep 
 the good will of their customers ; nor is it a pleasant thing for 
 young men to be under any necessity to question the judgment 
 or honesty of elderly men, and more especially of such as 
 have a fair reputation. Deep-rooted customs, though wrong, 
 are not easily altered ; but it is the duty of all to be firm.in 
 that which they certainly know is right for them. A chari- 
 table, benevolent man, well acquainted with a negro, may I 
 believe, under some circumstances, keep him in his family as 
 a servant, on no other motives than the negro's good ; but 
 man, as man, knows not what shall be after him, nor hath he 
 any assurance that his children vtill attain to that perfection 
 in wisdom and goodness, necessary rightly to exercise such 
 power; hence it is clear to me, that I ought not to be the 
 scribe where wills are drawn, in which some children are 
 made absolute masters over others during life. 
 
 About this time, an ancient man of good esteem in the 
 neighbourhood, came to my house to get his will written. 
 He had young negroes ; and I asked him privately how he 
 purposed to dispose .of them. He told me ; I then said, I 
 cannot write thy will without breaking my own peace ; and 
 respectfully gave him my reasons for it. He signified that he 
 had a chpice that I should have written it ; but as I coold 
 not, "consistently with my conscience, he did not desire it; 
 and so he got it written by some other person. A few years 
 after, there being great alterations in his family, he came 
 agam to get me to write his will. His negroes were yet young ; 
 and his son, to whom he intended to give them, was, since he 
 first spoke to me, from a libertine, become a sober young 
 man ; and he supposed that I would have been free on that 
 account to write it. We had much friendly talk on the sub- 
 ject, and then deferred it. A few days after he came again, 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 29 
 
 and directed their freedom ; and I then wrote his will. 
 
 Near the time that the last mentioned friend first spoke 
 to me, a neighbour received a had bruise in his body, and sent 
 for me to bleed him ; which having done, he desired me to 
 write his will. I took notes ; and amongst other things, he 
 told me to which 6f his children he gave his young negro. I 
 considered the pain and distress he was in, and knew not how 
 it would end ; so I wrote his will, save only that part con- 
 cerning his slave, and carrying it to his bedside, read it to 
 him. I then told him in a friendly way, that I could not 
 write any iostruments by which my fellow-creatures were 
 made slaves, without bringing trouble on my own mind. I let 
 him know that I charged nothing for what I had done, 
 and desired to be excused from doing the other part in the 
 way he proposed. We then had a serious conference on the 
 subject ; at length, he agreeing to set her free, I finished his 
 will. 
 
 Having found drawings in my mind to visit friends on 
 Long Island, after obtaining a certificate from our monthly 
 meeting, I set off twelfth of fifth month, 1756. When I 
 reached the island, 1 lodged the first night at the house of my 
 dear friend Eichard Hallet. The next day, being the first of 
 the week, I was at the meeting in New Town; in which we 
 experienced the renewed manifestations of the love of Jesus 
 Christ, to the comfort of the honest-hearted. I went that 
 night to Flushing; and the next day, I and my beloved friend 
 Matthew Franklin, crossed the ferry at White Stone; were at 
 three meetings on the main, and then returned to the island ; 
 where I spent the remainder of the week in visiting meetings. 
 The Lord I believe hath a pepple in those parts, who are 
 honestly inclined to serve him; but many, I fear, are too 
 much clogged with the things of this life, and do not come 
 forward bearing the cross in sucli faithfulness as He calls for. 
 
80 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 My mind was deeply engaged in this visit, both in public 
 and private ; and, at several places where 1 was, on observing 
 that they had slaves, I found myself under a necessity, in a 
 friendly way, to labour with them on that subject; expressing 
 as way opened, the inconsistency of that practice with the 
 purity of the Christian religion, and the ill-effects of it mani- 
 fested amongst us. 
 
 The latter end of the week their yearly meeting began ; 
 at which were our friends John Scarborough, Jane Hoskins, 
 and Susannah Brown, from Pennsylvania. The public 
 meetings were large, and measurably favoured .with divine 
 goodness. The exercise of my mind, at this meeting, was 
 chiefly on account of those who were considered as the fore- 
 most rank in the society ; and in a meeting of ministers and 
 elders, way opened for me to express in some measure what 
 lay upon me ; and when fi'iends were met for transacting the 
 affairs of the church, having sat a while silent, I felt a weight 
 on my mind, and stood up ; and through the gracious re- 
 gard of our heavenly Father, strength was given fully to clear 
 myself of a burden, which for some days had been in- 
 creasing upon me. 
 
 Through the humblingdispensationsof Divine Providence, 
 men are sometimes fitted for his service. The messages of 
 the prophet Jeremiah wore so disagreeable to the people, aiid 
 so adverse to the spirit they lived in, that he became the 
 object of their reproach ; and in the weakness of nature, he 
 thought of desisting from his prophetic office ; but saith he, 
 "His word was in my heart as a burning fire shut v up in my 
 bones; and I was weary with forbearing, and could not 
 stay." I saw at this time, that if I was honest in declaring 
 that which truth opened in me, I could not please all men; 
 and I laboured to be content in the way of my duty, however 
 disagreeable to my own inclination. After this I went hojiie-r 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 81 
 
 ward, taking Woodbridge and Plainfield in my way ; in both 
 which meetings, the pure influence of divine love was mani- 
 fested ; in an humbling sense whereof I went home. I had 
 been out about twenty-four days, and rode about three hun- 
 dred and sixteen miles. 
 
 While I was out on this journey, my heart was much 
 affected with a sense of the state of the churches in our 
 southern provinces ; and believing the Lord was calling me 
 to some further labour amongst them, I was bowed in rev- 
 erence before Him, with fervent desires that I might find 
 strength to resign myself to his heavenly will. 
 
 Until this year, 1756, I continued to retail goods, besides 
 following my trade as a tailor ; about which time I grew un- 
 easy on account oCmj business growing too cumbersome. 
 I had begun with selling trimmings for garments, and from 
 thence proceeded to sell cloths and linens ; and at lengthy 
 having got a considerable shop of goods, my trade increased 
 every year, and the way to large business appeared open j but 
 I felt a stop in my mind. 
 
 Through the mercies of the Almighty, I had, in a good 
 degree, learned to be content with a plain way of living. I 
 had but a small family ; and on serious consideration, 
 believed truth did not require me to engage much in cumber- 
 ing affairs. It had been my general practice to buy and sell 
 things really useful. Things that served chiefly to please 
 the vain mind in people, I was not easy to trade in ; seldom 
 did it ; and whenever I did, I found it weaken me as a 
 Christian. 
 
 The increase of business became my burden ; for though 
 my natural inclination was toward merchandize, yet I be- 
 lieved truth required me to live more free from outward 
 cumbers : and there was now a strife in my mind between the 
 two. la this exercise my prayers were put up to the Lord, 
 
32 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 who graciously heard me, and gave me a heart resigned to his 
 holy will. Then I lessened my outward business ; and as I 
 had opportunity, told my customers of my intentions, that 
 they might consider what shop to turn to ; and in a while I 
 wholly laid down merchandize, and followed my trade as a 
 tailor by myself, having no apprentice. I also had a nursery 
 of apple-trees ; iu which I employed some of my time in 
 hoeing, grafting, trimming, and inoculating. In merchandize 
 it is. the custom, where I lived, to sell chiefly on credit, and 
 poor people often get in debt ; when payment is expected, not 
 having wherewith to pay, their creditors often sue for it at law. 
 Having frequently observed occurrences of this kind, I found 
 it good for me to advise poor people to take such goods as 
 were most useful, and not costly. 
 
 In the time of trading, I had an opportunity of seeing 
 that the too liberal use of spirituous liquors, and the custom 
 of wearing too costly apparel, led some people into great in- 
 conveniences ; and that these two things appear to be often 
 connected with each other. By not attending to that use of 
 things, which is consistent with universal righteousness, there 
 is an increase of labour which extends beyond what our 
 heavenly Father intends for us. And by great labour, and 
 often by much sweating, there is even among such as are not 
 drunkards, a craving of liquors to revive the spirits ; that 
 partly by the luxurious drinking of some, and partly by the 
 drinking of others, (led to it through immoderate labour) 
 very great quantities of rum are every year expended in our 
 colonies ; the greater part of which we should have no need 
 of, did we steadily attend to pure wisdom. 
 
 When men take pleasure in feeling their minds elevated 
 with strong drink, and so indulge their appetite as to disorder 
 their understandings, neglect their duty as members of a 
 family or civil society, and cast off all regard to religion, their 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 33 
 
 case is much to he pitied. And where those whose Uves are 
 for the most part regular, and whose examples have a strong 
 influence on the minds of others, adhere to some customs 
 which powerfully draw to the use of more strong liquor 
 than pure wisdom allows ; it hinders the spreading of the 
 spirit of meekness, and strengthens the hands of the more ex- 
 cessive drinkers. This is a case to be lamented. 
 
 Every degree of luxury hath some connexion with evil ; 
 and if those who profess to be disciples of Christ, and are 
 looked upon as leaders of the people, have that mind in them 
 which was also in Christ, and so stand separate from every 
 wrong way, it is a means of help to the weaker. As I have 
 sometimes been much spent in the heat, and have taken spirits 
 to revive me, I have found by experience, that in such cir- 
 cumstances the mind is not so calm, nor so fitly disposed for 
 divine raeditation, as when all such extremes are avoided. I 
 have felt an increasing care to attend to that holy Spirit 
 which sets right bounds to our desires ; and leads those who 
 faithfully follow it, to apply all the gifts of Divine Providence 
 to the purposes for which they were intended. Did those 
 who have the care of great estates, attend with singleness of 
 heart to this heavenly Instructor, which so opens and enlarges 
 the mind, as to cause men to love their neighbours as them- 
 .selves, they would have wisdom given them to manage their 
 concerns, without employing some people in providing the 
 luxuries of life, or others in labouring too hard; but for 
 want of steadily regarding this principle of divine love, a 
 selfish spirit takes place in the minds of people, which is 
 attended with darkness, and manifold confusions in the world. 
 
 Though trading in things useful is an honest employ ; yet 
 
 through the great number of superfluities which are bought 
 
 and sold, and through the corruption of the times, they who 
 
 apply to merchandize for a living, have great need to be well 
 
 *b4 
 
84 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 experienced in that precept which the prophet Jeremiah laid 
 down for his scribe ; " Seekest thou great things for thyself? 
 seek them not." 
 
 In the winter this year, I was engaged with friends in visit- • 
 ing families ; and through the goodness of the Lord, we 
 often times experienced his heart-tendering presence amongst 
 us. 
 
 ■A Copy of a Letter mr'Uten to a friend. 
 
 " In this thy late affliction I have found a deep fellow- 
 feeling with thee ; and have had a secret hope throughout, 
 that it might please the Father of mercies to raise thee up, 
 and sanctify thy troubles to thee ; that thou being more fully 
 acquainted with that way which the world esteems foolish, 
 mayst feel the clothing of divine fortitude, and be strengthened 
 to resist that spirit, which leads from the simplicity of the 
 everlasting truth. 
 
 We may see ourselves crippled and halting, and from a 
 strong bias to things pleasant and easy, find an impossibility 
 to advance forward ; but things impossible with men are 
 possible with God; and our wills being made subject to his, 
 all temptations are surmountable. 
 
 This work of subjecting the will, is compared to the 
 mineral in the furnace ; which, through fervent heat, is re- 
 duced from its first principle; " He refines them as silver is 
 refined — he shall sit as a refiner, and purifier of silver." By 
 these comparisons, we are instructed in the necessity of tha 
 melting operation of the hand of God upon us, to prepare our 
 hearts truly to adore Tlim, and manifest that adoration, by 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 88 
 
 inwardly turning away from that spirit, in all its workings, 
 which is not of Him. To forward this work, the all-wise 
 God is sometimes pleased, through outward distress, to bring 
 us near the gates of death ; that life being painful and afflict- 
 ing, and the prospect of eternity open before us, all earthly 
 bonds may be loosened, and the mind prepared for that 
 deep and sacred instruction, which otherwise would not be 
 received. If kind parents love their children, and delight in 
 their happiness, then he who is. perfect goodness, in sending 
 abroad mortal contagions, doth assuredly direct their use — 
 Are the righteous removed by it ? their change is happy. 
 Are the wicked taken away in -their wickfrdiiess ? the Al- 
 mighty is clear. Do we pass through with anguish and great 
 bitterness, and yet recover? He intends that we should be 
 purged from dross, and our ear opened to discipline. 
 
 And now, as thou art again restored, after thy sore afflic- 
 tion and doubts of recovery, forget not Him who hath helped 
 thee; but in humble gratitude hold fast his instructions, and 
 thereby shun those bye-paths which lead from the firm foun- 
 dation. I am sensible of that variety of company, to which 
 one in thy business must be exposed ; I have painfully felt 
 the force of conversation proceeding from men deeply rooted 
 in an earthly mind, and can sympathize with others in such 
 conflicts, because much weakness still attends me. 
 
 I find that to be a fool as to worldly wi.sdom, and to com- 
 mit my cause to God, not fearing to offend men, who take 
 offence at the simplicity of truth, is the only way to remain 
 unmoved at the sentiments of-others. 
 
 The fear of man brings a snare. By halting in our duty, 
 and giving back in the time of trial, our hands grow weaker, 
 our spirits get mingled with the people, our ears grow dull 
 as to hearing the langU3ge of the true Shepherd ; so that 
 when we look at the way of the righteous, it seems as though 
 it was not for us to follow them. 
 
36 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 A love clothes my mind while I write, which is superior 
 ■to all expression ; and I find my heart open to encourage to 
 a holy emulation, to advance forward in Christian firmness. 
 -Deep humility is a strong bulwark ; and as we enter into it, 
 we find safety and true exaltation. The foolishness of God is 
 wiser than man, and the weakness of God is stronger than man. 
 Being unclothed of our own wisdom, and knowing the abase- 
 ment of the creature, we find that power to arise which 
 ■gives health and vigour to us." 
 
 CgAP. IV. 
 
 1757—1758. 
 
 Visit to the families of friends at Burlington — Journey to 
 Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina — Con- 
 siderations on the state of friends there; and the exercise 
 he was under in travelling among those so genei-ally concerned in 
 ' keeping slaves ; with some observations on this subject. — Epistle 
 ' to friends at New Garden and Crane Creeh. — Tlioughts on the 
 . neglect of a religious care in the ediication of the negroes. 
 
 Thirteenth fifth month, 1 757. Being in good health, and 
 abroad with friends visiting families, I lodged at a friend's 
 house- in Burlington. Going to bed about the time usual with 
 ■ me, I awoke in the night, and my meditations, as I lay, were on 
 , the goodness and mercy of the Lord ; in a sense whereof my 
 heart was contrited. After this I v/ent to sleep again ; in a 
 short time I awoke , it was yet dark, and no appearance of 
 day or moonshine; and as I opened mine eyes, I saw a hght 
 in my chamber, at the apparent distance of five feet, about 
 nine inches diameter, of a clear easy brightness, and near its 
 centre the most rafliant. As I lay still, locking upon it 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 37 
 
 -wiihout any surprise, words were spoken to my inward ear, 
 which filled my whole inward man. They were not the 
 effect of thought, nor any conclusion in relation to the ap- 
 pearance ; but as the language of the Holy One, spoken in 
 my mind. The words were, Cehtain Evidence of Divine 
 Truth. They were again repeated exactly in the same manner, 
 and then the light disappeared. 
 
 Feeling the exercise in relation to a visit to the Southern 
 Provinces to increase upon me, I acquainted our monthly 
 meeting therewith, and obtained their certificate. Expecting 
 to go alone, one of my brothers who lived in Philadelphia, 
 having some business in North Carolina, proposed going with 
 me part of the way; but as he had a view of some outward 
 affairs, to accept of him as a companion was some difficulty 
 with me, whereupon I had conversation with him at sundry 
 times. At length feeling -easy in my mind, I had conversa- 
 tion with several elderly friends of Philadelphia on the sub- 
 ject; and 'he obtaining a certificate suitable to the occasion, 
 we set off in the fifth month, 1757. Coming to Nottingham 
 week-day meeting, we lodged at John Churchman's, where I 
 met with our friend Benjamin Buffington, from New Eng- 
 land, who was returning from a visit to the Southern Provin- 
 ces. Thence we crossed the river Susquehannah, and lodged 
 at William Cox's in Maryland. 
 
 Soon after I entered this province, a deep and painful exer- 
 cise came upon me, which I often had some feeling of, since 
 my mind was drawn toward these parts, and with which I had 
 acquainted my brother before we agreed to join as companions. 
 As the people in this and the Southern Provinces live much on 
 the labour of slaves, many of whom are used hardly, my 
 concern was that I .might attend with singleness of heart to 
 , the voice of the true Shepherd, and be so supported as to 
 remain unmoved at the faces of men. 
 
38 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 As it is common for friends on such a visit to have enter- 
 tainment free of cost, a difficulty arose in my mind with 
 respect to saving my money by liindness received, from what 
 appeared to me to be the gain of oppression. Receiving a gift, 
 considered as a gift, brings tlie receiver under obligations to 
 the benefactor, and has a natural tendency to draw the obliged 
 into a party with the giver. To prevent difficulties of this 
 kind, and to preserve the minds of judges from any bias, was 
 that divine prohibition: "Thou shalt not receive any gift; 
 for a gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the 
 righteous." Exod. xxiii. 8. As the disciples were sent forth 
 without any provision for their journey, and our Lord said 
 the workman is vporthy of his meat, their labour in the gos- 
 pel was considered as a reward for their entertainment, 
 and therefore not received as a gift; yet, in regard to my 
 present journey, I could not see my w^ay clear in that 
 respect. The difference appeared thus : the entertainment 
 the disciples met with, was from them whose hearts God had 
 opened to receive them, from a lore to them and the truth 
 they published; but we considered as members of the same 
 religious society, look upon it as a piece of civility to receive 
 each other in such visits ; and such reception, al times, is 
 partly in regard to reputation, and not from an inward unity 
 of heart and spirit. Conduct is more convincing than lan- 
 guage ; and where people, by their actions, manifest that the 
 slave-trade is not so disagreeable to their principles but that 
 it may be encouraged, there is not a sound uniting with some 
 friends who visit them. 
 
 The prospect of so weighty a work, and of being so dis- 
 tinguished from many whom I esteemed before myself, 
 brought me very low; and such were the conflicts of my 
 soul, that I had a near sympathy with the prophet, in the time 
 of his weakness, when he said, " If thou deal thus with me, 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 39 
 
 kill me, I pray thee, if I have found favour in thy sight." 
 Num. xi. 15. But I soon saw that this proceeded from the 
 want of a full resignation to the divine will. Many were the 
 afflictions which attended me; and in great abasement, with 
 many tears, my cries were to the Almighty for his gracious 
 and fatherly assistance; and after a time of deep trial, I was 
 favoured to understand the state mentioned by the psalmist, 
 more clearly than ever I had done before; to wit; "My 
 soul is even as a weaned child." Psalm cxxxi. 2. Being 
 thus helped to sink down into resignation, I felt a deliverance 
 from that tempest in which I had been sorely exercised, and 
 in calmness of mind went forward, trusting that the Lord 
 J«sus Christ, as I faithfully attended to him, would be a 
 counsellor to me in all difficulties ; and that by his strength 
 I should be enabled, even to leave money with the members 
 of society where I had entertainment, when I found that 
 omitting it, would obstruct that work to which I believed he 
 had called me. As I copy this after my return, I may here 
 add, that oftentimes I did so, under a sense of duty. The 
 way in which I did it was thus ; when I expected soon to leave 
 a friend's house where I had entertainment, if I believed that 
 I should not keep clear from the gain, of oppression without 
 leaving money, I spoke to one of the heads of the family 
 privately, and desired them to accept of those pieces of silver, 
 and give them to such of their negroes as they believed 
 would make the best use of them : and at other times, I gave 
 them to the negroes myself, as the way looked clearest to me. 
 Before I came out,' I had provided a large number of small 
 pieces for this purpose ; and thus offering them to some who 
 appeared to be wealthy people, was a trial both to me and 
 them. But the fear of the. Lord so covered me at times, that 
 my way was made easier than I expected; and few, if any, 
 manifested any resentment at the offer, and most of them, 
 after some conversation, accepted of them. 
 
40 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 Ninth of fifth month. A friend at whose house we break- 
 fasted setting lis a little on our way, I had conversation with 
 him, in the fear of the Lord, concerning his slaves ; in which 
 my heart Was tender ; I used much plainness of speech with 
 him, and he appeared to take it kindly. We pursued our 
 journey without appointing meetings, being pressed in my 
 mind to be at the yearly meeting in Virginia. In my travell- 
 iiig on the road, I often felt a cry rise from the centre of my 
 mind, thus; " Lord, I am a stranger on the earth, hide 
 not thy face from me." On the eleventh, we crossed the 
 rivers Patowmack and Rapahannock, and lodged at Port 
 Eoyal. On the way we had the company of a colonel of 
 the militia, who appeared to be a thoughtful man. I took 
 occasion to remark on the difference in general betwixt a peo- 
 ple used to labour moderately for their living, training up 
 their children in frugality and business, and those who hve on 
 the labour of slaves ; the former, in my view, bemg the most 
 happy life. • He concurred in the remark, and mentioned the 
 trouble arising from the untoward, slothful disposition of 
 the negroes; adduig, that one of our labourers would do as 
 ■much in a day as two of their slaves. I replied, that free 
 men, whose minds were properly on their business, found a 
 satisfaction in improving, cultivating, and providing for their 
 families ; but negroes, labouring to support others who claim 
 them as their property, and expecting nothing but slavery 
 during life, had not the like inducement to be industrious. 
 
 After some further conversation I sa,id, that men having 
 power, too often misapplied it ; that though we made slaves 
 of the negroes, and the Turks made slaves of the Christians, 
 I believed that liberty was the natural right of all men equally. 
 This he did not deny; but said, the lives of the negroes 
 were so wretched in their own country, that many of them 
 lived better here than there. I replied, there is great odds 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 41 
 
 in regard to us, on what principle we act ; and so the con- 
 versation on that subject ended. I may here add, that 
 another person, some time afterwards, mentioned the wretch- 
 edness of the negroes, occasioned by their intestine wars, as 
 an argument in favour of our fetching them away for slaves. 
 To which I replied, if compassion for the Africans, on 
 account of their domestic troubles, was the real motive of our 
 purchasing them, that spirit of tenderness being attended to, 
 would incite us to use them kindly ; that as strangers brought 
 out of affliction, their lives might be happy among us. And 
 as they are human creatures, whose souls are as precious as 
 ours, and'who may receive the same help and comfort from 
 the holy scriptures as we do, we could not omit suitable en- 
 deavours to instruct them therein ; but that while we mani- 
 fest by our conduct, that our views in purchasing them are 
 to advance ourselves ; and while our buying captives taken 
 in war, animates those parties to push on the war, and in- 
 crease desolation amongst them ; to say they live unhappy in 
 Africa, is far from being an argument in our favou.r. I 
 further said, the present circumstances of these provinces to 
 me appear difficult ; the slaves look like a burdensome stone to 
 such as burden themselves with them ; and that if the white 
 people retain a resolution to prefer their outward prospects of 
 gain to all other considerations, and do not act conscientiously 
 toward them as fellow-creatures, I believe that burden will 
 grow heavier and heavier, until times change in a way dis- 
 agreeable to us. The person appeared very serious ; and 
 owned, that in considering their condition, and the manner of 
 their treatment in these provinces, he had some times thought 
 it might be just in the Almighty so to order it. 
 
 Having travelled through Maryland, we came amongst 
 friends at Cedar Creek in Virginia, on the twelfth ; and the 
 next day rode, in company with several friends, a day's jour- 
 
42 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 ney to Camp Creek. As I was riding along in the morning, 
 my mind was deeply affected in a sense I had of the want of 
 divine aid to support me, in the various difficulties which at- 
 tended me ; and in uncommon distress of mind, I cried in 
 secret to the Most High, " Lord be merciful, I beseech 
 thee, to thy poor afflicted creature." After some time, I 
 felt inward relief; and soon after, a friend in company began 
 to talk in support of the slave-trade, and said, the negroes 
 were understood to be the offspring of Cain, their blackness 
 being the mark which God set upon him, after he murdered 
 Abel his brother ; that it was the design of Providence they 
 should be slaves, as a condition proper to the race of so 
 wicked a man as Cain was. Then another spake in sup- 
 port of what had been said. To all which I replied in sub- 
 stance as follows ; that Noah and his family were all who 
 survived the flood, according to scripture ; and as Noah was 
 of Seth's race, the family of Cain was wholly destroyed. One 
 of them said, that after the flood Ham went to the Land of 
 Nod and took a wife ; that Nod was a land far distant, in- 
 habited by Cain's race, and that the flood did not reach it ; 
 and as Ham was sentenced to be a servant of servants to his 
 brethren, these two families being thus joined, were undoubt- 
 edly fit only for slaves. I replied, the flood was a judgment 
 upon the world for their abominations ; and it was granted 
 that Cain's stock was the most wicked, and therefore un- 
 reasonable to suppose that they were spared. As to Ham's 
 going to the land of Nod for a wife, no time being fixed. 
 Nod might be inhabited by some of Noah's family, before 
 Ham married a second time ; moreoverthe text saith, " That 
 all flesh died that moved upon the earth." Gen. vii, 21. 
 I further reminded them how the prophets repeatedly de- 
 clare, " that the son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the 
 father : but every one be answerable for bis own sins." I 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 43 
 
 was troubled to perceive the darkness of their imaginations ; 
 and in some pressure of spirit said, the love of ease and gain 
 are the motives in general of keeping slaves, and men are 
 wont to take hold of weak arguments to support a cause 
 which is unreasonable. I have no interest on either side, 
 save only the interest which I desire to have in the truth. I 
 believe liberty is their right, and as I see they are not only 
 deprived of it, but treated in other respects with inhumanity 
 in many places, I believe He, who is a refuge for the op- 
 pressed, will, in his own time, plead their cause ; and happy 
 will it be for such as walk in uprightness before Him. And 
 thus our conversation ended. 
 
 Fourteenth of fifth month. I was this day at Camp Creek 
 monthly-meeting, and then rode to the mountains up James' 
 River, and had a meeting at a friend's house ; in both which 
 I felt sorrow of heart, and my tears were poured out before 
 the Lord, who was pleased to afford a degree of strength, by 
 whicli way was opened to clear my mind amongst friends in 
 those places. From thence I went to Fork Creek, and so to 
 Cedar Creek again ; at which place I now had a meeting. 
 Here I found a tender seed ; and as I was preserved in the 
 ministry to keep low with the Truth, the same truth in their 
 hearts answered it ; that it was a time of mutual refreshment 
 from the presence of the Lord. I lodged at James Standley's, 
 father of William Standley, one of the young men who suf- 
 fered imprisonment at Winchester last summer, on account of 
 their testimony against fighting ; and I had some satisfactory 
 conversation with him concerning it. Hence I went to the 
 Swamp-meeting, and to Wayanok&-meeting ; and then crossed 
 James' Eiver, and lo(?ged near Burleigh. From the time of 
 my entering Maryland I have been much imder sorrow, 
 which of late so increased upon me, that my mind was almost 
 overwhelmed; and I may say with the psalmist, "In my 
 
44 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 distress I called upon the Lord, and cried to my God ;" who, 
 in infinite goodness, looked upon my affliction, and in my 
 private retirement sent the Comforter for my relief; for 
 ■which I humbly bless his holy name. 
 
 The sense I had of the state of the churches, brought a 
 weight of distress upon me. The gold to me appeared dim, 
 and the fine gold changed ; and though this is the case too 
 generally, yet the sense of it in these parts hath in a particu- 
 lar manner, borne heav}' upon me. It appeared to me, that 
 through the prevailing of the spirit of this world, the minds 
 of many were brought to an uiward desolation; and instead of 
 the spirit of meekness, gentleness, and heavenly wisdom, 
 which are the necessary companions of the true sheep of 
 Christ, a spirit of fierceness, and the love of dominion, too 
 generally prevailed. From small beginnings in error, great 
 buildings, by degrees, are raised; and from one age to 
 another are more and more strengthened by the general con- 
 currence of the people ; and as men obtain reputation by 
 their profession of the truth, their virtues are mentioned as 
 arguments in favour of general error; and those of less 
 note, to justify themselves, say, such and such good men 
 did the hke. By what other steps could the people of Judah 
 arise to that height in wickedness, as to give just ground for 
 the prophet Isaiah to declare in the name of the Lord, " that 
 none calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for ^truth," Isaiah 
 lix. 4. or for the Almighty to call upon the great city qf Jeru- 
 salem, just before the Babylonish captivity, " If ye can find a 
 man, if there be any who executeth judgment, that seeketh 
 the truth, and I will pardorf it." Jer. v. 1st. 
 
 The prospect of a way being open to- the same degeneracy,' 
 in some parts of this newly settled land of America, in respect 
 to our conduct towards the negroes, hath deeply bowed- my 
 mind in this journey; and though briefly to relate how these 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 45 
 
 people are treated is no agreeable work; yet, after often 
 reading over the notes I made as I travelled, I find my mind 
 engaged to preserve them. Many of the white people in 
 those provinces take little or no care of negro marriages ; and 
 when negroes marry after their own way, some make so little 
 account of those marriages, that with views of outward inte- 
 rest, they often part men from their wives by selling them far 
 asunder ; which is common when estates are sold by execu- 
 tors at vendue. Many whose labour is heavy, being followed 
 at their business in the field, by a man with a whip, hired for 
 that purpo'se, have in common little else allowed but one 
 peck of Indian corn and some salt, for one week, with a few 
 potatoes; the potatoes they commonly raise by tBeir labour 
 on the first day of the week. The correction ensuing on their 
 disobedience to overseers, or slothfulness in business, is often 
 very severe, and sometimes desperate. 
 
 Men and women have many times scarcely clothes suffi- 
 cient to hide their nakedness, and boys and girls, ten and 
 twelve years old, are often quite naked amongst their master's 
 children. Some of our society, and some of the society 
 called new-lights, use some endeavours to instruct those they 
 have in reading ; but in common this is not only neglected, 
 but disapproved. These are the people by whose labour the 
 other inhabitants are in a great measure supported, and many 
 of them in the luxuries of life. These are the people who 
 have made no agreement to serve us, and who have not for." 
 feited their liberty that we know of. These are the souls 
 for whom Christ died ; and for our conduct towards them, 
 we must answer before Him who is no respecter of persons. 
 They who know the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom He 
 hath sent, and are thus acquainted with the merciful, benevo- 
 lent, gospel spirit, will therein perceive that the indignation of 
 (Jrod is kindled against oppression and cruelty ; and in behold- 
 
46 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 ing the great distress of so numerous a people, will find cause 
 for mourning. 
 
 From my lodgings I went to Burleigh-meeting, where I 
 felt my mind drawn into a quiet resigned state. After long 
 silence, I felt an engagement to stand up ; and through the 
 powerful operation of divine love, we were favoured with an 
 edifying meeting. The next meeting we had was at Black- 
 Water ; and from thence went to the yearly-meeting at the 
 Western Branch. When business began, some queries were 
 introduced by some of their members for consideration j and 
 if approved, they were to be answered hereafter by their 
 respective monthly-meetings. They were the Pennsylvania 
 queries, wiich had been examined by a committee of Vir- 
 ginia yearly meeting appointed the last year, who made some 
 alterations in them ; one of wliich alterations was made in fa- 
 vour of a custom which troubled me. The query was, "Are 
 there any concerned in the importation of negroes, or in 
 buying them after imported ?" which was thus altered. 
 "Are there any concerned in the importation of negroes, or 
 buying them to trade in '?" As one query admitted with una- 
 nimity was, " Are any concerned in buying or vending goods 
 imlawfuUy imported, or prize goods?'' I found my mind 
 engaged to say, that as we profess the truth, and were there 
 assembled to support the testimony of it, it was necessary for 
 us to dwell deep, and act in that wisdom which is pure; or 
 otherwise we could not prosper. I then mentioned their al- 
 teration; and referring to the last mentioned query, added, 
 that as purchasing any merchandize taken by the sword, was 
 always allowed to be inconsistent with our principles ; so ne- 
 groes being captives of war, or taken by stealth, it was incon- 
 sistent with our testimony to buy thena ; and their being our 
 fellow-creatures, and sold as slaves, added greatly to the ini- 
 quity. Friends appeared atleutive to what was eaid ; scn:e 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 47 
 
 expfessed a care and concern about their negroes ; none made 
 any objection, by way of reply to what I said ; but the query 
 was admitted as they had altered it. 
 
 As some of their members have heretofore traded in ne- 
 groes, as in other merchandize, this query being admitted, 
 will be one step further than they have hitherto gone ; and I 
 did not see it my duty to press for an alteration : but felt 
 easy to leave it all to Him, who alone is able to turn the hearts 
 of the mighty, and make way for the spreading of truth on 
 th^ earth, by means agreeable to his infinite wisdom. In re- 
 gard to those they already had, I felt my mind engaged to 
 labour with them ; and said, that, as we believe the scriptures 
 were given forth by holy men, as they were moved by the 
 Holy Ghost, and many of us know by experience that they are 
 often helpful and comfortable, and believe ourselves bound in 
 duty to teach our children to read them ; I believed that if we 
 were divested of all selfish views, the same good spirit that gave 
 them forth, would engage us to teach the negroes to read, that 
 they might have the benefit of them. Some present manifested 
 a concern to take more care in the education of their negroes. 
 
 Twenty-ninth fifth month. At the house where I lodged 
 was a meeting of ministers and elders. I found an engage- 
 ment to speak freely and plainly to them concerning their 
 slaves; mentioning how they, as the first rank in the society, 
 whose conduct in that case was much noticed by others, were 
 under the stronger obligations to look carefully to themselves. 
 Expressing how needful it was for them in that situation, to be 
 thoroughly divested of all selfish views ; that living in the pure 
 truth, and acting conscientiously towards those people in their 
 education and otherwise, they might be instrumental in help- 
 ing forward a work so exceedingly necessary, and so much 
 neglected amongst them. At the twelfth hour the meeting of 
 worship began, which was a solid meetifg. 
 
48 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 The next day, about the tenth hour, friends met to finish 
 their business, and then the meeting for worship ensued; which 
 to me was a laborious time ; but through the goodness of' the 
 Lord, truth I beUeved gained some ground ; and it was a 
 strengthening opportunity to the honest hearted. 
 
 About this time I wrote an epistle to friends in the back 
 settlements of North Carolina, as follows : 
 
 To Friends at their monthly-meeting at Nero Garden 
 and Cane Creelc, in J^Torth Carolina. 
 Dear friends, 
 
 It having pleased the Lord to draw me forth on a visit to 
 some parts of Virginia and Carolina, you have often been in 
 my mind ; and though my way is not clear to come in* person 
 to visit you, yet I feel it in my heart to communicate a few 
 things, as they arise in the love of truth. First, my dear 
 friends, dwell in humility ; and take heed that no views of 
 outward gain get too deep hold of you, that so your eyes being 
 single to the Lord, you may be preserved in the way of safety. 
 Where people let loose their minds after the love of outward 
 things, and are more engaged in pursuing the profits, and 
 seeking the friendships of this world, than to be inwardly ac- 
 quainted with the way of true peace; they walk in a vain 
 shadow, while the true comfort of life is wanting. Their ex- 
 amples are often hurtful to others ; and their treasures thus 
 collected, do many times prove dangerous snares to their 
 children. 
 
 But where people are sincerely devoted to follow Christ, 
 and dwell under the influence of his Holy Spirit, their stabi- 
 lity and firmness, through a divine blessing, is at times like 
 dew on the tender plants round about them, and the weighti- 
 ness of their spirits secretly works on the minds of others. In 
 this condition, through the spreading influence of divine love 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 49 
 
 they feel a care over the flock ; and way is opened for main- 
 taining good order in the society. And though we may meet 
 with opposition from another spirit, yet, as there is a dwell- 
 ing in meekness, feeling our spirits subject, and moving only 
 in the gentle peaceable wisdom, the inward reward of quiet- 
 ness will be' greater than all our difficulties. Where the pure 
 life is kept to, and meetings of discipline are held in the au- 
 thority of it, we find by experience that they are comfortable, 
 and tend to the health of the body. 
 
 While I write, the youth come fresh in my way. Dear 
 young people, choose God for your portion ; love his truth, 
 and be not ashamed of it ; choose for your company such as 
 serve Him in uprightness ; and shun as most dangerous, the 
 conversation of those whose lives are of an ill savour ; for by 
 frequenting such company, some hopeful young people have 
 come to great loss, and been drawn from less evils to greater, 
 to their utter ruin. In the bloom of youth no ornament is so 
 lovely as that of virtue, nor any enjoyments equal to those 
 which we partake of, in fully resigning ourselves to the divine 
 will. These enjoyments add sweetness to all other comforts, 
 and give true satisfaction in company and conversation, where 
 people are mutually acquainted with it ; and as your minds 
 are thus seasoned with the truth, you will find strength to 
 abide stedfast to the testimony of it, and be prepared fori ser- 
 vices in the church. 
 
 And now dear friends and brethren, as you are improving 
 a wilderness, and may be numbered amongst the first planters 
 in one part of a province, I beseech you, in the love of Jesus 
 Christ, wisely to consider the force of your examples, and 
 think how much your successors may be thereby affected. It 
 is a help in a country, yea, and a great favour and blessing, 
 when customs first settled are agreeable to sound wisdom; 
 but when they are otherwise, the effect of them is grievous ; 
 
 c 
 
50 THE JOURNAL OP 
 
 « 
 and children ^el themselves encompassed with difficulties 
 
 prepared for them by their predecessors. 
 
 As moderate care and exercise, under the direction of true 
 wisdom, are useful both to mind and body; so, by these 
 means in general, the real wants of life are easily' supplied. 
 Our gracious Father having so proportioned one to the other, 
 that keeping in the medium we may pass on quietly. Where 
 slaves are purchased to do our labour, numerous difficulties 
 attend it. To rational creatures bondage is uneasy, and fre- 
 quently occasions sourness and discontent in them; which 
 affects the family, and such as claim the mastery over them. 
 Thus people and their children are many times encompassed 
 with vexations, which arise from their applying to wrong 
 methods to get a living. 
 
 I have been informed that there is a large number of 
 friends in your parts, who have no slaves ; and in tender and 
 most affectionate love, I beseech you to keep clear from pur- 
 cheising any. Look, my dear friends, to Divine Providence ; 
 and follow in simplicity that exercise of body, that plainness 
 and frugality, which true wisdom leads to ; so may you be 
 preserved from those dangers which attend such as are aiming 
 at outward ease and greatness. 
 
 Treasures, though small, attained on a true principle of 
 virtue, are sweet ; and while we walk in the light of the Lord, 
 there is true comfort and satisfaction in the possession : 
 neither the murmurs of an oppressed people, nor a throbbing 
 uneasy conscience, nor anxious thoughts about the events of 
 things, hinder the enjoyment of them. 
 
 When we look towards the end of life, and think on the 
 division of our substance among our successors; if we know 
 that it was collected in the fear of the Lord, in honesty, in 
 equity, and in uprightness of heart before Him, we may con- 
 sider it as his gift to us; and with a single eye to his 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 51 
 
 blessing, bestow it on those we leave behind us. Such is the 
 happiness of the plain ways of true virtue. "The work of 
 righteousness shall be peace ; and the effect of righteousness, 
 quietness and assurance for ever." Isa. xxxii. 17. 
 
 Dwell here, my dear friends ; and then in remote and 
 solitary deserts, you may find true peace and satisfaction. If 
 the Lord be our God, in truth and reality, there is safety for 
 us ; for He is a strong hold in the day of trouble, and knoweth 
 them that trust in Him. 
 
 Isle of Weight County^ in Virgima, 
 IQth of the 5th month, 1757. 
 
 From the yearly meeting in Virginia I went to Carolina ; 
 and, on the first of sixth month, was at Wells monthly meeting, 
 where the spring of the gospel ministry was opened, and the 
 love of Jesus Christ experienced amongst us : to his name 
 be the praise. 
 
 Here my brother joined with some friends from New 
 Garden, who were going homeward ; and I went next to 
 Simons Creek monthly meeting, where I was silent during 
 the meeting for worship. When business came on, my mind 
 was exercised concerning the poor slaves ; but I did not feel 
 my way clear to speak. In this condition I was bowed in 
 spirit before the Lord ; and with tears and inward supplica- 
 tion besought Him, so to open my understanding, that I 
 might know his will concerning me ; and, at length, my 
 mind was settled in silence. Near the end of their business, a 
 member of their meeting expressed a concern, that had some 
 time lain upon him, on account of friends so much neglecting 
 their duty in the education of their slaves ; and proposed 
 having meetings sometimes appointed for them on a week- 
 
 c3 
 
52 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 day, to be attended only by some friends to be named in their 
 monthly meetings. Many present appeared to unite with the 
 proposal. One said, he had often wondered that they, being 
 our fellow-creatures, and capable of religious understanding, 
 had been so exceedingly neglected : another expressed the 
 like concern, and appeared zealous that, in future, it might be 
 more easily considered. At length a minute was made ; and the 
 further consideration of it referred to their next monthly 
 meeting. The friend who made this proposal hath negroes : 
 he told me, that he was at New Garden, about two hundred 
 and fifty miles from home, and came back alone ; that in this 
 solitary journey, this exercise, in regard to the education of 
 their negroes, was from time to t'tme renewed in his mind. A 
 friend of some note in Virginia, who hath slaves, told me, 
 that he being far from home on a lonesome journey, had many 
 serious thoughts about them ; and his mind was so impressed 
 therewith, that he believed he saw a time coming, when 
 Divine Providence would alter the circumstance of these peo- 
 ple, respecting their condition as slaves. 
 
 From hence I went to a meeting at Newbegun Creek, and 
 sat a considerable time in much weakness ; then I felt truth 
 open the way to speak a little in much plainness and simplicity, 
 till, at length, through the increase of divine love amongst us, 
 we had a seasoning opportimity. This was also the case at 
 the head of Little Eiver, where we had a crowded meeting 
 on a first day. I went thence to the Old Neck ; where I was 
 led into a careful searching out of the secret workings of the 
 mystery of iniquity, which, under a cover of religion, exalts 
 itself against that pure spirit, which leads in the way of meek- 
 ness and self-denial. Pineywoods was the last meeting I was 
 at in Carolina; it was large; and my heart being deeply en- 
 gaged, I was drawn forth into a fervent labour amongst 
 them. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 63 
 
 When I was at Newbegun Creek, a friend was there who 
 boured for his living, having no negroes, and who had 
 en a minister many years. He came to me the next day ; 
 d as we rode together, he signified that he wanted to talk 
 th me concerning a difficulty he had been under, which he 
 lated nearly as follows. That as monies had of late years 
 en raised by a tax to carry on the wars, he had a scruple in 
 5 mind in regard to paying it,; and chose rather to suffer 
 itraitit of his goods; but as he was the only person who ra- 
 sed it in those parts, and knew not that any one else was in 
 e like circumstances, he signified that it had been a heavy 
 al to him; especially as some of his brethren had been 
 easy with his conduct in that case. He added, that from 
 sympathy he felt with me yesterday in meeting, he found 
 ledom.thus to open the matter, in the way of querying con- 
 rning friends in our parts : I told him the state of friends 
 longst us, as well as I was able ; and also that I had, for 
 me time, been under th^Wie scruple. I believed him to be 
 
 e who was concerned t^^alk uprightly before the Lord ; 
 d esteemed it my duty to preserve this note concerning 
 m, Samuel Newby. 
 
 From hence I went back into Virginia, and had a meet- 
 j near James Cowpland's ; it was a time of inward suffer- 
 y ; but through the goodness of the Lord, I was made 
 ntent ; at' another meeting, through the renewings of pure 
 .^e, we had a very comfortable season. 
 
 Travelling up and down of late, I have had renewed evi- 
 nces, that to be faithful to the Lord, and content with his 
 11 concerning me, is a most necessary and useful lesson for 
 3 to be learning ; looking less at the eflfects of my labour, 
 an at the pure motion and reaUty of the concern, as it arises 
 )m heavenly love. In the Lord Jehovah is everlasting 
 rength ; and as the mind, by humble resignation, is imited 
 
54 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 to Him, and we utter words from an inward knowledge th 
 they arise from the heavenly spring, though our way may 1 
 diflScult, and it may require close attention to keep in i 
 and though the manner in which we may be led, may tend 
 our own abasement; jet, if we continue in patience ai 
 meekness, heavenly peace will be the reward of our labour 
 I attended Curies meeting ; which, though small, was rei 
 ving to the honest hearted. Afterwards I went to Black Ore* 
 and Caroline meetings ; from whence, accompanied by W] 
 Staudley before mentioned, I rode to Goose Creek, beij 
 much through the woods, and about one hundred mili 
 We lodged the first night at a public-house ; the second 
 the woods ; and the next day we reached a friend's house 
 Goose Creek. In the woods we were under some disadva 
 tage, having no fire-works nor bells for our horses ; but i 
 stopped a little before night, and let them feed on the wi 
 grass which was plentiful; in the mean time cutting wi 
 our linives a store against niata. We then secured o 
 horses, and gathering some bush^rander an oak,we lay dow: 
 but the musquetoes being numerous and the ground damp, 
 slept but little. Thus lying in the wilderness, and looking 
 the stars, I was led to contemplate on the condition of o 
 first parents, when they were sent forth from the garde 
 how the Almighty, though they had been disobedient, co 
 tinued to be a father to them ; and showed them what tend 
 to their felicity as intelligent creatures, and was acceptable 
 Him. To provide things relative to our outward living, 
 the way of true wisdom, is good ; and the gift pf improvL 
 in things useful, is a good gift, and comes from the Father 
 lights. Many have had this gift ; and from age to age, the 
 have been improvements of this kind made in the wor] 
 But some not keeping to the pure gift, have, in the creaturt 
 cunning and self-exaltation, sought out many inventions, j 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 53 
 
 the first motive to these inventions of men, as distinct from 
 that uprightness in which man was created, was evil, so the 
 effects have been and are evil. It is therefore as necessary 
 for us at this day constantly to attend on the heavenly gift, 
 to be qualified to use rightly the good things in this life 
 amidst great improvements, as it was for our first parents, 
 when they were without any improvements, without any 
 friend or father but God only. 
 
 I was at a meeting at Goose Creek ; and next at a month- 
 ly meeting at Fairfax ; where, through the gracious dealing 
 of the Almighty with us, his power prevailed over many 
 hearts. From thence I went to Monoquacy and Pipe Creek, 
 in Maryland; at both places I had cause humbly to adore 
 Him, who had supported me through many exercises, and by 
 whose help I was enabled to reach the true witness in the 
 hearts of others. There were some hopeful young people in: 
 those parts. I had meetings afterwards at John Everit's in 
 Monalen, and at Huntingdon; and I was made humbly 
 thankful to the Lord, who opened my heart amongst the 
 people in these new settlements, so that it was a time of en- 
 couragement to the honest-minded. 
 
 At Monalen, a friend gave me some account of a religious 
 society among the Dutch, called Meiuionists; and amongst 
 other things, related a passage in substance as follows : — One 
 of the Mennonists having acquaintance with a man of another 
 society at a considerable distance, and being with his wag- 
 gon on business near the house of his said acquaintance, and 
 night coming on, he had thoughts of putting up with him ; 
 but passing by his fields, and observing the distressed ap- 
 pearance of his slaves, he kindled afire in the woods hard by, 
 and lay there that night. His said acquaintance hearing 
 where he lodged, and afterwards meeting the Mennonist, 
 told him of it ; adding, h^ should have been heartily welcome 
 
56 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 at his house ; and from their acquaintance in former time, 
 wondered at his conduct in that case. The Mennonist replied, 
 " ever since I lodged by thy field, I have wanted an oppor- 
 tunity to speak with thee. I had intended to come to thy 
 house for entertainment; but seeing thy slaves at their work, 
 and observing the manner of their dress, I had no liking to 
 come to partake with thee," I then admonished him to use 
 them with more humanity ; and added, " as I lay by the fire 
 that night, I thought that as I was a man of substance, thou 
 wouldst have received me freely ; but if I had been as poor as 
 one of thy slaves, and had no power to help myself, I should 
 have received from thy hand no kinder usage than they." 
 
 In this journey, I was out about two months, and travelled 
 about eleven hundred and fifty miles. I returned home under 
 a humbling sense of the gracious dealings of the Lord with 
 me, in preserving me through many trials and afflictions. 
 
 CHAP. V. 
 
 1757—1758. 
 
 Considerations on the payment of a tax, laid for carrying on 
 the war against the Indians.— Meetings of the committee of the 
 yearly meeting at Philadelphia. — Some notes on Thomas i Kem- 
 pis and John JIuss, — The present circumstances of friends in 
 Pennsylvania and JVew Jersey very different from those of our 
 predecessors.- — The draughting of the militia in Weiv Jersey to 
 serve in the army ; with some observations on the state of the 
 members of our society at that time. — X''isit to friends in Penn- 
 sylvania, accompanied by Benjamin Jones. — Proceedings at the 
 monthly, quarterly, and yearly meetings in Philadelphia, respect- 
 ing those ivho keep slaiws. 
 
 A few years past, money being made current in our pro- 
 vince for carrying on wars, and to be called in again by taxes 
 laid on the inhabitants, my mind was often affected with the 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 57 
 
 thoughts of paying such taxes ; and I believe it right for me 
 to preserve a memorandum concerning it. I was told that 
 friends in England frequently paid taxes, when the money was 
 applied to such purposes. I had conversation with several 
 noted friends on the subject, who all favoured the payment of 
 such taxes ; some of them I preferred before myself, and 
 this made me easier for a time ; yet there was in the depth of 
 my mind, a scruple which I never could get over ; and, at 
 Certain timeSj I was greatly distressed on that account. 
 
 I believed that there were some upright-hearted men, who 
 paid such taxes ; yet could not see that their example was a 
 sufficient reason for me to do so, while I believe that the 
 spirit of truth required of me, as an individual, to suffer pa- 
 tiently the distress of goods, rathe* than pay actively. 
 
 To refuse the active payment of a tax which our society 
 generally paid was exceedingly disagreeable ; but to do a 
 thing contrary to my conscience, appeared yet more dreadful. 
 When this exercise came upon me, I knew of none under 
 the like difficulty; and in my distress, I besought the Lord 
 to enable me to give up all, that so I might follow Him where- 
 soever He was pleased to lead me. Under this exercise I 
 went to our yearly meeting at Philadelphia, in the year 1 755 ; 
 at which a committee was appointed of some from each quar- 
 terly meeting, to correspond with the meeting for sufferings in 
 London; and another to visit our monthly and quarterly 
 meetings.- After their appointment, before the last adjourn- 
 ment of the meeting, it was agreed that these two committees 
 should meet together in friends' school-house in the city, to 
 consider some things in which the cause of truth was con- 
 cerned. They accordingly had a weighty conference in the 
 fear of the Lord; at which time I perceived there were 
 c3 
 
56 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 many friends under a scruple like that before-mentioned.* 
 As scrupling to pay a tax on account of the application, 
 hath seldom been heard of heretofore, even amongst men of 
 integrity, who have steadily borne their testimony against 
 outward wars in their time ; I may therefore note some things 
 which have occurred to ray mind, as I have been inwardly 
 exercised on that account. From the steady opposition which 
 faithful friends, in early times, made to wrong things then ap- 
 proved, they were hated and persecuted by men living in the 
 spirit of this world: and suffering with firmness, they were 
 made a blessing to the church, and the work prospered. It 
 equally concerns men, in every age, to take heed to their own 
 spirits ; and in comparing their situation with ours, to me it 
 appears that there was less danger of their being infected with 
 the spirit of this world, inlaying such taxes, than is the case 
 with us now. They had little or no share in civil govern- 
 ment ; and many of them declared that they were, through 
 the power of God, separated from the spirit in which wars 
 were ; and being afflicted by the rulers on account of their 
 testimony, there was less likelihood of their uniting in spirit 
 with them in things inconsistent with the purity of truth. 
 We, from the first settlement of this land, have known little 
 or no troubles of that sort. The profession of our prede- 
 cessors was for a time accounted reproachful ; but at length 
 their uprightness being understood by the rulers, and their 
 innocent sufferings moving them, our way of worship was 
 tolerated; and many of our members in these colonies be- 
 came active in civil government. Being thus tried with 
 favour and prosperity, this world appeared inviting; our 
 minds have been turned to the improvement of our country, to 
 merchandize and the sciences, amongst which are many things 
 
 • Christiana refused to pay taxes to support heathen temples. 
 See Caves' Primitive Christianity, part III. page 327. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 60 
 
 useful, if followed in pure wisdom; but in our present con- 
 dition, I believe it will not be denied that a carnal mind is 
 gaining upon us. Some of our members, who are officers in 
 civil government, are, in one case or other, called upon in their 
 respective stations to assist in things relative to the wars: but 
 being in doubt whether to act, or to crave to be excused from 
 their office, if they see their brethren united in the payment 
 of a tax to carry on the said wars, may think their case not 
 much different, and so might quench the tender movings of 
 the Holy spirit in their minds. Thus, by small degrees, we 
 might approach so near to fighting, that the distinction would 
 be little else than the name of a peaceable people. 
 
 It requires great self-denial and resignation of ourselves to 
 God, to attain that state wherein we can freely cease from 
 fighting when wrongfully invaded ; if, by our fighting, there 
 were a probability of overcoming the invaders. Whoever 
 rightly attains to it, does in some degree feel that spirit, in 
 which our Redeemer gave his life for us ; and through divine 
 goodness, meiny of our predecessors, and many now living, 
 have learned this blessed lesson; but many others, having 
 their religion chiefly by education, and not being enough ac- 
 quainted with that cross which crucifiefi to the world, do 
 manifest a temper distinguishable from that of an entire trust 
 in God. In calmly considering these things, it hath not ap- 
 peared strange to me, that an exercise hath now fallen upon 
 some, which, with respect to the outward means, is different 
 from what was known to many of those who went before us. 
 
 Some time after the yearly meeting, the said committtes 
 met at Philadelphia ; and, by adjournments, continued sitting 
 several days. The calamities of war were now increasing; 
 the frontier inhabitants of Pennsylvania were frequently sur- 
 prised ; some were slain, and many taken captive by the 
 Indians ; and while these committees sat, the corpse of one so. 
 
60 THE JOURNAL OP 
 
 slain was brought in a waggon, and taken through the streets 
 of the city in his bloody garments, to alarm the people, and 
 rouse them to war. 
 
 Friends thus met were not all of one mind in relation to 
 the tax J which, to (hose who scrupled it, made the way more 
 difficult. To refuse an active payment at such a time, might 
 be construed into an act of disloyalty, and appeared likely to 
 displease the rulers, not only here but in England ; still there 
 was a scruple so fixed on the minds of many friends, that 
 nothing moved it. It was a conference the most weighty that 
 ever I was at; and the hearts of many were bowed in reve- 
 rence before the Most High. Some friends of the said com- 
 mittees who appeared easy to pay the tax, after several 
 adjournments, withdrew; others of them continued till the last. 
 At length, an epistle of tender love and caution to friends in 
 Pennsylvania, was drawn up ; and being read several times 
 and corrected, was signed by such as were free to sign it, and 
 afterward sent to the monthly and quarterly meetings. 
 
 Ninth of eighth month, 1757, Orders came at night to 
 the military officers in our county (Burlington), directing 
 them to draught the militia, and prepare a number of men to 
 go off as soldiei-s, to the relief of the English at Fort William 
 Henry, in New York government ; a few days after which, 
 there was a general review of the militia at Mount Holly, and 
 a number of men were chosen and sent off under some officers. 
 Shortly after, there came orders to draught three times' as 
 many, who were to hold themselves in readiness to march 
 when fresh orders came. On the 17th there was a meeting of 
 the military officers at Mount Holly, who agreed on a 
 draught; orders were sent to the men so chosen, to meet 
 their respective captains at set times and places , those in our 
 township to meet at Mount Holly ; amongst whom were 
 a considerable number of our society. My mind being affected 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 61 
 
 herewith, I had fresh opportunity to see and consider the ad- 
 vantage of living in the real substance of religion, where 
 practice doth harmonize with principle. Amongst the officers 
 are men of understanding, who have some regard to sincerity 
 where they see it ; and when such in the execution of their 
 office, have men to deal with whom they believe to be upright- 
 hearted, it is a painful task to put them to trouble on account 
 of scruples of .conscience, and thej' will be likely to avoid it 
 as much as easily may be. But where men profess to be so 
 meek and heavenly -minded, and to have their trust so firmly 
 settled in God, that they cannot join in wars ; and yet, by 
 their spirit and conduct in common life, manifest a contrary 
 disposition, their difficulties are great at such a time. 
 
 ^ When officers who are anxiously endeavouring to get troops 
 to answer the demands of their superiors, see men, who are 
 insincere, pretend scruple of conscience, in hopes of being 
 excused from a dangerous employment, it is likely they will be 
 roughly handled. In this time of commotion some of our 
 young men left these parts, and tarried abroad till it was over; 
 some came, and proposed to go as soldiers ; others appeajed 
 to have a real tender scruple in their minds against joining in 
 wars, and were much humbled under the apprehension of a 
 trial so near. I had conversation with several of them to 
 my .satisfaction. When the Captain came to town, some 
 of the last mentioned went and told him in substance 
 as follows: — That they could not bear arms for con- 
 science sake ; nor could they hire any to go in their places, 
 being resigned as to the event. At length tlie Captain ac- 
 quainted them all, that they might return home for the present, 
 but he required them to provide themselves as soldiers, and 
 be in readiness to march when called upon. This was such 
 a time as I had not seen before ; and yet I may say, with 
 thankfulness to the Lord, that I believed the trial was inten- 
 ded for our good ; and I was favoured with resignation to 
 
62 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 Him. The French army having taken the fort they were 
 besieging, destroyed it and went away ; the company of men 
 who were first draughted, after some days march, had orders 
 to return home ; and those on the second draught, were no 
 more called upon on that occasion. 
 
 Fourth, of fourth month, 1758. Orders came to some 
 officers in Mount Holly, to prepare quarters for a short time, 
 for about one hundred soldiers. An officer and two other 
 men, all inhabitants of our town, came to my house. The 
 officer told me, that he came to desire me to provide lodg- 
 ing and entertainment for two soldiers, and that six shillings a 
 week per man would be allowed as pay. for it. The case 
 being new and unexpected, I made no answer suddenly ; but 
 sat a time silent, my mind being inward. I was fully con- 
 vinced, that the proceedings in wars are inconsistent with the 
 purity of the Christian religion ; and to be hired to entertain 
 men, who were then under pay as soldiers, was a difficulty 
 with me. I expected they had legal authority for what they 
 did ; and after a short time I said to the officer, if the men 
 ar» sent here for entertainment, I believe I shall not refuse 
 to admit them into my house ; but the nature of the case is 
 such, that I expect I cannot keep them on hire : one of the 
 men intimated, that he thought I might do it consistently with 
 my religious principles. To which I made no reply ; believ- 
 ing silence, at that time, best for me. Though they spake of 
 two, there came only one, who tarried at my house about two 
 weeks, and behaved himself civily. When the officer came 
 to pay me, I told him I could not take pay, having admitted 
 him into my house in a passive obedience to authority. I was 
 on horseback when he spake to me ; and as I turned from 
 him, he said he was obliged to me ; to which I said nothing ; 
 but thinking on the expression, I grew uneasy; and after- 
 wards, being near where he lived, I went and told him on 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 63 
 
 what grounds I refused taking pay for keeping the soldier- 
 I have been informed that Thomas a Kempis Hved and 
 died in the profession of the Roman Catholic religion ; and in 
 reading his writings, I have believed him to be a man of a true 
 Christian spirit ; as fully so as many who died martyrs, be- 
 cause they could not join with some superstitions in that 
 church. All true Christians are of the same spirit, but their 
 gifts are diverse ; Jesus Christ appointing to each one his pe- 
 culiar office, agreeably to his infinite wisdom. 
 
 John Huss contended against the errors which had crept 
 into the church, in opposition to the council ^of Constance ; 
 which the historian reports to have consisted of some thousand 
 persons. He modestly vindicated the cause which he be- 
 lieved was right ; and though his language and conduct 
 towards his judges appear to have been respectful, yet he 
 never could be moved from the principles settled in his mind. 
 To use his own words ; " This I most humbly require and 
 desire of you all, even for his sake who is the God of us all, 
 that I be not compelled to the thing which m}' conscience 
 doth repugn or strive against." And again, in his answer to 
 the emperor; " I refuse nothing, most noble emperor, what- 
 soever the council shall decree or determine upon me, only 
 this one thing I except, that I do not offend God and my 
 conscience." Fox's Acts and Monviments, page 233. At 
 length rather than act contrary to that which he believed the 
 Lord required of him, he chose to suffer death by fire. 
 Thomas a Kempis, without disputing against the articles 
 then generally agreed to, appears to have, laboured, by a 
 pious example as well as by preaching and writing, to pro- 
 mote virtue, and the inward spiritual religion ; and I believe 
 they were both sincere-hearted followers of Christ. True 
 charity is an excellent virtue ; and sincerely to labour for 
 their good, whose behef in all points doth not agree with 
 ours, is a happy state. 
 
64 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 Near the beginning of the year 1758, I went one evening, 
 in company with a friend, to visit a sick person ; and before 
 our return, we were told of a woman hving near, who had for 
 several days been disconsolate, occasioned by a dream ; 
 wherein death, and the judgments of the Almighty after 
 death, were represented to her mind in a moving manner. 
 Her sadness on that account, being worn off, the friend, 
 with whom I was in company, went to see her, and had some 
 religious conversation with her and her husband. With this 
 visit they were somewhat affected : and the man, with many 
 tears, expressed his satisfaction. In a short time after, the 
 poor man, being on the river in a storm of wind, was with 
 one more drowned. 
 
 Eighth month. 1758. Having had drawings in my mind 
 to be at the quarterly meeting in Chester comity, 'and at some 
 meetings in the county of Philadelphia, I went first to said 
 quarterly meeting, which was large. Several weighty matters 
 came under consideration and debate ; and the Lord was 
 pleased to qualify some of his servants with strength and 
 firmness, to bear the burden of the day. Though I said but 
 little my mind was deeply exercised ; and, under a sense of 
 God's love, in the anointing and fitting of some young men 
 for his work, I was comforted, and my heart was tendered 
 before Him. From hence I went to the youth's meeting at 
 Darby, where my beloved friend and brother Benjamin 
 Jones met me, by an appointment before I left home, to 
 join in the visit. We were at Radnor, Merion, Richland, 
 North Wales, Plymouth, and Abington meetings ; - and had 
 cause to bow in reverence before the Lord, our gracious God, 
 by whose help way was opened for us from day to day. I 
 was out about two weeks, and rode about two hundred miles. 
 
 The monthly meeting of Philadelphia having been under 
 a concern, on account of some friends, who this summer 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 65 
 
 ( 1 758) had bought negro slaves, proposed to their quarterly 
 meeting, to have the minute reconsidered in the yearly meet- 
 ing, which was made last on that subject; and the said quar- 
 terly meeting appointed a committee to consider it, and to 
 report to their next. This committee having met once and 
 adjourned, and I going to Philadelphia to meet a committee 
 of the yearly meeting, was in town the evening on which the 
 quarterly meeting's committee met the second time ; and 
 finding an inclination to sit with them, I, with some others, 
 was admitted: and friends had a weighty conference on 
 the subject. Soon after their next quarterly meeting, I heard 
 that the" case was coming to our yearly meeting. This 
 brought a weighty exercise upon me, and under a sense of 
 my own infirmities, and the great danger I felt of turning 
 aside from- perfect purity, my mind was often drawn to retire 
 alone, and put up my prayers to the Lord, that He would be 
 graciously pleased to strengthen me ; that setting aside aE 
 views of self-interest and the friendship of this world, I might 
 stand fully resigned to his holy will. 
 
 In this yearly meeting, several weighty matters were con- 
 sidered ; and toward the last, that in relation to dealing with 
 persons who purchase slaves. During the several sittings of 
 the said meeting, my mind was frequently covered with in- 
 ward prayer ; and I could say with David, " that tears were 
 my meat day and night." The case of slave-keeping lay 
 heavy upon me ; nor did I find any engagement to speak 
 directly to any other matter before the meeting. Now when 
 this case was opened, several faithful friends spake weightily 
 thereto, with which I was comforted ; and feeling a concern 
 to cast in my mite, I said in substance as follows : 
 
 " In the difiiculties attending us in this life, nothing is 
 more precious than the mind of truth inwardly manifested ; 
 and it is my earnest desire, that in this weighty matter, we 
 
66 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 may be so truly humbled as to be favoured with a clear under- 
 standing of the mind of truth, and follow it; this would be of 
 more advantage to the society, than any medium not in the 
 clearness of divine wisdom. The case is difficult to some who 
 have slaves ; but if such set aside all self-interest, and come to 
 be weaned from the desire of getting estates, or even from hold- 
 ing them together, when truth requires the contrary, I believe 
 way will so open that they will know how to steer through 
 those difficulties." 
 
 Many friends appeared to be deeply bowed under the 
 weight of the work; and manifested much firmness in their 
 love to the cause of truth and universal righteousness on 
 the earth. And though none did openly justify the practice of 
 slave-keeping in general, yet some appeared concerned, lest the 
 meeting should go into such measures, as might give uneasiness 
 to many brethren ; alleging, that if friends patiently continued 
 under the exercise, the Lord, in his time, might open a way 
 for the deliverance of these people. Finding an engagement 
 to speak, I said, "My mind is often led to consider the pu- 
 rity of the Divine Being, and the justice of his judgments ; 
 [and herein my soul is covered with awfulness. I cannot omit 
 to hint of some cases, where people have not been treated with 
 the purity of justice, and the event hath been lamentable. 
 Many slaves on this continent are oppressed, and their 
 cries have reached the ears of the Most High. Such are 
 the purity and certainty of his judgments,] that He cannot 
 be partial in our favour. In infinite love and goodness. 
 He hath opened our understandings from one time to ano- 
 ther, concerning our duty towards this people; and it is not 
 a time for delay- Should we now be sensible of what He 
 requires of us, and through a respect to the private interest of 
 some persons, or through a regard to some friendships which 
 do not stand on an immutable foundation, neglect to do our 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 67 
 
 duty in firmness and constancy, still waiting for some extra- 
 ordinary means to bring about their deliverance ; God may by 
 terrible things in righteousness answer us in this matter." 
 
 Many faithful brethren laboured with great firmness ; and 
 the love of truth, in a good degree, prevailed. Several who 
 had negroes, expressed their desire that a rule might be made, 
 to deal with such friends as offenders who bought slaves in 
 future. To this it was answered, that the root of this evil 
 would never be eflfectually struck at, until a thorough search 
 was made into the circumstances of such friends as kept 
 negroes, with respect to the righteousness of their motives in 
 keeping them, that impartial justice might be administered 
 throughout. Several friends expressed their desire, that a visit 
 might be made to such friends as kept slaves : and many others 
 said that they believed liberty was the negroe right ; to which, 
 at length no opposition was publicly made. A minute was 
 made more full on that subject, than any heretofore; and the 
 names of several friends entered, who were free to join in a 
 visit to such as kept slaves. 
 
 CHAP. VI. 
 1758.— 1759. 
 
 Visit to the quarterly meetings in Chester county. — Joins Daniel 
 Stanton and John Scarborough, in a visit to such as kept slaves there. 
 — Some observations on the conduct which those should maintain who 
 speak in meetings for discipline. — More visits ta such as kept slaves, 
 and to friends near Salem. — Account of the yearly meeting in the 
 year 1759, and of the increasing concern in divers provinces, to labour 
 against buying and keeping slaves.— The yearly meeting epistle. — 
 Thoughts on the small-pox spreading — and an inoculation. 
 
 11th of 11th, mo. 1758. This day I set out for Concord,- 
 the quarterly meeting heretofore held there, was now, by rea- 
 
68 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 son of a great increase of members, divided into two by the 
 agreement of friends at our last yearly meeting. Here I met with 
 our beloved friends Samuel Spavold and Mary Kirby from 
 England, and with Joseph White from Bucks county; the 
 latter had taken leave of his family in order to go on a religious 
 visit to friends in England; and, through divine goodness, 
 we were favoured with a strengthening opportunity together. 
 After this meeting I joined with my friends Daniel Stanton 
 and John Scarborough in visiting friends who had slaves. At 
 night we had a family meeting at William Trimble's, many 
 young people being there ; and it was a precious, reviving 
 opportunity. Next morning we had a comfortable sitting 
 with a sick neighbour ; and thence to the burial of the corpse 
 of a friend at Uwchland meeting, at which were many people, 
 and it was a time of divine favour ; after which, we visited 
 some who had slaves. In the evening we had a family meet- 
 ing at a friend's house, where the channel of gospel love was 
 opened, and my mind was comforted after a hard day's labour. 
 The next day we were at Goshen monthly meeting ; and on the 
 18th attended the quarterly meeting at London Grove, it being 
 the first held at that place. Here we met again with all the 
 before-mentioned friends, and had some edifying meetings. 
 •Near the conclusion of the meeting for business, friends were 
 incited to constancy in supporting the testimony of truth, and 
 reminded of the necessity which the disciples of Christ are 
 under, to attend principally to his business, as he is pleased to 
 open it to us ; and to be particularly careful to have our 
 minds redeemed from the love of wealth ; and our outward 
 affairs in as little room as may be ; that no temporal concerns 
 may entangle our affections, or hinder us from diligently fol- 
 lowing the dictates of truth, in labouring to promote the pure 
 spirit of meekness and heavenly-mindedness amongst the chil- 
 dren of men, in these days of calamity and distress, wherein 
 God is visiting our land with his just judginents. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 69 
 
 Each of these quarterly meetings was large, and sat near 
 eight hours. I had occasion to consider that it is a weighty 
 thing to speak much in large meetings for business : for, ex- 
 cept our minds are rightly prepared, and we clearly understand 
 the case we speak to, instead of forwarding, we hinder busi- 
 ness, and make more labour for those on whom the burden of 
 the work is laid. If selfish views, or a partial spirit, have any 
 room in our minds, we are unfit for the Lord's work ; if we 
 have a clear prospect of the business, and proper weight on 
 our minds to speak, we should avoid useless apologies and 
 repetitions. Where people are gathered from far, and ad- 
 journing a meeting of business is attended with great difficulty, 
 it behoves all to be cautious how they detain a meeting ; es- 
 pecially when they have sat six or seven hours, and have a 
 great distance to ride home. After this meeting I rode home. 
 
 In the beginning of the 12th month, I joined in company 
 with my friends John Sykes and Daniel Stanton in visiting 
 such as had slaves. Some, whose hearts were rightly exercised 
 about them, appeared to be glad of our visit ; but in some 
 places our way was more difficult. I often saw the necessity 
 of keeping down to that root from whence our concern pro- 
 ceeded ; and have cause, in reverent thankfulness, humbly to 
 bow down before the Lord, who was near to me, and preserved 
 my mind in calmness under some sharp conflicts, and begat a 
 spirit of sympathy and tenderness in me, towards some who 
 were grievously entangled by the spirit of this world. 
 
 1st. month, 1759. Having found-my mind drawn to visit 
 some of the more active members in our society at Philadel- 
 phia, who had slaves, I met my friend John Churchman there 
 by agreement ; and we continued about a week in the city. 
 We visited some that were sick, and some widows and their 
 families ; and the other part of our time was mostly employed 
 in visiting such as had slaves. It v/as a time of deep exercise. 
 
70 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 but looking often to the Lord for his assistance, He in unspeak- 
 able kindness, favoured us with the influence of that spirit, 
 which crucifies to the greatness and splendour of this world, 
 and enabled us to go through some heavy labours, in which 
 we found peace. 
 
 24th of 3rd mo. 1759. After attending our general 
 spring meeting at Philadelphia, I again joined with John 
 Churchman on a visit to some who had slaves in Philadelphia ; 
 and, with thankfulness to our heavenly father, I may say, that 
 divine love and a true sympathizing tenderness of heart, pre- 
 vailed at times in this service. 
 
 Having at times perceived a shyness in some friends of 
 considerable note towards me, I found an engagement in gos- 
 pel love to pay a visit to one of them ; and as I dwelt under 
 the exercise, I felt a resignedness in my mind to go and tell 
 him privately that I had a desire to have an opportunity with 
 him alone ; to this proposal he readily agreed : and then in 
 the fear of the Lord, things relating to that shyness were 
 searched to the bottom ; and we had a large conference, which, 
 I believe was of use to both of us ; and I am thankful that 
 way was opened for it. 
 
 14th of 6th mo. Having felt drawings in my mind to visit 
 friends about Salem, and having the approbation of our 
 monthly meeting, I attended their quarterly meeting, and was 
 out seven days, and attended seven meetings ; in some of them 
 I was chiefly silent ; in others, through the baptizing power 
 of truth, my heart was enlarged in heavenly love, and I 
 found a near fellowship with the brethren and sisters, in the 
 manifold trials attending their Christian progress through this 
 world. 
 
 7th mo. I have found an increasing concern on my mind 
 to visit some active members in our society who have slaves ; 
 and having no opportunity of the company of such as were 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. Jl 
 
 named in the minutes of the yearly meeting, I went alone to 
 their houses, and, in the fear of the Lord, acquainted them 
 with the exercise I was under : and thus, sometimes, by a few 
 words, I found myself discharged from a heavy burden. Af-- 
 ter this, our friend John Churchman coming into our province 
 with a view to be at some meetings, and to join again in the 
 visit to those who had slaves ; I bore him company in the said 
 visit to some active members, and found inward satisfaction. 
 
 At our yearly meeting this year, we had some weighty 
 seasons ; in which the power of truth was largely extended, to 
 the strengthening of the honest-minded. As the epistles, 
 which were to be sent to the yearly meetings on this continent 
 were read, I observed that in most of them, both this year and 
 the last, it was recommended to friends to labour against buying 
 and keeping slaves ; and in some of them the subject was 
 closely treated upon. As this practice hath long been a heavy 
 exercise to me, and I have often waded through mortifying 
 labours on that account ; and at times in some meetings have 
 been almost alone therein, I was humbly bowed in thankfulness 
 in observing the increasing concern in our religious society, 
 and seeing how the Lord was raising up and qualifying servants 
 for his work, not only in this respect, but for promoting the 
 cause of truth in general. 
 
 This meeting continued near a week. For several days 
 in the forepart of it, my mind was drawn into a deep, inward 
 stillness ; and being at times covered with the spirit of sup- 
 plication, my heart was secretly poured out before the Lord. 
 Near the conclusion of the meeting for business, way opened, 
 in the pure Sowings of divine love, for me to express what lay 
 upon me ; which as it thenjB||se in my mind, was first to 
 show how deep answers to deep in the hearts of the sincere and 
 upright; though, in their different growths, they may not all 
 have attained to the same clearness in some points relating to 
 
72 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 our testimony. And I was then led to mention the integrity 
 and constancy of many martyrs, who gave their lives for the 
 testimony of Jesus : and yet, in some points, they held doc- 
 trines distinguishable from some which we hold ; that, in all 
 ages, where people were faithful to the light and understanding 
 which the Most High afforded them, they found acceptance 
 with Him ; and though there may be different ways of think- 
 ing amongst us in some particulars, yet, if we mutually keep 
 to that spirit and power which crucifies to the world, which 
 teaches us to be content with things really needful, and to avoid 
 all superfluities, and give up our hearts to fear and serve the 
 Lord, true unity may still be preserved amongst us : that if 
 those who were at tiines under sufferings on account of some 
 scruples of conscience, kept low and humble, and in their con- 
 duct in life manifested a spirit of true charity ; it would be 
 more likely to reach the witness in others, and be of more ser- 
 vice in the church, than if their sufferings were attended with a 
 contrary spirit and conduct. In this exercise I was drawn 
 into a sympathizing tenderness with the sheep of Christ, how- 
 ever distinguished one from another in this world ; and the 
 like disposition appeared to spread over others in the meeting. 
 Great is the goodness of the Lord towards his poor creatures. 
 An epistle went forth from this yearly meeting, which I 
 think good to give a place in this journal. It is as follows : 
 
 JFrom the yearly meeting held at Philadelphia, for Pennsylvania, 
 and New Jersey, from the twenty second day of the ninth month, to 
 the twenty eighth of the same, inclusive, 1759. 
 
 To the quarterly and monthly r^oHngs of Friends belonging to the 
 said year^lfecting . 
 
 Dearly beloved Friends and Brethren. 
 
 " In an awful sense of the wisdom and goodness of the 
 Lord our God, whose tender mercies have been continued to 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 73 
 
 US in this laud, we affectionately salute you, with sincere and 
 fervent desires, that we may reverently regard the dispensations 
 of his providence, and improve under them. 
 
 " The empires and kingdoms of the earth are subject to his 
 Almighty power. He is the God of the spirits of all flesh; 
 and deals with his people agreeable to that wisdom, the depth 
 whereof is to us unsearchable. We, in these provinces may 
 say, He hath, as a gracious and tender parent, dealt bountifully 
 with us, even from the days of our fathers. It was He who 
 strengthened thein to labour through the difficulties attending 
 the improvement of a wilderness, and made way for them in 
 the hearts of the natives ; so that by them they were comforted 
 in times of want and distress. It was by the gracious influen- 
 ces of his Holy Spirit, that they were disposed to work right- 
 eousness, and walk uprightly towards each other, and towards 
 the natives ; in life and conversation to manifest the ex- 
 cellency of the principles and doctrines of the Christian 
 religion whereby they retain their esteem and friendship. 
 Whilst they were labouring for the necessaries of life, many 
 of them were fervently engaged to promote piety and virtue in 
 the earth, and to educate their children in the fear of the Lord. 
 " If we carefully consider the peaceable measures pur- 
 sued in the first settlement of the-land, and that freedom 
 from the desolations of wars, which for a long time we en- 
 joyed, we shall find ourselves under sirong obligations to the 
 Almighty, who, when the earth is so generally polluted with 
 wickedness, gives us a being in a part so signally favoured 
 with tranquility and plenty, and in which the glad tidings 
 of the gospel of Christ are so freely published, that we may 
 justly say with the psalmist, " What shall we render unto 
 the Lord for all his benefits?" 
 
 "Our own real good, and the good of our posterity, in 
 some measure depends on the part we act ; and it nearly con- 
 
 D 
 
74 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 cern8 us to try our foundations impartially. Such are the 
 different rewards of the just and unjust in a future state, that 
 to attend diligently to the dictates of the spirit of Christ, to 
 devote ourselves to his service, and to engage fervently in his 
 cause, during our short stay in this world, is a choice well 
 becoming a free intelligent creature. We shall thus clearly 
 see and consider that the dealings of God with mankind, in a 
 national capacity, as recorded in holy writ, do sufficiently 
 evidence the truth of that saying, "It is righteousness which 
 exalteth a nation ;" and though he doth not at all times sud- 
 denly execute his judgments on a sinful people in this life, 
 yet we see in many instances, that when " men follow lying 
 vanities, they forsake their own mercies;" and as a proud 
 selfish spirit prevails and spreads among a people; so partial 
 judgment, oppression, discord, envy, and confusions increase, 
 aiid provinces and kingdoms are made to drink the cup of 
 adversity as a reward of their own doings. Thus the inspired 
 prophet, reasoning with the degenerated Jews, saith, " Thine 
 own wickedness shall correct thee, and thy backslidings shall 
 reprove thee : know therefore, that it is an evil thing and 
 bitter, that thou hast forsaken the Lord thy God, and that 
 my fear is not in thee, saith the Lord God of Hosts." 
 Jeremiah ii. 19. 
 
 " The God of our fathers, who hath bestowed on us many 
 benefits, furnished a table for us in the wilderness, and made 
 the deserts and solitary places to rejoice; He doth now 
 mercifully call upon us to serve Him more faithfully — We 
 may truly say with the prophet, " It is his voice which crieth 
 to the city, and men of wisdom see his name. They regard 
 the rod, and Him who hath appointed it." People who look 
 chiefly at things outward, too little consider the original cause 
 of the presetit troubles ; but they who fear the Lord, and 
 think often upon his name, see and feel that a wrong spirit is 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 75 
 
 spreading amongst the inhabitants of our country ; that the 
 hearts of many are waxed fat, and their ears dull of hearing ; 
 that the Most High, in his visitations to us, instead of calling, 
 lifteth up his voice and crieth ; He crieth to our country, 
 and his voice waxeth louder and louder. In former wars be- 
 tween the English and other nations, since the settlement of 
 our provinces, the calamities attending them have fallen chiefly 
 on other places, but now of late they have reached to our 
 borders ; many of our fellow subjects have suffered, on and 
 near our frontiers, some have been slain in battle, some killed 
 in their houses, and some in their fields, some wounded and 
 left in great misery, and others separated from their wives and 
 little children, who have been carried captives among the 
 Indians. We have seen men and women who have been 
 witnesses of these scenes of sorrow, and being reduced to 
 want, have come to our houses asking relief. — It is not long 
 since many young men in one of these provinces were 
 draughted, in order to be taken as soldiers ; some were 
 at that time in great distress, and had occasion to consider 
 that their lives had been too little conformable to the pu- 
 rity and spirituality of that religion which we profess, and 
 found themselves too little acquaitited with that inward 
 humility, in which true fortitude to endure hardness for the 
 truth's sake is experienced. — Many parents were concerned 
 for their children, and in that time of trial were led to consi- 
 der, that their care to get outward treasure for them, had been 
 greater than their care for their settlement in that religion 
 which crucifieth to the world, and eiiableth to bear a clear 
 testimony to the peaceable government of the Messiah. 
 These troubles are removed, and for a time we are released 
 from them. 
 
 " Let us not forget that 'The Most High hath his way 
 in the deep, in clouds, and in thick darkness' — that it is 
 
 d3 
 
70 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 liis voice which crieth to the city and to the country ; and oh ! 
 that these loud and awakening cries, maj have a proper effect 
 upon us, that heavier chastisement may not become neces- 
 sary ! For though things, as to the outward, may for a 
 short time afford a pleasing prospect ; yet, while a selfish 
 spirit, that is not subject to the cross of Christ, continueth to 
 spread and prevail, there can be no long continuance in out- 
 ward peace and tranquility. If we desire an inheritance 
 incorruijlible, and to be at rest in that state of peace and hap- 
 piness, which ever continues ; if we desire in this life to dwell 
 under the favour and protection of that Almighty Being, 
 whose habitation is in holiness, whose ways are all equal, and 
 whose anger is now kindled because of our backslidings ; let 
 us then awfully regard these beginnings of his sore judg- 
 ments, and with abasement and humiliation turn to Him, 
 whom we have offended. 
 
 " Contending with one equal in strength, is an uneasy ex- 
 ercise ; but if the Lord is become our enemy, if we persist 
 in contending with Him who is Omnipotent, our overthrow 
 will be unavoidable. 
 
 " Do we feel an affectionate regard to posterity? and are 
 we employed to promote their happiness ? Do our minds, in 
 things outward, look beyond our own dissolution? and are we 
 contriving for the prosperity of our children after us ? Let us 
 then, like wise builders, lay the foundation deep ; and by 
 our constant uniform regard to an inward piety and virtue, 
 let them see that we really value it. Let us labour in the 
 fear of the Lord, that their innocent minds, while young and 
 tender, may be preserved from corruptions ; that as they ad- 
 vance in age, they may rightly understand their true interest; 
 may consider the uncertainty of temporal things ; and, above 
 all, have their hope and confidence firmly settled in the bless- 
 ing of that Almighty Being, who inhabits eternity,- and pre- 
 serves. and supports the world. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 77 
 
 " In all our cares about worldly treasures, let us steadily 
 bear in mind, that riches possessed by children, who do not 
 truly serve God, are likely to prove snares that may more 
 grievously entangle them in that spirit of selfishness and ex- 
 altation, which stands in opposition to real peace and happi- 
 ness ; and renders those who submit to the influence of it, 
 enemies to the cross of Christ. 
 
 " To keep a watchful eye towai-ds real objects of charity, 
 to visit -the poor in their lonesome dwelling-places, to comfort 
 those who, through the dispensations of Divine Providence, 
 are in strait and painful circumstances in this life, and steadily 
 to endeavour to honour God with our substance, from a 
 real sense of the love of Christ influencing our minds is 
 more likely to bring a blessing to our children, and will afford 
 more satisfaction to a christian favoured with plenty, than an 
 earnest .desire to collect much wealth to leave behind us ; for, 
 "Here we have no continuing city ;" may we therefore dili- 
 gently "seek one that is to come, whose builder and maker 
 is God." 
 
 " Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatso- 
 ever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever 
 things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report ; if 
 there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these 
 things " and do them, and the God of peace shall be witli you." 
 
 Signed by appointment, and on behalf of our said meeting, 
 by seven friends. - 
 
 28th llthmo. This day I attended the quarterly-meet- 
 ing in Bucks county. In the meeting of ministers and 
 elders, my heart was enlarged in the love of Jesus Christ; 
 and the favour of the Most High was extended to us in that 
 and in the ensuing meeting. 
 
 I had conversation, at my lodging, with my beloved 
 friend Samuel Eastburn; who e.xpressed ^ concern to join ii> 
 
78 THE JOXIUNAL OF 
 
 a visit to some friends in that county, who had negroes ; and 
 as I had felt a drauglit in my mind to the said work, I came 
 home and put things in order. On 1 1 th of 1 2 mo. , I went over 
 the river ; and on the next day was at Buckingham meeting; 
 where, through the descendings of heavenly dew, my mind 
 was comforted, and drawn into a near unity with the flock 
 of Jesus Christ. 
 
 Entering upon this visit appeared weighty ; and before I 
 left home my mind was often sad ; under which exercise I 
 felt, at times, the Holy Spirit which helps our infirmities ; and 
 through which my prayers were, at times, piit up to God in 
 private, that He would be pleased to purge me from all selfish- 
 ness, that I might be strengthened to discharge my duty 
 faithfully, how hard soever to the natural part. We pro- 
 ceeded on the visit in a weighty frame of spirit, and went to 
 the houses of the most active members who had negroes 
 throughout the county. Through the goodness of the Lord, 
 my mind was preserved in resignation in times of trial ; and 
 though the work was hard to nature, yet through the strength 
 of that love which is stronger than death, tenderness of heart 
 was often felt amongst us in our visits, and we parted from 
 several families with greater satisfaction than we expected. 
 
 We visited Joseph White's family, he being in England ; 
 we had also a family-sitting at the house of an elder who 
 bore us company, and were at Makefield on a first day : at 
 all which times, my heart was truly thankful to the Lord, who 
 was graciously pleased to renew his loving kindness to us, 
 his poor servants, uniting us together in his work. 
 
 In the winter of this year, the small pox being in our 
 town, and many being inoculated, of whom a few died, some 
 things were opened in my mind, which I wrote as follows : 
 
 The more fully our lives are conformable to the will of 
 God, the better it is for us—- 1 have looked on the small-pox 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 79 
 
 as a messenger from the Almighty, to oe an assistant in the 
 cause of virtue, and to incite lis to consider, whether v/e em- 
 ploy our time only in such things as are consistent with 
 perfect wisdom and goodness. Building houses suitable to 
 dwell in, for ourselves and our creatures ; preparing cloth- 
 ing suitable for the climate and season, and food convenient, 
 are all duties incumbent on us. And, under these general 
 heads, are many branches of business, in which we may ven- 
 ture health and life, as necessity may require. 
 
 This disease being in a house, and my business calling me 
 to go near it, incites me to consider whether this is a real 
 indispensable duty; whether it is not in conformity to 
 some custom, which would be better laid aside; or, whether 
 it does not proceed from too eager a pursuit after some out- 
 ward treasure. If the business before me springs not from a 
 clear understanding, and a regard to that use of things which 
 perfect wisdom approves; to be brought to a sense of it, and 
 stopped in my pursuit, is a kindness ; for, when I proceed to 
 business without some evidence of duty, I have found by ex- 
 perience that it tends to weakness. 
 
 If I am so situated that there appears no probability of 
 missing the infection, it tends to make me think, whether ray 
 manner of life in things outward, has nothing iu it which 
 may unfit my body to receive this messenger in a way the 
 most favourable to me. Do I use food and drink in no otlier 
 sort, and in no other degree, than was designed by Him, who 
 gave these creatures for our sustenance ? Do I never abuse 
 my body by inordinate labour, striving to accomplish some 
 end which I have unwisely proposed ? Do I use action enough 
 in some useful employ, or do I sit too much idle, while 
 some persons, who labour to support me, have too great a 
 share of it? If in any of these things I am deficient, to be 
 incited to consider it, is a favour to me. Employment is ne. 
 
80 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 cessary in social life; and this infection, which often proves 
 mortal, incites me to think, whether these social acts of mine 
 are real duties. If I go on a visit to the widows and father- 
 less, do I go purely on a principle of charity, free from any 
 selfish views ? If I go to a religious meeting, it puts me on 
 thinking, whether I go in sincerity and in a clear sense of 
 duty ; or whether it is not partly in confoiinity to custom, 
 or partly from a sensible delight which my animaj spirits feel 
 in the company of other people ; and whether to support 
 my reputation as a religious man has no share in it. 
 
 Do affairs relating to civil society, call me near this infec- 
 tion? If I go, it is at the hazard of my health and life; and 
 it becomes me to think seriously, whether love to truth and 
 righteousness is the motive of my attending; whether the 
 manner of proceeding is altogether equitable; or whether 
 aught of narrowness, party interest, respect to outward dig- 
 nities, names, or distinctions among men, do not stain the 
 beauty of those assemblies, and render it doubtful, in point 
 of duty, whether a disciple of Christ ought to attend as a 
 member united to the body or not. Whenever there are 
 blemishes, which, for a series pf time, remain such ; that 
 which is a means of stirring us up to look attentively on these 
 blemishes, and to labour according to our capacities, to have 
 health and soundness restored in our country, we may justly 
 account a kindness from our gracious Father, who appointed 
 that means. 
 
 The care of a wise and good man for his only son, is infe- 
 rior to the regard of the great Parent of the universe for his 
 creatures. He hath the command of all the powers and ope- 
 rations in nature ; and " doth not afflict willingly, nor grieve 
 the children of men." Chastisement is intended for instruc, 
 tion, and instruction being received by gentle chastisement, 
 greater calaniitiess aye preyprited. By an earthquake, hun-, 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 81 
 
 dreds of houses are sometimes shaken down in a few minutes ; 
 multitudes of people perish suddenly, and many more being 
 crushed and bruised in the ruins of the buildings, pine away 
 and die in great misery. 
 
 By the breaking in of enraged merciless armies, flourishing 
 countries have been laid waste, great nunibers of people have 
 perished in a short time, and many more have been pressed 
 with poverty and grief. By the pestilence, people have died so 
 fast in a city, that through fear, grief, and confusion, those in 
 health have found great difficulty in burying the dead, even 
 without coffins. By famine, great numbers of people in some 
 places, have been brought to the utmost distress, and have pined 
 away for want of the necessaries of life. Thus, when the kind 
 invitations, and gentle chastisements, of a gracious God have 
 not been attended to, his sore judgments have, at times, been 
 poured out upon people. 
 
 While some rules approved in civil societj', and conform- 
 able to human policy, so called, are distinguishable from the 
 purity of truth and righteousness ; while many professing the 
 truth are declining from that ardent love and heavenly-mind - 
 edness which was amongst the primitive followers of Jesus 
 Christ ; it is time for us' to attend diligently to the intent of 
 every chastisement, and to consider the most deep and inward 
 design of them. 
 
 The most High doth not often speak with an outward 
 voice to our outward ears ; but if we humbly meditate on 
 his perfections, consider that he is perfect wisdom arid good- 
 ness, and that to afflict his creatures to no purpose, would hf 
 utterly averse to his nature, we shall hear and understand his 
 language, both in his gentle and more heavy chastisements and 
 shall take heed that we do not, in the wisdom of this world, 
 endeavour to escape his hand by means too powerful for us, 
 
 Had he endowed men with understanding to prevent 
 d3 
 
83 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 this disease, (tlie small pox) by means which had never 
 p'ovc-d hurtful nor mortal, * such a discovery might be con- 
 sidered as the period of chastisement by this distemper, 
 where.that knowledge extended. But as life and health are 
 his gifts, and are not to be disposed of in our own wills, 
 to take upon ns, by inoculation, when in health, a disorder, 
 of which some die, requires great clearness of knowledge, 
 that it is our duty to do so. 
 
 CHAP. VII. 
 1760. 
 
 Visit, in company with Samuel Eastburn, to Long Island, 
 Rhode Island, Boston, §-e, — Remarlts on the slave trade at Neic- 
 port ; also on lotteries. — Some ohservutions on the island of Nan- 
 tuclu't. 
 
 4th mo. 1760. Having, for some time past, felt a sym- 
 pathy in my mind with friends eastward, I opened my con- 
 cern in our monthly meeting ; and, obtaining a certificate, set 
 forward on the seventeenth of this month, in company with 
 my beloved friend Samuel Eastburn. We had meetings at 
 Woodbridge, Eahaway, and Plainfield ; and were at their 
 monthly meeting of ministers and elders in Eahaway. We 
 laboured under some discouragement; but through the in- 
 visible power of truth, our visit was made reviving to the 
 lowly-minded, with whom I felt a near unity of spirit, being 
 much reduced in my mind. We passed on, and visited most 
 of the meetings on Long Island. It was my concern, from 
 day to day, to say neither more nor less than wh^t the spirit 
 of truth opened in me, being jealous over myself, lest I should 
 say any thing to make my testimony look agreeable to that 
 mind in people, which is not in pure obedience to the cross 
 of Christ. 
 
 " May not vaccination be considered that innocent means? 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 83 
 
 The spring of the miuistry was often low ; and, through 
 the subjectmg power of truth, we were kept low with it : 
 from place to place, they whose hearts were truly concerned 
 for the cause • of Christ, appeared to be comforted in our la- 
 bours ; and though it was in general a time of abasement of 
 the creature, yet, through His goodness who is a helper of the 
 poor, we had some truly edifying seasons both in meetings, and 
 in families where we tarried : sometimes we found strength 
 to labour earnestly with the unfaithful, especially with those 
 whose station in families, or in the societj', was such, that their 
 example had a powerful tendency to open the way for others 
 to go aside, from the purity and soundness of the blessed 
 truth. 
 
 At Jericho, on Long Island, I wrote home as follows : 
 
 24th of the 4th month, 1 760. 
 " Dearly beloved wife ! 
 
 " We are favoured with health ; have been at sundry 
 meetings in East Jersey, and on this island. My mind 
 hath been much in an inward, watchful frame, since I left 
 thee, greatly desiring that our proceedings may be singly in 
 the will of our heavenly Father. 
 
 "As the present appearance of things is not joyous, I 
 have been much shut up from outward cheerfulness, remem- 
 bering that promise : " Then shalt thou delight thyself in the 
 Lord ; " — as this, from day to day, has been revived in my 
 memory, I have considered that his internal presence in our 
 minds, is a delight of all others the most pure ; and that the 
 honest-hearted not only delight in this, but in the effect of it 
 upon them. He regards the helpless and distressed, and 
 reveals his love to his children under affliction, who delight 
 in beholding his benevolence, and in feeling divjne charity 
 
84 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 moving in them. Of this I may speak a little; for though 
 since I left you, I have often found an engaging love and affec- 
 tion towards thee and my daughter, and friends about home, 
 and going out at this time, when sickness is so great amongst 
 you, is a trial upon me ; yet 1 often remember there are many 
 widows and fatherless, many who have poor tutors, many 
 who have evil examples before them, and many whose minds 
 are in captivity ; for whose sake my heart is, at times, moved 
 with compassion ; so that I feel my mind resigned to leave you 
 for a season, to exercise that gift which the Lord hath be- 
 stowed on me ; which though small compared with some, yet 
 in this I rejoice, that I feel love unfeigned towards my fellow 
 creatures. I recommend you to the Almighty, who I trust 
 cares for you ; and under a sense of his heavenly love, remain, 
 
 " Thy loving husband, 
 
 "J. W." 
 
 We crossed from the east end of Long Island to New 
 London, about thirty miles, in a large open boat ; while we 
 were out, the wind rising high, the waves several times beat 
 over us, so that to me it appeared dangerous ; but my mind 
 was at that time turned to Him, who made and governs the 
 deep, and my life was resigned to Him : as He was mercifully 
 pleased to preserve us, I had fresh occasion to consider every 
 day, as a day lent to me ; and felt a renewed engagement to 
 devote my time, and all I had, to Him who gave it. 
 
 We had five meetings in Narraganset ; and went thence to 
 Newport on Rhode Island. Our gracious Father preserved 
 us in an humble dependence on him through deep exercises, 
 that were mortifying to the creaturely will. In several families 
 in the country where we'ledged, I felt an engagement on my 
 mind to have a conference with them in private, concern- 
 ing their slaves; and, through divine aid, I was favoured 
 to give up thereto. Though in this co iceni, I differ from 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 85 
 
 many, whose service in travelling is, I believe, greater than 
 mine ; yet I do not think hardly of them for omitting it; I do 
 not repine at having so unpleasant a task assigned me, but 
 look with awfulness to Him, who appoints to his servants 
 their respective employments, and is good to all who serve 
 Him sincerely. 
 
 We got to Newport in the evening; and on the next day 
 visited two sick persons, with whom we had comfortable sit- 
 tings, and in the afternoon attended the burial of a friend. 
 The next day we were at meetings at Newport, in the forenoon 
 &nd afternoon ; the spring of the ministry was opened, and 
 strength was given to declare the Word of Life to the people. 
 
 The day following we went on our journey ; but the great 
 number of slaves in these parts, and the continuance of that 
 trade from thence to Guinea, made a deep impression on me ; 
 and ray cries were often put up to my heavenly Father in 
 secret, that He would enable me to discharge my duty faith- 
 fully, in such way as He might be pleased to point out 
 to me. W^ 
 
 We took Swansea, Freetown, and Tanton, in our way to 
 Boston; where also we had a meeting ; our exercise was deep, 
 and the love of truth prevailed ; for which I bless the Lord. 
 We went eastward about eighty miles beyond Boston, taking 
 meetings, and were in a good degree preserved in an humble 
 dependence on that arm which drew us out; and though we 
 had some hard labour with the disobedient, by laying things 
 home and close to such as were stout against the truth ; yet 
 through the goodness of God, we had at times to jiartake of 
 heavenly comfort with those who were meek, and were often 
 favoured to part with friends in the nearness of true gospel fel- 
 lowship. We returned to Boston, and had another comfort- 
 able opportunity with friends there; and thence rode back a 
 day's journey eastward of Boston. Our guide being a heavy 
 
86 THE JOURNAL OF W 
 
 man, and the weather hot, my companion and I expressed our 
 freedom to go on without him; to which he consented, and we 
 respectfully took our leave of him : this we did, as believ- 
 ing the journey would have been hard to him and his horse. 
 
 In visiting the meetings in those parts, we were measur- 
 ably baptized into a feeling of the state of the society ; and in 
 bowedness of spirit went to the yearly meeting at Newport ; 
 where we met with John Storer from England, Elizabeth 
 Shipley, Ann Gaunt, Hannah Foster, and Mercy Redman, 
 from our parts ; all ministers of the gospel, of whose com- 
 pany I was glad. Understanding that a large number of 
 slaves had been imported from Africa into that town, and 
 were then on sale by a member of our society, my appetite 
 failed, and I grew outwardly weak, and had a feeling of the 
 condition of Habakkuk, as thus expressed : " When I heard 
 my belly trembled, my lips quivered, I trembled in myself, 
 that I might rest in the day of trouble." I had many cogita- 
 tions, and was sorely distressed. 1 was desirous that friends 
 might petitflp the legislature, to use their endeavours to dis- 
 courage the future importation of slaves; for I saw that this 
 trade was a great evil, and tended to multiply troubles, and 
 to bring distresses on the people for whose welfare my 
 heart was deeply concerned. But I perceived several diffi- 
 culties in regard to petitioning; and such was the exer- 
 cise of my mind, that I thought of endeavouring to get an 
 opportunity to speak a few words in the House of Assembly, 
 then sitting in town. 
 
 This exercise came upon me in the afternoon, on the second 
 day of the yearly meeting, and ongoing to bed, I got no sleep 
 till my mind was wholly resigned thereto. In the morning I 
 enquired of a friend how long the Assembly was likely to 
 continue sitting ; who told me, it was expected to be pro- 
 rogued that day or the next. As I was desirous to attend the 
 
JOHN WOOLMAI^. 87 
 
 business of the meeting, and perceived^ie Assembly was 
 likely to separate before the business was over; after consi- 
 derable exercise, humbly seeking to the Lord for instruction, 
 my mind settled to attend on the business of the meeting ; 
 on the last day of which, I had prepared a short essay of a 
 petition to be presented to the legislature, if way opened. 
 And being informed that there were some appointed, by that 
 yearly meeting, to speak with those in authority, on cases re- 
 lating to the society, I opened my mind to several of them, 
 and shewed them the essay I had made; and afterwards I 
 opened the case in the meetyig for business, in substance as 
 follows : 
 
 " I have been under a concern for some time, on account 
 of the great number of slaves which are imported into this 
 colony. I am a^ware that it is a tender point to speak to, but 
 apprehend I am not clear in the sight of Heaven, without doing 
 so. I have prepared- an essay of a petition to be presented to 
 the legislature, if way open ; and what I have to propose to 
 this meeting is, that some- friends may be named to withdraw 
 and look over it, and report whether they believe it suitable 
 to be read in the meeting. If they should think well of read- 
 ing it, it will remain for the meeting, to consider, whether 
 to take any further notice of it, as a meeting, or not." After 
 a short conference some friends went out, and looking 
 over it, expressed their willingness to have it read ; which 
 being done, many expressed their unity with the propo- 
 sal ; and some signified, that to have the subjects of the 
 petition enlarged upon, and signed out of meeting by such as 
 were free, would be more suitable than to do it there. Though 
 I expected at first, that if it was done it would be in that way ; 
 vet such was the exercise of my mind, that to move it in the 
 hearing of friends when assembled, appeared to me as a 
 duty ; for my heart yearned towards the nhabitants of these 
 
8S THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 parts ; believing tWt by this trade there had been an increase 
 of inquietude amongst them, and way had been made for the 
 spreading of a spirit opposite to that meekness and hu- 
 mility, which is a sure resting place for the soul : and that 
 the continuance of this trade, would not only render their 
 healing more difficult, but would increase their malady. 
 
 Having proceeded thus far, I felt easy to leave the essay 
 amongst friends, for them to proceed in it as they believed 
 best. And now an exercise revived on my mind in relation 
 to lotteries, which were common in those parts. I had men- 
 tioned the subject in a former sitting of this meeting, when 
 arguments were used in favour of friends being held excused, 
 who were only concerned in such lotteries as were agreeable 
 to law. And now on moving it again, it was opposed as be- 
 fore ; but the hearts of some solid friends appeared to be 
 united to discourage the practice amongst their members ; 
 and the matter was zealously handled by some on both sides. 
 In this debate it appeared very clear to me, that the spirit of 
 lotteries was a spirit of selfishness, which tended to confuse 
 and darken the understanding ; and that pleading for it in 
 our meetings, which were set apart for the Lord's work, was 
 not right. In the heat of zeal, I made reply to what an 
 ancient friend said, and when I sat down, I saw that my 
 words were not enough seasoned with charity. After this, I 
 spoke no more on the subject. At length a minute was made ; 
 a copy of which was to be sent to their several quarterly 
 meetings, inciting friends to labour to discourage the practice 
 amongst all professing with us. 
 
 Some time after this minute was made, I remained uneasy 
 with the manner of my speaking to the ancient friend, and 
 could not see my way clear to conceal my uneasiness, though 
 I was concerned that I might say nothing to weaken the cause 
 in which I had laboured. After some close exercise and 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 80 
 
 hearty repentance, for not jiaving attended closely to the safe 
 guide, I stood up, and reciting the passage, acquainted friends, 
 that though I durst not go from whatl had said as to the 
 matter, yet I was uneasy with the manner of my speaking, be- 
 lieving milder language would have been better. As this was 
 littered in some degree of creaturely abasement after a warm 
 debate, it appeared to have a good savour amongst us. 
 
 The yearly meeting being now over, there yet remained on 
 my mind a secret, though heavy exercise, in regard to some 
 leading active members about Newport, who were in the 
 practice of keeping slaves. This I mentioned to two ancient 
 friends who came out of the country, and proposed to them, 
 if way opened, to have some conversation with those members. 
 One of them and I, having consulted one of the most noted 
 elders who had slaves, he, in a respectful manner, encouraged 
 me to proceed to clear myself of what lay upon me. Near 
 the beginning of the yearly meeting, I had had a private 
 conference with this said elder and his wife, concerning 
 their slaves so that the way seemed clear to me, to advise with 
 him about the manner of proceeding. I told him, I was free 
 to have a conference with them altogether in a private house ; 
 or if he thought they would take it unkind to be asked to 
 come together, and to be spoken with in the hearing of one 
 another, I was free to spend some time amongst them, and 
 to visit them all in their own houses. He expressed his liking 
 to the first proposal, not doubting their willingness to como 
 together ; and as I proposed a visit to only ministers, elders, 
 and overseers, he named some others, whom he desired 
 might also be present. A careful messenger being wanted 
 to acquaint them in a proper manner, he offered to go 
 to all their houses to open the matter to them ; and 
 did so. About the eighth hour the next morning, we 
 met in the meeting-house chamber, the last-mentioned 
 
90 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 country friend, my companion, and John Storer being with 
 us. After a short time of retirement, I acquainted them with 
 the steps I had taken in procuring that meeting, and opened 
 the concern I was imder, and we then proceeded- to a free 
 conference upon the subject. My exercise was heavy, and 
 I was deeply bowed in spirit before the Lord, who was 
 pleased to favour with the seasoning virtue of truth, which 
 wrought a tenderness amongst us ; and the subject was mu- 
 tually handled in a calm and peaceable spirit. At length, 
 feeling my mind released from the burden which I had been 
 under, I took my leave of them, in a good degree of satisfac- 
 tion ; and by the tenderness they manifested in regard to the 
 practice, and the concern several of them expressed in rela- 
 tion to the manner of disposing of their negroes after their 
 decease, I believed that a good exercise was spreading 
 amongst them ; and I am humbly thankful to God who sup- 
 ported my mind, and preserved me in a good degree of resig- 
 nation through these trials. 
 
 Thou who sometimes traveUest in the work of the ministry, 
 and art made very welcome by thy friends, seest many 
 tokens of their satisfaction, in having thee for their guest. It 
 is good for thee to dwell deep, that thou mayest feel and 
 understand the spirits of people. If we believe truth points 
 towards a conference on some subjects, in a private way, it 
 is needful for us to take heed that their kindness, their free- 
 dom and affability, do not hinder us from the Lord's work. 
 I have experienced, that in the midst of kindness and smooth 
 conduct to speak close and home to them who entertain us, 
 on points that relate to their outward interest, is hard labour. 
 Sometimes, when I have felt truth lead towards it, I have 
 found myself disqualified by a superficial friendship ; and as 
 the sense thereof hath abased me, and my cries have been to 
 the Lord, so I have been humble^ and made content to ap- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 01 
 
 pear weak, or as a fool for his sake ; and thus a door hath 
 been opened to enter upon it. To attempt to do the Lord's Mork 
 in our own way, and to speak of that wliich is the-burden of 
 the word, in a way easy to the natural part, doth not reach 
 the bottom of the disorder. To see the failings of our friends, 
 and think hard of them, without opening that which we ought to 
 open, and still carry a face of friendship, tends to undermine 
 the foimdation of true unity. The office of a minister of 
 Christ is weighty. And they who now go forth as watch- 
 men, have need to be steadily on their guard against the 
 snares of prosperity, and an outside friendship. 
 
 After the yearly meeting, we were at meetings at New- 
 town, Cushnet, Long Plain, Rochester, and Dartmouth. 
 From thence we sailed for Nantucket, in company with Ann 
 Gaunt, Mercy Redman, and several other friends. The wind 
 being slack, we only reached Tarpawling Cove the first day ; 
 where, going on shore, we found room in a public-house, and 
 beds for a few of us ; the rest slept on the floor. We went on 
 board again about break of day ; and though the wind was 
 small, we were favoured to come within about four miles of 
 Nantucket ; and then about ten of us got into our boat, and 
 rowed to the harbour before dark ; a large boat went off and 
 brought in the rest of the passengers about midnight. The 
 next day but one was their yearly meeting, which held four 
 days ; the last of which was their monthly meeting for business. 
 We had a laborious time amongst them ; our minds were 
 closely exercised, and I believe it was a time of great searching 
 of heart. The longer I was on the island, the more I became 
 sensible that there was a considerable number of valuable 
 friends there, though an evil spirit, tending to strife, had been 
 at work amongst them. I was cautious of making any visits 
 except as my mind was particularly drawn to them ; and in 
 that way we had some sittings in friends' houses, where the 
 
02 THE JOUllNAL OF 
 
 heavenly wing was at times spread over us, to our mutual 
 comfort. My beloved companion had very acceptable service 
 on this island. 
 
 When meeting was over, we all agreed to sail the next day if 
 the weather was suitable, and we were well; and being called up 
 the latter part of the night, about fifty of us went on. board a 
 vessel ; but the wind changing, the seamen thought best to stay 
 in the harbour till it altered ; so we returned on shore. Feel- 
 ing clear as to any further visits, I spent my time in our 
 chamber chiefly alone ; and after some hours, my heart being 
 filled with the spirit of supplication, my prayers and tears were 
 poured out before my Heavenly Father, for his help and 
 instruction in the manifold difficulties which attended me in 
 life. While I was waiting upon the Lord, there came a mes- 
 senger from the women friends who lodged at another house, 
 desiring to confer with us about appointing a meeting, which 
 to me appeared weighty, as we had been at so many before ; 
 but after a short conference, and advising with some elderly 
 friends, a meeting was appointed, in which the friend who first 
 moved it, and who had been much shut up before, was largely 
 opened in the love of the gospel. The next morning, about 
 break of day, going again on board the vessel, we reached 
 Falmouth on the Main before night, where our horses being 
 brought, we proceeded towards Sandwich quarterly meeting. 
 
 Being two days in going to Nantucket, and having been 
 there once before, I observed many shoals in their bay, which 
 make sailing more dangerous, especially in stormy nights ; 
 also, that a grea^hoal, which encloses their harbour, prevents 
 the entrance of sloops, except when the tide is up ; waiting 
 without for the rising of the tide, is sometimes hazardous 
 jn storms : and by waitiijg within, they sometimes miss a fair 
 wind. I took notice, that there was on that small island a great 
 jjumbev of inhabitants, and the soil not very fertile ; the tim- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 93 
 
 ber being so gone, that for vessels, fences, and firewood, they 
 depend chiefly on buying from the Main ; for the cost whereof, 
 with most of their other expenses, they depend principally 
 upon the whale fishery. I considered, that as towns grew 
 larger, and lands near navigable waters were more cleared, it 
 would require more labour to get timber and wood. I under- 
 stood that the whales being much hunted, and sometimes 
 wounded- and not killed, grew more shy and difficult to come 
 at. I considered that the formation of the earth, the seas, the 
 islands, bays, and rivers, the motions of the winds, and great 
 waters, which cause bars and shoals in particular places, were 
 all the works of Him who is perfect wisdom and goodness ; 
 and as people attend to his heavenly instruction, and put their 
 trust in Him, He provides for them in all parts, where he 
 gives them a being. And as in this visit to these people, I felt 
 a strong desire for their firm establishment on the sure found- 
 ation ; besides what was said more publicly, 1 was concerned 
 to speak with the women friends, in their monthly meethig of 
 business, many being present; and in the fresh spring of pure 
 love, to open before them the advantage, both inwardly and 
 outwardly, of attending singly to the pure guidance of the 
 Holy Spirit, and therein to educate their children in true hu- 
 mility, and the disuse of all superfluities. I reminded them of 
 the difl^iculties their hushands and sons were frequently ex- 
 posed to at sea ; and that the more plain and simple their way 
 of living was, the less need there would be of running great 
 hazards lo support them ; I also encouraged the young women 
 to continue their neat decent way of attending themselves on 
 the affairs of the house ; shewing, as the way opened, that 
 where people were truly humble, used themselves to business, 
 and were content with a plain way of life, they had ever had 
 more true peace and calmness of mind, thau they who, aspi- 
 rino- to greatness and outward show, have grasped hard for an 
 
94 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 income to support themselves therein. And as I observed 
 they had few or no slaves, I had to encourage them to be con- 
 tent without them ; making mention of the numerous troubles 
 and vexations, which frequently attended the minds of 
 people, who depend on slaves to do their labour. 
 
 We attended the quarterly meeting at Sandwich, in com- 
 pany with Ann Gaunt and Mercy Bedman, which was preceded 
 by a monthly meeting ; and in the whole held three days. 
 We were in various ways exercised amongst them, in gospel 
 love, according to the several gifts bestowed on us ; and 
 were at times overshadowed with the virtue of truth, to the 
 comfort of the sincere, and stirring up of the negligent. 
 Here we parted with Ann and Mercy, and went to Rhode 
 Island, taking one meeting in our way, which was a satis- 
 factory time. Reaching Newport the evening before 
 their quarterly meeting, we attended it ; and afler that, 
 had a meeting with our young people, separated from 
 those of other societies. We went through much labour 
 in this town ; and now, in taking leave of it, though I felt 
 close inward exercise to the last, I found inward peace ; and 
 was in some degree comforted in a belief, that a good rium- 
 ber remain in that place who retain a sense of truth ; and that 
 there are some young people attentive to the voice of the 
 heavenly Shepherd. The last meeting, in which friends from 
 the several parts of the quarter came together, was a select 
 meeting ; and through the renewed manifestation of the 
 Father's love, the hearts of the sincere were united together. 
 
 The poverty of spirit and inward weakness, with which 
 I was much tried the forepart of this journey, has of late 
 appeared to me a dispensation of kindness. Appointing 
 meetings never appeared more weighty to mo ; and I was 
 led into a deep search, whether hi all things my mind was re- 
 signed to the will of God; often querying with myself, what 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 96 
 
 should be the cause of such inward poverty ; and greatly 
 desiring that no secret reserve in my heart might hinder my 
 access to the Divuie fountain. In these humbling times I 
 was made watchful, and excited to attend to the secret 
 movings of the heavenly principle in my mind, which pre- 
 pared the way to some duties, that, in more easy and prosper- 
 ous times, as to the outward, I believe I should have been 
 in danger of omitting. 
 
 From Newport we went to Greenwich, Shanticut, and 
 Warwick ; and were helped to labour amongst friends in the 
 love of our gracious Redeemer. Afterwards, accompanied by 
 our friend John Casey from Newport, we rode through Con- 
 necticut to Oblong, visited the meetings of friends in those 
 parts, and thence proceeded to the quarterly meeting at 
 Ryewoods. Through the gracious extendings of divine help, 
 we had some seasoning opportunities in those places. We 
 also visited friends at New York and Flushing ; and thence 
 to Rahaway. Here our roads parting, I took leave of my 
 beloved companion and true yokemate Samuel Eastburn ; 
 Eind reached home the 10th of 8th month, where I found my 
 family well. For the favours and protection of the Lord, 
 both inward and outward, extended to me in this journey, 
 my heart is humbled in grateful acknowledgments ; and I 
 find renewed desires to dwell and walk in resignedness before 
 Him. 
 
90 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 CHAP. VIII. 
 1761.— 1762. 
 
 Visits Pennsylvania, Shreicsbunj, and Squan. — Publishes the sec- 
 ond part of his Considerations on keeping Negroes. — The grounds of 
 his appearing in some respects singular in his dress. — Visit to the 
 families of friends of Ancocas and Mount Holly meetings. — Visits 
 to the Indians at Welialoosing on the river Susquehannah. 
 
 Having felt my mind drawn toward a visit to a few meet- 
 ings in Pennsylvania, I was very desirous to be rightly in- 
 structed as to the time of setting off. On the tenth of fifth 
 month, 1761, being tlie first day of the week, I went to Had- 
 donfield meeting, concluding to seek for heavenly instruction, 
 and come home, or goon, as I might then believe best for me ; 
 and there through the springing up of pure love, I felt en- 
 couragement, and so crossed the river. In this visit I was at 
 two quarterly and three monthly meetings ; and in the love of 
 truth, I felt my way open to lai'bour with some noted friends 
 who kept negroes. As I was favoured to keep to the root, 
 and endeavour to discharge what I believed was required of 
 me, I found inward peace therein, from time to time; and 
 thankfulness of heart to the Lord, who was graciously pleased 
 to be a guide to me. 
 
 8tli mo. 1761. Having felt drawings in my mind to 
 visit friends in and about Shrewsbury, I went there, and 
 Mas at their monthly meeting, and their first-day meeting ; I 
 had also a meeting at Squan and another at Squanquam ; and 
 as way opened, had conversation with some noted friends 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 07 
 
 concerning their slaves. I returned home in a thankful sense 
 of the goodness of the Lord. 
 
 From the concern I felt growing in me for some years, I 
 wrote part the second of a work entitled " considerations on 
 keeping Negroes," which was printed this year, 1762. When 
 the overseers of the press had done with it, they offered 
 to get a number printed, to be paid for out of the yearly meet- 
 ing's stock, to be given away ; but I being most easy to publish 
 it at my own expense, and offering my reasons, they appeared 
 satisfied. 
 
 This stock is the contribution of the members of our reli- 
 gious society ia general, among whom are some who keep 
 negroes ; and being inclined to continue them in slavery, are 
 not likely to be satisfied with such books being spread among 
 a people, especially at their own expense, many of whose 
 slaves are taught to read ; and such, receiving them as a gift, 
 often conceal them. But as they who make a purchase, gene- 
 rally buy that which they have a mind for, I believed it best ' 
 to sell them ; expecting by that means they would more gene- 
 rally be read with attention. Advertisements were signed by or- 
 der of the overseers of the press, and directed to be read in the 
 monthly meetings of business within our own yearly meeting, 
 informing where the books were, and that the price was no 
 more than the cost of printing and binding them. Many were 
 taken off in our parts ;'some I sent to Virginia, some to New 
 York, some to my acquaintance at Newport, and some I 
 kept, intending to give part of them away, where there 
 appeared a prospect of ser.vice. 
 
 In my youth I was used to hard labour ; and though I 
 was middling healthy, yet my nature was not fitted to endure' 
 so much as many others. Being often weary, I was prepared 
 to sympathize with those whose circumstances in life, as free 
 men, required constant labour to answer the demands of their 
 
 E 
 
98 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 creditors ; as well as with others under oppression. In the 
 uneasiness of body, which I have many times felt by too much 
 labour, not as a forced but a voluntary oppression, I haVe 
 often been excited to think on the original cause of that op- 
 pression, which is imposed on many in the world. The latter 
 part of the time wherein I laboured on our plantation, my 
 heart, through the fresh visitations of heavenly love, being 
 often tender ; and my leisure time being frequently spent in 
 reading the life and doctrines of our blessed Redeemer, the 
 account of the sufferings of martyrs, and the history of the 
 first rise of our society ; — a belief was gradually settled in my 
 mind, that if such as had great estates, generally lived in that 
 humility and plainness which belong to a Christian life, and 
 laid much easier rents and interests on their lands and monies, 
 and thus led the way to a right use of things, so great a num- 
 ber of people might be employed in things useful, that labour 
 both for men and other creatures would need to be no more 
 than an agreeable employ; and divers branches of business, 
 which serve chiefly to please the natural inclinations of our 
 minds, and which at present seem necessary to circulate that 
 wealth which some gather, might, in this way of pure wisdom, 
 be discontinued. As I have thus considered these things, a 
 query at times hath arisen : Do I, in all my proceedings, 
 keep to that use of things which is agreeable to universal 
 righteousness ? And then there hath some degree of sadness 
 at times come over me; because I accustomed myself to some 
 things, which have occasioned more labour than I believe Di- 
 vine wisdom intended for us. 
 
 From my early acquaintance with truth, I have often felt 
 an inward distress, occasioned by the striving of a spirit in me, 
 against the operation of the heavenly.principle ; and in this 
 state I have been affected with a sense of my own wretched- 
 ness ; and in a mourning condition have felt earnest longings 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 99 
 
 for that Divine help, which brings the soul into true liberty. 
 Sometimes on retiring into private places, the spirit of sup- 
 plication hath been given me ; and under an heavenly cover- 
 ing, I have asked my gracious Father, to give me a heart in 
 all things resigned to the direction of his wisdom ; in uttering 
 language like this, the thoughts of my wearing hats and gar- 
 ments dyed with a dye hurtful to them, have made lasting im- 
 pressions on me. 
 
 In visiting people of note in the society who had slaves, 
 and labouring with them in brotherly love on that account, 
 I have seen, and the sight has affected me, that a conformity 
 to some customs, distinguishable from pure wisdom, has en- 
 tangled many ; and that the desire of gain to support these 
 customs, has greatly opposed the work of truth. Sometimes, 
 when the prospect of the work before me has been such that 
 in bowedness of spirit, I have been drawn into retired places, 
 and have besought the Lord with tears that he would take me 
 wholly under his direction, and show me the way in which I 
 ought to walk ; it hath revived with strength of conviction, 
 that if I would be his faithful servant, I must in all things at- 
 tend to his wisdom, and be teachable ; and so cease from all 
 customs contrary thereto, however used among religious 
 people. 
 
 As He is the perfection of power, of wisdom, and of good- 
 ness ; so I believe he hath provided, that so much labour 
 shall be necessary for men's support in this world, as would, 
 being rightly divided, be a suitable employment of their time ; 
 and that we cannot go into superfluities, or grasp after wealth 
 in a way contrary to his wisdom, without having connexion 
 with some degree of oppression, and with that spirit which 
 leads to self-exaltation and strife, and which frequently brings 
 calamities on countries, by parties contending about their 
 
 claims. 
 
 e2 
 
100 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 Being thus fully convinced, and feeling an increasing de- 
 sire to live in the spirit of peace ; I have often been sorrow- 
 fully affected with thinking on the unquiet spirit in which wars 
 are generally carried on, and with the miseries of many of my 
 fellow creatures engaged therein ; some suddenly destroyed ; 
 some wounded, and after much pain remaining cripples ; some 
 deprived of all their outward substance, and reduced to want ; 
 and some carried into captivity. Thinking often on these 
 things, the use of hats and garments dyed with a dye hurtful 
 to them, and wearing more clothes in summer than are useful, 
 grew more uneasy to me ; believing them to be customs 
 which have not their foundation in pure wisdom. The ap- 
 prehension of being singular from my beloved friends, was a 
 strait upon me ; and thus I contmued in the use of some 
 things contrary to my judgment. 
 
 On the 31st of 5th mo. 1761, 1 was taken ill of a fever ; 
 and after it had continued near a week, I was in great distress 
 of body. One day there was a cry raised in me, that I might 
 understand the cause of my affliction, and improve under it ; 
 and my conformity to some customs, which I believed were 
 not right, was brought to my remembrance. In the continu- 
 ance of this exercise, I felt all the powers in me yield them- 
 selves up into the hands of Him who gave me being ; and 
 was made* thankful that He had taken hold of me by his 
 chastisements. Feeling the necessity of further purifying, 
 there was now no desire in me for health, until the design of 
 my correction was answered. Thus I lay in abasement and 
 brokenness of spi^rit, and as I felt a sinking down into a calm 
 resignation, so I felt, as in an instant, an inward healing in 
 my nature ; and from that time forward I grew better. 
 
 Though my mind was thus settled in relation to hurtful 
 dyes, I felt easy to wear my garments heretofore made; and 
 continued to do so about nine months. Then I thought of 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 101 
 
 getting a hat the natural colour of the fur ; but the appre- 
 hension of being looked upon as one affecting singularity, felt 
 uneasy to me. Here I had occasion to consider that things, 
 though small in themselves, being clearly enjoined by Divine 
 authority, become great things to us ; and I trusted that the 
 Lord would support me in the trials that might attend singu- 
 larity, so long as singularity vi&s only for his sake. On this 
 account, I was under close exercise of mind in the time of our 
 general spring meeting 1762, greatly desiring to be rightly 
 directed; when being deeply bowed in spirit before the Lord, 
 I was made willing to submit to what I apprehended was re- 
 quired of me ; and when I returned home, got a hat of the 
 natural colour of the fur. 
 
 In attending meetings, this singularity was a trial to me, 
 and more especially at this time, as white hats were used by 
 some who were fond of following the changeable modes uH 
 dress ; and as some friends, who knew not fr.om what motives 
 I wore it, grew shy of me, I felt my way for a time shut up in 
 the exercise of the ministry. In this condition, my mind 
 being turned toward my Heavenly Father, with fervent cries 
 that I might be preserved to walk before him in the meekness 
 of wisdom, my heart was often tender in meetings ; and I 
 felt an inward consolation, which to me was very precious un- 
 der these difficulties. 
 
 I had several dyed garments fit for use, which I believed 
 it best to wear, till I had occasion for new ones. Some friends 
 were apprehensive, that my wearing such a hat savoured of an 
 affected singularity ; those who spoke with me in a friendly 
 way, I generally informed, in a few words, that I believed my 
 wearing it, was not in my own will. I had at times been sen^ 
 sible, that a superficial friendship had been dangerous to me ; 
 and many friends being now uneasy with me, I had an incli^ 
 nation to acquaint some with the me^nner of my being led into 
 
102 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 these things ; yet, upon a deeper thought, I was for a time 
 most easy to omit it, believing the present dispensation was 
 profitable ; and trusting, that if I kept my place, the Lord in 
 his own time would open the hearts of friends towards me. I 
 have since had cause to admire his goodness and loving kind- 
 ness, in leading about and instructing me, and in opening and 
 enlarging my heart in some of our meetings. 
 
 In the 11th month this year, feeling an engagement of 
 mind to visit some families in Mansfield, I joined my beloved 
 friend Benjamin Jones, and we spent a few days together in 
 that service. In the 2nd month, 1763, I joined in company 
 with Elizabeth Smith and Mary Noble, in a visit to the fami- 
 lies of friends at Ancoeas. In both these visits, through the 
 baptizing power of truth, the sincere labourers were often 
 comforted, and the hearts of friends opened to receive us. In 
 the 4th month following, I accompanied some friends in a 
 visit to the families of friends in Mount Holly ; during this 
 visit my mind was often drawn into an inward awfulness, 
 wherein strong desires were raised for the everlasting welfare 
 of my fellow-creatures; and through the kindness of our 
 Heavenly Father, our hearts were at times enlarged, and 
 friends were invited, in the flowings of Divine love, to attend 
 to that which would settle them on the sure foundation. 
 
 Having for many years felt love in my heart towards the 
 natives of this land, who dwell far back in the wilderness, 
 whose ancestors were formerly the owners and possessors of 
 the land where we dwell ; and who for a small consideration, 
 assigned their inheritance to us ; and being at Philadelphia in 
 the 8th month, 1761, on a visit to some friends who had 
 slaves, I fell in company with some of those natives who 
 lived on the east branch of the river Susquehannah, at an 
 Indian town called Wehaloosing, two hundred miles from 
 Philadelphia. In conversation with them by an interpreter, as 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 103 
 
 also by observations on their countenances and conduct, I 
 believed some of them were measurably acquainted with t'hat 
 Divine i^ov/eT which subjects the rough and froward will of 
 the creature. At times I felt inward drawings towards a visit 
 to that place ; which I mentioned to none except my dear wife, 
 until it came to some ripeness. In the winter of 1762, I laid 
 my prospects before my friends at our monthly and quarterly 
 and afterwards at our general spring meeting ; and having 
 the unity of friends, and being thoughtful about an Indian 
 pilot, there came a man and three women from a little be- 
 yond that town to Philadelphia, on business. Being informed 
 thereof by letter, I met them in town in the 5th month, 1763; 
 and after some conversation, finding they were sober people, 
 I, with the concurrence of friends in that place, agreed to join 
 them as companions in their return ; and we appointed to 
 meet at Samuel Foulk's, at Richland in Bucks county, on 
 the 7th of 6tli month. Now as this visit felf weighty, and 
 was performed at a time when travelling appeared perilous, so 
 the dispensations of Divine Providence in preparing my mind 
 for it, have been memorable ; and I believe it good for me to 
 give some account thereof. 
 
 After I had given up to go, the thoughts of the journey 
 were often attended with unusual sadness; at which times, my 
 heart was frequently turned to the Lord with inward breath- 
 ings for his heavenly support, that I might not fail to follow 
 him wheresoever He might lead me. Being at our youth's 
 meeting at Chesterfield, about a week before the time I ex- 
 pected to set off, I was there led to speak on that prayer of 
 our Redeemer to the Father : "I pray not that thou should- 
 est take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep 
 them from the evil." And in attending to the pure open- 
 ings of truth, I had to mention what He elsewhere said to 
 his Father; "I know that thou hearest me at all times:" so 
 
104 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 as some of his followers kept their places, and as his prayer 
 was granted, it followed necessarily that they were kept from 
 evil: and as some of those met with great hardships and 
 afflictions in this world, and at last suffered death by cruel 
 men; so it appears, that whatsoever befalls men, while they 
 live in pure obedience to God, certainly works for their good, 
 and may not be considered an evil as it relates to them. As 
 I spake on this subject, my heart was much tendered, and 
 great awfulness came over me. Gn the first day of the week, 
 being at our own afternoon jneeting, and my heart being en- 
 larged in love, I was led to speak on the care and protec- 
 tion of the Lord over his people, and to make mention of 
 that passage where a band of Assyrians who were endeavour- 
 ing to take captive the prophet, were disappointed ; and how 
 the psalmist said, "the angel of the Lord encampeth round 
 about them that fear Him." — Thus, in true love and ten- 
 derness, I parted from friends, expecting the next morning 
 to proceed on my journey. Being weary I went early to bed. 
 After I had been asleep a short time, I was awoke by a man 
 calling at my door ; and inviting me to meet some friends at 
 a public house m our town, who came from Philadelphia so 
 , late, that friends were generally gone to bed. These friends 
 informed me, that an express had arrived the last morning from 
 Pittsburg, and brought news that the Indians had taken a fort 
 from the English westward, and had slain and scalped some 
 English people near the said Pittsburg, and in divers places. 
 Some elderly friends in Philadelphia, knowing the time of my 
 intending to set off, had conferred together, and thought good 
 to inform me of these things, before I left home, that I might 
 consider them, and proceed as I believed best. Going to bed 
 again, I told not my wife till morning. My heart was turned 
 to the Lord for his Heavenly instruction ; and it was an 
 humbling time to me, W^jen I told my dear wife, she ap. 
 
N ^ 
 
 JOHN WOOLMAN. 105 
 
 peared to be deeply concerned about it ; but in a few hours 
 time, my mind became settled in a belief that it was my duty 
 to proceed on my journey; and she bore it with a good de- 
 gree of resignation. In this conflict of spirit there were great 
 searchings of heart, and strong cries to the Lord, that no mo- 
 tion might in the least degree be attended to, but that of the 
 pure spirit of truth. 
 
 The subjects before-mentioned, on which I had so lately 
 spoken in public, were now fresh before me; and I was 
 brought inwardly to commit myself to the Lord, to be dis- 
 posed of as He saw best. I took leave of my family and 
 neighbours, in much bowedness of spirit, and went to our 
 monthly meeting at Burlington. After taking leave of friends 
 there, I crossed the river, accompanied by my Jiriends Israel 
 and John Pemberton ; and parting the next morning with 
 Israel, John bore me company to Samuel Foulk's; where I 
 met the before-mentioned Indians, and we were glad to see 
 each other. Here my friend Benjamin Parvin met me, and 
 proposed joining me as a companion, we had before ex- 
 changed some letters on the subject ; and now I had a sharp 
 trial on his account ; for as the journey appeared perilous, I 
 thought if he went chiefly to bear me company, and we should 
 be taken captive, my having been the means of drawing him 
 into these difficulties, would add to my own afflictions ; so I 
 told him my mind freely, and let him know that I was re- 
 signed to go alone ; but after all, if he really believed it to 
 be his duty to go on, I believed his company would be 
 very comfortable to me. It was indeed a time of deep 
 exercise, and Benjamin appeared to be so fastened to the 
 visit, that he could not be easy to leave me; so we went on, 
 accompanied by our friends John Pemberton, and William 
 Liglitfoot of Pikeland ; we lodged at Bethlehem ; and there 
 e3 
 
106 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 parting with John, WiUiam and we went forward on the 9th 
 of the 6th month, and got lodging on the floor of a house, 
 about five miles from Fort Allen. Here wc parted with 
 William : and at this place we met with an Indian trader, 
 lately come from Wioming. In conversation with him I per- 
 ceived that many white people often sell rum to the Indians, 
 which I believe is a great evil ; in the first place they are 
 thereby deprived of the use of reason, and their spirits being 
 violently agitated, quarrels often arise which end in mischief ; 
 and the bitterness and resentment occasioned hereby, are 
 frequently of long continuance. Again, their skins and furs, 
 gotten through much fatigue and hard travels in hunting, 
 with which they intended to buy clothing, they often sell at a 
 low rate forbore rum, when they become intoxicated ; and 
 afterward,^^pn they suflfer for want of the necessaries of life, 
 are angry with those who, for the sake of gain, took advan- 
 tage of their weakness. Their chiefs have often complained 
 of this in their treaties with the English. Where cunning 
 people pass counterfeits, and impose on others that which is 
 good for nothing, it is considered as wickedness ; but for the 
 sake of gain to sell that which we know does people harm, 
 and which often works their ruin, manifests a hardened and 
 corrupt heart ; and is an evil which demands the care of all 
 true lovers of virtue to suppress. While my mind this even- 
 ing was thus employed, I also remembered that the people on 
 the frontiers, among whom this evil is too common, are often 
 poor ; and that they venture to the outside of a colony, in 
 order to live more independently of the wealthy, who often 
 set high rents on their land. I was renewedly confirmed in a 
 belief, that if all our inhabitants lived according to sound 
 wisdom, labouring to promote universal love and righteous- 
 ness, and ceased from every inordinate desire after wealth, 
 and from all customs which are tinctured with luxury, the way 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 107 
 
 would be easy for our inhabitants, though they might be 
 much more numerous than at present, to Hve comfortably on 
 honest employments, without the temptation they are so often 
 under, of being drawn into schemes to make settlements on 
 lands which have not been purchased of the Indians, or of 
 applying to that wicked practice of selling rum to them. 
 
 10th of 6th mo. We set out early this morning, and 
 crossed the western branch of Delaware, called the Great 
 Lehie near Fort Allen ; the water being high, we went over 
 in a canoe. Here we met an Indian, had friendly conversa- 
 tion with him, and gave him some biscuit ; and he, having 
 killed a deer, gave some of it to the Indians with us. After 
 travelling some miles, we met several Indian men and women 
 with a cow and horse, and some household goods, who were 
 lately come from their dwelling at Wioming, and were going 
 to settle at another place. We made them some small pre- 
 sents ; and as some of them understood English, I told them 
 my motive for coming into their country ; with which they 
 appeared satisfied. One of our guides talking awhile with an 
 ancient woman concerning us, the poor old woman came to 
 my companion and me, and took her leave of us with an ap- 
 pearance of sincere affection. We pitched our tent near the 
 banks of the same river, having laboured hard in crossing 
 some of those mountains called the Blue Ridge ; the rough- 
 ness of the stones, and the cavities between them, with the 
 steepness of the hills, made it appear dangerous. But we 
 were preserved in safety, through the kindness of Him whose 
 works in these mountainous deserts appeared awful, and to- 
 wards whom my heart was turned during this day's travel. 
 
 Near our tent, on the sides of large trees peeled for that 
 purpose, were various representations of men going to, and 
 returning from the wars, and of some being killed in battle. 
 This was a path heretofore used by warriors ; and as I walked 
 
108 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 about viewing those Indian histories, which were painted 
 mostly in red or black ; and thinking on the innumerable 
 afflictions which the proud, fierce spirit produceth in the 
 world ; also on the toils and fatigues of warriors in travelling * 
 over mountains and deserts ; on their miseries and distresses 
 when far from home, and wounded by their enemies ; of their 
 bruises and great weariness in chasing one another over the 
 rocks and mountains ; of the restless, unquiet state of mind 
 of those who live in this spirit, and of the hatred which mu- 
 tually grows up in the minds of their children ; the desire to 
 cherish the spirit of love and peace among these people arose 
 very fresh in me. This was the first night that we lodged in 
 the woods; and being wet with travelling in the rain, as were 
 also our blankets, the ground, ovir tent, and the bushes under 
 which we purposed to lay, all looked discouraging ; but I be- 
 lieved, that it was the Lord who had thus far brought me 
 forward, and that He would dispose of me as He saw good; 
 and so I felt easy. We kindled a fire, with our tent open to 
 it ; then laid some bushes next the ground, and put our blan- 
 kets upon them for our bed, and lying down got some sleep. 
 In the morning feeling a little unwell, I went into the river; 
 the water was cold, but soon after I felt fresh and well. 
 About 8 o'clock we set forward, and crossed a high mountain 
 supposed to be upward of four miles over, the north side 
 being the steepest. About noon we were overtaken by one of 
 the Moravian brethren, going to Wehaloosing, and an Indian 
 man with him, who could talk English ; and we being toge- 
 ther while our horses ate grass, had some friendly conversa- 
 tion; but they, travelling faster than we, soon left us. This 
 Moravian, I understood, had this spring spent some time at 
 Wehaloosing; and was invited by some of the Indians to 
 come again. 
 
 IMi of 6th mo., being the first of the week, and a rainy 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 109 
 
 day, we continued in our tent ; and I was led to think on the 
 nature of the exercise which hath attended me. Love was 
 the first motion, and thence a concern arose to spend some 
 time with the Indians, that I'feiight feel and understand their 
 life, and the spirit they live in, if haply I might receive some 
 instruction from them; or they might be in any degree helped 
 forward by my following the leadings of truth among them : 
 and as it pleased the Lord to make way for my going at a time 
 when the troubles of war were increasing, and when by rea- 
 son of much wet weather, travelling was more diiTicult than 
 usual at that season, I looked upon it as a more favourable op- 
 portunity to season my mind, and to bring me into a nearer 
 sympathy with them. As mine eye was to the great Father of 
 mercies, humbly desiring to learn his will concerning me, I 
 was made quiet and content. 
 
 Our guide's horse strayed, though hoppled, in the night ; 
 and after searching some time for him, his footsteps were dis- 
 covered in the path going back, whereupon my kind compan- 
 ion went off in the rain, and after about seven hours returned 
 with him. Here we lodged again; tying up our horses be- 
 fore we went to bed, and loosing them to feed about break 
 of day. 
 
 1 3th of 6th mo. The sun appearing, we set forward ; and 
 as I rode over the barren hills, my meditations were on ihe 
 alterations in the circumstances of the natives of this land, 
 since the coming in of the English. The lands near the sea 
 are conveniently^ situated for fishing; the lands near the rivers, 
 where the tides flow, and some above, are in many places 
 fertile, and not mountainous ; while the changing of the 
 tides, makes passing up and down easy with any kind of traf- 
 fick. The natives have, in some places, for trifling conside- 
 rations, sold their inheritance so favourably situated ; and 
 in other places have been driven back by superior force : 
 
no THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 their way of clothing themselves is also altered from what it 
 was, and they being far removed from us, have to pass over 
 mountains, swamps, and barren deserts ; so that travelling is 
 very troublesome in bringing their skins and furs to trade 
 with us. By the extension of English settlements, and partly 
 by the increase of English hunters, the wild beasts on which 
 the natives chiefly depend for subsistence, are not so plentiful 
 as they were ; and people too often, for the sake of gain, in- 
 duce them to waste their skins and furs, in purchasing a liquor 
 which tends to the ruin of them and their families. 
 
 My own will and desires were now very much broken, and 
 my heart was with much earnestness, turned to the Lord, to 
 whom alone I looked for help in the dangers before me. I 
 had a prospect of the English along the coast, for upwards of 
 nine hundred miles, where I travelled ; and their favourable 
 situation and the difficulties attending the natives as well as 
 the negroes in many places, were open before me. A weighty 
 and heavenly care came over my mind, and love filled my 
 heart towards all mankind, in which I felt a strong engage- 
 ment that we might be obedient to the Lord, while in tender 
 mercy, he is yet calling to us ; and that we might so attend 
 to pure universal righteousness, as to give no just cause of 
 offence to the gentiles, who do not profess Christianity, 
 whether they be the blacks from Africa, or the native inhabi- 
 tants of this continent. Here I was led into a close and la- 
 borious inquiry, whether I, as an individual, kept clear from 
 all things which tended to stir up, or were connected with 
 wars, either in this land or in Africa ; my heart was deeply 
 concerned, that in future I might in all things keep steadily 
 to the pure truth, and live and walk in the plainness and sim- 
 plicity of a sincere follower of Christ. In this lonely journey, 
 I did greatly bewail the spreading of a wrong spirit, believing 
 that the prosperous, convenient situation of the English, 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN, 111 
 
 would require a constant attention in us to Divine love and 
 wisdom, in order to their being guided and supported, in a 
 way answerable to the will of that good, gracious, and Al- 
 mighty Being, who hath an equal regard to all mankind. And 
 here luxury and covetousness, with the numerous oppressions, 
 and other evils attending them, appeared very afflicting to me ; 
 and I felt in that which is immutable, that the seeds of great 
 calamity and desolation are sown and growing fast on this 
 continent. Nor have I words sufficient to set forth the long- 
 ing I then felt, that we, who are placed along the coast, and 
 have tasted the love and goodness of God, might arise in the 
 strength thereof; and like faithful messengers, labour to 
 check the growth of these seeds, that they may not ripen to the 
 ruin of our posterity. 
 
 On reaching the Indian settlement at Wioming, we were 
 told, that an Indian runner had been at that place a day or 
 two before us, and brought news of the Indians having taken 
 an English fort westward, and destroyed the people ; and that 
 they were endeavouring to take another ; also, that another 
 Indian runner came there about the middle of the previous 
 night, from a town about ten miles from Wehaloosing, and 
 brought the news, that some Indian warriors from distant 
 parts, came to that town with two English scalps, and told 
 the people that it was war with the English. 
 
 Our guides took us to the house of a very ancient man. 
 Soon after we had put in our. baggage, there came a man from 
 another Indian house some distance off. Perceiving there was a 
 man near the door, I went out ; the man had a tomahawk wrap- 
 ped under his matchcoat out of sight. As I approached him, 
 he took it in his hand ; I went forward, and speaking to him 
 in a friendly way, perceived he understood some English. 
 My companion joining me, we had some talk with him con- 
 cerning the nature of our visit In these parts ; he then went 
 
112 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 into the house with us, and talking with our guides, soon 
 appeared friendly, sat down, and smoked his pipe. Though 
 taking his hatchet in his hand at the instant I drew near to 
 him, had a disagreeable appearance, I believe he had no other 
 intent than to be in readiness in case any violence were 
 offered to him. 
 
 On hearing the news brought by these Indian runners, and 
 being told by the Indians where we lodged, that the Indians 
 about Wioming expected in a few days to move to some larger 
 towns, I thought, to all outward appearance, it would be dan- 
 gerous travelling at this time. After a hard day's journey, I 
 was brought into a painful exercise at night, in which I had to 
 trace back and view the steps I had taken from my first 
 moving in the visit ; and though I had to bewail some weak- 
 ness which at times had attended me, yet I could not find 
 that I had ever given way to wilful disobedience. Believing 
 I had, under a sense of duty, come thus far, I was now ear- 
 nest in spirit, beseeching the Lord to show me what I ought 
 to do. In this great distress I grew jealous of myself, lestthe 
 desire of reputation, as a man firmly settled to persevere 
 through dangers, or the fear of disgrace from my returning 
 without performing the visit, might have some place in me. 
 Full of these thoughts, I lay great part of the night, while my 
 beloved companion slept by me, tiU the Lord, my gracious 
 Father, who saw the conflicts of my soul, was pleased to give 
 quietness : then I was again strengthened to commit my life, 
 and all things relating thereto, into his heavenly hands ; and 
 got a little sleep towards day. 
 
 1 1th of 6th mo. We sought out and visited all the Indians 
 hereabouts that we could meet with, in number about twenty; 
 they were chiefly in one place, about a mile from where we 
 lodged. I expressed to them the care I had on my mind for 
 their good; and told them, that true love had made me will- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 113 
 
 ing thus to leave my family to come and see the Indians, and 
 speak with them in their houses. Some of them appeared kind 
 and friendly. After taking leave of them, we went up the 
 river Susquehannah, about three miles, to the house of an 
 Indian, called Jacob January. He had killed his hog ; and the 
 women were making store of bread, and preparing to move 
 up the river. Here our pilots had left their canoe when they 
 came down in the spring, and lying dry it had become leaky ; 
 this detained us some hours, so that we had a good deal of 
 friendly conversation with the family ; and eating dinner with 
 them, we made them some small presents : then putting our 
 baggage into the canoe, some of them pushed slowly up the 
 stream, and the rest of us rode our horses ; we swam them 
 over a creek, called Lahawahamunk, and pitched our tent 
 above it in the evening. In a sense of God's goodness in 
 helpmg me in my distress, sustaining me under trials, and 
 inclining my heart to trust in Him, I lay down in an humble, 
 bowed frame of mind, and had a comfortable night's lodging. 
 15th of 6th mo. We proceeded forward till the afternoon, 
 when a storm appearing, we met our canoe at an appointed 
 place, and staid aU night, the rain continuing so heavy that it 
 beat through our tent, and wet both us and our baggage. The 
 next day, we found abundance of trees blown down by the 
 storm yesterday ; and had occasion reverently to consider the 
 kind dealings of the Lord, who provided a safe place for us in 
 a valley, -while this storm continued. We were much hinder- 
 ed by the trees which had fallen across our path ; and in some 
 swamps our way was so stopped that we got through with ex- 
 treme difficulty. I had this day often to consider myself as a 
 sojourner in this world. A belief in the all-sufficiency of God 
 to support his people in their pilgrimage, felt comfortable to 
 me ; and I was industriously employed to get to a state of 
 perfect resignation. 
 
114 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 We seldom saw our canoe but at appointed places, by rea- 
 son of the path going off from the river. This afternoon, Job 
 Chilaway, an Indian from Wehaloosing, who talks good Eng- 
 lish, and is acquainted with several people in and about Phil- 
 adelphia, met our people on the river. Understanding where 
 we expected to lodge, he pushed back about six miles, and 
 came to us after night ; and in a while our own canoe arrived, 
 it being hard work pushing up the stream. Job told us, that 
 an Indian came in haste to their town yesterday, and told them, 
 that three warriors from a distance, lodged in a tov/n above 
 Wehaloosing, a few nights past; and that these three men 
 were going against the English at Juniata. Job was going 
 down the river to the province-store at Shamokin. Though 
 I was so far favoured with health as to continue travelling ; 
 yet, through the various difficulties in our journey, and the 
 different way of living from which I had been used to, I grew 
 sick. The news of these warriors being on their march so 
 near us, and not knowing whether we might not fall in with 
 them, was a fresh trial of my faith ; and though, through the 
 strength of Divine love, I had several times been enabled to 
 commit myself to the Divine disposal, I still found the want 
 of a renewal of my strength, that I might be able to perse- 
 vere therein ;■ and my cries for help were put up to the Lord, 
 who, in great mercy, gave me a resigned heart, in which 1 
 found quietness. 
 
 Parting from Job Chilaway, on the 17th, we went on, and 
 reached Wehaloosing about the middle of the afternoon. The 
 first Indian that we saw, was a woman of a modest counte- 
 nance, with a bible, who spake first to our guide ; and then 
 with an harmonious voice, expressed her gladness at seeing us, 
 having before heard of our coming. By the direction of our 
 guide, we sat down on a log, whUe he went to the town, 
 to tell the people wp weye come. My companion apd I sit- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 115 
 
 ting thus together, in a deep inward stilLiess, the poor wo- 
 man came and sat near us ; and great awfuhiess coming over 
 us, we rejoiced in a sense of God's love manifested to our 
 poor souls. After a while, we heard a coneh-shell blow sever- 
 al times, and then came John Curtis, and another Indian man, 
 who kindly invited us into a house near the town, where we 
 found about sixty people sitting in silence. After sitting with 
 them a short time, I stood up, and in some tenderness of spirit 
 acquainted them, in a few short sentences, with the nature of 
 my visit ; and that a concern for their good had made me will- 
 ing to come thus far to see them ; which some of them under- 
 standing, interpreted to the others, and there appeared gladness 
 among them. I then shewed them my certificate, which 
 was explained to them ; and the Moravian who overtook us 
 on the way, being now here, bade me welcome. But the Indi- 
 ans knowing that this Moravian and I were of different religi- 
 ous societies, and as some of their people had encouraged him 
 to come and stay a while with them, they were, I believe, 
 concerned that there might be no jarring or discord in their 
 meetings ; and having I suppose conferred together, they 
 acquainted me that the people, at my request, would at any 
 time come together, and hold meetings ; they also told me, 
 that they expected the Moravian would speak in their settled 
 meetings ; which are commonly held in the morning and near 
 evening. So finding liberty in my heart to speak to the Mo- 
 ravian, I told him of the care I felt on my mind for the good 
 of these people ; and my belief that no iU eflTeots would follow, 
 if I sometimes spake in their meetings, when love engaged me 
 thereto, without calling them together at times when they did 
 not meet of course. He expressed his good-wiU towards my 
 speaking at any time, all that I foxmd in my heart to say. 
 
 On the evening of the 18th, I was at their meeting, where 
 pure gospel love was felt, to the tendering of some of our 
 
116 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 hearts. The interpreters endeavoured to acquaint the people 
 with what I said, in short sentences, but found some difficulty, 
 as none of them were quite perfect in the English and Delaware 
 tongues, so they helped one another, and we laboured along. 
 Divine love attending. Afterwards, feeling my mind covered 
 with the spirit of prayer, I told the interpreters that I found 
 it in my heart to pray to God, and believed, if I prayed aright. 
 He would hear me ; and I expressed my willingness for them 
 to omit interpreting ; so our meeting ended with a degree of 
 Divine love. Before the people went out, I observed Papunc- 
 hang (the man who had been zealous in labouring for a re- 
 formation in that town, being then very tender) speaking to 
 one of the interpreters ; and I was afterwards told that he said 
 in substance as follows : " I love to feel where words come 
 from." 
 
 19th of 6th mo. and first of the week. This morning the In- 
 dian who came with the Moravian, being also a member of that 
 society, prayed in the meeting, and then the Moravian spake a 
 short time to the people. In the afternoon my heart being fil- 
 led with a heavenly care for their good, I spake to them awhile 
 by interpreters ; but none of them being perfect in the work, 
 and I feeling the current of love run strong, tnld the interpret- 
 ers, that I believed some of the people would understand me, 
 and so I proceeded without them ; and I believe the Holy 
 Ghost wrought on some hearts to edification where all the 
 words were not understood. I looked upon it as a time of 
 Divine favour; 'fend my heart was tendered and truly thankful 
 before the Lord. After I sat down, one of the interpreters 
 seemed spirited to give the Indians the substance of what I 
 had said. 
 
 Before our first meeting this morning, I was led to medi- 
 tate on the manifold difficulties of these Indians, who, by the 
 permission of the Six Nations, dwell in these parts. A near 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 117 
 
 sympathy with them was raised in me ; and my heart being 
 enlarged in the love of Christ, I thought that the affectionate 
 care of a good man for his only brother in affliction, does not 
 exceed what I then felt for that people. I came to this place 
 through much trouble; and though, through the mercies of 
 Godj I believed that if I died in the journey, it would be well 
 with me ; yet the thoughts of falling into the hands of Indian 
 warriors, were in times of weakness, afflicting to me; and 
 being of a tender constitution of body, the thoughts of 
 captivity among them were also grievous ; supposing that 
 as they were strong and hardy, they might demand service of 
 me beyond what I could well bear. But the Lord alone was 
 my keeper ; and I believed, that if I went into captivity, it 
 would be for some good end. Thus, from time to time, my 
 mind was centred, in resignation, in which I always found 
 quietness. And this day, though I had the same dangerous 
 wilderness between me and home, I was inwardly joyful that 
 the Lord had strengthened me to come on this visit, and had 
 manifested a fatherly care over me in my poor lowly condition; 
 when, in mine own eyes, I appeared inferior to many among, 
 the Indians. 
 
 When the last mentioned meeting was ended, it being night, 
 Papunehang went to bed ; and hearing him speak with an 
 harmonious voice I suppose for a minute or two, I asked the 
 interpreter, who told me, that he was expressing, his thank- 
 fulness to God for the favours he had received that day ; and 
 prayed, that He would continue to favour him with the same, 
 which he had experienced in that meeting. Though Papune- 
 hang had before agreed to receive the Moravian, and join with 
 them, he still appeared kind and loving to us. 
 
 I was at two meetings on the 20 th, and silent in them. The 
 following morning, in meeting, my heart was enlarged in pure 
 love among them, and in short plain sentences, I expressed 
 
lis THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 several things that rested upon me, which one of the inter- 
 preters gave the people pretty readily. The meeting ended in 
 supplication, and I had cause humbly to acknowledge the 
 loving-kindness of the Lord towards us ; and then I believed 
 that a door remained open for the faithful disciples of Jesus 
 Christ, to labour among these people. And now, feeling my mind 
 at liberty to return, I took my leave of them in general, at the 
 conclusion of what I said in meeting ; and we then prepared 
 to go homeward. But some of their most active men told us, 
 that when we were ready to move, the people would choose 
 to come and shake hands with us ; those who usually came 
 to meeting did so ; and from a secret draught in my mind, I 
 went among some who did not usually go to meeting, and 
 took my leave of them also. The Moravian and his Indian 
 interpreter appeared respectful to us at parting. This town, 
 Wehaloosing, stands on the bank of the Susquehannah,' and 
 consists, I believe, of about forty houses, mostly compact 
 together ; some about thirty feet long, and eighteen wide, 
 some bigger some less. They are built mostly of split plank, 
 one end being set in the ground, and the other pinned to a 
 plate, on which rafters are laid, and then covered with bark, I 
 understand a great flood last winter overflowed the greater 
 part of the ground where the town stands ; and some were 
 now about moving their houses to higher ground. 
 
 We expected only two Indians to be of our company, but 
 when we were ready to go, we found many of them were going 
 to Bethlehem with skins and furs, and chose to go in com- 
 pany with us. So they loaded two canoes in which they 
 desired us to go, telling us, that the waters were so raised 
 with the rains, that the horses should be taken by such as 
 were better acquainted with the fording places. We there- 
 fore, with several Indians, went in the canoes, and others 
 went on horses, there being seven besides ours. We met 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 119 
 
 ith the hof Semen once on the way by appointment, and at 
 »ht we lodged a little below a branch called Tankhannah, 
 id some of the young men going out a little before dusk with 
 eir guns, brought in a deer. 
 
 Through diligence, we reached Wioming before night, the 
 Jnd, and understood that the Indians were mostly gone from 
 lis place. We went up a small creek into the woods with 
 ir canoes, and pitching our tent, carried out our baggage ; 
 id before dark our horses came to us. Next morning the 
 arses being loaded, and our baggage prepared, we set for- 
 ard being in all fourteen ; and with diligent travelling, were 
 .voured to get near half way to Fort Allen. The land on 
 lis road from Wioming to our frontier being mostly poor, 
 ad good grass being scarce, the Indians chose a piece of low 
 round to lodge on, as the best for grazing. 1 had sweat much 
 1 travelling, and being weary, slept soundly. In the night I 
 erceived that I had taken cold, of which I was favoured soon 
 3 get better. 
 
 24th of 6th mo. This day we passed Fort AUen, and lodged 
 ear it in the woods. We forded the westerly branch of the 
 )elaware three times, which was a shorter way, than going 
 ver the top of the blue mountains, called the Second Eidge. 
 n the second time of fording where the river cuts through the 
 lountain, the waters being rapid and pretty deep, my com- 
 anion's mare being a tall tractable animal, was sundry times 
 riven back through the river, being laden with the burdens 
 f some small horses, which were thought unable to tome 
 brough with their loads. The troubles westward, and the 
 ifficulty for Indians to pass through our frontier, was, I ap- 
 rehend, one reason why so many came, expecting that our 
 eing in company, would prevent the outside inhabitants being 
 urprised. 
 
 We reached Bethlehem on the 25th, taking care to keep 
 oremost, and to acquaint people, on and near the road, who 
 
120 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 these Indians were. This we found very needful ; for the fron- 
 tier inhabitants were often alarmed at the report of the 
 English being killed by Indians westward. Among our com- 
 pany were some whom I did not remember to have seen at 
 meeting ; and some of these at first were very reserved ; but we 
 being several days together, and behaving in a friendly manner 
 towards them, and making them suitable returns for the 
 services they did us, they became more free and sociable. 
 
 26th of 6th mo. Having carefully endeavoured to settle all 
 affairs with the Indians relative to our journey, we took 
 leave of them, and I thought they generally parted from us 
 affectionately. We went forward to Eichland, and had a very 
 comfortable meeting among our friends, it being the 1st day of 
 the week. Here I parted with my kind friend and companion 
 Benjamin Parvin; and accompanied by my friend Samuel 
 Foulk, we rode to John Cadwallader's, from whence I reached 
 home the next day, and found my family tolerably well. They 
 and my friends appeared glad to see me return from a journey 
 which they apprehended would be dangerous ; but my mind, 
 while I was out, had been so employed in striving for perfect 
 resignation, and had so often been confirmed in a belief, that 
 whatever the Lord might be pleased to allot for me, it would 
 work for good, that I was careful lest I should admit any de- 
 gree of selfishness in being glad overmuch, and laboured to 
 improve by those trials in such a manner as my gracious Fa- 
 tlier and Protector designed. Between the English settle- 
 ments and Wehaloosing, we had only a narrow path, which in 
 many places is much grown up with bushes, and interrupted 
 by abundance of trees lying across it ; these, together with the 
 mountain swamps, and rough stones, make it a difficult road 
 to travel ; and the more so because rattlesnakes abound here, 
 of which we killed four. People who have never been in 
 such places, have but an imperfect idea of them ; and I was 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 121 
 
 not only taught patience, but also made thankful to God, who 
 thus led about and instructed me, that I might have a quick 
 and lively feeling of the afflictions of my fellow-creatures, 
 whose situation in life is difficult. 
 
 CHAP. IX. 
 1763.— 1769. 
 
 Iteligious conversation with a company met to see the tricks of a 
 jnggler. — Account of John Smith's advice, and of the proceedings of a 
 Committee, at the yearly-meeting in 176-4 — Contemplations on the 
 nature of true wisdom. — Visit to the families of friends at Mount- 
 Holly, Mansfield, and Burlington, and to the meetings on the sea 
 coast from Cape May towards Squan.' — Some account of Joseph 
 Nichpls and Ms followers. — On the different state of the first settlers 
 in Pennsylvania who depended on their own labour, compared with 
 those of the southern provinces who kept negroes. — Visit to the 
 Northern parts of New-Jersey, and the ivestern parts of Maryland 
 and Pennsylvania, also to the families of friends at Mount-holly and 
 several parts of Maryland. Further considerations on keeping slaves ; 
 and his concern for having been a party to the sale of one. — Thoughts 
 on friends exercising offices in civil government. 
 
 The latter part of the summer, 1763, there came a man to 
 Mount Holly, who had previously published a printed adver- 
 tisement, that at a certain public house, he would show many 
 wonderful operations, which were therein enumerated. At 
 the appointed time he did, by sleight of hand, perform sun- 
 dry things which appeared strange to the spectators. Un- 
 derstanding that the show was to be repeated the next night, 
 and that the people were to meet about sunset, I felt an exer- 
 cise on that account. So I went to the public-house in the 
 evening, and told the man of the house that I had an inclina^ 
 
 p 
 
12i THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 tion to spend a part of the evening there ; with which he sig- 
 nified that he was content. Then sitting down hy the door, I 
 spoke to the people, in the fear of the Lord, as they came 
 together, concerning this show, and laboured to convince 
 them that their thus assembling to see these sleight of hand 
 tricks, and bestowing their money to support men who, in that 
 capacity, were of no use to the world, was contrary to the 
 nature of the Christian religion. One of the company endea- 
 voured to show, by arguments, the reasonableness of their pro- 
 ceedings herein ; but after considering some texts of scripture, 
 and calmly debating the matter, he gave up the point. After 
 spending about an hour among them, and feeling njy mind 
 easy, I departed. 
 
 25th of 9th mo., 1764. At our yearly meeting at Phila- 
 delphia, this day, John Smith of Marlborough, aged upwards 
 of eighty years, a faithful minister, though not eloquent, stood 
 up in our meeting of ministers and elders, and appearing to be 
 under a great exercise of spirit, informed friends in substance 
 as follows: "That he had been a member of our society 
 upwards of sixty years, and he well remembered that, in 
 those early times, friends were a plain lowly minded people ; 
 and that there was much tenderness and contrition in their 
 meetings. — That at twenty years from that time, the soci- 
 ety increasing in wealth, and in some degree conforming to 
 the fashions of the world, true humility was less apparent, 
 and their meetings in general were not so lively and edifying. 
 — That at the end of forty years, many of them were grown 
 very rich ; and many of the society made a specious appear- 
 ance in the world ; that wearing fine costly garments, and 
 using silver and other watches, became customary, with them, 
 their sons and their daughters; these marks of outward 
 wealth and greatness, appeared on some in our meetings of 
 ministers and elders ; and as such things became more pre- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 123 
 
 valent, so the powerful overshadowings of the Holy Ghost 
 were less manifest in the society. That there had been a 
 continued increase of such ways of life, even until the present 
 time, and that the weakness which hath now overspread the 
 society, and the barrenness manifest among us, is matter of 
 much sorrow." He then mentioned the uncertainty of his 
 attending these meetings in future, expecting his dissolu- 
 tion was near ; and having tenderly expressed his concern 
 for us, signified that he had seen in the true light, that the 
 Lord would bring back his people from these things, into 
 which they were thus degenerated ; but that his faithful ser- 
 vants must first go through great and heavy exercises.. 
 
 20th of 9th mo. The committee appointed by the yearly 
 meeting to visit the quarterly and monthly^meetings, gave an 
 account in writing of their proceedings in that service. They 
 signified, that in the course of the visit, they had been appre- 
 hensive that some persons holdiilg offices in government, in- 
 consistent with our principles, and others who kept slaves, 
 remaining active members in our meetings for discipline, had 
 been one means of weakness prevailing in some places. After 
 this report was read, an exercise revived in my mind, 
 which had attended me for several years, and inward cries to 
 the Lord were raised in me, that the fear of man might not 
 prevent me from doing what he required of me ; and standing 
 up, I spoke in substance as follows : " I have felt a tender- 
 ness in my mind towards persons, in two circumstances men- 
 tioned in that report : viz. towards such active members as 
 keep slaves, and such as hold offices in civil government ; and 
 I have desired that friends, in all their conduct, may be kind- 
 ly afFectioned one towards another. Many friends who keep 
 slaves, are under some exercise on that account ; and at times 
 think about trying them with freedom ; but find many things 
 in their way. The way of living, and the annual expenses of 
 
124 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 to set their slaves free, without changing their own way of 
 life. It has been my lot to be often abroad : and I have ob- 
 served in some places, at quarterly and yearly meetings, and 
 at some houses where travelling friends and their horses are 
 often entertained, that the yearly expense of individuals therein 
 is very considerable. And friends in some places crowding 
 much on persons in these circumstances for entertainment, 
 hath rested as a burden on my mind for some years past. I 
 now express it in the fear of the Lord, greatly desiring that 
 friends here present may duly consider it.'' 
 
 In the fall of this year, having hired a man to work, I 
 perceived in conversation with him that he had been a soldier 
 in the late war on this continent ; and he informed me in the 
 evening, in a narrative of his captivity among the Indians, 
 that he saw two of his fellow captives tortured to death in a 
 very cruel manner. This relation affected me with sadness, 
 under which I went to bed: and the next morning, soon 
 after I awoke, a fresh and living sense of Divine love over- 
 spread my mind ; in which I had a renewed prospect of the 
 nature of that wisdom from above, which leads to a right use 
 of all gifts, both spiritual and temporal, and gives content 
 therein. Under a feeling thereof, I wrote as follows : 
 
 " Hath He who gave me a being, attended with many 
 wants unknown to brute creatures, given me a capacity su- 
 perior to theirs, and shown me that a moderate application to 
 business is suitable to my present condition ; and that this, 
 attended with his blessing, may supply all my outward wants, 
 while they remain within the bounds He hath fixed ; and 
 while no imaginary wants proceeding from an evil spirit, 
 have any place in me ? Attend then, my soul ! to this pure 
 wisdom, as thy sure conductor through the manifold dangers 
 of this world. 
 
 " Doth pride lead to vanity ? Doth vanity form imaginary 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 125 
 
 wants ? Do these wants prompt men to exert their power, 
 in requiring more from others than they would be willing to 
 perform themselves, were the same required of them? Do 
 those proceedings beget hard thoughts ? Do hard thoughts 
 when ripe, become malice ? Does malice, when ripe, become 
 revengeful; and in the end inflict terrible pains on our 
 fellow-creatures, and spread desolations in the world? 
 
 " Do mankind walking in uprightness, delight in each other's 
 happiness ? And do those who are capable of this attainment, 
 by giving way to an evil spirit, employ their skill and strength 
 to afflict and destroy one another ? Eemember then, my 
 soul ! the quietude of those in whom Christ governs, and in 
 all thy proceedings feel after it. ■• 
 
 " Doth He condescend to bless thee with his presence? 
 To move and influence thee to action? To dwell and to walk 
 in thee? Eemember then thy 'station, as a being sacred to 
 God. Accept of the strength freely offered to thee ; and take 
 heed that no weakness, in conforming to unwise, expensive, 
 and hard-hearted customs, gendering to discord and strife, be 
 given way to. Doth He claim my body as his temple, and 
 graciously require that I may be sacred to Him? Oh ! that I 
 may prize this favour ; and that my whole life may be 
 conformable to this character ! Eemember, my soul ! that 
 the Prince of peace is thy Lord ; that He communicates his 
 unmixed wisdom to his family ; that they, living in per- 
 fect simplicity, may give no just cause of offence to any 
 creature, but that they may walk as He walked!" 
 
 Having felt an openness in my heart towards visiting fami- 
 lies in our own meeting, and especially in the town of Mount 
 Holly, the place of my abode, I mentioned it at our monthly 
 meeting in the fore-part of the winter of 1764 ; which being 
 agreed to, and several friends of our meeting being united in 
 the exercise, we -proceeded therein ; and through Divine favour 
 
1-26 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 we were helped in the work, so that it appeared to me as a fresh 
 reviving of godly care among friends. The latter part of the 
 same winter, I joined my friend William Jones, in a visit to 
 friends' families in Mansfield ; in which labour I had cause to 
 admire the goodness of the Lord towards us. 
 
 My mind being drawn towards friends along the sea-coast 
 from Cape May to near Squan ; and also to visit some people 
 in those parts, among whom there is no settled worship ; I 
 joined with my beloved friend Benjamin Jones, in a visit to 
 them ; having friends' unity therein. We set off the 24th of 
 10 mo. 1765, and had a prosperous and very satisfactory jour- 
 ney ,■: feeling at times, through the goodness of the Heavenly 
 Shepherd, the gospel to flow freely towards a poor people scat- 
 tered in these places. Soon after our return, I joined my 
 friends John Sleeper and Elizabeth Smith, in a visit to friends' 
 families at Burlington, there being at this time about fifty fa- 
 milies of our society in that city ; and we had cause humbly to 
 adore our Heavenly Father, who baptized us into a feeling of 
 the state of the people, and strengthened us to labour in true 
 gospel love among them. 
 
 Having had a concern, at times, for several years, to pay a 
 religious visit to friends on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, 
 and to travel on foot among them, that by so travelling I 
 might have a more lively feeling of the condition of the op- 
 pressed slaves, set an example of lowliness before the eyes of 
 their masters, and be more out of the way of temptation to 
 unprofitable converse ; and the time drawing near in which 
 I believed it my duty to lay. my concern before our monthly 
 meeting, I perceived, in conversation with my beloved friend 
 John Sleeper, that he also was under a similar concern, to 
 travel on foot in the form of a servant among them, as he 
 expressed it. This he told me before he knew aught of my 
 exercise. Being thus drawn the same way, we laid our exer- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 127 
 
 » 
 else and the nature of it before friends ; and obtaining certi- 
 ficates, we set off the 6th of 5th mo., 176G; and were at 
 meetings With friends at Wilmington, Duck Creek, Little 
 Greek and Motherkill. My heart was often tendered under 
 the Divine influence, and enlarged in love towards the people 
 among whom we travelled. 
 
 From Motherkill, we crossed the country about thirty-five 
 miles to Tuckahoe in Maryland, and had a meeting there, and 
 also at Marshy Creek. At the last three meetings there were 
 a considerable number of the followers of one Joseph Nichols, 
 a preacher; who I understand is not in outward fellowship 
 with any religious society; but professeth nearly the same 
 principles as those of our society, and often travels up and 
 down appointing meetings, which many people attend. I 
 heard of some who had been irreligious people, that were now 
 his followers, and were become sober, well-behaved men and 
 women. Some irregularities, I hear, have been among the 
 people at several of his meetings ; but from what I have per- 
 ceived, I believe the man and some of his followers, are 
 honestly disposed, but that skilful fathers are wanting among 
 them. 
 
 We then went to Choptank and Third Haven ; and thence 
 to Queen Anne's. The weather for some days past having 
 been hot and dry, and we having travelled pretty steadily, 
 and having had hard labour in meetings, I grew weakly ; at 
 which I was for a time discouraged ; but looking over our 
 journey, and considering how the Lord had^ supported our 
 minds and bodies, so that we had gone forward much faster 
 than I expected before we came out, I saw that I had been in 
 danger of too strongly desiring to get quickly through the 
 journey, and that the bodily weakness now attending me was 
 a kindness ; and then, in contrition of spirit, I became very 
 thankful to my gracious Father, for this manifestation of his 
 
128 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 love ; and in humble submission to his will, my trust in Him 
 was renewed. 
 
 In this part of our journey, I had many thoughts on the 
 different circumstances of friends who inhabit Pennsylvania 
 and Jersey, from those who dwell in Maryland, Virginia, and 
 Carolina. Pennsylvania and New Jersey were settled by 
 friends, who were convinced of our principles in England in 
 times of suffering : these coming over, bought lands of the 
 natives, and applied to husbandry in a peaceable way ; and 
 many of their children were taught to labour for their living. 
 Few of these, I believe, settled in any of the southern provin- 
 ces ; but by the faithful labours of travelling friends in early 
 times, there was considerable convincement among the inha- 
 bitants of these parts. I also remembered having read of the 
 warlike disposition of many of the first settlers in those 
 provinces, and of their numerous engagements with the 
 natives, in which much blood was shed, even in the infancy 
 of the colonies. Some of the people inhabiting those 
 places, being grounded in customs contrary to the pure 
 truth, were affected with the powerful preaching of the 
 Word of Life, and joined in fellowship with our society, 
 and in so doing they had a great work to go through. In 
 the history of the Eeformation from Popery, it is observable 
 that the progress was gradual from age to age. The upright- 
 ness of the first reformers, in attending to the light and un- 
 derstanding given to them, opened the way for sincere-hearted 
 people to proceed further afterwards ; and thus each one 
 truly fearing God, and labouring in the works of righteous- 
 • ness appointedfor him in his day, findeth acceptance with Him. 
 Through the darkness of the times, and the corruption of 
 manners and customs, some upright men may have had little 
 more for their day's work than to attend to the righteous 
 principle in their minds, as it related to their own conduct 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 1-2D 
 
 ia life, without pointing out to others the whole extent of 
 that, into which the same principle would lead succeeding 
 ages. Thus, for instance, among an imperious warlike people, 
 supported by oppressed slaves, some of these masters, I sap- 
 pose, are awakened to feel and to see their error ; and, 
 through sincere repentance, cease from oppression, and he- 
 come like fathers to their servants ; showing by their exam- 
 ple, a pattern of humility in living, and moderation in govern- 
 ing, for the instruction and admonition of their oppressing 
 neighbours; these, without carrying the reformation further, 
 have I believe found acceptance with the Lord. Such was 
 the beginning; and those who succeeded them, and who faith- 
 fully attended to the nature and spirit of the reformation, 
 have seen the necessity of proceeding forward ; and have 
 not only to instruct others, by their own example, in govern- 
 ing well, but have also to use means to prevent their succes- 
 sors from having so much power to oppress others. 
 
 Here I was renewedly confirmed in my mind, that the 
 Lord (whose tender mercies are over all his works, and whose 
 ear is open to the cries and groans of the oppressed) is gra- 
 ciously moving in the hearts of people, to draw them off 
 from the desire of vcealth, and to bring them into such an 
 humble, lowly way of living, that they may see their way 
 clearly to repair to the standard of true righteousness; and 
 may not only break the yoke of oppression, but may know 
 Him to be their strength and support in times of outward 
 affliction. 
 
 We crossed Chester River ; had a meeting there, and also 
 at Cecil and Sassafras. My bodily weakness, joined with a 
 heavy exercise of mind, was to me an humbling dispensation, 
 and I had a Very lively feeling of the state of the oppressed ; 
 yet I often thought/ that what I suffered was little, compared 
 with the sufferings of the blessed Jesus, and many of his faith- 
 
 r3 
 
130 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 ful followers ; and I may say with thankfulness, that I was 
 made content. From Sassafras we went pretty directly home, 
 where we found our families well. For several weeks after our 
 return, I had often to look over our journey ; and though to 
 me it appeared as a small service, and that some faithful 
 messengers will yet have more bitter cups to drink in those 
 southern provinces for Christ's sake, than we have had ; yet 
 I found peace in that I had been helped to walk in sincerity, 
 according to the understanding and strength given to me. 
 
 1 3th of 1 1 th mo. With the unity of friends at our monthly 
 meeting, and in company with my beloved friend Benjamin 
 Jones, I set out on a visit to friends in the upper part of this 
 province, having had drawings of love in my heart that way 
 for a considerable time. We travelled as far as Hardwick, 
 and I had inward peace in my labours of love among them. 
 Through the humbling dispensations of Divine Providence, 
 my mind hath been further brought into a feeling of the 
 difScuIties of friends and their servants south-westward ; and 
 being often engaged in spirit on their account, I believed it 
 «iy duty to walk into some parts of the western shore of 
 Maryland, on a religious visit. Having obtained a certificate 
 from friends of our monthly meeting, I took leave of my 
 family under the heart-tendering operation of truth ; and on 
 the 20th of 4th mo. 1767, rode to the ferry opposite to 
 Philadelphia, and thence walked to William Home's at Derby, 
 the same evening. Next day I pursued my journey alone, 
 and reached Concord week day meeting. 
 
 Discouragements and a weight of distress had, at times, 
 attended me in this lonesome walk, but through these afflict- 
 ions, I was mercifully preserved. Sitting down with friends, 
 my mind was turned towards the Lord, to wait for his holy 
 leadings ; and, in infinite love. He was pleased to soften my 
 heart into humble contrition, and renewedly to strengthen 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 131 
 
 me to go forward, so that to me it was a time of heavenly 
 refreshment in a silent meeting. The next day I came to 
 New Garden week day meeting, in which I sat in bowedness of 
 spirit ; and being baptized into a feeling of the state of some 
 present, the Lord gave us a heart-tendering season : to his 
 name be the praise. Passing on, I was at Nottingham monthly 
 meeting ; and at a meeting at Little Britain on first day ; in 
 the afternoon several friends came to the house where I lodged, 
 and we had a little afternoon meeting ; and through the 
 humbling power of truth, I had to admire the loving kind- 
 ness of the Lord manifested to us. 
 
 26th of 4th mo. I crossed the Susquehannah, and coming 
 among people in outward ease and greatness, supported chiefly 
 on the labour of slaves, my heart was much affected ; and in 
 awful retiredness, my mind was gathered inward to the Lord, 
 humbly desiring that, in true resignation, I might receive in- 
 struction from Him, respecting my duty among this people. 
 Though travelling on foot was wearisome to my body, yet it 
 was agreeable to the state of my mind. Being weakly, I 
 was covered with sorrow and heaviness, on account of the 
 prevailing spirit of this world, by which customs grievous and 
 oppressive are introduced on the one hand, and pride and 
 wantonness on the other. 
 
 In this lonely walk, and state of abasement and humilia- 
 tion, the state of the church in these parts was opened before 
 me ; and I may truly say with the prophet : " I was bowed 
 down at the hearing of it ; I was dismayed at the seeing of 
 it." Under this exercise, I attended the quarterly meeting 
 at Gunpowder ; and, in bowedness of spirit, I had to express 
 with much plainness, my feelings respecting friends living in 
 fulness, on the labours of the poor oppressed negroes ; and 
 that promise of the Most High was now revived: '* I will 
 gather all nations and tongues ; and they shall come and see 
 
133 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 ny glory." Here the sufferings of Christ, and his tasting 
 leath for every man, and the travels, sufferings, and martyr- 
 loms of the apostles, and primitive christians, in labouring 
 br the conversion of the gentiles, were livingly revived in me; 
 md according to the measure of strength afforded, I laboured 
 11 some tenderness of spirit, being deeply affected among 
 ;liem. The difference between the present treatment which 
 ;hese gentiles, the negroes, receive at our hands, and the 
 labours of the primitive christians for the conversion of the 
 jentiles, were pressed home, and the power of truth came 
 Dver us ; under a feeling of which, my mind was united 
 to a tender-hearted people in these parts. The meeting 
 concluded in a sense of God's goodness towards his humble, 
 dependent children. 
 
 The next day was a general meeting for worship, much 
 crowded, in which I was deeply engaged in inward cries to 
 the Lord for help, that I might stand wholly resigned, and 
 move only as He might be pleased to lead me. I was merci- 
 fully helped to labour honestly and fervently among them, in 
 which I found inward peace ; and the sincere were comforted. 
 From this place I turned towards Pipe Creek, and the Red 
 Lands, and had several meetings among friends in those 
 parts. My heart was often tenderly affected, under a sense 
 of the Lord's goodness in sanctifying my troubles and exer- 
 cises, turning them to my comfort, and I believe to the 
 benefit of many others ; for I may say with thankfulness, r 
 that in this visit, it appeared like a tendering visitation in 
 most places. 
 
 I passed on to the western quarterly meeting in Pennsyl- 
 vania. During the several days of this meeting, I was 
 mercifully preserved in an inward feeling after the mind of 
 truth, and my public labours tended to my humiliation, with 
 which I was content. After the quarterly meeting for worship 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 133 
 
 ended, I felt drawings to.go to the women's meeting for busi- 
 ness, which was very full : here the humility of Jesus Christ, 
 as a pattern for us to walk by, was livingly opened before 
 me ; and in treating on it my heart was enlarged, and it was 
 a baptizing time. I was afterwards at meetings at Concord, 
 Middletown, Providence, and Haddonfield, whence I returned 
 home, and found my family well. A sense of the Lord's 
 merciful preservation in this my journe)'', excites reverent 
 thankfulness to Him. 
 
 2nd of 9th mo. 1768. With the unity of friends, I set 
 off on a visit to friends in the upper part of Berks and Phi- 
 ladelphia counties ; was at eleven meetings in about two 
 weeks, and have renewed cause to bow in reverence before 
 the Lord, who, by the powerful extendings of his humbling 
 goodness, opened my way among friends, and I trust made 
 the meetings profitable to us. The following winter I joined 
 some friends in a family • visit to some part of our meet- 
 ing, in which exercise, the pure influence of Divine love, 
 made our visits reviving. 
 
 5th of 5th mo. 1768. I left home under the humbling 
 hand of the Lord, with a certificate to visit some meetings in 
 Maryland ; and to proceed without a horse seemed clearest 
 to me. I was at the quarterly meetings at Philadelphia and 
 Concord ; whence I proceeded to Chester Eiver; and cross- 
 ing the bay, was at the yearly meeting at West River ; I then 
 returned to Chester River, and taking a few meetings in my 
 way, proceeded home. It was a journey of much inward wait- 
 ing ; and as my eye was to the Lord, way was several times 
 opened to my humbling admiration, when things appeared 
 very difficult. On my return, I felt a very comfortable relief 
 of mind ; having, through Divine help, laboured in much 
 plainness, both with friends selected, and in the more public 
 meetings; so that I trust the pure witness in many minds 
 was reached. 
 
134 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 nth. of 6th. mo. 1769. There have been sundry cases 
 of late years, within the limit^ of our monthly meeting, re- 
 specting the exercising of pure righteousness towards the 
 negroes, in which I have lived under a labour of heart, that 
 equity might be steadily preserved. On this accomit I have 
 had some close exercises among friends, in which, I may 
 thankfully say, I find peace. And as my meditations have 
 been on universal love, my own conduct in time past became 
 of late very grievous to me. As persons setting negroes free 
 in our province, are bound by law to maintain them, in case 
 they have need of relief; some in the time of my youth, who 
 scrupled to keep slaves for term of life, were wont to detain 
 their young negroes in their service without wages, till they 
 were thirty years of age. With this custom I so far agreed, 
 that being joined with another friend, in executing the will of 
 a deceased friend, I once sold anegro lad till he might attain 
 the age of thirty years, and applied the money to the use of 
 the estate. 
 
 With abasement of heart I may now say, that sometimes 
 as I have sat in a meeting, with my heart exercised towards 
 that awful Being, who respecteth not persons nor colours, and 
 have thought upon this lad, I have felt that all was not clear 
 in my mind respecting him ; and as I have attended to this 
 exercise, and fervently sought the Lord, it hath appeared to 
 me that I should make some restitution, but in what way I 
 saw not till lately : when being under some concern that I 
 might be resigned to go on a visit to some part of the West 
 Indies ; and under close engagement of spirit seeking to the 
 Lord for counsel herein, the aforesaid transaction came heavily 
 upon me, and my mind, for a time, was covered with darkness 
 and sorrow. Under this sore affliction, my heart was softened 
 to receive instruction : and I now first perceived, that as I 
 had been one of the two executors, who had sold this lad for 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 135 
 
 nine years longer than is common for our own children to 
 serve, so I should now offer part of my substance to" redeem 
 the last half of the nine years ; but as the time was not yet 
 come, I executed a bond, binding myself and my executors, to 
 pay to the man to whom he was sold, what to candid men 
 might appear equitable, for the last four and a half years of 
 his time, in case the said youth should be living, and in a con- 
 dition likely to provide comfortably for himself. 
 
 9th of 10th mo. My heart hath often been deeply afflict- 
 ed under a feeling, that the standard of pure righteousness 
 is not lifted up to the people by us, as a society, in that clear- 
 ness which it might have been, had we been as faithful as we 
 ought to be to the teachings of Christ. And as my mind 
 hath been inward to the Lord, the purity of Christ's govern- 
 ment hath been opened to my understanding ; and I have 
 believed, in the opening of universal love, that where a people 
 who are convinced of the truth of the inward teachings of 
 Christ, are active in putting laws in execution, which are 
 not coTisistent with pure wisdom, it hath a necessary tenden- 
 cy to bring dimness over their minds. My heart having been 
 thus exercised for several years, with a tender sympathy 
 towards my fellow members, I have within a few months past 
 expressed my concern on this subject, in several meetings 
 for discipline. 
 
13G THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 CHAP. X. 
 
 1769—1770. 
 
 Bodily indisposition. — Exercise of his mind for the good of the 
 people in the West Indies. — Communicates to friends his concern to 
 visit some of those islands. — Preparations to embark. — Considerations 
 on the trade to the West Indies. — Release from his concern and return 
 home. — Religious engagements. — Sickness and exercise of his mind 
 therein. 
 
 l'2th of 3rd mo. 1769. Having for some years past dieted 
 myself on account of a lump gathering on my nose, under 
 which I grew weak in body, and wa^ not of albilit)'' to travel 
 by land as heretofore ; I was at times favoured to look with 
 awfulness towards the Lord, before whom are all my ways, 
 who alone hath the power of life and death ; and to feel 
 thankfulness raised in me for this his fatherly chastisement, 
 believing, that if I was truly humbled under it, all would work 
 for good. While under this bodily weakness, my mind was at 
 times exercised for my fellow-creatures in the West Indies, 
 and I grew jealous over myself, lest the disagreeableness of 
 the prospect should hinder me from obediently attending 
 thereto ; for though I knew not that the Lord required me to 
 go there, yet I believed that resignation was now called for in 
 that respect. Feeling a danger of not being wholly devoted 
 to him, I was frequently engaged to watch unto prayer, that 
 I might be preserved ; and upwards of a year having passed, 
 as I one day walked in a solitary wood, my mind being cover- 
 ed with awfulness, cries were raised in me to my merciful Fa- 
 ther, that He would graciously keep me in faithfulness ; and 
 it then settled on my mind, as a duty, to open my condition 
 to friends at our monthly meeting ; which I did soon after as 
 follows : 
 
 " An exercise hath attended me for some time past, and of 
 
JOHN AVOOLMAN. 137 
 
 late hath been more weighty upon me, which is, that I beheve 
 it is required of me to be resigned to go on a visit to 
 some parts of the West Indies." In the quarterly and general 
 spring meeting, I found no clearness to express any thing 
 further, than that I believed resignation herein was required 
 of me. Having obtained certificates from all the said 
 meetings, I felt like a sojourner at my outward habitation, 
 and kept free from worldly encumbrances ; and I was often 
 bowed in spirit before the Lord, with inward breathings 
 to Him, that I might be rightly directed. I may here 
 note, that the circumstance before related of my having, 
 when young, joined with another executor in selling a negro 
 lad till he might attain the age of thirty years, was now the 
 cause of much sorrow to me ; and after having settled matters 
 relating to this youth, I provided a sea-store and bed, and 
 things for the voyage. Hearing of a vessel likely to sail from 
 Philadelphia for Barbadoes, I spake with one of the owners 
 at Burlington, and soon after went to Philadelphia on purpose 
 to speak to him again. He told me there was a friend in 
 town who was part owner of the said vessel. I felt no incli- 
 nation to speak with the latter, but returned home. A while 
 after I took leave of my family ; and going to Philadelphia, 
 had some weighty conversation with the first-mentioned own- 
 er, and showed him a writing, as follows : 
 
 "• On the 25th of 11th mo. 1769, as an exercise, with res- 
 pect to a visit to Barbadoes, hath been weighty on my mind, 
 I may express some of the trials which have attended me ; 
 under which I have at times rejoiced, that I have felt my own 
 self-will subjected. 
 
 " Some years ago I retailed rum, sugar, and molasses, the 
 fruits of the labour of slaves ; but had not then much con- 
 cern about them, save only that the rum might be used in 
 moderation ; nor was this concern so weightily attended to as 
 
138 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 I now believe it ought to have been. Having of late years 
 been further informed respecting the oppressions too general- 
 ly exercised in these islands, and thinking often on the dan- 
 gers there are in connexions of interest and fellowship with 
 the works of darkness, Ephes. v. 11. ; I have felt an increas- 
 ing concern to be wholly given up to the leadings of the Holy 
 Spirit ; and it hath seemed right that my small gain from this 
 branch of trade, should be applied in promoting righteousness 
 on the earth. This was the first motion towards a visit to 
 Barbadoes. I believed also that part of my outward sub- 
 stance should be applied in paying my passage, if I went, and 
 providing things in a lowly way for my subsistence ; but when 
 the time drew near, in which I believed it required of me to 
 be in readiness, a difficulty arose which hath been a continual 
 trial for some months past ; under which I have, with abase- 
 ment of mind from day to day, sought the Lord for instruc- 
 tion, having often had a feeling of the condition of one for- 
 merly, who bewailed himself because the Lord hid his face 
 from him. During these exercises my heart hath often been 
 contrite, and I have had a tender feeling of the temptations of 
 my fellow-creatures, labouring under expensive customs not 
 agreeable to the simplicity that " there is in Christ," 2 Cor. ii. 
 3. and sometimes in the renewings of gospel love, I have been 
 iielped to minister to others. 
 
 " That which hath so closely engaged my mind, in seek- 
 ing to the Lord for instruction, is, whether, after the full 
 information I have had of the oppression which the slaves lie 
 under, who raise the West India produce, which I have gained 
 by reading a caution and warning to Great Britain and her 
 coloniesj written by Anthony Benezet, it is right for me to 
 take a passage in a vessel, employed in the West India trade. 
 
 " To trade freely with oppressors, without labouring to 
 dissuade them from such unkind treatment, and to seek for 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 139 
 
 gain by such traffic, tends, I believe, to make them more easy 
 respecting their conduct, than they would be, if the cause of 
 imiversal righteousness was humbly and firmly attended to, by 
 those in general with whom they have commerce ; and that 
 complaint of the Lord by his prophet, " They have strength- 
 ened the hands of the wicked," hath very often revived in my 
 mind. I may here add some circumstances which occurred 
 to me before I had any prospect of a visit there. David 
 longed for some water in a well beyond an army of Philistines, 
 who were at war with Israel ; and some of his men, to please 
 him, ventured their lives in passing through this army, and 
 brought that water. 
 
 " It doth not appear that the Israelites were then scarce of 
 water, but rather that David gave way to delicacy of taste ; 
 and having reflected on the danger to which these men had 
 been exposed, he considered this water as their blood, and his 
 ^Mt smote him that he could not drink it, but he poured it 
 oat to the Lord. The oppression of the slaves, which I have 
 seen in several journeys southward on this continent, and the 
 report of their treatment in the West Indies, have deeply af- 
 fected me ; and a care to live in the spirit of peace, and min- 
 ister no just cause of offence to my fellow-creatures, having 
 from time to time livingly revived in my mind ; I have for 
 some years past, declined to gratify my palate with those 
 sugars. 
 
 " I do not censure my brethren in these things ; but I be- 
 lieve the Father of Mercies, to whom all mankind by creation 
 are equally related, hath heard the groans of this oppressed 
 people, and that he is preparing some to have a tender feeling 
 of their condition. Trading in, or the frequent use of any 
 produce known to be raised by the labour of those who are 
 under such lamentable oppression, hath appeared to be a sub- 
 ject which may hereafter require the more serious considera- 
 tion of the humble followers of Christ, the Prince of peace. 
 
UO THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 " After'long and mournful exercise, 1 am now free to men- 
 tion how tilings have opened in my mind, with desires that if 
 it may please the Lord further to open his wUl to any of his 
 children iu this matter, they may faithfully follow Him in 
 such further manifestation. 
 
 "The number of those who decline the use of West India 
 produce, on account of the hard usage of the slaves who raise 
 it, appears small, even among people truly pious ; and the la- 
 bours in Christian love on that subject, of those who do, are 
 not very extensive. Were the trade from this continent to the 
 West Indies to be stopped at once, I believe many there would 
 suffer for want of bread. Did we, on this continent, and the 
 inhabitants of the West Indies, generally dwell in pure right- 
 eousness, I believe a small trade between us might be right. 
 Under these considerations, when the thoughts of wholly de- 
 clining the use of trading vessels, and of trying to hire a ves- 
 sel to go under ballast, have arisen in my mind, I have belie^^ 
 that the labours in gospel love, hitherto bestowed in the cai^ 
 of universal righteousness, are not arrived at that height. If 
 the trade to the West Indies were no more than was consistent 
 with pure wisdom, I believe the passage money would, for 
 good reasons, be higher than it is now ; and therefore, under 
 deep exercise of mind, I have believed that I should not take 
 advantage of this great trade and small passage money ; butf 
 as a testimony in favour of less trading, should pay more than 
 is common for others to pay, if I go at this time." 
 
 The first mentioned owner having read the paper, went 
 with me to the other owner ; who also read over the paper, 
 and we had some solid conversation, under which I felt my- 
 self bowed in reverence before the Most High. At length one 
 of them asked me if I would go and see the vessel. But not 
 having clearness in my mind to go, I went to my lodging, and 
 retired in private under great exercise of mind ; and my tears 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 141 
 
 were poured out before the Lord, with inward cries that He 
 would graciously help me ttnder these trials. I believe my 
 mind was resigned, but I did not feel clearness to proceed; and 
 my own weakness, and the necessity of Divine instruction, 
 were impressed upon me. 
 
 I was for a time as one who knew not what to do, and was 
 tossed as in a tempest ; imder which affliction, the doctrine of 
 Christ, " Take no thought for the morrow," arose livingly be- 
 fore me, and I was favoured to get into a good degree of still- 
 ness. Having been near two days in town, I believed my 
 obedience to my heavenly Father consisted in returning home- 
 ward ; I therefore went over among friends on the Jersey 
 shore, and tarried till the morning on. which the vessel was 
 appointed to sail. As I lay in bed the latter part of that night, 
 my mind was comforted ; and I felt what I esteemed a fresh 
 confirmation, that it was the Lord's will that I should pass 
 through some further exercises near home : so I went thither, 
 and still felt like a sojourner with my family. In the fresh 
 spring of pure love, I had some labours in a private way 
 among friends on a subject relating to truth's testimony, un- 
 der which I had frequently been exercised in heart for some 
 years. I remember, as I walked on the road under this exer- 
 cise, that passage in Ezekiel came fresh upon me : " Whither- 
 soever their faces were turned, thither they went." And I 
 was graciously helped to discharge my duty, in the fear and 
 dread of the Almighty. 
 
 Lithe courseofa few weeks, it pleased the Lord to visit me with 
 a pleurisy ; and after I had lain a few days, and felt the disor- 
 der very grievous, I was Oioughtful how it might end. I had 
 of late, through various exercises, been much weaned from the 
 pleasant things of this life ; and I now thought, if it were the 
 Lord's will to put an end to my labours, and graciously to re- 
 ceive me into the arms of his mercy, death would be accept- 
 
142 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 able to me ; but if it were his will further to refine me under 
 affliction, and to make me in any 'degree useful in his church, I 
 desired not to die. I may with thankfulness say, that in this 
 case I felt resignedness wrought in me, and had no inclination 
 to send for a doctor ; believing, if it were the Lord's will 
 through outward means to raise me up, some sympathizing 
 friends would be sent to minister to me ; which accordingly 
 was the case. But though I was carefully attended, yet the 
 disorder was at times so heavy, that I had no expectation of 
 recovery. One night in particular, my bodily distress was 
 great ; my feet grew cold, and the cold increased up my legs 
 towards' my body ; at that time I had no inclination to ask my 
 nurse to apply any thing warm to my feet, expecting my end 
 was near. After I had lain near ten hours in this condition, I 
 closed my eyes, thinking whether I might now^ be delivered 
 out of the body ; but, in these awful moments, my mind was 
 livingly opened to behold the church ; and strong engagements 
 were begotten in me, for the everlasting well-being of my fel- 
 low-creatures. I felt in the spring of pure love, that I might 
 remain some time longer in the body, to fill up according to 
 my measure, that which remains of the afflictions of Christ, 
 and to labour for the good of the church ; after which I re- 
 quested my nurse to apply warmth to my feet, and I revived. 
 The next night, feeling a weighty exercise of spirit, and hav- 
 ing a solid friend sitting up with me, I requested him to write 
 what I said, which he did as follows : 
 
 " Fourth day of the first month, 1770, about five in the 
 morning. — I have seen in the Light of the Lord, that the day 
 is approaching, when the man that is most wise in human 
 policy shall be the greatest fool ; and the arm that is mighty 
 to support injustice shall be broken to pieces ; the enemies of 
 righteousness shall make a terrible rattle, and shall mightily 
 torment one another : for He that i.s omninotpnt is ricinn- nn tn 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 143 
 
 judgment, and will plead the cause of the oppressed : and He 
 commanded me to open the vision." 
 
 Near a week after this, feeling my mind livingly opened, I 
 sent for a neighbour, who, at my request, wrote as follows : 
 
 " The place of prayer is a precious habitation ; for I now 
 saw that the prayers of the saints were precious incense : 
 and a trumpet was given to rae, that I might sound forth this 
 language ; that the children might hear it, and be invited to- 
 gether to this precious habitation, where the prayers of the 
 saints, as precious incense, arise before the throne of God and 
 the Lamb. — I saw this habitation to be safe ; — to be inwardly 
 quiet when there were great stirrings and commotions in the 
 world. 
 
 "Prayer, at this day, in pure resignation, is a precious 
 place: the trumpet is sounded ;. the call goes forth to the 
 church, that she gather to the place of pure inward prayer ; 
 and her habitation is safe.'' 
 
 CHAP. XI. 
 1772. 
 
 Emharlis at Chester, with Samuel Enilcn, iv « ship bound for 
 London. — Exercise of mind respecting the hardships of the sailors. 
 — Considerations on the dangers of training youth to a seafaring 
 life. — Thoughts during a storm at sea. — Arrival in London. 
 
 Having been some time under a religious concern to 
 prepare for crossing the seas, in order to visit friends in the 
 northern parts of England, and more particularly in York- 
 shire ; after consideration, I thought it expedient to inform 
 friends of it, at our monthly meeting at Burhngton, who, 
 having unity with me therein, gave me a certificate. I after- 
 wards communicated the same to our quarterly meeting, and 
 
144 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 they likewise certified their concurrence. Some time after, 
 at the general spring meeting of ministers and elders, I 
 thought it my duty to acquaint them with the religious exer- 
 cise which attended my mind ; and they likewise signified 
 their unity therewith by a certificate, dated the 24th of 3rd 
 mo. 1772, directed to friends in Great Britain. 
 
 In the 4th month following, I thought the time was come 
 for me to make some inquiry for a suitable conveyance ; and 
 as my concern was principally towards the northern parts of 
 England, it seemed most proper to go in a vessel bound to 
 Liverpool or Whitehaven. While I was at Philadelphia, de- 
 liberating on this subject, I was informed that my beloved 
 friend Samuel Emlen junior, intended to go to London, and 
 had taken a passage for himself in the cabin of the ship called 
 the Mary and Elizabeth, of which James Sparks was niaster, 
 and John Head of the city of Philadelphia, one of the owners; 
 and feeling a draught in my mind towards the steerage of the 
 same ship, I went first and opened to Samuel the feeling I 
 had concerning it. 
 
 My beloved friend wept when I spake to him, and ap- 
 peared glad that I had thoughts of going in the vessel with 
 him, though my prospect was towards the steerage ; and he 
 offering to go with me, we went on board, first into the cabin, 
 a commodious room, and then into the steerage ; where we sat 
 down on a chest, the sailors being busy about us ; the owner 
 of the ship also came and sat down with us. My mind was 
 turned towards Christ, the heavenly counsellor ; and feeling 
 at this time my own will subjected, my heart was contrite 
 before him. A motion was made by the owner to go and sit 
 in the cabin, as a place more retired ; but I felt easy to leave 
 the ship, and making no agreement as to a passage in her ; 
 told the owner, if I took a passage in the ship, I believed 
 it would be in the steerage ; but did not say much as to 
 my exercise in that case. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 146 
 
 After I went to my lodgings, and the case was a little 
 known in town, a friend laid before me the great inconveni- 
 ence attenfling a passage in the steerage ; which for a time 
 appeared very discouraging to me. 
 
 I soon after went to bed, and my mmd was under a deep 
 exercise before the Lord, whole helping hand was manifested 
 to me as I slept that night, and his love strengthened my 
 heart. In the morning, I went with two friends on board the 
 vessel again; and after a short time spent therein, I went 
 with Samuel Emlen to the house of the owner, to whom, in 
 the hearing of Samuel only, I opened my exercise in relation 
 •to a scruple I felt with regard to a passage in the cabin, in 
 substance as follows : 
 
 "That on the outside of that part of the ship where the 
 cabin was, I observed sundry sorts of carved work and 
 imagery ; that in the cabin I observed some superfluity of 
 workmanship of several sorts ; and that according to the ways 
 of men's reckoning, the sum of money to be paid for a passage 
 in that apartment, has some relation to the expense orfurnish- 
 ing it, to please the minds of such as give way to a conformity 
 to this world ; and that in this, as in other cases, the monies 
 received from the passengers are calculated to defray the cost 
 of these superfluities, as well as the other expenses of their 
 passage. I therefore felt a scruple with regard to paying 
 my money to be applied to such purposes." 
 
 As my mind was now opened, I told the owner that I had, 
 at several times in my travels, seen great oppressions on this 
 continent, at which my heart had been much affected, and 
 brought into a feeling of the state of the sufferers ; and having 
 many times been engaged in the fear and love of God, to 
 labour with those under whom the oppressed have been borne 
 down and afflicted, I have often perceived, that with a view 
 to get riches, and to provide estates for children, that ' they 
 
140 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 may live conformably to the customs and honours of this 
 world, many are entangled in the spirit of oppression; and 
 the exercise of my soul had been such, that I coul'd not find 
 peace in joining in any thing, which I saw was against that 
 wisdom which is pure. 
 
 After this I agreed for a passage in the steerage ; and hear- 
 ing that Joseph White had a desire to see me, I went to his 
 house, and next day home, where I tarried two nights. Early 
 the next morning, I parted with my family, under a sense of 
 -the humbling hand of God upon me, and going to Philadel- 
 phia, had an opportunity with several of my beloved friends, 
 who appeared to be concerned for me, on account of the un- > 
 pleasant situation of that part of the vessel in which I was 
 likely to lodge. In these opportunities my mind, through 
 the mercies of the Lord, was kept low, in an inward waiting 
 for his help ; and friends having expressed their desire that I 
 might have a more convenient place than the steerage, did 
 not urge it, but appeared disposed to leave me to the Lord. 
 
 Having staid two nights at Philadelphia, I went the next 
 day to Derby monthly meeting, where through the strength 
 of Divine love, my heart was enlarged towards the youth there 
 present, under which I was helped to labour in some tender- 
 ness of spirit. I lodged al William Horn's, and afterwards 
 went to Chester, where 1 met with Samuel Emlen, and we went 
 on board, 1st of 5th mo. 1772. As I sat alone on the deck, 
 I felt a satisfactory evidence that my proceedings were not in 
 my own will, but under the power of the cross of Christ. 
 
 7th of 5 mo. We have had rough weather mostly since 
 1 came on board, and the passengers, James Reynolds, John 
 Till Adams, Sarah Logan and her hired maid, and John Bis- 
 jihain, all sea-sick at times ; from which sickness, through 
 the tender mercies of my heavenly Father, I have been pre- 
 served, my afflictions now being of anolher kind. There ap- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 147 
 
 peared an openness in the minds of the master of the ship and 
 in the cabin passengers towards me ; we are often together 
 on the deck, and sometimes in the cabin. My mind, through 
 the merciful help of the Lord, hath been preserved in a good 
 degree watchful and quiet; for which I have great cause to 
 be thankful. 
 
 ife my lodging in the steerage, now near a week, hath 
 afforded me sundry opportunities of seeing, hearing, and 
 feeling, with respect to the life and spirit of many poor sailors ; 
 an exercise of soul hath attended me, in regard to placing 
 out children and youth, where they may be likely to be exam- 
 pled and instructed in the pure fear of the Lord. Being much 
 among the seamen, I have, from a motion of love, taken sun- 
 dry opportunities with one of them at a time, and have 
 in free conversation, laboured to turn theil: minds towards 
 the fear of the Lord. This day we had a meeting in the cabin, 
 where my heart was contrite under a feeling of Divine love. 
 
 I believe a communication with different parts of the 
 world by sea, is at times consistent with the will of our hea- 
 venly Father; and to educate some youth in the practice of 
 sailing, I believe maybe right; but how lamentable is the 
 present corruption of the world ! How impure are the chan- 
 nels through which trade is conducted! How great is the 
 danger to which poor lads are exposed, when plaa^d on ship- 
 board to learn the art of sailing ! Five lads, training up for 
 the seas were on board this ship ; two of thdin were brought 
 up in our society, and the other, by name James Naylor, 
 is a member, to whose father James Naylor, mentioned in 
 Sewel's history, appears to have been micle. I often fedlfe, 
 tenderness of heart towards these poor lads; and at #mei 
 look at them as though they were my children according to 
 the flesh. , 
 
 Oh that all may take' heed and beware of cavetonsmesa i 
 
14S THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 O that all may learn of Christ, who was meek and low of 
 heart ! Then, in faithfully following Him, he will teach us to 
 be content with food and raiment, without respect to the 
 customs or honours of this world. Men thus redeemed, will 
 feel a tender concern for their fellow-creatures, and a desire 
 that those in the lowest stations may be assisted and en- 
 couraged ; and where owners of ships attain to the perfedlpaw 
 of liberty, and are doers of the Word, these will be blessed 
 in their deeds. 
 
 A ship at sea commonly sails all night, and the seamen 
 take their watches four hours at a time. Rising to work in 
 the night, is not commonly pleasant in any case ; but in dark 
 rainy nights it is very disagreeable, even though each man 
 were furnished with all conveniences. If after having been 
 on deck several hours in the night, they come down into the 
 steerage soaking wet, and are so closely stowed that proper con- 
 venience for change of garments is not easily come at, but for 
 want of proper room their wet garments are thrown in heaps, 
 and sometimes, through much crowding, are trodden under 
 foot, in going to their lodgings and getting out of them, and 
 it is difficult, at times, for each to find his own ; here are trials 
 on the poor sailors. 
 
 Now as I have been with them in my lodge, my heart hath' 
 often yearned for them, and tender desires have been raised 
 in me, that all owners and masters of vessels may dwell in the 
 love of God, an^|therein act uprightly ; and by seeking less 
 for gain, and looKmg carefully to their ways, they may ear- 
 nestly labour to remove all cause of provocation from the 
 ^•|r seamen, so that they may neither fret nor use excess of 
 po^ drink ; for indeed the poor creatures, in the wet 
 and cold, seem to apply at times to strong drink, to supply the 
 want of other convenience. Great reformation is wanting in 
 tlie world, aad the necessity of it, among those who do busi- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 149 
 
 ness on great waters, hath at this time been abundantly 
 opened before me. 
 
 8th of 5th mo. This morning the clouds gathered, the 
 wind blew strong from the south-east, and before noon so 
 increased, that sailing appeared dangerous. The seamen 
 then bound up some of their sails, and took down others, 
 and the storm increasing, they put the dead' lights, so 
 called, into the cabin-windows, and lighted a lamp as at 
 night. The wind now blew vehemently, and the sea wrought 
 to that degree, that an awful seriousness prevailed in the cabin, 
 in which I spent I believe, about seventeen hours ; for the 
 cabin passengers had given me frequent invitations, and I 
 thought the poor wet toiling seamen, had need of all the room 
 in the crowded steerage. They now ceased from sailing, 
 and put the vessel in the posture called lying to. 
 
 My mind during this tempest, through the gracious as- 
 sistance of the Lord, was preserved in a good degree of resig- 
 nation ; and at times I expressed a few words in his love to 
 mj' ship-mates, in regard to the all-sufficiency of Him who 
 formed the great deep, and whose care is so extensive, that a 
 sparrow falls not without his notice ; and thus, in a tender 
 frame of mind, I spoke to them of the necessity of our 
 yielding, in true obedience, to the instructions of our heavenly 
 Father, who sometimes through adversities intendeth our 
 refinement. 
 
 About eleven at night I went out on the deck. The sea 
 wrought exceedingly, and the high foaming waves round 
 about, had in some sort the appearance of lire, but did not 
 give much, if any light. The sailor at the helm said he lately 
 saw a corposant at the head of the mast. I observed that the 
 master of the ship ordered the carpenter to keep on the deck: 
 and though he said little, I apprehended his care was, that the 
 carpenter with his axe might be in readiness in case of any 
 
150 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 extremity. Soon after this the vehemency of the wind 
 abated, and before morning they again put the ship under 
 sail. 
 
 10th of 5 mo. It being the first day of the week, and fine 
 weather, we had a meeting in the cabin, at which most of the 
 seamen were present ; this meeting was to me a strengthening 
 time. 13th. As I continue to lodge in the steerage, I feel 
 an openness this morning to express something further of the 
 state of my mind, in respect to poor lads bound apprentice to 
 learn the art of sailing. As I believe sailing is of use in the 
 world, a labour of soul attends me, that the pure counsel of 
 truth m*ay be humbly waited for in this case, by .all concerned 
 in the business of the seas. A pious father, whose mind is 
 exercised for the everlasting welfare of his child, may not, 
 with a peaceable mind, place him out to an eitiployment 
 among a people, whose common course of life is manifestly 
 corrupt and profane. Great is the present defect among sea- 
 faring men, in regard to virtue and piety ; and by reason of an 
 abundant traffic, and many ships being used for war, so many 
 people are employed on the sea, that the subject of placing 
 lads to this employment appears very weighty. 
 
 When I remember the saying- of the Most High through 
 his prophet, " This people have I formed for myself; they 
 shall show forth my praise :" and think of placing children 
 among such to learn the practice of sailing, the consistency of 
 it with a pious education, seems to me like that mentioned by 
 the prophet, " TJaere is no answer from God." 
 
 Profane examples are very corrupting, and very forcible. 
 And as my mind day after day, and night after night, hath 
 been affected with a sympathizing tenderness towards poor 
 children, who are put to the employment of sailors, I ha:ve 
 sometimes had weighty conversation with the sailors in the 
 
 _. ...1__ *1„ ilX-l !._ 3 T _ 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 151 
 
 SO the longei- 1 was with them. They mostly appeared to take 
 kindly what I said to them ; but their minds were so 
 deeply impressed with the almost universal depravity among 
 sailors, that the poor creatures in their answers to me, have 
 revived in my remembrance that of the degenerate Jews a 
 little before the captivity, as repeated by Jeremiah the pro- 
 phet, "There is no hope." 
 
 Now under this exercise, a sense of the desire of outward 
 gain prevailing among us, felt grievous; and a strong call to 
 the professed followers of Christ was raised in me, that all 
 may take heed, lest through loving this present world, they be 
 found in a continued neglect of duty, with respect to a faithful 
 labour for reformation. 
 
 To silence every motion proceeding from the love of money, 
 and humbly to wait upon God to know his will concerning us, 
 have appeared necessary. He alone is able to strengthen us 
 to dig deep, to remove all which lies between us and the safe 
 foundation, and so to direct us in our outward employments, 
 that pure universal love may shine forth in our proceedings. 
 Desires arising from the spirit of truth, are pure desires ; and 
 when a mind divinely opened towards a young generation, is 
 made sensible of corrupting examples, powerfully working, 
 and extensively spreading among them, how moving is the 
 prospect. In a world of dangers and difficulties, like a deso- 
 late thorny wilderness, how precious, ho,w comfortable, how 
 safe, are the leadings of Christ the good shepherd, who said, 
 " I know my sheep, and am known of mine. " 
 
 16th of 6 mo. Wind for several days past often high, 
 what the sailors call squally, with a rough sea, and frequent 
 rains. This last night has been a very trying one to the poor 
 seamen ; the water most part of the night running over the 
 main deck, and sometimes breaking waves came on the 
 quarter deck. The latter part of the night, as I lay in bed, 
 
lf)2 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 my mind was humbled under the power of Divine love ; and 
 resignedness to the great Creator of the earth and the seas, 
 was renewedly wrought in me, and his fatherly care over his 
 children felt precious to my soul. I was now desirous to 
 embrace every opportunity of being inwardly acquainted with 
 the hardships and difficulties of my fellow-creatures, and to 
 labour in his love for the spreading of pure righteousness on 
 the earth. Opportunities were frequent of hearing conversa- 
 tion among the sailors, Tespecting the voyages to Africa, and 
 the manner of bringing the deeply oppressed slaves into our 
 Islands. They are frequently brought on board the vessels, 
 in chains and fetters, with hearts loaded with grief, under the 
 apprehension of miserable slavery ; so that my mind was 
 frequently engaged to meditate on these things. 
 
 17th of 5 mo. and 1st of the week. We had a meeting in 
 the cabin, to which the seamen generally came. My spirit 
 was contrite before the Lord, whose love at this time affected 
 my heart. In the afternoon I felt a tender s)Tnpathy of soul 
 with my poor wife and family left behind ; in which state my 
 heart was enlarged in desires, that they may walk in that 
 humble obedience, wherein the everlasting Father may be 
 their guide and support through all their difficulties in this 
 world;, and a sense of that gracious assistance, through which 
 my mind hath been strengthened to take up the cross and 
 leave them, to travel in the love of truth, hath begotten thank- 
 fulness in my heart to our great Helper. 
 
 24th of 5 mo. A clear pleasant morning. As I sat on deck, 
 I felt a reviving in my nature, which had been weakened 
 through much rainy weather and high winds, and being shut 
 up in a close unhealthy air. Several nights of late I have felt 
 my breathing difficult ; and a little after the rising of the se- 
 cond watch, which is about midnight, I have got up, and stood 
 near an hour, with my face near the hatchway, to get the fresh 
 
JOHN WOOLMAW. 153 
 
 air at the small vacancy under the hatch-door, which is com- 
 monly shut down, partly to keep out rain, and sometimes to 
 keep the breaking waves from dashing into the steerage. I 
 may, with thankfulness to the Father of Mercies acknowledge 
 that, in my present weak state, my mind hath been supported 
 to bear this affliction with patience ; and I have looked at the 
 present dispensation as a kindness from the great Father of 
 mankind, who, in this my floating pilgrimage, is in some de- 
 gree bringing me to feel what many thousan ds of my fellow- 
 creatures often suffer in a greater degree. 
 
 My appetite failing, the trial hath been the heavier ; and I 
 have felt tender breathings in my soul after God, the fountain 
 of comfort, whose inward help hath supplied, at times, the 
 want of outward convenience : and strong desires have at- 
 tended me, that his family, who are acquainted with the 
 moviugs of his Holy Spirit, may be so redeemed from the 
 love of money, and from that spirit in which men seek honour 
 one of another, that in all business, by sea or land, they may 
 constantly keep in view the coming of his kingdom on earth, 
 as it is in heaven ; and, by faithfully following tliis safe guide, 
 may show forth examples tending to lead out of that under 
 which the creation groans. This day we had a meeting in 
 the cabin, in which I was favoured in some degree to expe- 
 rience the fulfilling of that saying of the propliet — "The 
 Lord hath been a strength to the poor, a strength to the 
 needy in their distress;" for which my heart is bowed in 
 thankfulness before Him. 
 
 28th 5 mo. Wei weather of late and small winds, inclin- 
 ing to calms. Our seamen cast a lead, I suppose about one 
 hundred fathoms, but found no bottom. Foggy weather 
 this morning. Through the kindness of the great Preserver 
 of men, my mind remains quiet ; and a degree of exercise 
 from day to day attends me, that the pure peaceable govern- 
 
 g3 
 
154 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 ment of Christ may spread and prevail among mankind. 
 
 The leading of a young generation in that pure way, in 
 which the wisdom of this world hath no place ; where 
 parents and tutors, humbly waiting for the heavenly Coun- 
 sellor, may example them in the truth, as it is in Jesus ; 
 hath for several days been the exercise of my mind. O, how 
 safe, how quiet is that state, where the soul stands in pure 
 obedience to the voice of Christ, and a watchful care is 
 maintained, not to follow the voice of the stranger ! Here 
 Christ is felt to be our shepherd ; and under his leading, 
 people are brought to a stability : and where he doth not 
 lead forward, we are bound in the bonds of pure love, to stand 
 still and wait upon Him. 
 
 In the love of money, and in the wisdom of this world, 
 business is proposed, then the urgency of affairs push for- 
 ward, and the mind cannot in this state, discern the good 
 and perfect will of God concerning us. The love of God is 
 manifested in graciously calling us to come out of that which 
 stands in confusion ; but if we bow not in the name of Jesus ; 
 if we give nol up those prospects of gain, which, hi the wis- 
 dom of this world, are open before us, but say in our hearts, 
 " I must needs go on ; and in going on, I hope to keep 
 as near to the purity of truth as the business before me will 
 admit of ;" the mind remains entangled, and the shining of 
 the light of life into the soul is obstructed. 
 
 Surely the Lord calls to mourning and deep humiliation, 
 that in his fear we may be instructed, and led safely through 
 the great difficulties and perplexities in this present age. In 
 an entire subjection of our wills, the Lord graciously opens 
 a way for his people, where all their wants are bounded by his 
 wisdom : and here we experience the substance of what 
 Moses the prophet figured out in the water of separation, as 
 a purification from sin. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 155 
 
 Esau is mentioned as a child red all over, like a hairy 
 garment. In Esau is represented the natural will of man. In 
 preparing the water of separation, a red heifer without blemish 
 on which there had been no yoke, was to be slain, and her 
 blood sprinkled by the priest seven times towards the taber- 
 nacle of the congregation : then her skin, her flesh, and all 
 pertaining to her, was to be burnt without the camp ; and of 
 her ashes the water was prepared. Thus the crucifying of 
 the old man, or natural will, is represented ; and hence 
 comes a separation from that carnal mind which is death. He 
 who toucheth the dead body of a man, and purifieth not him- 
 self with the water of separation, defileth the tabernacle of the 
 Lord; he is unclean." — Num. xix. 13. 
 
 If any through the love of gain, engage in business, wherein 
 they dwell as among the tombs, and touch the bodies of those 
 who are dead; should through the infinite love of God, feel 
 the power of the cross of Christ to crucify them to the world, 
 and therein learn humbly to follow the Divine leader ; here is 
 the judgment of this world — here the prince of this worldis cast 
 out. The water of separation is felt ; and though we have been 
 among the slain, and through the desire of gain, have toviched 
 the dead body of a man ; yet, in the purifying love of Clirist, 
 we are washed in the water of separation ; we are brought 
 oif from that business ; from that gain, and from that fel- 
 lowship, which is not agreeable to his holy will. I have felt 
 a renewed confirmation in the time of this voyage, that 
 the Lord, in his infinite love, is calling to his visited chil- 
 dren, so to give up all outward possessions, and means of 
 getting treasures, that his Holy Spirit may have free course 
 in their hearts, and direct them in all their proceedings. To 
 feel the substance pointed at in this figure, man must know 
 death, as to his own will. 
 
 " No man can see God and live." This was spoken by the 
 Almighty to Moses the prophet, and opened by our blessed 
 
156 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 Redeemer. As death comes on our own wills, and a new life 
 is formed in us, the heart is purified, and prepared to under- 
 stand clearly, " Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall 
 see God." In purity of heart, the mind is divinely opened 
 to hehold the nature of universal righteousness, or the righ- 
 teousness of the kingdom of God. "No man hath seen the 
 Father, save he that is of God, he hath seen the Father." 
 
 The natural mind is active about the things of this life ; 
 and in this natural activity, business is proposed, and a will is 
 formed in us to go forward in it. And so long as this natural 
 win remains unsubjected, so long there remains an obstruc- 
 tion to the clearness of Divine light operating in us ; but 
 when we love God with all our heart, and with all dur 
 strength, in this love, we love our neighbour as our- 
 selves ; and a tenderness of heart is felt towards all people for 
 whom Christ died, even those who, as to outward circumstan- 
 ces, may be to us as the Jews were to the Samaritans. " Who 
 is my neighbour" ? See this question answered by our Sa- 
 viour, Luke X. 30. In this love we can say, that Jesus is 
 the Lord ; and in this reformation in our souls, manifested in 
 a full reformation of our lives, wherein all things are new, and 
 all things are of God, 2 Cor. v. 18; the desire of gain is 
 subjected. 
 
 When employment is honestly followed in the light of 
 truth, and people become diligent in business, " fervent in 
 spirit, serving the Lord" — Rom. xii. 11, the meaning of the 
 name is opened to us : " This is the name by which he shall 
 be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS."— Jer. 
 xxiii. 6. Oh how precious is this name ! it is like ointment 
 poured out. The chaste virgins are in love with the Re- 
 deemer ; and for promoting his peaceable kingdom in 
 the world, are content to endure hardness like good sol- 
 diers ; and are so separated in spirit from the desire of riches, 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 157 
 
 that in their employments they become extensively careful to 
 give no offence, either to Jew or Heathen, or to the church of 
 Christ. 
 
 31st of 5 rao. and 1st of the week. We had a meeting in 
 the cabin, with nearly all the ship's company, the whole 
 being near thirty. In this meeting the Lord in mercy fa- 
 voured us with the extending of his love. 
 
 2nd of 6 mo. Last evening the seamen found bottom, at 
 about seventy fathoms. This morning, a fair wind and plea- 
 sant. I sat on deck, my heart vi^as overcome with the love of 
 Christ, and melted into contrition before him. In this state, 
 the prospect of that work to which I found my mind drawn, 
 when in my native land, being in some degree opened before 
 me, I felt like a little child ; and my cries were put up to my 
 heavenly Father for preservation, that in an humble dependence 
 on Him, my soul might be strengthened in his love, and kept 
 inwardly waiting for his counsel. This afternoon we saw 
 that part of England called the Lizard. 
 
 Some fowls yet remained of those the passengers took for 
 their sea-store. I believe about fourteen perished in the 
 storms at sea, by the waves breaking over the quarter-deck ; 
 and a considerable number with sickness, at different times. 
 I observed the cocks crew as we came down the Delaware, 
 and while we were near the land ; but afterwards I think I did 
 not hear one of them crow till we came near the English 
 coast, when they again crowed a few times. In observing 
 their dull appearance at sea, and the pining sickness of some 
 of them, I often remembered the Fountain of goo(^ss, who 
 gave being to ail creatures, and whose love extends to caring 
 for the sparrows. I believe where the love of God is verily 
 perfected, and the true spirit of government watchfully at- 
 tended to, a tenderness towards all creatures made subject to 
 us will be experienced ; and a care felt in us, that we do not 
 
168 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 lessen that sweetness of life in the animal creation, which the 
 great Creator intends for them under our government. 
 
 4th of 6 mo. Wet weather, high winds, and so dark that 
 we could see but a little way. I perceived our seamen were 
 apprehensive of the danger of missing the channel, which I 
 understood was nai'row. In a while it grew lighter ; and they 
 saw the land, and knew where we were. Thus the Father of 
 mercies was pleased to try us with the sight of dangers ; and 
 then graciously, from time to time, deliver us from them : 
 thus sparing our lives, that in humility and reverence we 
 might walk before Him, and put our trust in Him. About 
 noon a pilot came off from Dover, where my beloved friend 
 Samuel Emlen ^wnt on shore, and ihence to London, about 
 seventy-two miles by land ; but I felt easy in staying in the 
 ship. 
 
 7th of 6 mo. and 1st of the week. A clear morning ; we 
 lay at anchor for the tide, and had a parting meeting with 
 the ship's company, in which my heart was enlarged in a 
 fervent concern for them, tliat they may come to experience 
 salvation through Christ. Had a head-wind up the Thames ; 
 lay sometimes at anchor ; saw many ships passing, and some 
 at anchor near ; and I had large opportunity of feeling the 
 spirit in which the poor bewildered sailors too generally live: 
 that lamentable degeneracy, which so much prevails in the 
 people employed on the seas, so affected my heart, that I can- 
 not easily convey the feeling I had to another. 
 
 The present state of the seafaring life in general, appears 
 so oppoake to that of a pious education ; so full of corruption, 
 and extrelne alienation from God ; so full of the most dan- 
 gerous examples to young people, that in looking towards a 
 young generation, I feel a care for them, that they may have 
 an education different from the present one of lads at sea ; 
 and that all of us, who are acquainted with the pure gos- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 1.59 
 
 pel spirit, may lay this case to heart, may remember the la- 
 mentable corruptions which attend the conveyance of merchan- 
 dise across the seas, and so abide in the love of Christ, that 
 being delivered from tlie entangling expenses of a curious, 
 delicate, and luxurious life, we may learn contentment with a 
 little ; and promote the seafaring life no further than that 
 spirit, which leads into all truth, attends us in our proceedings. 
 
 CHAP. XI 1. 
 
 1772. 
 
 Attends the yearly-meeting in London — Then proceeds towards 
 Yorhshire— Visits quarterly and other meetings in the counties of 
 Hertford, Warwick, Oxford, Nottingham, York, and Westmore- 
 land. — Returns to Yorkshire — Instructive observations and letters. 
 Hears of the decease of William Hunt. — Some account of him. 
 — The author^s last illness and death at York. 
 
 On the 8th of 6 mo. 1772, we landed at London, and I 
 went straightway to the yearly meeting of ministers and 
 elders, which had been gathered, I suppose, about half an 
 hour. 
 
 In this meeting my mind was humbly contrite. In the 
 afternoon the meeting for business was opened, which by 
 adjournments held near a week. In these meetings I often 
 felt a living concern for the establishment of friends in the 
 pure life of truth. My heart was enlarged in the meeting of 
 ministers, that for business, and in several meetings for public 
 worship ; and I felt my mind united in truelove, to the faithful 
 labourers now gathered at this yearly meeting. On the 15th 
 I went to a quarterly meeting at Hertford. 
 
160 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 1st of 7 mo. I have been at quarterly meetings at Sher- 
 rington, Northampton, Banbury, and Shipton ; and have had 
 sundry meetings between. My miad hath been bowed 
 under a sense of Divine goodness manifested among 
 us ; my heart Iiath been often enlargisd in true love, both 
 among ministers and elders, and in public meetings ; and 
 through the Lord's goodness, I believe it hath been a fresh 
 visitation to many, in particular to the youth. 
 
 17th. I was this daj' at Birmingham ; I have been at 
 meetings at Coventry, Warwick, in Oxfordshire, and sundry 
 other places, and have felt the humbling hand of the Lord 
 upon me ; but through his tender mercies I find peace in the 
 labours I have gone through. 
 
 26th. I have continued travelling northward, visiting 
 meetings. Was this day at Nottingham ; the forenoon meet- 
 ing was especially, through Divine love, a heart-tendering 
 season. Next day I had a meeting in a friends' family, which, 
 through the strengthening arm of the Lord, was a time to be 
 thankfully remembered. 
 
 2nd of 8th mo. and 1st of the week. I was this day at 
 Sheffield, a large inland town. I was at sundry meetings last 
 week, and feel inward thankfulness for that Divine support, 
 which hath been graciously extended to me. On the 9th I was 
 at Eushworth. I have lately passed through some painful la- 
 bour ; but have been comforted under a sense of that Divine 
 visitation, which I feel extended towards many young people. 
 
 I6th of 8th mo. and 1st of the week, I was at Settle. It 
 hath of late been a time of inward poverty ; under which 
 my mind hath been preserved in a watchful tender state, feel- 
 ing for the mind of the holy Leader, and I find peace in the 
 labours I have passed through. 
 
 On inquiry in many places, I find the price of rye about 
 five shillings ; . wheat eight shillings per bushel ; catmeal 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 161 
 
 twelve shillings for a hundred and twenty pounds ; mut- 
 ton from three pence to five pence per pound ; bacon from 
 seven pence to nine pence ; cheese from four pence to 
 six pence ; butter from eight pence to ten pence ; house 
 rent for a poor man, from twenty-five shillings to forty 
 shillings per year, to be paid weekly ; wood for fire very 
 scarce and dear; coal in some places, two shillings and six 
 pence per hundred weight ; but near the pits not a quarter 
 so much. may the wealthy consider the poor ! 
 
 The wages of labouring men, in several counties towards 
 London, are ten pence per day in common business, the em- 
 ployer finds small beer, and the labourer finds his own food ; 
 but in harvest and hay time, wages are about one shilling per 
 day, and the labourer hath all his diet. In some parts of the 
 north of England, poor labouring men have their food where 
 they work, and appear in common to do rather better than 
 nearer London. Industrious women, who spin in the facto- 
 ries, get some four pence, some five pence, and so on to six, 
 seven, eight, nine, or ten pence per day, and find their own 
 house-room and diet. Great numbers of poor people live 
 chiefly on bread and water, in the southern parts of England, 
 as well as in the northern parts ; and there are many poor 
 children not even taught to read. May those who have abun- 
 dance lay these things to heart ! 
 
 Stage coaches frequently go upwards of one hundred miles 
 in twenty-four hours ; and I have heard friends say, in several 
 places, that it is common for horses to be killed with hard 
 driving, and that many others are driven till they grow blind. 
 Post-boys pursue their business, each one to his stage, 
 all night through the winter. Some boys, who ride long 
 stages, sufier greatly in winter nights, and at several places, 
 I have heard of their being frozen to death. So great is the 
 hurry in the spirit of this world, that in aiming to do business 
 
102 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 quickly, and to gain wealth, the creation at this day doth 
 loudly groan. 
 
 As my journey hath been without a horse, I have had 
 several offers of being assisted on my way in these stage 
 coaches, but have not been in them ; nor have I had freedom 
 to send letters by these posts, in the present way of their 
 riding; the stages being so fixed, and one boy dependent on 
 another, as to time and going at great speed, that in long cold 
 winter nights, the poor boys suffer much. I heard in America 
 of the way of these posts ; and cautioned friends iii the general 
 meeting of ministers and elders at Philadelphia, and in the 
 yearly meeting of ministers and elders in London, not to send 
 letters to me on any common occasion by post. And though, 
 on this account, I may be likely not to hear so often from my 
 family left behind ; yet for righteousness sake I am, through 
 Divine favour, made content. 
 
 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 traffic, carried on in im- 
 pure channels. Great is the trade to Africa for slaves ! and 
 for the loading of these ships, a great number of people are 
 employed in their factories ; among whom are many of our 
 society. Friends, in early times, refused on a religious prin- 
 ciple, to make or trade in superfluities; of which. we have 
 many testimonies on record : but for want of faithfulness, 
 some, whose examples were of note in our society, gave way ; 
 from which others took more liberty. Members of our so- 
 ciety 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 ; which hath spread from less to 
 more, till superfluity of some kinds is common among us. 
 
 In this declining state, many look at the example of others 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. ' l(Si 
 
 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»^ajid 
 get down to the Eock, the sure foundation, and there hearke^ 
 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 in the Lord, he will graciously lead some to be patterns 
 of deep self-denial in things relating to trade and handicraft 
 labour: and others who have plenty of the treasures of this 
 world, will be examples of a plain frugal life, and pay wages 
 to such as they may hire, more liberally than is now custom- 
 ary in some places. 
 
 23rd of 8 mo. I was this day at Preston Patrick, and had 
 a comfortable meeting. I have several times been entertained 
 at the houses of friends, who had sundry things about them 
 that had the appearance of outward greatness ; and as I have 
 kept inward, way hath opened for conversation with such in 
 private, in which Divine goodness hath favoured us together 
 with heart-tendering times. 
 
 26th of 8 mo. — Being now at George Crosfield's, in the 
 county of Westmoreland, I feel a concern to commit to wri- 
 ting, the following uncommon circumstance. 
 
 In a time of sickness with the pleurisy, a little more than 
 two years and a half ago, I was brought so near the gates of 
 death, that I forgot my name. Being then desirous to know 
 who I was, I saw a mass of matter of a dull gloomy colour, 
 between the south and the east ; and was informed that this 
 mass was human beings in as great misery as they could be, 
 and live, and that I was mixed with them, and that hence- 
 forth I might not consider myself as a distinct or separate be- 
 ing. In this state I remained several hours. I then heard a 
 
1G4 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 soft melodious voice, more- pure and harmonious than any I 
 had heard with my ears before ; I believed it was the voice of 
 an apgel, who spake to the other angels : the words were 
 -s^ John Woolman is dead." I soon remembered that I was 
 once John Woolman, and being assured that I was alive in 
 the body, I greatly wondered what that heavenly voice could 
 mean. I believed beyond doubting that it was the voice of 
 an holy angel, but as yet it was a mystery to me. 
 
 I was then carried in spirit to the mines, where poor op- 
 pressed people were digging rich treasures for those called 
 Christians, and heard them blaspheme the name of Christ ; 
 at which I was grieved ; for his name to me was precious. 
 I jvas then informed that these heathens were told, that those 
 who oppressed them were the followers of Christ ; and they 
 said among themselves, "if Chiist directed them to use us in 
 this sort, then Christ is a cruel tyrant." 
 
 All this time the song of the angel remained a mystery ; 
 and in the morning, my dear wife and some others coining 
 to my bedside, I asked them if they knew who I was; and 
 they telling me I was John Woolman, thought I was light- 
 headed : for I told them not what the angel said, nor was I 
 disposed to talk much to any one, but was veiy desirous to 
 get so deep, that I might understand this mystery. 
 
 My tongue was often so dry, that I could not speak till I 
 had moved it about and gathered some moisture ; and as I lay 
 still for a time, I at length felt Divine power prepare my mouth 
 that I could speak; and I then said, " I am crucified with 
 Christ, nevertheless I live ; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me. 
 And the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith 
 of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." 
 Then the mystery was opened, and I perceived there was joy 
 in heaven over a sinner who had repented ; and that the lan- 
 guage " John Woolman is dead," meant no more than the 
 death of my own will. 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 163 
 
 Soon after I coughed, and raised much bloody mat- 
 ter, which I had not done during this vision. My natural 
 understanding now returned as before, and I saw that people 
 setting off their tables with silver vessels at entertainments, 
 was often stained with worldly glory ; and that in the present 
 state of thmgs, I should take heed how I fed myself out of 
 such vessels. Going to our monthly meeting soon after 
 my recovery, I dined at a friend's house where drink was 
 brought in silver vessels, and not in any other; Wanting 
 something to drink, I told him my case with weeping, and he 
 ordered some drink for me in another vessel. I afterwards 
 went through the same exercise in several friends' houses in 
 America, as well as in England, and I have cause to acknow- 
 ledge with humble reverence, the loving kindness of my 
 heavenly Father, who hath preserved me in such a tender 
 frame of mind, that none, I beheve, have ever been offended 
 at what I have said on that subject. 
 
 After this sickness, I spake not in public meetings for wor- 
 ship for nearly one year ; but my mind was very often in com- 
 pany with the oppressed slaves, as I sat in meetings; and 
 though, under this dispensation, I was shut up from speaking, 
 yet the spring of the gospel ministry was, many times, livingly 
 opened in me, and the Divine gift operated by abundance of 
 weeping, in feeling the oppression of this people. It being so 
 long since I passed through this dispensation, and the matter 
 remaining fresh and lively in my mind, I believe it safest for 
 me to commit it to writing. 
 
 30th of 8 mo. This morning I wrote a letter, iu sub- 
 stance as follows : 
 
 " Beloved friend, 
 
 " My mind i,s often affected as I pass along, under a sense 
 of the state of many poor people, who sit under that sort of 
 ministry which requires much outward labour to support it ; 
 
106 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 and the loving kindness of our heavenly Father, in opening a 
 pure gospel ministry in this nation, hath often raised thank- 
 fulness in my heart to Him. I often remember the conflicts 
 of the faithful mider persecution, and now look at the free 
 exercise of the pure gift uninterrupted by outward laws, as a 
 trust committed to us ; which requires our deepest gratitude, 
 and most careful attention. I feel a tender concern that the 
 work of reformation so prosperously carried on in this land 
 within a few ages past, may go forward and spread among the 
 nations ; and may not go backward, through dust gathering 
 on our garments, who have been called to a work so great and 
 so precious. 
 
 " Last evening during thy absence, I had a little opportu- 
 nity with some of thy family, in which 1 rejoiced ; and feel- 
 ing a sweetness on my mind towards thee, I now endeavour to 
 open a little of the feeling I had there. 
 
 " I have heard that you in these parts, have at certain 
 seasons, meetings of conference, in relation to friends living 
 up to our principles, in which several meetings unite in one. 
 With this I feel unity, having in some measure felt truth lead 
 that way among friends in America ; and I have found, my 
 dear friend, that in these labours all superfluities in our own 
 living are against us. I feel that pure love towards thee, in 
 which there is freedom. 
 
 " I look at that precious gift bestowed on thee, with aw- 
 fiilness before Him who gave it ; and feel a desire, that we 
 may be so separated to the gospel of Christ, that those things 
 which proceed from the spirit of this world, may have no 
 place among us. 
 
 " Thy friend, 
 
 " John Woolman." 
 
 I rested a few days, in body and mind, with our friend 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 107 
 
 Jane Crosfield who was once in America. On the sixth day 
 of the week I was at Kendal in Westmoreland ; and at Greyrig 
 meeting the thirtieth day of the month, and first of the week. 
 I have known poverty of late, and have been graciously sup- 
 ported to keep in the patience : and am thankful, under a 
 sense of the goodness of the Lord towards those who are of 
 a contrite spirit. 
 
 6th of 9 mo. and first of the week, I was this day at Counter- 
 side; a large meeting house, and very full. Through the 
 opening of pure love, it was a strengthening time to me, and I 
 believe to many more. 
 
 13th of 6 mo. This day I was at Leyburn, a small meet- 
 ing ; but the town's people coming in, the house was crowded. 
 It was a time of heavy labour, and I believe was a profitable 
 meeting. At this place I heard that my kinsman William 
 Hunt from North Carolina, who was on a religious visit to 
 friends in England, departed this life on the 9th of this month, 
 of the small pox, at Newcastle. He appeared in the ministry 
 when a youth, and his labours therein were of good savour. 
 He travelled much in that work in America. I once heard 
 him say in public testimony, that his concern in that visit was 
 to be devoted to the service of Christ so fully, that he might 
 not spend one minute in pleasing himself; which words joined 
 with his example, was a means of stirring up the pure mind 
 in me. 
 
 Having of late often travelled in wet weather, through 
 narrow streets in towns and villages, where dirtiness under 
 foot, and the scent arising from that filth, which more or less 
 infects the air of all thickly settled towns, were disagreeable ; 
 and being but weakly, 1 have felt distress both iu body and 
 mind with that which is impure. In these journeys I have 
 been where much cloth hath been dyed ; and have at sundry 
 times walked over ground where much of their dye-stuffs 
 
1G8 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 has drained away. This hath produced a. longing in my 
 mind, that people might come into cleanness of spirit, clean- 
 ness of person, and cleanness about their houses and gar- 
 ments. 
 
 Some of jhe great carry delicacy to a great height them- 
 selves, and yet real cleanliness is not generally promoted. 
 Dyes being invented partly to please the eye, and partly to 
 hide dirt, I have felt in this weak state, when travelling in 
 dirtiness, and aflfected with unwholesome scents, a strong 
 desire that the nature of dyeing cloth to hide dirt may be 
 more fully considered. • 
 
 Washing our garments to keep them sweet is cleanly, but 
 it is the opposite to real cleanliness to hide dirt in them. 
 Through giving way to hiding dirt in our garments, a spirit 
 which would conceal that which is disagreeable is strength- 
 ened. Eeal cleanliness becometh a holy people; but hiding 
 that which is not clean by colouring our garments, seems 
 contrary to the sweetness of sincerity. Through some sorts 
 of dyes cloth is rendered less useful. And if the value of dye 
 stuffs, the expense of dyeing, and the damage done to cloth, 
 were all added together, and that cost applied to keeping all 
 sweet and clean, how much more would real cleanliness pre- 
 vail. 
 
 On this visit to England, I have felt some instructions 
 sealed on my mind, which I am concerned to leave in writing, 
 for tlie usfl of such as are called to the station of a minister of 
 Christ 
 
 Christ being the Prince of peace, and we being no more 
 than ministers, it is necessary for us, not only to feel a con- 
 cern in our first going forth, but to experience the renewing 
 thereof, in the appointment of meetings. I felt a concern in 
 America, to prepare for this voyage; and being through the 
 mercy of God, brought safe hither, my heart was like a ves- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. ICJ 
 
 » 
 
 sel that wanted vent. For several weeks after my ayival, 
 when my mouth was opened in meetings, it was like the rais- 
 ing of a gate in a water-course, when a weight of water lay 
 upon it. In these labours there was a fresh visitation to ma- 
 ny ,*especially to the youth ; but sometimes I felt poor and 
 empty, and yet there appeared a necessity to appoint meetings. 
 In this I was exercised to abide in the pure life of truth, and 
 in all my labours to watch diligently against the motions of 
 self in my own mind. 
 
 I have frequently found a necessity to stand up, when the 
 spring of the ministry was low, and to speak from the neces- 
 sity, in that which subjecteth the will of the creature ; and. 
 herein I was united with the suffering seed, and found inward 
 sweetness in these mortifying labours. As I have been pre- 
 served in a watchful attention to the Divine leader, under these 
 dispensations enlargement at times hath followed, and the power 
 of truth hath risen higher in some meetings, than I ever knew 
 it before through me. Thus I have been more and more in- 
 structed as to the necessity of depending, not upon a concern 
 which I felt in America, to come on a visit to England, but 
 upoffljihe daily -instructions of Christ, the Prince of peace. 
 
 Of late I have sometimes felt a stop in the appointment of 
 meetings, not wholly, but in part ; and I do not feel liberty to 
 appoint tkem so quickly one after another as I have done 
 heretofore. The work of the ministry being a work of Divine 
 love, I feel that the openings thereof are to be waited for in all 
 our' appointments. 0h how deep is Divine wisdom ! Christ 
 puts forth his qainisters, and goeth before them ; and oh how 
 great is the danger of departing from the pure feeling of that 
 which leadeth safely ! Christ knoweth the state of the people, 
 and in the pure feeling of the gospel ministry, their states are 
 opened to his servants. Christ knoweth when the friiit-be£w- 
 ing branches themselves have need of purging. Oh that these 
 
 H 
 
170 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 lessons may be remembered by me ! and that all who ap- 
 point meetings may proceed in the pure feeling of'diity ! 
 
 I have sometimes felt a necessity to stand up, but that 
 spirit which is of the world hath so much prevailed in many, 
 and the pure life of truth hath been so pressed down, that I 
 have gone forward, not as one travelling in a road cast up and 
 well prepared, but as a man walking through a miry place, in 
 which are stones here and there safe-to step on, but so situa- 
 ted that, one step being taken, 'time is 'necessary to see whereto 
 step next. Now I find that in a state of pure obedience, the 
 mind learns contentment, in appearing weak and foolish to 
 that wisdom which is of the world ; and in these lowly la- 
 bours, they who stand in a low place, and are rightly exer- 
 cised under the cross, will find nourishment. The gift is 
 pure ; and while the eye is single in attending thereto, the 
 understanding is preserved clear ; self is kept out. We re- 
 joice in fiUirfg up that which remains of the afflictions of 
 Christ, for his body's sake, which is the church. 
 
 The natural man loveth eloquence, and many love to hear 
 eloquent orations ; and if there be not a careful attention to 
 the gift, men who have once laboured in the pure g^pel 
 ministry, growing weary of suSering, and ashamed of appear- 
 ing weak, may kindle a fire, compass themselves about with 
 sparks, and walk in the light ; not of Christ who Is under 
 suffering, but of that fire which they in departing from the 
 gift, have kindled, in order that those hearers, who have left 
 the meek, suffering state for worldly wisc^m, may be warmed 
 with this fire, and speak highly of their labours. That which 
 is of God gathers to God ; and that which is of the world, is 
 owned by the world. 
 
 In this journey a labour hath attended my mind, that the 
 ministers among us may be preserved in the meek, feelirg 
 life of truth, where we may have no desire but to follow 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 171 
 
 Christ, and to be with him ; that when he is under suffering, 
 we may suffer with him ; and never desire to rise up in do- 
 minion, but as he, by the virtue of his own spirit, may 
 raise us. 
 
 A few days after writing these considerations, our dear 
 friend, in the course of his religious visits, came to the city of 
 York, and attended inost of the sittings of the quarterly 
 meeting there ; but before it was over, he was taken ill of the 
 small-pox. Our friend Thomas Priestman, and others who 
 attended him, preserved the following minutes of his expres- 
 sions in the time of his sickness, and of his decease. 
 
 First day, the 27th of the ninth month, 1772. — His dis- 
 order appeared to be the small-pox. Being asked to have a 
 doctor's advice, he signified he had not freedom or liberty in 
 his mind so to do, standing wholly resigned to His will, who 
 gave him life, and whose power he had witnessed to raise and 
 heal him in sickness before, when he' seemed nigh unto death ; 
 and if he was to wind up now, he was perfectly resigned, 
 having no will either to live or die, and did not choose any 
 should be sent for to him : but a young man, aft apothecary, 
 coming of his own accord the next day, and desiring to do 
 something for him, he said he found a freedom to confer 
 with him and the other friends about him, and if any thing 
 should be«proposed as to medicine, that did not come through 
 defiled channels or oppressive hands, he should be willing to 
 ■ivnsider and take it, so far as he found freedom. 
 
 •pcond day. — He said he felt the disorder to affect his 
 i :; ,0 that he could think little, and but as a child; and 
 ' ■; 1 .1 jf his understanding should be more affected, to have 
 
 h2 
 
17-J THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 no;thing given him that those about him knew he had a testi- 
 mony against. 
 
 Third day. — He uttered the following prayer: " O Lord, 
 my God ! the amazing horrors of darkness were gathered 
 around me, and covered me all over, and I saw no way to go 
 forth ; I felt the depth and extenf of the misery of my fellow- 
 creatures separated from the Divine harmony, and it was 
 heavier than I could bear, and I was crushed down under it ; 
 I lifted up my hand, I stretched out my arm, but there was 
 none to help me ; I looked round about, and was amazed. 
 In the depths of misery, Lord ! I remembered that thou 
 art omnipotent ; that I had called thee Father ; and I felt 
 that I loved thee, and I was made quiet in thy will, and I 
 waited for deliverance from thee. Thou hadst pity upon me 
 when no man could help me ; I saw that meekness under 
 suffering was showed to us in the most affecting example of 
 thy Son, and thou taught me to follow him, and I said, " Thy 
 will, O Father, be done!" 
 
 Fourth day morning. 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 that the pains of death must be 
 hard to bear, 1»ut if he escaped them now, he must sometime 
 pass through them, and he did not know that he could be 
 better prepared, but had no will in it. He said hq, had "set- 
 tled 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, " though I feel them near to me at this time, 
 yet I freely give them up, having a hope that they will be pro- 
 vided for." And a little after said, " This trial is made 
 easier than I could have thought, my will being wholly taken 
 away ; if I was anxious for the event it would have been 
 harder; but I am not, and my mind enjoys a perfect calm." 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 173 
 
 la 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 ! and soon after he said, " Oh, my 
 Father ! my Father ! how comfortable art thou to m)' soul 
 in this trying season!" Being asked if he could take a little 
 nourishment, after some pause, he replied, " My child, I can- 
 not 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 inserted in 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 Ho 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 like a whirlwind 
 come over his mind, yet it had hitherto been kept steady,, and 
 centered in everlasting love ; adding, " and if that be mer- 
 cifully continued, I ask and desire no more. Another time 
 he said, he had long had a view of visiting this nation, and 
 sometime before he came, had a dream, in which he saw him- 
 self in the northern parts of it, and that the spring of the 
 gospel was opened in him much as it was in the beginning of 
 friends, such as George Fox and William Dewsbury, and he saw 
 the different states of the people, as clear as he had ever seen 
 flowers in a garden ; but in his going along he was suddenly 
 stopped, though he could not see for what end ; but look- 
 ing towards home, fell into a flood of tears, which waked him. 
 
 At another time he said, " My draught seemed strongest 
 towards the North, and Lmentioned in my own monthly 
 
174 THE JOURNAL OF 
 
 meeting, that attending the quarterly meeting at York, and 
 being there, looked like home to me." 
 
 Fifth-day night. Having repeatedly consented to take me- 
 dicine 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." 
 
 On sixth day morning he broke forth early in supplication 
 on this wise : "0 Lord, it was thy power that enabled me to 
 forsake sin in my youth, and I have felt thy bruises for diso- 
 bedience ; but as I bowed under them thou healedst me, con- 
 tinuing a father and a friend ; I feel thy power now, and I beg 
 that in the approaching trying moment, thou wUt keep my 
 heart steadfast unto thee." On his giving directions to a 
 friend concerning some little things, she said, " I wiU take 
 care, but hope thou wilt live to order them thyself." He re- 
 plied, " My hope is in Christ; and though I may 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 
 gathered to my everlasting rest." On her saying she did not 
 doubt that, but could not help mourning to see so many faith- 
 ful servants removed at so low a time, he said, " All good 
 cometh from the Lord, whose power is the same, and He can 
 work as He sees best." The same day he had given directions 
 about wrapping his corpse ; perceiving a friend to weep, he 
 said, " I would rather thou wouldst guard against weeping 
 for me, my sister; I sorrow not, though I have had some 
 painful conflicts, but now they seem over and matters well 
 settled, and I look at the face of my dear Redeemer, for sweet 
 is his voice, and his countenance is comely. 
 
 1st day, 4th of 10th mo. Being very weak, and in general 
 difficult to be understood, he uttered a few words in commemo- 
 
JOHN WOOLMAN. 175 
 
 ration of the Lord's goodness; and added, "How tenderly 
 have I been waited on in this time of affl^tion, in which I may 
 say, in Job's words, Tedious days and "wearisome nights are 
 appointed to 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 administering of suitable 
 things." 
 
 Second day morning. The apothecary, who appeared very 
 anxious to assist him, being present, he queried about the 
 probability of such a load of matter being thrown off his 
 weak body ; and the apothecary making some remarks, imply- 
 ing he thought it might ; he spoke with an 'audible voice on 
 this wise : " My dependence is on the Lord Jesus, 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, lam content; and if 
 to die, I am resigned ; but if thou canst not be easy without 
 trying to assist nature, I submit." After which, 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, 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 expired without sigh, groan, or struggle. 
 
 END OF THE JOURNAL. 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 John Woolman's account of his sister Elizabeth Woolman. ^ 
 
 In the winter of 1747 my eldest sister, Elizabeth Wool- 
 man jun., died of the small-pox, aged thirty-one years. She 
 was from her youth, of a thoughtful disposition, and very 
 compassionate to her acquaintance in sickness or distress ; 
 being ready to help them as far as she could. She was duti- 
 ful to her parents ; one instance whereof follows: — It hap- 
 pened that she, and two of her sisters, being then near the 
 estate of young women, had an inclination one first day after 
 meeting to go on a visit to some other young women at some 
 distance, whose company, I believe*, would have done them no 
 good. They expressed their desire to our parents ; who 
 were dissatisfied with the proposal, and prevented them. The 
 same day as my sisters and I were together, and they talking 
 about their disappointment, Elizabeth expressed her con- 
 tentment under it, signifying she believed it might be for 
 their good. 
 
 h3 
 
178 APPENDIX. 
 
 A few years after she attained to mature age, through the 
 gracious visitations of God's love, she was strengthened to live 
 a self-denying exemplary life, giving herself much to reading 
 and meditation. 
 
 The following letter may shew in some degree her dispo- 
 sition : 
 
 Haddonfield, 1st day, 1 1th month, 1743. 
 Beloved brother John Woolraan, 
 
 In that love which desires the welfare of all men, I write 
 unto thee. I received thine, dated second day of the tenth 
 month last, with which I was comforted. My spirit is bowed 
 with thankfulness that I should be remembered, who am un- 
 worthy ; but the Lord is full of mercy, and his goodness is 
 extended to the meanest of his creation ; therefore in his in- 
 finite love, he hath pitied and spared and shewed mercy, that 
 1 have not been cut off nor quite lost ; but at times I am 
 refreshed and comforted as with the glimpse of his presence, 
 which is more to the immortal part, than all which this world 
 can afford : so, with desires for thy preservation with my 
 own, 1 remaui 
 
 thy affectionate sister, 
 
 ELIZ. WOOLMA.N jun. 
 
 The fore part of her illness she was in great sadness and 
 dejection of mind, of which she told one of her intimate 
 friends, and said, "when I was a young girl, I was wanton and 
 airy, but I thought I had thoroughly repented of it ;" and 
 
APPENDIX. 179 
 
 added, "I have of late had great satisfaction in meetings." 
 Though she was thus disconsolate, she still retained a hope, 
 which was as an anchor to her. Some time after, the same friend 
 came again to see her, to whom she mentioned her former ex- 
 pressions, and said, " it is otherwise now, for the Lord hath 
 rewarded me seven-fold ; and I am unable to express the 
 greatness of his love manifested to me." Her disorder ap- 
 pearing dangerous, and our mother being sorrowful, she took 
 notice of it, and said: "dear mother ! weep not for me ; I 
 go to my God," and many times, with an audible voice, ut- 
 tered praise to her Eedeemer. 
 
 A friend coming some miles to see her the morning before 
 she died, asked her how she did. She answered " I have 
 had a hard night, but shall not have another such, for I shall 
 die, and it will be well with my soul ;" and accordingly 
 she died the next evening. 
 
 The following ejaculations were found among her writings; 
 written I believe at four times. 
 
 L Oh ! that my head were as waters, and mine eyes as 
 a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night, uxit'A 
 acquainted with my God. 
 
 II. Lord that I may enjoy thy presence ; or else my 
 time is lost, and my life a snare to my soul. 
 
 III. O Lord, that I may receive bread from thy table, 
 and that thy grace may abound in me. 
 
 IV. O Lord, that I may be acquainted with thy presence, 
 that I may be seasoned with thy salt, that thy grace may 
 abound in me. 
 
180 APPENDIX. 
 
 The TESTIMONY of Friends in Yorkshire, at their quarterly 
 meeting held at York, the 2ith and 25th of the 3rd month, 1773,- 
 concerning John Woolman of Mount Holly, in the Province of 
 New Jersey, North America ; who departed this life at the house 
 of our friend Thomas Priestrnan, in the suburbs of this City, 
 the 1th of the lOth month, 1772, and was interred in the burial 
 ground of friends the 9th of the same, aged about fifty-two 
 years. 
 
 This our valuable friend having been under a religious 
 engagement for some time, to visit friends in this nation, and 
 more especially us in the northern parts, undertook the same 
 in full concurrence and near sympathy with his friends and 
 brethren at home ; as appeared by certificates from the 
 monthly and quarterly-meetings to which he belonged, and 
 from the spring-meeting of ministers and elders, held at 
 Philadelphia, for Pennsylvania and New-Jersey. 
 
 He arrived in the city of London the beginning of the last 
 yearly meeting, and after attending that meeting, travelled 
 northward, visiting the quarterly- meetings of Hertfordshire, 
 Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, and Wor- 
 cestershire, and divers particular meetings in his way. 
 
 He visited many meetings on the West side of this county, 
 also some in Lancashire and Westmoreland, from whence he 
 came to our quarterly-meeting in the last ninth month, and 
 though much out of health, yet was enabled to attend all the 
 sittings of that meeting except the last. 
 
APPENDIX. 181 
 
 His disorder, which proved the small-pox, increased 
 speedily upon him, and was very afflicting ; under which he 
 was supported in much meekness, patience, and christian 
 fortitude. To those who attended him in his illness, 
 his mind appeared to be centred in Divine love ; under the 
 precious influence whereof we believe he finished his course, 
 and entered into the mansions of everlasting rest. 
 
 In the early part of his illness he requested a friend to 
 write, and he broke forth thus. 
 
 " Lord my God ! the amazing horrors of darkness 
 were gathered around me and covered me all over, and I saw 
 no way to go forth ; 1 felt the misery of my fellow creatures 
 separated from the Divine harmony, and it was heavier than I 
 could bear, and I was crushed down under it ; I lifted up my 
 hand, and stretched out my arm, but there was none to help 
 me ; I looked round about, and was amazed : In the depth 
 of misery, Lord ! I remembered that thou art omnipotent, 
 that I had called thee Father, and I felt that I loved thee, and 
 I was made quiet in thy will, and I waited for deliverance 
 from thee ; thou hadst pity upon me, when no man could 
 help me ; I saw that meekness under suffering was shewed to 
 us in the most affecting example of thy Son, and thou taught 
 me to follow him, and I said, thy will, Father be done." 
 
 Many more of his weighty expressions might have been 
 inserted here ; but it was deemed unnecessary, they being 
 already published in print. 
 
 He was a man endued with a large natural capacity ; and 
 being obecWnt to the manifestations of Divine Grace, having 
 in patience and humility endured many deep baptisms, he be- 
 came thereby sanctified and fitted for the Lord's work, and 
 was truly serviceable in his Church. Dwelling in awful fear 
 and watchfuhiess, he was careful in his public appearances to 
 feel the putting forth of the Divine Hand ; so that the spring 
 
182 APPENDIX. 
 
 of the gospel ministry often flowed through him with great 
 sweetness and purity, as a refreshing stream to the weary 
 travellers towards the city of God. Skilful in dividing the 
 word, he was furnished by Him in whom are hid all the 
 treasures of wisdom and knowledge, to communicate freely to 
 the several states of the people where his lot was cast. His 
 conduct at other times was seasoned with like watchful cir- 
 cumspection, and attention to the guidance of Divine wisdom, 
 which rendered his whole conversation uniformly edifying. 
 
 He was fully persuaded that, as the life of Christ comes to 
 reign in the earth, all abuse and unnecessary oppression, both 
 of the human and brute creation, will come to an end ; but 
 under the sense of a deep revolt, and an overflowing stream 
 of unrighteousness, his life has been often a life of mourning. 
 
 He was deeply concerned on account of that inhuman and 
 iniquitous practice of making slaves of the people of Africa, or 
 holding them in that state ; and, on that account, we under- 
 stand he hath not only written some books, but travelled much 
 on the continent of America, in order to make the negro- 
 masters (especially those in profession with us) sensible of the 
 evil of such apractice; and though in this journey to England, 
 he was far removed from the outward sight of their sufferings, 
 yet his deep exercise of mind, and frequent concern to open 
 the miserable state of this deeply injured people, remained ; 
 as appears by a short treatise he wrote in this journey. His 
 testimony in the last meeting he attended was on this subject, 
 wherein he remarked, that as we, as a society, when under 
 outward sufferings, had often found it our concerii^o lay them 
 before those in authority, and thereby, in the Cbrd's time, 
 had obtained relief, so he recommended this oppressed part of 
 the creation to our notice ; that we may, as way may open, 
 represent their sufferings in an individual, if not in a society 
 capacity to those in authority. 
 
APPENDIX. 183 
 
 Deeply sensible that the desire to gratify people's inclina- 
 tions in luxury and superfluities, is the principal ground of op- 
 pression, and the occasion of many unnecessary wants, he 
 believed it to be his duty to be a pattern of great self-denial, 
 with respect to the things of this life, and earnestly to labour 
 with friends in the meekness of wisdom, to impress on their 
 minds the great importance -of our testimony in these things, 
 recommending to the guidance of the blessed truth in this and 
 all other concerns, and cautioning such as are experienced there- 
 in, against contenting themselves with acting to the stand- 
 ard of others, but to be careful to make the standard of truth, 
 manifested to them, the measure of their obedience. For, 
 said he " That purity of life which proceeds from faithfulness in 
 following the spirit of truth, that state where onr minds are 
 devoted to serve God, and all our wants are bounded by his 
 wisdom ; this habitation has often been opened before me as 
 a place of retirement for the children of the light, where they 
 may stand separated from that which disordereth and confu- 
 seth the affairs of society, and where we have a testimony of 
 our innocence in»the hearts of those who behold us.' 
 
 We conclude with fervent desires, that we as a people may 
 thus by our example, promote the Lord's work in the earth ; 
 and, our hearts being prepared, may unite in prayer to the 
 great Lord of the harvest, that as in his infinite wisdom he 
 hath greatly stripped the church, by removing of late divers 
 faithful ministers and elders, he may be pleased to send forth 
 many more faithful labourers into his harvest. 
 
184 APPENDIX. 
 
 A TESTIMONY of the Monthly Meeting of Friends, held in 
 Burlington, the first day of the eighth month, in the year of our 
 Lord, 1774, concerning our esteemed friend, John Woolman, 
 deceased. 
 
 He was born in Northampton, in the county nf Burlington, 
 and province of West-New- Jersey, in the eighth month, 1720, 
 of religious parents, who instructed him very early in the 
 principles of the christian religion, as professed by the people 
 called Quakers ; which he esteemed a blessing to him, even in 
 his younger years, tending to preserve him from "the infec- 
 tion of wicked children. But through the workings of the 
 enemy, and the levity incident to youth, he frequently deviated 
 from those parental precepts ; by which he laid a renewed 
 foundation for repentance, that was finally succeeded by a 
 " godly sorrow not to be repented of;" and so he became 
 acquainted with that sanctifying power which qualifies for 
 tme gospel ministry, into which he was called about the 
 twenty-second year of his age ; and by a faithful use of the 
 talents committed to him, he experienced an increase, until 
 he arrived at the state of a father, capable of dividing the 
 word aright to the different states he ministered unto ; dis- 
 pensing milk to babes, and meat to those of riper years. 
 Thus he found the efficacy of that power to arise, which in 
 
APP.ENDIX 18i) 
 
 his own expressions, "prepares the creature to stand Hke a 
 trumpet, through which the Lord speaks to his people." He 
 was a loving husband, a tender father, and was very humane 
 to every part of the creation under his care. 
 
 His concern for the poor and those in affliction was evi- 
 dent by his visits to them, whom he frequently relieved by 
 his assistance and charity. He was for many years deeply 
 exercised on account of the poor enslaved Africans, whose 
 cause, as he mentioned, lay almost continually upon him; and 
 he laboured to obtain Uberty for those captives both in public 
 and in private, and was favoured to see his endeavours 
 crowned with considerable success. He was particularly 
 desirous that friends should not be instrumental to lay burdens 
 on this oppressed people, but should remember the days of 
 suffering from which they had been providentially delivered ; 
 that, if times of trouble should return, no injustice dealt to 
 those in slavery might rise in judgment against us, but being 
 clear, we might on such occasions address the Almighty with 
 a degree of confidence for his interposition and relief; being 
 particularly careful as to himself, not to countenance slavery, 
 even by the use of those conveniencies of life which were 
 furnished by their labour. 
 
 He was desirous to have his own mind and the minds of 
 others, redeemed from the pleasures and immoderate profits of 
 this world, and to fix them on those joys which fade not 
 away ; his principal care being after a life of purity, endea- 
 vouring to avoid not only the grosser pollutions, but those 
 also which appearing in a more refined dress, are not suffi- 
 ciently guarded against by some well-disposed people. In the 
 latter part of his life he was remarkable for the plainness and 
 simplicity of his dress, and as much as possible avoided the 
 use of plate, costly furniture, and feasting; thereby endeavour- 
 ing to become an example of temperance and self-denial. 
 
186 APPENDIX. 
 
 which he believed himself called unto ; and he was favoured 
 with peace therein, although it carried the appearance of great 
 austerity in the view of some. He was very moderate in" his 
 charges in the way of business, and in his desires after gain ; 
 and though a man of industry, avoided and strove much to 
 lead others out of extreme labour and anxiety after perishable 
 . things ; being desirous that the strength of our bodies might 
 not be spent in procuring things unprofitable, and that we 
 might use moderation and kindness to the brute animals under 
 our care, to prize the use of them as a great favour, and by 
 no means to abuse them; that the gifts of Providence should 
 be thankfully received, and applied to the uses they were de- 
 signed for. 
 
 He several times opened a school at Mount Holly, for the 
 instruction of poor friends' children and others ; being con- 
 cerned for their help and improvement therein. His love 
 and care for the rising youth among us was truly great, re- 
 commending to parents, and those who have the charge of 
 them, to choose conscientious and pious tutors ; saying "it is 
 a lovely sight to behold innocent children:" and that, "to 
 labour for their help against that which would mar the beauty 
 of their minds, is a debt we owe them." 
 
 His ministry was sound, very deep and penetrating, some- 
 times pointing out the dangerous situation which indulgence 
 and custom lead into ; frequently exhorting others, especially 
 the youth, not to be discouraged at the difficulties which occur, 
 but to press after purity. He often expressed an earnest en- 
 gagement that pure wisdom should be attended to, which 
 would lead into lowliness of mind, and resignation to the 
 Divine will, in which state small possessions here would be 
 sufficient. 
 
 In transacting the affairs of the discipline, his judgment 
 was sound and clear, and he was very useful in treating with 
 
APPENDIX. 187 
 
 those who had done amiss ; he visited such in a private way 
 in that plainness which truth dictates, shewing great tender- 
 ness and christian forbearance. He was a constant attender 
 of our yearly-meeting, in which he was a good example, 
 ahd particularly useful; assisting in the business thereof with 
 great weight and attention. He several times visited most of 
 the meetings of friends in this and in the neighbouring pro- 
 vinces, with the concurrence of the monthly-meeting to which 
 he belonged, and we have reason to believe he had good ser- 
 vice therein ; generally or always expressing at his return 
 how it had fared with him, and the evidence of peace in his 
 mind for thus performing his duty. He was often concerned 
 with other friends in the important service of visiting families, 
 which he was enabled to go through to satisfaction. 
 
 In the minutes of the meeting of ministers and elders for 
 this quarter, at the foot of a list of the members of that 
 meeting, made about five years before his death, we find in his 
 hand writing the following observation and reflections. " As 
 looking over the minutes made by persons who have put oiT 
 this body, hath sometimes revived in me a thought how ages 
 pass away ; so this list may probably revive a like thought in 
 some, when I, and the rest of the persons above-named, are 
 centred in another state of being. — The Lord who was the 
 guide of my youth, hath in tender mercies helped me hitherto ; 
 he hath healed my wounds, he hath helped me out of grievous 
 entanglements ; he remains to be the strength of my life ; to 
 whom I desire to devote myself in time and in eternity." 
 
 Signed, John Woolman. 
 
 In the 12th month, 1771, he acquainted this meeting that 
 he found his mind drawn towards a religious visit to friends 
 in some parts of England, particularly in Yorkshire. In the 
 Brst month 1 772, he obtained our certificate, which was ap. 
 
188 APPENDIX. 
 
 proved and indorsed by our quarterly meeting, and by the 
 half year's meeting of ministers and elders at Philadelphia. 
 He embarked on his voyage in the fifth month, and arrived in 
 London in the sixth month following, at the time of their an- 
 nual meeting in that city. During his short visit to friends 
 in that kingdom,' we are informed that his services were ac- 
 ceptable and edifying. In his last illness he uttered many 
 lively and comfortable expressions, being " resigned, having 
 no will either to live or die," as appears by the testimony of 
 friends at York in Great Britain, in the suburbs whereof, at 
 ■the house of our friend Thomas Priestman, he died of the 
 small-pox, on the seventh of the tenth month, 1772, and was 
 buried in friends' burial-ground in that city, on the ninth of 
 the same, after a solid meeting, held on the occasion, at their 
 great meeting-house. He was aged near fifty-two, having 
 been a minister upwards of thirty years, during which time he 
 belonged to Mount-holly particular meeting, which he diligent- 
 ly attended when at home, and in health of body, and his 
 labours of love, and pious care for the prosperity of friends in 
 the blessed trlith, we hope may not be forgotten, but that 
 his good works may be remembered to edification. 
 
 Signed in, and by order of the said meeting, by 
 
 SAMUEL ALLISON, Clerk. 
 
 Read and approved at our quarterly-meeting, held at Bur- 
 lington the 29th of the 8th month, 1774. 
 
 Signed by order of the said meeting, 
 
 DANIEL SMITH, Clerk. 
 
THE 
 
 WORKS 
 
 JOHN WOOLMAN, 
 
 CONSISTING OF 
 
 CONSIDEKATIONS ON THE KEEPING OF NEGROS, 
 REFLECTIONS ON VARIOUS SUBJECTS, 
 
 AN EPISTLE TO THE QUARTERLY AND MONTHLY 
 MEETINGS OF FRIENDS. 
 
SOME CONSIDERATIONS 
 
 Oir THE 
 
 KEEPING OE NEGROS. 
 
 kECOMMENDED TO THE PROFESSORS OF CHRIS- 
 TIANITY OF EVERY DENOMINATION. 
 
 [First Printed in the year 1754.J 
 
 PART THE FIRST. 
 
 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 Customs generally approved, and opinions received by 
 youth from their superiors, especially when they are suited to 
 favourite inclinations, become like the natural produce of a 
 soil ; but as the judgments of God by vfhich the state of the 
 soul must be tried, are without partiality, it ^yould be the 
 highest wisdom to forego customs and popular opinions, and 
 to try the soul by the infallible standard, truth. 
 
 Natural affection needs a careful examination. Operating 
 upon us in a soft manner, it kindles desires of love and ten- 
 derness, and there is danger of taking it for something higher* 
 
192 
 
 To me it appears an instinct like that which inferior creatures 
 have ; each of them, we see, by the ties of nature, loves 
 self best ; that which is a part of self they love by the same 
 tie or instinct. In them in some measure it does the offices 
 of reason, by which among other things they watchfully 
 keep, and orderly feed their helpless offspring. Thus na- 
 tural affection appears to be a branch of self-love, good in 
 the aninjal race, and iii us likewise with proper limitations ; 
 but otherwise it is productive of evil, by exciting desires to 
 promote some by means prejudicial to others. 
 
 Our blessed Saviour seems to give a check to this irregu- 
 lar fondness in nature, and, at the same time, a precedent foj 
 us : " Who is my mother, and who are my brethren ?" 
 thereby intimating, that the earthly ties of relationship are, 
 comparatively, inconsiderable to those who, through a steady 
 course of obedience, have come to the happy experience of 
 the spirit of God bearing witness with their spirits that they 
 are his children. " And he stretched forth his hand towards 
 his disciples, and said, behold my mother and my brethren : 
 for whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in 
 heaven," arrives at the noble part of true relationship, " the 
 same is my brother, and sister, and mother." . Matt. xii. 49. 
 This doctrine agrees well with a state truly complete, in which 
 love necessarily operates according to the agreeableness. of 
 things, on principles unalterable, and in themselves perfect. 
 
 If endeavouring to have my children eminent among men 
 after my death, be what no reasons grounded on these prin- 
 ciples, can be brought to sup^rt ; to be temperate in my 
 pvirsuit after gain, and to keep always within the bounds of 
 these principles, is then an indispensable duty, and to depart 
 from it, a dark, unfruitful toil. In our present condition, to 
 love our children is needful; but except this love proceeds 
 from the true heavenly principle, which sees beyond earthly 
 
193 
 
 treasures, it will rather be injurious than of any real advan- 
 tage to them. When the fountain is corrupt, the streams 
 must necessarily be impure. 
 
 That important injunction of our Saviour, (Matt., vi. 33.) 
 with the promise annexed, contains a short but comprehen- 
 sive view of our duty and happiness. If it is then the busi- 
 ness of mankind in this life first to seek another ; if this can- 
 not be done but by attending to the means ; if a sum- 
 mary of the means is, not to do that to another which, in like 
 circumstances, we would not have done unto us, these are 
 points of moment, and worthy of our most serious considera- 
 tion. 
 
 I write with reluctance on this subject, and the hints 
 given are in as general terms as my concern will allow. I 
 know it is a point about which, in all its branches, men who 
 appear to aim well are not generally agreed ; and for that 
 reason, I choose to avoid being very particular. If I may 
 happily let drop any thing that may induce those who are 
 concerned in the practice to a close thinking on the subject, 
 the candid among them may easily do it such further justice 
 as, on an impartial inquiry, it may appear to deserve ; and 
 such an inquiry I would earnestly recommend. 
 
SOME 
 
 CONSIDERATIONS, &c. 
 
 " Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my 
 brethren, ye have done it unto me." — Matt. xxv. 40. 
 
 There ai-e often different motives for the same actions ; 
 one person does that from a generous heart, which ano- 
 ther does for selfish ends ; the hke may be said in this 
 case. There are various circumstances among those that keep 
 negros, and different ways by which they fall under their 
 care ; and I doubt not, there are many well-disposed persons 
 among them, who desire rather to manage wisely and justly 
 iu this difficult matter, than to make gain of it. But the dis- 
 advantage which these poor Africans lie vmder, in an enlight- 
 ened Christain country, having often filled me with real 
 sadness, and been like undigested matter on my mind, I now 
 think it my duty, through Divine aid, to offer some thoughts 
 thereon to the consideratioi^ of others. 
 
 When we remember that all nations are of one blood, 
 Gen. iii. 20. that in this world we are but sojourners, that we 
 pre subject to the like afflictions and infirmities of body, 
 the like disorders and frailties of mind, the like temptations, 
 the same death, and the same judgment, and that the allwise 
 
395 
 
 Being is Judge and Lord over us all, it seems to raise an 
 idea of a general brotherhood, and a disposition easy to be 
 touched with a feeling of each other's afflictions; but when 
 we forget these things, and look chiefly at our outward cir- 
 cumstances, in this and some ages past, Constantly retaining 
 in our minds the distinction between us and the negros, with 
 respect to our knowledge and improvement in things divine, 
 natural and artificial, our breasts being apt to be filled with 
 fond notions of superiority, there is danger of erring in our 
 conduct towards them. 
 
 We allow them to be of the same species with ourselves ; 
 the difference is, we are in a higher station, and enjoy greater 
 favours than they. And when our Heavenly Father thus 
 endoweth some of his children with distinguished gifts, they 
 are intended for good ends ; but if those who are thus gifted 
 are thereby lifted up above their brethren, not considering 
 themselves as debtors to the weak, nor behaving themselves as 
 faithful stewards, none who judge impartially can suppose 
 them free from ingratitude. 
 
 When a people dwell under the liberal distribution of 
 favours from heaven, it behoves them carefully to inspect 
 their ways, and to consider the purposes for which those 
 favours were bestowed; lest through forgetfulness of God, and 
 misusing his gifts, they incur his heavy displeasure, whose 
 judgments are just and equal, who exalteth and humbleth to 
 the dust as He sees meet. 
 
 It appears by holy record, that men under high favours 
 have been apt to err in their opinions concerning others. 
 Thus Israel, according to the description of the prophet, 
 though exceedingly corrupted and degenerated, yet remem- 
 bered they were the chosen people of God ; and could say, 
 " Stand by thyself, come not near to me, for I am holier than 
 thou." Isa. Ixv. 5. That this was no chance language, but 
 
 i2 
 
196 
 
 tlieir common opinion of other people, more fiilly appears, by 
 considering the circumstances which attended, when God 
 was beginning to fulfil his precious promises concerning the 
 gathering of the Gentiles. 
 
 The Most High, in a vision, undeceived Peter ; He first 
 prepared his heart to believe ; and at the house of Cornelius, 
 showed him of a certainty that God was no respecter of per- 
 sons. The effusion of the Holy Ghost upon a people, with 
 wliom the Jewish Christians would not so much as eat, was 
 strange to them. All they of the circumcision were astonished 
 to see it ; and the apostles and brethren of Judea contended 
 with Peter about it, till he, having rehearsed the whole mat- 
 ter, and fuUy shown that the Father's love was unlimited, 
 they were struck with admiration, and cried out, "Then 
 hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto 
 life !" 
 
 The opinion of peculiar favours being confined to them, 
 was deeply rooted, or else the above instance had been less 
 strange to them, for the following reasons : First, they were 
 generally acquainted with the writings of the prophets, by 
 whom this time was repeatedly spoken of, and pointed at. 
 Secondly, Our blessed Lord a short time before, had expressly 
 said, " Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold, them 
 also I must bring," &c. Lastly, his words to them after his 
 resurrection, at the very time of his ascension, " Ye shall be 
 witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in 
 Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth." Acts i. 8. 
 These concurring circumstances might have raised a strong 
 expectation of seeing such a time ; yet when it came, it 
 proved matter of offence and astonishment. 
 
 To consider mankind otherwise than brethren, to think 
 favours are peculiar to one nation, to the exclusion of others, 
 plainly supposes a darkness in the miderstanding ; for as 
 
197 
 
 God's lovej^jfciiversal, so when the mind is sufficiently in- 
 fluenced byTHHpbegets a likeness of itself, and the heart is en- 
 larged towards all men. Again, to conclude a people who 
 ungratefully receive favours, and apply them to bad ends, 
 froward, perverse, and worse by nature than others, will excite 
 a behaviour towards them unbecoming the excellence of true 
 religion. 
 
 To prevent such error, let us calmly consider their circum- 
 stances ; and to do it the better, make their case ours. Sup- 
 pose that our ancestors and we had been exposed to constant 
 servitude in the more servile and inferior employments of 
 life ; that we had been destitute of the help of reading and 
 good company ; that among ourselves we had few wise and 
 pious instructors ; that the religious among our superiors 
 seldom took notice of us ; that whUe others, in ease, had 
 plentifully heaped up the fruit of our labour, we had re- 
 ceived barely sufficient to relieve nature ; and being wholly 
 at the command of otliers, had generally been treated as a 
 contemptible, ignorant part of mankind ; should we, in that 
 ccise, be less abject than they now are ? Again, if oppression 
 be so hard to bear, that a wise man is made mad by it, Eccl. 
 vii. 7. then we may reasonably expect that a series of those 
 things would alter the behaviour and manners of a people. 
 
 When our property is taken contrary to our mind, by 
 means appearing to us unjust, it is only through Divine 
 influence, and the enlargement of heart thence proceeding, 
 that we can love our reputed oppressors. If the negros fall 
 short in this, an uneasy, if not a disconsolate disposition, will 
 be awakened, and remain like seeds in their minds, producing 
 sloth and many other habits that appear odious to us ; with 
 which had they been freemen, they perhaps would not have 
 been chargeable. These, and other circumstances rightly 
 considered, will lessen that too great disparity which some 
 make between us and them. 
 
198 
 
 Integrity of heart hath appeared in som^JH^m, so that 
 if we continue in the word of Christ (previoa^oBiscipleship, 
 John viii. 31.) and our conduct towards them be seasoned 
 with his love, we may hope to see the good effect of it ; this 
 is in a good degree, the case with some into whose hands 
 they have fallen ; but that too many treat them otherwise, 
 not seeming conscious of any neglect, is alas ! too evident. 
 
 When self-love presides in our minds, our opinions 
 are biased in our own favour. In this condition, being 
 concerned with a people so situated, that they have no 
 voice to plead their own cause, there is danger of using our- 
 selves to an undisturbed partiality, till by long custom, the 
 mind becomes reconciled to it, and the judgment itself in- 
 fected. 
 
 Humbly to apply to God for wisdom, that we may be 
 enabled to see things as they are, and as they ought to be, is 
 very needful ; hereby the hidden things of darkness may be 
 brought to light, and the judgment made clear ; we shall then 
 consider mankind as brethren. Though different degrees, and 
 a variety of qualifications and abilities, one dependent on 
 another, be admitted : yet high thoughts will be laid aside, 
 and all men will be treated as becometh the sons of one father, 
 agreeably to the doctrine of Christ Jesus, who hath laid down 
 the best criterion, by which mankind ought mutually to 
 judge of their own conduct, and be judged by others, viz. 
 " Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even 
 so to them." I take it that all men by nature are equally enti- 
 tled to the equity of this rule, and are under the indispensa- 
 able obligations of it. One man ought not to look upon another 
 man, or society of men, as so far beneath him that he should 
 not put himself in their place, in all his actions towards them, ' 
 and bring all to this test, viz. " How should I approve of this 
 conduct, were I in their circumstance, and they in mine ?'' 
 A. Arscot's Considerations, p. iii. fol. 107. 
 
199 
 
 This doctrine being of a moral unchangeable nature, hath 
 been likewise inculcated in the former dispensation ; " If a 
 stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him ; 
 but the stranger that dwelleth with you, shall be unto you as 
 one born amongst you, and thou shall love him as thyself;" 
 Lev. xix. 33. 34. Had these people come voluntarily and 
 dwelt among us, to have called them strangers would be pro- 
 per. But their being brought by force, with regret, and a 
 languishing mind, may well raise compassion in a heart 
 rightly disposed ; and there is nothing in such treatment, 
 which on a wise and judicious consideration, will in any 
 wise lessen their right of being treated as strangers. If the 
 treatment which many of them meet with, be rightly exami- 
 ned and compared with these precepts, " Thou shalt not vex 
 him nor oppress him ; he shall be as one born amongst you, 
 and thou shalt love him as thyself;" there will appear an 
 important difference between them. 
 
 It may be objected, there is cost of purchase, and risk of 
 life to them who possess them, and therefore it is needful that 
 they make the best use of their time. In a practice just and 
 reasonable, sueh objections may have weight; but if the 
 work be wrong from the beginning, there is little or no force 
 in them. If I purchase a man who hath never forfeited his 
 liberty, the natural right of freedom is in him ; and shall I 
 keep him and his posterity in servitude and ignorance? 
 " How should I approve of this conduct, were I in his cir- 
 cumstances, and he in mine?" It may be thought, that to 
 treat them as we would willingly be treated, our gain by 
 them would be inconsiderable; and it would be better in 
 divers respects, that there were none in our comitry. 
 
 We may further consider, that they are now among us, 
 and that those of our nation are the cause of their being here ; 
 that whatsoever difficulty accrues therefrom, we are justly 
 
200 
 
 chargeable with it; and to bear all inconveniences attending it, 
 with a serious and weighty concern of mind to do our duty 
 by them, is the best we can do. To seek a remedy by con- 
 tinuing the oppression, because we have power to do so, and 
 see others do it, is, I apprehend, not doing as vre would be 
 done by. 
 
 How deeply soever men are involved in the most exqui- 
 site difficulties, sincerity of heart, and upright walking before 
 God, and freely submitting to his Providence, is the most sure 
 remedy. He only is able to relieve, not only persons but 
 nations in'their greatest calamities. David in a great strait, 
 when the sense of his past error, and the full expectation of an 
 impending calamity as the reward of it, were united to the 
 aggravating of his distress, said after some deliberation, " Let 
 me fall now into the hand of the Lord, for very great are his 
 mercies ; but let me not fall into the hand of man." 
 1 Chron. xxi. 13. 
 
 To act continually with integrity of heart, above all nar- 
 row or selfish motives, is a sure token of our being partakers 
 of that salvation which God hath appointed for walls and 
 bulwarks ; Isaiah, xxvi. 1. and is beyond all contradiction, a 
 more happy situation than can ever be promised by the ut- 
 most reach of art and power united, not proceeding from 
 heavenly wisdom. 
 
 A supply of nature's lawful wants, joined with a peaceful, 
 humble mind, is the truest happiness in this life ; and if we 
 arrive at this, and continue to walk in the path of the just, our 
 case will be truly happy. And though herein we may part 
 with, or miss of some glaring shows of riches, and leave our 
 children little but wise instructions, a good example, and the 
 knowledge of some honest employment ; yet these, with the 
 blessing of Providence, are sufficient for their happiness, and 
 are more likely to promote it, than laying up treasures for 
 
201 
 
 tliem, which are often rather a snare, than any real benefit ; 
 pspecially to those who instead of being exampled to tempe- 
 rance, are in all things taught to prefer the getting of riches 
 as the principle business of this life ; and to covet the tempo- 
 ral distinctions they give. These readily overlook the triie 
 happiness of man, as it results from the enjoyment of all 
 things in the fear of God ; and miserably substituting an in- 
 ferior good, dangerous in the acquiring, and uncertain in the 
 fruition, they are subjected to many disappointments, and 
 every sweet carries its sting. 
 
 It is the conclusion of our blessed Lord and of his apostles, 
 as appears by their lives and doctrines, that the highest de- 
 lights of sense, or the most pleasing visible objects, ought 
 ever to be accounted infinitely inferior to that real intellectual 
 happiness suited to man in his primitive innocence, and now 
 to be found in true renovation of mind : and that the com- 
 forts of our present life, the things most grateful to us, ought 
 always to be received with temperance, and should never be 
 made the chief objects of our desire, hope, or love; but that 
 our whole heart and affections be principally engaged in look- 
 ing to that " city which hath foundations, whose maker and 
 builder is Gnod." Did we so improve the gifts bestowed on 
 us, that our children might have an education suited to these 
 doctrines, and our example to confirm it, we might rejoice in 
 the hope of their being heirs of an inheritance incorruptible. 
 This inheritance, as Christians, we esteem the most valuable ; 
 and how then can we fail to desire it for our children ? that 
 we were consistent with ourselves, in pursuing means neces- 
 sary to obtain it ! 
 
 It appears by experience, that when children are educated 
 in fulness, ease, and idleness, evil habits are more prevalent, 
 than they commonly are among such as are prudently employ- 
 ed in the necessary affairs of life. If children are not only 
 
 i3 
 
202 
 
 educated in tlie way of great temptation, but have also the 
 opportunity of lording it over their fellow-creatures, and 
 being masters of men in their childhood, how can we hope 
 otherwise than that their tender minds will be possessed with 
 thoughts too high for them ; which gaining strength by 
 continuance like a slow current, will gradually separate them 
 from an acquaintance with that humility and meekness in 
 which alone lasting happiness can be enjoyed? 
 
 JIan is born to labour, and experience abundantly showeth 
 that it is for our good ; but when the powerful lay the burden 
 on the inferior, without affording them a Christian education, 
 and suitable opportunity of improving the mind, and such a 
 treatment as we in their case should approve, in order that the 
 powerful may live at ease, fare sumptuously, and lay up riches 
 for their posterity, it seems to contradict the design of Provi- 
 dence, and I doubt is sometimes the effect of a perverted mind. 
 Por while the life of one is made grievous by the rigour of 
 another, it entails misery on both. 
 
 Among the manifold works of Providence, displayed in 
 the different ages of the world, the following, as well as many 
 others, may afford instruction. 
 
 Abraham was called of God' to leave his country and 
 kindred, to sojourn among strangers; through famine, and 
 danger of death, he was forced to flee from one kingdom to 
 another. At length he not only had assurance of being the 
 father of many nations, but became a mighty prince. Gen. 
 xxiii. 6. 
 
 Eemarkable were the dealings of God with Jacob in a low 
 estate ; the just sense he retained of them, after his advance- 
 ment, appears by his words : "I am not worthy of the least of 
 all thy mercies." Gen. xxxii. 10, xlviii. 15. 
 
 The numerous afflictions of Joseph are very singular ; and the 
 particular providence of God therein is no less manifest. He 
 
203 
 
 at length became governor of Egypt, and famous for wisdom 
 and virtue. 
 
 Few among us are ignorant of the series of troubles which 
 David passed through, and yet he afterwards became as one 
 of the great men of the earth. Some evidence of the Divine 
 wisdom appears in these things; some who were intended 
 for high stations, have first been very low and dejected, that 
 truth might be sealed on their hearts; and that the characters 
 there imprinted by bitterness and adversity, might in after 
 years remain, suggesting compassionate ideas, and in their 
 prosperity quicken their regard to those in the like condition ; 
 this further appears in the case of Israel. They were well ac- 
 quainted with grievous sufferings, with a long and rigorous 
 servitude ; and then through many notable events, were made 
 chief among the nations. To them we find a repetition of 
 precepts to the purpose aforesaid ; though, for ends agreeable 
 to infinite wisdom, they were chosen as a peculiar people for a 
 time ; yet the Most High acquaints them that his love is not 
 confined, but extends to the stranger ; and, to excite their 
 compassion, reminds them of times past; "Ye were strangers 
 in the land of Egypt." Deut. x. 19. Again, " Thou shalt 
 not oppress a stranger, for ye know the heart of a stranger, 
 seeing ye were strangers in the land of Egypt." Exod. 
 xxiii, 9. 
 
 If we call to mind our beginning, some of us may find a 
 time wherein our fathers were under afflictions, reproaches, 
 and manifold sufferings. Respecting our progress in this 
 land, the time is short since our beginning was small and our 
 number few, compared with the native inhabitants. He that 
 sleeps not by day nor by night, hath watched over us, and 
 kept us as the apple of his eye. His Almighty arm hath been 
 round about us, and hath saved us from dangers. 
 
 The wilderness and solitary deserts in which our fithers 
 
204 
 
 passed the days of their pilgrimage, arc now turned into 
 pleasant fields ; the natives are gone from before us, and we 
 are peaceably established in the possession of the land, enjoy- 
 ing our civil and religious liberties ; and while many parts of 
 the world have groaned under the heavy calamities of war, 
 our habitation remains quiet, and our land fruitful. 
 
 When we trace back the steps we have trodden, and 
 see how the Lord hath opened a way for us in the wilderness, 
 it will easily appear to the wise, that all this was not done to 
 be buried in oblivion ; but to prepare a people for more fruit- 
 ful returns ; the remembrance thereof ought to humble us in 
 prosperity, and to excite in us a Christian benevolence to- 
 wards our inferiors. 
 
 If we do not consider these things aright, but, through a 
 stupid indolence, conceive views of interest separate from the . 
 general good of the great brotherhood, and in pursuance 
 thereof, treat our inferiors with rigour to increase our wealth, 
 and gain riches for our children; what shall we do "when 
 God riseth up ; and when he visiteth, what shall we answer 
 Him ? Did not He that made us make them ; and did not one 
 fashion us in the womb ?" Job xxxi, 13, 14. To our great 
 Master we stand or fall, to judge or condemn us as is most 
 suitable to his wisdom or authority. My inclination is to per- 
 suade, and intreat, and simply give hints of my way of 
 thinking. 
 
 If the Christian religion be considered, both with regard 
 to its doctrines, and the happy influence which it hath on the 
 minds and manners of all real Christians, it is reasonable to 
 think, that the miraculous manifestation thereof to the world, 
 is a kindness beyond expression. Are we the people thus fa- 
 voured ■? are we they whose minds are opened, influenced 
 and governed by the Spirit of Christ, and thereby made sons 
 of God ? Is it not a fair conclusion that we, like our heavenly 
 
205 
 
 Father, ought in our degree to be active ia the same great 
 cause — the eternal happiness of our whole families, at least, 
 and more if thereto capaciated ? 
 
 If we, by the operation of the Spirit of Christ, become 
 heirs with him in the kingdom of his Father, and are redeemed 
 from the alluring counterfeit joys of this world, and the joy 
 of Christ remain in us, it seems a contradiction to suppose 
 that one remaining in this happy condition, can, for the sake 
 of earthly riches, not only deprive his fellow- creatures of the 
 sweetness of freedom, (which rightly used, is one of the 
 greatest temporal blessings) but also neglect to use proper 
 means for their acquaintance, with the Holy Scriptures, and 
 the advantage of true religion. 
 
 Whoever rightly advocates the cause of some, thereby 
 promotes the good of all. The state of mankiM was harmo- 
 nious in the beginning ; and though sin hath introduced dis- 
 cord, yet through the wonderful love of God in Christ Jesus 
 our Lord, the way is open for our redemption, and means 
 are appointed to restore us to primitive harmony : so that if 
 one suffer by the unfaithfulness of another, the mind, the 
 most noble part of him that occasions the discord, is thereby 
 alienated from its true and real happiness. 
 
 Our duty and interest are inseparably united, and when we 
 neglect or misuse our talents, we necessarily depart from the 
 heavenly fellowship, and are in the way to the greatest of evils. 
 Therefore to examine and prove ourselves, to find what har- 
 mony the power presiding in us bears with the Divine nature, 
 is a duty not more incumbent and necessary, than it is bene- 
 ficial. 
 
 In Holy Writ the Divine Being saith of Himself, " I 
 am the Lord, which exercise loving-kindness, judgment, 
 and righteousness, in the earth : for in these things I 
 delight, saith the Lord." Jer. ix. 24. Again, speaking in 
 
200 
 
 the way of man, to show his compassion to Israel, who 
 were then humhled under a calamity, occasioned by their 
 wickedness, it is said. His soul was grieved for their 
 miseries. Judges x. 16. If we consider the life of our 
 blessed Saviour when on earth, as it is recorded by his follow- 
 ers, we shall find, that one uniform desire for the eternal and 
 temporal good of mankind, discovered itself in all his ac- 
 tions. 
 
 If we observe men, both apostles and others, in many 
 different ages, who have really come to the unity of the Spirit 
 and the fellowship of the saints, we sliall still find the like 
 disposition ; and that the desire of the real happiness of 
 mankind, has in them out-balanced the desire of ease, liberty, 
 and many times of life itself. If upon a true search, we find 
 that our natp-es are so far renewed, that to exercise righte- 
 ousness and loving-kindness, according to our ability, to- 
 wards all men, without respect of persons, is easy to us, or is 
 our delight; if our love be so orderly and regular, that he 
 who doeth the will of our Father who is in heaven, appears in 
 our view to be our nearest relation, our brother, and sister, 
 and mother ; if this be our case, there is a good foundation 
 to hope, that the blessing of God will sweeten our treasures 
 during our stay in this life, and that our memory will be sa- 
 voury when we are entered into rest. 
 
 To conclude, it is a truth most certain, that a life guided 
 by wisdom from above, agreeable with justice, equity, and 
 mercy, is throughout consistent and amiable, and truly bene- 
 ficial to society ; the serenity and calmness of mind which 
 attend it, affords an unparalleled comfort in this life, and the 
 end of it is blessed. And it is no less true that they who, in 
 the midst of high favours, remain ungrateful, and under all 
 the advantages that a Christian can desire, are selfish, earthly, 
 and sensual, do miss the true fountain of happiness, and wan- 
 
207 
 
 der in a maze of dark anxiety, in which all their treasures are 
 insufficient to quiet their minds. Hence, from an insatiable 
 craving, they neglect doing good with what they have ac- 
 quired, and too often add oppression to vanity, that they may 
 compass more. " that they were wise, that they understood 
 this, that they would consider their latter end!" Dent, 
 xxxii. 29. 
 
210 
 
 with true patience, endured many sufferings on that account. 
 Great numbers of faithful Protestants have contended for the 
 truth, in opposition to papal errors ; and, with true fortitude, 
 have laid down their lives in the conflict, without saying, 
 that no man was saved who made profession of that religion. 
 
 While we have no right to keep men as servants for term 
 of life, but that of superior power; to do this, with a de- 
 sign to profit ourselves and our families, by their labour, is I 
 believe wrong; but I do not believe that all who have kept 
 slaves, have therefore been chargeable with guilt. If their 
 motives were free from selfishness, and their slaves content, 
 they were a sort of^reemen ; which I believe hath sometimes 
 been the case. 
 
 Whatever a man does in the, spirit of charity, to him it is 
 not sin ; and while he lives and acts in this spirit, he learns 
 all things essentiaLto his happiness as an individual : and if 
 he dolh not see that any injury or injustice to any other per- 
 son, is necessarily promoted by any part of his form of govern- 
 ment, I believe the merciful Judge will not lay iniquity to his 
 charge. Yet others, who live in the same spirit of charity, 
 from a clear convincement, may see the relation of one thing 
 to another, and the necessary tendency of each ; and hence it 
 may be absolutely binding on them to desist from some parts 
 of conduct, which some good men have pursued. 
 
CONSIDEEATIONS, kc. 
 
 " Ye shall not respect persons in judgment ; but ye shall hear 
 the small as well as the great ; ye shall- not be afraid of the face of 
 man; for the judgment is God's !" — Deut. i. 17. 
 
 As some in most religious societies among the English, 
 are concerned in importing or purchasing the inhabitants of 
 Africa as slaves, and as the professors of Christianity of seve- 
 ral other nations do the like ; these circumstances tend to 
 make people less apt to examine the practice so closely as 
 they would if such a thing had not hitherto been, but was 
 now for the first time proposed^ It is however our individual 
 duty, as creatures accountable to our Creator, to employ 
 rightly the understanding which He hath given us, in humbly 
 endeavouring to be acquainted with his will concerning us, 
 and with the nature and tendency of those things which we 
 practise : for so long as justice remains in the world, so many 
 people of reputation being engaged with wrong things, is no 
 excuse for others joining with them, nor does it make the 
 consequence of their proceedings less dreadful in the final 
 issue, than it would otherwise be. 
 
 When unrighteousness is justified from one age to another, 
 it is like dark matter gathering into clouds over us. We may 
 
200 
 
 chargeable with it; and to bear all inconveniences attending it, 
 with a serious and weighty concern of mind to do our duty 
 by them, is the best we can do. To seek a remedy by con- 
 tinuing the oppression, because we have power to do so, and 
 see others do it, is, I apprehend, not doing as we would be 
 done by. 
 
 How deeply soever men are involved in the most exqui- 
 site difficulties, sincerity of heart, and upright walking before 
 God, and freely submitting to his Providence, is the most sure 
 remedy. He only is able to relieve, not only persons but 
 nations in-their greatest calamities. David in a great strait, 
 when the sense of his past error, and the full expectation of an 
 impending calamity as the reward of it, were united to the 
 aggravating of his distress, said after some deliberation, " Let 
 me fall now into the band of the Lord, for very great are his 
 mercies ; but let me not fall into the hand of man." 
 1 Chron. xxi. 13. 
 
 To act continually with integrity of heart, above all nar- 
 row or selfish motives, is a sure token of our being partakers 
 of that salvation which God hath appointed for walls and 
 bulwarks; Isaiah, xxvi. I. and is beyond all contradiction, a 
 more happy situation than can ever be promised by the ut- 
 most reach of art and power united, not proceeding from 
 heavenly wisdom. 
 
 A supply of nature's lawful wants, joined with a peaceful, 
 humble mind, is the truest happiness in this life ; and if we 
 arrive at this, and continue to walk in the path of the just, our 
 case will be truly happy. And though herein we may part 
 with, or miss of some glaring shows of riches, and leave our 
 children little but wise instructions, a good example, and the 
 knowledge of some honest employment ; yet these, with the 
 blessing of Providence, are sufficient for their happiness, and 
 are more likely to promote it, than laying up treasures for 
 
201 
 
 tliem, which are often rather a snare, than any real benefit ; 
 pspecially to those who instead of being exampled to tempe- 
 rance, are in all things taught to prefer the getting of riches 
 as the principle business of this life ; and to covet the tempo- 
 ral distinctions they give. These readily overlook the true 
 happiness of man, as it results from the enjoyment of all 
 things in the fear of God ; and miserably substituting an in- 
 ferior good, dangerous in the acquiring, and uncertain in the 
 fruition, they are subjected to many disappointments, and 
 every sweet carries its sting. 
 
 It is the conclusion of our blessed Lord and of his apostles, 
 as appears by their lives and doctrines, that the highest de- 
 lights of sense, or the most pleasing visible objects, ought 
 ever to be accounted infinitely inferior to that real intellectual 
 happiness suited to man in his primitive innocence, and now 
 to be found in true renovation of mind : and that the com- 
 forts of our present life, the things most grateful to us, ought 
 always to be received with temperance, and should never be 
 made the chief objects of our desire, hope, or love; but that 
 our whole heart and afiBCtions be principally engaged in look- 
 ing to that " city which hath foundations, whose maker and 
 builder is G-Dd." Did we so improve the gifts bestowed on 
 us, that our children might have an education suited to these 
 doctrines, and our example to confirm it, we might rejoice in 
 the hope of their being heirs of an inheritance incorruptible. 
 This inheritance, as Christians, we esteem the most valuable ; 
 and how then can we fail to desire it for our children ? that 
 we were consistent with ourselves, in pursuing means neces- 
 sary to obtain it ! 
 
 It appears by experience, that when children are educated 
 in fulness, ease, and idleness, evil habits are more prevalent, 
 than they commonly are among such as are prudently employ- 
 ed in the necessary affairs of life. If children are not only 
 
 i3 
 
202 
 
 educated in the way of great temptation, but have also the 
 opportunity of lording it over their fellow-creatures, and 
 being masters of men in their childhood, how can we hope 
 otherwise than that their tender minds will be possessed with 
 thoughts too high for them ; which gaining strength by 
 continuance like a slow current, will gradually separate them 
 from an acquaintance with that humility and meekness in 
 which alone lasting happiness can be enjoyed? 
 
 Man is born to labour, and experience abundantly showeth 
 that it is for our good ; but when the powerful lay the burden 
 on the inferior, without affording them a Christian education, 
 and suitable opportunity of improving the mind, and such a 
 treatment as we in their case should approve, in order that the 
 powerful may live at ease, fare sumptuously, and lay up riches 
 for their posterity, it seems to contradict the design of Provi- 
 dence, and I doubt is sometimes the effect of a perverted mind. 
 For while the life of one is made grievous by the rigour of 
 another, it entails misery on both. 
 
 Among the manifold works of Providence, displayed in 
 the different ages of the world, the following, as well as many 
 others, may afford instruction. 
 
 Abraham was called of God' to leave his country and 
 kindred, to sojourn among strangers; through famine, and 
 danger of death, he was forced to flee from one kingdom to 
 another. At length he not only had assurance of being the 
 father of many nations, but became a mighty prince. Gen. 
 xxiii. 6. 
 
 Eemarkable were the dealings of God with Jacob in a low 
 estate; the just sense he retained of them, after his advance- 
 ment, appears by his words : " I am not worthy of the least of 
 all thy mercies." Gen. xxxii. 10, xlviii. 15. 
 
 The numerous afflictions of Joseph are very singular; and the 
 particular providence of God therein is no less manifest. He 
 
203 
 
 at length became governor of Egypt, and faoiou,? for wisdom 
 and virtue. 
 
 Few among us are ignorant of the series of troubles which 
 David passed through, and yet he afterwards became as one 
 of the great men of the earth. Some evidence of the Divine 
 wisdom appears in these things; some who were intended 
 for high stations, have first been very low and dejected, that 
 truth might be sealed on their hearts; and that the characters 
 there imprinted by bitterness and adversity, might in after 
 years remain, suggesting compassionate ideas, and in their 
 prosperity quicken their regard to those in the like condition ; 
 this further appears in the case of Israel. They were well ac- 
 quainted with grievous suflFerings, with a long and rigorous 
 servitude; and then through many notable events, were made 
 chief among the nations. To them we find a repetition of 
 precepts to the purpose aforesaid ; though, for ends agreeable 
 to infinite wisdom, they were chosen as a peculiar people for a 
 time ; yet the Most High acquaints them that his love is not 
 confined, but extends to the stranger ; and, to excite their 
 compassion, reminds them of times past; "Ye were strangers 
 in the land of Egypt." Deut. x. 19. Again, "Thou shalt 
 not oppress a stranger, for ye know the heart of a stranger, 
 seeing ye were strangers in the land of Egypt." Exod. 
 xxiii, 9. 
 
 If we call to mind our beginning, some of us may find a 
 time wherein our fathers were under afflictions, reproaches, 
 and manifold sufferings. Respecting our progress in this 
 land, the time is short since our beginning was small and our 
 number few, compared with the native inhabitants. He that 
 sleeps not by day nor by night, hath watched over us, and 
 kept us as the apple of his eye. His Almighty arm hath been 
 round about us, and hath saved us from dangers. 
 
 The wilderness and solitary deserts in which our fathers 
 
204 
 
 passed the days of their pilgrimage, are now turned into 
 pleasant fields; the natives are gone from before us, and we 
 are peaceably established in the possession of the land, enjoy- 
 ing our civil and religious liberties ; and while many parts of 
 the world have groaned under the heavy calamities of war, 
 our habitation remains quiet, and our land fruitful. 
 
 When we trace back the steps we have trodden, and 
 see how the Lord hath opened a way for us in the wilderness, 
 it will easily appear to the wise, that all this was not done to 
 be buried in oblivion ; but to prepare a people for more fruit- 
 ful returns ; the remembrance thereof ought to humble us in 
 prosperity, and to excite in us a Christian benevolence to- 
 wards our inferiors. 
 
 If we do not consider these things aright, but, through a 
 stupid indolence, conceive views of interest separate from the 
 general good of the great brotherhood, and in pursuance 
 thereof, treat our inferiors with rigour to increase our wealth, 
 and gain riches for our children; what shall we do "when 
 God riseth up ; and when he visiteth, what shall we answer 
 Him ? Did not He that made us make them ; and did not one 
 fashion us in the womb ?" Job xxxi, 13, 14. To our great 
 Master we stand or fall, to judge or condemn us as is most 
 suitable to his wisdom or authority. My inclination is to per- 
 suade, and intreat, and simply give hints of my way of 
 thinking. 
 
 If the Christian religion be considered, both with regard 
 to its doctrines, and the happy influence which it hath on the 
 minds and manners of all real Christians, it is reasonable to 
 think, that the miraculous manifestation thereof to the world, 
 is a kindness beyond expression. Are we the people thus fa- 
 voured ■? are we they whose minds are opened, influenced 
 and governed by the Spirit of Christ, and thereby made sons 
 of God ? Is it not a fair conclusion that we, like our heavenly 
 
205 
 
 Father, ought in our degree to be active in the same great 
 cause — the eternal happiness of our whole families, at least, 
 and more if thereto capaciated ? 
 
 If we, by the operation of the Spirit of Christ, become 
 heirs with him in the kingdom of his Father, and are redeemed 
 from the alluring counterfeit joys of this world, and the joy 
 of Christ remain in us, it seems a contradiction to suppose 
 that one remaining in this happy condition, can, for the sake 
 of earthly riches, not only deprive his fellow- creatures of the 
 sweetness of freedom, (which rightly used, is one of the 
 greatest temporal blessings) but also neglect to use proper 
 means for their acquaintance, with the Holy Scriptures, and 
 the advantage of true religion. 
 
 Whoever rightly advocates the cause of some, thereby 
 promotes the good of all. The state of mankir^ was harmo- 
 nious in the beginning; and though sin hath introduced dis- 
 cord, yet through the wonderful love of God in Christ Jesus 
 our Lord, the way is open for our redemption, and means 
 are appointed to restore us to primitive harmony : so that if 
 one suffer by the unfaithfulness of another, the mind, the 
 most noble part of him that occasions the discord, is thereby 
 alienated from its true and real happiness. 
 
 Our duty and interest are inseparably united, and when we 
 neglect or misuse our talents, we necessarily depart from the 
 heavenly fellowship, and are in the way to the greatest of evils. 
 Therefore to examine and prove ourselves, to find what har- 
 mony the power presiding in us bears with the Divine nature, 
 is a duty not more incumbent and necessary, than it is bene- 
 ficial. 
 
 In Holy Writ the Divine Being saith of Himself, " I 
 am the Lord, which ■ exercise loving-kindness, judgment, 
 and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I 
 delight, saith the Lord." Jer. ix. 24. Again, speaking in 
 
200 
 
 the way of man, lo show his compassion to Israel, who 
 were then humbled under a calamity, occasioned by their 
 wickedness, it is said. His soul was grieved for their 
 miseries. Judges x. 16. If we consider the life of onr 
 blessed Saviour when on earth, as it is recorded by his follow- 
 ers, we shall find, that one uniform desire for the eternal and 
 temporal good of mankind, discovered itself in all his ac- 
 tions. 
 
 If we observe men, both apostles and others, in many 
 different ages, who have really come to the unity of the Spirit 
 and the fellowship of the saints, we shall still find the like 
 disposition ; and that the desire of the real happiness of 
 mankind, has in them out-balanced the desire of ease, liberty, 
 and many times of life itself. If upon a true search, we find 
 that our natj^es are so far renewed, that to exercise righte- 
 ousness and loving-kindness, according to our ability, to- 
 wards all men, without respect of persons, is easy to us, or is 
 our delight; if our love be so orderly and regular, that he 
 who doeth the will of our Father who is in heaven, appears in 
 our view to be our nearest relation, our brother, and sister, 
 and mother ; if this be our case, there is a good foundation 
 to hope, that the blessing of God will sweeten our treasures 
 during our stay in this life, and that our memory will be sa- 
 voury when we are entered into rest. 
 
 To conclude, it is a truth most certain, that a life guided 
 by wisdom from above, agreeable with justice, equity, and 
 mercy, is throughout consistent and amiable, and truly bene- 
 ficial to society ; the serenity and calmness of mind which 
 attend it, affords an imparalleled comfort in this life, and the 
 end of it is blessed. And it is no less true that they who, in 
 the midst of high favours, remain ungrateful, and under all 
 the advantages that a Christian can desire, are selfish, earthly, 
 and sensual, do miss the tnie fountain of happiness, and wan- 
 
207 
 
 der in a maze of dark anxiety, in which all their treasures are 
 insufficient to quiet their minds. Hence, from an insatiable 
 craving, they neglect doing good with what they have ac- 
 quired, and too often add oppression to vanity, that they may 
 compass more. " that they were wise, that they understood 
 this, that they would consider their latter end!" Deut. 
 xxxii. 2.9. 
 
CONSIDERATIONS 
 
 ON THE 
 
 KEEPING OF NEGROS, 
 
 RECOMMENDED TO THE PROFESSORS OF CHRISTIANITY 
 OF EVERY DENOMINATION. 
 
 [^First printed in tlie Year 1762. J 
 
 PART THE SECOND. 
 
 PREFACE. 
 
 All our actions are of the like nature with their root ; and 
 the Most High weigheth them more skilfully than men can 
 weigh them one for another. I believe that one Supreme 
 Being made and supports the world ; nor can I worship any 
 other Deity without being an idolater, and guilty of wicked- 
 ness. 
 
 Many nations have believed in, and worshipped, a plu- 
 rality of deities ; bub I do not believe they were therefore all 
 wicked. Idolatry indeed is wickedness ; but it is the thing, 
 not the name, which is so. Real idolatry is to pay that ado- 
 ration to a creature, which is known to be due only to the 
 true God. 
 
209 
 
 lie who professeth to believe in one Almighty Creator, 
 and in his son Jesus Christ, and is yet more intent on the 
 honours, profits, and friendships of the world, than he is, in 
 singleness of heart, to stand faithful to the Christian religion, 
 is in the channel of idolatry ; while the Gentile, who not- 
 withstanding some mistaken opinions, is established in the 
 true principle of virtue, and humbly adores an Almighty 
 power, may be of that number who fear God, and work right- 
 eousness. 
 
 I believe the bishop of Rome assumes a power that does 
 not belong to any officer in the church of Christ ; and if I 
 should knowingly do any thing tending to strengthen him in 
 that capacity, it would be great iniquity. There are many 
 thousands of people who, by their profession, acknowledge 
 him to be the representative of Jesus Christ on earth ; and 
 to say that none of them are upright in heart, would be con- 
 trary to my sentiments. « 
 
 Men who sincerely apply their minds to true virtue, and 
 find an inward support from above, by which all vicious in- 
 clinations are made subject; who love God sincerely^ and 
 prefer the real good of mankind universally to their own pri- 
 vate interest ; though these, through the strength of educa- 
 tion and tradition, may remain under some great speculative 
 errors, it would be uncharitable to say, that therefore God 
 rejects them. The knowledge and goodness of Him, who 
 creates, supports, and gives understanding to all men, are su- 
 perior to the various states and circumstances of his crea- 
 tures, which to us appear the most difficult. 
 
 The apostles and primitive Christians did not censure all 
 the Gentiles as wicked men, Rom. ii. 14. ; Col. iii. 11. ; but 
 as they were favoured with a gift to discern thmgs more 
 clearly, respecting the worship of the true God, with much 
 firmness they declared against the worshipping of idols ; and 
 
210 
 
 with true patience, endured many sufferings on that account. 
 Great numbers of faithful Protestants have contended for the 
 truth, in opposition to papal errors ; and, with true fortitude, 
 have laid down their lives in the conflict, without saying, 
 that no man was saved who made profession of that religion. 
 
 While we have no right to keep men as servants for term 
 of life, but that of superior power; to do this, with a de- 
 sign to profit ourselves and our families, by their labour, is I 
 believe wrong; but I do not believe that all who have kept 
 slaves, have therefore been chargeable with guilt. If their 
 motives were free from selfishness, and their slaves content, 
 they were a sort offreemen ; which I believe hath sometimes 
 been the case. 
 
 Whatever a man does in the spirit of charity, to him it is 
 not sin ; and while he lives and acts in this spirit, he learns 
 all things essential to his happiness as an individual : and if 
 he do^i not see that any injury or injustice to any other per- 
 son, is necessarily promoted by any part of his form of govern- 
 ment, I believe the merciful Judge will not lay iniquity to his 
 charge. Yet others, who live in the same spirit of charity, 
 from a clear convincement, may see the relation of one thing 
 to another, and the necessary tendency of each ; and hence it 
 may be absolutely binding on them to desist from some parts 
 of conduct, which some good men have pursued. 
 
CONSIDERATIONS, &c. 
 
 "Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear 
 the small as well as the great ; ye shall" not be afraid of the face of 
 man; for the judgment is God's !"—Deut. i. 17. 
 
 As some in most religious societies among the English, 
 are concerned in importing or purchasing the inhabitants of 
 Africa as slaves, and as the professors of Christianity of seve- 
 ral other nations do the like ; these circumstances tend to 
 make people less apt to examine the practice so closely as 
 they would if such a thing had not hitherto been, but was 
 now for the first time proposed^ It is however our individual 
 duty, as creatures accountable to our Creator, to employ 
 rightly the understanding which He hath given us, in humbly 
 endeavouring to be acquainted with his will concerning us, 
 and with the nature and tendency of those things which we 
 practise : for so long as justice remains in the world, so many 
 people of reputation being engaged with wrong things, is no 
 excuse for others joining with them, nor does it make the 
 consequence of their proceedings less dreadful in the final 
 issue, than it would otherwise be. 
 
 When unrighteousness is justified from one age to another, 
 it is like dark matter gathering into clouds over its. We may 
 
212 
 
 know that this gloom will remain till the cause be removed by 
 a reformation, or change of times ; and we may feel a desire, 
 from a love of equity, to speak on the occasion ; yet when 
 error is so strong that it may not be spoken against without 
 some prospect of inconvenience to the speaker, this difficulty 
 is likely to operate on our weakness, and to quench the good 
 desii'e in us ; except we dwell so steadily under the weight 
 of it, as to be made willing to " endure hardness" on that 
 account. 
 
 When men exert their talents against vices, generally ac- 
 counted such, the ill effects whereof are presently perceived in 
 a government, all who regard their own temporal good, are 
 likely to approve the work. But when that which is incon- 
 sistent with perfect equity, hath the law or countenance of 
 the great in its favour, though the tendency thereof be con- 
 trary to the true happiness of mankind, in an equal if not a 
 greater degree than many things accounted reproachful to. 
 Christians ; yet, as these iH effects are not generally perceived, 
 they who labour to dissuade from those things, which people 
 believe accord with their interest, have many difficulties to 
 encounter. 
 
 The repeated charges which God gave to his prophets, im- 
 ply the danger they were in of erring on this hand. " Be not 
 afraid of their faces ; for I am with thee, to deliver thee, saith 
 the Lord." — Jer. i. 8. " Speak all the words that I command 
 thee to speak to them ; diminish not a word." — Jer. xxvi. 2. 
 " And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, nor dismayed 
 at their looks. Speak my words to them, whether they will 
 hear or whether they will forbear." — Ezek. ii. 6, 7. 
 
 Under an apprehension of duty, I offer some further con- 
 siderations on this subject, having endeavoured some years to 
 consider it candidly. I have observed people of our own co- 
 lour, whose abilities have been unequal to the management of 
 
213 
 
 the affairs which relate to their convenient subsistence, taken 
 care of by others, and the profit of such work as they could 
 do, applied towards their support. I believe there are such 
 among negros ; and that some people, in whose hands they 
 are, keep them with no view of outward profit, do not consi- 
 der them as black men, who, as such, ought to serve white 
 men ; but account them persons who have need of guardians, 
 and as such take care of them : yet, where equal care is ta- 
 ken to educate both classes, I do not apprehend cases of this 
 sort are likely to occur more frequently among one sort of 
 people than another. 
 
 It appears to me that ihe slave trade was founded, and hath 
 generally been carried on, in a wrong spirit ; that the effects 
 of it are detrimental to the real prosperity of our country ; 
 and will become more so, except we cease from the common 
 motives for keeping them, and treat them in future agreeably 
 to truth and pure justice. 
 
 Negros may be imported, who, for their cruelty to their 
 countrymen, and the evil disposition of their minds, may be 
 unfit to be at liberty ; and if we, as lovers of righteousness, 
 undertake the management of them, we should have a full 
 and clear knowledge of their crimes, and of those circum- 
 stances which might operate in their favour ; but the diflSculty 
 of obtaining this is so great, that we have great reason to be 
 cautious therein. But, should it plainly appear, that absolute 
 subjection is a condition the most proper for the person pur- 
 chased, yet the innocent children ought not to be made slaves 
 because their parents sinned. 
 
 We read in Holy Scripture of some families suffering, 
 where mention is only made of the heads of the family com- 
 mitting wickedness ; and it is likely that the degenerate Jews, 
 misunderstanding some occurrences of this kind, took occa- 
 sion to charge God with being unequal ; so that a saying be- 
 
214 
 
 came common, " The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the 
 children's teeth are set on edge." Jeremiah and Ezekiel, two 
 of the inspired prophets, who lived near the same time, were 
 cbncerned to correct this error. Ezekiel enlarges on the sub- 
 ject. First he reproves them for their error. " What mean ye, 
 that ye do so," chap, xviii. verse 2. " As I live saith the Lord 
 God, ye shall not have occasion any more to use this proverb 
 in Israel." The words " any more" have reference to time past; 
 intimating, that though they had not rightly understood some 
 tilings they had heard or seen, and thence supposed the proverb 
 to be well grounded ; yet henceforth they might know of a cer- 
 tainty, that the ways of God are all equal ; that as sure as the 
 Most High liveth, so sure men are only answerable for their 
 own sins. He thus sums up the matter. " The soul that 
 sinneth it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the 
 father ; neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son. 
 The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him ; and the 
 wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him." v. 20. 
 
 Wicked men are commonly a means of corrupting the suc- 
 ceeding age ; and thereby of hastening those outward calami- 
 ties, which fall on nations, when their iniquities are full. Men 
 may pursue means which are not agreeable to perfect purity, 
 with a view to increase the wealth and happiness of their off- 
 spring, and may thereby make the way of virtue more diffi- 
 cult to them. And though the ill example of a parent, or a 
 multitude, does not excuse a man in doing evil, )'et the mind 
 being early impressed with vicious notions and practices, and 
 nurtured up in w^ays of getting treasure, which are not the ways 
 of truth ; this wrong spirit by being strengthened and first get- 
 ting possession, frequently prevents due attention to the true 
 spirit of wisdom, so that they exceed in wickedness those 
 who lived before them. And though parents labour, and 
 
•ilo 
 
 it proves a means of forwarding their calamity. This being 
 the case in the age preceding the grievous calamities in the 
 siege of Jerusalem, and carrying Judah captive to Bahylon, 
 they might say with propriety, this came upon us because 
 our fathers forsook God, and because we did worse than 
 our fathers. See Jer. vii. 26. 
 
 As the generation preceding them inwardly turned away 
 from God, who yet waited to be gracious ; and as they in the 
 succeeding age, continued in those things which necessarily 
 separated from perfect goodness, growing more stubborn, till 
 the judgments of God were pt>ured upon them ; they might 
 properly say, " Our fathers have sinned, and we have bonie 
 their iniquities. " Lam. v. 7. And yet wicked as their 
 fathers were, ^d they not succeeded them in their wicked- 
 ness, they had not borne their iniquities. 
 
 To suppose that an innocent man shall at this day be ex- 
 cluded from the common rules of justice ; be deprived of 
 that liberty, which is the natural right of human creatures ; 
 and be a slave to others during life, on account of a sin com- 
 mitted by his immediate parents, or by Ham, the son of Noah ; 
 is a supposition too gross to be admitted into the mind of any 
 person who sincerely desires to be governed by solid prin- 
 ciples. 
 
 It is alleged, in favour of the practice, that Joshua made 
 slaves of the Gibeonites. What men do by the command of 
 God, and what comes to pass as a consequence of their neg- 
 lect, as in the latter case, are different. It was the express 
 command of the Almighty to Israel, concerning the inhabit- 
 ants of the promised land, " Thou shalt make no covenant 
 with them, nor with their gods : they shall not dwell in thy 
 land." — Exod. xxiii. 32, 33. The Gibeonites came craftily, 
 telling Joshua, that they were come from a far country ; that 
 their elders had sent them to make a league with the people 
 
216 
 
 of Israel ; and as an evidence of their being foreigners, show- 
 ed their old clothes, &c. " And the men took of their 
 victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the Lord ; 
 and Joshua made peace with them, and made a league with 
 them, to let them live ; and the princes of the congregation 
 ~sware unto them." — Josh. ix. 14, 15. 
 
 When the imposition was discovered, the congregation 
 murmured against the princes : " But all the princes said im- 
 to all the congregation, we have sworn unto them by the Lord 
 God of Israel ; now, therefore, we may not touch them ; we 
 will even let them live, lest wrath be upon us ; but let them 
 be hewers of wood, and drawers of water unto all the congre- 
 gation." Omitting to ask counsel, involved them in great 
 difficulty. The Gibeonites were of those citi^ of which the 
 Lord said, "Thou shalt save alive nothing that bmAheth ;" 
 and of the stock of the Hivites, concerning whom he com- 
 manded by name, " Thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy 
 them." Thus Joshua and the princes unwittingly had made a 
 league with them, to let them live ; and in this strait they 
 resolve to make them servants. Joshua and the princes sus- 
 pected them to be deceivers : " Peradventure you dwell among 
 us; and how shall we make a league with jrou ? " Which 
 words show that they remembered the command before men- 
 tioned ; and yet did not inquire at the mouth of the Lord, as 
 Moses directed Joshua, when he gave him a charge respect- 
 ing his duty as chief man among that people. Numb, xxvii. 
 21. By this omission things became so situated, that Joshua 
 and the princes could not execute the judgments of God on 
 the Gibeonites, without violating the oath which they had 
 made. ' 
 
 Moses transgressed at the waters of Meribah ; and doubt- 
 less he soon repented ; foPthe Lord was with him. And it 
 is likely that Joshua was deeply humbled, under a sense of 
 
217 
 
 his omission; for it appears that God continued him in his 
 office, and spared the lives of those people, for the sake of the 
 league and oath made in his name 
 
 The wickedness of these people was great, and they were 
 worthy to die, or perfect justice would not have passed sentence 
 of death on them; and as their execution was prevented by 
 this league and oath, they were, it appears, content to be ser- 
 vants: "As it seemeth good and right unto thee to do unto 
 us, do." Instead of death, these criminals had the sentence 
 of servitude pronounced on them, in these words: "Now 
 therefore ye are cursed ; and there shall none of you be freed 
 from being bondmen, and hewers of wood and drawers of 
 water for the house of my God." 
 
 We find, Deut. xx. 10, that there were cities far distant 
 from Canaan, against which Israel went to battle; unto which 
 they were to proclaim peace, and if the inhabitants made an- 
 swer of peace, and opened their gates, they were not to des- 
 troy them, but to make them tributaries. The children of Israel 
 were then the Lord's host, and the executioners of his judg- 
 ments on people hardened in wickedness. They were not to go 
 to battle, but by his appointment. The men who were chief in 
 his army, had their instruction from the Almighty ; sometimes 
 immediately, and sometimes by the ministry of angels. Of 
 these, among others were Moses, Joshua, Othniel, and Gid- 
 eon ; see Exod. iii. 2, and xviii. 19. Josh. v. 13. Those 
 people far off from Canaan, against whom Israel was sent to 
 battle, were so corrupt, that the Creator of the universe saw 
 it good to change their situation ; and their subjection, 
 though probably more mild than absolute slavery, was to last 
 little or no longer than while Israel remained in the true spirit 
 of government. 
 
 It was pronounced by Moses, the prophet, as a consequence 
 of their wickedness, " The stranger that is within thee shall 
 
 K 
 
213 
 
 get up above tliee very high ; and thou shalt come down 
 very low. He shall be the head, and thou shalt be the tail." 
 Deut. xxviii. 43, 44. This we find in some measure verified 
 in their being made tributaries to the Moabites, Midianites, 
 Amorites and Philistines. 
 
 It is alleged in favour of the practice of keeping slaves, 
 that the Jews by their law made slaves of the heathen. " More- 
 over, of the children of the strangers that do sojourn among 
 you, of them shall ye buy, and of their families that are with 
 you, which they begat in your land : and they shall be your 
 possession. And ye shall take them as an inheritance for 
 your children after you, to inherit them for a possession ; they 
 shall be your bondmen for ever." Lev. xxv. 45. 46." It is 
 diflSicult for us to have any certain knowledge of the mind of 
 Moses, in regard to keeping slaves, any other way than by 
 looking upon him as a true servant of God, whose mind and 
 conduct were regulated by an inward principle of justice and 
 equity. To admit a supposition that he in that case was 
 drawn from perfect equity, by the alliance of outward kindred, 
 would be to disown his authority. 
 
 Abraham had servants born in his house, and bought with 
 his money; "And the Almighty said of Abraham, I know 
 him, that he will order his house after him." Which implies, 
 that he was a father, an instructor, and a good governor over 
 his people. And Moses, considered as a man of God, must 
 necessarily have had a prospect of some real advantage in the 
 strangers and heathens being servants for a time to the 
 Israelites. 
 
 As mankind had received and established many erroneous 
 opinions and hurtful customs, their living and conversing with 
 the Jews, while the Jews stood faithful to their principles, 
 might be helpful to remove those errors, and reform their man- 
 
219 
 
 ners. But for men, with private views, to assume an absolute 
 power over the persons and properties of others ; and to con- 
 tinue it from age to age in the line of natural generation, with- 
 out regard to the virtues and vices of their successors, being 
 manifestly contrary to true universal love, and attended with 
 great evils, it requires the clearest evidence to convince us, 
 that Moses intended that the strangers should, as such, be 
 slaves to the Jews. 
 
 He directed them to buy strangers and sojourners. It 
 ippears that there were strangers in Israel who were free 
 nen; and considering with what tenderness and humanity 
 ;he JelFS, by their law, were obliged to use their servants, 
 and what care was to be taken to instruct them in the true re- 
 ligion, it is not unlikely that some strangers, in poverty and 
 distress, were willing to enter into bonds to serve the Jews as 
 long as they lived ; and in such case the Jews, by their law, 
 had a right to that service. 
 
 When the awl was bored through the ear of the Hebrew 
 servant, the text saith, " He shall serve for ever;" yet we do 
 not suppose that by the words "forever," it was intended 
 that none of his posterity should afterwards be free. When it 
 is said in regard to the strangers which they bought, " They 
 shall be your possession," it may be well understood to 
 mean only the persons so purchased ; all preceding relates 
 •to buying them; and what follows, to the continuance of 
 their service, " Ye shall take thein as an inheritance for 
 your children after you; they shall be your bondmen for, 
 ever." 
 
 Moses directing Aaron and his sons to wash their hands 
 and feet, when they went into the tabernacle of the congrega- 
 tion, saith, " It shall be a statute for ever to them, even to 
 him and to his seed throughout their generations." Exodus, 
 XXX. 21. And to express the continuance of the law, it was 
 k2 
 
220 
 
 his common language, " It shall be a statute for ever througli- 
 out your generations." So that had he intended the posterity 
 of the strangers so purchased to continue in slavery to the 
 Jews, it is likely that he would have used some terms clearly 
 to express it. The Jews undoubtedly had slaves, whom they 
 kept as such from one age to another ; but that this was 
 agreeable to the genuine design of their inspired law-giver, is 
 far from being a clear case. 
 
 ilaking constructions of the law contrary to its true mean- 
 ing, was common among that people. Samuel's sons took 
 bribes, and perverted judgment — Isaiah complained that they 
 justified the wicked for reward — Zephaniah, contem^rary 
 with Jeremiah, on account of the injustice of the civil magis- 
 trates, declared that those judges were evening wolves; and 
 that the priests did violence to the law. 
 
 Jeremiah acquaints us, that the priests cried peace, peace! 
 when there was no peace ; by which means the people grew 
 bold in their wickedness; and having committed abomina- 
 tions, were not ashamed; but through wrong constructions of 
 the law, they justified themselves, and boastingly said, " We 
 are wise; and the law of the Lord is with us." These cor- 
 ruptions continued till the days of our Saviour,- who told the 
 Pharisees, " Thus have ye made the commandment of God of 
 none effect by your tradition." Mark xv. 6. 
 
 Thus it appears that in many ways they corrupted the law of *' 
 Moses ; nor is it unlikely that among others the oppressing of 
 the strangers was one; this was a heavy charge against the 
 Jews, and was very often strongly represented by the Lord's 
 faithful prophets. That the liberty of man was, by the in- 
 spired law-giver, esteemed precious, appears in this; that 
 such as unjustly deprived men of it, were to be punished in 
 like manner as if they had murdered them. " And he that 
 stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand. 
 
221 
 
 he shall surely be put to death." Exodus xxi. 16. This 
 part of the law was so considerable, that Paul the learned 
 Jew, giving a brief account of the uses of the law, adds this, 
 " It was made for men-stealers." 1 Tim. i. 10. 
 
 The great men among that people were exceedingly oppres- 
 sive : and it is likely, exerted their whole strength and influ- 
 ence to have the law construed to suit their turns. The honest 
 servants of the Lord had heavy work with them in regard to 
 their oppression. They were fully resolved to have slaves, 
 even of their own brethren, notwithstanding the promises 
 and threatenings of the Lord, by the prophet, and their 
 solemn covenant to set them free, confirmed by the impreca- 
 tion of passing between the parts of a calf cut in twain ; inti- 
 mating by that ceremony, that on breach of the covenant, it 
 were just for their bodies to be so cut in pieces. Yet after all 
 they held fast to their old custom, and called home the servants 
 whom they had set free — Jer. xxiv. 15. 16. 17. 18. 
 
 Soon after this their city was taken and burnt, the king's 
 sons and the princes were slain, and the king with the chief 
 men of his kingdom, carried captive to Babylon. Ezekiel, 
 prophesying the return of that people to their own land, 
 directs, " Ye shall divide the land by lot, for an inheritance 
 unto you, and to the strangers that sojourn among you ; in 
 what tribe the stranger sojourneth, there shall ye give him his 
 inheritance, saith the Lord God." Nor is this particular direc- 
 tion, and the authority with which it is enforced, without a 
 tacit implication, that their ancestors had erred in their con- 
 duct towards the stranger. 
 
 Some who keep slaves, have doubted the eqiiity of the 
 practice ; but as they knew men, noted for their piety, who 
 were in it, this they say, has made their minds easy. If we 
 keep slaves from no other motive than a real sense of duty, 
 and true charity governs us iji all our proceedings towards 
 
them, we are so far safe ; but if another spirit, which inclines 
 our minds to the ways of this world, prevail upon us, and we 
 are concerned for our own outward gain more than for their 
 real happiness, it will avail us nothing that some good men 
 have had the care and management of negros. 
 
 Since mankind spread upon the earth, many have been the 
 revolutions attending the various families, and their customs 
 and ways of life greatly differ. This diversity of manners 
 operates not in favour of any, so far as to justify them to do 
 violence to innocent men, or to bring them from their own 
 to another way of life. The mind when moved by a principle 
 of true love, may feel a warmth of gratitude to the universal 
 Father, and a lively sympathy with those nations, where Divine 
 Light has been less manifest; and this desire for their real 
 good may beget a willingness to undergo hardships for their 
 sakes, that the true knowledge of God may spread among 
 them : but to take people from their own land, with views of 
 profit to ourselves, by means inconsistent with pure justice, is 
 foreign to that principle which seeks the happiness of the 
 whole creation. Forced subjection of innocent persons of 
 full age, is inconsistent with right reason ; on one side, the 
 human mind is not naturally fortified with that firmness in 
 wisdom and goodness, which are necessary to an independent 
 ruler ; on the other side, to be subject to the uncontrollable 
 will of man, liable to err, is most painful and afflicting to a 
 conscientious creature. 
 
 It is our happiness faithfully to serve the Divine Being 
 who made us. His perfection makes our service reasonable. 
 Jlen who undertake to govern others, may intend to govern 
 reasonably, and to make their subjects more happy than they 
 would otherwise be; but, as absolute command belongs only 
 to Him who is perfect, when frail men, in their own wills, 
 
223 
 
 their minds, and to make them more unfit for government. 
 
 Placing on men the ignominious title SLAVE, dressing 
 them in uncomely garments, keeping them to servile and dirty 
 labour, tends gradually to fix a notion in the mind, that they 
 are a sort of people below us by nature. If a person who in 
 our esteem is mean and contemptible, should use language or 
 behaviour towards us vphich is unseemly or disrespectful, it 
 excites wrath more powerfully than the like conduct in one, 
 whom we account our equal or superior ; and when this hap- 
 pens to be the case, it disqualifies for candid judgment ; for 
 it is unfit for a person to sit as judge in a casein which his own 
 personal resentments are stirred up. As members of society 
 in a well-framed government, we are mutually dependent. Pre- 
 sent interest incites to duty, and makes each man attentive to 
 the convenience of others; but he whose will is a law to others, 
 and who can. enforce obedience by punishment ; he whose 
 wants are supplied without feeling any obligation to make equal 
 returns to his benefactor, is in danger of growing hard, and 
 inattentive to their convenience who labour for his support ; 
 his irregular appetites find an open field for motion, and he 
 loses that disposition in which alone men are fit to govern. 
 
 The English government hath been commended by candid 
 foreigners for the disuse of racks and tortures, so much prac- 
 tised in some states ; but this multiplying of slaves now leads 
 to it; for when people exact hard labour of others, without a 
 suitable reward, and are resolved to continue in that way, se- 
 verity to such as oppose them becomes the consequence ; and 
 several negro criminals, among the English in America, have 
 been executed in a lingering, painful way, very terrifying to 
 others. 
 
 It is a happy case to set out right, and to persevere in the 
 same way. A wrong beginning, leads into many difficulties. 
 To support one evil, another is committed ; two produce 
 
224 
 
 more; and the further men proceed in this way, the greatef 
 ire their dangers, doubts, and fears, and the more painful and 
 perplexing are their circumstances; so that such as are true 
 Friends to the real and lasting interests of our country, and 
 lyho candidly consider the tendency of things, cannot but feel 
 some concern on this account. 
 
 There is that superiority in men over the brute creatures, 
 md some of them are so manifestly dependent on men for a 
 living, that for them to serve us in moderation, so far as 
 relates to the right use of things, seems consonant to the de- 
 sign of our Creator. There is nothing in their frame, nothing 
 relative to the propagation of their species, which argues the 
 contrary ; but in men there is. The frame of men's bodies 
 ind the disposition of their minds are different. Some who 
 ire tough and strong, and their minds active, choose ways of 
 ife requiring much labour to support them ; others are soon 
 weary ; and though use makes labour more tolerable, yet some 
 ire less capable of toil than others, and their minds are less 
 sprightly. These latter labouring for their subsistence, com- 
 nonly choose a life easy to support, being content with a 
 ittle. When they are weary they may rest, take the most 
 idvantageous part of the day for labour; and in all cases 
 50 proportion one thing to another, that their bodies be not 
 appressed. 
 
 Now, while each is at liberty, the latter may be as happy, 
 ind live &,s comfortably as the former ; but when men of the 
 Srst sort have the latter under absolute command, and not 
 ;;ousidering the difference in strength and firmness, do some- 
 times lay on them burdens grievous to be borne, by degrees 
 grow rigorous, and aspiring to greatness, increase oppression, 
 the true order of kind Providence is subverted. 
 
 There are weaknesses sonietimes attending us, which make 
 
 lii-l'lp r\r nn altprafinn in mir p.Annfpnanppa nni* mnnli laoaan 
 
our appetite for food, and yet so affect us, as to make labour 
 very uneasy. In such cases, masters intent on putting for- 
 ward business, and jealous of the sincerity of their slaves, 
 may disbelieve what they say, and grievously afflict them. 
 Action is necessary for all men, and our exhausting frame 
 requires a support, which is the fruit of action. The earth 
 must be laboured to keep us alive : labour is a proper part of 
 our life; to make one support the other in some useful 
 exertions, seems agreeable to the design of our Creator. 
 Motion, rightly managed, _ tends to our satisfaction, health, 
 and support. 
 
 Those who quit all useful business, and live wholly on the 
 labour of others, have their exercise to seek; some such use 
 less than their health requires; others choose that which, by 
 the circumstances attending it, proves utterly reverse to true 
 happiness. Thus while some are divers ways distressed for 
 want of an open channel of useful action, those who support 
 them sigh, and are exhausted in a stream too powerful for na- 
 ture, spending their days with too little cessation from labour. 
 Seed sown with the tears of a confined, oppressed people, 
 corn cut down by an over-borne, discontented reaper, makes 
 bread less sweet to the taste of an honest man, than tliat which 
 is the produce, or just reward of that voluntary action which 
 is one proper part of the business of human creatures. 
 
 Again the weak state of the human species, in bearing 
 and bringing forth their young, and the helpless condition of 
 their offspring beyond that of other creatures, clearly show 
 that Perfect Goodness designs a tender care and regard should 
 be exercised towards them ; and that no imperfect, arbitrary 
 power should prevent the cordial effects of that sympathy, 
 which exists in the minds of well-met pairs towards each other, 
 and their offspring. In our species the mutual ties of affection 
 are more rational and durable than in others below us : the 
 
 k3 
 
care and labour of raising our offspring is mucli greater. The 
 satisfaction arising to us in their innocent company, and in 
 their advances from one rational improvement to another is 
 great, when two are thus joined, and their affections are sin- 
 cere. It however happens among slaves, that they are often 
 situate in different places ; and their seenig each other de- 
 pends on the will of men, liable to human passions and to a 
 bias in judgment ; v^ho with views of self-interest, may keep 
 them apart more than is right. Being absent from each other, 
 and often with other company, there is a danger of their affec- 
 tions being alienated, jealousies arising, the happiness,other- 
 wise resulting from their offspring frustrated, and the comforts 
 of marriage destroyed. These things being closely considered 
 as happening to a near friend, will appear to be hard and 
 painful. 
 
 He who reverently observes the goodness manifested by 
 our gracious Creator towards the various species of beings in 
 this world, will perceive, that our frame and constitution clearly 
 proves that innocent men, capable to manage for themselves, 
 are not intended to be slaves. A person lately travelling 
 among the negros near Senegal, makes this remark ; " Which 
 way soever I turned my eyes on this pleasant spot, I beheld a, 
 perfect image of pure nature ; an agreeable solitude, bounded 
 on every side by charming landscapes, the rural situation of 
 cottages in the midst of trees. The ease and indolence of 
 the negros reclined under the shade of their spreading foliage; 
 the simplicity of their dress and manners ; the whole revived 
 in my mind the idea of our first parents, and I seemed to 
 contemplate the world in its primitive stale." M. Adanson, 
 page 55. 
 
 Some negros in these parts, who have had a suitable edu- 
 cation, have manifested a brightness of understanding equal to 
 many of us. A remark of this kind we find in Bosnian, page 
 
227 
 
 328. "The negros of Fida^ saith he, are so accurately C|iuck 
 in their merchandize accounts, that they easily reckon as justly 
 and quickly in their heads only, as we do with the assistance 
 of pen and ink, though the sum amounts to several thousands." 
 
 Through the force of long custom, it appears needful to 
 speak in relation to colour. Suppose a white chQd, born ot 
 parents of the meanest sort, who died and left him an infant, 
 should fall into the hands of a person who should endeavour 
 to keep him a slave; some men would account the man unjust 
 in doing so, who themselves appear easy while many black 
 people of honest lives and good abilities, are enslaved in a 
 more shocking manner than the case here supposed. This is 
 owing chiefly to the idea of slavery being connected with the 
 black colour, and liberty with the white ; and when false ideas 
 are insinuated into our minds, it is with difficulty they get 
 fairly disentangled. 
 
 A traveller, missing his way in cloudy weather, makes 
 many turns while he is lost, and forms in his mind the 
 bearing and situation of places ; and though these ideas are 
 wrong, they fix as firmly as if they were right. Finding how 
 things are, we see our mistake ; yet the force of reason, with 
 repeated observations on places and things, does not soon 
 remove these false notions which are fastened upon us ; it may 
 seem in the imagination that the annual course of the sun 
 is altered ; and though by recollection we are assured it is not, 
 yet the idea does not suddenly leave us. 
 
 Selfishness clouds the understanding; and when selfish 
 men, for a long time, proceed on their way without opposition, ' 
 the deceivableness of unrighteousness gets so rooted in their 
 minds, that a candid examination of things relating to self- 
 interest is prevented ; in this circumstance, some who would 
 not enslave a person whose colour is like their own, seem 
 willing to make slaves of those of a different colour, ♦hough 
 
their understandings and morals be equal to the generality oi 
 men of their own colour. The colour of a man avails nothing 
 in matters of right and equity. Consider colour in relatior 
 to treaties, by which disputes between nations are sometimes 
 settled. And should the Father of us all so dispose things, 
 that treaties with black men should sometimes be necessary, 
 how then would it appear for the princes' and ambassadors, 
 to insiston the prerogative of the white colour? 
 
 How is it that men, who believe in a-righteous omnipotent 
 Being, to whom all nations stand equally related, and ars 
 equally accountable, remain so easy about enslaving their fel 
 low creatures ? Is it not that the idea of negro and slave is 
 so interwoven in the mind, that they do not discuss this mat- 
 ter with that candour and freedom of thought which the 
 case justly calls for ? To come at a right feeling of theii 
 condition, requires humble, serious thinking ; for in theu 
 present situation, they have but little to engage our natural af- 
 fection in their favour. Had we a son or a daughter involved iu 
 a case similar to what many of them are, it would alarpi us, and 
 make us feel their condition without seeking for it. The ad- 
 versitj'^ of an intimate friend will incite our compassion, while 
 others equally good, in the like trouble, will but little affec 
 us. And if a man in worldly honour whom we consider ai 
 our superior, treats us with kindness and generosity, it begets 
 a return of gratitude and friendship towards him. We maj 
 receive as great benefits from men a degree lower than our 
 selves, in the common way of reckoning, and feel ourselvei 
 less engaged in favour of them. Such is our condition b] 
 nature ; and these things being narrowly watched and ex 
 amined, wiU be found to centre in self-love. 
 
 The blacks seem far from being our kinsfolks; and did wi 
 find an agreeable disposition and sound understanding in somi 
 of theM, which appeared as a good foundation for a trui 
 
229 
 
 friendship between us, the disgrace arising from an open 
 friendship with a person of so vile a stock, in the common 
 esteem, would naturally tend to hinder it. They have neither 
 honours, riches, outward magnificence, nor power ; their dress 
 being coarse, and often ragged; their employment drudgery, 
 and much in the dirt, they have little or nothing at com- 
 mand, but must ^ait upon and work for others, to obtain 
 the necessaries of life ; so that in their present situation, 
 there is not much to engage the friendship or move the affec- 
 tion of selfish men ; but it is a thing familiar to such as live 
 in the spirit of true charity, to sympathize with the afflicted 
 in the lowest stations of life. 
 
 Such is the kindness of our Creator, that people applying 
 their minds to sound wisdom, may, in general, with moderate 
 exercise, live comfortably when no misapplied power hinders 
 it; which we, in these parts, have cause gratefully to acknow- 
 ledge. But when men leave the true use of things, their 
 lives are less calm, and they have less of real happiness. 
 Many are desirous of purchasing and keeping slaves, that they 
 may live in some measure conformable to the luxurious cus- 
 toms of the times ; for when we in the least degree depart 
 from that use of the creatures, for which the Creator of all 
 things intended them, then luxury begins. If we consider 
 this way of life seriously, we shall see there is nothing in it 
 sufficient to induce a wise man to choose it, before a plain, 
 simple way of living. If we examine stately buildings and 
 equipage, delicious food, superfine clothes, silks, and linens ; 
 if we consider the splendour of choice metal fastened upon 
 raiment, and the most showy inventions of men ; it will yet 
 appear that the humble-minded man, who is contented witn 
 the true use of houses, food, and garments, and cheerfully 
 exercises himself agreeably to his station in civil society to 
 earn them, acts more reasonably, and discovers more sound- 
 
ness of understanding in his conduct, than such as lay heavy 
 burdens on others, to support themselves in a luxurious way 
 of living. 
 
 In true gospel simplicity, free from all abuse of things, a 
 spirit which breathes peace and good will is cherished ; but 
 when we aspire after imaginary grandeur, and apply to selfish 
 means' to attain our end, this desire in its origin is the same 
 with that of the Picts, in cutting figures on their bodies ; but 
 the evil consequences attending our proceedings are the 
 greatest. 
 
 A covetous mind, which seeks opportunity to exalt itself, 
 is a great enemy to true harmony in a country ; envy and 
 grudging usually accompany this disposition, and it tends to 
 stir up its likeness in others. And when 'this disposition 
 ariseth so high, as to embolden us to look upon honest in- 
 dustrious men as our own property during life, and to keep 
 them to hard labour, to support us in those customs which 
 have not their foundation in right reason, or to use any means 
 of oppression ; a haughty spirit is cherished on one side, and 
 the desire of revenge frequently on the other, until the inha- 
 bitants of the land are ripe for great commotion and trouble ; 
 and thus luxury and oppression have the seeds of war and de- 
 solation in them. 
 
 InEandal's Geography, printed 1744, we are informed, 
 " That in a time of full peace, nothing is more common than 
 for the negros of one nation to steal those of another, and sell 
 them to the Europeans. It is thought that the English trans- 
 mit annually near fifty thousand of these unhappy creatures ; 
 and the other European nations together, about two hundred 
 thousand more." 
 
 It is through the goodness of God that a reformation 
 from gross idolatry and barbarity hath been partly effected ; if 
 we consider our conditions as Christians, and the benefits we 
 
231 
 
 enjoy, and compare tliem with the condition of the negros, 
 and consider that our nation trading with them for their comi. 
 try produce, have had an opportunity of imparting useful in- 
 structions to them, and remember that but little pains have 
 been taken therein, it must look like an indifference in us. 
 But wlien we reflect on a custom the most shocking of an)' 
 among them, and remember that with a view to outward gain, 
 we have joined as parties in it ; that our concurrence with 
 them in their barbarous proceedings, has tended to harden 
 them in cruelty, and has been the means of increasing calami- 
 ties in their country ; we must own that herein we have acted 
 contrary to those worthies, whose lives and substance were 
 spent in propagating truth and righteousness among the hea- 
 then. 
 
 Were many who are parties in this trade, by keeping slaves 
 with views of self-interest, to go as soldiers in one of these 
 inland expeditions to catch slaves, they must necessarily grow 
 dissatisfied with such employment, or cease to profess their 
 religious principles. And though the first and most striking 
 part of the scene is done at a great distance, and by other 
 hands, yet every one who is acquainted with the circumstan- 
 ces, and notwithstanding joins in it for the sake of gain 
 only, must, in the nature of things, be guilty with the 
 others. 
 
 Should we consider ourselves present as spectators, when 
 cruel negros privately ■ catch innocent children, who are em- 
 ployed in the fields, hear their lamentable cries, under the 
 most terrifying apprehensions ; or should we look upon it as 
 happening in our own families, having our children car- 
 ried off by savages, we must needs own that such proceedings 
 are contrary to the nature of Christianity; — should we me- 
 ditate on the wars which are greatly increased by this trade, 
 and on that affliction which many thousands live in, through 
 
apprehensions of being taken or slain; on the terror and 
 amazement of the villagers when surrounded by these troops 
 of enterprizers ; on the great pain and misery of dying men, 
 who get wounded in those skirmishes ; we should necessarily 
 see, that it is impossible to be parties in such trade on the 
 motives of gain, and retain our innocence. 
 
 Should we consider the case of multitudes of those people, 
 who in a fruitful soil and hot climate, with little labour, raise 
 grain, roots and pulse, to eat; spin and weave cotton, and 
 fasten together the large feathers of fowls, to cover their na- 
 kedness ; many of whom, in much simplicity, live inoffensively 
 in their cottages, and take great comfort in raising up children; 
 should we contemplate their circumstances when suddenly at- 
 tacked, and labour to understand their inexpressible anguish 
 of soul who survive the conflict: should we think on inoffen- 
 sive women who fled at the alarm, and at their return saw 
 that village, in which they and their acquaintance were raised 
 up, and had pleasantly spent their youthful days,, now lying in 
 gloomy desolation ; some shocked at finding the mangled 
 bodies of their near friends among the slain ; others bemoan- 
 ing the absence of a brother, a sister, a child, or a whole 
 family of children, who by cruel men were bound and carried 
 to market, to be sold without the least hopes of seeing them 
 again : should we in addition consider the afflicted condition 
 of these poor captives, who are separated from family connex- 
 ions, and all the comforts arising from friendship and acquain- 
 tance, carried among a people of a strange language, to be 
 parted from their fellow-captives, put to labour in a manner 
 more servile and wearisome than they were used to, with 
 many sorrowful circumstances attending their slavery : we 
 must necessarily conclude that it belongs not to the followers 
 of Christ to be parties in such a trade, on the motives of out- 
 ward gain. 
 
233 
 
 Though there were wars and desolation among, the negros 
 before the Europeans began to trade for slaves, yet noN*' 
 the calamities are greatly increased, so many thousands 
 being annually imported ; and we, by purchasing them 
 are become parties with them, and accessary to that in- 
 crease. Ip this case we are not joining against an enemy 
 who is fomenting discords on our continent, and using 
 all possible means to make slaves of us and of our chil- 
 dren ; but against a people who have not injured us. It 
 would seem rigorous to candid men, if those who were 
 spoiled and wronged should at length make slaves of their 
 oppressors, and continue slavery to their posterity ; but to act 
 that part towards a people, when neither they nor their fathers 
 have injured us, hath something in it extraordinary, and ie-^ 
 quires our serious attention. 
 
 Our children breaking a bone, getting so bruised that a leg 
 or an arm must be taken off; lost for a few hours, so that we 
 despair of their being found again ; a friend hurt, so that he 
 dieth in a day or two ; these things move us with grief. Did 
 we attend to those scenes in Africa, as if they were trans- 
 acted in our presence ; md sympaAize with the negros 
 in all their afflictions and miseries," as we do with our 
 children or friends ; we should be more careful to do nothing 
 in any degree to help forward a trade productive of so many 
 and so great calamities. Great distance is nothing in our 
 favour. Willingly to join with unrighteousness to the injury- 
 of men who live some thousand miles off, is the same in sub- 
 stance as joining with it to the injury of our neighbours. 
 
 In the eye of pure justice, actions are regarded according 
 to the spirit and disposition from which they arise. Some 
 evils are accounted scandalous, and the desire of reputation 
 may keep selfish men from appearing openly in them ; but he 
 who is shy on that account, and yet by indirect means pro- 
 motes that evil, and shares in the profit of it, cannot be inno- 
 
234 
 
 cent. He who, with a view to self-interest, huys a slave made 
 so by violence, and only on the strength of such purchase 
 holds him a slave, thereby joins hands with those who com- 
 mitted that violence, and in the nature of things becomes 
 chargeable with the guilt. 
 
 Suppose a. man wants a slave, and being in Gyinea, goes 
 and hides himself by the path where boys pass from one little 
 town to another, and there catches one on the day he expects 
 to sail ; and taking him on board, brings him home, without 
 any aggravating circumstances : suppose anothejr buys a man, 
 taken by them that live by plunder and the slave-trade ; who 
 often steal them privately^ and often shed much blood in 
 getting them. He who buys the slaves thus taken, pays those 
 men for their wickedness, and makes himself party with them. 
 Whatever nicety of distinction there may be between going in 
 person on expeditions to catch slaves, and buymg those with a 
 view to self-interest which others have taken ; it is clear and 
 plain to an upright mind, that such distincton is in words not 
 in substance ; for the parties are concerned in the same work, 
 and have a necessary connexion with, and dependence on each 
 other. Were there no»e to purchase slaves, they who live by 
 stealing and selling them, would of consequence soon cease to 
 do so. 
 
 Some would buy a negro brought from Guinea, and 
 keep him a slave, who yet would scruple to take arms and 
 join with men employed ip taking slaves. Others have 
 civil negros, who were born in our country, capable and 
 likely to manage well for themselves ; whom they keep 
 as slaves, without ever trying them with freedom, and 
 take the profit of their labour as a part of their estates, 
 and yet disapprove bringing them from their own country. 
 If those negros had come here as merchants, with their ivory 
 and gold-dust, in order to trade with us, and some powerful 
 
235 
 
 person had taken their effects to himself, and then put them 
 to hard labour, and ever after considered them as slaves, the 
 action would be looked upon as unrighteous. 
 
 If those negro merchants had children after they came 
 among us, whose endowments and conduct were like other 
 people's in common, and on their attaining to mature age, 
 and requesting to h'ave their liberty, should be told they were 
 born in slavery, -and were lawful slaves, and therefore their 
 request should be denied ; such conduct towards them would 
 be looked upon as unfair and oppressive. 
 
 In the present case, relating to home-born negros whose 
 understandings and behaviour are as good as is common 
 among other people, if we have any claim to them as slaves, 
 that claim is grounded on their being children or offspring of 
 slaves, who in general were made such through means as un- 
 righteous, and attended with more terrible circumstances than 
 the case last supposed ; so that when we trace our claim to 
 the bottom, we have no more equitable right to the service of 
 these home-born negros, having paid for their education, and 
 given reasonable security to those who owned them, in case of 
 their becoming chargeable, than we should have if they were 
 the children of honest merchants, who came from Guinea in 
 an English vessel to trade with us. If we claim any right to 
 them as the children of slaves, we build on the foundation 
 laid by those who enslaved their ancestors ; so that of neces- 
 sity we must either justify the trade, or relinquish our right 
 to them, as bemg the children of slaves. 
 
 Why should it seem right to honest men to make gain by 
 these people more than by others ? Others enjoy freedom, 
 and receive wages equal to their work, at or near the time 
 when they have discharged the equitable obligations they are 
 under to those who educated them. The negros have made 
 no contra-ct to serve ; have been no more expensive in bringing 
 
236 
 
 Tip than others, and many of them appear as likely to make a 
 right use of freedom as other people ; how then can an honest 
 man withhold from them that liberty, which is the free gift of 
 the Most High to his rational creatures ? The upright in 
 heart cannot succeed the wicked in their wickedness ; nor is 
 it consonant to the life they live, to hold fast an advantage un- 
 justly gained. * 
 
 The negros who live by plunder and the slave-trade, steal 
 poor innocent children, invade their neighbours' territories,, 
 and spill much blood to get the slaves ; and can it be possible 
 for an honest man to suppose, that with a view to self-interest, 
 we may continue the offspring of these unhappy sufferers in 
 slavery, merely because they are the children of slaves, and 
 not be partakers of this guilt ? It is granted by many, that this 
 means used to get the negros are unrighteous, and that buying 
 them, when brought here, is wrong ; yet, since setting them 
 free is attended with some difficulty, they will not do it ; but 
 seem to be of the opinion, that to keep them servants without 
 any other wages than food and raiment, is the best way to 
 manage them that they know of; and hoping that their child- 
 ren after them will not be cruel to the negros, conclude to 
 leave them as slaves to their children. 
 
 While present outward interest is the chief object of our 
 attention, we feel many objections in our minds against re- 
 nouncing our claim to the children of slaves : being prepos- 
 sessed with wrong opinions, prevents our seeing things clearly, 
 which by uninterested persons are easily perceived. 
 
 Suppose a person, seventy years past, in low circumstances, 
 bought a negro man and woman, and that the children of such 
 person are now wealthy, and have the childrep of such slaves. 
 Admit that the first negro man and his wife did as much bu- 
 siness as their master and mistress, and that the children of 
 
237 
 
 the slaves have done some more than ihwi, young masters. 
 Suppose that on the whole, the expense of living has been 
 less on the negros' side than on the other (all which are 
 no improbable suppositions) it follows, that in equity these 
 negros have a right to a part of this increase : and should 
 some difficulties arise on their being set free, there is reason 
 for us patiently to labour through them. 
 
 As the conduct of men varies in relation to civil society, 
 so different treatment is justly due to them. Indiscreet men 
 occasion trouble in the world ; and it remains to be the care 
 of such as seek the good of mankind, to admonish as they 
 find occasion. The slothfulness of some of them, in provi- 
 ding for themselves and families, would probably require the 
 notice of their neighbours ; nor is it unlikely that some would 
 with justice be made servants, and others punished for their 
 crimes. Pure justice pomts out to each individual his due ; 
 but to deny a people the privilege of human creatures, on a 
 prejudice that being free many of them would be trouble- 
 some to us, is to mix the condition of good and bad men to- 
 gether, and to treat the whole as the worst of them deserve. 
 
 If we seriously consider that liberty is the right of inno- 
 cent men ; that the mighty God is a refuge for the oppressed ; 
 that in reality we are indebted to slaves ; that they being set 
 free, are still liable to the penalties of our laws, and as liable 
 to punishment for their crimes as other people : this may an- 
 swer all our objections. To retain them in perpetual servi- 
 tude without just cause for it, will produce effects, in the end 
 more grievous than setting them free would do, when a real 
 - love to truth and equity was the motive to it. Our authority 
 over them stands originally in a purchase made from those 
 who, in general, obtained them by unrighteousness. When- 
 ever we have recourse to such authority, it tends more or less 
 to obstruct the channels through which the perfect plant in 
 us receives nourishment. 
 
238 
 
 There is a priiipiule whicH is pure, placed in the hunt 
 mind ; which in difrerent places and ages hath had differi 
 names ; it is however pure, and proceeds from God. Il 
 deep and inward, confined to no forms of religion, nor exc 
 dad from any, when the heart stands in perfect sincerity, 
 whomsoever this takes root and grows, of what nation soev 
 they become brethren in the best sense of the expressi( 
 Using ourselves to take ways which appear most easy to i 
 inconsistent with that purity which is without beginning, 
 set up a government of our own, and deny obedience to Hi: 
 whose service is true liberty. 
 
 He that hath a servant, and knows him to be made 
 wrongfully, and treats him otherwise than a free man, in rea 
 ing the benefit of his labour, without paying him such waj 
 as are reasonably due to freemen ; such things though do 
 in calmness, without any show of disorder, do yet depra 
 the mind with as great certainty, as prevailing cold conge, 
 water. Such conduct will be very striking to the minds of ch 
 dren whilst young, and will leave less room for that which 
 good to work upon them. Conceiving ideas of things ai 
 modes of conduct, from the custom of their parents, thf 
 neighbours, and the people with whom they converse, the e 
 trance into their hearts becomes, in a great measure, shut i 
 against the gentle movings of uncreated purity. From one aj 
 to another, the gloom grows thicker and darker, till error g« 
 established by general opinion. Whoever remains under tl 
 melting influence of perfect goodness, finds a path unknov 
 to many, and sees the necessit}' to lean upon the arm i 
 Divine strength, and to dwell alone ; or with a few in tl 
 right, committirg their cause to Him, \vho is a refuge for h 
 people in all their troubles. 
 
 When, through the agreement of a multitude, some cha: 
 
239 
 
 nds of justice are stopped, and men may support their cha- 
 racters as just men, by being jvist to a party, there is great 
 daiiger of contracting an alliance with that spirit which stands 
 in opposition to the God of love, and spreads discord, trouble, 
 and vexation, among such as give up to the influence of it. 
 
 Negros are our fellow-creatures, and their present condi- 
 tion among us requires our serious consideration. We know 
 not the time when those scales, in which mountains are 
 weighed, may turn. The Parent of mankind is gracious : his 
 care is over his smallest creatures ; and a multitude of men 
 escape not his notice. And though many of them are trodden 
 down and despised, yet He remembers them. He seeth their 
 affliction, and.looketh upon the spreading, increasing, exalta- 
 tion of the oppressor. He turns the channels of power, hum- 
 bles the most haughty people, and gives deliverance to the 
 oppressed, at such periods as are consistent with his infinite 
 justice and mercy. And whenever gain is preferred to equity, 
 and wickedness is publicly encouraged to that degree, that it 
 takes root, and spreads wide among the inhabitants of a coun- 
 try, there is real cause for sorrow to all those whose love to 
 mankind stands on a true principle, and who wisely consider 
 the end of things. 
 
CONSIDERATIONS 
 
 ON 
 
 PURE WISDOM, AND HUMAN POLICY; 
 
 OK 
 
 LABOUR; 
 ON SCHOOLS; 
 
 AND OK 
 
 THE RIGHT USE OF THE LORD'S OUTWARD GIFTS. 
 [First printed in the year 1768.] 
 
 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 My mind hath often been affected with sorrow on account 
 of the prevaihng of that spirit, which leads from an humble 
 waiting on the inward teaching of Christ, to pursue ways of 
 living attended with unnecessary labour, and which draws 
 forth the minds of many people to seek after outward power, 
 and to strive for riches, which frequently introduce oppres- 
 sion, and bring forth wars and grievous calamities. 
 
 It is with reverence that I acknowledge the mercies of our 
 heavenly' Father, who in infinite love did visit me in my 
 
youth, and wrought a beUef in me, that through true obedi- 
 ence, a state of inward purity may be known in this hf'e, in 
 which we may love mankind in the same love with which our 
 Redeemer loveth us, and therein learn resignation to endure 
 hardships, for the good of others. 
 
 " While the eye is single, the whole body is full of light ;" but 
 selfish desires, and an imaginary superiority, darken the mind ; 
 hence injustice frequently proceeds ; and when this is the 
 case, to convince the judgment is the most effectual remedy. 
 When violent measures are pursued in opposing injustice, 
 the passions and resentments of the injured frequently operate 
 in the prosecution of their designs ; and after conflicts pro- 
 ductive of very great calamities, the minds of contending 
 parties often remain as little acquainted with the pure princi- 
 ple of Divine love, as they were before ; but when people walk 
 in that pure light in which all their deeds are wrought in 
 God," John iii. 21. and under oppression, persevere in the 
 meek spirit, and abide firm in the cause of truth, without ac- 
 tively complying with oppressive demands, the Lord hath often 
 manifested his power through them in opening the understand- 
 ings of others, to the promoting of righteousness in tlie earth. 
 
 A time I believe is coming, wherein this Divine work will so 
 spread and prevail, that " Nation shall not lift up sword against 
 nation, neither shall they learn war any more." Isaiah ii. 4. 
 And as we, through the tender mercies of God, feel that this 
 precious work is begun, I am concerned to encourage my 
 brethren and sisters in a holy care and diligence, that each of 
 us may so live under the sanctifying power of truth, as to be 
 redeemed from all unnecessary cares ; that our eye being 
 single to Him, no-customs however prevalent, which are con- 
 trary to the wisdom from above, may hinder us from faithfully 
 following His holy leadings, in whatsoever He may gracious- 
 ly appoint for us. 
 
 L 
 
CONSIDERATIONS, &c. 
 
 'The wisdom that is from ahove, is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, 
 md easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good iruits, without par- 
 ;iality, and without hypocrisy." — James iii. 17- 
 
 On Pure Wisdom, and Human Policy. 
 
 To have our trust settled in the Lord, and not to seek after 
 Lor desire outward treasures, any further than his Holy Spirit 
 eads us therein, is a happy state, as saith the prophet, " Bles- 
 ed is the man that tiusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the 
 jord is." Jer. xvii. 7. 
 
 Pure wisdom leads people into lowliness of mind, in which 
 hey learn resignation to the Divine will, and contentment in 
 uffering for his cause, when they cannot keep a clear consci- 
 nce without suffering.. In this pure wisdom the mind is at- 
 eiitive to the root and original spring of motions and desires ; 
 nd as we know " the Lord to be our refuge," and find no 
 afety but in humbly walking before Him ; we feel an holy en- 
 ;agement that every desire which leads therefrom may be 
 irought to judgment. 
 
 While we proceed in this precious way, and find ardent 
 ongings for a full deliverance from every thing which defiles, 
 11 prospects of gain, that are not consistent with the wisdom 
 
243 
 
 from above, are considered as snares ; and an inward concern 
 is felt that we may live under the cross, and faithfully attend 
 to that Holy Spirit which is sufficient to preserve us from 
 them. When I have considered that saying of Christ, Matt, 
 vi. 19, " Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth ;" His 
 omnipotence hath often occurred to my mind. While we be- 
 lieve that He is every where present with his people, and that 
 perfect goodness, wisdom, and power, are united in Him, how 
 comfortable is the consideration. 
 
 Our wants may be great, but his power is greater. We 
 may be oppressed and despised, but he is able to turn our 
 patient sufferings into profit to ourselves, and to the advance- 
 ment of his work on earth. His people, who feel the power 
 of his cross to crucify all that is selfish in them ; who are en- 
 gaged in outward concerns, from a conviction that it is their 
 duty, and resign themselves and their treasures to Him ; feel 
 that it is dangerous to give way to that which craves riches 
 and greatness in this world. 
 
 The heart, truly contrite, earnestly desires " to know 
 Christ, and the fellowship of his sufferings," Phil. iii. 10. so 
 far as the Lord, for gracious ends, may lead into them ; and 
 such feel that it is their interest to put their trust in God, and 
 to seek no gain but that which He, by his Holy Spirit, leads 
 into. On the contrary, they who do not reverently wait fur 
 this Divine teacher, and are not humbly concerned, according 
 to their measure, " to fill up that which is behind of the af- 
 flictions of Christ," Col. i. 24, in patiently suffering for the 
 promoting of righteousness in the earth; but have an eye to- 
 wards the power of men, and the outward advantages of 
 wealth, are often engaged in such trade and business as pro- 
 ceeds from the workings of that spirit, which is estranged 
 from the self-denying life of an humble, contrite Christian. 
 
 While I write on this subject, I feel my mind tenderly 
 l2 
 
244 
 
 ffected towards those honestly disposed people, who have 
 een brought up in employments attended with these difficxil- 
 les. To such I may say, in the feeling of our heavenly Fa- 
 lier's love, and number myself with them, that our eyes 
 :iay be single to the Lord ! May we reverently wait on Him 
 ar strength, to lay aside all unnecessary expense of every 
 ind, and to learn contentment in a plain simple life. May 
 fe in lowliness submit to the leadings of his spirit, and enter 
 pon any outward employment which he may graciously 
 oint out to us ; and then whatever difficulties arise, in con- 
 squence of our faithfulness, I trust they will work for our 
 ood. Small treasure for a resigned mind is sufficient. How 
 appy it is to be content with little, to live in humility, and 
 D feel that in us which breathes out this language, Abba ! 
 "ather. If that called the wisdom of this world had no re- 
 smblance to true wisdom, the name of wisdom, I suppose, 
 fould not have been given to it. 
 
 As wasting outward substance to gratify vain desires, oft- 
 n involves men and their families in trouble, so slothfulness 
 nd neglect frequently reduce them to want and distress. To 
 hun both these opposite vices is good in itself, and hath a 
 esemblance to wisdom ; but when people thus provident, have 
 t principally in view to get riches, and power, and the friend- 
 hip of this world, and do not humbly wait for the spirit of 
 ruth to lead them into purity ; these through an anxious care 
 obtain the end desired, reach forth for gain in worldly wis- 
 lom, and in regard to their inward state, fall into divers temp- 
 ations and snares. And though such may think of applying 
 vealth to good purposes, and of using their power to prevent 
 )ppression, yet wealth and power are often applied otherwise ; 
 lor can we depart from the leadings of our Holy Shepherd, 
 vithout going into confusion. 
 
 Great wealth is frequently attended with power, which no- 
 
thing can qualify tlie mind to use rightly but Divine love ; 
 and as to the humility and uprightness of our children after 
 us, how great is the uncertainty! If, in acquiring wealth, «e 
 take hold of the wisdom which is from beneath, and depart from 
 the leadings of truth, and example our children herein, we 
 have great cause to apprehend that wealth ma}' be a snare to 
 them ; and prove an injury to others over M'hom their wealth 
 may give them power. 
 
 To be redeemed from that wisdom which is from beneath, 
 and to walk in the light of the Lord, is a precious state ; thus 
 His people are brought to put their trust in Him ; and in 
 this humble confidence in His wisdom, goodness, and pow- 
 er, the righteous find a refuge in adversities superior to the 
 greatest outward helps ; and a comfort more certain than any 
 worldly advantages can afford. 
 
 On Labour. 
 
 Having from my childhood been used to bodily labour for 
 a living, I may express my experience therein. 
 
 Moderate exercise affords an innocent pleasure, and pre- 
 pares us to enjoy the sweetness of rest ; but from extremes 
 either way arise inconveniences. Moderate exercise opens the 
 pores, gives the blood a lively circulation, and enables us to 
 judge rightly respecting that portion of labour which is the 
 true medium. " The fowls of the air sow not, nor gather into 
 barns, yet our heavenly Father feedeth them," Matt. vi. 26 ; 
 and I believe that infinite goodness and power would not have 
 allotted labour to us, had He not seen that labour was proper 
 for us in this life. 
 
24fl 
 
 The original design, and true medium of labour, is a sub- 
 ject that to me appears worthy of our serious consideration. 
 Idle men often neglect the duty they owe to their families, and 
 become burdensome to themselves and others. As outward 
 labour, directed by the wisdom from above, tends to our 
 health, and adds to our happiness in this life ; so, on the con- 
 trary, entering upon it in a selfish spirit, and pursuing it too 
 long, or too hard, has a contrary effect. 
 
 I have observed that too much labour not only makes the 
 understanding dull, but so disturbs the harmony of the body, 
 that after ceasing from our toil, we have more to pass through 
 before we can be so composed as to enjoy the sweetness of 
 rest. From too much labour in the heat immoderate sweats 
 frequently proceed, which often I believe open the way for 
 disorders, and impair our constitutions. When we go beyond 
 the true medium, and feel weariness approaching, but think 
 business may suffer if we cease, spirituous liquors are frequent- 
 ly taken, with a view to support nature under these fatigues. 
 
 I have found that too much labour in the summer, heats 
 the blood; that taking strong drink to support the body un- 
 der such labour, increases that heat ; and though a person may 
 be so far temperate as not to manifest the least disorder, yet 
 the mind, in such circumstances, doth not retain that calmness 
 and serenity in which we should endeavour to live, and is very 
 much disqualified from successfully following Him who was 
 " meek and low of heart." 
 
 As laying out business, beyond what is consistent with 
 pure wisdom is an evil, so this evil frequently leads into more: 
 too much business leads to hurry. In the hurry and toil, too 
 much strong drink is often used, and hereby many proceed to 
 noise and wantonness ; and some, though more considerate, 
 do often suffer loss as to a true composedness of mind. I feel 
 sincere desires in my heart, that no rent, nor interest, may be 
 
247 
 
 laid so high as to be a snare to tenants ; that no desires of 
 gain may draw any too far in business ; that no cares to sup- 
 port customs, which have not their foundation in pure wisdom, 
 may have place in our minds ; but that we may build on the 
 sure foundation, and feel our holy Shepherd to lead us, who 
 alone is able to preserve us from every thing that defiles. 
 
 Having several times, in my travels, had opportunity to ob- 
 serve the labour and manner of life of great numbers of slaves, 
 it appears to me that the true medium is lamentably neglected 
 by many who assign them their portion of labour. Without 
 saying much at this time, concerning buying and selling men 
 for term of life, who have as just a right to liberty as we have, 
 or about the great miseries, and effusion of blood, consequent 
 on promoting the slave trade ; and to speak as favourably as 
 may be, with regard to continuing those in bondage who are 
 among us, we cannot say there is no partiality in it. For, 
 whatever tenderness may be manifested by individuals in tlieir 
 life time, towards them, yet for people to be transmitted from 
 a man to his posterity, in the helpless condition of slaves, ap- 
 pears inconsistent with the gospel spirit. From such proceed- 
 ings it often follows, that persons in the decline of life, are 
 deprived of monies equitably due to them, and committed to 
 the care, and subjected to the absolute power of young inex- 
 perienced men, who know little about the weakness of old age, 
 nor understand the language of declining life. 
 
 When parents give estates to their children, and then de- 
 pend on them for a maintenance, they sometimes meet with 
 great inconveniences : but if the power of possession thus 
 obtained, often reverses the obligations of gratitude and filial 
 duty, and makes manifest that youth are often ignorant of 
 the language of old age, how hard is the case of aged negros; 
 wha, deprived of the wages equitably due to them, are left to 
 young people who have been used to look upon them as their 
 ijiferiors. 
 
248 
 
 For men to behold the fruits of their labour witlihelfi 
 from them, and possessed by others, and in old age when the) 
 feel pains, and stiffiiess in their joints and limbs, weakness ol 
 appetite, and that a little labour is wearisome, and behold 
 themselves in the neglected, uncomfortable condition of slaves, 
 oftentimes to the young and unsympathizing — when the] 
 are thus treated, from one generation to another, and besides 
 their own distresses, think on the slavery entailed on their pos- 
 terity ; what grievous thoughts must they have of the pro- 
 fessed followers of Jesus ! and how must their groans ascend 
 to that Almighty Being, who " will be a refuge for the oppres- 
 sed !" Psalm ix. 9. 
 
 On Schools. 
 
 " Siift'er (he little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, 
 foi' of such is the kingdom of God." — Mark x. 14. 
 
 To encourage children to do things with a view to get 
 ])raise of men, appears an obstruction to their being inwardly 
 acquainted with the spirit of truth. For it is the work of the 
 Holy Spirit to direct the mind to God ; that in all our pro- 
 ceedings we may have a single eye to Him ; may give alma 
 in secret ; fast in secret ; and labour to keep clear of that dis- 
 position reproved by our Saviour, "But all their works they 
 do for to be seen of men." Matt, xxiii. 5. 
 
 That Divine light which enlightens all men, does, I believe, 
 often shine in the minds of children very early; and 
 humbly to wait for wisdom that our conduct towards them 
 may tend to forward their acquaintance with it, and strengthen 
 them in obedience thereto, appears to me to be a duty on us 
 
249 
 
 all. By cherishing in them the spirit of pride, and the love 
 of praise, I believe they may sometimes improve faster in 
 learning, than they otherwise would ; but to take measures to 
 forward children in learning, which naturally tend to divert 
 their minds from true humility, appears to me to savour of the 
 wisdom of this world. If tutors are not acquainted with 
 sanctification of spirit, nor experienced in an humble waiting 
 for the leadings of truth, but follow the maxims of the wis- 
 dom of this world, such children as are under their tuition, 
 appear to me to be in danger of imbibing thoughts and habits 
 the reverse of that meekness and lowliness of heart, which is 
 necessary for all the true followers of Christ. 
 
 Children at an age fit for schools, are at a time of life 
 which requires the patient attention of pious people ; and if 
 we commit them to the tuition of those, whose minds we be- 
 lieve are not rightly prepared to " train them up in the nurture 
 and admonition of the Lord," we are in danger of not acting 
 the part of faithful parents towards them. Our heavenly Fa- 
 ther doth not require us to do evil, that good may come of it ; 
 and it is needful that we deeply examine ourselves, lest we get 
 entangled in the wisdom of this world, and through wrong ap- 
 prehensions, take such methods in education as may prove a 
 great injury to the minds of our children. It is a lovely sight 
 to behold innocent children; and when they are sent to schools 
 ^^■here their tender minds are in imminent danger of being led 
 astray by tutors, who do not live a self-denying life, or by 
 the conversation of such children as do not live in innocence, 
 it is a case much to be lamented. 
 
 While a pious tutor hath the charge of no more children 
 than he can take due care of, and keeps his authority in the 
 truth, the good spirit in which he leads and governs, works on 
 tlie minds of such as are not hardened ; and his labours not 
 only tend to bring them forward in outward learning, but to 
 
 i3 
 
250 
 
 open their understandings with respect to the true Christian 
 life ; but when a persxjn hath charge of too many, and his 
 thoughts and time are so much employed in the outward af- 
 fairs of his school, that he does not so weightily attend to the 
 spirits and conduct of each individual, as to be enabled to ad- 
 minister rightly to all in due season ; through such omission, 
 he not only suiFers as to the state of his own mind, but the 
 minds of the children are in danger of suffering also. 
 
 To watch the spirits of children, to nurture them in gospel 
 love, and labour to help them against that which would mar 
 the beauty of their minds, is a debt we owe them ; and a 
 faithful performance of our duty not only tends to their last- 
 ing benefit, and to our own peace, but also renders their com- 
 pany agreeable to us. Instruction thus administered, reaches 
 the pure witness in the minds of such children as are not 
 hardened, and begets love in them towards those who thus 
 lead them on ; but where too great a number are committed to 
 one tutor, and he, through much cumber, omits a careful at- 
 tention to the minds of his scholars, there is danger of disord- 
 ers gradually increasing among them, until they grow too 
 strong to be easily remedied. A care hath lived on my mind, 
 that more time might be employed by parents at home, and by 
 tutors at school, in weightily attending to the spirit and incli- 
 nations of children, and that we may so lead, instruct, and 
 govern them, in this tender part of life, that nothing may be 
 omitted which is in our power, to help them on their way to 
 become the children of our Father who is in heaven. 
 
 Meditating on the situation of schools in our provinces, 
 my mind hath at times been affected with sorrow ; and under 
 this exercise, it hath appeared to me, that if those who have 
 large estates were faithful stewards, and laid no rent, nor in- 
 terest, nor other demand, higher than is consistent with 
 universal love ; and if those in lower circumstances would. 
 
251 
 
 under a moderate employ, shun unnecessary expense, even to 
 the smallest article ; and all unite m humbly seeking to the 
 Lord, He would graciously instruct, and strengthen us to re- 
 lieve the youth from various snares, in which many of them 
 are entangled. 
 
 On the right use of the Lord's outward gifts. 
 
 As our understandings are opened by the pure light, we 
 experience, that through an inward approaching to God, the 
 mind is sti'engthened in obedience ; and that by gratifying 
 those desires which are not of his begetting, these approaches 
 to Him are obstructed, and the deceivable spirit gains strength. 
 These truths being as it were engraven on our hearts, and our 
 everlasting interest in Christ evidently concerned therein, we 
 become fervently engaged that nothing, may be nourished 
 which tends to feed pride or self-love in us. Thus in pure 
 obedience, we are not onlj' instructed in our duty to God, but 
 also in the affairs which necessarily relate to this life, and the 
 Spirit of truth which guides into all truth, leavens the mind 
 with a pious concern, that whatsoever we do in word or deed, 
 may be done in his name. Col. iii. 1 7. Hence such buildings, 
 furniture, food, and raiment, as best answer our necessities, 
 and are the least likely to feed that selfish spirit which is our 
 enemy, are the most acceptable to us. 
 
 In this state the mind is tender, and inwardly watchful, 
 that the love of gain draw us not into any business, which may 
 weaken our love to our heavenly Father, or bring unnecessary 
 trouble to any of his creatures. And thus the way would 
 gradually open to cease from that spirit which craves riches, 
 and things fetched from afar, and which so mix with the cus- 
 
tnnis of tliis world, and so intrude upon the true harmony of 
 life, that the right medium of labour is very much departed 
 from. If the minds of people were thus settled in a steady 
 concern, not to hold nor possess any thing but what may be 
 held consistent with the wisdom from above, they would con- 
 sider what they possess as the gift of God ; and would be in- 
 wardly exercised, that in all parts of their conduct they might 
 act agreeably to the nature of the peaceable government of 
 Christ. 
 
 Such a life is supported with little ; and in a state truly 
 resigned to the Lord, the eye is single to see what outward 
 employ lie leads into, as a means of our subsistence ; and a 
 lively care is maintained to hold to that without launching 
 further. There is a harmony in the several parts of this Di- 
 vine work in the hearts of people. He who leads them to 
 cease from those gainful employments, which are carried on 
 in that wisdom which is from beneath, delivers also from the 
 desire after worldly greatness, and reconciles the mind to a 
 life so plain, that a little doth suffice. Here the real comforts 
 of life are not lessened. Moderate exercise, in the way of true 
 wisdom, is pleasant both to mind and body. Food and rai- 
 ment sufficient, though in the greatest simplicity, are accepted 
 with contentment and gratitude. 
 
 The mutual love subsisting between the faithful followers 
 of Christ, is more pure than that friendship which is not 
 seasoned with humility, how specious soever the appearance. 
 Where people depart from pure wisdom in one case, it is often 
 an introduction to depart from it in many more ; and thus a 
 spirit which seeks for outward greatness, and leads into world- 
 ly wisdom to attain and support it, gets possession of the 
 mind. 
 
 In beholding the customary departure from the true me- 
 dium of labour, and that imnecessary toil which many go 
 
253 
 
 through, in supporting outward greatness, and procuring deli- 
 cacies : in beholding how the true cahnness of life is changed 
 into hurry, and that many, by eagerly pursuing outward trea- 
 sure, are in great danger of withering, as to the inward state 
 of the mind : in meditating on the works of this spirit, and 
 on the desolations it makes among the professors of Christi- 
 anity, I may thankfully acknowledge, that I often feel pure 
 love beget longings in my heart, for the exaltation of the 
 peaceable kingdom of Christ, and an engagement to labour ac- 
 cording to the gift bestowed on me, for the promoting an 
 humble, plain, temperate way of living: a life in which no 
 unnecessary cares, or expenses, may encumber our minds, or 
 lessen our ability to do good ; in v/hich no desires after riches, 
 or greatness, may lead into hard dealings ; no connexion with 
 worldly-minded men, may abate our love to God, or weaken 
 a true zeal for righteousness : a life, wherein we may diligent- 
 ly labour for resignedness to do, and to suffer, whatever our 
 heavenly Father may allot for us, in reconciling the world to 
 Himself. 
 
 When the prophet Isaiah had uttered his vision, and de- 
 clared that a time was coming wherein swords should be beaten 
 into plough-shares, and spears into pruning-hooks, and that 
 nation should not lift up sword against nation, nor learn war 
 any more ; he immediately directs the minds of people to the 
 Divine teacher, in this remarkable language, " house of 
 Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light of the Lord." 
 Isaiah ii. 5. It is necessary to wait for the direction of this 
 light, in all temporal as well as spiritual concerns ; for if in 
 any case we enter lightly into temporal affairs, without feeling 
 this Spirit of truth to open our way therein, and, through the 
 love of this world, seek for gain by that business or traffic 
 which "is not of the Father, but of the world, "1 John ii. 16, 
 we fail in our testimony to the purity and peace of His go- 
 vernment ; and get into that which is for chastisement. 
 
254 
 
 This matter hath lain heavy on my mind, it being evident 
 that a Ufe less humble, less simple and plain, than that which 
 Christ leads his sheep into, does necessarily require a support 
 which pure wisdom does not provide for ; hence, there is no 
 probability of our being " a peculiar people," so zealous of 
 good works, as to have no fellowship with works of darkness, 
 while we have wants to supply, which have their foimdation 
 in custom, and do not come within the meaning of those ex- 
 pressions, " your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need 
 of all these things." Matt. vi. 32. These things which he 
 beholds necessary for his people, He fails not to give them, in 
 his own way and time ; but, as his ways are above our ways, 
 and his thoughts above our thoughts, so imaginary wants are 
 different from the things which he knoweth that we have need 
 of. 
 
 As my meditations have been on these things, compassion 
 hath filled my heart towards my fellow-creatures who are in- 
 volved in customs, grounded on " the wisdom of this world, 
 which is foolishness with God," 1 Cor. iii. 19. O that the 
 youth may be so thoroughly experienced in an humble walking 
 before the Lord, that they may be his children; and know 
 Him to be their safe unfailing refuge, through the various dan- 
 gers of this uncertain state of being ! If those whose minds 
 are redeemed from the love of wealth, and who are content with 
 a plain simple way of living, do nevertheless find that in con- 
 ducting the affairs of a family, without giving countenance to 
 unrighteous proceedings, or having fellowship with works of 
 darkness, the most diligent care is necessary : if customs dis- 
 tinguishable from universal righteousness, and opposite to the 
 true self-denying life, are now prevalent, and so mixed ■ with 
 trade, and with almost every employ, that it is only through 
 humble waiting on the inward guidance of Truth, that we 
 may reasonably hope to walk safely, and support an uniform 
 
255 
 
 testimoii)' to the peaceable government of Christ : if this be 
 the case, how lamentably do they expose themselves to temp- 
 tations, who give -way to the love of riches, conform to expen- 
 sive living, and strive for gain to support customs which our 
 Holy Shepherd leads not into. 
 
CONSIDERATIONS 
 
 ON THE 
 
 TRUE HARMONY OF MANKIND, 
 
 HOW IT IS TO BE MAINTAINED. 
 [First Printed in 1770.] 
 
 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 As mankind from one parent are divided into many fami- 
 lies, and as trading to sea is greatly increased within a few 
 ages past ; amidst this extended commerce, how necessary it 
 is that the professed followers of Christ keep sacred his holy 
 name^ and be employed about trade and traffic no farther tlian 
 justice and equity evidently accompany ; that we may give no 
 just cause of offence to any, however distant, or unable to 
 plead their own cause; and may continually keep in view tlie 
 spreading among our fellow-creatures, of the true and saving 
 knowledge of God, and his son Jesus Christ; which, through 
 his infinite love, some feel to be more precious than any other 
 ti-easure. 
 
CONSIDERATIONS, kc. 
 
 " And the vemiiant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many people, 
 as a dew from the Lord, as the sliowers upon the grass, that tarrieth 
 not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men. — Micah v. 7. 
 
 CHAP. I. 
 
 On serving tJie Lord in our outward employments. 
 
 Under the humbling dispensations of the Father of Mercies, 
 I feel an inward labour for the good of my fellow-creatures, 
 and a concern that the Holy Spirit, which alone can restore 
 mankind to a state of true harmony, may, with singleness of 
 heart, be waited for and followed. I trust there are many un- 
 der that visitation, which, if faithfully attended to, will make 
 them quick of understanding in the fear of the Lord, and qua- 
 lify with firmness to be true patterns of the Christian life, who 
 in living and walking may hold forth an invitation to others, 
 to come out of the entanglements of the spirit of this world. 
 
 I feel a care for those who are in difficult circumstances 
 with respect to supporting their families in a way answerable 
 to pure wisdom ; that they may not be discouraged, but re- 
 
member that in humbly obeying the leading of Christ, he own- 
 eth them as his friends : "Ye are my friends, if ye do what- 
 soever I command you;" and tp be a friend to Christ, is to be 
 united to Him who hath all power in Heaven and in Earth ; and 
 though a woman may forget' Tier sucking child, yet will He 
 not forget his faithful ones. 
 
 The condition of many who dwell in cities hath often af- 
 fected me with a brotherly sympathy, attended with a desire, 
 that resignation may be laboured for ; and when the Holy 
 Leader directeth to a country life, or to soifte change of em- 
 ploy, He may be faithfully followed. For, under the refining 
 hand of the Lord, I have seen that the inhabitants of some 
 cities are greatly increased through some branches of business, 
 which his Holy Spirit doth not lead into; and that being en- 
 tangled in these things, tends to bring a cloud over the minds of 
 people who are convinced of the leadings of this holy Director, 
 and to obstruct the coming of the kingdom of Christ on earth. 
 
 Now, if we indulge a desire to imitate our neighbours in 
 those things which harmonize not with the true Christian 
 walking, these entanglements may cleave fast to us ; and some 
 who, in an awakening time, feel tender scruples with respect 
 to their manner of life, may look on the example of others 
 more noted in the church, who yet may not be refined from 
 every degree of dross. By looking on these examples, and 
 desiring to support their families in a way pleasant to the na- 
 tural mind, there may be danger of the worldly wisdom gain- 
 ing strength in them, and of their departure from that pure 
 feeling of truth which, if faithfully attended to, would teach 
 contentment in the Divine will, even in a very low estate. 
 
 One formerly, speaking on the profitableness of true hu- 
 mility, saith, " He that troubles not himself with anxious 
 thoughts for more than is necessary, lives little less than the life 
 of angels ; whilst, by a mind content with little, he imitates 
 
•2f,<J 
 
 their want of nothing.' — Cave's Primitive Christianity, p. 31. 
 
 " It is not enough, say's' TertuUian, that a Christian be 
 chaste and modest, but he must appear to be so : a virtue of 
 which he should have so great a store, that it should flow 
 from his mind upon his habit, and break from the retirements 
 of his conscience, into the superficies of his life." — Ibid. p. 43. 
 
 " The garments we wear, says Clemens, ought to be mean 
 and frugal. That is true simplicity of habit, which takes 
 away what is vain and superfluous ; that the best and most 
 solid garment, which is the farthest from curiosity." — Ibid, 
 p. 49. 
 
 Though the change from day to night is so gradual as 
 scarcely to be perceived, yet when night is come, we behold 
 it very different from the day ; and thus, as people become 
 wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight, cus- 
 toms rise up from the spirit of this world, and spread by little 
 and little, till a departure from the simplicity that there is in 
 Christ, becomes as distinguishable as darkness from light, to 
 such as are crucified to the world. 
 
 Our holy Shepherd, to encourage his flock in firmness and 
 perseverance, reminds them of his love for them : "As the 
 Father hath loved me, so have I loved you ; continue ye in my 
 love ;" and in another -place He graciously points out the 
 danger of departing therefrom, by going into unsuitable em- 
 ployments. This he represents in the similitude of offence 
 from that useful, active member, the hand ; and to fix the in- 
 struction deeper, names the right hand : " If thy right hand 
 offend thee, cut it off, and cast it froni thee," If thou feelest 
 offence in thy employment, humbly follow Him who leads into 
 all truth, and who is a strong and faithful friend to those who 
 are resigned to Him. 
 
 Again, he points out those things which appear pleasant to 
 the natural mind, but which are not best for us, by the simili* 
 
tude of offence i'rom the eye, *if thy right eye offend thee, 
 phick it out, and cast it from tnee." To pluck out tlie eye, 
 or to cut off the hand, isr attended with sharp pain ; and how 
 precious is the instruction which our Redeemer thus opens to 
 us, that we may not faint under the most painful trials, but 
 put our trust in Him, even in Him who sent an angel to feed 
 Elijah in the wilderness, who fed a multitude with a few barley 
 loaves, and who is now as attentive as ever to the wants of his 
 people. 
 
 The prophet Isaiah represents the unrighteous doings of 
 the Israelites towards the poor, as the fruits of an effeminate 
 life : " As for my people, children are their oppressors, and 
 women rule over them. What mean ye that ye beat my people 
 to pieces, and grind the faces of the poor ? saith the Lord 
 God." Thai he mentions the haughtiness of the daughters 
 of Zion, and enumerates many ornaments as instances of 
 their vanity, to uphold which the poor were so hardly dealt 
 with, that he sets forth their poverty, their leanness, and ina- 
 bility to help themselves, in the similitude of a man maimed 
 by violence, or " beaten to pieces," and forced to endure the 
 painful operation of having his face gradually worn away by 
 grinding. 
 
 I may here add that at times, when I have felt true love 
 open my heart towards my fellow-creatures, and have been 
 engaged in weighty conversation in the cause of righteousness, 
 the instructions I have received under these exercises, in re- 
 gard to the true use of the outward gifts of God, have made 
 deep and lasting impressions on my mind. I have beheld how 
 the desire to provide wealth, and to uphold a delicate life, 
 hath grieviously entangled many, and have been like snares to 
 their offspring ; and though some have been affected with a 
 sense of their difficulties, and have appeared desirous at times 
 to be helped out of them ; yet, for want of abiding under the 
 
201 
 
 humbling power of truth, they have continued in these en- 
 tanglements ; this expensive way of living in parents and in 
 children, hath called for a large supply ; and in answering this 
 call, " the faces of the poor" have been ground away, and 
 made thin through hard dealing. 
 
 There is balm ; there is a physician ! and 0, what longings 
 do I feel that we may embrace the means appointed for our 
 healing ; may know that removed which now ministers cause 
 for the cries of many people to ascend to Heaven against their 
 oppressors ; and that we may see the true harmony restored ! 
 Behold " how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to 
 dwell together in unity." The nature of this unity is thus 
 opened by the apostle ; " If we walk in the light, as Christ is 
 in the light, we shall have fellowship one with another, and the 
 blood of Christ will cleanse us from all sin." The land may 
 be polluted with innocent blood, which like the blood of Abel 
 may cry to the Almighty ; but they who " walk in the light, 
 as Christ is in the light," know the " Lamb of God who 
 taketh away sin." 
 
 Walking is a phrase frequently used in Scripture to repre- 
 sent our journey through life, and appears to compreliend the 
 various affairs and transactions relating to our being in this 
 world. Christ being the light, dwells always in the light ; and 
 if our walking be thus, and in every affair and concern we 
 faithfully follow this Divine Leader, he will preserve from 
 giving just cause for any to quarrel with us. When this 
 foundation is laid and mutually kept to, by families convers- 
 ant with each other, the way is open for those comforts in so- 
 ciety, which our heavenly Father intends as a part of our 
 happiness in this world ; and then we may experience the 
 goodness and pleasantness ,of dwelling together in unity ; but 
 when ways of living take place which tend to oppression, and ia 
 the pursuit of wealth, people do that to others which they know 
 
would not be acceptable to themselves, either in exercising an 
 absolute power over them, or otherwise laying on them unequi- 
 table burdens ; they are afraid lest that measure should be 
 meted to them, which they have measured to others ; and 
 therefore endeavour to support by craft and cunning devices 
 that which stands not on the firm foundation of righteous, 
 ness : thus the harmony of society is broken, and hence com- 
 motions and wars do frequently arise in the world. 
 
 " Come out of Babylon, my people, that ye be not parta- 
 kers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues." — 
 Rev. xviii. 4. This Babel or Babylon, was built in the spirit 
 of self-exaltation : " Let us build us a city and a tower, whose 
 top may reach to heaven, and let us make us a name." — Gen. 
 xi. 4. In departing from an humble trust in God, and follow- 
 ing a selfish spirit, people have intentions to get the upper 
 hand of their fellow-creatures, privately meditate on means 
 to obtain their ends, and have a language in their hearts which 
 is hard to understand. In Babel the language is confounded : 
 this city is represented as a place of business, and those em- 
 ployed in it as merchants of the earth : " The merchants of 
 the earth are waxed rich, through the abundance of her deli- 
 cacies.'' Eev. xviii. 3. It is remarkable that the language 
 in this call from the Father of Mercies, is, " Come out of 
 Babylon, my people !" Thus, his tender mercies are towards 
 us in an imperfect state ; and, as we faithfully attend to the 
 call, the path of righteousness is more and more opened : cra- 
 vings which have not their fomidation in pure wisdom, more 
 and more cease; and in an inward purity of heart, we expe- 
 rience a restoration of that which was lost at Babel, represent- 
 ed by the inspired prophet in the " returning of a pure 
 language." Zeph. iii. 9. 
 
 Happy for those who humbly attend to the call, " Come 
 out of Babylon, my people !" For though in going forth we 
 
263 
 
 may meet with trials, which for a time may be painful, yet as 
 we bow in true humility, and continue in it, an evidence is felt 
 that God only is wise ; and that in weaning us from all that 
 is selfish. He prepares the way to a quiet habitation, in which 
 all our desires are bounded by his wisdom. An exercise of 
 spirit attends me, that we who are convinced of the pure 
 leadings of truth, may bow in the deepest reverence, and so 
 watchfully regard this Leader, that many who are grievously 
 entangled in a wilderness of vain customs, may look upon us 
 and be instructed. And O that such as have plenty of this 
 world's goods, may be faithful in that with which they are 
 entrusted, and example others in the true Christian walking ! 
 
 Our blessed Saviour, speaking on worldly greatness, com- 
 pares himself to one waiting on a company at dinner : " Whe- 
 ther is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth ? Is 
 not he that sitteth at meat ? but I am amongst you as he that 
 serveth." Luke xxii. 27. Thus in a world greatly disordered, 
 where men aspiring to outward greatness were wont to op- 
 press others to support their designs. He who was of the high- 
 est descent, being the Son of God, and greater than any among 
 the greatest families of men, by his example and doctrines 
 foreclosed his followers from claiming any show of outward 
 greatness, from any supposed superiority either in themselves, 
 or derived from their ancestors. 
 
 He who was greater than earthly princes, was not only 
 meek and low of heart ; but his outward appearance wgs plain 
 and lowly, and free from every stain of the spirit of this world. 
 Such was the example of our blessed Redeemer, of whom the 
 beloved disciple said, " He that saith he abideth in Him, 
 ought also to walk, even as he walked." 
 
 John Bradford, who suffered martyrdom under Queen 
 Mary, wrote a letter to his friends out of prison, a short time 
 before he was burnt, in which are these expressions : " Con- 
 
sider your dignity as children of God, and temples of. the Ho- 
 ly Ghost, and members of Christ ; be ashamed therefore to 
 think, speak, or do any thing unseemly for God's children 
 and the members of Christ." Fox"s Acts and Monumch-its, 
 p. 1177. 
 
 CHAP. II. 
 
 On the Example of Christ. 
 
 As my mind hath been brought into a brotherly feeling 
 with the poor, who are under trials in regard to getting a 
 living, in a way answerable to the piirity of trjith ; a labour of 
 heart hath attended me, that their way may not be made dif- 
 ficult through the love of money, in those who are tried witli 
 plentiful estates, but that they with tenderness of heart may 
 sympathize with them. It was the saying of our blessed Re- 
 deemer, " Ye cannot serve God and Mammon." There is a 
 deep feeling of the vvay of purity, a way in which the wisdom of 
 the world hath no part, but which is opened by the spirit of 
 truth, and is " called the way of holiness :" a way in which the 
 traveller is employed in watching unto prayer; and the oiitward 
 gain we get in this journey is considered as a trust committed 
 to us, by Him who formed and supports the world, and is the 
 rightful director of the use and application of the produce of it. 
 
 Now, except the mind be preserved chaste, there is no 
 safety .for us ; but in an enstrangement from true resignation, 
 the spirit of the world casts up a way, io which gain is many 
 times principally attended to, and in which there is a selfish 
 application of outward treasures. How agreeable to the true 
 harmony of society, is that exhortation of the apostle ; " Look 
 not every man on his own things, but every man also on the 
 things of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in 
 Christ Jesus." 
 
2Gu 
 
 A person in outward prosperity may have the power of ob- 
 taining riches, but the same niind being in him which is in 
 Christ Jesus, he may feel a tenderness of heart towards those 
 of low degree; and instead of setting himself above them, 
 may look upon it as an unmerited favour, that his way 
 throiigh life is more easy than the way of many others; he 
 may improve every opportunity of leading forth out of those 
 customs which have entangled the family ; employ his time 
 in looking into the wants of the poor members, and hold forth 
 such a perfect example of humiliation, that the pure witness 
 may be reached in many minds ; and the way opened for an 
 harmonious walking together. 
 
 Jesus Christ, in promoting the happiness of others, was not 
 deficient in looking for the helpless who lay in obscurity ; nor 
 did he save any thing to render himself honourable among men, 
 which might have been of more use to the weak members in his 
 Father's family. Of his compassion towards us I may now 
 speak a little. He who was perfectly happy in himself, moved 
 with infinite love, " took not upon him the nature of angels," 
 but our imperfect nature, and theiein wrestled with the tempta- 
 tions which attend us in this life ; and being the Son of Him 
 who is greater than earthly princes, yet he became a compan- 
 ion to poor, sincere-hearted men ; and though he gave the 
 clearest evidence that Divine power attended him, yet the 
 most unfavourable constructions were framed by a self-i'ighte- 
 ous people ; the miracles he performed were represented as the 
 effect of a diabolical power, and endeavours were used to 
 render him hateful, as having his mission from the prince of 
 darkness ; nor did their envy cease till they took him like a 
 criminal, and brought him to trial. Though some may 
 affect the appearance of being unmoved at the apprehension 
 of distress, our dear Eedeemer, who was perfectly sincere, 
 having the same human nature as we have, and feeling a little 
 
before he was apprehended, the weight of that work 
 upon him, for which he came into the world, was "sorrow- 
 ful, even unto death." Here the human nature struggled 
 to be excused from a cup so bitter; but his prayers centred 
 in resignation, "Not my will, but thine be done." In this 
 conflict so great was his agony, that " sweat like drops of 
 blood fell from him to the ground." 
 
 Behold now, as foretold by the prophet, he is in a judicial 
 manner " numbered with the transgressors." Behold him, 
 as some poor man of no reputation, standing before the high 
 priest and elders, and before Herod and Pilate, when wit- 
 nesses appear against him ; and he, mindful of the most gra- 
 cious design of his coming, declining to plead in his own 
 defence, " but as a sheep that is dumb before his shearer," 
 so, under many accusations, revilings, and buffetings, he 
 remained silent. And though he signified to Peter, that he 
 had access to power sufficient to overthrow all their outward 
 forces ; yet, retaining a resignation to suflfer for the sins of 
 mankind, he exerted not that power, but permitted them to go 
 on in their malicious designs, and pronounce Him to be wor- 
 thy of death, €ven Him who was perfect in goodness. Thus"in 
 his humiliation his judgment was taken away," and He, like 
 some vile criminal, was led as a lamb to the slaughter." Under 
 these heavy trials (though poor unstable Pilate was convinced 
 of his innocence) the people generally looked on him as a 
 deceiver, and a blasphemer, and the approaching punishment 
 as a just judgment upon Him. " They esteemed him smitten 
 of God, and afflicted." So great had been the surprise of his 
 disciples, at his being taken by armed men, that they " for- 
 sook him and fled ;" thus they hid their faces from him, he 
 was despised, and by their conduct it appeared as though 
 " they esteemed him not." 
 
 But contrary to the opinion of his being smitten of God 
 
207 
 
 and afflicted, it was for our sakes that "he was put to grief; 
 he was wounded for our transgressions ; he was bruised for 
 our iniquities ;" and under the weight of them, manifesting 
 the deepest compassion for the instruments of his misery, He 
 laboured as their advocate, and in the depths of affliction, with 
 an unconquerable patience cried out, " Father forgive theti; 
 for they know not what they do !" 
 
 Now this mind being in us, which was in Christ Jesus, it 
 removes from our hearts the desire of superiority, worldly 
 honour, or greatness; a deep attention is felt to the Divine 
 counsellor, and an ardent engagement to promote, as far as we 
 may be enabled, the happiness of mankind universally. This 
 state, in which every motion from a selfish spirit yieldeth to 
 pure love, I may with gratitude to the Father of mercies ac- 
 knowledge, is often opened before me as a pearl to dig after ; 
 attended with a living concern, that among the many nations 
 and families of the earth, those who believe in the Messiah, 
 that " he was manifested to destroy the works of the Devil," 
 and thus to " take away the sins of the world," may experi- 
 ence the will of our heavenly Father " to be done on earth as 
 it is in Heaven." Strong are the desires I often feel, that this 
 holy profession may remain unpolluted, and that the believers 
 in Christ may so abide in the jiure, inward feeling of his 
 spirit, that the wisdom from above may shine forth in their 
 lives, as a light by which others may be instrumentally helped 
 on their way, in the true harmonious walking. 
 
 m3 
 
CHAP. III. 
 On Merchandizing. 
 
 When the treasures of pure love are opened, and we obe- 
 diently follow Him who is the light of life, the mind becomes 
 chaste ; and a care is felt, that the unction from the Holy one 
 may be our leader in every undertaking. 
 
 In being crucified to the world, broken off from that 
 friendship which is enmity with God, and dead to the customs 
 find fashions which have not their foundation in the truth; the 
 way is prepared for lowliness in outward living, and for a dis- 
 entanglement from those snares which attend the love of 
 money; and when the faithful friends of Christ are so situated 
 that merchandize appears to be their duty, they feel a restraint 
 from proceeding farther than He owns their proceeding; 
 being convinced that we are not our own, but are bought with 
 a price, that none of us may live to ourselves, but to Him 
 who died for us. Thus they are taught, not only to keep to 
 moderation and uprightness in their dealings, but to consider 
 the tendency of their proceeding ; to do nothing which they 
 know would operate against the cause of universal righteous- 
 ness; and to keep continually in view the spreading of the 
 peaceable kingdom of Christ among mankind. 
 
 The prophet Isaiah spake of the gathered church, under 
 the similitude of a city, in which many being employed, were 
 all preserved in purity : " They shall call them the holy peo- 
 ple, the redeemed of the Lord ; and thou shalt be called 
 Sought ont, A city not forsaken." Ixii. 12. And the apostle, 
 
360 
 
 after mentioning the mystery of Christ's sufferings, ex- 
 horts, " Be ye holy in all manner of conversation." 1 Pet. 
 i. 15. There is a conversation necessary in trade; and there 
 is a conversation so foreign from the nature of Christ's king- 
 dom, that it is represented under the similitude of one man 
 pushing another with a warlike weapon ; " There is that 
 speaketh like the piercings of a sword." Prov. xii. 18. Now 
 in all our concerns it is necessary that the leading of the Spirit 
 of Christ be humbly waited for, and faithfully followed, as 
 the only means of being preserved chaste as an holy people, 
 who "in all things are circumspect," Exdd. xxiii. 13; that 
 nothing which we do may carry the appearance of an appro- 
 bation of the works of wickedness, make the unrighteous 
 more at ease in unrighteousness, or occasion the injuries com- 
 mitted against the oppressed to be more lightl)' regarded. 
 
 When morality is kept to, and supported by the inhabitants 
 of a country, a certain reproach attends those individuals 
 among them, who manifestly deviate therefrom. Thus, if a 
 person of good report be charged with stealing goods out of 
 an open shop, in the day time, and on a public trial be 
 found guilty, and the law be put in execution, he sustains 
 a loss of reputation ; but if he be convicted a second and 
 third time of the like offence, his good name woul^ cease 
 among them who knew these things. If his neighbour, 
 reputed an honest man, be charged with buying goods of this 
 thief, knowing they were stolen, and on a pubhc trial be found 
 guilty, this purchaser would meet with dis-esteem ; but if he 
 knowingly persisted in buying stolen goods, and was publicly 
 convicted thereof a second and a third time, he would no loiigtr 
 be considered an honest man by those who knew these things ; 
 nor would it appear of good report, to be found in his company 
 or buying his traffic, till some evident tokens of sincere 
 repentance appeared in him ; but when iniquity is committed 
 
270 
 
 openly, and the authors of it are not brought to justice, nor 
 put to shame, their hands grow strong. Thus, the general 
 corruption of the Jews, shortly before their state was broken 
 up by the Chaldeans, is described by their boldness in impiety ; 
 for as their leaders were connected together in wickedness, 
 they strengthened one another, and grew confident ; " Were 
 they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, 
 they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush :" Jer. 
 vi. 15. On which account the Lord thus expostulates with 
 them. "What hath my beloved to do in my house, seeing 
 she hath wrought lewdness with many, and the holy flesh is 
 passed from thee? when thou doest evil, then thou rejoicest." 
 Jer. xi. 15. 
 
 Now — the faithful friends of Christ, who hunger and thirst 
 after righteousness, and who inwardly breathe that His king- 
 dom may "come on earth as it is in heaven," are taught to 
 be quick of understanding in his fear, and to be very attentive 
 to the means he may appoint for promoting pure righteous- 
 ness in the earth ; and as shame is due to those whose works 
 manifestly operate against the gracious design of his suffering 
 for us, a care hves on their minds that no wrong customs, 
 however supported, may bias their judgments ; but that, 
 they r^ay humbly abide under the cross, and be preserved 
 in a conduct which may not contribute to strengthen the 
 hands of the wicked in their wickedness, or to remove shame 
 from those to whom it is justly due. The coming of that day 
 is precious in which we experience the truth of this expression, 
 "The Lord our righteousness ;" Jer. xxiii. 6., and feel him to 
 be made " unto us wisdom and sanctification." 
 
 The example of a righteous man is often looked at 
 with attention. When righteous men join in business, they 
 give encouragement to others ; one grain of incense delibe- 
 rately offered to the prince of this world, renders an offering 
 to God unacceptable; and, from those esteemed leaders 
 
271 
 
 of the people, may be injurious to the weak; it therefore re- 
 quires deep humility of heart, to follow Him faithfully, who 
 alone gives sound wisdom, and the spirit of true discerning. O 
 how necessary it is to consider the weight of a holy profession ! 
 The conduct of some formerly, gave" occasion of complaint 
 against them, " Thou hast defiled thy sanctuaries by the 
 multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffic ;" 
 Ezek. xxviii. 18; and in several places it is charged against 
 Israel that they had polluted the Holy name. 
 
 The prophet Isaiah represents inward sanctification under 
 the similitude of being purged from that which is fuel for fire ; 
 and particularly describes the outward fruits, brought forth by 
 those who dwell in this inward holiness ; " they walk righte- 
 ously, and speak uprightly." By walking, he represents the 
 journey through life, as a righteous journey; and by speak- 
 ing uprightly, he seems to point at that which Moses appears 
 to have had H|kw, when he thus expressed himself,. " Thou, 
 shalt not fouow a multitude to do evil, neither shalt thou 
 speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment." 
 Exod. xxiii. 2. 
 
 He goes on to show their firmness in equity ; represent- 
 ing them as persons superior to all the arts of getting money, 
 which have not righteousness for their foundation ;" They 
 despise the gain of oppressions;" and he further shows how 
 careful they are that no prospects of gain, may induce them to 
 become partial in judgment respecting an injury ; " They 
 shake their hands from holding bribes." 
 
 Again, when any interest is so connected with shedding 
 blood, that the cry of innocent blood goes also with it ; he 
 points out their care to keep innocent blood from crying 
 against them, under the similitude of a man stopping his ears 
 to prevent a sound from entering his head, " They stop their 
 ears from hearing blood;" and when they know that wicked- 
 
272 
 
 ness is committed, he points out their care, that they should 
 not, by an unguarded friendship with the authors of it, appear 
 hke unconcerned lookers on, but as people so deeply affected 
 with sorrow, that they cannot endure to stand by and behold 
 it ; this he represents under the similitude of a man " shutting 
 his eyes from seeing evil." 
 
 He proceeds, in the spirit of prophecy, to show how the 
 faithful, being supported under temptations, would be preserved 
 from defilement by the love of money ; that as they, who in a 
 reverent waiting on God, feel their strength renewed, are said 
 to "mount iipward;" so here their preservation from the 
 snare of unrighteous gain, is represented by the likeness of a 
 man borne up above all crafty, artful means of getting the 
 advantage of another, " He shall dwell on high;" and he points 
 out the stability and firmness of their condition, "His place of 
 defence shall be the munition of rocks ;" and that, under all 
 outward appearance of loss, in denying jKself gainful 
 profits for righteousness' sake, through the <53fe of Him who 
 provides for the sparrows, he should yet have a supply an- 
 swerable to His infinite wisdom, " Bread shall be given him, 
 his waters shall be sure." As our Saviour mentions the 
 sight of God to be attainable by " the pure in heart ;" so 
 here the prophet points out how, in true sanctification, the 
 understanding is opened to behold the peaceable, harmo- 
 nious nature of His kingdom, " Thine eyes shall see the 
 King in his beauty ;" and that looking beyond all the af- 
 flictions which attend the righteous, to " a habitation eternal' 
 in the heavens," they with an eye divinely opened, " shall be- 
 hold the land that is very far off." 
 
 I often remember, and to me the subject is awful, that the 
 great judge of all the earth doeth that which is right, and 
 that He " before whom the nations are as the drop of a 
 bucket," is "no respecter of persons." Happy for those who, 
 
273 
 
 like the inspired prophet, " in the way of his judgments 
 wait for Him." When we feel Him to sit as a refiner with 
 fire, and know a resignedness wrought in us, to that which 
 He appoints for us, his blessing in a vevy- low estate will be 
 found to be more precious, than much outward treasure in 
 those ways of life, in which the leadings of His spirit are not 
 followed. 
 
 The prophet foreseeing a Divine work among many people, 
 declared in the name of the Lord, " I will gather all nations 
 and tongues, and they shall come and see my glory." Isaiah 
 Ixvi. 18. And again, " from the rising of the sim even luito 
 the going down of the same, my name shall be great among 
 the Gentiles ; and in every place incense shall be offered unto 
 my name, and a pure offering." Malachii. 11. From this it 
 is evident that the prophets had an inward sense of the spread- 
 ing of the kingdom of Christ : He was spoken of as one who 
 should take the heathen for his inheritance, and the utter- 
 most parts of the earth for his possession. Psal. ii. 8. Also 
 that He should be given for a light to the Gentiles; and for 
 salvation unto the ends of the earth. Isaiah xlix. 6. 
 
 When we meditate on this Divine work, as a work of ages ; 
 a work which the prophets felt long before Christ appeared 
 visibly on earth, and remember the bitter agonies He endured 
 when He "poured out his soul unto death," that the Heathen 
 nations as well as others, might come to the knowledge of the 
 truth and be saved ; — When we contemplate this marvellous 
 work, as that which " the angels desire to look into," 1 Pet. 
 i. 12 ; and behold people among whom this light hath eminent- 
 ly broken forth, and who have received many favours from 
 the bountiful hand of our Heavenly Father, not only indiffer- 
 ent with respect to publishing the glad tidings among the 
 Gentiles, who are sitting in darkness, and entangled with 
 many superstitions; but who, aspiring after wealth and worldly 
 
 m3 
 
274 
 
 honours, and taking such means to obtain their ends, as tend 
 to stir up wrath and indignation, and to beget an abhorrence 
 in thetn to the name of Christianity ; — When these things are 
 weightily attended to, how mournful is the subject ! 
 
 It is worthy of remembrance, that people in different ages, 
 deeply baptized into the nature of that work for which Christ 
 suffered, have joyfulh' offered up their liberty and lives for 
 the promoting of it in the earth. 
 
 Polycarp, who was reputed a disciple of the apostle John, 
 having attained to great age, was at length sentenced to die for 
 his religion ; and being brought to the fire, prayed nearly as 
 follows, "Thou God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, by 
 wham I have received the knowledge of thee ! God of 
 the angels and powers, and of every living creature, and of all 
 sorts of just men which live in thy presence ; I thank thee 
 that thou hast graciously vouchsafed this day and this hour to 
 allot me a portion among the number of martyrs, among the 
 people of Christ, unto the resurrection of everlasting life ; 
 among whom I shall be^ received in thy sight this day, as a 
 fruitful and acceptable sacrifice ; wherefore for all this I praise 
 thee, I bless thee,I glorify thee, through the everlasting High- 
 priest, Jesus Christ, thy well beloved son ; to whom, with thee 
 and the Holy Ghost, be all glory, world without end. Amen." 
 
 Bishop Latimer, when sentence of death by fire was pro- 
 nounced against him, on account of his firmness in the cause 
 of religion, said, "I thank God most heartily, that he hath 
 prolonged my life to this end ; that I may, in this case, glorify 
 him by this kind of death." Fox's Acts and Mon. 936. 
 
 William Dewsbury, who had suffered much for his religion, 
 in his last sickness, encouraging his friends to faithfulness, 
 made mention like good old Jacob, of the loving kindness of 
 God to him in the course of his life, and that through the 
 power of Divine love, he, for Christ's sake, had joyfully en- 
 tered prisons. See introduction to his works. 
 
275 
 
 I mention these, as a few examples out of many, of the 
 powerful operation of the spirit of Christ, when people are fully 
 devoted to it, and of the ardent longings in their minds for the 
 spreading of his kingdom among mankind. Now to those in 
 the present age, who truly know Christ, and who feel the na- 
 ture of his peaceable government opened in their understand- 
 ings, how loudly is the call to faithfulness ;. that in following 
 this pure Light of life, " we, as workers together with Him," 
 may labour in that great work for which He was offered as a 
 sacrifice on the cross ; and that His peaceable doctrines 
 may shine through us in their real harmony, at. a time 
 when the name of Christianity is become hateful to many. o£ 
 the heathens. 
 
 When Gehazi had obtained treasures, which the prophet, 
 under Divine direction, had refused, and was returned from 
 the business ; the prophet troubled at his conduct^, queried if 
 it was a time thus to prepare for a specious living. "Is it a 
 time to receive money, and to receive garments, men servants 
 and maid servants ? the leprosy therefore of Naaman shall 
 cleave unto thee and unto thy seed for ever." 2 Kings v. 26. 
 that we may lay to heart the condition of the present time ; 
 and humbly follow His counsel, who alone is able to prepare; 
 the way for a true harmonious walking among mankind ! 
 
27a 
 
 CHAP IV. 
 On Divine Admonitions. 
 
 Such are the perfections of our Heavenly Father, that in 
 all the dispensations of his providence, it is our duty " in 
 every thing to give thanks." Though from the first settle- 
 ment of this part of America, He hath not extended his judg- 
 ments so as to produce famine, yet worms at times have 
 come forth beyond numbering, and have laid waste fields of 
 grain and grass ; another kind also in great multitudes, work- 
 ing out of sight in grass ground, have so eaten the roots, that 
 the surface, being loosened from the soil beneath, might be 
 taken off in great sheets. 
 
 These devouring creatures appearing seldom, and in such 
 multitudes, their generation appears different from most other 
 reptiles, and they were called by the prophet " God's army 
 sent among the people." Joel ii. 25. 
 
 There have been tempests of hail, which have very much 
 destroyed the grain where they extended. Through long 
 drought in summer, grain in some places hath been less than 
 half the usual quantity ; * and I have beheld with attention, 
 from week to week, how dryness from the top of the earth 
 hath extended deeper and deeper, while the corn and plants 
 have languished ; and, with reverence, my mind hath been 
 turned towards Him, who being perfect in goodness, wisdom 
 
 * When crops fail, I often feel a tender care tliat the case of poor 
 tenants may \>e mercifully considered. 
 
377 
 
 and power, doeth all things right. After long drought, when 
 the sky hath grown dark with a collection of matter, and 
 clouds like lakes of water have hung over our heads, from 
 which the thirsty land hath been soaked ; I have at times with 
 awfulness beheld the vehement operation of lightning, made 
 sometimes to accompany these blessings, as a messenger from 
 Him who created all things, to remind us of our duty in a right 
 use of those benetits, and to give striking admonitions, that 
 we do not misapply those gifts, which an Almighty power 
 bestows upon us. 
 
 When I consider that many of our fellow creatures suffer 
 much in some places, for want of the necessaries of life, whilst 
 those who rule over them are too much given to luxury, and 
 divers vanities; and behold the apparent deviation from pure 
 wisdom among. us, in the use of the outward gifts of Gcd ; 
 those marks of famine appear like humbling admonitions from 
 Him, that we might be instructed by gentle chastisements, and 
 might seriously consider our ways ; and remember that the 
 outward supply of life is a gift from our heavenly Father, and 
 that we should not venture to use, or to apply his gifts, in a 
 way contrary to pure wisdom. 
 
 Should we continue to reject those merciful admonitions, 
 and to use his gifts at home, contrary to the gracious design of 
 the giver, or to send them abroad in a way of trade, which the 
 spirit of truth doth not lead into ; and should He, whose 
 eyes are upon all our ways, extend his chastisements so far as 
 to reduce us to much greater distress than hath yet been felt 
 by these provinces, with what sorrow of heart might we me- 
 ditate on this remonstrance, "Hast thou not procured this 
 unto thyself, in that thou hast forsaken the Lord thy God, 
 when He led thee by the way ? Thine own wickedness shall 
 correct thee, and thy backslidings shall reprove thee; know 
 therefore and see, thatit is an evil thing and bitter, that thou 
 
ast forsaken the Lord thy God,* and that my fear is not in 
 lee, saith the Lord God of hosts." Jer. ii. 17 — 19. 
 My "mind hath often been affected with sorrow, in beholding 
 wrong application of the gifts of our Heavenly Father ; and 
 lese expressions concerning the defilement of the earth have 
 een opened to my understanding, " The earth also was cor- 
 upt before God, and the earth was filled with violence." 
 len. vi. 11. Again, "The earth also is defiled under the 
 ihabitants thereof, be.cause they have broken the everlasting 
 ovenant." Isaiah xxiv. 5. The earth being the work of a 
 )ivine power, may not as such be accounted unclean ; but 
 'hen violence is committed thereon, and the channel of right- 
 ousness is so obstructed, that " in our skirts is found the 
 lood of the souls of poor innocents ; not by a secret search, 
 ':t upon all these;" Jerem. ii. 34. * — when blood shed 
 nrighteously, remains unatoned for, and the inhabitants are 
 ot effectually purged from it, when they do not wash their 
 ands in innocency, as was figured in the law, in the case of 
 ne being found slain ; but seek for gain arising fromscenes of 
 iolence and oppression, it may be said, "the land is-polliited 
 ith blood." Moreover, when the earth is planted and tilled, 
 lid its fruits are applied to support unrighteous purposes, 
 le gracious design of infinite goodness, in these his gifts, 
 eing perverted, the earth is defiled; and the complaint for- 
 lerly uttered becomes applicable: "Thou hast made me 
 ) serve with thy sins ; thoii hast wearied me with thine ini- 
 uities." Isaiah xliii. 24. 
 
 * See a caution and warning to Great Britain and her colonies by 
 nthony Benezet, page 31. 
 
270 
 
 REMARKS 
 
 ON 
 
 SUNDRY SUBJECTS. 
 [First printed in London, 1773.] 
 
 CHAP. I. 
 On loviny our ncighhours as ourselves. 
 
 When we love the Lord with all our hearts, and his crea- 
 tures in his love, we are then preserved in tenderness both 
 towards mankind and the animal creation; but if another 
 spirit gets room in our minds, and we follow it in our proceed- 
 ings, we are then in the way of disordering the affairs of so- 
 ciety. People may have no intention to oppress, yet by 
 entering on expensive ways of life, their minds may be. so 
 entangled, and so engaged to support e.xpensive customs, as to 
 be estranged from the pure, sympathizing spirit. 
 
 As I have travelled 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 towards 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. 
 Among them there are some that are weak through age, and 
 
280. 
 
 ithers of a weakly nature who pass through straits, in very 
 rivate life, without asking relief from the public. 
 
 Weakly persons in the field and in the shops, and women 
 fho spin and knit in the manufactories, in performing what 
 ( esteemed a day's labour by the strong and healthy, often 
 xperienc-e much weariness, and many sighs I believe are 
 ttered in secret, unheard by some who might ease their 
 urdens. The hardships of the poor are sometimes increased 
 irough want of more agreeable nourishment, more plentiful 
 ael, andwarmer clothing in the winter, than their wages will 
 rocure. 
 
 When I have beheld plenty in some houses to a degree of 
 ixury ; the condition of poor children who are brought up 
 ithout learning, and the weakly and aged who strive to 
 ve by their labour, have often revived in my mind ; and of 
 'hich some who live in fulness need to be put in remembrance, 
 'ew if any could behold their fellow creatures lie long in dis- 
 ■ess, and forbear to help them, when they could do it without 
 ly inconvenience ; but customs requiring much labour to 
 ipport them, often lie heavy on the poor ; while they who 
 ve in these customs are so entangled in a multitude of unne- 
 jssary concerns, that they think but little of the hardships 
 hich the poor people go through. 
 
 If several principal men in business to provide for unne- 
 ssary expense in their families, unite in fixing the wages 
 
 those who work for hire, so that by moderate indus- 
 y they will not afford a comfortable living for their fa- 
 illes, and a proper education for their children ; it is 
 le laying a temptation in the way of some to strive for a 
 gher place than they are in, when they have not stock suf- 
 nent for it. 
 
 Now I feel a concern in the spring of pure love, that all 
 ho have plenty of outward substance, may example others 
 
281 
 
 in the right use of things ; and carefully look into the condition 
 of poor people, not abridging them of their due with regard 
 to wages. While hired labourers may, by moderate industry 
 and the Divine blessing, 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 man- 
 kind universally, their place in society is a place of care, an 
 office requiring attention. The more we possess, the greater 
 is our trust, and with an increase of treasure, an inci'ease 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-crea- 
 tures, 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 man- 
 kind, and appointed a subsistence for us in this world. A 
 desire of treasures from any other motive, appears to be 
 against that command of our blessed Saviour, " Lay not up 
 for yourselves treasures on earth." Matt. vi. 19. He forbids 
 not laying up in the summer against the wants of winter ; nor 
 doth He teach us to be slothful in worldly business ; but in 
 this prohibition He puts in yourselves; "Lay not up for 
 yourselves treasures upon 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 suffered. In this state of mind our desires are, 
 that every honest member in society may have a portion of 
 
282 
 
 treasure, and a share of trust, answerable to that gift, with which 
 our heavenly Father hath gifted us ; for to abide in the love 
 of Christ, and to 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 concern attends me to 
 open it to others. To act with integrity, according to that 
 strength of mind and body with which our Creator hath en- 
 dowed each of us, is necessary for all ; and he who thus stands 
 in the lowest station, is entitled to as comfortable and conveni- 
 ent 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 ; they may, by the 
 strength of contrivance, 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, disorder the affairs of society ; 
 hereby the good gifts of God are turned into the channels of 
 worldly honour, and are frequently applied to support luxury; 
 while the wages of poor labourers are such, that with mode- 
 rate industry and frugality, they are unable to live comfortably, 
 raise up families, and give them suitable education; but 
 through the straitness of their condition, they are often drawn 
 
283 
 
 on to labour under weariness, to toil through hardships them- 
 selves, and frequently to oppress those useful animals with 
 which we are entrusted, Throughout all ages, Divine love is 
 that alone in which dominion has been, is, and will be rightly 
 conducted. 
 
 In this harmony, the endowments of men are so employed 
 that the friend and the governor are united in one ; and oppres- 
 sive customs come to an end. Riches in the hands of indi- 
 viduals in society, are attended with some degree of power ; 
 and so far as power is put forth separate from pure love, so 
 far the gover.iment 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 suppl}' for the inhabitants from 
 one generation to another, and they who walk in the pure light, 
 are prepared to taste and relish, not only the blessings which 
 are spiritual, but also to feel a sweetness and satisfaction in a 
 right use of the good gifts of God in the visible creation. Thus 
 we see that man's happiness stands not in great possessions, 
 but in a heart devoted to follow Christ, in that use of things, 
 in which 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 unto 
 you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters." 2 Cor. vi. 18. 
 
 In labouring to attain a right end it is necessary to keep to 
 right means. If, in striving to shun poverty, we strive only 
 in that state in which Christ is the light of our life, our la- 
 bours will stand in the true harmony of society : but if people 
 are confident that the end aimed at is good, and in this confi- 
 
284 
 
 dence pursue it so eagerly, as not to wait for the Spirit o 
 truth to lead them, then they come to loss. Christ is given tc 
 be " a leader and commander to the people." Isaiah Iv. 4 
 Again ; " The Lord shall guide thee continually.'' Isaial 
 Iviii. 11. Again; " Lord thou wilt ordain peace for us: foi 
 thou also hast vvrought all our works in us," Isaiah xxvi 12 
 "In the Lord have I righteousness and strength." Isaial 
 xlv. 24. 
 
 In this state our minds would be preserved watchful ; wi 
 should follow the leadings of the spirit of Christ in all our pro^ 
 ceedings in this world ; and a care woTild be felt for a genera 
 reformation ; that our own posterity, with the rest of man- 
 kind in succeeding ages, might not be entangled by oppressivi 
 customs, transmitted through our hands. But if people in th( 
 narrowness of natural love, are afraid that their children wil 
 be oppressed by the rich ; and, through an eager desire to ge 
 treasures, depart from the pure leadings of truth in one case 
 though it rnay seem to be a small matter, yet the mind, evei 
 in that small matter, may be emboldened to continue in a wai 
 of proceeding, without waiting for the Divine Leader. Thui 
 people may grow expert in business, wise in the vcisdom o 
 this world, retain a fair reputation among men, and yet, beinj 
 strangers to the voice of Christ, the safe leader of his flock 
 the treasures thus gotten may be like snares to tlft feet o 
 their posterity. But in keeping faithful to the pure counsel 
 lor, and, under trying circumstances, suffering adversity fo 
 righteousness' sake, there is a reward. 
 
 If we, being poor, are hardly dealt with by those who ar 
 rich, and under this difficulty are frugal and industrious, ani 
 in true humility open our case to them who oppress us, th 
 pure witness in their minds may be reached ; and though w 
 should remain under difficulties as to the outward, yet if w 
 abide in the love of Christ, all will work for our gooc 
 
235 
 
 When we feel what it is to suffer in the true suffering state, 
 we experience the truth of these expressions ; "As the suffer, 
 ings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth 
 by Christ." 2 Cor. i. 5. But if we who are of a middle station 
 between riches and poverty, are affected at times with the op- 
 pressions of the poor, and feel a tender regard for our poste- 
 rity after us ; how necessary it is that we wait for the pure 
 counsel of truth ! Many have seen the hardships of the poor, 
 and feel 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 among our fellow-crea- 
 tures ! 
 
 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 self- 
 love, and our life being " hid with Christ in God," our 
 hearts are enlarged towards mankind universally ; but in de- 
 parting from the true light of life, many in striving to get 
 treasures have " stumbled on the dark mountains." That 
 purity of life which proceeds from faithfulness in following 
 the pure spirit of truth, that state in which our minds are de- 
 voted to serve God, and all our wants are bounded by his 
 wisdom ; has often been opened to me, as a place of retire- 
 ment for the children of the light, in which we may be separa- 
 ted from that which disordereth and confuseth the affairs of 
 society, and 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, and in- 
 troducing ways of life attended with unnecessary expenses, 
 man)' wants have arisen, the minds of people have been em- 
 ployed in studying to get wealth, in the pursuit ( f which some 
 
286 
 
 departing from equity, have retained a profession of religion 
 others have looked at their example, and have thereby bee 
 strengthened to proceed further in the same way : thus man 
 have encouraged the trade of taking men from Africa, an 
 selling them as slaves. 
 
 It hath been computed, that near -one hundred thousan 
 negros have, of late years, been annually taken from tha 
 coast, by ships employed in the English trade. As I hav 
 travelled on religious visits in some parts of America, I hav 
 seen many of these people under the command of over 
 seers, in a painful servitude. I have beheld them as Gen 
 tiles, under people professing Christianity, not only kep 
 ignorant of the Holy Scriptures, but under great provocation 
 to wrath ; of whom it may truly be said, " They that ml 
 • over them make them to howl, " Isaiah lii. 5. and the Hoi 
 Name is abundantly blasphemed. When children are taugh 
 to read the sacred writings while yoimg, and exampled ii 
 meekness and humility, it is often helpful to them, nor is thi 
 any more than a debt due from us to a succeeding age. Bu 
 when youth are pinched for want of the necessaries of life 
 forced to labour hard under the harsh rebukes of rigorou 
 overseers, and many times endure unmerciful whippings ; ii 
 such an education, how great are the disadvantages they Ii 
 under! And how forcibly do these things work against th 
 increase of the government of the Prince of peace ! 
 
 Humphrey Smith in his works, p. 12-5, speaking of th 
 tender feeling of the love of God in his heart when he was 
 child, says, " By the violent wrathful nature that ruled i 
 others, was my quietness disturbed, and anger begotten in m 
 toward them ; yet that of God in me was not wholly overcome 
 but his love was felt in my heart, and great was my grit 
 when the earthly-miudedness and wrathful nature so pro 
 Yoked me that I was estranged from it. And this I write a 
 ,1 warning to parents and others, that in the fear of the livin; 
 
287 
 
 God, you may train up the youth, and may not be a means of 
 bringing them into such ahenation." 
 
 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 which is pure 
 and peaceable, hath been great. Under the sense of a deep re- 
 volt, and an overflowing stream of unrighteousness, my life 
 has often been 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 written by people who wer^ ac- 
 quainted with the manner of getting slaves in Africa. I 
 have had verbal relations of this nature from several negros 
 brought from Africa, who have learned to talk English. I 
 have also sundry times heard Englishmen speak on this sub- 
 ject, who have been in Africa on this business ; and from all 
 these accounts it appears that great violence is committed, and 
 much blood is shed in getting slaves from Africa. 
 
 When three or four hundred slaves are put in the hold of 
 a vessel in a hot climate, their breathing soon infects the air. 
 Were that number of free people to go as passengers with all 
 things proper for their voyage, inconvenience would arise from 
 their number: but slaves are taken by violence, and frequent- 
 ly endeavour to kill the white people, that they may return to 
 their native land. Hence they are often kept under such 
 confinement, that a scent ariseth in the hold of the ship, and 
 distempers often break out among 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- thus, with grief, with different diet from 
 what has been common with them, and with hard labour, some 
 
288 
 
 thousands are computed to die every year, in what is called 
 the seasoning. 
 
 Thus it appears that great numbers of these people are 
 every year brought to an untimely end ; being innocent people 
 v/ho suffer under hard-hearted men, even unto death ; and the 
 channels of equity are so obstructed, that the cause of the suf- 
 ferers is not judged in righteousness, " but the land is defiled 
 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 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 as live under a right feeling of our con- 
 dition as a nation, will I trust 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 through the example of others, have 
 often been unmoved at the most serious warnings. 
 
 Through abiding in the love of Christ, we feel a tenderness 
 in our hearts towards our fellow-creatures who are entangled 
 in oppressive customs ; and a concern so to walk, that our 
 conduct may not be a means of strengthening them in error. 
 It was the command of the Lord through Moses, " Thou 
 shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart : thou shalt in 
 any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him." 
 Lev. xix. 17. Agaii', " Keep thee far from a false matter; and 
 the innocent and righteous slay lliou not." Exod. xxiii. 7. 
 
 The prophet Isaiah mentions that the true church, in time 
 
•289 
 
 of outward quiet, should not only be clear of oppression, 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, 
 ll^n thou consentedst with him." Psal. l. 18. 
 
 The prophet Jeremiah represents the degrees of prepara- 
 tion towards idolatrous sacrifice, by the similitude of a work 
 carried on by children, men, and women : " The children 
 gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women 
 knead their dough to make cakes to the queen of heaven." 
 Jer. vii. 18. It was a complaint of the Lord against Israel, 
 through his prophet Ezekiel, that " they strengthened the 
 hands of the wicked, and made the heart of the righteous sad." 
 Ezek. xiii. 22. Some works of iniquity carried on by the 
 people, were represented by the prophet Ilosea, in the simili- 
 tude of ploughing, reaping, and eating the fruit : " Ye have 
 ploughed wickedness, ye have reaped iniquity, ye have eaten 
 the fruit of lies, because thou didst trust in thy way, in the 
 multitude of thy mighty men." Hosea x. 13. 
 
 Our blessed Saviour, speaking of the people in the old 
 world, said, " They did eat, they drank, they married wives, 
 they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered 
 into the arkj and the flood came and destroyed them all." Luke 
 xvii. 27. The like he spake concerning the people of Sodom, 
 who are also represented by the prophet as haughty, luxu- 
 rious, and oppressive: "This was the iniquity of Sodom: 
 pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her, 
 and in her daughters ; neither did she strengthen the hand of 
 the poor and needy." Ezek. xvi. 49. 
 
 Now in a revolt so deep as this, when much blood has 
 
 N 
 
been shed unrighteously in carrying on the slave-trade, and in 
 supporting the practice of keeping slaves, ^yhich 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 more unrighteousness is commit- 
 ted, the state of things is very moving. 
 
 There is a natural love ; and when a parent beholds his child 
 in misery, he hath a feeling of his affliction ; but in Divine lofH 
 the heart is enlarged towards mankind universally, and pre- 
 pared to sympathize with strangers, though in the lowest sta- 
 tions 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 do we deal treacherously 
 every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of 
 our fathers ?" Mai. ii. 10. 
 
 He who of old heard the groans of the children of Israel, 
 under the hard task-masters in Egypt, hath, I trust, looked 
 down from his holy habitation on the miseries of these deeply 
 oppressed people. Many lives have been shortened through 
 extreme oppression, by labouring to support luxury and 
 worldly greatness ; and though many people in outward 
 prosperity may think little of these things, yet the gracious 
 Creator hath regard to the cries of th« innocent, however un- 
 noticed 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 advocaHSs ; 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, being made to labour 
 too hard, are kept on a diet less comfortable than their weak 
 state requires, and are exposed to great difficulties under hard- 
 hearted men. To their sufferings I have often been a witness; 
 
291 
 
 and under the heart-melting power of Divine love, their mi-s- 
 ery hath felt to me like the misery of my parents. Innocent 
 youths are taken by violence from their friends and native land, 
 and put on board ships with hearts laden with sorrow ; exposed 
 to great hardships at* sea ; and placed under people, where their 
 lives are attended with great provocation to anger and revenge. 
 With the condition of these youths my mind hath often been 
 affected, as with tlie afflictions of my children ; and, in a feel- 
 ing of the misery of these people, and of that great offence 
 which is ministered to them, my tears have often been poured 
 out before the Lord. 
 
 That Holy Spirit which affected my heart when I was a 
 youth is, I trust, often felt by the negros 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 princi- 
 ple in their hearts, how might the Holy Name have been 
 honoured among the Gentiles ! and how might we have re- 
 joiced in the fulfilling of that prophecy, " I the Lord love 
 judgment, I hate robbery for burnt-offering ; and I will direct 
 their work in truth, and I v/ill make an everlasting covenant 
 with them. And their seed shall be known among the Gen- 
 tiles, and their offspring among the people : all that see them 
 shall acknowledge them, that they are the seed which the Lord 
 hath blessed." Isaiah Ixi. 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 salva- 
 tion in his name ! How are the sufferings of our blessed Redeem- 
 er set at nought, and his name blasphemed among the Gentiles, 
 through the unrighteous proceedings of his professed follow- 
 ers ! 
 
 My mind hath often been affected, even from the days of 
 k2 
 
292 
 
 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 be- 
 lievers in Christ experience, by which they are redeemed 
 from pride and covetousness, and brought into a state of 
 meekness, their hearts being enlarged in true love towards 
 their feUow-creatures universally, is precious to me ; and the 
 spreading of the knowledge of the truth among the Gentiles 
 is very desirable. But the professed followers of Christ join- 
 ing in customs evidently unrighteous, manifestly tending 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 souls stead 4" if we con- 
 sider 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 among our oppressors, and therewith felt an 
 increase of the weight of our burdens, and expected our pos- 
 terity to groan under oppression after us : — ^under all this mis- 
 ery, 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 afilicted us, continued to lay claim to 
 religion, and were assisted in their business by others, who 
 were esteemed pious people, and, through a friendship with 
 them, strengthened their hands in tyranny ; when we were 
 hunger-bitten, and could not have sufficient nourishment, but 
 saw them in fulness pleasing their taste with things fetched 
 from afar ; when wearied with labour, if we were denied the 
 liberty to rest, and saw them spending their time at ease : if 
 garments answerable to our necessities were denied us, while 
 
293 
 
 we saw them clothed 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 mentioned 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 miser)', 
 and they who suffer hy it are some thousand miles off, the 
 danger is the greater of not laying their sufferings to heart, 
 la procuring slaves on the coast of Africa, many children are 
 stolen privately ; wars also are encouraged among the ne- 
 gros, 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 tj^ranny 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 on&year only, to be eye-witnesses 
 of what passeth in getting these slaves ; were the blood that 
 is there shed, to be sprinkled on our garments ; were the poor 
 captives, bound with thongs, and heavily 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 sleep- 
 ing ; were we to hear the sound of the tumult, when the 
 slaves on board the ships attempt to kill the English, and be- 
 hold the issue of those bloody conflicts ; what pious man 
 could behold these things, and see a trade carried on in this 
 manner, without being deeply affected with sorrow ! 
 
294 
 
 CHAP. IV. 
 
 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 expense attends that which is called Divine worship : 
 a considerable part of this expense is applied towards out- 
 ward greatness, and many poorpeople in raising of tithe, la- 
 bour for the support of customs contrary to the simplicity 
 which is in Christ; towards them my mind hath often been 
 moved with pity. 
 
 In pure, silent worship, we dwell under the Holy anoint- 
 ing, 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 perceived how little 
 some of them know 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. 
 
 • Chapters 2nd and 3rd " On Trading in Superfluities," and 
 " On a Sailor's life," are omitted, being principally a repetition of 
 tlie sentiments which have already appeared in the journal. See 
 pages 147, 148, 162, &c. 
 
295 
 
 Such is the load of unnecessary expense which attends 
 what is called Diving service in many places, and so much are 
 the minds of many people employed in outward forms and 
 ceremonies, that the introduction of an inward, silent worship 
 in this nation, hath appeared to me to be a precious opening. 
 Within the last four hundred years, many pious people 
 have been deeply exercised in soul on account of the super- 
 stition which prevailed among the professed followers of Christ ; 
 and in support of their testimony against oppressive idolatry, 
 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 were gradually 
 opened, and the minds of people, from age to age, were pre- 
 pared for a real spiritual worship. 
 
 %Iy mind is often affected with a sense of the condition of 
 those people who,, in different ages, have meekly and patiently 
 followed Christ thraugh great afHiotions :, and while I behold 
 the several steps of reformation, and that clearness to which, 
 through Divuie goodness, it hath been- brought by our ances- 
 tors ; I feel tender desires that we, who sometimes meet in si- 
 lence, may never, by our conduct, lay stumbling-blocks in the 
 way of others, and hinder the progress of 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 wor- 
 ship, 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 m following Him, our lives 
 will have an inviting language, and the table of the Lord will, 
 not be polluted. 
 
EPISTLE 
 
 TO THE 
 
 QUARTERLY AND MONTHLY MEETINGS 
 OF FRIENDS. 
 
 Beloved Friends, 
 
 Feeling at this time a renewed concern, that the pure priii 
 ciple of light and life, and the righteous fruits thereof, ma 
 spread and prevail among mankind, there is an engagement o 
 my heart to labour with my brethren in religious professioi 
 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 wil 
 ness in the hearts of such as are not in profession with us. 
 
 And, dear friends, while we publicly own that the Hoi 
 Spirit is our leader, the profession is in itself weighty, and th 
 weightiness thereof increaseth in proportion as we are note 
 among the professors of truth ; and are active in deahng wit 
 such as walk disorderly. 
 
 Many under our profession, for want of due attention, an 
 a perfect resignation to this Divine Teacher, have in som 
 things manifested a deviation from the purity of our religiou 
 
297- 
 
 principles, and these deviations having crept in among 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 author- 
 ity- of. Christ who is the author of it ; and when 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 re- 
 main obstinate, it is sometimes necessary to proceed as far as 
 our Lord directed, " Let him. be unto thee as an heathen man, 
 and a publican." Matt, xviii. 17. Now when such are dis-, 
 owned, and they who act therein feel Christ made imto them 
 wisdom, and are preserved in his meek, restoring spirit, there 
 is no just cause of offence ministered to any ; but when those 
 who are active in dealing with" offenders, indulge themselves 
 in things which axe 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 judg- 
 ed." Now this forbidding alludes- to man's judgment, and 
 points out the necessity of our humbly attending to that sanc- 
 tifying power, under which the faithful experience the Lord to 
 be " a spirit of judgment ta them." Isaiah xxviii. 6.. And 
 
 n3 
 
298 
 
 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 tbatliv- 
 eth in me," right judgment is known. 
 
 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, 'chat we keep his 
 eommandmentsi" 1' John v. 3. 
 
 How weighty are those instructions of our Eedeemer, con- 
 cerning religious duties, in which 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 
 Pather 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 m doing the will- of God, on 
 earth as it is done in Heaven, and keeping the Holy Name sa- 
 cred. To take a holy profession upon us is awful, nor can wc 
 keep this Holy Name sacred, but by humbly abiding under 
 the cross of' Christ, The apostle made a heavy complaint 
 against some who profkned 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 gath- 
 ered into the state of true worshippers, and had fello\yship in 
 that which is pure ; and as one was inwardly moved to kneel' 
 down in their assemblies, and publicly call on the name of the- 
 Lord, those present, in the harmony of united exercise, 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 a union in prayer, and. 
 that prayer acceptable to the Father, is only in a mind truly 
 sanctified, in which the sacred name is kept holy, and the- 
 
299 
 
 heart resigned to do his will " on earth, as it is done in Heu 
 van." " If ye abide in me," saith Christ, " and my words 
 abide in you, ye shall ask what j'e 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 Spiiit doth- open and direct 
 our minds, and as we faithfully yield to its hifluences, our 
 prayers are in the will of our Heavenly Father, who fails not 
 to grant that which his own spirit, through his children, ask- 
 eth ; — thus preservation from sin is known, and the fruits of 
 righteousness are brought forth by such as inwardly unite in 
 prayer. 
 
 How weighty ai-e 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 !" 
 E. Barclay's Apology, p. 404. How necessary is it that we 
 who profess these principles, and are-outwardly active in sup. 
 porting them, should faithfully abide in Divine strength ; that 
 as He who hath called us is holy, so we may ba holy in all . 
 manner of conversation! 1 Pet. i. 15. 
 
 If one professing to be influenced by the spirit of Christ; 
 proposeth to unit;e in a labour to promote righteousness in the 
 earth, and in time past hath manifestly deviated from the path 
 of equity, to act consistently with this principle,, his first work 
 is to make restitution so far as he may be enabled ; for if he 
 attempts to contribute towards a work, intended to promote 
 righteousness, while it appears that he neglects, or refuses to 
 act righteously himself,, his. conduct has a tendency to en^ 
 tangle the minds of those who are weak in the faith, and to 
 draw a veil over the purity of righteousness, by carrying an 
 appearance, as if 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 exam- 
 ple ; the first step, in an orderly proceeding, is to cease from 
 those customs myself, and afterwards to labour, as I may be en- 
 abled, to promote the like disposition and conduct in others. 
 
 To be convinced of the pure principle of truth, and dili- 
 gently 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, 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 
 3ur teacher, may be a family united in that purity of worship, 
 ivhich comprehends a holy life, and ministers instruction 
 to others. 
 
 My mind is often drawn towards children in the truth, who 
 liaving a small share of the things of this life, and coming to 
 liave families, may be inwardly exercised before the Lord, to 
 support them in a way agreeable to the purity of truth, in 
 *hich they may feel his blessing upon them in their labours ; 
 ;he thoughts of such being entangled with customs contrary 
 ;o pure wisdom, conveyed to them through our hands, doth 
 jften very tenderly and movingly affect my heart ; and when I 
 ook towards and think on the succeeding generation, fervent 
 lesires 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 
 )ur age, we may be instrumental in removing stumbling- 
 )loeks o<it of the way of those who may succeed us. 
 
301 
 
 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. 27. And when any take the name 
 of Christ upon them, profess to be members of his church, 
 and led by his Holy Spirit, and yet manifestly deviate from 
 the purity of truth, they act against his gracious design in 
 giving himself for them, and minister cause for the contintt- 
 ance 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 bapti- 
 zed into his death. *A.nd as we humbly abide under his sanc- 
 tifying power, and are brought forth into newness of life, we 
 feel Christ to live in us, who being the same yesterday, to-day, 
 and for ever, 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 this world,, 
 with its wickedness and customs, and thereby rendered inca- 
 pable of being faithful examples to others, sorrow and heavi- 
 ness, under a sense of these things, are 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 rememberest that thy brother hath aught 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." 
 Matt. V. 23, 24. Now there is no true unity, but in that 
 wherein the Father and Sou are united ; nor can there be a 
 perfect reconciliation, but in ceasing from that which ministers 
 cause for the contlnu.ation of the afflictions of Christ j and if 
 
302 
 
 any, professing to bring their gift to the altar, remember the 
 customary contradiction which some of their fruits bear to 
 pure, spiritual worship, it appears necessary to lay to heart 
 this command, " leave thy gift before the altar.;" 
 
 Christ graciously calls his people brethren ; " whosoever 
 shall do the will of God, the same is my brother." Markiii. 
 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 Re- 
 deemer 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 ren- 
 dered acceptable, " leave," saith he, " *hy gift before the al- 
 tar, and go thy way, first 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 ihen come and 
 offer thy gift. 
 
 I feel while I am writing, a tenderness to those who, through 
 Divine favoui', 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 counsel of truth ; and I therefore 
 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, whose members, 
 ai'e 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 the groimd of th.e- 
 tcuth, 1 Tim. iiL 15- 
 
303 
 
 Thus, the church hath a name that is sacred, and the ne- 
 cessity of keeping this name holy, s^pears evident ; for when- 
 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 such as 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 profaning the Holy Name, and of going back towards 
 that wilderness of sufferings and persecution, out of which, 
 through the tender mercies of God, a church hath been gathered. 
 Chri&t liveth in sanctified vessels, Gal. ii. 20. and when his 
 Holy Name is profaned,, and the pure gospel light eclipsed, 
 through the unlaithfulness of miy 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, 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 are less waited for and 
 followed,, 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 con- 
 science is not allowed, many of whom being burdened in their- 
 minds with prevailing superstition joined with oppressions, 
 are often under sorrow - and when such have attended to that 
 pure 1-ight which hath in some degree opened their under- 
 standings, and, for their faithfulness thereto, have been brought 
 to examination aod 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. 
 
304 
 
 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 endured who have been faithful to the end ! 
 
 How many tender-spirited protestants have been senten- 
 ced 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 consciences of the parents, that, by dissenting from 
 thenn; they have hazarded their liberty, hves, 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 fe-ithfulness hath ministered encouragements to others, 
 and hath been a blessing to many who have succeeded them. 
 Thus, from age to age, the darkness being more and more re- 
 moved, through the tender mercies of God, a channel hath at 
 length been opened for the exercise of the pure gift of the 
 gospel ministry, without interruption from outward power, a 
 work 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 eaith has been open before me, 
 that liberty of conscience with which we are favoured, hath 
 not appeared as a light matter. A trust is committed to us, 
 a great and weighty trust, to which our diligent attention is 
 necessary. Whenever the active members of this visible gath- 
 ered 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 towards the wilderness ; one step towards 
 undoing what God, in infinite love, hath done through his 
 faithful servants, in a work of several ages, and is like laying 
 the foundation for future sufferings. 
 
305 
 
 I feel a living invitation in my mind to such as are active 
 in our religious society, that we may lay this matter to heart, 
 and consider that we stand in a state of outward liberty, under, 
 the- free exercise of our conscience towards God, obtained 
 through the great and manifold afflictions of those who lived 
 before us. Gratitude is due from us to our lieavenly 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 faith- 
 fulness of the martyrs, when the prospect of death by fire was 
 before them, and the patient constant sufferings of the upright- 
 hearted servants of God, in later 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 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, will 
 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 expresseth it, is "as 
 when a standard-bearer fainteth" : Isaiah, x. 18. and thus the 
 way opens to great and prevailing degeneracy, and to suffer- 
 ings, for such as through the power of Divine love, are 
 
30G 
 
 separated to the gospel of Christ, and cannot unite with any 
 thing in opposition to its purity. 
 
 The necessity of an inward stillness hath, under these 
 exercises, appeared clear to my mind. In true silence strength 
 is renewed, and the mind is weaned from all things, but as 
 they may be enjoyed in the Divine will ; and a lowliness in out- 
 ward living, opposite to worldly honour, becomes truly accept- 
 able to us. In the desire after outward gain, the mind is pre- 
 vented from a perfect attention to the voice of Christ ; yet being 
 weaned from all things, except as they may be enjoy^^n the 
 Divine will, the pure light shines into the soul. Where the fruits 
 of the spirit which is of this M'orld, 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 knowledge 
 of Christ in the fellowship of his sufferings ; and inward thank- 
 fulness is felt at times, that through Divine love, our own 
 wisdom is cast out, and that forward, active part in us is sub- 
 jected, which would rise and do something in the Church, 
 without the pure leadings of the Spirit of Christ. 
 
 While aught remains in us contrary to a perfect resigna- 
 tion of our wills, it is like a seal to a book, wherein is written 
 " that good and acceptable and perfect will of God " concern- 
 ing us. Rom. xii. 2. But wh^n 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 karn to abide 
 in the Divine will, and there feel, that we have no cause to pro- 
 mote except that alone in which the light of life directs us in 
 our proceedings ; and that the only 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 
 
307 
 
 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 cliurch, without the leading of the Holy 
 Spirit, is not only unprofitaible, but tends to increase dim- 
 ness ; and when way is not open 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, is of the greatest con- 
 sequence to be observed. Thus Eobert Barclay, in his trea- 
 tise on discipline, (see pages 65, 68, 84.) : "Th«.t the judg- 
 ment or conclusion of the church or congregation is no fur- 
 ther 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 light, and those to judgment which are wrought in the wis- 
 dom of this world ; and I have also seen, that in a mind tho- 
 roughly 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, are unprofitable. 
 
 When 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." Matt. 
 y. 14. Now, holding this profession hath appeared to me 
 weighty, even beyond what I can fully express, and is 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 feel at times, under Divine vi- 
 sitation, an inward inquiry after God ; and, when such in the 
 simplicity of their hearts, observe the lives of a people who 
 profess to walk by the leadings of his Spirit, of what great 
 
308 - 
 
 concernment is it that our lights shine clear, that nothing in 
 our conduct carry a contradiction to the truth as it is in Jesus, 
 or he a means of profaning his Holy Name, and be a stum- 
 bling-block in the way of those sincere inquirers. 
 
 When such seekers as are weary with empty forms, look to- 
 wards uniting with us as a society, and behold active members 
 among us depart, in their customary way of living, from that 
 purity of life which, under humbling exercises, hath been open- 
 ed 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 among mankind ! 
 
 In entering into that life which is hid with Christ in God, 
 we behold his peaceable government, where the whole family 
 being governed by the same spirit, and " doing to others as 
 we would they should do unto us," grow up as good fruit 
 from a good tree. The peace, quietness, and harmonious 
 walking in this government, is beheld with humble reverence 
 tt> 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. I have felt a labour of long continuance, that 
 we who profess this peaceable principle, may be faithful stan- 
 dard 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 wisdoili 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 unrighteous- 
 ness, so far as I know ? 
 
 The principle of peace, in which our trust is only in the 
 
009 
 
 Lord, and our minds are weaned from a dependance on the 
 strength of armies, appears to me very precious ; and I often 
 feel strong desires, that we who profess this principle, may so 
 walk as not to give just cause for any of our fellow-creatures 
 to he 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.'' Matt, xxiii. 9. When the wisdom from 
 above is faitlifuUy followed, and we are therein intrusted with 
 substance, it is a treasure committed to our care in the nature 
 of 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 is felt 
 in which is real safety. This is what I apprehend our blessed 
 Lord had in view, when he said, " Blessed are the meek, for 
 they shall inherit the earth." 
 
 Selfish worldly-minded men may hold lands in the selfish spi- 
 rit ; and depending on the strength of outward power, be per- 
 plexed with secret uneasiness, lest the injured should sometime 
 overpower them, and that measure should be 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 their Heavenly Father, free from all the 
 defilements and perplexities of unrighteousness. 
 
 When proceedings have been in that wisdom which is from 
 beneath, and inequitable gain hath been gathered by a man, 
 and left as a gift to his children, who, 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 ; it hath under 
 humbling exercise of mind, appeared to me, that the sins of 
 
810 
 
 \he fatliers are embraced by the children, and become their 
 &ins ; and thus, in the days of tribulation, the iniquities of the 
 fathers are visited upon these children, who take hold of the 
 imrighteousness of their fathers, and live in that spirit in which 
 those iniquities were committed. To this agreeth the prophecy 
 of Moses, concerning a rebellious peoples "They that are 
 left of you shall pine away in their iniquity in your enemies' 
 lands ; and also in the iniquities of their fathers shall they pine 
 away with them, " Lev. xxvi. 39. 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 blcod of Zacharias, which perished 
 between the altar and the temple." Luke xi, 50, 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 pre- 
 pared 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 our perfect resignation 
 to his Holy will. In this condition, all our wants and desires 
 are bounded by pure wisdom, and our minds are wholly 
 attentive to the counsel of Christ, inwardly communicated. 
 This appears to me a habitation of safety for the Lord's peo-' 
 pie, in times of outward commotion and trouble ; and desires! 
 from the fountain of pure love are -opened in me, to invite myj 
 brethren and fellow-creatures to feel far, and seek after that 
 which gathers the mind into it. ' 
 
 John Woolmajs 
 
 Mount Holly, New Jersey, 4th Montb, 1772, 
 
WORD OF REMEMBRANCE 
 
 AND 
 
 CAUTION TO THE RICH. 
 [First Printed in n9Z.'\ 
 
 SEC. I. 
 
 Wealth desired for its own sake, obstructs the increase 
 of virtue ; and large possessions in the hands of selfish 
 men, have a bad tendency ; for by their means too small a 
 number of people are employed in useful things ; and some 
 of them are necessitated to labour too hard, while others 
 would want business to earn their bread, were not employ- 
 ments invented which, having no real usefulness, serve only 
 to please the vain mind. 
 
 Rents on lands are often so high, that persons of but 
 small substance are straitened in taking farms ; and while ten- 
 ants are healthy and prosperous in business, they often find 
 occasion to labour harder than was intended by our gracious 
 Creator. Oxen and horses are often seen at work, when 
 
313 
 
 thi'ougli heat and too much labour, their eyes and the moti' 
 of their bodies, manifest that they are oppressed. Their lo 
 in waggons are frequently so heavy, that when weary m 
 haling them far, their drivers find occasion in going up hills', 
 through mire to get then%forward by whipping. Many pi 
 psople are so thronged in their business, that it is difBcult 
 them to provide shelter for their cattle against the stori 
 These things are common when in health ; but through sii 
 ness and inability to labour, through loss of cattle, and n: 
 carriage in business, many are so straitened, that much 
 their increase goes to pay rent, and they have not wherew 
 to buy what they require. 
 
 Hence one poor woman, in providing for her family, a 
 attending the sick, does as much business as would for f 
 time, be suitable employment for two or three ; and honi 
 persons are often straitened to give their children suitable leai 
 ing. The money which the wealthy receive from the po( 
 who do more than a proper share of business in raising it, 
 frequently paid to other poor people, for doing business whi 
 is foreign to the true use of things. Men who have lar 
 estates, and live in the spirit of charity ; who carefullj' inspe 
 the circumstances of those who occupy their estates ; and i 
 gardless of the customs of the times, regulate their deman 
 agreeably to universal love, being righteous on principi 
 do good to the poor without placing it to an act of bouni 
 Their example in avoiding superfluities, tends to excite moder 
 tion in others ; their uprightness in not exacting what the la^ 
 and customs would support them in, tends to open the chanr 
 to moderate labour in useful affairs, and to discourage tho 
 branches of business which have not their foundation 
 true wisdom. 
 
 To be busied in that which is but vanitj^ and serves on 
 to please the insatiable mind, tends to an alliance with tho 
 
313 
 
 who promote that vanity, and is a snare in which many poor 
 tradesmen are entangled. To be employed in things connect- 
 ed with virtue, is most agreeable with the character and incli- 
 nations of an honest man. While industrious frugal people 
 are borne down with poverty, and oppressed with too much 
 labour in useful things, the way to apply money without pro- 
 moting pride and vanity, remains open to such as truly sym- 
 pathize with them, in their various difficulties. 
 
 SEC. II. 
 
 The Creator of the earth is the owner of it : He gave us 
 being thereon, and our nature requires nourishment, from the 
 produce of it. He is kind and merciful to his creatures ; and 
 while they live angwerably to the design of their creation, 
 they are so far entitled to convenient subsistence, that we may 
 not justly deprive them of it. By the agreements and con- 
 tracts of our predecessors, and by our own doings, some enjoy 
 a much greater share of this world than others ; and while 
 those possessions are faithfully improved for the good of the 
 whole, it agrees with equity : But he who, with a view to self- 
 exaltation, causeth some to labour immoderately, and with 
 the profits arising therefrom employs others in the luxuries of 
 life, acts contrary to the gracious designs of Him who is the 
 owner of the earth ; nor can any possessions, either acquired 
 or derived from ancestors, justify such conduct. Goodness 
 remains to be goodness, and the direction of pure wisdom is 
 obligatory on all reasonable creatures. 
 
 Though the poor occupy our estates by a bargain, to 
 which they in their poor circumstances, agree; and we may 
 ask even less than a punctual fulfilling of their agreement ; yet 
 
314 
 
 if our views are to lay np riches, or to live in conformity to cus 
 toms which have not their foundation in the truth, and ou 
 demands are such as require from them greater toil or applica 
 tion to business than is consistent with pure love, we invadi 
 their rights as inhabitants of a world, of which a good ani 
 gracious God is the proprietor, and under whom we are tenants 
 Were all superfluities, and the desire of outward greatnes 
 laid aside, and the right use of things imiversally attended to 
 such a number of people might be employed in things useful 
 as that moderate labour with the blessing of Heaven, woul( 
 answer all good purposes, and a sufficient number would hav 
 time to attend to the proper affairs of civU society. 
 
 SEC. HI. 
 
 While our spirits are lively, we go cheerfully through 
 business ; either too much or too little action is tiresome ; bu 
 a right portion is healthful to the body, and agreeable to ai 
 honest mind. 
 
 Men who have great estates stand in a place of trust : an( 
 to have it in their power to live without difficulty in that man 
 ner which occasions much labour, and at the same time t( 
 confine themselves to that use of things prescribed by ou 
 Redeemer, and confirmed by his example, and the examples o 
 many who lived in the early age of the Christian church, tha 
 they may more extensively relieve objects of charity, require 
 close attention to Divine love. 
 
 Our gracious Creator cares and provides for all his crea 
 tures : his tender mercies are over all his works, and so fa 
 as true love influences our minds, so far we become interested 
 in his workmanship ; and feel a desire to make use of ever 
 
31S 
 
 opportunity to lessen the distresses of the. afflicted, and to 
 increase the happiness of the creation. Here we have a 
 prospect of one common interest from which our own is 
 inseparable, so that to turn all we possess into the channel of 
 universal love, becomes the business of our lives. 
 
 Men of large estates whose hearts are thus enlarged, are 
 like fathers to the poor; and in looking over their brethi-en 
 in distressed circumstances, and considering their own more 
 easy condition, they find a field for humble meditation, and 
 feel the strength of the obligations they are tmder, to be kind 
 and tender-hearted towards them. Poor men eased of their 
 burdens, and released from too close an application to busi- 
 ness, are enabled to hire assistance, to provide well for their 
 cattle, and to find time to perform those duties among their 
 neighbours, which belong to a well-guided social life. When 
 the latter reflect on the opportunity such had to oppress 
 them, and consider the goodness of their conduct, they behold 
 it lovely and consistent with brotherhood; and as the man 
 whose mind is conformed to universal love, hath his trust 
 settled in God, and finds a firm foundation in any changes or 
 revolutions that happen among men, so also the goodness of 
 his conduct tends to spread a kind benevolent disposition in 
 the world. 
 
 SEC. IV. 
 
 Our blessed Redeemer, in directing us how to conduct' 
 ourselves one towards another, appeals to our own feelings : 
 " Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even 
 so to them." Now when some who have never experienced 
 hard labour themselves, live in fulness on the labour of others, 
 
 o2 
 
316 
 
 there is often a danger of their not having a right feeling of 
 the labourers' condition, and of being thereby disqualified to 
 judge candidly in their case ; not knowing what they, them- 
 selves would desire, were they to labour hard from one year to 
 another, to raise the necessaries of life, and pay high rent be- 
 sides. It is good for those who live in fulness, to cultivate ten- 
 derness of 'heart, and to improve every opportunity of being 
 acquainted with the hardships and fatigues of those who labour 
 for their living ; and thus to think seriously with themselves ; 
 Am I influenced by true charity in fixing all my demands ? 
 Have I no desire to support myself in expensive customs, be- 
 cause my acquaintances live in such customs ? 
 
 If a wealthy man on serious reflection, finds a witness in 
 his own conscience, that he indulges himself in some expen- 
 sive customs, which might be omitted, consistently with the 
 true design of living, and which, were he to change places with 
 those who occupy his estate, he would desire to be discontinued 
 by them ; whoever is thus awakened will necessarily find the 
 injunction binding, " Do ye even so to them." Divine Love 
 imposeth no rigorous or unreasonable commands ; but gra- 
 ciously points out the spirit of brotherhood, and the way to 
 happiness ; in attaining which, it is necessary that we relin- 
 quish all that is selfish. 
 
 SEC. V. 
 
 To enforce the duty of tenderness to the poor, the inspired 
 law-giver referred the children of Israel to their own experi- 
 ence ; " Ye know the heart of a stranger, seeing ye were 
 strangers in the land of Egypt." He who hath been a stran- 
 ger among unkind people, or under the government of those 
 
317 
 
 who were hard-hearted, has experienced this feeling ; but a per- 
 son who hath never felt the weight of misapplied power, comes 
 not to this knowledge but by an inward tenderness, in which 
 the heart is prepared to sympathize with others. 
 
 Let us reflect on the condition of a poor innocent man, on 
 whom the rich man, from a desire after wealth and luxuries, 
 lays heavy burdens : when this labourer looks over the cause 
 of his heavy toil, and considers that it is laid on him to sup- 
 port that which hath no foundation in pure wisdom, we 
 may well suppose that an uneasiness ariseth in his mind 
 towards one who might, Vvithout any inconvenience, deal more 
 favourably with him. When he considers that by his industry 
 his fellow-creature is benefited, and sees that this wealthy man 
 is not satisfied with being supported in a plain way, but to 
 gratify a desire of conforming to wrong customs, increaseth to 
 an extreme the labours ofthose who occupy his estate ; we 
 may reasonably judge that he will think himself unkindly 
 used. When he considers that the proceedings of the wealthy 
 are agreeable to the customs of the times, and sees no means of 
 redress in this world ; how will the sighings of this innocent per- 
 son ascend to the throne of that great and good Being who cre- 
 ated all, and who hath a constant care over his creatures ! He 
 who toils year after j'ear to furnish others with wealth and su- 
 perfluities, until by overmuch labour he is wearied and oppress- 
 ed, understands the meaning of that language ; " Ye know the 
 heart of a stranger, seeing ye were strangers in the land of Egypt." 
 
 Many at this day, who know not the heart of a stranger, 
 indulge themselves in ways of life, which occasion more 
 labour than Infinite goodness intends for man, and yet com- 
 passionate the distresses of such as come directly under their 
 observation ; were these to change circumstances awhile 
 with their labourers, were they to pass regularly through the 
 means of knowing the heart of a stranger, and come to a feel- 
 
318 
 
 ing knowledge of the straits and hardships which many po 
 innocent people pass through, in obscure life; were these wl 
 now fare sumptuously every day, to act the other part of tl 
 scene, until seven times had passed over them, and retu: 
 again to their former states ; I believe many of them wou 
 embrace a less expensive life ; and would lighten the heai 
 burdens of some who now labour out of their sight, and wl 
 pass through straits with which they are but Httle acquain 
 ed. To see their fellow-creatures under difficulties, to whk 
 they are in no degree accessary, tends to awaken tenderne 
 in the minds of all reasonable people ; but if we consider tl 
 condition of those who are depressed in answering our d 
 mands, who labour for us out of our sight, while we pass oi 
 time in fulness ; and consider also, that much less than v 
 demand would supply us with things really useful; whi 
 heart will not relent, or what reasonable man can refra: 
 from mitigating that grief, of which he himself is the cans 
 when he may do so without inconvenience ? 
 
 SEC. VI. 
 
 If more men were usefully employed, and fewer ate brei 
 as a reward for doing that which is not useful, food and ra 
 ment would, on a reasonable estimate, be more in proportic 
 to labour, than it is at present ; for if four men working eigl 
 hours per day, can do a portion of labour in a certain nun 
 ber of days ; then five men equally capable, may do the san 
 business in the same time, by working only six hours ar 
 twenty-four minutes per day. In proceeding agreeably 
 sound wisdom, a small portion of daily labour might suffic 
 to keep a proper stream gently circulating through all th 
 
319 
 
 channels of society ; and this portion of labour might be so 
 divided, and taken in the most advantageous parts of the day, 
 that people would not have that plea for the use of strong 
 liquors, which they have at present. The quantity of spiritu- 
 ous liquors imported and made in our country is great ; nor 
 can so many thousand hogsheads of it be drunk every year, 
 without having a powerful effect on our manners. 
 
 People spent with much labour, often take strong liquor 
 to revive them. The portion of the necessaries of life is such, 
 that those who support their families by day labour, find oc- 
 casion to labour hard, and many of them think strong drink a 
 necessary part of their entertainment. 
 
 When people are spent with action, and take these liquors 
 not only as a refreshment from past labours, but also to enable 
 them to go on, without giving sufficient time to recruit by 
 resting ; it gradually turns them from that calmness of thought, 
 which attends those who apply their hearts to true wisdom. 
 That the spirits being scattered by too much bodily motion, 
 and again revived by strong drink, makes a person unfit for 
 Divine meditation, I suppose will not be denied ; and as mul- 
 titudes of people are in this practice, who do not take so much 
 as to hinder them from managing their affairs, this custom is 
 strongly supported ; but as, through Divine goodness, I have 
 found that there is a more quiet, calm, and happy way intended 
 for us to walk in, I am engaged to express what I feel in my 
 heart concerning it. As cherishing the spirit of love and 
 meekness belongs to the family of Jesus Christ ; so to avoid 
 those things which are known to work against it is an indis- 
 pensable duty. Every degree of luxury, of what kind soever, 
 and every demand for money inconsistent with Divine order, 
 hath some connexion with unnecessary labour. By too much 
 labour the spirits are exhausted, and nature craves help from 
 strong drink ; and the frequent use of strong drink works in 
 
320 
 
 opposition to the celestial influence on the mind. There is ii 
 the nature of people, somejlegree of likeness with that fooc 
 and air, to which they have been accustomed from theii 
 youth ; this frequently appears in those who, by a separatioi 
 from their native air and usual diet, grow weak and unhealth} 
 for want of them ; nor is it reasonable to suppose, that sc 
 many thousand hogsheads of fiery liquor can be drunk everj 
 year, and the practice continued from age to age, without alter- 
 ing in some degree the natures of men, and rendering thei] 
 minds less apt to receive the pure truth in the love of it. 
 
 As many who manifest some regard to piety, in degree con. 
 form to those ways of living, and of collecting wealth whiet 
 increase labour beyond the bounds fixed by Divine wisdom 
 my desire is that they may so consider the connexion of things 
 as to take heed, lest, by exacting of poor men more than is 
 consistent with universal righteousness, they promote that bj 
 their conduct which in word they speak against. To treasuri 
 up wealth for another generation, by means of the immoderat( 
 labour. of ithose, who in some measure depend upon us, is do 
 ing evil at present, without knowing that wealth, thus gathered 
 may not be applied to evil purposes when we are gone. Tc 
 labour hard, or cause others to do so, that we may live con 
 formably to customs which Christ our Redeemer discounten 
 anced by his example, in the days of his flesh, and which ar( 
 contrary to Divine order, is to manure a soil for propagating 
 an evil seed in the earth. They who enter deeply into thes( 
 considerations, and live imder the weight of them, will fee 
 these things so heavy, and their ill effects so extensive, tha 
 the necessity of attending singly to Divine wisdom will bi 
 evident ; and will thereby be directed in the right use o 
 things, in opposition to the customs of the times ; and will b 
 supported to bear patiently the reproaches attending singularity 
 To conform a little, strengthens the hands of those who carr 
 
321 
 
 wrong customs to their utmost extent ; and the more a person 
 appears to be virtuous, and heavenly minded, the more power- 
 fully does his conformity operate in favourof evil doers. Lay 
 aside the profession of a pious life, and people expect little or 
 no instruction from the example ; but while we profess, in all 
 cases, to live in constant opposition to that which is contrary 
 to universal righteousness ; — what expressions are equal to the 
 subject, or what language is sufficient to set forth the strength 
 of the obligations we are under, to beware lest by our exam- 
 ple we 'lead others astray ! 
 
 SEC. VII. 
 
 If by our wealth we make our children great, without a 
 full persuasion that we could not bestow it better, and thus 
 give them power to deal hardly with others more virtuous 
 than they, it can after death give us no more satisfaction, than 
 if by this treasure we had raised others above our own, and 
 had given them power to oppress them. 
 
 Did a man possess as much land, as would suffice for twen- 
 ty industrious frugal people, and supposing that, being the 
 lawful heir to it, he intended to give this great estate to his 
 children; yet if he found on research into the title, that one 
 half of this estate was the undoubted right of a number of 
 poor orphans, who as to virtue and understanding, appeared 
 to him as hopeful as his own children ; the discovery would 
 give him an opportunity to consider, whether he was, attach- 
 ed to any interest distinct from the interest of- those orphans. 
 
 Some of us have estates sufficient for our children, and as 
 many more to live upon, if they all employed their time in 
 useful business, and lived in that plainness which becomes the 
 
 o3 
 
322 
 
 true disciples of Christ ; and we have no reason to believe 
 that our children will be more likely to apply them to benevo- 
 lent purposes, than would some poor children with whom we 
 are acquainted ; and yet, did we believe that after our decease 
 these estates would go equally among our children, and the 
 children of the poor, it would be likely to give us uneasiness. 
 This may shew to a thoughtful person, that to be redeemed 
 from all the remains of selfishness, to have an universal regard 
 to our fellow-creatures, and to love them as our Heavenly 
 Father loves them, we must constantly attend to the influence 
 of his spirit. 
 
 When our hearts are enlarged to contemplate the nature of 
 tnis Divine love, we behold it harmonious ; but if we atten- 
 tively consider that moving of selfishness, which makes us 
 uneasy at the apprehension of that which is in itself reasonable, 
 and which, when separated from all previous, conceptions and 
 expectations, appears so, we see an inconsistency in it ; for 
 the subject of such uneasiness is future, and will not affect 
 our children, imtil we are removed iiito that state of being, 
 in which there is no possibility of our taking delight in any 
 thing contrary to the pure principle of universal love. 
 
 As that natural desire of superiority in us, when given 
 way to, extends to such of our favourites, as we expect will 
 succeed us ; and as the grasping after wealth and power 
 for them, adds greatly to the burdens of the poor, and increas- 
 eth the evil of covetousness in this age ; I haijjf often desired 
 that, in looking towards posterity, we may remember the 
 purity of that rest, which is prepared for the Lord's people ; 
 the impossibility of our taking pleasure ia any thing distin- 
 guishable from universal righteousness ; and how vain and 
 weak it is, to give wealth and power to those, who appear un- 
 likely to apply it to the general good when we are gone. 
 
 As christians, all we possess is the gift of God ; and in the 
 
323 
 
 distribution of it we act as liis stewards; it becomes us there- 
 fore to act agreeably to that Divine wisdom, which He graci- 
 ously gives to his servants. If the steward of a great family, 
 takes that with which he is intrusted, and bestows it lavishly 
 on some, to the injury of others, and to the damage of his 
 employer, he degrades himself, and becomes unworthy of that 
 office. 
 
 The true felicity of man in this life, and in that which is to 
 come, is in being inwardly united to the fountain of universal 
 love and bliss. When we provide for posterity, and make 
 settlements which will not take effect, until after we are cen- 
 tred in another state of being ; if we therein knowingly act 
 contrary to universal love and righteousness, such conduct 
 must arise from a false, selfish pleasure; and if, after such 
 settlements, our wills continue to stand in opposition to the 
 fountain of universal light and love; will there not be an im- 
 passable gulph between the soul and true felicity ? But if after 
 such settlement, and when too late for an alteration, we attain 
 to that purified state which our Eedeemer prayed his Father 
 that his people might attain to, of being united to the Father, 
 and to the Son ; must not a sincere repentance, for all things 
 done in a wUl separate from universal love, precede this in- 
 ward sanctification ? And though in such depth of repentance 
 and reconciliation, all sins may be forgiven, can we reasonably 
 suppose, that our partial determinations in favour of those 
 whom we selfishly loved, will then afford us pleasure ? 
 
 SEC. VIII. 
 
 To labour for an establishment in Divine love, in which 
 the mind is disentangled from the power of darkness, is the 
 great business of man's life; the collecting of riches, covering 
 
324 
 
 the body with fine wrought, costly apparel, and having mag- 
 nificent furniture, operate against universal love, and tend to 
 feed self; so that it belongs not to the children of the light to 
 desire these things. He who sent ravens to feed Elijah in the 
 wilderness, and increased the poor woman's small remains of 
 meal and oil, is now as attentive as ever to the necessities of 
 his people. When He saith unto his people, "Ye are my sons 
 and daughters," no greater happiness can be desired by them, 
 who know how gracious a Father He is. 
 
 The greater part of the necessaries of life, are so far perish- 
 able, that each generation hath occasion to labour for them ; 
 and when we look towards a succeeding age, with a mind 
 influenced by universal love, instead of endeavouring to ex- 
 empt some from those cares, which necessarily relate to this 
 life, and to give them power to oppress others ; we desire 
 that they may all be the Lord's children, and live in that 
 humility and order becoming His family. Our hearts being 
 thus opened and enlarged, will feel content with a state of 
 things, as foreign to luxury and grandeur, as that which our 
 Redeemer laid down as a pattern. 
 
 By desiring wealth for the power and distinction it gives, 
 and gathering it on this motive, a person may become rich ; 
 but his mind being moved by a draught distinguishable from 
 the drawings of the Father, he cannot be united to the heaven- 
 ly society, where God is the strength of their life. " It is 
 easier," saith our Saviour, " for a camel to go through the 
 eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of 
 God." Plere, our Lord uses an instructive similitude, for as 
 a camel, while in that form, cannot pass through the eye of a 
 needle, so a man who trusteth in riches, and holds them for 
 the sake of the power and distinction attending them, cannot 
 in that spirit enter into the kingdom. Now every part of a 
 camel may be so reduced, as to pass through a hole, as small 
 
32S 
 
 as the eye of a needle ; yet such is the bulk of the creature, 
 and the hardness of its bones and teeth, that it could not be so 
 reduced without much labour ; so must man cease from that 
 spirit which craves riches, and be brought into another dispo- 
 sition, before he inherits the kingdom, as effectually as a camel 
 must be changed from the form of a camel, in passing through 
 the eye of a needle. 
 
 When our Saviour said to the rich youth, " Go sell what 
 thou hast and give to the poor;" though undoubtedly it was 
 his duty to have done so ; yet to enjoin the selling of all, as a 
 duty on every true Christian, would be to limit the Holy One. 
 Obedient children, who are intrusted with much outward sub- 
 stance, wait for wisdom to dispose of it agreeably to His will, 
 " in whom the fatherless find mercy." It may not be the du- 
 ty of every one to commit at once their substance to other 
 hands ; but rather from time to time to look round among 
 the numerous branches of the great family, as the stewards of 
 him who provides for the widows and fatherless ; and as dis- 
 ciples of Christ, however intrusted with much goods, they may 
 not conform to sumptuous or luxurious living ; for as He 
 lived in perfect plainness and simplicity, the greatest in hi& 
 family, cannot by virtue of his station, claim a right to live in 
 worldly grandeur, without contradicting His doctrine who said,. 
 " It is enough for the disciple to be as his master." 
 
 When our eyes are so single as to discern the selfish spirit 
 clearly, we behold it the greatest of all tyrants. Many thousand 
 innocent people, under some of the Eoman emperors, being 
 confirmed in the truth of Christ's religion, by the powerful 
 efiects of his Holy Spirit upon them, and scrupling to conform 
 to heathaiish rites, were put to death by various kinds of cruel 
 and lingering torments ; as is largely set forth by Eusebius. 
 
 Now if we single outDomitian, Nero, or any other of the 
 persecuting emperors, the man, though terrible in his time, 
 
326 
 
 will appear as a tyrant of small consequence, compared with 
 this selfish spirit ; for though his bounds were large, yet a 
 great part of the world was out of his reach ; and though he 
 grievously afflicted the bodies of those innocent people, yet 
 the minds of many were divinely supported in their greatest 
 agonies ; and being faithful unto death, they were delivered 
 from his tyranny. His reign, though cruel for a time, was 
 soon over ; and he, in his greatest pomp, appears to have 
 been a slave to a selfish spirit. 
 
 Thus tyranny as applied to a man, riseth up, and soon has 
 an end; but if we consider the numerous oppressions in 
 many states, and the calamities occasioned by contending 
 nations in various countiries and ages of the world, and re- 
 member that selfishness hath been the original cause of them 
 all ; if we consider that those who are unredeemed from this 
 selfish spirit, not only afflict others, but are afflicted them- 
 selves, and have no real quietness in this life, nor in futurity ;r 
 but according to the sayings of Christ, have their portion, 
 " Where the worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched ;'' 
 If we consider the havoc that is made in this age, and how 
 numbers of people are hurried on, striving to collect treasure 
 to please that mind which wanders from perfect resignedness ; 
 and in that wisdom which is foolishness with God, are per- 
 verting the true use of things, labouring as in the fire, con- 
 tending with one another, even unto blood, and exerting their 
 power to support ways of living, foreign to the life of on^ 
 wholly crucified to the world : — If we consider what great 
 numbers of people are employed in preparing the articles of 
 war, and the labour and toil of armies, set apart for protecting 
 their respective territories from invasion ; and the extensive 
 miseries which attend their engagements ; while they who till 
 the land, and are employed in other useful things in support- 
 ing themselves, and those employed in military affairs, and also 
 
327 
 
 those who own the soil, have great hardships to encounter, 
 through too much labour; while others, in several kingdoms, 
 are busied in fetching men to help to labour, from distant 
 parts of the world, to spend the remainder of their lives in the 
 uncomfortable condition of slaves ; and that self is the bottom 
 of these proceedings : amidst all this confusion, and these 
 scenes of sorrow and distress, can we remember that we are the 
 disciples of the Prince of peace, and the example of humility 
 and plainness which he set for us, without feeling an earnest 
 desire to be disentangled from every thing connected with sel- 
 fish customs in food, in raiment, in houses, and all things else ? 
 That being of Christ's family, and walking as He walked, we 
 may stand in that uprightness wherein man was first made, 
 and have no fellowship with those inventions, which men 
 in their fallen wisdom have sought out. 
 
 SEC. IX. 
 
 The way of carrying on wars, common in the world is so 
 far distinguishable from the purity of Christ's religion, that 
 many scruple to join in them. Those who are so redeemed 
 from the love of the world, as to possess nothing in a selfish 
 spirit, have their " life hid with Christ in God," and He pre- 
 serves them in resignedness, even in times of commotion. 
 
 As they possess nothing but what pertains to his family, 
 anxious thoughts about wealth or dominion have little or 
 nothing in them on which to work ; and they learn contentment 
 in being disposed of according to his will, who being omnipo- 
 tent, and always mindful of his children, causeth all things to 
 work for their good : but when that spirit works which loves 
 riches, and in its working gathers wealth, and cleaves to customs 
 
828 
 
 wtich have their root in self-pleasing : whatever name it hath 
 it still desires to defend the treasures thus gotten : This is like 
 a chain in which the end of one link incloseth the end of 
 another; the rising up of a desire to obtain wealth is the begin- 
 ning ; this desire being cherished, moves to action ; and riches 
 thus gotten, please self; and while self has a life inihem, it de- 
 sires to have them defended. Wealth is attended with power, by 
 which bargains and proceedings contrary to universal right- 
 eousness are supported ; and hence oppression, carried on with 
 worldly policy and order, clothes itself with the name of jus- 
 tice, and becomes like a seed of discord in the soul : and as a 
 spirit which WEinders from the pure habitation prevails, so the 
 seeds of war swell, and sprout, and grow, and become strong 
 until much fruit is ripened. Then cometh the harvest spoken 
 of by the prophet, which " is a heap, in the day of grief and 
 desperate sorrows." Oh! that we who declare against wars, 
 and acknowledge our trust to be in God only, may walk in 
 the light, and therein examine our foundation and motives in 
 holding great estates ! May we look upon our treasures, the 
 furniture of our houses, and our garments, and try whether 
 the seeds of war have nourishment in these our possessions. 
 Holding treasures in the self-pleasing spirit is a strong plant, 
 the fruit whereof ripens fast. A day of outward distress is 
 coming, and Divine love calls to prepare against it. 
 
 SEC. X. 
 
 " The heaven, even the heavens are the Lord's; but the 
 earth hath he given to the children of men." As servants of 
 God, our land or estates we hold under Him as his gifts ; and 
 in applying the profits, it is our duty to act consistently with 
 
329 
 
 the designs of our Benefactor. Imperfect men may give from 
 motives of misguided affection, but perfect wisdom and good- 
 ness gives agreeably to his own nature ; nor is this gift abso- 
 lute, but conditional, for us to occupy as dutiful children, and 
 not otherwise ;. for He alone is the true proprietor. "The 
 world" saith He, "is mine, and the fulness thereof." The 
 inspired lawgivjer directed, that such of the Israelites as sold 
 their inheritance, should sell it for a term only ; and. that they 
 or their children should again enjoy it in the year of jubilee, 
 settled on every fiftieth year. . " The land shall not be sold 
 for ever, for the land is mine saith the Lord, for ye are stran- 
 gers and sojourners with me.'' This was designed to pre- 
 vent the rich from oppressing the poor by too much engrossing 
 the land; and our blessed Eedeemer said, "Till heaven and 
 earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the 
 law, till all be fulfilled." 
 
 When Divine love takes place in the hearts of any people, 
 and they steadily act in a principle of universal righteousness, 
 then the true intent of the law is fulfilled, though their out- 
 ward modes of proceeding may be various ; but when men are 
 .possessed by that spirit, hinted at by the prophet, and looking 
 over their wealth, say in their hearts, " Have we not taken to 
 us horns by our own strength ?" they deviate from the Di- 
 vine law, and do not count their possessions so strictly God's, 
 nor the weak and poor entitled to so much of the increase 
 thereof, but that they may indulge their desires, in conforming 
 to worldly pomp. Thus when house is joined to house, and 
 field laid to field, until there is no place, and the poor are 
 thereby straitened, though this is done by bargain and pur- 
 chase, yet so far as it stands distinguished from universal love, 
 so far that woe predicted by the prophet will accompany 
 their proceedings. As he who first founded the earth was 
 then the true proprietor of it, so he still remains, and 
 
330 
 
 though He hath given it to the children of men, so that multi- 
 tudes of people have had their sustenance from it, while thej 
 continued here ; yet He hath never alienated it, but his righi 
 is as good as at first ; nor can any apply the increase of theii 
 possessions contrary to universal love, nor dispose of lands ii 
 a way, which they know tends to exalt some, by oppressing 
 others, without being justly chargeable with usurpation. 
 
 SEC XL 
 
 If we count back one hundred and fifty years, and compan 
 the inhabitants of Great Britain, with the nations of North 
 America, on the like compass of ground, the latter I suppose 
 would bear a small proportion to the former. On the disco- 
 very of this fertile continent, many of those thickly settled in- 
 habitants coming over, the natives at first generally treated then 
 with kindness ; and as they brought iron tools, and a variety 
 of things for man's use, they gladly embraced the opportuniti 
 of traffic, and encouraged these foreigners to settle : I speal 
 only of improvements made peaceably. 
 
 Thus our Gracious Father, who beholds the situation o 
 all his creatures, hath opened a way for a thickly settled land 
 now if we consider the turning of God's hand, in thus fa 
 giving us some room in this continent, and that the offsprins 
 of those ancient possessors of the country, in whose eyes Wi 
 appear as new-comers, are yet owners and inhabitants of th 
 land adjoining us, and that their way of life, requiring mucl 
 room, hath been transmitted to them from their predecessors 
 and probably settled by the custom of a great many ages: wi 
 may see the necessity of cultivating the lands already obtaine( 
 of them, and applying the increase consistently with true wis 
 
331 
 
 dom, so as to accomodate the greatest number of people, 
 before we have any right to plead, as members of the one 
 great family, the equity of their assigning to us more of their 
 possessions, and living in a way requiring less room. 
 
 Did we all walk as became the followers of our blessed 
 Saviour; were all the fruits of the country retained in it, 
 which are sent abroad in return for strong drink, costly array, 
 and other luxuries ; and the labour and expence of importing 
 and exporting applied to husbandry, and useful trades ; a much 
 greater number of people than now reside here, might, with 
 the Divine blessing, live comfortably on the lands already 
 granted us, by those ancient possessors of the country. If we 
 faithfully serve God, who has given us some room in this land, 
 I believe He will make some of us useful among them, both in 
 publishing the doctrines of His Son, our Saviour, and in point- 
 ing out to them the advantages of cultivating the earth ; 
 while people are so much more thickly settled in some parts 
 than others, a trade in some serviceable articles, may be to 
 mutual advantage, and may be carried on with much more 
 regularity and satisfaction to a sincere christian, than trade 
 now generally is. 
 
 One person continuing to live contrary to true wisdom, 
 commonly draws others into connexion with him, and when 
 these embrace the way the first hath chosen, their proceedings 
 are like a wild vine, which springing from a single seed, and 
 growing strong, its branches extend, and their little tendrils 
 . twist round all herbs and boughs of trees within their reach ; 
 and are so braced and locked in, that without much labour 
 and great strength, they are not disentangled. Thus these 
 customs, small in their beginning, as they increase promote 
 business and traffic, and many depend on them for a living ; 
 but it is evident that all business, which hath not its founda- 
 tion in true wisdom, is not becoming a faithful follower of 
 
333 
 
 Christ, who loves God, not only with all his heart, but wi 
 all his strength and abOity. And as the Lord is able, and w 
 support those whose hearts are perfect towards him, in a wi 
 agreeably to his unerring wisdom, it becomes us to medita 
 on the privileges of his children, to remember that " whe 
 the spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty," and that in joining 
 customs which we know are wrong, there is a departing fro 
 His government, and a certain degree of alienation from Hir 
 Some well inclined people are entangled in such business, ar 
 at times may have a desire of being freed from it ; our ceasir 
 from these things may therefore be made helpful to them ; ar 
 though for a time their business may fail ; yet if they humbi 
 ask wisdom of God, and are truly resigned to Him, he will m 
 fail them, nor forsake them. He who created the earth, ai] 
 hath provided sustenance for millions of people in past age 
 is as attentive to the necessities of His children as ever. 1 
 press forward to perfection is our duty ; and if herein we lesse 
 some business, by which some poor people earn their brea( 
 the Lord who calls to cease from those things, will take ca: 
 of those whose business fails by it, if they sincerely seek ( 
 Him. If the connexion we have with the inhabitants of thei 
 provinces, and our interest considered as distinct from other 
 engage us to promote plain living, in order to enrich oi 
 country ; though a plain life is in itself best, yet by livii 
 plain in a selfish spirit, we advance not in true religion. 
 
 Divine love, which enlarges the heart towards mankin 
 universally, is that alone which stops every corrupt strean 
 and opens those channels of business and commerce, in whic 
 nothing runs that is not pure ; and so establishes our going 
 that when in our laboTirs we meditate on the universal love ( 
 God, and the harmony of Holy Angels, the serenity of oi: 
 minds may never be clouded, by remembering that some pa: 
 of our employments tends to support customs, which ha\ 
 
 fVn^ir fminrlnfinn in irhe^ Qplf_ooaTriTirr enii-if '• 
 
333 
 
 SEC. XII. 
 
 While our minds are prepossessed in favour of customs, 
 distinguishable from perfect purity, we are in danger of not 
 attending with singleness to that light, which opens to our 
 view the naturej^universal righteousness. 
 
 In the affairs of a thickly settled country, are variety of use- 
 ful employments, besides tilling the earth ; so that, for some 
 men to have more land than is necessary to build upon, and to 
 answer the occasions of their families, may consist with 
 brotherhood ; and from the various gifts which God hath be- 
 stowed on those employed in husbandry, for some to possess 
 and occupy much more than others, may likewise so consist ; 
 but when any, on the strength of their possessions, demand 
 such rent or interest, as necessitates their tenants to a closer 
 application to business than our merciful Father designed for 
 us, it puts the wheels of perfect brotherhood out of order, and 
 leads to employments, the promoting of which belongs not to- 
 the family of Christ, whose example in all points being a pat- 
 tern of wisdom, the plainness and simplicity of his outward ap- 
 pearance may well make us ashamed to adorn our bodies with 
 costly array, or treasure up wealth by the least oppression. 
 
 Though by claims grounded on prior possession, great in- 
 equahty appears among men ; yet the instructions of the 
 Great Proprietor of the earth, are necessary to be attended to 
 in all our proceedings, as possessors or claimers of the soil. 
 " The steps of a good man are ordered of the Lord," and those 
 who are thus guided, and whose hearts are enlarged in His love, 
 give directions concerning their possessions agreeably thereto; 
 and that claim which stands on universal righteousness, is a 
 good right ; but the continuance of that right depends on pro- 
 
834 
 
 perly applying the profits thereof. The word right, commonly 
 relates to our possessions : We say, a right of propriety to 
 such a division of a province, or a clear indisputable right to 
 the land within certain bounds. Thus, this word is continued 
 as a remembrancer of the original intent of dividing the land 
 by boundaries ; and implies, that it was equitably or rightly di- 
 vided, that is divided according to righteousness. In this, that 
 is in equity and righteousness, consists the strength of our 
 claim. If we trace an unrighteous claim, and find gifts or 
 grants proved bj' sufficient seals and witnesses, it gives not the 
 claimant a right ; for that which is opposite to righteousness, is 
 wrong ; and the nature of it must be changed before it can ba 
 right. 
 
 Suppose twenty free men, professed followers of Christ, dis- 
 covered an island, and that they with their wives, independent 
 of all others, took possession of it, and dividing it equally, 
 made improvements, and multiplied ; suppose these first poss- 
 essors, being generally influenced by true love, did with pater- 
 nal regard look over the increasing condition of the inhabitants, 
 and near the end of their lives, gave such directions concerning 
 their respective possessions, as best suited the convenience 
 of the whole, and tended to preserve love and harmony ; and 
 that their successors in the continued increase of people, gener- 
 ally followed their pious example, and pursued means the most 
 effectual to keep oppression out of their island ; but that one of 
 these first settlers, from a fond attachment to one of his numer- 
 ous sons, no more deserving than the rest, gives the chief of 
 his lands to him ; and by an instrument sufficiently witnessed, I 
 strongly expressed his mind and will : — Suppose this son, being 
 landlord to his brethren and nephews, demands such a portion 
 of the fruits of the earth, as may supply himself, his family, 
 and some others ; and that these others, thus supplied out of his 
 store, are employed in adorning his building with curious en- 
 
335 
 
 gravings and paintings, preparing carriages to ride in, vessels for 
 his house, delicious meats, fine wrought apparel and furniture, 
 all suiting that distinction lately arisen between him and the 
 other inhabitants ; and that having the absolute disposal of these 
 numerous improvements, his power so increaseth, that in all 
 conferences relative to the public affairs of the island, these 
 plain, honest men, who are zealous for equitable establishments, 
 find great difficulty in proceeding agreeably to their righteous 
 inclinations : — Suppose this son from a fondness to one of his 
 children, joined with a desire to continue this grandeur under 
 his own name, confirms the chief of his possessions to him, and 
 thus, for many ages, there is one great landlord over near a 
 twentieth part of this island, and the rest are poor oppress- 
 ed peopl#; to some of whom, from the manner of their educa- 
 tion, joined with a notion of the greatness of their predecessors, 
 labour is disagreeable; who therefore, by artful applications to 
 the weakness, unguardedness, and corruptions of others, in 
 striving to get a living out of them, increase the difficulties 
 among them, while the inhabitants of other parts, who guard 
 against oppression, and, with one consent, train up their child- 
 ren in frugality and useful labour, live more harmoniously': — If 
 we trace the claims of the ninth or tenth of these great land- 
 lords, down to the first possessor, and find the claim supported 
 throughout by instruments strongly drawn and witnessed ; 
 after all, we could not admit a belief into our hearts, that ha 
 had a right to so great a portion of land, after . such a numer- 
 ous increase of inhabitants. 
 
 The first possessor of that twentieth part, held no more, 
 we suppose, than an equitable portion ; but wheft the Lord, 
 who first gave these twenty men possession of this island, 
 unknown to all others, gave being to numerous people who 
 inhabited the twentieth part, whose natures required the fruits 
 thereof for their sustenance, this great claimer of the soil, 
 
33G 
 
 could not have a right to the whole, to dispose of it in gratify 
 ing his irregular desires ; but they, as creatures of the mos 
 high God, possessor of Heaven and earth, had a right t 
 part of what this great claimer held, though they had n 
 instruments to confirm their right : Thus oppression in th 
 extreme appears terrible ; but oppression in more refined ap 
 pearances, remains to be oppression, and when the smalles 
 degree of it is cherished, it grows stronger and more extensive 
 To labour for a perfect redemption from this spirit of op 
 pression, is the great business of the whole family of Chris 
 Jesus, in this world. 
 
 JOHN WOOLMAN 
 
A TRIBUTE TO THE MEMORY 
 
 JOHN WOOLMAN. 
 
 I'here is glory to me in tliy name, 
 
 Meek follower of Dethlehem's Child ! 
 More touching by far than the splendours of fame, 
 
 With which the vain world is beguil'd : — 
 'Tis the glory of goodness, tlie praise of the just, 
 Which outlives even death, and is fragrant in dust. 
 
 The Warrior may win for his brow 
 
 The proud victor chaplet of bay ; — 
 But innocent blood sheds a stain on the bough, 
 
 And dims its most beautiful ray ; 
 While Humanity turns from the pageant aside ; 
 By the sorrows and sufF'rings of others supplied. 
 
 Success on the Bard may bestow 
 
 The myrtle-wreath meed of bis lays ; 
 And brightly and gaily that trophy may glow 
 
 In the sunshine of popular praise : — 
 But if Virtue have turn'd from his page with disgust, 
 Soon, soon shall the trophy surrender its trust. 
 
 A King in his crown may rejoice : 
 
 And Rank of its titles be proud ; 
 The Singer exult in the charms of his voice ; 
 
 And Pomp in the gaze of a crowd ; 
 And the martyr of wealth render'di poor by his store. 
 Be bow'd to by those who his idtdi adore. 
 V 
 
338 
 
 Yet the King must descend from his throne, 
 
 When the day of Jehovah shall come ; 
 And titles be trustless and pomp stand alone. 
 
 And the voice of the Singer be dumb ; — 
 And Mammon, once worshipp'd, be loath'd and abhorr'd, 
 In the just, and the terrible day of the LonD ! 
 
 Then who with acceptance shall stand 
 
 In the presence of glory and light; 
 ^ Having palm-branch, or censer, or harp in the hand, 
 
 And array'd in apparel of white — 
 While that volume its awful contents shall reveal. 
 Which the Lion of Judah alone can unseal ? 
 
 Even they who through great tribulation 
 
 Have worshipp'd the Holy I AM ! 
 Whose spiritual garments are pure by lavation 
 
 In the all-cleansing blood of the Lamb ! 
 Tjs these, and these only, by day, and by night, 
 Shall kneel in his temple, and stand in his sight. 
 
 Fi-om them must the chorus ascend 
 Which shall peal through the confines of space, 
 
 Of " Holy ! thrice Holy ! and praise without end 
 Unto God for the gift- of His Geace; 
 
 And praise to the Lamb, who for mortals was slain. 
 
 Yet liveth, for ever and ever to reign!" 
 
 In that heavenly and heart-thrilling song, 
 
 O Woolman! can silence be thine? 
 Or wilt thou not join with the jubilant throng. 
 
 In hosannas to glory divine? 
 Even such the fruition Faith whispers for thee 
 Nor happier, nor holier, could recompense be. 
 
 For since those miraculous days 
 
 When marvellous wonders were rife. 
 When the blind gaz'd with joy, and the dumb sang with praise, 
 
 And the dead were restor'd unto life, — 
 I know not of one whom my heart could allow 
 More worthy the name of Apostle than thou. 
 
339 
 
 Though not upon thee were outpour'd 
 
 The gifts of that primitive age, 
 When wonders and signs spoke the power of tlie Lord, 
 
 And baffled Priest, Monarch, and Sage, — 
 In the heart's secret temple an altar was thine. 
 And a priesthood was given in the innermost shrine. 
 
 Not to outward and visible sense 
 
 Did that priesthood, or altar appeal ; 
 Yet pure were the oracles uttered from thence. 
 
 And stamped with a, questionless seal, — 
 A seal — which the spirit that felt them confest 
 By the power of thy cauciriED Master imprest. 
 
 His glory alone was thy aim; — 
 
 His kingdom's advance was thy scope; — 
 And THE Cross which He bore, with its sufPring and shame, 
 
 The object and end of thy hope! 
 By faith in this hope was thy spirit snstain'd. 
 Through that Cross was the crown of apostleship gain'd. 
 
 Then well may I think of thy name 
 
 Meek follower of Bethlehem's Child ! 
 As enwreath'd with a glory more touching than fame, 
 
 By which the vain world is beguil'd; — 
 That gloi-y by Christ and His Gospel made known, 
 Which proclaims not thy praise but thy Master's alone ! 
 
 BERNARD BARTON. 
 12th mo. Sth, 1823. 
 
 Printed by Thomas Hurst, Warrington. 
 
Cornell University Library 
 BX7795.W91 A3 1840 
 
 Journal of the life, igospel labours, and 
 
 olin 
 
 3 1924 029 466 137