• '' 
 
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BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME 
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Cornell University Library 
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 Quaker post-baa; letters to Sir John Rod 
 
 olin 
 
 3 1924 029 463 118 
 
Cornell University 
 Library 
 
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 There are no known copyright restrictions in 
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 http://www.archive.org/cletails/cu31924029463118 
 
A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 

A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 LETTERS TO SIR JOHN RODES 
 OF BARLBROUGH HALL, IN THE 
 COUNTY OF DERBY, BARONET, AND 
 TO JOHN GRATTON OF MONYASH 
 1693-1742 
 
 SELECTED AND EDITED BY 
 
 MRS. GODFREY LOCKER LAMPSON 
 
 WITH A PREFACE BY 
 
 AUGUSTINE BIRRELL 
 
 WITH ILLUSTRATIONS 
 
 LONGMANS, GREEN AND CO. 
 
 39 PATERNOSTER ROW, LONDON 
 
 NEW YORK, BOMBAY, AND CALCUTTA 
 
 1910 
 
 All rights reserved 
 I/, 
 
 \ 
 
PREFACE 
 
 These letters have lain at Barlbrough in Derby- 
 shire for more than two hundred years, and are now 
 printed for the first time for any one who may care 
 to read them, with such thoughts over a buried past 
 as he may be able to muster. It is with some 
 reluctance that their present owner has taken the 
 letters out of the carved chestnut boxes, where they 
 have so long rested, enjoying a Silence, and bathed 
 with a Stillness, beyond any Quakers' meeting- 
 house ; unaltered by the slow passage of time, 
 save in an increasing dimness of the careful hand- 
 writing. If any one bluntly asks, what can such 
 artless, courageous Piety have to say to an Age like 
 ours, there is reaUy no need to hammer out an 
 answer, for is not this too a fleeting Age, bound 
 to disappear like every other ? May not therefore 
 the lady responsible for publication be content to 
 shelter herself behind the venerable excuse "the 
 request of Friends, both inside and out of the 
 Quaker profession." 
 
 The Sir John Rodes (i 693-1 742) to whom 
 these letters were addressed was a descendant of 
 the Elizabethan judge, Francis Rodes, who built 
 Barlbrough Hall in 1583 ; a great-grandson of the 
 Sir Francis Rodes who fought for King Charles in 
 
vi PREFACE 
 
 Ireland and was made a Baronet ; and great-grand- 
 son of Sir Gervase Clifton, who, as William Penn 
 points out in one of the letters, hereafter printed, is 
 "handsomely mentioned" in Whitelock's Memorials. 
 
 Sir John's father, though he made a pious ending, 
 does not appear to have joined the Friends, though 
 that his mother, Martha Thornton, did so clearly 
 appears by her letters to her son. 
 
 Sir John himself has left no letters behind him, 
 but in the Journal of Thomas Storey may be found 
 some references to him and the household at Barl- 
 brough. Thus in 1 7 1 4 Storey writes : " I went 
 that evening to Balber Hall to Sir John Rodes, 
 and William Thompson with me, where I was kindly 
 received by him and by the old lady his mother. 
 There I stayed several days and had good conver- 
 sations with them, being very open-minded and 
 courteous, and of a good understanding in the 
 Things of God. He was convinced when young 
 and held his integrity through many temptations. 
 But his circumstances differing from most among 
 us in some respects, he never married, having a 
 great aversion to all that was wanton, light or vain, 
 and being of nice sentiments, both as to vertue, 
 temper, education and Parts, all these (as I suppose) 
 he has not found to concur so perfectly in any one 
 agreeable person, as both to please the Delicacy ot 
 his own judgment and suit the good likings of his 
 Friends, which probably may have rendered his life 
 less satisfactory, having for the most part little 
 agreeable society, and though very sensible of these 
 and many other disadvantages in this world for the 
 
PREFACE 
 
 Vll 
 
 sake of truth, yet he stands Steady and True, pre- 
 ferring the simplicity of Truth and the enjoyment 
 of it before all other things." 
 
 This subtle estimate of the character of Sir John 
 Rodes agrees to a shade of nicety with the judgment 
 any careful reader of the letters, addressed to him, 
 will be likely to form of his reserved and elusive 
 personality. 
 
 Despite the pious efforts of many Quaker match- 
 makers. Sir John Rodes died in 1 743 unmarried. 
 
 Sir John Rodes and his mother. Lady Rodes, and 
 his two married sisters, Ann Thornton and Frances 
 Heathcote, the wife of Dr. Gilbert Heathcote, 
 were in the inner circle of the Quakerdom of their 
 day, and the intimate friends of William Penn, 
 the foremost Friend of all time, and of most of 
 the good folk, whose names are still known to 
 students of the Quaker history. Friends were ever 
 welcome at Barlbrough, whose shy owner they 
 would have liked to see married to some pious 
 damsel. (" A friend or two of thine have thought 
 of a person to be thy wife, if thou shalt think so. 
 She is young and hath a great deal of money, and 
 it is believed her Parents would be easy to consent," 
 see p. 132.) 
 
 Peace to their memories ! They were quarrel- 
 some, but so are doves, and their friendships were 
 eternal. " Death cannot kill what never dies," says 
 William Penn in a beautiful passage on the 
 " Union of Friends." " Death is but crossing 
 the world as friends cross the seas." 
 
 And what of their Wisdom ? Who among us 
 
VIU 
 
 PREFACE 
 
 dare account them especially foolish ? If any one 
 would read of a true Quaker conversion circa 
 1659, let him take down the "History of the Life 
 of Thomas Elwood," 17 14. They will find how it 
 all came about from a visit to the Penningtons at 
 Chalfont in county Bucks, as naturally as any 
 Tractarian conversion may have resulted circa 
 1830-40 from a visit to a country rectory. 
 
 One thing in the strange history of the Quakers 
 stands out in the clearest relief. Despite their 
 bold denial of all the Sacraments and of any kind 
 of formal Priesthood, or ministry, denials which, 
 in the first instance, brought down upon their 
 covered heads the whole forces of all the hatreds 
 of a Christendom for once united, they neverthe- 
 less were the first, and for a long, long time the 
 only. Nonconformists to obtain the protection of the 
 law. This they won, not by political strife, but by 
 a sublime indifference to consequences, legal or 
 social. Unable to swear, they found the Courts 
 closed against them, when in pursuit of their 
 civil remedies. They submitted in silence, and 
 were the more careful not to make bad debts. 
 Marriage was only to be had within the walls 
 of the Establishment. All other Nonconformists, 
 wishing to wed, went to Church, at least once in 
 their lives, fearing bastardy for their offspring. 
 The Quakers feared nothing, did not go to Church, 
 kept their own Registers, and made it a matter of 
 religion never to die intestate. This attitude of 
 sublime indifference was soon found intolerable. 
 In 1696 Quakers were allowed to affirm in Courts 
 
PREFACE ix 
 
 of Justice, and in 1754 their marriages outside the 
 walls of either Church or Chapel were recognised. 
 No such consideration was shown to more orthodox 
 Nonconformists for a century or so. Quaker 
 history stands alone in its indomitable success. 
 If it is finished, it is a pity. 
 
 AUGUSTINE BIRRELL. 
 
INTRODUCTORY NOTE 
 
 The present owner of these letters, as Mr. Birrell 
 has said in his Preface, feels some diffidence in 
 taking them from the boxes which for generations 
 have been the resting-place of much correspondence 
 concerning the family of Rodes during the sixteenth, 
 seventeenth, and eighteenth centuries, correspondence 
 tor the most part undistinguished, and merely in- 
 teresting to the conscientious student of county 
 history. Fragrant with memories of innocent family 
 love and untarnished friendship, it has seemed 
 almost an act of sacrilege to thrust them upon a 
 reading public already fed to satiety with memoirs 
 and correspondence of every conceivable country 
 and epoch. " Of making many books there is no 
 end." It is felt, however, that these simple annals 
 of the Society of Friends two hundred years ago 
 will be of real and abiding interest to their de- 
 scendants in the faith at the present time, both in 
 America and at home, and for this reason, as well 
 as in response to many requests for the publication of 
 the " Penn " letters, this little book has been issued. 
 Sir John Rodes of Barlbrough was the fourth 
 and last baronet of his name, the first baronet being 
 Sir Francis Rodes, who married Elizabeth, daughter 
 and heir of Sir George Lassells of Sturton and Gate- 
 ford in Nottinghamshire. This Francis was the 
 grandson of Judge Francis Rodes of Staveley-Wood- 
 thorpe, one of the judges of the common pleas in the 
 reign of Elizabeth, to whom the practice of the law 
 
xii INTRODUCTORY NOTE 
 
 does not seem to have been unprofitable, for, besides 
 Barlbrough Hall in Derbyshire, which he left to 
 his eldest son John, he also built two other houses, 
 Hickleton, for his son Peter, and Great Houghton, 
 in Yorkshire, for his son Godfrey, knighted in 1 6 1 5, 
 whose daughter Elizabeth was the third wife of the 
 ill-fated Earl of Strafford. Judge Rodes's second son, 
 Francis, was apparently passed over in this distribu- 
 tion of mansions. Possibly he was less worthy than 
 the others, and early developed traits of character 
 which, in later life, led to his being mentioned in 
 certain family letters as having " hir'd three trusty 
 fellows from Eckington to break into Brother 
 Rodes's new house at Barlbrough." 
 
 Sir John Rodes, the Quaker, was the only sur- 
 viving son of the third Sir Francis, his mother being 
 Martha Thornton, daughter of William Thornton 
 of Grantham, in Lincolnshire, and sister of Cyprian 
 Thornton of Bloxham, in the same county. The 
 Quakers, at that time, were mostly men of the 
 humbler sort, and John Rodes was evidently of 
 some account amongst them. In these later (and 
 so much wiser) days it is delightful to read of the 
 exceeding joy of these simple people at the conversion 
 to their faith of one baronet. 
 
 Sir John Rodes died unmarried in October 1743, 
 when the baronetcy became extinct, and his estates 
 in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire passed to his 
 great-nephew, Gilbert Heathcote, who assumed the 
 surname of Rodes. 
 
 S. F. LOCKER LAMPSON. 
 
 Barlbrough Hall, 
 Chesterfield. 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 Preface v 
 
 Introductory Note xi 
 
 Letter — William Penn to Sir John Rodes, 1693 3 
 
 )) )! i> >) )i 1694 8 
 
 ,, „ „ John Gratton, 1695 . 9 
 
 „ „ ,, Sir John Rodes, 1697 10 
 
 „ „ „ John Gratton, 1699 • i^ 
 
 Letters of Martha Rodes to her Son, 1690-1713 13 
 
 Letters of Henry Gouldney, 1690-1725 . . 45 
 
 Letters of John Tomkins, i 694-1 703 . . . m 
 
 Letters of Silvanus Bevan, 17 19-1742 . . -197 
 
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 
 
 Sir John Rodes {Photogravure) . . Frontispiece 
 
 From a miniature at Barlbrcnigh Hall 
 
 Facsimile of one of William Penn's 
 
 Letters To face page lo 
 
 Martha, Wife of Sir Francis Rodes 
 
 {Photogravure) . . , . „ 30 
 
 From an oil fainting at Barlbrough Hall 
 
 The Address to King George . . „ 100 
 
 Barlbrough Hall in i8th Century 
 North Front .... 
 
 From water-colour drawings by S. H. GRIMM 
 
 io8 
 
 A Quaker Marriage Certificate . At end of Volume 
 
LETTERS OF WILLIAM PENN 
 1693—1699 
 
A (QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 From William Penn to Sir John Rodes 
 
 For 
 S"" John Rodes 
 
 att 
 Joseph Storrs 
 
 Wollen-Draper 
 In Chesterfield. 
 
 the I 1693. 
 
 Dear Friend, — I hope I shall allways be ready to 
 show thee how much I desire thy prosperity every 
 way. It is long I have travelled in my spirit for 
 thee and knowing the temptations that would grow 
 upon thee and the evill days by means thereof that 
 must attend thee, I have prayed that thy faith 
 fail not, and that thou faintest not by the way ; 
 for thou hast been called to a glorious mark, even 
 that of an Heirship with the Beloved of God in 
 Eternal Habitations. The Lord preserve thee to 
 the end. Now as to w' I meant at C. Mars.^ it is 
 this : a Course or Method of life as far as we can 
 be our own, I would divide my days of the week, 
 and then the times of the day, and when I had 
 
 ' Christmas. 
 3 
 
4 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Considered and divided my business, I would pro- 
 portion it to my time. Suppose, for example, thus : 
 J to Religion, in Waiting, Reading, Meditating &c. 
 ... J to some generall study. J to meals and 
 some Bodily Labour as Gardening, or some Mathe- 
 maticall Exercise. |- to serve friends or neighbours 
 and look after my Estate ; It prevents consumption 
 of time and confusion in Business. The books 
 I spoke of that are most valuable for a moderate 
 Library are as follow. For Religion the Bible, 
 Friends' Books, of w'^'' I advise an exact collection, 
 binding the small up in vollumes together. The 
 Books of Martyrs. For Controversy between Pap 
 and Protestants Bp Jewel against Harding. L"* 
 Faulkland of Infalibility, and Chillingworth. For 
 Devotion the Scriptures, Friends' Epistles, Austin 
 his City of God, his Soliloquies, Thorn a Kempis, 
 Bona, a late piece called Unum Necessarium, and 
 a Voyce crying out of the Wilderness writt in Q 
 Elizabeth's time ; of Books forrunning Friends 
 appearance, T. Saltmarsh, W. Dell, W. Erberry, 
 Goad, Coppins, & Webster his Works. For 
 Religious History Eusebius, Bp Usher's Annals, 
 Cradock of the Apostles, History of the Waldenses, 
 S" Sam Morland's of the Persecutions in Piedmont. 
 Of mixt & generall History Prideaux, thin quarto, 
 Petavius, a thin folio. Afterwards D"' Howel late 
 of Cambridge, not forgetting S' W. Raleigh's for 
 his Preface sake. For natural Philosophy Enchi- 
 ridion Physical and some of Sqr Boyle's Works. 
 For Mathematicks, Leyborn. For Physick, Riverius 
 For the Gall, Way, and for Chymistry le Faber 
 unless a Practitionner, then, Helmont, Glauber 
 
LETTERS OF WILLIAM PENN 5 
 
 CroUius, Hartman Scroder & Tibaut &c. ; and 
 for Improvem" of Lands & Gardens Blith & Smith, 
 Systema Agriculturae, English and French Gardener. 
 For Policy, above all Books, the Bible, that is, 
 the old Testam' writings, Thucydes, Tacitus, 
 Council of Trent, Machieval, Thynanus, Grotius's 
 Annals. Of our own Country Daniel and Trussel. 
 S-- F--. Bacon Life of H. f\ U Herbert's H. 
 8"^ and Cambden Eliz. S" Thorn. Moor's Utopia. 
 Nat. Bacon. Hist, of the Gov. of E. Saddler's 
 Rights of the Kingdom, S" Rob Cotten's Works, 
 the Pamphlets since the Reformation pro et con. 
 to be had at the Acorn, in Pauls Yard, to be 
 bound up together, comprisable in about 6 quarto 
 voUumes. Rushworths Collections, tho large, are 
 not unusefuU, being particular, and our own History 
 and the best since 30. w"*" is the chieftest time of 
 Action. But I will add one more, the English 
 Memorials, by the Lord "Whitlock, a great man, and 
 who dyed a Confessor to Truth, in w""" thy Grand 
 father is handsomely mentioned.^ Thes for the 
 main Body of a study will be sufficient and very 
 accomplishing. 
 
 There are other Books of use and vallue, as 
 Selden of Tythes, Tayler's Liberty of Prophesy, 
 Goodwin's Antiquities, Cave's Primative Christianity, 
 Morals of the Gentiles, Plutarch, Seneca, Epictetus, 
 M.A. Antoninus. Also Lives, as Plutarch, Stanly's 
 of the Philosophers, Lloyd's State Worthys, Clark's 
 Lives and Winstanley's England's Worthys. There 
 are 6 or 8. Books publisht by one R. B. as the 
 
 ^ Probably his great-grandfather, Sir Gervase Clifton. See 
 Whitlock's " Memorials of the English Affairs," p. 185. 
 
6 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 History of England, S and J surprising Miracles, 
 Admirable Curiositys & that have profitable 
 diversion in them. But if I were to begin again, 
 I would buy as I read, or but a few more at least, 
 and in Reading have a Pencil, and w' is of Instruc- 
 tion or observable, mark it in the Margent with the 
 most leading word and collect those memorandums 
 with their Pages into a clean sheet put into the 
 Book or a Pocket Book for that purpose, w"*" is the 
 way to fasten w' one reads and to be master of other 
 mens sense. 
 
 Allways write thy name in the Title Pages, if not 
 year and cost, that if lent, the Owner may be better 
 remembred and found. Observe to put down in 
 a Pocket-Book, for that purpose, all openings of 
 moment w"*" are usually short, but full and lively ; 
 for I have few things to remember with more 
 trouble then forgetting of such irrecoverable 
 Thoughts and Reflections. I have lost a voUume 
 of them. They come without toyle or beating 
 the Brain, therefore the purer, and upon all subjects, 
 Nature, Grace, and Art. Thou art young, now 
 is the time and use it to the utmost profit. Oh ! 
 had I thy time in all likelihood to live, w' could 
 I not do. Therefore, prize thy time. I am now 
 26 years beyond thy age, and tho I have done 
 and sufferd much, I could be a better Husband 
 of that most precious Jewel. The Lord direct thee 
 in thy ways, and he will, if thou take him for 
 thy Guide, and if he be the Guide of thy Youth, 
 to be sure he will not leave thee in thy old age. 
 To him I committ thee and to the word of his Grace 
 with w'^'' is wisdom and a sound understanding that 
 
LETTERS OF WILLIAM PENN 7 
 
 makes men Gentlemen indeed and accomplisht to 
 inherit both Worlds, for the Earth is for the Meek, 
 and Heaven for the Poor and Pure in Heart and 
 spirit. 
 
 Give my love and respects to thy Mother and 
 Relations ; all your welfare in the Lord I wish and 
 am affectionately Thy Cordial friend 
 
 W. P. 
 
 My dear love salutes friends and J. Gr.^ especially. 
 My indisposition with the toothache obliged me 
 to use an other hand. Farewell. 
 
 1 forgot Law Books, as the Statutes at Large and 
 abridged — Doctors and Students, Horn's Mirror of 
 Justice, Cook's Institutes, the Compleat Justice, 
 Sheriff, Constable & Clark, and of Wills, Godolphin, 
 Justinians Institutes is an excellent book also.^ 
 
 * John Gratton, Quaker preacher of Monyash, Derbyshire ; 
 died 9th of first month 1711-12, aged sixty-nine. 
 
 ^ Many of the books recommended by Penn to John Rodes are 
 still in the library at Barlbrough, and John did not forget to in- 
 scribe his name in all of them, but not, alas, the " year and cost." 
 
 William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania and the most 
 romantic figure in the whole of Quaker history, was born in a 
 house near the Tower of London in 1644. His father was Admiral 
 Sir William Penn, a man of wealth and distinction, who was in 
 great favour at Court, and his conversion to Quaker ideals meant 
 breaking with all the old friends and the old life — but he never 
 wavered, and perhaps the happiest of his days were those spent 
 in the quiet Buckinghamshire home of Isaac Penington, with 
 Thomas Ellwood and Gulielma Springett, Penington's step- 
 daughter, who afterwards became his wife. 
 
 Despairing of liberty of conscience in England, Penn carried 
 out the "Holy Experiment," and obtained from the EngHsh 
 Government (instead of a sum of ^15,000, which was due to him at 
 his father's death), a Charter for the ownership of a large tract of 
 
A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 William Penn to Sir John Rodes 
 
 To Charles Hartford, Jn^. 
 in 
 Bristoll 
 For S"" John Rodes. 
 
 Lond. 31. 5. 94- 
 
 Dear Friend,— With my love to thee and com- 
 pany ; know by this I had thyn, was glad of your 
 well fare, and very sorry for my entanglements that 
 gave so many good desires a dis-apointment. I have 
 payd so dear for my last Leaveing the town, I finde 
 my selfe engaged to persue this to a period before 
 I quit it again. If I can be with you 7"" night 
 by flying coach I shall, but to see friends by the 
 way is impossible. We have managed our after 
 game the best that was possible, and I hope yet, a 
 pretty good issue. I received great civilitys and 
 better truly — from severall, and some rubs, that 
 are smoothed. 
 
 This gave me an opertunity to visit Rochester to 
 my unspeakable comfort, not only in beholding the 
 beautifull eiFects of former services, but an addition 
 of an other member or two upon this visit, though 
 they were restless ever since the last we had, that is 
 
 country in America, on the banks of the Ohio river and north of 
 the province of Maryland. This was Pennsylvania, the " Forest of 
 Penn," and here he chose the site of Philadelphia, the " City of 
 Brotherly Love." Penn died in England, not in the land of which 
 he was the governor and which was called after his name, and 
 he was laid to rest in the quiet burying ground at Jordans, in 
 Buckinghamshire, by the side of his first wife and his son 
 Springett. 
 
LETTERS OF WILLIAM PENN 9 
 
 D' F''. St^ and I, 2 publick meetings on first day, 
 and one in private with friends, and as oyly an one, 
 as we have had ma(ny) a day. Also a farewell 
 pub(lic)k one on 2 day afternoon, and to our souls 
 content, and came up last night's tyde off boats, and 
 am through mercy better for it, the numbers, and 
 their seriousness and tenderness are hardly to be 
 exprest for the place. So the Lord be with us all, 
 and keep us low, and tender and steadfast in his 
 precious Truth in which I salute you and desire thy 
 encrease, being thy very true Friend 
 
 W. P. 
 
 My love to all Friends as is named. I am even 
 with you for bad writeing. 
 
 William Penn to John Gratton 
 
 To William Storr in Chesterfield 
 
 for J. Gratton Darbyshire. 
 
 Lond. 21.6. 95. 
 
 D" John, — My unfeined dear love salutes and 
 embraces thee. Know, I had both thy dear letters 
 at my Comeing to Town, and still hold my resolu- 
 tion, if the Lord will, in a month or 6 weeks, if (I) 
 can, and I hope by that time to be at liberty. My 
 way will be from Bucks to Northampton and so the 
 road to Nots, of which may inform thee. I rejoyce 
 thou art better. If thou canst drink Garlick boyled 
 
 ' Francis Stamper, Quaker preacher, of the parish of St. 
 Edmund the King and Martyr, Lombard Street, London ; died 
 1698, and was buried in Bunhill Fields. 
 
lo A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 in milk, or an handful! of Ivory shaveings — boyled 
 in clear whit wine posset, drink it, and, then drink 
 the posset drink (a pint). I hope thy Jaundice will 
 be cured. So with my dear love to thee, thyn and 
 Friends, I close, with deep owings of thy dear love, 
 and prayers for thy preservation I am Thy assured 
 friend W. P. 
 
 D*^ John, the expectations of people are great and 
 my abasement instead of exaltation and pray that 
 God may help and defend, and carry through, it 
 is my peculier trial and travail I am sure. 
 
 For S'' John Rodes 
 
 At Balbrough. 
 
 Brist. 27. 5. 97. 
 
 Dear Friend,^ — Many carefull thoughts has the 
 love of God filled my heart with for thy preservation, 
 praying fervently that strength, and powr, and love, 
 may attend thee, to encourage thee in thy obedience 
 and service to and for the Truth, which shall prevaile, 
 and does in divers parts, abundantly, blessed be the 
 Lord, many being enclined and some added, and 
 those of good note among men and many are ripe 
 unto harvest. And Dear John, I have often be- 
 grug'ed thee thy unactive life. The proverb is 
 wise : Use leggs and have them. Gett abroad, and 
 mix with liveing friends and thou will feel an en- 
 crease in thy bosome, and it will engage thee more 
 in an universal! spirit and general! service. The 
 Lord that found tliee out and called thee, intended 
 thee other work than to spend thy youth, the cream 
 of thy time, in a retired unconcerned silence. It 
 
LETTERS OF WILLIAM PENN ii 
 
 does not fill up thy caling nor quality. Thy out- 
 ward Character, as a man, and thy service in the 
 Church are at too great a disproportion. We have 
 bitter adversarys, and want helpers : It were a fine 
 Introduction for thee, many friends would be glad 
 of thy company in their travails. I can say It was 
 my delight, and I thought it my honour to be 
 admitted to such fellowship and service, and so will 
 that eye and minde that sees and Judges right. It 
 has been often in my heart to visit thee, and I embrace 
 this season, tho otherwise much prest in service and 
 business. Pray give thy Mother and the Doctor^ 
 my Salutes. The Lord engage you all with an ever- 
 lasting obligation, that your portion may be with the 
 redeemed of the Lord for ever, amen. I am Thy 
 assured and affect. Friend 
 
 Wm. Penn. 
 
 To Sam<=i Allen in 
 
 Chesterfield 
 For J. Gratton Darbyshire 
 
 Lond. 51;h mo. 99. 
 
 Dear John, — I can easily pass by thy reproofs, be- 
 cause they come from love, but I have forgot myself 
 much if I writt not to thee long since, directed to 
 Jos. Storr for thee at Moniash. However, my love 
 is, as it should be, very dearly to thee in the abide- 
 ing truth, where it lives and springs to all Gods 
 
 1 Dr. Gilbert Heathcote, of Cutthorpe, Chesterfield, who had 
 married Frances Rodes, Sir John's sister. He was the son of 
 George Heathcote, of Cutthorpe, and Lydia, sister of Cornelius 
 Clarke, of Norton Hall, who built and endowed the first dissenting 
 chapel in Chesterfield. 
 
12 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Heritage every where without Guile ; and in which 
 the Lord preserve us, and all will do well with us. 
 Dear John, I remember thee often, and have fellow- 
 ship with thee and thy Dear wife, and the faithful. 
 Know my eye is towards America.^ At BristoU 
 yearly meeting I hope to be ; but for London, I say 
 little and hope not, for time speeds, and heats will 
 come in, and some spirits have enough to tame and 
 employ them. Days of perplexity are hastening and 
 Europe will soon be a place of trouble, and my 
 retreat I hope will be pleasant to me. I shall say 
 little more at the present, only, forget not thy 
 suffering but faithfull Friend and Brother, 
 
 W. P. 
 
 ' Penn returned to America 1699. 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 
 TO HER SON 
 
 1690 — 1713 
 
For 
 
 Sir John Rodes 
 
 My D" Innocent and Pretious babe, — Thou art 
 my Cheifest Earthly Comfort, the desire of my hart 
 and delight of my Eyes, my son in whom I take 
 pleasure and bless the God of my life for his 
 Mercyes in giving me such A son . . . w° thou 
 left me, I was very heavy and much out of order, 
 and so I Continued till towards Evening. Robert 
 Harrison was so kind, as to Come and see me that 
 day w*^*" deverted me very much, and brought me 
 out of my MallincoUy Humour, and we had A very 
 Good time together, so I praise God I been prette 
 well satisfied since, and willing to Commit thee to 
 the Care and protection of Him who is able to keep 
 thee in Perfect health, both soul and body. 
 
 I have just now re'' the welcome news of thy 
 being gott well to London, and thy Intentions of 
 writing to me next Post w'"'" I shall be glad to receive 
 A few lines from thee my D''"' Child. I desire 
 thee to remember my love in Generall to friends as 
 thou thinks on, Forgitt not my Cozen Morris,^ and her 
 husband and Francis Stamper and W. P.,^ and all the 
 rest ... so with unfained Love to thee, in w'^'' I 
 tenderly Salute thee and remain thy affectionate 
 Mother in the blessed truth 
 
 M. Rodes. 
 
 ' Isabel Yeatman, wife of Abraham Morris. Her maiden name 
 was Fell. She was a step-daughter of George Fox. 
 ''■ William Penn. 
 
 15 
 
1 6 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 The lo of the 4th month. 
 Thou may tell S. B./ that I wish he Could light of 
 A Good bargain of Sugar and send it down by water, 
 if there be mony to spare, not Els, for I am not will- 
 ing to run into debt, for I am the burnt Child that 
 dreads the fire upon that account and it is against 
 my judgm', though I have too much practised, but I 
 thinke to be more carefuU for the time to Come. . . . 
 
 For Sr John Rodes 
 att William Meads 
 in Fanshaw-Street 
 att the Sign of the Ship 
 
 London. 
 
 June the 14, 1690. 
 
 JMy D" Lamb, — I rec*^ thine dated the 10 of this 
 Instant. I was glad to heare thou wast recovered thy 
 journey, and so willing to return home againe so 
 speedely. I hope their may be an opertunity fall 
 out, w" W. Pen returns back againe for thee to goe 
 to the bath, for I am yet desirous thou should make 
 A triall of them waters ; but at present I am more 
 willing thou shoulds be at home, because of W. 
 Pen's Coming into the Country, for I would not 
 have thee absent by no means w" he comes. I heer 
 by Francis Ludlame, my brother ^ is come home, and 
 was robbed upon his jorny twenty miles of this side 
 London. They took twenty Guinyes from him and 
 w' Silver he had and his sword. He was in a 
 Hackney Coach, and their was 3 men besides him 
 and one woman, and they took her watch from her 
 
 ' Samuel Barker, Lady Rodes' bailiff. 
 
 ^ Ciprian Thornton of Bloxham, Lincolnshire. 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 17 
 
 and robed them all, and their came A gentleman and 
 his man by, whilst they was searching of them, and 
 they fell upon them and robed them also. They 
 would A perswaded them to A left them something 
 to A born their Charges, but the thiefes Answered 
 and said : such Gentleman as they, had credit upon 
 the road. I would have thee forcast to have Com- 
 pany down ; but I trust and hope God Almighty 
 v/ill preserve thee and keep thee from the Enimy, 
 both outwardly and inwardly ; it is him alone that I 
 put my Confidence in, for my Expectation is from 
 him only. Remember to inquire about my Sister 
 Hussies Children — thou may tell S. Barker, his 
 Children is gon to Atterclife. I would have thee 
 mind him of speaking to Clark and sound him, that 
 we may know w' would stop his mouth, for I am 
 very fearfull of Law sutes, by reason of my Larg 
 Experience that I have had of the Charge and 
 trouble they bring, w"^ does much disquiet me, and 
 I have been set very hard to bear them ; but blessed 
 be God, I have found him A present help in my 
 needfuU time of trouble. If thou hear of any ships 
 going to Virginia, I would have thee write to Charles 
 Rodes,^ to give him an Account we have written. 
 This young S. Clarke tel'd me w" he was heare, he 
 would undertake to Convey a letter safe to him, so, 
 if thee can light of him, I would have thee write to 
 C. Rodes and wish him to write speedely back, for I 
 have a great desire to heare from him. I desire 
 thee to tell S. Barker I would have him to by me A 
 silk dust Coat to ride in, for I find Camlit is so thick 
 for this hot wether, I cannot well indure it. I wod 
 
 ^ Charles Rodes, a cousin settled in America. 
 
1 8 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 have it A Grave Colour ; It is A slight kind of a 
 silk, and will not cost much. I would have as much 
 as to make me A riding coat and petticoat ; if it be 
 a yard broad, 3 breadths will be enugh for the Peti- 
 coat. If S. B. does not understand w' silk I mean, 
 he may call at Betty Ash and she can inform him w' 
 is used for dust Coats, w' sort of silk — I write to 
 thee since I rec'* S. Barker's letter and the inclosed 
 printed papers, and I have despatched one to Henry 
 Jacksons. R. Harrison and his wife was hear yester- 
 day to see me, and desired to have their D" loves 
 and service to thee. 
 
 So with my own D' and tender love to my D" babe, 
 I take leave of thee and remaine thy AiFectionate 
 Mother 
 
 M. RODES. 
 
 Thy sisters remembers their love to thee, I be- 
 seech God Almighty to bless and keep and preserve 
 thee in thy jorny and ever more, so saith my soul. 
 My Love my Love farewell farewell. Adew. 
 
 I would have my Coat partly of this Colour, but 
 rather sader. My respects and kind love to S. 
 Mead and Cozen Moris . . . 
 
 Ffor John Gratton at 
 Charles Hartfords 
 in Bristoll 
 with speed 
 
 London, 1690. 
 My D'' Son,— I re'^ A letter from An. Gratton ^ this 
 week, to let me know thou went well and cheerfully 
 ' Wife of John Gratton. 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 19 
 
 away from her house that day when she write, and 
 she said, it was thy desire, I should send A letter to 
 Bristol, and direct it to her husband. It was very 
 well thou write from Monyash, for it gave me great 
 satisfaction. As for thy messenger A. AUin, he 
 fail'd both thee and me. He went thorrow the 
 town of the 2"*, but did not call at the Hall. 
 
 Friend Alice Harrison does recover, but continues 
 very weak. Her fitts left her the 6 day after thou 
 went — her sick fitts after sleep continues still, but 
 she is much better than thou left her, so that I have 
 strong hopes, she will live to Praise the Lord in the 
 land of living. . . . The night before thou went 
 thy journey, I was much cast down, but in the 
 Morning, I was very calm and quiet, and resigned 
 up into the will of my heavenly Father with all that 
 he had made me partaker of, and found meekness 
 and Peace in submitting, and resigning up, and 
 depending upon his Goodness. We have had a 
 very stormy week. The wether changed of the 
 first day at the Evening, and the next day was rain 
 all day, and since we have had snow and frost, and 
 likely to have A great deal more, for it keeps 
 snowing. But I hope, if it be such wether w'' thou 
 art, friends will not suffer thee to travile. Thomas 
 Buck sent A letter to S. Barker of A meeting being 
 appointed at this house of Shrove tusday, so called 
 next, and he intend to be here, but never mentioned 
 what friends they were, nor what Country they 
 came from, w'^*' I wondered at. Thou may tell 
 Thomas Pattison, his brother Robert set forth for 
 London the fourth day after he left, so, if he goe 
 to London, he will see how he sattels. . . . Thos. 
 
20 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Lawson ^ sent A letter to thee to prefer his servis to 
 teach thee Lattine and Greek, and instruct thee in 
 the product of Plants. It is A long letter. I think 
 of sending it w" I send thy shirts, and then thou 
 may write him an answer ; (he) gives direction how 
 to send to him. I bless my God, that strengthens 
 me and gives me firm hope and assurance that he 
 will bless thee and prosper thee, my D" babe, and 
 bring thee back to me in Perfect Helth w"*" is the fer- 
 vent prayer of thy tender and afFectionate Mother 
 
 M. RODES. 
 
 the 20th of 1 2th month 
 this being the 6th day 
 
 These 
 fFor John Rodes at Balber Hall. 
 
 Greatstrickland, i8 of mo. ii — 90. 
 My Friend, — Though unknown by face, yet 
 hearing severall months ago, that thou was tinctur'd 
 with inclination after the knowledge of plants, the 
 products of the earth, I am induc'd to write these 
 lines unto thee. Severall years I have been con- 
 cern'd in schooling, yet, as troubles attended me 
 for Nonconformity, I made it my business to 
 search most countries and corners of this land, with 
 severall of promonteries, islands, and peninsulas 
 thereof, in order to observe the variety of plants 
 there described or nondescripts, as also. Monu- 
 ments, Antiquities, Memorable things, whereby 
 I came to be acquainted with most of the Lovers of 
 
 ' Thomas Lawson, Quaker Botanist. Son of Sir Thomas and 
 Ruth Lawson. Was educated at Cambridge. Convinced by 
 George Fox, 1652, while holding the lucrative living of Rampside 
 in Lancashire. Died at Great Strickland, 1691, aged sixty-one. 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 21 
 
 Botany and of other rarities of the Royal Society 
 and others, in this Kingdom and other places. 
 
 Now some years ago, George fFox, William Pen, 
 and others were concerned to purchase a piece of 
 land near London for the use of a Garden School- 
 house and a dwelling-house for the Master, in 
 which garden, one or two or more of each sorte of 
 our English plants were to be planted, as also many 
 outlandish plants. My purpose was to write a book 
 on these in Latin, so as a boy had the description of 
 these in book-lessons, and their vertues, he might 
 see these growing in the garden, or plantation, to 
 gaine the knowledge of them ; but persecutions and 
 troubles obstructed the prosecution hereof, which 
 the Master of Christ's CoUedge in Cambridge 
 hearing of, told me was a noble and honourable 
 undertaking, and would fill the Nation with philoso- 
 phers. Adam and his posterity, if the primitive 
 originall station had been kept, had had no book to 
 mind, but God himself, the book of life, and the 
 book of the Creation, and they that grow up in the 
 knowledge of the Lord and of his Creation, they are 
 the true philosophers. Solomon wrote from the 
 Cedar of Lebanon to the hysop upon the wall ; the 
 works of the Lord, saith the holy man, are wonder- 
 ful, sought out by those that have pleasure therein, 
 his Work within and his Works without, even the 
 least of plants preaches forth the power and the 
 wisdom of the Creator, and, ey'd in the sparke of 
 eternity, humbles man. 
 
 Now, if thou have an inclination after these 
 things, and dost conclude the knowledge of them 
 usefuU, I could willingly abandon my employ of 
 
22 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 schooling here, and being with thee, lay out myselfe 
 for thy improvement in Latin, Greek, and hebrew ; 
 and for the knowledge of plants, and without any 
 great charge, could bring in 2 or 3 of the most parte 
 or of all the trees and shrubs and plants in England 
 into a plot of ground for that purpose prepared, 
 and many outlandish plants also. 
 
 And if thou would incline to the propagating of 
 wood, we might prepare a nourcery, where seeds 
 being sown, and young plants set to grow till fit to 
 be removed into other grounds— a work in no ways 
 dishonourable, but very usefuU and profitable. 
 
 I have not much more to write, but unfeignedly 
 to acquaint thee that want of employ or beneficial 
 place is not the primum mobile, as I may say, or 
 cause of my writing, for I have better ends, which, 
 if I were with thee, I could satisfy thee herein. 
 
 I purpose also, (if the Lord please,) to put forth 
 an Herbal specially of English plants. I am also 
 pretty forward with a piece I call Flosculi Brittannie, 
 given in Lat. a description of every county in 
 England, the principall products of each county, 
 why Cities, Towns, Rivers are called as they are 
 called, and of the Antiquities, monuments, memo- 
 rable occurrences, topical plants of each county, in 
 reading of which a scholar not only improves in 
 the language, but can give an account of the nation, 
 as if he had travel'd it through. 
 
 No more, but unfeign'd love to thee and to thy 
 Mother to whom I desire thee to shew this, and 
 T desire a few lines shortly from thee. Thy truly 
 Lo. fFrd, 
 
 Tho. Lawson. 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 23 
 
 If thou superscribe thy letter thus, there is no 
 doubt of its failing. 
 
 ffor Tho. Lawson att Greatstrickland 
 
 to be left with the Post master in Penrith 
 in Cumberland, to be deliver'd as 
 above directed. 
 Give this letter to the Northern Post. 
 
 My deare Mothers Letter 
 
 The 7 day of the 3* month. 
 My D" and Sincerely Beloved Son, — In the 
 blessed truth, I doe salute thee and in the arms 
 thereof I doe, as it were, Imbrace my tender Lamb, 
 wishing Grace, Mercy and Peace from God our 
 ifather and L*^ Jesus Christ to be multiplied and shed 
 abroad abundantly upon thee, my Pretious Babe 
 and most Esteemed Jewel the L'^ has blesst me with 
 as to this world. So my D"^ Child, I have sent thee 
 a small token of my love w° is the widows mite. 
 A few Genneys w*^ is all A poor woman had. If I 
 had more, thou should have had them. I have 
 sent thee a bill w" is to be paid thee upon sight, 
 thou may gitt Richard Smith to rec"^ it for thee. 
 I was at the meeting yesterday w^ I met with Jo. 
 Richardson's wife ; she is very much Enlarged in her 
 Declaration. Poor Alice Harrison has a Grudging 
 of her Distemper still, but I hope she will wear 
 it off in a littel time. This is the 5th letter I write 
 to thee, but never heard thou re*^ any of them, but 
 I am in hopes to hear this week, because I think 
 thou may be returned from thy Jorny. S. Barker 
 will take care to pay Ann Gratton that monyes thou 
 
24 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 write about. He intends to pay as soon as he can 
 gitt. I have sent thee a Piece of Bacon to see how 
 it is liked, as if it be lik'd I am heartilly willing to 
 send more, but I have heard thee Comend London 
 Bacon very much, made me Question whether it 
 would be worth sending, but I desire to let me 
 know how it is approved on, for if thou give me 
 Encouragem* it is accepted on, I will send more. 
 I am very sensable I am much indebted to Jacob 
 Camfield and his wife for their kind respects for 
 thee. The only time of sending Hony will be at 
 the latter End of the year — now it is too hot, w" 
 will cause it to work and so spoil it for eating. If 
 thou have a mind to present them, thou may do 
 it the latter end of Sumer, according to thy own 
 likeing for bigness. I wish the pot come safe 
 without breaking or working, but I am affraid off 
 both. I would have thee think on Josiah Kirby 
 for A place and send me word. So with my D' 
 and unfained love I salute thee once more ; thou 
 knows I love to doe it often of A day, w° thou art 
 within my reach ; it is some satisfaction to doe it 
 with my Pen, now I am deprived of that priviledge 
 of my lips, so I hope thou wilt pardon all my 
 weaknesses and fond Expressions w*^ proceeds from 
 pure love w"^ is very fervent to thee from thy Poor 
 Mother 
 
 M. RODES. 
 
 fFor Sir John Rodes. 
 
 The 2'' month 1691. 
 
 My D'' Child, — I re"^ thine by the Post by w"" 
 
 I understand, tom Bentley is gotten safe to London, 
 
 and I approve of that way to have him be upon 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 25 
 
 taking sometime before he be bound. I did intend 
 to put thee in mind of Joshua Kirby, for his mother 
 is very desirous to have him out, and it will be A 
 making to the boy, so I would have thee remember 
 to gitt A place for him upon such reasonable terms 
 as ten pound, and parents find him Cloths and pay 
 the monyes at twice. 
 
 I desire thee to gitt a hansome stuf sute and A 
 good wascote. Thou knows I did not like the last 
 stuf sute, therefore rem*"" and let it not be like that, 
 but something more refined and finer. I wish, that 
 riding coate of mine, the price I mean, had been 
 bestowed of Cloths for thee. As for me, its littel 
 matter what I wear. I cannot but take it kindly 
 thou took such care for me, and it is a Demonstra- 
 tion of thy Love to me — Yet I should have certainly 
 been satisfied of thy unfained Love to me, without 
 that chargable present. I cannot help confessing, 
 how sweet and pretious, and desirable and highly 
 valueable thy love to me is, more than the Gold of 
 Opher, and I hope nothing will be able to separate 
 or with draw thy affections from me, tho' formerly 
 I believe, thou may remember some People w"^ so 
 wicked, as they desired to see A breach betwixt us, 
 but their hopes is frustrated, as the hope of the 
 hipocrite will Perish, and come to nothing ; but the 
 just shall be Established and have an Everlasting 
 foundation w'^'' cannot be shaken by the blast and 
 breath of wicked men. So D' Babe, I comit thee 
 to the keeping and Protection of Him who alone 
 can keep thee and me in safety and Peace, so I hope 
 he will keep us in unity with his Good spirit and 
 that will keep us In Peace and love one with another 
 
26 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 w""" is the fervent and cordual desire of her that is 
 thy unfained affec. Mother in the blessed truth of 
 our God 
 
 M. RODES. 
 
 I have a mind to know if thou hast seen W. P. 
 So D"' Babe let nothing trouble thee, but still trust 
 and hope in God for their is safety in him both 
 night and day w" was an Expression of thy Dear 
 father's upon his death bed. I doe believe he 
 came to witness and Experience the sweetness of 
 trusting and depending upon the God of his sal- 
 vation and I am satisfied he is at rest in the L^. 
 
 This For 
 
 Sir John Rodes 
 
 at Hen Goldneys 
 
 in White Hart Court 
 
 in Grace Church Street 
 
 London. 
 1693. 
 
 The 12 of this instant. 
 
 D" Son, — I rec"^ thine Dated the 6 of this instant w" 
 
 was welcomly re'^ and embraced by me. I sh"^ A 
 
 write by the next post, but I waited for an answer 
 
 from Serlby ; for Tom Pattison went to see them. 
 
 Thy sister ^ hes not been very well ; she had A fitt 
 
 of an Ague, but thankes be to God, is very well 
 
 again, and looks very well, Tom ses, and intends 
 
 for Bal.^ shortly. I w** fain A had thee Com'^ first. 
 
 I re"^ the 2 barrels of Oysters and Disposed of them, 
 
 according to thy order. I took it very kindly, but 
 
 ^ Ann, afterwards wife of William Thornton. 
 ^ Barlborough. 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 27 
 
 thought it rather too much for thee to Give at this 
 time, because I know monyes is scarce with thee in 
 that Place ; Tho. I know thou art A Good husband, 
 yet monyes will run fast. I w'' have thee send to 
 inquire at the carriers for A little paper Bundle w*" 
 was sent by Samuel Loft ; thy silk wastcote was 
 lapt within it, and some letters. This weeke thy 
 Camlet Coat was sent up by widdow Dickison. Let 
 them enquire for them both. I sent my acknow- 
 ledgemts in that bundle to Henry Goldney, and I 
 doe really thinke myself very much obliged to them 
 for their kindness to thee, and Therefore, remember 
 my kind respects to them both, and let them know 
 I am very sensable of their love to thee, and thank- 
 full to them for it, and Desire they may have A 
 reward A hundred fold into their bosoms from the 
 almighty for their Labour of Love to thee ; for he 
 is the bountifull repayer of all Good turns Dun here 
 in the body, and he will recompence A cup of Cold 
 water. I desire thee to buy me 6 books of W. Pens 
 the fruits of Solitude. I w*^ have unbound for 
 Cheapness and 2 bound ; for I thinke them Ex- 
 cellent Pithy books, and may Do Good to be sent 
 abroad — in all eight. I am very well pleased that 
 thou Condescend to let me have libbertie to git Coals 
 in that Close ^ ; if it be no benefitt to me, yet it 
 Pleases me : I hope if I doe gitt Coals, it will not 
 Damage thee at all. These 2 last years, Theire 
 might have been A great many more sail'd both at 
 thy Pits and Beaton feild Pits, so, if I had to furnish 
 them, it w"^ A Dun the Country good and thee no 
 
 ^ Referring to certain ancient coal-pits near the house at Barl- 
 borough, now filled in and covered over. 
 
28 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 hurt. Time will show it, that I shall not be ongrate- 
 fuU to thee for thy favours and Condescention to 
 me. ... I can give thee no account of thy brother 
 Heathcote, for I have not seen, nor heard of him 
 Lately ; but I sent a letter to him lately for Herry. 
 Its like he may be with thee before this Paper reach 
 thee. So with saluation of my Endeared Love to 
 thee. My D"^ Sonn, I remain thine 
 
 M. RODES. 
 
 Robert Harrison hes his Ague fits Every 3"^ Day. 
 I desire thee to Let me know if thou hast red. wast- 
 coat and coat and w° thou thinkes of Coming home, 
 and how thou likes London in winter and also I 
 desire to know, if thou enjoys W. Pens Company 
 sometimes, and how he does and reme' my kind 
 respects to him. 
 
 I thought fit to inclose this letter that thou may 
 see how it is and w"^ abouts they intend to Pitch. 
 
 My dear Mothers Letter 
 
 The 2'' day of the 3'^ month. 
 My D" Child, — This is to satisfie thee, I re"^ thy 
 kind letts w" thou sent by An. Allin w" gave me 
 an account about the sattin. I thinke to have none 
 of that high rates. I heard by A. Allin, thou was 
 gone along with J. Gratton, but hopes thou may be 
 returned by this time. I write to thee by the post 
 and also by the Carrier 2 letters, but has not heard 
 from thee since, but I thinke the cause of my not 
 having A letter was thy absince fro London, w" might 
 hinder the receipt of mine. However, I desire thee 
 to write as soon as thou returns from thy jorny, for 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 29 
 
 I am not Easie in my mind, unless I heare from thee 
 often. Thy old Land-lady Mrs Wigfall ^ has been 
 hear this week to speak A good word for Robert 
 Barker, and tells us of his Kindness to thy sister 
 Ann, and he desires to know if I like of it. He is 
 now gon to London. I ask't what Portion he ex- 
 pected, and she s*^ £1^00, but I told her ;^I500 
 would be the most, and therefore desired her not to 
 encourage him to come, unless that Portion might 
 be acceptable to him. I told her it was A great 
 Portion out of this Estate and would be very difficult 
 to raise, considering the times. She s"^ he had maid 
 my brother aquainted with his design and he lik't of 
 him very well. If he likes of the Portion, he will 
 Proceed w° he Comes down from the term I sopose. 
 Mrs Wigfall Comends him Highly. If it be for her 
 good, I shall desire it may go forward, if that sum 
 will please him, not els, for I will not be engaged no 
 further. She pressed for ^2000 but I would not 
 condescend to a greater sum.^ A. AUin teld us how 
 well thou lookt. He teld us, thou came into some 
 place w"^ he was, and he thought thou had been some 
 rich Alderman. We talkt and laught with him, and 
 I was pleased to hear thou was so well. I perceive 
 Tho. Bently is like to stay with the Kalender,^ so I 
 desire thee to agree with R. Smith upon as easie 
 terms as thou canst for J. Kirby, for I thinke it 
 
 ^ Of Renisliaw Hall, Derbyshire. 
 
 2 Robert Barker evidently did not " like of the portion," for in 
 the next letter, probably written two years later, Ann is mentioned 
 as the wife of William Thornton. 
 
 ^ Calender or calenderer, one who calenders cloth. 
 " My good friend the Calender Will lend his horse to go." 
 
 ("John Gilpin.") 
 
30 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 would be amaking to the lad, w"* makes me very 
 desireous of it. The next week I thinke to send 
 some Bacon, having this opertunity of this conveniant 
 messenger J. Ludlom. I thort Good to give thee 
 the satisfaction of hearing and enquiring of thy 
 friends in the Country, so I ordered him to call at 
 Barnett. 
 
 Brother Heathcott is pritte Harty : he came 
 hither to night. I would have thee remember 
 Samuells Glasses, and send them, as soon as thou 
 can conveniantly. I have A mind to know w° thou 
 thinks of returning home ; it would be some satis- 
 faction to me to know, so with salutation of Endeared 
 Love to my D"' Babe whom the Lord hath made the 
 support and Joy of my life. . . . This from thy 
 Poor Mother 
 
 M. RoDES. 
 
 For S'' John Rodes att Henry 
 Goldney= House in White 
 Hart Court in Gracious Street 
 
 London. 
 
 May the 21, 1694. 
 
 D"* Son, — I hope thou art gotten safe and well 
 to thy friend H. Goldney, by this time. It has 
 pleased God to visit us in this family with trouble 
 about poor little Willy who is very weak and in 
 great Danger of being taken away from us in A 
 short time, and his mother is very Impatient ; I 
 know not what we shall doe with her. I wish 
 thou had been at home. While their is life, their 
 is hopes. We have had brother Heathcotes advice ; 
 but I doubt he fears him. We did not discern 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 31 
 
 him to decay before the latter end of the week 
 thou went to London. I have been very much 
 Exercised about the child, for I am very unwilling 
 it should Die here if I could help it ; but I know 
 its fitt I should submitt to the will of God in 
 this and in all other things — It is that w"^"^ brings 
 me peace in humble submitting and resigning my 
 will to the will of my heavenly father. I have 
 found, by good experience, the sweet of it to my 
 souls satisfaction and rest. I bless God, I am 
 in good health, as to my body — Tom was telling 
 me thou desired to know, because thou heard 
 me complaining of A pain in my shoulder, but 
 now, thanks be to God, it has left. But this poor 
 littel infant, I am much concerned about ; it puts 
 me so in mind of thy poor brother Gerards illness. 
 How I was exercised at that time w"^ I shall never 
 forgitt, at times, so long as I am in this earthly 
 tabernacle and house of Clay. Thy brother 
 Thornton does w' he can to comfort his wife ; 
 he ses it has brought him very weak for fear of 
 his wife. He ses he could part with A many 
 sons, if he had them, rather than his wife. He 
 will gitt up in the night to come to see how his 
 son does, to satisfie his wife. He is a very loving 
 and indulgent husband, as ever I see — She has 
 great cause to praise the Lord for his mercyes to 
 her. I desire thee to let me hear from thee, as 
 speedely as thou can ; and I think it might doe 
 well to write to thy sister to perswade her to be 
 content and sumitt to the will of God about her 
 Child. Alice Harrison bears her loss very well ; 
 she carries very discreetly, and I hope will doe 
 
32 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 very well ; She was at a meeting at the house 
 last 7 Day ; Here was Thomas Musgrave ^ and 
 Henry Batey. I was at Robert Harrisons funerall 
 and it rained all the way ; yet I got no Could, 
 I bless God for his mercyes to me at all times 
 and I pray God bless, preserve and keep thee in 
 health both in body and mind, w"" is the fervent 
 cry and breathing of my Soul to the God of 
 heaven. This is the earnest and dayly prayer of 
 thy most aifec. mother 
 
 M. RODES. 
 
 Ffor 
 
 Sir John Rodes 
 
 B. the 17 Instant 94. 
 
 My D"' Son,— I re"* thine Dated the 7th of 
 this Instant w""" brought great satisfaction to my 
 poor soul, because I did find thy Love richly 
 Demonstrated and made plain to me, w° I doe 
 vallue and prize at a very High rate. Next to 
 the Love of my God, I do desire it and thirst 
 after it and beg for it, if it be the will of my 
 heavenly father. He alone knows the sinceritie and 
 truth of my heart to thee, so, if he please to move 
 thy Heart with Pity and tenderness towards me, 
 he alone is worthy of the praise w" I desire to 
 give and ascribe to him, for to him it is due s* 
 my soul and that continually, for at any time, 
 if I have thought that thou hast been Possest of 
 hard thoughts ag^* me, I could have born it as 
 to my own perticuler, without lessening my affec- 
 tion, or having hard thoughts of thee, but my 
 ' See note, p. 132. 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 33 
 
 great Concern hes been for fear it sh^ hurt thee, 
 for my innoncencies and integritie and Dear affec: 
 to thee is known to the L* of life, and so I knew 
 him able and all sufficient to plead my Cause in 
 thy heart and in all Hearts. And so through 
 mercy I c*^ lay down my head in Peace and quietly 
 and Calmly and patiently bear and submitt to 
 the will of God, knowing that no affliction Comes 
 by Chance, and therefore it is our duty and our 
 happiness to bear them Patiently. ... I have just 
 now received A letter dated from Tunbridge w° 
 brought the good news of the waters agreing with 
 thee, w*^ I fervently desire they may work for 
 thy Good and all other things that thou takes in 
 hand, for I can truly say, the Comfort of my 
 life is bound up in thy life and well being, and 
 so I pray God be with thee and bless thee and 
 shine round thy tabernacle both night and day 
 and preserve thee and bring thee safe to thy Deare 
 Mother 
 
 M. RoDES. 
 
 The Doctor^ is sent for this Day to serlby, he 
 gott his Dinner here and so went to Serlby. Littel 
 Willie I hope does mend and in time may wear 
 it off, but it will not be suddenly. I hear the 
 great Lady Frechville^ is going to tunbridge, thou 
 wilt know her, tho' she, perhaps, may not know 
 — it is impossible she sh"*, unless she hear thy 
 name. ... As for the picture I thinke it will 
 be best to let it rest till I (have) more monyes. 
 
 1 Dr. Heathcote. 
 
 ^ Of Staveley Hall, near Chesterfield. 
 
34 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 I hardly thinke anybody will give so much for 
 it as 5 pounds, its like they heard A lady had 
 A mind of it w'' made them rise in their Price, 
 its like if they see we be indifferent they will fall 
 again. 
 
 For Sir John Rodes. 
 
 1694. 
 
 D" Son, — I received thine this instant, being the 
 6th of July, and am truly glad to hear of the con- 
 tinuance of thy health, and shall not be against thy 
 going a long with W. Pen, for I thincke it may be 
 advantage and improvement to thee ; for I am satis- 
 fied he is A very wise, prudent. Good man, and 
 hes large Experience both of spiritual and temporal 
 things. 
 
 This day the Docter is gon to Serlby to old Mrs. 
 Sanderson, being ill of A sore leg and her D**"" is 
 much affraid of her, and Therefore sent for the 
 Docter. He complains of the not writeing to him, 
 and I tell him its nothing but w* he deserves — he 
 being so remiss in that Point himself — He gives 
 us very littel encouragem' of Poor Willes recovery ; 
 but as to my own thoughts, I have some hopes 
 A live still, that he may wear it out in Gods Good 
 time. He is A poor, worn babe, but yet is very 
 pleasant sometimes, and will smile very prettely. 
 I am very desirous of his life, if it please God. 
 Honest J. Bancroft was here, and had a meeting 
 of the 3"^ day, being the 2^ of this month. I took 
 it as a very great kindness from him. W. Wrag 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 35 
 
 was here, and Tho: Samson, and severall from 
 Chesterfield. I bless God, we are all in Good 
 health, but the poor infant W. Thornton. Gilbert 
 is a brave lad. I shall write by Tho :, and so shall 
 Conclude with blessing, and praying for the beloved 
 son of 
 
 M. RoDES. 
 
 Ffor S"- John Rodes 
 
 at Moniash 
 This 
 
 31 of the 4. 
 
 My D" Child, — I was very much concerned 
 at the news Tom brought me of J. Grattons illness, 
 for I know, he would be A sore mist man, but 
 I have some hopes God will restore him to his 
 former health again, for I perceive by the latter 
 part of her letter his illness is much abated beyond 
 her Expectation. My D'^ Love is to them both, 
 and I desire the L'^ may support them under this 
 affliction that they may have cause to say it was 
 Good for them they w' afflicted. I hope thou 
 may find him in A very hopeful! way of recovery 
 and thou will come chearfully back with Thomas 
 to morrow, for I shall long very much to have thee 
 at home, because distemper is stirring very much, 
 and I am very apt to perplex myselfe with fears 
 of the worst. However, I desire, thou may come 
 home tomorrow, and I thinke I shall be willing 
 to let thee goe shortly again and Company may 
 be more acceptable to John w° he has a littel re- 
 covered his strength, for I cannot but thinke he 
 
36 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 is brought very weak with his violent vomitting 
 and Extream pain. I wish I had any thing to send 
 him that would doe him good. I have sent some 
 littel things which I know will not hurt him. This 
 tent wine may be good for him to take with a 
 bit of bread tosted and put in and so eat the bread. 
 If he can gitt it down, it will strengthen his stomack 
 A littel and revive his spirits, if his vomitting 
 and pain have left him. I canot be well satisfied, 
 unless thou come home. Therefore, satisfie my 
 desires at this time, and I shall be willing to 
 condescend and comply with thee another time in 
 as great a matter. So committing thee to the mighty 
 mercifuU and powerfull God Almighty who is 
 able to keep thee and preserve thee at all times 
 and in all places from dangers and distresses, both 
 within and without, so D"" Lamb I am thy tender 
 and affectionate Mother 
 
 M. RODES. 
 
 For Sir John Rodes. 
 
 Feb. 19th. 
 My D'' Son, — I write last week about the Chariot 
 lyning that I desired to have it Blue. I hope it will 
 come to thy hands. This is to acquaint thee that I 
 am to have seven p"* of Jerimiah Ash, — it is his sister 
 Marys money, and she has a Desire to have it Down, 
 and so was pleased to let me have it, paying her so 
 much here ; so I w"* have thee order Cornelius ^ to 
 goe for it, and he is to pay it upon sight of her letter 
 '■ Cornelius Cade, Sir John's servant. 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 37 
 
 — £^ is to be for the Coach, and the other fourty is 
 to come out of Derbyshire — The Messenger is not 
 returned back, so I canot tell the time of pament. I 
 have been thinking several times of asking thy advice 
 about Nephew Hussey, concerning making him A 
 small present of A guinye, if thou think it may be 
 acceptable to him. Thou knows his temper better 
 than I. If he be a proud man, I know he w'^ scorn 
 such a small matter, but I leave it to thy discretion to 
 doe as thou sees Cause : So there is forty shillings 
 remains of the seven p*^, w*^ is, one guiny to Cozen 
 Hussey, if thou think fitt, and the remainder is for 
 some od thing for myself. I desired some orringes 
 and lemons of Cornelius in my last w° I w^ have thee 
 give him mony out of this, and also I desire A pound 
 of CofFe and 2 paire of Gloves, one coloured, the 
 other white ; the coloured I would have stitched 
 with black, and a quire or 2 of Gilded paper. I 
 heard of thy coming this way with thy Uncle, w° is 
 very pleasing to me. Mrs Shower told the Coach- 
 man that her husband write her word that S"^ John 
 Rodes and Mr Thornton came all down together of 
 tusday come senit. Thy sister has none of her new 
 alterations finished, but is all in disorder. How her 
 uncle will approve of it, I know not, nor she neither 
 — I am in thoughts about the Chariot gitting down. 
 I once thought of thy coming in it, but I think thou 
 art otherways resolved. I was thinking, if thou hired 
 A Coachman and Horses, and so thy Uncle and thee 
 ride down in it and Patryark. But I shall leave to 
 thee to Contrive how it must be. If thou do not 
 come in it, it may be as well to let it alone, and send 
 for it after thou art come down, and so let me help 
 
38 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 to contrive about it — I would have thee visit the 
 Duke of Leeds ^ before thou leave the town, I would 
 have thy friendship keept, because he may, and it 
 is in his power to doe thee a kindness, if he hath but 
 a Heart to doe it. I desire thee to write once again 
 before thou come to let me know the certain time 
 of thy coming, w'' will be very acceptable news to 
 thy truly affectionate Mother 
 
 M. RODES. 
 
 For 
 
 Sf John Rodes att 
 Dockter Heathcotes house 
 
 in Lincolns in fields 
 London. 
 
 May the lo (1712). 
 
 D" Son, — Yesterday I re"^ the good news of thy safe 
 arrival in Lincolns inn feilds, w" I was glad of, and 
 also that thou lik'd the situation of the place, and 
 that the air agrees with thee better than thou did 
 expect, so that I hope thou will stay with Ease and 
 satisfaction to thy self and also to thy sisters. I am 
 sure it would have been great trouble to thy sister 
 Heathcote, if thou had not lodg'^ at her house, so I 
 hope all sides will be easie . . . for I much desire 
 that Peace and love may Dwell amongst you and 
 remain with you for ever. 
 
 I hope this Tutour will please all sides. I long to 
 hear that he is Entertained and approved on by his 
 Mother, and admitted into his place of Govern' to 
 her son, and that he may be tractable and willing to 
 
 ' Sir Thomas Osborne, ist duke of Leeds (1631-1712). 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 39 
 
 learn, w° will be for his future good, and will please 
 all his good friends, as Mo: Grandmother, Uncle 
 and Aunt. I am sure it w'^ revive my spirits to hear 
 that thy nephew Will does settle to his book, w" w*^ 
 keep him out of bad company, so he would be A 
 comfort to all his relations, and A happiness to him- 
 self. I desire much to hear from thee, therefore doe 
 not fail to gratifie the request of thy Affectionate 
 Mother 
 
 M. RoDES. 
 
 My pen and ink is bad, but yet I ventered to 
 write in hopes it w"* bring A letter from thee my 
 D' Son. 
 
 Ffor 
 
 S"^ John Rodes at Docter 
 Heathcotes house in 
 
 Lincoln-Inns fields 
 London. 
 
 May the 17 (1712). 
 
 D"' Son, — I re'^ thy letter dated the 13 of this 
 instant w'' was very welcome, as thine is always to 
 me, it came unexpected for I did not think of A 
 letter the last post, because thou could not re** 
 mine. 
 
 I am glad thou hes prevail'd with Wille to go to 
 school with Cornelius. I wish thou could also per- 
 swade him to learn Lattin and french with him, 
 for I dispair of his Mother gitting him A Tutour. 
 I desire to know if this be the man W" Penn 
 
40 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 recommended for A Tutour to thy sister. I am 
 glad to hear the Docter is so very obligeing to you 
 all, and that there is such A good agreement 
 amongs you, for Peace is very pleasant in a private 
 family as in the Publick. I wish this news be true 
 of the Queens Declareing the Peace w'^ will be very 
 acceptable to all good People. Michael Milner was 
 to see me this week and desired to have his kind 
 love remembered to thee. He came before Dinner, 
 and that same day, Mr Turner and his wife came 
 to inquire of thy Health and seemed to be glad 
 to hear that thou gott well to London. S. Barker 
 write to thee to give thee an account how the work 
 went on. He hes been very ill of his Distemper, 
 since thou went, had a very sore day yesterday of 
 his pain. He thought worse than ever he had. 
 He hes tryed Coalback^ his medicen, but finds no 
 good but rather worse. He writes he w"* have come 
 up to London to be serched whether it be the stone 
 or an ulcer ; he concludes it is one of them Dis- 
 temper, or both, but S. B. he does not approve 
 of that method, but is willing to wait upon God to 
 order and dispose of him as he pleases and is very 
 thankfuU to God Almighty that he gives him so 
 much time to prepare for his last day. 
 
 The sail for Coals is but slack as yet ; they will 
 observe thy orders about the monys returning. 
 
 I write to thee ab' J. Kirby in S. Barkers letter 
 and I desire to know what is done. We hear he 
 his goten A protection " so I hope this ten p^ may be 
 
 1 See note, p. 167. 
 
 2 " Protection," i.e. a writ by which persons were formerly 
 " protected " or saved from arrest. 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 41 
 
 saved for better uses — If thou be not at leasure to 
 write, order thy sister to write to me. 
 
 So with D" love to thee and thy sisters with 
 prayers for your Healths this from Your truely 
 affectionate 
 
 Mother. 
 
 My kind love to W"" and George and Mat and 
 Cornelius. 
 
 Ffor 
 
 Sir John Rodes at Docter Heathcotes 
 house in Lincolns inn-field 
 
 near Holbourne row 
 London. 
 
 May the 8th (1713). 
 
 D" Son, — I have been several weeks in expectation 
 of seeing thee at home, w'= prevented me f"" writing, 
 but now it seems to me as though thou was unre- 
 solved of the time w". Thomas Aldam ^ was here 
 today, and he perswades me that thou willt stay the 
 yearly meeting. He s"^, he thought to have found 
 thee at home. He had been at a funeral at 
 Mansfield, and gott hether before Diner, and so 
 gott his Diner. He left that after noon. I could 
 not prevail with him to stay. He ses he hes been 
 very lame all winter, not able to help himself, nor 
 could not feed himself I told him we did not 
 hear he was so very ill. 
 
 » A prominent Yorkshire Quaker, living at Warmsworth. 
 
42 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 I am glad to hear George Thornton is well 
 placed to his own satisfaction, and that he likes the 
 imploym w"" will make his apprentiship pass on 
 very easily. I hope now thou has seen that work 
 accomplished, of G. T. being settled, thou willt make 
 hast home, for I want thee very much ; yet I am 
 loath to press thee very much, because I know thou 
 hes more Diversion and pleasure, than thou wilt 
 meet with here at Barlbrough. Mallo Barnard is 
 very ill. I am affraid of A fever. She began with a 
 Cold fitt, but after was violent hot ; but w' it will 
 be, I know not as yet — It will be a great trouble to 
 her Mo: — The workmen hes not begun of the 
 stairs, I, expecting thy coming within a few days, 
 thought it better to defer it, till thou came and then 
 thou might have it done according to thy own 
 mind ; and thou also concluded thy letter to J. 
 Hallum that they might be finishing the Chamber 
 till thou came, w"^ made me more bold to determine 
 the letting the stairs alone till thou come, w"^ I hope 
 will not be long. It will be no prejudice to the 
 work, nor the workmen, for J. Hallum saith the 
 wood will be in better order for working, being it 
 is dry wether. If I have done amiss in putting a 
 stoping to the work, I hope thou wilt pardon me, 
 for my design was good. S. Barker presents his 
 kind love and service to thee. His distemper 
 Increases upon him very much ; his pain Is more 
 violent and sharp than it was and continues very 
 painful ; his condition is very deploreable ; he does 
 bear it very pateintly, and seems to be very much 
 resigned to the will of God to dispose of him, as he 
 pleases, to be content. I desire, we may be fitted 
 
LETTERS OF MARTHA RODES 
 
 43 
 
 and prepared for our great change w*^ will certainly 
 come sooner or later. 
 
 My time cannot be long by course of nature. 
 So desiring thou willt remember me in thy prayers, 
 who am, thy tenderly affectionate Mother 
 
 M. RODES.^ 
 
 I desire thee to send J. Mager to Mary Bentley 
 to bespeak 6"^ of Chocolate of Godfre Langford w= 
 she use to buy. I w'^ have it fresh and new made. 
 M. Barnard is better this morning, so I hope she 
 will do well. My respects to Mr Caswell, not for- 
 getting his pupil. 
 
 If thou be not disposed to write, order thy sisters 
 to write, for it is the greatest satisfaction, I have in 
 thy absence to hear of thy Health — The sail for 
 Coals is quick this week. 
 
 '■ Lady Rodes died shortly after this letter was written, and was 
 buried within the Ahar rails in the Parish Church, Barlborough. 
 
LETTERS OF HENRY GOULDNEY 
 
 1690 — 1725 
 
Ffor Sr. John Roades 
 
 at Balber Hall. 
 To be left at Timothy Garlands 
 at the Green Draggon 
 In Mansfeild 
 
 near Nottingham. 
 
 London the 22nd — 1690. 
 mo 
 
 Sr. Jn. Roades, — Esteemed fFrd, I reed thine by 
 which I perceive the eldest lad is not to come, and 
 that the youngest is intended ; I spoake to the ffrd 
 abt it, and he seems inclinable to make tryall of him, 
 and if he can be spared, the sooner the better, for 
 he wants a Lad. To me the boy seemd hardy, and 
 if he is, twill be better ; but, for the first year or 
 two, his service will not be hard. As to the 10 
 pounds, if he likes him to stay for the one halfe 3 
 years, he will not be against, though tis Customary 
 to have it downe — I desire thee send word whether 
 he can come in a little time or no, that he may 
 know what to depend upon — ffriends are now soli- 
 siting the Parliament abt getting our affirmation ^ 
 instead of an Oath, and we are in grate hopes it 
 will go throw the house of Lords, it haveing 
 passed them once — There is a bill in the Commons 
 against Clandestine Marriages wch. is good in itself, 
 but will be prejudicial to ifrds, unless we can 
 obtaine a Clause to toUarate our marriages wch. we 
 
 Passed it 
 
 47 
 
48 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 have some hopes of, or else that the bill will not 
 pass ; but I hope twill pass wth. a proviso for us. 
 
 If neither, we shall be greatly sufferers. The 
 Conventicle ^ Act was a favourable one to this bill, 
 for it obligeis all to come to the Priest for marriage, 
 and all others declared voyd. 
 
 I have no more, but my Dear Love to thee, the 
 Lady and thy Sisters and to Thos. Aldam wn. thus 
 sees him — I am thy reall ffriend 
 
 Henry Gouldney.^ 
 
 My wifes Dear Love is to thee. My love also 
 to S. Barker. 
 
 Ffor 
 Sir John Roads 
 
 at Balber Hall. 
 To be left at Timothy Garlands 
 at the Green Dragon 
 In Mansfeild 
 
 near Nottingham. 
 
 London the loth of the — 1690. 
 mo 
 
 Sir John Roads, — Dear ffriend, Thine I have 
 reed, and perceive thou or the lads ffrds inclinds 
 that he should stay till the spring, for that he is 
 
 ^ Conventicles — private assemblies for religious worship. The 
 name was particularly applied to those which differed in form and 
 doctrine from the Established Church. 
 
 2 Henry Gouldney, Merchant, of White Hart Court, Grace- 
 church Street (sometimes called Gracious Street), London. He 
 was not " a man of letters," Uke William Penn and John Tomkins 
 and the handwriting and style (to say nothing of the spelling) of 
 some of his epistles are best described in his own words " 'twas 
 ruff as it ran." 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 49 
 
 learning to write ; (tis pitty he cannot do it alreadie) 
 for his intended Mr. now wants him or another, 
 and although writeing is a good Qualification to any 
 one, yet in this way, tis but little wanted, but that 
 he may make an entrance. He is willing to stay 
 abt. 6 weeks or 2 months at farthest. Although he 
 cannot be an artist in that time, yet he may learne 
 so much that wth. his industry at leasure times, he 
 may mend his hand ; and for thy sake, I would not 
 have his Mr. take another : first, because, to come 
 after, he must be under the other all along — Give 
 me thy mind first. ... As to our ifriend W. P.,^ 
 he was fully cleard without any objection the last 
 term — I shewd him thine, and his dear love is to 
 thee and thy Mother — The bill abt. Clandestine 
 Marriages is quite throwne out ; those that ware 
 our ffi-ds, in being willing to make a Proviso for us, 
 not being able to carry it in the house in favour to 
 us, joynd wth. them that ware against the whole bill 
 and so threw it quite out, that now we are as we 
 
 ware 
 
 "We have another matter depending, and it has 
 passed the Lords ; that is, to be excused from 
 Oaths ; it is now waiting a convenient season for 
 the Commons ; but some ffrds are dissatisfied wth. 
 the manner of wording of our Declaration, that we 
 may not be desceived that by the pretence of ex- 
 cusing us from the Common forme, we may go 
 into a new one, more invocating and impricating, 
 wch. many concludes amounts to an Oath, or how- 
 ever, beyond the Command of Christ that says : 
 What is more than yea yea or nay nay comes of 
 
 ^ William Penn. 
 
 D 
 
so A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 evill in Temporall Concernes ; in spiritualls it difFers 
 — and as near as I can remember tis in the Ceri- 
 money of being uncovered ; and the title of the 
 Act. runs : that Whereas we scruple the forme of 
 swearing now used wch. implyes that they account 
 this but another forme for the same thing, many 
 stumbles at it and none hartily likes it, yet some 
 is for accepting of it so — If thou should quickly se 
 T. Aldam, thou may shew him the forme to se if 
 he approves of it. My dear love to him and should 
 be glad to se him hear againe as also Jn. Gratton — 
 for my part, I am affraide the world will repraoch us 
 if we should comply of swearings, and so lessen our 
 testimony against it ; but to have our words simply 
 taken, wth. an equall punishment for the fallsiefieing 
 our words wth. perjury, would be a great advantage 
 to our bussieness in trade and I should be glad of 
 it. I am with Kinde Love to thy Selfe & Mother 
 thy reall ffrd. 
 
 Heny. Gouldney. 
 
 The forme runs thus 
 
 I, A. B. do in the presence of God sincerely and 
 solemnly declare that I will true answer make in 
 the present case, and I speake the truth, the whole 
 truth and nothing but the truth, and I call God to 
 witness and appeal to him as Judge of the truth 
 of what I shall say. 
 
 To be said bare headed. 
 
 Some learned of the world hearing it already, 
 says tis an oath. I am apt to think ffi-ds. will be 
 troubled to answer the many oppositions we may 
 meet wth. by Professors upon it ; but I am apt to 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 51 
 
 think that the Park, will be put of before tis don, 
 the King^ intending suddenly for Holland. 
 
 Henry Gouldney to Sir J. Rodes 
 
 To Timothy Garland at the Green Draggon 
 In Mansfeild 
 
 near Nottingham 
 For Sr. John Roads at Balbar Hall. 
 
 London the 15th of the — i6go. 
 mo 
 
 Sr. John Roades, 
 
 Dear Friend, — I have received thine in answer 
 to my former, and have acquainted my Friend with 
 its Contents about the Lad. He sayes he shall want 
 him before and desiers he may come 2 weeks sooner 
 at least ; but if it cannot be, I will get him to stay, 
 yet he urges it pretty much : 
 
 I am glad thou art like to accompany John Gratton, 
 whose Company will be acceptable here. I have 
 now a matter of greife to acquainte thee with, I call 
 it so because 'twill bring an exercise upon the whole 
 church of God ; 'tis no less then the Loss of our 
 Dear and honourable Friend and eminent Father G. 
 Fox.'^ He came to my house last 7th day night not 
 very well. His concerne was to be at meeting with 
 us the next day, and was thare and was largely 
 carried forth and spoake harty. So soone as he came 
 out, betwixt the meeting and our house, he felt the 
 
 1 William III. 
 
 ^ G. Fox, born 1624, at Drayton, Leicestershire. Founder of the 
 " Society of Friends," nick-named " Quakers" in 1650. 
 
52 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Cold to seize him inwardly, yet seemed IndifFerent 
 well, till towards night. Then he was taken very 
 ill, and so continued till last 3d. night near loth 
 houer and then quietly departed without any groan 
 or strugling. Many Friends came to vissit him, but 
 for the most part, twas hard for him to speake, and 
 not easily understood ; but severall times said the 
 Lords Power was Over all. And he had a Concerne 
 in his illness for the universall good of Friends in all 
 parts and Countreys. Tis indeed Comfortable to 
 behold the Concerne Friends are generally in for his 
 absence from us, and how the Antient Friends 
 mournes like little Children when in the waight 
 of the sence of his service and Apostleship among 
 them ; which desiers that the Lord would make up 
 his loss by largly powering Forth of his spirit upon 
 such as are yet behinde. Indeed he was a Worthy 
 Champion in his day, and lived to see a large increase 
 of the spreading of that Gospell, that in these latter 
 dayes was First plentifully mannifested to, and then 
 faithfully declared by him ; But now he is gon and 
 at rest from his Labours and has the reward of Joy 
 and Comfort for his suffering and exercises here — • 
 no more at present but mine and my wifes dear love 
 to thee and thy Mother also to T. A. and J. G.' 
 when thou see them ; I am thy affectionate Friend 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 W. P. was out of towne most part of his illness, he 
 askd after him several times and desierd to see him • 
 J. W" came that afternoone I staid much with him. 
 
 * Thomas Aldam and John Giatton. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 
 
 53 
 
 Ffor Sir John Roades 
 
 at Balber Hall. 
 To be left at Joseph Storrs Woolendraper 
 
 In Chesterfeild Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 5th of -^ 93. 
 ^ mo 
 
 Dear Sr. John Roades, — I reed, thine wth. the 
 inclosed to our fFrd.^ wch. I forwarded to him, being 
 out of towne, and his dear wife indisposed greatly 
 by a relaps, but I hope, now somewhat mending — 
 Yesterday I had a letter from him abt. the bussieness, 
 and gave me a letter to a fird of his on thy behalfe. 
 I carried it to the other end of the towne where he 
 dwells. He told me he would do his best, and ap- 
 pointed me to come againe this night. I accordingly 
 did, who tells me that he spoake wth. one that have 
 so great an interest wth. the secretary, that he dont at 
 all question to obtaine thy request, saying 'tis con- 
 trary to the act of InduUgence ; and that wn. the 
 King comes, if he is reminded, he will be sure to do 
 it, and that he have knowne the like thing don lately : 
 I replied, perhaps to stay till he came might be too 
 late, but we ware both ignorant of the time the 
 Councill fixeth upon. The high SherrifFs being 
 late, I could not be informed, but I shall endeavour 
 to morrow, and if I se a nessessity I think to goe 
 againe, the person not questioning doeing it although 
 in the Kings absence. I have given thee the sub- 
 stance of wt. past, wch. was willing to doe rather than 
 » W. Penn. 
 
54 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 thou should waite to here from our fFrd that might 
 not come untill another post or two — I know thou 
 have great relations that may be capeable of lending 
 a lift in this case. I would not have thee to loose any 
 interest that may help thee by depending upon this 
 way, because I know Court fFriendships are not 
 always certaine, though this seems feasible — 
 
 I am, with Dear Love to thee, and thy mother, thy 
 reall fFrd. 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 If thou have anything further to communicate, let 
 me have it. 
 
 Ffor Sir John Roades 
 
 at Balber Hall. 
 To be left with 
 Joseph Storr 
 In Chesterffeild 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 24th — 1693. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffrd, — The hearing of thy wellfare was but 
 greatly acceptable to me, and this of thy saffe arrival, 
 and meeting thy relations well to all your satisfaction, 
 after so much and dear ffriendship between us cannot 
 but be good news to me. 
 
 The mallanchollyst pt is the absence of thy Com- 
 pany than whome no one has been more wellcome to 
 us both, and to take of obligation, thou tooke care to 
 prevent by thy gennerous present, wch in my invita- 
 tion had no share of the inducement — twas thy Civil- 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 55 
 
 lity, and so I take it — I observe wt thou writes abt. 
 the Doctor's^ Mother. Tis a branch that springs 
 from the old root of envy, a true Charracteristick of 
 that malicious tribe who had (was the Choice their 
 own) rather hang up ten quakers than sacrifice one 
 liffe of their owne. Although in her rage she may 
 talke of its being her death, let her vent her mallice 
 against thee as shee please : if so to do is vile, I 
 hope (wch. reverence), be it spoken the Lord will yet 
 make thee more so. I hope for thy pore Brother 
 that he will continue in the constancey of his affec- 
 tions to truth, and not be scared with the prejudiced 
 threats of his relations, though in their blinde zeals, 
 they may thincke they are in the right, that wch. pro- 
 ceeds from that evill root is not of God, and they 
 themselves will one day finde the loade of it — I am 
 now to acquaint thee that this day after long weak- 
 ness, came the news of the Decease of our dear ffrd 
 W. P.'s wife ; " a man of many sorrows, indeed, for 
 as he is natturally of a most affectionate temper, so, 
 when a great object of that affection is removed, it 
 cannot but have a deep impreshion upon so sensible 
 a minde. She was a virtuous woman, had a noble 
 regard to truth, wch. wth. the advantage of a temper 
 not easily moved to extreams, she have for a long 
 time borne up above the ffrightfuU apprehensions 
 of the many dangers her dear husband has under- 
 gone ; and although the Lord has been by an im- 
 mediate hand, his strength and support under them 
 all, her constancy and undauntedness, doubtless, have 
 all along added to his — wch. I hope by a double por- 
 
 1 Dr. Gilbert Heathcote. 
 
 "^ Gulielma Springett, married 1672. 
 
S6 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 tion, will be handed to him, if more exercise should 
 be his lott, Yet I would hope that since he have had so 
 great a share, the measure of his afflictions are now 
 almost full, that in this world he may enjoy an out- 
 ward portion of rest. 'Tis my harty desiers to the 
 Lord for him, if God in his wisdome se it best. I 
 am, dear fFrd with mine and my wifes dear love to 
 thee and thy Dear Mother also to thy Brother 
 Heathcote, &c. ffrom thy affectionate ffird. 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 . . . Jno. Gratton writes to Thos: ffeild of a 
 Child near thee being borne with a top knot. fF. 
 seems inclinable to print it. Is the fact true or 
 not ? 
 
 Ffor Sr. John Roades 
 
 at Balber Hall. 
 To be left with Joseph Storr 
 
 In Chesterfeild 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 27th of the — 94. 
 
 mo 
 
 Sr. J. R., — Dear ffriend, twas last night that I 
 considered, I was a letter in thy debt, wch ommi- 
 shion seized wth weight upon me. I do redeeme 
 it the best I could. I fully intended a speedy 
 returne — I have consulted W. P.'s ffrench man abt. 
 getting one of his countrey men to be thy servant ; 
 he has made inquiry and heard of one or two, 
 but I thinck neither of them have the latting 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 57 
 
 tongue. They want to know what they must have 
 for wages. Upon the whole I conclude it best that 
 nothing be don, till thou come up to the yearly 
 meeting, at wch. time I expect thee, and to be free 
 wth. thee, I cannot tell how to thinck thou should 
 lodge from my house, tho for abt. 3 weeks, it will, 
 I conclude, be a hurrey ; after that I shall be more 
 free, so if thou willt bare wth. the inconveniency, 
 thou may asure thy selfe to be wellcome to a Land- 
 lord that has an intire affection for thee, and I 
 am sure my wife has also — She is now in Bucking- 
 hamshire, and intends to stay 3 weekes — I have 
 little to give thee account of ; the most consider- 
 able is G. K.'s^ being here — He is not a man 
 governed wth. that meekeness that becomes his 
 Doctrine who puts a great value upon the out- 
 ward comeing of our Blessed Lord ; wch. I hope 
 all honnest ffrds. finds it their duty to doe ; yet 
 himselfe far from makeing him a lively example 
 in meekness and humility — •ffrds. have had many 
 private meetings wth. him, and by them all, I don't 
 finde great hopes of his comeing more near us in 
 spirit. His doctrines, in the generall, are I think 
 owned by all sound ffriends, but he seemes to lay 
 downe abt. 7 points wch. he calls fudimentalls, in any 
 of whome, if we disagree in, he cannot hold ffellow- 
 ship, tho upon the whole, was not his spirit wrong, 
 
 ^ George Keith (1639-1716) adopted the tenets of the Quakers ; 
 settled in Philadelphia as a schoolmaster in 1689. Returned 
 to London 1694, was disowned by the Quakers for preaching 
 heresy. Obtained a meeting-house of his own at Turner's Hall, 
 Philpot Lane, Fenchurch Street ; joined the Established Church 
 in 1700, and returned to America as one of the first missionaries of 
 the S.P.G. 
 
58 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 that would easily be accommodated — He takes 
 commonly large time in meetings, but mostly fflat ; 
 he has a tone sometimes, especially wn. on one of 
 his pticular points that he huggs more than ordinery, 
 that he carrys ojff more lively — My accnt. is in grosse, 
 tis to large and beyond my memmorey to pticularize 
 — I hope it will have one good effect, viz. the more 
 uniteing W. P. and G. W.^ who chieffly manages 
 him — the other fFrds. that came from Pensilvania 
 appear far the better spirited. Men come in unity 
 of ffrds there, and is so reed, here ; yet some caution 
 upon them that G. K. might not take occation to 
 accot. ffriends partiall — He speaks of appealing to 
 the yearly meeting and will submitt to their judge- 
 ment so far as it agrees wth. his, and not other- 
 wise — 
 
 I hope thy Brother, by the controversey that 
 may happen, will receive no hurt. I think tis liffe 
 and not arguments by wch. he was begotten, that 
 so there is less danger. Thou may somewhat 
 prepare him in the Interrim.^ — • 
 
 Our ffrd. is of late pretty much among us — 
 never a bad spirit dares to open at him ; he has 
 his post and that is at the helme ; he is an able 
 Physitian (under God) and his meddicines is chiefly 
 Simpytheticall Balsome. He is not for wranckling 
 the wound, but powering in of oyle — 
 
 I hope Jno Gratton will finde his way hither 
 at that needful! time — I am with my Cordiall love 
 and respects to thee, thy affectionate ffrd. 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 ' George Whitehead. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 59 
 
 the ist -^ 
 
 mo 
 
 The above was wrote last post, but a fire 
 happening that evening, tooke up my thoughts, 
 that till too late, I forgot to send it — It burnt 
 a great hall and abt. 2 or 3 houses. 
 
 For 
 Sr. John Rodes at Bloxam. 
 
 To be left at Henry Pickworths 
 In Sleeford 
 Lincollnshire. 
 
 London the 6th of — 04. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — That I am in fault I shall 
 reddily acknowlidge ; but my ommishion has not 
 been my forgetfuUness, but cheifly a want of know- 
 ing where to send. But to-day I met wth. Anthony 
 from whome I had direction. If this honest excuse 
 may be creddited, I question not forgiveness, but 
 I presume upon thee the more, knowing I have 
 been an old offender, and to thy kindeness be 
 it spoaken, thou hast often forgave. I have now 
 an acknowlidgement to make for thy kind toaken 
 and no better reason I can give for doing it now 
 than the Common that ; tis better late than never ; 
 all wch. excuse, it have not been without my 
 thoughts, for there thou art my dayly companion, 
 but tis often under a sort of affliction wn. I con- 
 sider wt. we hoped for in our western proggress, 
 and misst it and that now they injoy what we 
 desierd for and could not ; What, is the Countrey 
 to be even wth. thee, because thou would not hon- 
 
6o A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 nour it, but then, why should I be a shearer in 
 the revenge since I was no cause of the disappoint- 
 ment. Chew upon that — 
 
 But to be serious, let me tell thee that BrisstoU 
 was scarcely ever so vissited and the fFrd.^ never 
 better reed. I dont envy their felicity, though am 
 sorry I was not an immeadiate ptaker, yet for their 
 sakes, I reioice. Twas supposed that severall times 
 they had abt. 4000 at a meeting there, and psons 
 of great account generally satisfied. He had abt. 
 a doz: meetings in that City, and went abt. to 
 the adjacent pts. In one place they gave up their 
 towne hall, at another the market house. He is 
 going for Exiter. On the way he have had great 
 meetings, I am now in haste, shall conclude wth. 
 dear love wth. my wifes also. H. G. 
 
 I forgot to tell thee B. Coole ^ and R. V.^ are 
 his compannions from BristoU. John Everard was 
 with him most of his time there whome I accom- 
 panyed at 4 or 5 meetings on the Road — Our 
 ffrd. J. Tompkins is so ingaged wth. his spouse that 
 his evenings are spent in amours, modestly but 
 fondly psueing it ; has been at their monthly meet- 
 ing yesterday I suppose — I saw his two severall 
 epistles. Be sure keep them ; one time or other 
 they may deserve a further publication. I was 
 greatly effected at the reading ; he is a deep 
 
 1 W. Penn. 
 
 ^ Benjamin Coole of Wiltshire, afterwards of Bristol, preacher 
 and writer, died 1717. 
 
 ' Probably Richard Vickeris of Bristol, preacher. The only 
 Quaker sentenced to death in England on account of religion. 
 Liberated by the influence of the Duke of York. Died 1700. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 6i 
 
 man ; it may be said of him, as W. P.'s pre- 
 face speaks of G. ff. ^ in a degree that part next 
 the world is &c. . . . though he is notable there 
 too. 
 
 Sam Jennings went downe to Gravesend 3rd 
 day : T. AUwood has prepared an answer to 
 G. K.'s reply not quite printed. 
 
 Ffor 
 Sir John Rodes 
 
 at Balber Hall. 
 To be left at 
 Joseph Storr 
 In Chesterfeild 
 Derbyshire. 
 
 London the 12th of -5- 95. 
 mo 
 
 My dear Ffriend, — I lately rec"^ thy noble pre- 
 sent p. the hand of J. T.^ ; wch was so well pre- 
 pared and seasond, that tis my wifes oppinnion, 
 that she never eat better. Neither did we eate 
 it alone, for others partooke of it. Such a good 
 thing, and to come from so good a ffriend, has a 
 reception in our mindes beyond wt. I shall now 
 illustrate : — 
 
 Tis now so long since thou wrote to me, that had 
 not this gave me to believe the Contrary, a jellousey 
 might have got in that I was out of thy minde. I 
 am apt to thincke that a multitude of bussieness does 
 not clog thee : Let not therefore thy retirement 
 give thee too many ruminating thoughts, for if they 
 are too much indulged, it may have too great an 
 ^ G. Fox. " John Tomkins. 
 
62 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 influence on thy minde. Be wt. thou canst in the 
 practise of such things that may tend to thy eddi- 
 fication and diversion. Conversation rightly coupled 
 gfives a man great ease and satisfaction — I am not 
 for thy keeping too much at home — Can thou do 
 less than goe to the Marriage of thy old fFriend ? ^ 
 I heard he intinded first for your parts, and to that 
 end was desierd to press J. Gratton to meet him, but 
 I had no answer from him, nor know not wt. is 
 intended. Love has an influence upon our iFriend ; 
 he now makes BristoU his Center, but does keep 
 moveing to and fro, and has great and good service 
 — But this affaier is not very well rellisht by many ; 
 yet I hope, after all, twill terminate in a Comfort to 
 him ; but was it now to doe, I see nothing in me to 
 advise him to it. He has judgement, and I believe 
 has sought for Councill, I hope his owne inclinations 
 did not hinder the opennings of it unto him. I 
 have been as plaine, as I dare since I knew nothing 
 of it, till twas to late for contrary considerations 
 to take place. I am not easy in it, yet I dont se 
 how he could much mend it, unless by letting all 
 alone. 
 
 I hear, thy company was desierd by the B.^ of 
 Yorke and his retinew to congratulate, but whither 
 twas want of time or inclination to the worke, I 
 know not — Pray remember me to thy Brother 
 Heathcote, and tell him, the bussieness abt a servant 
 I proposed for at the request of a ffiriend of mine 
 
 ^ Penn married his second wife, Hannah Callowhill, in 1696. 
 She died 1726, eight years after her husband, and was buried in 
 his grave at Jordans. 
 
 ^ John Sharp, consecrated Archbishop of York 1691. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 63 
 
 will not doe, their mindes being altered — I should 
 have wrote to him of it a month since, but I forgot 
 it — A good acco' of his perseverance would be 
 acceptable, knowing that if he is truly one with us, 
 his Capascity and Circumstances would be made 
 usefuU to us, though tis chiefly for his sake that I 
 desier his wellfare. I must not have thee a dome- 
 stick. I beseech thee, put thy selfe upon a suteable 
 conversation : flfriends in the ist place are to be 
 prefFerd next a sort of the most Civill Gentrey 
 whoes company, sometimes, if thou keeps in thy 
 place, may be of service to thy selfe, however twill 
 be to them as thou keep in that that will bare thee 
 up wth thy testimoney over them in wisdome and 
 Savour of truth, as thou art made comformable to it, 
 who has of that wch. is esteemed Worldly Honnours. 
 Let them see that in thee that they will not in others 
 — because they are apt to dispise this meanness. 
 Methincks I see a service for thy Charracter wn. I 
 consider as Truth at first brooke forth among them 
 that ware of low degree so their service were among 
 such. So as thou art in a higher station, se if . . .^ 
 have not a service that all may worke together to 
 the Glory of him that has called us — Tis now late so 
 must end and my wifes dear love to thy Mother and 
 Brother and Sisters. I am thy cordiall ffriend 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 Excuse my immethodicall scrible, twas ruff as it 
 ran. 
 
 1 Illegible. 
 
64 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Ffor 
 Sr John Rodes att 
 
 Balbro: Hall. 
 To be left at Joseph Storrs 
 in 
 
 Chesterfield. 
 
 London the 23rd of -2- 1696. 
 
 My dear Ffriend, — The occasion of all this, 
 principally, is a late concerne on my mind that I 
 have of late so small a correspondency wth. thee, 
 upon wch. reflecting our former intimacey, I am 
 troubled wth. myselfe as well as at thee. Let us, I 
 pray thee, no longer be guilty of such remisness, 
 that if personal converse is obstructed by our remote 
 circumstances, we may revive our near acquaintance 
 this way. Indeed, I hoped to se thee at our 
 anniversary meeting, a time, that I hoped nothing 
 but a necessitous occation would interpose. I long 
 to se thee, and I would that the time was come, we 
 might have a happie meeting. I can, in truth, say 
 my desires are for thy good every way, — I should 
 be glad, I was in a capacity to serve thee in any good 
 office for tis the cheifFest good. I love thee, and in 
 that I desire thy preservation, as for my selfe. 
 
 I, enclosed, send thee a little booke I thinck well 
 don, and will give G. K.^ uneasiness. He, of late, 
 have been very troublesome, haveing wrote a nar- 
 rative of his work at Turner's Hall ; which booke is 
 now I thinck answering. Wm. Pen intends to do 
 
 ' George Keith. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 65 
 
 his part whome he envyes greatly, as well as G. W.^ 
 — the former have lately finished a defence to his 
 Key, being an answar to a booke wrote against it — 
 I thinck that is well don — 
 
 He is now at Wormeinghurst enioying his consort 
 who lately went thither, and has for her companion 
 one that I ever thought a proper companion for thy 
 selfe, as beleiving thou wilt hardly ever exceed in 
 thy Choice, which if thou could, I should be glad off. 
 My pore wife is troubled againe wth. that sort of 
 humour that thou once saw, fell into her arme ; 
 now occationed by a scalld and is very troublesome. 
 Tis now abt. a weeke since she came by the hurt — 
 I hope thou art well. My wifes dear love to thee 
 and thy Mother &c. from thy affeectionate ffriend 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 Most people concludes the ffrench and the Duke 
 of Savoy have made a peace. 
 
 Ffor 
 Sr John Rodes 
 
 at 
 Joseph Storrs 
 
 Shopkeeper 
 In Chesterfield 
 
 Derbyshire. 
 
 London the 5th — 1697/8. 
 mo 
 
 My dear Ffreind,^ — I reed thine gladly, and I 
 would not have thee be spareing to write, because 
 
 * George Whitehead. 
 
66 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 thou have not oppertunity of intelligence in so remote 
 a part ; for as I love thee in a relation beyond that 
 of the nearest outward kindred, so anything comeing 
 from that Divine relation renews it — we have indeed 
 the opportunities of much conversation, and that of 
 a better sort ; yet I know not but a little more re- 
 collection from the knowlidge of the world to the 
 measureing our selves would be better ; and not 
 abusing sollitude, doubtless, is a double advantage to 
 them that have it. . . . It has pleased the Lord to 
 
 vissit a member of P nt. viz. Esq"' Waller,^ 
 
 wth a concerne to inquier after truth, in the way of 
 it : and within this weeke have been at severall 
 meetings. He seems inclined to leave all the Glory 
 and repputation he had, and that not a little, to 
 imbrace that Dispised Principle and People that the 
 Lord has discovered and gathered a remnant unto — 
 Altho for some years, he have had a pticular love and 
 care for us. I have heard, W. P.'s preface to G/ffs ^ 
 Journall hath conduced much to awaken him. I am 
 in a concerne for his perseverance, being in hopes, 
 he may lead the way to a further openness among 
 psons of his ranck — a man of learning and great 
 quallities ofminde and of a good ffammily — I intend 
 to go to his lodgings to morrow in order, to conduct 
 him to meetings, being yet a stranger. Through 
 W. P.'s means, I have had him at my house, and am 
 somewhat acquainted — Salem Osgood have lately 
 been very ill, but now, I hope, mending. He have 
 had a ffresh vissit of the Love of God, both in 
 Judgement and in mercey, of wch. he is truely sencible 
 
 ^ Edmund Waller, second son and heir of the poet. 
 ^ George Fox's " Journal." 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 67 
 
 and very humble, often in great broakenness. The 
 harts of flfrds are near him, and he feels it in love — 
 Tis a good day for him, and many have made him 
 comfortable vissits, pticularly W. P. . . . 
 
 So deer ffriend, I leave thee, in much love and 
 remaine as ever thy sincere ffriend 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 W. P. this day lefft us in order to go for Brisstoll, 
 and thence 1 thinck for lerland — I should be glad to 
 hear thou went w"^ him as companion, tho thats a 
 seeming contradiction to my desiering to se thee 
 here : yet as my end in both is thy good, it may the 
 better be reconciled. Tis such a journey that of any 
 I can propose to my selfe tis the best, and, nothing 
 but the clogs of the world hinders me. How do thy 
 Brother the Doctor do — "When here, I thought the 
 brand marke was not quite worne off. If any hopes, 
 travill for him and help him w' thou can — my love 
 is to him wn. thou se him. Vale — 
 
 Ffor Sir John Rodes 
 
 at Barber Hall. 
 To be left at Joseph Storr's Shopkeeper 
 
 In Chesterfield Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 30th — 1698. 
 ■^ mo 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — The Principle occation of my 
 present writeing is to Convey to thee the annexed 
 letter, lately sent to Samuel Waldingfeild,^ and as I 
 
 1 Quaker preacher, died 171 5, aged about sixty-three years. 
 
68 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 was pleased to se so great a man under those serious 
 reflections, so I thought it would be acceptable to 
 thee to have a sight of it allso. Wn. thou reads it, 
 thou need not be told he is a man of a quick under- 
 standing wch. iduement, having been all along mixt 
 with great uprightness, hath deservedly obtaind 
 him the love and esteem of men of that character — 
 I wish thou would let our dear fFriend J. Gratton 
 have a sight of it too, though tis hardly to be 
 justified (but by the good design e) so to expose 
 private letters — 
 
 I hope that our approaching meeting will not pass 
 over without thy company ; surely, no wordly con- 
 sideration should be a hindrance to thee from such 
 enjoyment, nor debarr us of it, that desire it so 
 much, as well for thy benefitt as our comfort in 
 thee wch. we have longed for. I shall end this in 
 as dear love as ever, hopeing for thy preservation 
 in wch. them that abides in the truth cannot but 
 love thee ; Thy affectionate ffrd. 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 He hath not been at the house yet. When he 
 sees it, his place to goe, I hope he will preserve 
 his peace, altho it be in a contradiction to the 
 world. 
 
 W. P. & he are very intimate ; letters of good 
 advice passeth from the one and well reed, by the 
 other — 
 
 I suppose W. P. is gon for lerland — 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 69 
 
 Coppy. 
 
 Hall Barne Beaconsfield Bucks. 
 
 the 26th day — 1698. 
 mo 
 
 Dear and Loveing Friend, — Thy letter of the 
 23rd inst. was extreame wellcome to me. A sober 
 felowship and communion in Christ Jesus is food 
 and refreshment to the soules of the Righteous. 
 It pleases the Lord to answer our breathings and 
 inward contemplations of and towards him, some- 
 times by quickening his seed in us, and makeing 
 his light shine brighter then at othertimes, both 
 when wee are alone and in silent meetings. But 
 when friends are mett and gathered upon solemn 
 occasions, as when thou and our London iFriends 
 were last in the country, then the Lord does make 
 his Glory more manifestly apeare by the Devine 
 openings he gives to those he raises at that time 
 to utter and unfold his pretious misteries. There, 
 att our Last meeting, the living fountaines of 
 Heavenly Waters flow'd abundantly, and Gods love 
 to man was made manifest by the Mouths of his 
 people. Thus were the children of Irael fed with 
 Manna from heaven and Rocks were made to send 
 forth wholesome waters, that is, devine Misteries 
 were explained and man assured of God's will 
 towards him, if he be obedient to his rules and law 
 written in our Hearts, and there only to be read, 
 and as we listen to his still voyce and secret dictates 
 with an humble and patient silence and waiting 
 
70 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 upon him, the Lord will draw near to us and his 
 light will shine as the Moon at full more Glorious 
 then the Son. Oh ! then lett us turn to him and 
 submitt to him who alone is Worthy, who will be 
 to us a father, friend, Brother, and a glorious Bride- 
 groome, drawing us near to him in spiritual love — 
 a love that never waxes old and has noe End, 
 alwayes following, alwayes refreshing, allwayes 
 young. Washt in the Heavenly Euridanus, her 
 golden streams will transforme and regenerate us to 
 what man was before the fall, when God himself 
 communed with him. Then shall there need noe 
 Law, when Love has so united man to God, that 
 his owne will being lost, he has noe other will but 
 God's will. Oh ! may his Kingdome come and his 
 will be done in Earth as in Heaven. Then will the 
 same living Streame flow in Earth as in Heaven, and 
 Praise, songs, Hosanahs, and Halilujahs proclaim 
 Peace and Joy Eternal. This is the Philosophers 
 stone, this is the perpetual motion, supplied by God 
 who is the Everlasting fountaine of Blisse the 
 Summum Bonum, that turns all soules into his 
 own Devine Essence. 
 
 I salute thee with the Peace of God. I am thy 
 sincere and lowing friend and Brother in Christ 
 Jesue 
 
 Edmond Waller. 
 
 My fonder love to thy Dear Wife and thanks 
 for her concerne for me. I have now no present 
 thoughts of seeing the Towne, but lovingly accept 
 thine other kind proffer. My Love to all friends, 
 particularly Henry Goulding and those that were 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 71 
 
 downe with the King for such an other opportunity 
 and thou and they shall always be wellcome to me, 
 and indeed here may be an Harvest. I hope the 
 Lord will send Laborers. 
 
 For 
 Sir John Rodes. 
 
 To be left at 
 Joseph Storrs 
 
 In 
 Chesterfeild. 
 
 Derbyshire. 
 
 London the 20th — 98. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — I have thine wch came in my 
 absence, haveing been at one of my neeces marriage 
 at Chippenham whom young Mick Russell has 
 taken to wife — I am alwayes glad of thine, and now 
 to Choose since my former wth the inclosed came 
 so acceptable, I have great hopes of the pson,^ my 
 early acquaintance, upon his first comeing to meet- 
 ings, hath led me to a great ffreedom wth him, 
 having been divers times at his house in the Coun- 
 trey. He has an indisposition so mallencholly, and 
 of a weakly constitution, and I find good company 
 mends both ; and to do him good, I have used 
 a moddest freedom — He is under the conduct of 
 Tho. EUwood.^ They both love and value each 
 other, and has great kindness for our fFrd W. P. 
 
 ' Edmund Waller. 
 
 ^ See note to letter, p. 91. 
 
72 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 whose epistle to G. fF's Journall was I thinck the 
 1st help he had to open him towards truth. 
 
 I hear thou hast an intention to come for London 
 abt the autum, of wch I am glad, hopeing it may- 
 hold, for I long to se thee. I observe thy notice 
 upon reprinting W. P.'s E.P.I.^ — wth a new date, 
 and not to mention it to be a 2d eddition. I have 
 upon like occation blamed the printer, but tis their 
 present advantage. I am satisfied he intended no 
 present reflection, and the book being publick before, 
 I hope it will prevent any malicious Caviller that 
 may insinuate to his prejudice — He is expected 
 home quickly ; but I fear he will not come by way 
 of the north ; his wife being lately ill, of wch I 
 suppose he had notice, and altho since, she is 
 mended, that may not reach him. It would greatly 
 please me, he vissited those northern parts upon 
 his returne, it having been long expected from him. 
 I dont remember wt letter of the Esqr twas, I sent 
 thee a coppy of, but as I remember, twas one to 
 S.W.'s.^ He since wrote another very extreordinary 
 to one of his ffellow members discussing his not 
 atending the house : Whither thou have seen that 
 or no, I know not — John Archdale ^ I suppose thou 
 has heard is Chosen and intends to stand to his 
 Choice this Sessions. I am not easy at it, for, first, 
 
 ^ E.P.I., "England's Present Interest," first printed in 1675. 
 Penn's " Fruits of a Father's Love " was first " made public for 
 a general good " by a " Lover of his memory, J. R." (John Rodes), 
 1726. 
 
 " Samuel Waldenfield. 
 
 ' Son of Thomas Archdale of Bucks. Became Governor of the 
 Carolinas about 1695. Was returned to Parliament for Wickham, 
 Bucks, in 1699. But because he would not take the oath was not 
 allowed to sit. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 73 
 
 I question if he can quallify himselfe (tho that he 
 seems to be out of question of) and yet keep within 
 the verge of his Principle as a ffriend — But however 
 it will cause many to immagin that we aim at that 
 post, and to prevent us, they may abridge us of the 
 libberty they intended us — I thinck, if we can be 
 quiet, we need not desier any post, as matters now 
 stand — -I have scarcely room to say more, so shall 
 end this in true love with desiers we may for ever 
 be kept in that wch will recommend us to God and 
 in love one to another wch concludes this from thy 
 affectionate ffi-d. 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 My wife is still in the Countrey. 
 
 Ffor 
 Sir John Rodes at 
 
 Ballbrough Hall 
 near Chesterfeild 
 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the ist — 99. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffrd, — 1 reed, thine, by wch. I perceived 
 thy getting home saffe, of wch. I was pleased, as 
 always I am, at the Providence that affords thee 
 good, thou being near me in my desires whoes 
 pticular affectionate and free conversation obliged 
 both me and my dear wife, and thou, (for want of 
 it) lefft us sorrowfuU. You two are fitt companions 
 in soUitudes, and I am fitt to mend you both by my 
 ChearfuUness, and where tis held with in the line 
 
74 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 I thinck, maliorates the spirits and renders them 
 quick and active and the body thereby it renders 
 more capeable of geting through the many incon- 
 veniencys, natures infirmities subjects us unto — Tis 
 so long agoe that I had thine, that now I am write- 
 ing, I know not where to finde it, wch. will render 
 me imperfect in my returne ; but one thing I 
 remember, wch. was to excuse thy not takeing thy 
 farewell of our friend ; but the reason of it was 
 so far from obliging me to it, that I know not that 
 I ever did it — The worke he would a put thee 
 upon was so suteable that I wish thou had engaged 
 in it. Thou have rare armour against the efforts 
 of our adversarys, — but not useing it tis grown 
 rusty. Once thou was ingaged, I beleive thou 
 would finde it pleasant ; and wt. more common 
 than for one Gentleman to be anothers 2nd. . . . 
 He is now daily expected here, haveing been wth. 
 his wife at BristoU and the great difficulty of parting 
 wth. those near relations is over, G. K. was there 
 rejected by ffriends, but received by the Baptists — 
 ffriends was challinged by G. K. at Turner Hall at 
 the Baptist meeting, ffriends wrote to them that if 
 they would own him, they would meet him and 
 them upon the Challinge. It went of well as far 
 as I hear — My ffriend, 1 hope thou willt meet wth. 
 such an inducement that in a little time shall se 
 thee againe — I am wth. mine and my wifes Dear 
 Love, thy affectionate ffriend 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 W. P. is just now come to towne. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 75 
 
 Ffor 
 Sir John Roades 
 
 at Balber Hall 
 near Chesterfield 
 
 Derbyshire 
 
 London the 5th -Z- 99. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Friend, — To whom my love flows free and 
 clear always wishing thee health and prosperity. 
 
 My last was in great haste, yet could not delay it 
 longer since twas in returne to the Civillity of thy 
 last kinde letter. I had hopes of seing thee abt this 
 time, and my thoughts are thou may spend the winter 
 wth more comfort here than in that could and soli- 
 tary Countrey ; for here thou may have the choice 
 either of conversation, or retierment ; and, I thinck, 
 a mixture does well — I waited upon the Governer, 
 at Southampton,^ abt 2 weeks since, wth many other 
 ffriends. We have had a pleasant time sailing up 
 and downe abt the Isle of Weight where the ship 
 lay ; as well as at other times we had good meetings. 
 The Mayor at Southampton readily granted the town 
 Hall where we had a large auditorey entertained with 
 B. Coole and the Governer, both dischargeing their 
 giffts to the honnour of truth. In the evening 
 of that day we had a solemn parting meeting at 
 our inn, consisting mostly of fFriends, where many 
 testimoneys ware boarne in great reverence to the 
 AUmighty, love and affection to our ffriend and his 
 returne to us. The remembrance thereof will, I hope, 
 dwell comfortably wth many. From BrisstoU wth 
 ^ Penn, Governor of Pennsylvania. 
 
76 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 B. C. &c. came an OxfFord Schollar, not long since 
 convinced. His grave and wise deportment gave 
 me great hopes of his usefuUness. At Bristol! they 
 have provided him a Schoole. Tis not him that 
 was wth thy Brother at last yearly meeting — I lefft 
 the Governor there wind bound. He went on the 
 Island who was well reed there by the Governor who 
 appointed a meeting for him and was at it himselfe. 
 The wind first day last, comeing abt ffaier, I hope 
 they set saile and that he may safely arrive in his 
 own Countrey and meet wth a suteable reception 
 to his chairacter and merit. Could I have but the 
 wings of the morning to se that soUemn entertain- 
 ment, I thinck thou believes I would take fflight— 
 
 I am dear ffriend with mine and my wifes deer 
 love thy Cordiall ffriend 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 For 
 Sr. John Rodes barrett 
 
 at badborough Hall 
 near Chesterfield 
 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 26th — 1700. 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — Altho I wanted a letter from thee, 
 because I love thee, yet haveing heard by another 
 hand, thou got well downe, it made me easie. Thy 
 kinde resentment on the ffamily ffriendship of my 
 house is owing to a better Character than worldly 
 honour, for that had come to slight so homely a 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 77 
 
 treatment, but thy humillity hath learned thee con- 
 tent wth meaner things than thy station deserves, 
 as well as thy generous present did answar, so that 
 thou at once have acted both the Christian and the 
 Gentleman ; and indeed to be truely the one, is to 
 make a good step towards the other ; and all that 
 I can say in return of thy Grattitude, thou had the 
 Wellcome, as well as the fFreedom of my house, and 
 my heart too, in both wch. I tooke those libberties 
 wth thee, that the best excuse I can make is, that I 
 forgot all maner of distinctions — affection not being 
 limmitted to the iFormallity of Peddigree — I am 
 pleased thy cold hath left thee, altho, sorry that the 
 occation of thy hawking remains, and shall gladly 
 forgive thee my Censure on Tobacco, if it please 
 God to aiford thee releiffe thereby. I know not 
 whither thou tooke downe any. If not, pray advise, 
 for I should be glad to present thee with some 
 of W™ Warrins wch. I take to be the best for a 
 young profficient, because of its mildness. To 
 renew to thee my old solicitations in this way that 
 I have so often discoursed upon, will make the 
 subject threadbare, but as tis one of the most 
 materiell points to ad a Lusture to thy great enjoy- 
 ments, I cannot but press it upon thee, that thou 
 would reconcile thy dull inclinations to the reason- 
 ableness of it, and let a serious thought determine 
 the point that wants nothing but thy assent — Not 
 long after thou leffts us, my wife lefFt me, and is 
 gon to Alesbury — a vacancey at once too great for 
 my conversation — I understand thy charriot is not 
 yet readdy. Had thou not better let it stay here 
 for thy returne from the yearly meeting, unless thou 
 
78 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 choose to send for it down to ride up in it, for so 
 that thou do but come, either, or any way, shall 
 serve me. Phaps thou may have a mind to take 
 the B. of D. — by along wth thee. I have had a 
 kinde letter from him wch. is what he wants from 
 thee, haveing not heard of thee since he lefft us — 
 We are now a building a meeting house at Wapping, 
 to ease RatclifFe, and retaken the Bull and Mouth,^ 
 so that we are like to be accommodated wth two good 
 ones, for we intende very much to improve the 
 latter — ^I know not but R. Claridge did preach in 
 our meetings before thou went. Since, I have heard 
 him whose beginnings gives hopes of a growth to a 
 great service among us — I pceive thy uncle reed no 
 satisfaction at the meeting he was at here, but rather 
 a confirmation of our weakness. It must be all lefft 
 to the wise disposer that in his time can bend more 
 sturdy oakes than he ; a way he is a taking wth some, 
 pticularly at Nottingham, whare is a Pristbitarian 
 minnister convinced, and left his flock ; and honest 
 Christopher Midell continues hopefull. Jon Tom- 
 kins was well today, and I thinck so are thy acquain- 
 tance generally. I am wth Dear love thy ffriend 
 sincerely 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 1 The early Quaker meetings were held at the "Bull and 
 Mouth," Aldersgate. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 79 
 
 Ffor 
 Sir John Rodes 
 
 at Balbrough Hall 
 near Chesterfield 
 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 28th -^ 1700. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — I shall not observe the Cere- 
 money of due returnes, but give thee wt is on 
 my minde, notwithstanding thy silence. — I am now 
 to tell thee, ptly at the request of John Gratton, 
 that our meeting is over. I am glad, I can say, 
 we had many comfortable seasons, and the afFaiers 
 of the Church managed to a pretty generall satis- 
 faction ; we had some few interuptions by some 
 that use to give it ; yet they were not able to 
 obstruct any overtures that were made for a generall 
 advantage. — 
 
 The Subscriptions for the Appollogey ^ amounted 
 to near 7000, and we have agreed to have them 
 well don, and in Calve for 2/100. That being 
 finished, we made a proposall to print it in ye 
 French tongue, and that for its name would scarcely 
 be boarne, some pleading that the Lattin was 
 the more universall Languidge. But by the helpe 
 of thy brother and some others that were more 
 proper Judges, we gaind the point, that we should 
 have another translation, wch, altho, at one time, 
 I did almost dispond of obtaining, yet, many 
 
 1 " The Apology " was written by Thomas Barclay (1675), and is 
 remarkable as the standard exposition of the principles of the 
 Quakers. 
 
8o A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Countrey fFriends was so concerned to proppogate 
 the worke, that they carried it by the force of 
 truth, that tis now agreed 1500 be printed, after 
 tis well translated into french — We had no Epistle 
 from the Governor. I suppose thou have heard 
 he hath a son — His name is John . . . Thy brother, 
 I have great hopes, will come to a good settlement. 
 I thinck he is taking root — Conversation with sub- 
 stantiall fFrds will do him good. He ingeniously 
 detected the false notion of the Lattin being the 
 most generall Language — I had like to have 
 forgot, that Thos. Willson hath his dear love 
 to thee, and bid me tell thee that before he came 
 to London he had hopes of seeing thee here, and 
 the want of it troubled him ; for he desierd to 
 se thee more than any one man. I give it at 
 large, since tis unusuall for him to speake so — 
 G. K.'s steeple house sermons are printed, really 
 flatt and dull, wanting in manner and matter. I 
 finde no one that values him for his revollt. 
 Dear love to thee. 
 
 H. G. 
 
 Ffor 
 Sr. John Rodes 
 
 at Barlbrough Hall 
 near Chesterfeild 
 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 23rd -2- 1700. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffrd, — I hope I am not too early in 
 
 Congrattulateing thee upon the favourable Pro- 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 8i 
 
 vidence of thy recovery ; ^ since thy man was so 
 kinde the last post to give me the wellcome 
 news that on the 14th day of thy Indisposition 
 thou was hopeful!. The love I bare thee, leads 
 me to desier, if twas the Lords will, thou might 
 be restored againe, so that we might enjoy thee 
 after this sore affliction, wch being once well over, 
 would releive thee and thy dear Mother from 
 those Common cares that the fear of this distemper 
 brings. It was the great distance that discouraged 
 my giveing thee a vissit together wth the short 
 time that the disease usually takes to determine 
 the ishue of it. I bless the Lord for this mercey, 
 and I am perswaded, twill be a renewed obligation 
 to thee to give the Lord the remainder of thy 
 days that hath so emminantly remembered the 
 kindness of thy youth, in making him thy Choice, 
 wn others were neglecting their time by spending 
 it in vannity. I was pleased to hear how thou 
 was vissited by thy pticular ffrds, as well as that 
 thy dear Brother thy Doctor was so usefull to 
 thee when thou could not help thy selfe — all 
 wch doubtless was some comfort to thy poor exer- 
 cised IMother, whose hopes was almost gone. 
 Thou should be carefull of thy eyes (Reading, 
 thy beloved Companion) will be hurtful! to thee. 
 When tis fitting, makeing visits will doe thee 
 more good. Be sure yield to thy brothers direc- 
 tions . . . but being wth the Learned, I have 
 nothing to recommend thee but obedience. I 
 must not be to long, for fear of putting thee 
 to a taske I have cautioned thee against — read- 
 
 ^ From the smallpox. 
 
 F 
 
82 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 ing, I mean — I shall therefore Conclude wth mine 
 and my wifes dear love to thee, thy Mother, 
 Brother, relations and ffrds. I am, in great affec- 
 tion thy Cordiall ffrd 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 If dear J. Gratton is with thee, pray present 
 my dear love to him in pticular. 
 
 To John Gratton 
 
 For 
 John Gratton. 
 
 To be left at 
 Joseph Ffriths 
 
 In Chesterfeild 
 Derbyshire. 
 
 London the 27th _2- 1700. 
 
 Dear J. G., — ^Thy thus takeing notice of me, 
 drawes great love from me, and the sence of 
 the favour will rather humble than exalt me, 
 knowing how unworthy I am of the notice of 
 so many worthies — Thy news of my dear ffriend* 
 brought sorrow wth it, wch lasted noe longer than 
 the reading it, for the next letter I opened, was 
 one from Cornelius — who gave me a very hope- 
 full accot of his recovery. Thine had no date 
 his was of the 22 nd, so that I hope, thine is 
 more early, for that thou werst gon home. Dear 
 Jno, I hope our ffriend wrll be a greater comfort 
 to thee than ever, an oppertunity being afresh 
 
 '- Sir John Rodes. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 83 
 
 put into his hands to see the near affection of 
 his ffriends, and who it is, in the time of need, 
 travills for him. Oh ! how doe I desier that 
 his noble understanding may be more and more 
 enlightened wth the brightness of the sun of 
 righteousness ; and that being in love wth it, 
 that he could not do other wise, than tell his 
 neighbours of the glory of this excellent appear- 
 ance, and that he would let his bow abide in 
 strength, that he might shoot the arrows of the 
 Almighty among the great ones of the Earth, 
 that they might be struck at hart ; for many 
 will owne the truth in the notion and takes it 
 in at the head, that armes themselves from being 
 wounded in the right place. ... I hear G. K. is 
 gone for BrisstoU. Wt reception he hath, at 
 present, I know not. Tho. Upshire is gone 
 thither allso, so that I hope G. K. by preaching 
 against us, will send many to our meetings, and 
 that such a lively minnistrey will meet wth them, 
 that it may be efFectuall to the helping of many. 
 His endeavours hath had this contrary effect hitherto, 
 and doubtless it would be much more so, was it not 
 for the great weakness that too often attends such 
 that otherwise should be blessed wth the reward 
 of turning many to righteousness.— Reading will 
 be for a time prejudiciall to our ffrd, so that 
 I would have him divert himself among you at 
 Meetings, I should thinck it a wonderful enjoy- 
 ment to be so imployed, was I not fetterd wth 
 the necessary cares of this liffe. I have had a 
 long letter from the Governor, — is much ffatigued 
 in setting wt in his absence has been to his pre- 
 
84 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 judice unsettled ; allso to redress dissorders in 
 mal administration that created him trouble and 
 Charge here to defFend. Many ancient fFriends 
 being removed, he wants a recruit. Tho: Storey^ 
 stayes — I hope will give him some ease, being a 
 man of temper and discreation, and of some com- 
 petent knowlidge in the law — I have seen one 
 of his printed proclamations against Piracey wth 
 a reward to apprehend them — a peice of villaney 
 that too much swarmes in those seas — Many are 
 taken, sent over and executed and many more 
 like to follow that Example — Since the above 
 Jno Tomkins shewed me another letter from the 
 Doctor giveing great hopes all will be well — 
 His care and paines, will I hope, raise a suteable 
 returne of affection and that there may be a 
 greater nearness than of late hath been. The 
 strong should bear wth the weake ; his illness, 
 I desier, may serve as an outward ffigure thereof 
 — I love Unity, espeatially among Brethen — I am 
 now obleiged to end, being late. Mine and my 
 wifes dear love sallutes thee and all thats thine, 
 the same to Thos Aldam &c. if thou sees him ffrom 
 thy Reall ffrd 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 Of this wandring Bugg,^ he is bent to doe 
 
 ' Thomas Storey, Quaker, 1670-1742. Was a churchman until 
 1689, when he joined the Quakers. Sailed for Pennsylvania in 1698, 
 where at the request of Wm. Penn he remained sixteen years. 
 
 ^ Francis Bugg, 1640-1724, writer against Quakerism. While 
 young joined the Society of Friends, among whom he soon 
 obtained an unenviable notoriety. Left the body 1680, and began 
 to write against it. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 85 
 
 wickedly. The Lord rebuke him in his owne 
 time and in his owne way. The Chancellor acted 
 nobley ; its a pitty some notice ware not taken 
 to him for his moderation. Would R. B.'s Appol- 
 logey ^ was ready that he might be presented. 
 
 To John Gratton 
 
 Ffor 
 John Gratton at 
 Joseph Storrs in 
 Chesterfeild 
 Derbyshire. 
 
 London the 29th — 1 700. 
 mo 
 
 Jno Gratton 
 
 Dear Ffrd, — Can we only condole each other in 
 adversity, and not congrattulate upon a reception of 
 so great mercey ; for ever since our dear ffrd hath 
 survived his danger, thou hast been silent, so that 
 now, I know not where a letter will meet thee red- 
 dily. I hope this affliction will draw him nearer his 
 best ffi-iends, by makeing him thinck they are in 
 reallity wt they seemed to be, and that none are 
 more interested in his liffe than those that are 
 desierous he should prepare for his death. I would 
 hope upon the same principles of care, he will thinck 
 of altering his condition upon better considerations 
 than the rareity of a fface since he sees wt an alter- 
 nation in a few weeks is made upon his own. 
 There is a beauty more endureing that may be 
 
 ' Barclay's " Apology." 
 
86 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 carried to the grave and that will be comfortable to 
 him on this side of it. Its a pitty smal things in 
 the outward vew, should shade the ornaments of 
 a meek, gentle, serious and ingenneous minde, wch 
 are virtues and beauties that Grace gives to be 
 prized beyond that of nature, or that can be raised 
 out of our own species — 
 
 Ffor some weeks past, G. K.^ hath been att 
 BrisstoU, where he hath been exerciseing poor B. C.^ 
 and the ffrds there ; in which they have not been 
 wanting to expose him in his Contradictions ; but 
 that wch was the most pleasant is wt a ffrd, a witty 
 Cobbler, that they sent to spread a small pap ; 
 printed upon him. He challinged a meeting like a 
 nother pt at Turners Hall there. Noe ffrds came, 
 but this Man. G. K. asked him wt Profession, he 
 sd a Cobbler. Then he asked G. K. leave to pro- 
 pose one or two more, wch was granted — the ist 
 was how he might have an assurance of his salva- 
 tion. G. K. said : by the spirit within him and the 
 Scriptures without him. He returned he could not 
 read — The other was whether the spirit dictated the 
 Script: or the Script: the Spirit — G. K. made no 
 answer but that he did not take him to be so cun- 
 ning a fellow — The Question ... to purpose for 
 the answer would pinch him — I am confined, so 
 must end in Dear love and great haste from thy 
 reall ffrd 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 Its so scrawled I am ashamed ont. Excuse haste. 
 ^ George Keith. " Benjamin Coole. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 87 
 
 Ffor 
 Sr. John Rodes 
 
 at Balbrough Hall 
 near Chesterfeild 
 
 Derbyshire. 
 
 London the 28th — 1700. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffrd, — I recvd thine of the 14th, and 
 since that, the box wth the last wigg wch. C. M. is 
 willing to take againe. Coulers in the fancy are 
 variable. I thought I had nickt it — Thou takes 
 notice of the concern of thy fFrds. and how accept- 
 able their care was for thy recovery. I am pleased 
 that that had any place wth thee in those exercising 
 moments, as well as tis a comfort to us that the 
 Lord has spared thee among us, so that we have 
 hopes of enjoying thee yet againe, here away, to 
 which thy late intentions signified gives us a further 
 prospect of obtaining that we soe much desier ; and 
 altho the more I had of thy conversation, the better 
 I thought it, yet it being a supposed advantage to thy 
 health, I am content wth the distance — Methincks 
 the Lady, thy Mother, should come up wth thee — 
 You have a Charriot, wch should be useful to carry 
 her to meetings and to see her fFrds. I am reddy 
 to thinck conversation would doe her good, and I 
 know not where she may choose better than about 
 this towne — It is often that distemper leaves re- 
 maines, and I question not the Doctors care and 
 skill to carry that off too. That he hath such a 
 glowing Interest among so many noble men is wt I 
 
8 8 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 am pleased at, but tis no more than wt I thought 
 would be the consequence of an honest resignation 
 — I hope he is now fitter to bare the Cross in 
 a faithfuU testimoney to truth, than I feared he 
 would, when first he believed. He now knows 
 where he misst it, and wt it cost him to recover 
 it againe, so that by the dearness of the purchase, 
 he will know how to prize the Perle — Marriage is a 
 subject I thought of laying aside, wn writeing to 
 thee, but thy reviveing it, altho wth disponding 
 thoughts, leads me to tell thee thy happieness wants 
 compleating, untill thou come under that Yoake. I 
 presume thy Visage is more massculine, an agree- 
 able object to the other sex ; besides thou have 
 many Oyles and delicious waishes that will sett off a 
 more rugged Countinance, than I believe the fury 
 of thy distemper lefft thee — I would willingly 
 impart unto thee any thing of moment, but really 
 wn I consider wt I have, nothing worthy thy notice, 
 or too long to relate this way — G. K. on his way 
 from Brisstoll, called at Melsham ; Those where he 
 lodged wth others, I suppose, thincking to have 
 some diversion, sent for Thos. Beavon, whoe was 
 as willing to meet him, as they to have him — After 
 some prelimminerrys agreed to. G. K. began with 
 T. B., who answard him wth that distinction and 
 Caution, that, to be sure, greatley disapointed their 
 hopes — Twas whether the Light was sufficient with- 
 out any thing else, and abt the Scriptures — all wch 
 he came off soe well wth, that the poor man confest 
 he was such a Quaker as himselfe was, and differd 
 little or nothing from wt he was now — Some Priests 
 was there, confest he was very ingenious. They 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 89 
 
 would had him goe to hear G. K. He told them 
 upon Condition if he had matter, to object upon wt 
 he heard, he would otherwise not ; wch they refuse- 
 ing, he told them to his face, he had heard him and 
 been tired wth his tedious, dull preaching, and so 
 had some of their own church — His father was 
 present, and altho a Church man, boasted his son 
 outdid him, — Excuse the length of mine, for indeed 
 historicall relations tiers me — But I thinck thou 
 should come up and settle before the winter quite 
 comes in. I am, wth mine and my wife's dear love 
 to thee and thy Mother and the Doctor and other 
 ffi-ds from thy reall iFrd 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 Ffor 
 Sr John Rodes at Balber. 
 To be left at Joseph Ffriths 
 In Chesterfeild. 
 
 London the i8th of — 1700. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffrd, — The news of thy getting well home 
 affords great joy to thy ffriends, many of whome 
 pittied thy Cold journey. Providence favourd thy 
 inclinations that was strong to se thy affectionate 
 Mother, and the sence of your mutuall rejoycing in 
 seing each other I had a sympatheticall touch of, 
 haveing so lively a taste of that nattural love Com- 
 plicated with a great many indeard Providences. 
 Thou knows how to make a worthy return for 
 
90 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 so great favours. And after all, if thou can thinck 
 of the poor Doctor wth. that respect that becomes a 
 brother, it will demonstrate that evenness of temper 
 and good disposition that is not usually seen. I am 
 satisfied twas not true religion that misleads him, 
 but twas mistakes of it, too much the companion of 
 his dayly conduct. I hear he hath lost a lovely son 
 in his absence, and will finde a wife sorely afflicted, 
 wch. I perceive was increased by finding thee with- 
 out him come to her house, and thou could give no 
 accot. of him neither, all wch. I hope will be as so 
 much the more weight upon his mind in order to 
 show him after wt he rambles. Oh that he was 
 wise, since the truth leads to a good understanding, 
 for tho' I beleive he designes not amiss, yet for 
 want of guarding against to many ffamiliar spts. (I 
 was almost goeing to say) he is, I thinck innocently 
 betrayed but for all this, love must cover and 
 affection to the better pt pittey his want of judg- 
 ment in things of this nature — We have had tem- 
 pestuous weather of late : many ships lost — one for 
 Maryland, tho in the news sd for Pennsilvania and 
 that they abt 80 psons, mostly Quakers, was lost, 
 wch is false. But one thing is worthy thy notice, 
 that Tho. Tompson &c. was abt to take passage 
 in that ship ; but wn he went in to vew her, he sd, 
 he saw nothing but a Cloud of darkness abt her and 
 would not goe in her. There is since, a ship from 
 Pensilvania ; a passenger tells me our ffrds and 
 ffammily are well and matters towards a good under- 
 standing and settlemt. For want of more matter 
 worthy thy notice, I must end wth mine and my 
 wifes dear love to thee and thy dear Mother. I 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 91 
 
 am wth that love that hath ever lasted thy Cor- 
 diall ffrd 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 Thy wigg and some other smal things lyes here 
 for thee. 
 
 Ffor 
 Sr. John Rodes at Balbrough. 
 
 To be left with 
 Joseph Ffrith 
 
 Chesterfeild 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 21st of — 1700. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffrd, — My last was last post to wch I refer 
 thee, being my sentiments at that time, since wch, 
 we have letters from our dear iFrd Governer Penn 
 intimateing his and ffamily's health and that things 
 are growing better as to a good understanding 
 between him and the People of his Countrey, he 
 finding things in an unsettled posture. Thos. 
 Storey is more pticular touching their late Generall 
 assemblys — Conclusions haveing given him a pretty 
 good sume of money, besides an additional duty 
 upon the Imports and exports — so that I hope he 
 will in time be made easy, and all things will Con- 
 clude well — The other side is Coppy of a page come 
 from T. EUwood ^ to me, excusing his not perfecting 
 his answer to G. K. in deffence of W. P. abt 
 
 1 Quaker writer, at one time Milton's secretary; died 1713, aged 
 about seventy-four years. One of William Penn's earliest friends. 
 
92 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Deizme. He wrote abt 40 sheets, and now seems 
 resolved to decline It — It grieves me so great an 
 author should be discouraged. I intend to Load 
 B. C. wth it, more as I have a little already — 
 I am in haste, so must leave thee full of Love and 
 am thine in the bonds of true ffriendship 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 Indeed ! Is then the work by me begun, 
 And wch I laboured at wth such good will, 
 Already by a readier workman done, 
 Whos nimbleness hath added to his skill ! 
 Well may it thrive : successfull may it prove, 
 Truth's way to clear and stumbling blocks remove ! 
 
 I never was ambitious to appear 
 
 In print : nor to myself applause have sought, 
 
 With satisfaction therefore I can hear 
 
 What thou design'dst, anothers hand hath wrought. 
 
 This superceeds my work : I am glad to see 
 
 Such help come in, that ther's no need of me. 
 
 This is the third time I have thus been putt 
 
 Besides my work ; wch makes me think, my ffriend. 
 
 The controversiall door to me is shutt ; 
 
 And of my scribbling service, ther's an end. 
 
 If so, content ; wth pleasure I can see 
 
 The work well done, although not done by me. 
 
 T. E. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 93 
 
 Ffor 
 Sr John Rodes at Balber 
 Hall, near Chesterfeild 
 Darbyshire 
 (via 
 
 London) 
 Leave this with Anthony 
 Allan to be delivered as 
 on the other side 
 Chesterfeild. 
 
 Graithwaite the i8th -2- 1702. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — I have been at this place but abt 
 9 days and cannot easeily get away yet. John 
 Tomkins I hoped to meet wth at thy house, but 
 I finde he is to nimble for me, phaps I may meet 
 him at W"" EUisis on the 26th instant ; but of that 
 I know not, how to determine, untill I hear from 
 London, Tho. Zackery ^ having given me some ex- 
 pectation of meeting me at thy house, where my 
 wife and I intend, the Lord giveing leave, to make 
 thee a vissit. But the fear of hindering thee 
 drincking the waters troubles me. Was I not sure 
 T. Zackery would not waite for me there, I should 
 adventure to stay a little longer to se my old ffrds 
 J. T. and T. W. here, and my brother Rawlinsons ^ 
 marriage not yet sollemnized. That I expect, may 
 be in abt a weeke. If it fell out I should se thee 
 here wth the above ffrds, it would rejoice me to 
 
 ^ Thomas Zackery, of Beaconsfield ; died 1686. 
 ' William Rawlinson, of Furness, Lanes. 
 
94 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 returne wth thee and T. Z. to come wth thee, if I 
 . . . my thoughts of meeting them I may be wth 
 thee the 29th or 30th mine and my wifes dear love 
 sallutes thee and thy Mother, in great haste vale. 
 
 H. GOULDNEY. 
 
 Ffor 
 Sir John Rodes 
 
 at Barlebrough 
 near Chesterfield 
 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London, 3d -^^ 1703. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — I saw thine to John Tomkins, 
 and am pleased thou thought of me, that I might 
 share wth him in any news thats in thy favour, 
 as I beleive, that accomodation abt the Cole mines 
 wth thy neighbour may prove to be. May it be 
 teaching for the future — to be more open in con- 
 versation ; for many times, for want of consulting 
 things and persons, difficulties appear greater than 
 they be in themselves ; but I must not forget to 
 say, that there is a season in Providence that many 
 times presents, which renders difficulties more ffascile, 
 than when we goe about them, when the way is 
 hedged up. But men are more conversable, than 
 some are aware of — I scarcely meet with any man, 
 but in time, may be brought to reason, unless some 
 antiquated, empty professor of truth that hath losst 
 his oyle, and survived his understanding to that 
 degree, that nothing, but will governs him. Other 
 men, by the influences of reason, and a generous 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 95 
 
 principle, will be pennitrated, and of ennimyes be- 
 come fFreinds. I have seen so much of the latter 
 that I recommend it to thy Practise. Thou seems 
 to put difficulties in the way of thy comeing to 
 our annieversary, wch if thou willt attempt to over- 
 come, I am assured, are not impregnable, and to be 
 just to thy selfe, as well as to thy profFession, I 
 thinck, none of those things should obstruct thy 
 honouring us wth thy company ; besides, I had 
 hopes we might afterwards goe together to Norwich, 
 a journey I have a long time deseird, and hope 
 nothing will stand in my way ; but should be sorry 
 to have so great a check to the pleasure in it, as thy 
 absence will be — I hope thou found the Doctor not 
 the worse for our company, I ashure thee his was 
 pleaseing to us, yet not without the mixture of the 
 old sortment, but in the maine, free and easie, and, 
 I thinck, hath an eye opened to se some shortnesses 
 among some he used to admire. Love him, be free 
 to him, looke over weaknesses — tis more flights 
 than premedditation, an honest intention and loves 
 the better pt, though not without too much Cumber 
 and uneasiness. His wife should forget old weak- 
 nesses ; for reviveing aggrivates, raises stiffness, and 
 vindication, when if forgotten, would not be renewed 
 againe. I know thy care as well as discretion, and 
 therefore the less reason for this way of writing — I 
 did not forget thy orders to T. Sole ; but how she 
 forgot her owne interest, shall know better when I 
 speake wth her. I am (the Lord willing) intending 
 in a weeke or two to goe to the marriage of my 
 neece ; her desert, as well as relation prompts me 
 thereto — Its a pitty thy sister Thornton is so dis- 
 
96 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 consolate — over repineing will not be acceptable to 
 him that hath the lives of the remainder of her 
 Chilldren and they hopefuU ones too. I hope she 
 will not be unmindful to give them the best educa- 
 tion that may be condusive to her own comfort and 
 their advantage — Shall now conclude wth dear love 
 from thy reall ffrd. 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 My wife is wth her sister at Stratford. 
 
 Tate Sole^ tells me the bookes thou wrote for 
 is not yet printed, and thats the reason, but I pceive 
 they lost the memorandum and I cannot yet finde 
 thy letter in wch thou gives orders. 
 
 For 
 Sir John Rodes Knt. and Barr 
 
 at Barlbrough Hall 
 near Chesterfeild 
 
 Darbyshire 
 psent. 
 
 London the 14th — 1703. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffrd, — Knowing twill be acceptable the 
 hearing thy party grow strong — This night, upon 
 the first reading, the Occationall Confirmity bill ^ in 
 the house of Lords, after a long debate, was put to 
 the question and thrown out by a majority of 12 
 
 1 Tate Sowle, of George Yard, Lombard Street. She was 
 very slow in printing the Quakers' books, and there were many 
 complaints. 
 
 2 The Occasional Conformity Bill, to render occasional con- 
 formity illegal, was brought in by the Commons twice and was 
 twice rejected by the Lords. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 97 
 
 Lords. Tis said 14 Bishops was agst the bill. 
 The Commons carryd it wth a great majority, and I 
 believe, will resent this days worke, but I am glad 
 they are disapointed. The Queen, tis supposed, 
 favored the side that was against the bill, wch added 
 weight to the Ball, for wch the sober pty has her 
 in greater Reverance — We have yet noe news wt 
 effect the storme had in ffrance, nor have noe more 
 to say, but that I am ever thine with Dear love 
 to thy Mother 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 To Sr. John Rodes Baront 
 
 at Balber Hall 
 near Chesterfeild 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 6th of— 17 14. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Friend, — The sence of my ingrattitude 
 has oftentimes troubled me, that after the reception 
 of so generous a pressent, I should not be so 
 worthey as to let thee know it came to my hand ; 
 and I have nothing to say for my selfe, but that 
 it was often in my mind, tho, hitherto, I have not 
 don it, and I can only depend upon thy good nature 
 and a sence of thy forgiveing temper for so great an 
 omishion — It is indeed a long time since I had the 
 favour of a few lines from thee, but I must not 
 complaine, whiles so great an agressor, tho when 
 they come, it gives me a feast and always sorry wn 
 the banquet is at an end. 
 
 It is now about the time thou usually lookes 
 towards London : and as no time was ever more 
 
98 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 pleasant than the last, so it affords me the greater 
 pleasure to hope, that good time is comeing againe ; 
 and if these lines should be the least motive 1 
 should thinck them advantagiously bestowed. This 
 spring we have had the good company of my Cossen 
 Lydia Lancaster,^ sister to my brother Rawlinson, 
 a woman of extreordinary qualifications. She had 
 here a generall reception and so likewise in her 
 travills. She may well be accounted of the first 
 ranck ! Since she left us, she has travilled very 
 hard, has been at Oxford, Cambridge and Norwich, 
 and is now in Essex, and intends to vissit that 
 county pretty thurrowly. I hope to meet her this 
 week abt 40 miles off, and spend a few days with 
 her, but thincks not of coming hither untill near the 
 Y-M.^ ... I went with her to Reading and called 
 at our ffrds. at whose house she had an extreordinary 
 time In prayer. The Governor was much pleased 
 and I thinck it did him some good. It seemed 
 to me he was a great deale mended from the time 
 I waited upon thee to make him a vissit, and there 
 is hopes, if his life is spared, that he may be in 
 
 a great measure restored 
 
 But dear ffriend, I must say this world is attended 
 wth various exercises, and we still ly under the 
 mallancholly affliction of intestine trouble, so that 
 I do not se the end of them, but I thinck I plainly 
 se the ground thereof, wch is a libbertine spirit 
 ruleing in placed than were set up to prevent the 
 
 ' Lydia Lancaster, maiden name Rawlinson, noted Quaker 
 preacher. Lived at Lancaster. Died in 1761, aged about seventy- 
 seven. Had been a preacher for about fifty-three years, travelling in 
 England and America. Some of her letters were published in 1840. 
 
 ^ Yearly meeting. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 99 
 
 occation of disorder — The old bone of contention 
 still continues, and we are rather in a worse condition 
 than ever about it ; and altho what we desler wd be 
 offensive to none, yet the satisfied are so unkind 
 that by their Inclinations, I fear some of them dont 
 desier our ease and now are the more inraged upon 
 the apprehensions of looseing wt thy have or part 
 with their darling, a libberty of voteing — when would 
 they but se our true intrest, they had better part 
 with it, and if so, we have good ground to hope 
 the Commons wd grant us it in our own tearmes, 
 but if we touch upon that string, it is more than 
 will be boarne. . . . R. Claridge ^ has answared the 
 Essay with his name to it, and I thinck he has 
 bestowed a deale of pain to very little purpose upon 
 the winding up ... or however others will se it 
 to be so, that now has other thoughts of it. As to 
 publick affaiers, can say little. The Lords are at 
 close worke examining into things and are come to 
 several Resolutions upon late management that gives 
 speculation, and have agreed to address the Queen 
 abt the Pretender to ishue out her Proclamation 
 wth a Reward to take him if in her dominions. 
 I have no more, but dear love to thee and thy 
 dear Mother as also is my wife from thy assured 
 Cordiall fFrd. 
 
 H. G. 
 
 Give my dear love to Tho: Aldam wn thou sees 
 him. 
 
 1 Richard Claridge, Quaker writer and minister, wrote several 
 works, including "The Novelty and Nullity of Dissatisfaction, or 
 The Solemn Affirmation defended." 
 
lOO 
 
 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 To Sr. John Rodes Baront. 
 
 at Balber Hall 
 near Chesterfeild 
 
 Derbyshire. 
 
 London the 2 1 St of — — 14. 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — I had once some hopes thou wd 
 have accompanyed thy sister hither, and that that 
 would have aforded us some renewall of conversation, 
 that thou might have been diverted this dead season ; 
 but of that I was disapointed, and thou enjoying 
 thy selfe in thy mallanchally Cell. Methincks a new 
 Court ^ and such a happey administration should 
 have drawne a pson of thy speculation to have had 
 a curiossity of seing it ; but thou content thy selfe 
 in liveing under its kinde, tho remote inflewences. 
 As to affaiers amongst us, tis much as usuall, tho 
 the Persons of Cumberland for abt a month since, 
 has sufficiently exercised us, and we on the other 
 hand, have taken care of the quiet of our meetings 
 which has been made the easier to us, the Lord 
 Mayor favouring our complaint that the help of his 
 officers have contributed very much thereto. I am 
 not sure, but from what I have heard, I hope they 
 are gon out of Towne. Tho. Storey is come hither 
 from Ammerica. He continues his sollid and dis- 
 creet deportment — an extreordinary Man — The Dr. 
 thincks pretty well of him, altho not quite callculated 
 to his mariddion. But than the Doctor, I scarcely 
 know a pleasanter man. I often thinck his con- 
 
 * George I. had succeeded Queen Anne on August i, 1714. 
 
GEORGE, 
 
 KING of Great Britain, &c. 
 
 The Humble ADDRESS of the People called 
 Q.U A K E R S, from their Tearly-Meeting in 
 London, the 26th Day of the Third Month, 
 called M^y J iyi6. 
 
 May it Pleafe the K.ING ! 
 
 ' E, Thy Faithful and Peaceable Subjefls, being met in this 
 Our Annual Jffmhly, do hold Our felves obliged, in Point 
 of Principte and Gratitude, rather than by Formd and 
 Frequent Mdreffes, humbly and openly to acknowledge the 
 manifold Bleflings and kind Providences of God, which have attend- 
 ed thefe Kingdoms everiince thy Haffy Accelfion to the Throne. 
 
 And as Our Religion efFeftually enjoins Us Obedience to the Su- 
 peam Authority, fo it is with great Satisfaflion that we pay it to a 
 Prince, whofe "Juftice, Clemency and Moderation, cannot but endear, 
 and firmly unite the Hearts and Affeftionsof all His True Proteftant 
 Subjefts. 
 
 We are therefore forrowfully AffeSed for the Unhappinefs of thofe 
 of Our Countrymen, who have fo little Gratitude or Goodnefs, as to 
 be uneafie under fo juft and mild an Adminiftration : Nor can We 
 refleft on the late Unjuft and Unnatural Rebellion, without con- 
 cluding the Promoters thereoi> and- Aflors therein, were Men infa- 
 tuated, and hurried by fuch an Evil Spirit, as would lay wafte and 
 deftroy both the Civil and Religious Liberties of thefe Proteftant 
 Nations. 
 
 And as God, the Lord of Hofts, hasmoft fignally appeared to the 
 Confounding that B/af/!r Con/piracy, fo We pray his Good Providence 
 may always attend the King's Councils and Undertakings, to the 
 Eftablilbing His Throne in Righteoufnefs and Peace, and Making 
 his Houfe a fure Houfe. . 
 
 Permit Us therefore. Great Prince, to lay hold of • this Opportu- 
 nity to approach Thy Royal Prefence, with Our Hearty Thanks to the 
 King and His Great Council, for all the Privileges and Liberties We 
 enjoy. To behold a Prince upon the Throne, Solicitous for the Eafe and 
 Happinefs of His People beyond any other Views, fo hightens Our ba- 
 tisfaaion and Joy, that We want Words to exprefi Our full Senfe 
 thereof. And tierefbre We can do no lefs, than affure the K-ng, 
 That as it is Our Duty todemean 0"/S!^lves towards the King Per^ 
 fon and Government, with all Faithful Obe'l'^^.f' ^%y,t\'uV'God 
 mined, by Divine Affiftance, devoutly and heartily l?J^yjl\^°^ 
 and Fatiierof all OurMercies, To youchfafe unto '« Ki"S ^ L^^-^S' 
 Peaceable and Profperous Reign ; And ^^at when it ftall pleate tne 
 
 Almighty to remove from "s l"" P'^tL^Sv^ fS/ "dow^^ 
 
 feif, tlie/emaynot want ^Bra"ch of Thy Roj^^d W^ 
 
 with Wifdom and Virtue to fill the Throne, till JjmeH» 
 
 ""■^ The King's Gracious An^er. ^^^^^^^ 
 
 I Thank roufor the^uranceofpaa^^^ 
 1 Government, contained tn this Addrejs, 
 wy Protelfion. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS loi 
 
 versation wd be the best Physick thou could take. 
 An answar to R. Claridges Novellty is answared in 
 Primitive simplicity. Wn it comes to thy hands, I 
 should be glad it made thee quite a convert. I 
 thinck it will stir the old man so that for all, he will 
 scarcely be able to help himselfe, but wn thou sees, 
 thou willt judge for thy selfe — I also let thee know 
 by Naylor the Carrier, I send thee a smal barrell of 
 Collchester Oysters. The distance may affect them 
 to a disadvantage I desierd the best, and hope will 
 be good. The carriage is pd. The rest is the con- 
 tinued dear love of my selfe and wife. We have 
 the mercy of our health. "Wishing thee the same 
 with true respects to thy Mother. I am affec- 
 tionately thine 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 To 
 
 Sr. John Rodes Knight Barontt. 
 
 at Balber Hall 
 near Chesterfeild 
 
 Derbyshire. 
 
 But one entire sheet} 
 
 London the 31st of the — 17 16. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — 1 cannot say I owe this to thee 
 
 by reason, had thou been in the way of thy duty, 
 
 thou had been at the head of its delivery. But 
 
 though the most disapointed of any man in the 
 
 want of thy company, yet other obligacions lead me 
 
 to give thee the prefferance. This afternoone we were 
 
 ' Written on other side of the printed " Address to King George 
 by the Quakers." 
 
I02 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 admitted to the Kings presence, attending him wth. 
 our address. G. W/ had the usual honour to 
 present it wth an introductery discourse. Though 
 not very long, yet considering it was not lively, was 
 too long in the occasions. Upon presenting it, it 
 was returned by the King to him for reading, and 
 he, by a previous agreement, delivered it to B: 
 Coole who read it wth an aier usual to his elo- 
 quence, and made humble Corsees at the end of 
 every Paragraffe. At the end, he concluded wth 
 Amen saith the Reader and G. W. as wittily added : 
 and so we say all — The King seemed pleased with 
 our appearance, and I suppose might have been 
 favour'd to kiss his hand, wch some seemed willing 
 enough of, had we not before declared our disatis- 
 faction in introduceing a Novility, and if they wd., 
 we wd. either not goe, or at least signifie to him 
 our straight in the case. There were above 60 
 ffi"ds. namd, but as many more I thinck crowded 
 in of our own ffrds. which was not prudent, but 
 construed the effect of affection, and honest Jeremiah 
 Grimshaw was pticulery showed to the King, and 
 gave him a reverend bow, wch the King was 
 pleased to returne againe. We had ruff work at 
 our meeting sometimes, but at last concluded pretty 
 easy. I am wth dear love, as also is my wifes, 
 from thy old and constant ffrd. 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 Our dear love to thy Mother. 
 
 ' Probably George Whitehead, died 1722 or 1723. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS i 
 
 To Sr. John Rodes Barrontt 
 
 att Balber Hall 
 near Chesterfield 
 
 Derbyshire. 
 
 03 
 
 London the 24th of — 1719- 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — It lookes as if our ancient ac- 
 quaintance was almost forgotten. I had renewed it 
 before, to have condoled wth thee on thy late Exer- 
 cises, but that being a subject that would perhaps 
 have renewed greife, I knew not but silence might 
 be best — Yet as thou art a man sensible of these 
 uncertainties, it must be the less surprize, especially 
 on the part of thy dear Mother whome Providence 
 afforded for thy comfort to a good old age — 
 
 I wish, if it had been but for thy Diversion, thou 
 would have taken a journey to this place, to have 
 been amongst thy ffriends — I put so great a value 
 upon thy conversation, that it would have been very 
 acceptable to me, and have often been troubled, that 
 for these latter years, thou hast so much declined 
 comeing up. I am so blessed wth a wife whose con- 
 versation thou wd thinck so agreeable, that thou wd 
 alow, I have made a good Choice ; the consideration 
 of the mercy to me is worthy to be commorated with 
 a thanckfull heart — Through the same hand of Pro- 
 vidence, also, my health is renewed to me. I grow 
 to fatt ; and stirring being good to preserve my 
 health, the worthey, honest Doctor was always press- 
 ing me to rideing, and for some time, I have wanted 
 a good horse or mare, and have used great endea- 
 vours to procure one, but to no purpose. I have 
 
I04 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 thought often of thee as the fittest person to help 
 me, but was unwilling to be troublesome : But 
 being now in a straight, I make bold, according to 
 former freedoms, to intreat thee to help me. He 
 must be strong and wd not be for one above, rather 
 under fourteen hands. I value goings more than 
 shape. Trot and Walke is all I want of a horse ; 
 the trot easey^ As to price, I leave it from six to 
 twelve pounds. Yet not to limmit thee neither. 
 Altho it should be more if thou thinck it to my 
 advantage. So soon as thou can, wd be acceptable, 
 the time coming on that riding may be pleasant — I 
 am with hearty respects in much affection, thy 
 assured ffriend, 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 W° thou sees thy sister or Cor: ^ my kinde love 
 is to them — 
 
 To Sr. John Rodes Barnt 
 at Barlborough Hall 
 
 near Chesterfield 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 20th of— 1721. 
 mo 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — Our freedom in this way has of 
 late years been almost forgotten, yet I hope from no 
 declension of love. I am sure not in the least on my 
 part. But haveing now a good oppertunity of revive- 
 ing it, shall take It upon the earliest occation — Last 
 night the Lords passed our bill for a more easie 
 affirmation without any alteration, but as it came to 
 
 ' Cornelius Heathcote. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 105 
 
 them from the house of Commons — In the lower 
 house it went threw with much ease and little 
 opposition, but in the upper it was attended with 
 strong debates. Thou may give a gess what sort of 
 men were most likely to oppose us ; some of whome 
 stood it out to the last, though others, and I think 
 the greatest number too, favourd our bill. But 
 notwithstanding all their strennuous efforts, our 
 ffriends in the House upon every question carried 
 it by a majority of 3 or 4 to one. Their heartiness 
 to serve us ought not to be forgotten. The constant 
 attendance of noble men to serve us that are in com- 
 parison but a few to the rest of the nation, is owing 
 to a Providentiall hand that has made way in the 
 breast of the K . . . g whose influence, to be sure, 
 strengthned the Mi . . y, that in a regard thereto, 
 as well as their own good inclinations, did exert their 
 utmost to remove that away that has long been 
 uneasy and prejudiciall to us — Had I time, and was 
 it propper to touch upon speeches that were made 
 pro and con in this affaier, it would be, I doubt not, 
 very entertaining, but as it scarcely is, I shall forbear 
 — Yet I may hint one thing a great Ld said : " We 
 had for abt 26 years promised them to releive them 
 from Oathes, and therefore they were in our debt, 
 as the preamble of the first bill did set forth ; for 
 
 what was granted them then was an O , so they 
 
 now in his oppinion ought to be releived &c.' 
 
 Upon the whole the favour given us is so great a 
 mercy, that as a Society we ought to be humbley 
 thanckfuU, and be careful we abuse not the use of it 
 — To conclude, our ffriends satisfied with the old 
 affirmation, in a most hearty and prudent manner 
 
io6 A qUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 assisted to set the solicitation on foot, spared no pain 
 to press it on and never left it untill it was crowned 
 wth success. The cheif of them were John Gurney/ 
 Joseph Wyeth,^ Andr. Pitt/ J. Gee/ and John 
 Eccleston/ though mentioned last, was not the least 
 in his zealous endeavours. Many more contributed 
 thereto, so that we went on in a general harmoney ; 
 and a good disposition seemes to be cultivated 
 among us — 
 
 I have now to add that in the course of our 
 Solicitation of late espeasially, I, wth some others, 
 were desired by the Dukes of Newcastle ^ and King- 
 ston ' to recommend to thy care their two ffriends 
 the Lord How* and Sr. Robt Sutton^ for Knights 
 for the County of Nottingham. The latter spoke 
 to me twice that I would mind it early — What 
 interest thou can make them 1 hope thou willt 
 not be wanting in, for if ever a people were under 
 an obligacion of Grattitude, we are ; and wth sub- 
 mission, it is not a time to be indifferent in ex- 
 pressing it — -Get some leading men to worke heartily, 
 
 '■ John Gurney, 1688-1741, son of a Quaker merchant of Norwich ; 
 at twenty-two became a minister, and devoted himself chiefly to the 
 disciphne of the Society of Friends. 
 
 ^ Joseph Wyeth, of London, wrote, amongst other things, a con- 
 tinuation of the life of J. Ellwood. 
 
 3 Andrew Pitt lived at Hampstead. Voltaire stayed at his house. 
 
 ' Presumably Joshua Gee, of London ; wrote several books on the 
 subject of Trade. 
 
 ' Merchant of London ; is believed to have left the Friends. 
 
 ° Thomas Pelham Hollis, duke of Newcastle-upon-Tyne (1693- 
 1768). 
 
 ' Evelyn Pierrepont, created duke of Kingston 171 5. 
 
 * Probably the 2nd viscount Howe, father of Admiral Lord 
 Howe. 
 
 " Robert Sutton, 2nd baron Lexington, of Averham Park, Notts. 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 107 
 
 for if noble Lords had been supine, we had lost 
 our cause. Andrew Pitt gives his respect to thee, 
 take the same from me and my dearest, that am 
 wth all the freedom, of an Old fFrd thine as ever, 
 
 Henr: Gouldney. 
 
 To Sr. John Rodes Barontt. 
 
 at Balber Hall 
 Near Chesterfeild 
 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London the 19th of — 1725. 
 mo 
 
 My dear and worthey Ffrd, — Long silence 
 and absence psonally hath not lessned the great 
 Esteeme and value I have for thee, for the same 
 motives to love remaines, and are as fresh in my 
 memory as ever. I am also glad to hear thou art 
 pretty well in health. I wish thou wert both able 
 and willing to make us visits as usual, and I am 
 thincking of inducements thereto, I should some- 
 what kindle a desier, as near relations, and many 
 near ffriends tho some are dropt off and some that 
 remaine are in their declineing age — 
 
 I have had it long since in my minde to write 
 thee abt our worthy deceased fFrd: W. P: whose 
 workes are now in the press, and what we want is 
 some full accot. of his convincement, exercise there- 
 upon, and hard treatment from his father ; his 
 steadiness notwithstanding, altho mixt with severe 
 sufferings and imprisonments. I am the more press- 
 ing upon thee, knowing thy near affection to his 
 
io8 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 memorey, who loved to sit under his discourse, and 
 no doubt have made many good remarks upon some 
 very materiel passages/ I greatly desier, thou willt 
 ingage in it, whither by way of preface, or testimoney 
 concerning him, or in what manner thou shallt se 
 meet, for it is a great pitty, so great, so good and so 
 extreordinary man should go off unobserved, that 
 wheiT liveing in so excellent a maner, revived the 
 memorey, workes and fruits of many that he survived. 
 I know there are some, yet liveing, that have good 
 will ; but if thou willt reflect a little, thou willt finde 
 but a very few capeable of such worke ; but I know 
 of one, wd thou but give me leave to name him ; 
 that best knew him and made the greatest remarkes 
 upon him and phaps read him more, so that the pson 
 I am writeing to is the most accomplisht for the worke 
 and his happieness of stile more agreable to the 
 deceased. His whole workes are to be printed, and 
 much of it being controversy, I have used my interest 
 to perswade the psons concerned to make the last 
 volume to be that, for tho that is excellently well 
 don, yet manny dont like to read such writelngs, 
 and mixeing it wth another nature may disapoint the 
 reader, so not answer the mind of such. Another 
 difficulty I ly under is that, in his more early con- 
 troversy, having to do with unfair adversarys, that 
 very egregiously had abused the simple meaning 
 of our ffrds, as well as falseley charged them, after 
 he had detected their abuse, he in a warme zeale, 
 
 1 There is no trace of John Rodes having edited Penn's entire 
 works. This was done by Besse and also by Dr. Fothergill. John 
 Rodes edited a small book entitled " Fruits of a Father's Love," 
 published in 1726. 
 
BARLBROUGH HALL IN THE i8th CENTURY 
 
 BARLBROUGH HALL, NORTH FRONT 
 
HENRY GOULDNEY'S LETTERS 109 
 
 severely censures them espeacially Hicks, fFaldoe,^ 
 Jenner &c. which as the leaveing it out, is no part 
 of his Argument, so I thincke it no injury to the 
 matter to drop some of them. But I have not yet 
 gained that point — John Whiteing ^ had laboured 
 much in compileing something for the press ; but he 
 went on another bottume, than wt is now agreed to, 
 for we print the whole, and his was supposeing it not 
 to be. Besides some imperfect accot of his life, he 
 tooke notice of the several bookes he wrote wth his 
 remarkes thereon, and also all the prefaces to his 
 bookes. The whole tooke up abt 4 quier of pap. 
 Jos : Skidmore ^ haveing had that before him, tooke 
 much the same method and the fFriends appointed to 
 the reading it, laid them both asside — I have heard 
 thou hast a manuscript of his abt his children * wch I 
 hope thou willt forward that it may go into the first 
 volum. I have been larger than my intention wch 
 pray excuse. What I write is somewhat undigested 
 being just now come out of the Countrey and have 
 not time to mend it. Must now end wth dear old 
 true love, thy constant ffrd. 
 
 Henry Gouldney. 
 
 ' Reference to opponents of the early Quaker teaching. 
 ' John Whiteing, Quaker writer, died 1722. 
 ' Jos. Skidmore, of Rickmansworth, Quaker writer. 
 * " Fruits of a Father's Love," see p. 107. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 
 
 1694—1703 
 
These 
 To Sr. John Roades 
 
 At Balborough-hall. 
 To be left at Wm Storrs 
 
 In Chesterfield, Darbs. 
 
 London 27th of 7 mo 1694. 
 Dear Friend, — I need but a small share of 
 charity to remit the offence of thy supposed 
 omission. I did not resent it amiss, for considered 
 by thy absence, the Inspection of affairs at home 
 might have occasioned a longer silence. Though 
 desireous to hear from thee, I speedily intended 
 to have wrote to thee, if thine had not yet arrived ; 
 but receiving thine hath laid the greater obligation. 
 I am sensible of thy cordiall love and respect to 
 thy Friends here, and my self particulerly, and 
 though we are remote from thee, which I could 
 also heartily wish otherwise, yet let us be near 
 in affections and Brotherly Love, for, Reall Friends 
 to have the previlege of frequent Conversation, is 
 ■ ■ a happiness perhaps not duely considered, but by 
 those who want it. For as much as Providence 
 hath not permited us the advantage, let us be 
 thankfuU for what we doe Injoy, improveing it 
 to the best ends we can ; Blesed be God, we 
 know measurably the Fellowship that is in the 
 Truth and the injoyments we have of one another 
 therein, when personaly absent. And that we can 
 in part expres our minds by letters, for I have 
 
114 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 reaped great benifit from those whom God hath 
 made livingly sensible and experiencers of his work 
 in their hearts. Their lives have not only been 
 Instructive to my understanding, but hath also 
 been Refreshing to my Soull, because of the 
 vertue and savour of Life accompaniing them, so 
 that they have been truly benificiall to me both 
 as man and Christian, — Dear Friend, since we 
 parted, I have often remembered thee with much 
 more love than I can express, and frequent desiers 
 unto God on thy behalf, The very repeating renews 
 it upon me, with eyes full of tears, proceeding 
 from a reverent and thankfuU Sence in my Soull 
 of the great Love of God revealed to a few, 
 who are but as an handfuU to the harvest which 
 shall be gathered from all corners of the earth 
 (I say), in a Sence therof my heart is tendered, 
 that we are made partakers together of the Glory 
 and unspeakable Riches which was promised to 
 be made known in the Gentiles. ... I thought 
 not to have so inlarged, but when I began to 
 write, felt great Love and warmth in my heart, 
 and as it arose, I suffered it to proceed to this 
 length, hoping the reading hearof will not be 
 tedious to thee. May it also produce good effects 
 to mee, that I may receive Some Lines from 
 thee, for I place among my cheifest treasure the 
 good epistles of my friends filled with good advice 
 and Love, viz. the Love of God, a great Theme. 
 When we have spent all our days in admiration 
 therof the time is too short. Tis a work fit for 
 Eternity. 
 
 Remember me kindly to thy Brother Hethcott. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 115 
 
 I wish him a dayly increase of the experience and 
 growth in the Truth, he is called, with many- 
 more, to be witnesses of, before men ; and the 
 number of those (if faithfull) God will account 
 a kind of first fruites to himself in this last dis- 
 pensation. It would be great pity the glory of 
 this world, or love of other things should ever 
 be able to separate any from the blessings injoyed 
 in keeping faithfull to the present Truth. My 
 respects to John Graton if at home. Brother 
 Thomas presents his to thee, and Dear Friend 
 let me Conclude with the same who am assuredly 
 thy affectionate Friend and Brother 
 
 John Tomklins.^ 
 
 I have often thought of those papers at Wor- 
 minghurst, and wish my Capacity may outwear 
 thy opinion thou hast of me to perform a task 
 so difficult as to reduce them into exact order, 
 however I shall not be wanting in my endeavours 
 when oppertunity permits, my own pleasure and 
 advantage in peruseing such excelent tracts will 
 prompt me to it, as wel as the designe of generall 
 Service. Our worthy Friend ^ . . . there yet ; he 
 is expected here next week, and suddenly after, 
 designs for Bristoll. He has been about home 
 ever since thou left him. That County has a 
 large share of his Company, while we have some- 
 times wished for it. Thomas Ellwoods ^ answear 
 
 • John Tomkins, Quaker annalist, died at Maryland Point, 
 Stratford, in Essex, 1706, aged about forty-three years. 
 2 William Penn. 
 ' Thomas Ellwood. See note, p. 91. 
 
ii6 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 to G. K.i and R. Hannays^ papers are come out. 
 But that I have not thy leave, I would lend thee 
 one by the Post, but I doubt it would cost thee 
 a shilling eighteen pence. It is well done. The 
 old Williams, when they heard it was in the press, 
 they and G. K. strove hard to obstruct its appearing 
 abroad, and to effect there designe, gave the 2 days 
 morning meeting, as well as the meeting for 
 sufferings, severall contentious visits ; but their 
 attempts were vain. If thou art willing to give 
 me orders, when any thing remarkable comes forth, 
 let me know thy mind and what carier I shall 
 send by, shall be very ready to serve thee in 
 that or any thing els I am capable. Thine 
 
 J.T. 
 
 For Sir John Rodes. 
 
 To be left at Henry Hickworths at Sleeford 
 In 
 
 Lincolnshiere. 
 
 London 20 lo mo 1694. 
 
 Dear and esteemed Freind, — ■! heartily respect 
 and love thee with unfeigned love because of the near- 
 nes of spirit the Lord hath brought us into, by the 
 operation of his mighty Power, whereby he sub- 
 dueth all things to himself, and bringeth to pass 
 whatsoever he will. . . . Thine was very acceptable 
 
 1 George Keith. See note, p. 57. 
 
 2 Robert Hannay, of America. Took the part of George Keith 
 in the controversy about Pennsylvania. Wrote a preface to the 
 tract called "A true account of the Proceedings, Sence, and 
 advice of the people called quaker." 1694. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 117 
 
 to me, not hearing, began to doubt whether mine 
 reached thy hands, because I sent it to Darbysher, 
 not Lincolnshere. Dear Freind, I am troubled at 
 the expression I saw in thine, that I had heard sooner 
 from thee, but that thine comes so short, it will be 
 no ballance to mine, I am of another opinion, what 
 have we but what we receive ; Brotherly Love and 
 prayers one for another will ballance accounts between 
 us. It is well, if we can be helpfuU. I desiere all- 
 wayes to be kept in this mind, that we may injoy, 
 though outwardly remote, the benifit of true Fellow- 
 shipp. What are we without the Lord and the dayly 
 assistance of his spirit ? If he hide his face but a 
 very litell time we are sad ! 
 
 As to my seeing thy lines, I had it in my Pocket, 
 as thou thought and cautioned me of H. G/ Thou 
 knows he has such Power over his frends (as I 
 know none has the like) because of his loving dis- 
 position. I could not withstand him. . . . As . . . 
 (illegible) defect in thine is the occasion of thy re- 
 servednes, so it ought also to restrain me from 
 exposeing it, and should, but to him, who is so 
 intimate with us both, for what thou was pleased 
 to say therin, they are too high charactors of me. 
 If there had been anything I had conceived a secret, 
 should been more cautious, for I am allways carefuU 
 to keep the rules of Friendship. However, to re- 
 move all straitnes and that thou may be free to write 
 thy mind, shal for the future observe thy directions 
 both to thy own and mine too, being wiling to con- 
 tinue Coresponding, being satisfied of the Integrity 
 of thy heart to walk in faithfulnes and simplicity of 
 1 Henry Gouldney. 
 
ii8 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 the Truth, refuseing the familiarities of the world 
 and embraceing a retired Life the beter to Injoy 
 communion with God, whose presence produces 
 more solid Comfort in one hour than can be found 
 dureing many years otherwise. How often have I 
 wished for but a few weeks of the many thou injoys 
 to be sequestered from business and Crowds of men. 
 I beleeve I could employ it to my satisfaction, but I 
 am content, my lot at present is otherwise cast, and 
 I have no cause to complain. The Lord is good, 
 blessed be his Name. 
 
 Touching G. K. about 6 weeks past has quite left 
 our meetings, resorting to Harp Lane, but none 
 that I hear of note goes after him. Those, who was 
 so troublesome in pleading for him dont think fit 
 to follow him thither. As to his challenge of T. 
 EUwood, G. K. is a master in faction, and knows 
 what will take with the mobb. No doubt to see 
 the quakers gather a thousand or two together 
 openly to dispute about differences among them- 
 selves would highly gratifie them, besides, accord- 
 ing to my oppinion, that is not the efFectuall way to 
 inform People, seeing he begun and spread the dif- 
 ference abroad in Print, and none could hear that 
 Conference, but who was present, except they print 
 the narrative of it, and perhaps there will be as 
 much diference about the Impartial relation thereof 
 and the controversie it self. If so, how will this 
 prevent the writing of many books .'' and he pre- 
 tends T. E.'s ^ reply to G. K.'s = last answear is in the 
 Press, near finished. I understand he has handled 
 him well again, and this passage, no doubt, per- 
 ^ Thomas EUwood. ^ George Keith. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 119 
 
 ticulerly, though I forgot to inquire what his 
 answear was to this. As to his Collection of the 
 unguarded expressions etc. in friend's books, I dont 
 see much cause to fear him therein. If W. P. G. W. 
 or other friends, in there treating of the Resur- 
 rection, have not spoken so fully of the Resurrection 
 of the Body, chiefly aiming at the spirituall part, as 
 most nessesary to the Resurrection of the souU 
 from Sin and death spiritually, in order to our 
 Body's riseing beter hereafter, I dont see that can 
 be a crime — Seeing, not speaking so largly as others 
 would have them, but denying any Article of Truth, 
 is the Sin, and if he should bring forth his Collec- 
 tion, I beleeve 'twill in the end (though evily de- 
 signed by him) prove to the advantage of Truth, 
 for it will give occasion for those doctrines to be 
 more fully explained, which will tend to the farther 
 opening Peoples understanding. Thou sees, I am 
 still long, don't blame me, thy good leter is the 
 cause, stirring me up a fresh. As Iron sharpeneth 
 Iron, so doth the face of a man his friend. I am 
 in much Love and Sincereity thy dear Friend and 
 Brother in the Truth 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 If thou put me out of Office of buying books 
 for thee, because of that smal present I made 
 thee, I think the penalty will be greater than the 
 crime. 
 
 H. G. is become an Auther. I advised Anthony to 
 send thee one of them. It is a stroke upon Geo: 
 White and old Saperate. I understand he is re- 
 plying, so I hope H. G. will not want work now. 
 
I20 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 haveing taken up the Gantlet, cannot in honner put 
 up his sword, till he has made his adversary cry 
 Quarter. 
 
 R. Barow,! R. Wardell,^ S. Jenings^ and Tho. 
 Ducket * with others are in the downs with the fleet 
 onwards of their voyage to Pensilvania. Leters 
 from there came this week says Tho: Loyd^ is 
 dead. 
 
 There is one thing more I must acquaint thee of, 
 and had done it in my last, but there was not room. 
 I understand H. G. has been so inteligeble to give 
 the account of it already. I intend, if the Lord 
 permit, to take a wife, and have proposed it to the 
 meetings twice, and intend the 3d time next 2d day. 
 It is the Person at J. H.'s whom I told thee of, the 
 report I heard is short to what I find, since ac- 
 quainted with her. I am well satisfied in my pro- 
 ceeding, earnestly desiering we may be directed to 
 finish in the fear of God and to our mutual comfort. 
 It will be about 6 weeks before we accomplish, and 
 I should be very glad to have thee one of our 
 witnesses. By that time the winter will be pretty 
 well over. I desere thee be not so long between 
 the receipt of this and thy answear as before ; thy 
 
 '■ Robert Barrow, born in Lancashire, travelled much in America 
 and died there in 1697 ; buried in Philadelphia. 
 
 ' Robert Warden, of Sunderland, 1635-1696, travelled extensively 
 as a preacher in Great Britain and America. 
 
 ^ Samuel Jennings, of Bucks, afterwards of New Jersey. 
 
 * Thos. Duckett, one of the first settlers in the neighbourhood 
 of Philadelphia, and was prominent in religious and political life ; 
 died 1699. 
 
 ' Thos. Lloyd was convinced of Quakerism in Wales. He 
 emigrated to Pennsylvania at the request of Wm. Penn, and be- 
 came a prominent Friend in the public life of that province. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 121 
 
 lines are very acceptable to me, much more thy 
 Company. We have every week, I may say, almost 
 every Post, accounts of the extraordenary service 
 our dear and worthy Frend hath in the Western 
 Parts. He has been lately at Exeter and there 
 abouts. At Exeter, there was, by computation, 
 about 4 or 5000 People at one meeting. He is 
 expected at BristoU again on next first day, if 
 Frends doe not draw him to Waymouth etc. after 
 there, a week about Bath, and then homewards 
 through Gloscester Oxford etc. It is great satis- 
 faction to us, God hath heard the many Prayers 
 that were put up for him in his Captivity and 
 answered them, that his adversaries are dis-apointed, 
 and he is covered with honner, because of the Praise 
 he brings to the name of God and his Blessed Truth. 
 Many speaks well thereof his Report coupled with 
 fear and a hevenly Conversation, while those who 
 wait for his hurt are dis-apointed and cloathed with 
 shame. We expect him home in 3 or 4 weeks time. 
 Give my hearty love to thy Brother Thomas Heath- 
 cot and receive Brother Thomas Respects to thy 
 self. I am Thine, 
 
 JT. 
 
122 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 For Sr. John Rodes. 
 
 To be left at 
 William Storrs in 
 
 Chesterfield 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London lo. 4th mo. 1695. 
 
 Esteemed Friend, — It was a dis-apointment to 
 me not seeing thee before thou went, but had no 
 certainty, nor did beleeve thou wouldst goe that 
 morning, yet lest it should be, came soon after thou 
 went from H. G. and suppose could have overtaken 
 thee, but knew not what Inn thou took Coach at, 
 neither could the young men tell me. I am sory 
 thy departure was so sudden, in my opinion 'twas 
 not so agreable to thy Charector to be so quick, that 
 none of thy Friends could bid the farewell. I find, 
 some resents it, not so kind as I would have them, 
 for I beleeve, thou Intended no slight upon thy 
 Friends, thy man's stay with the horses was the 
 reason thereof. I had the 2 Ginneys by the Porter 
 from the Inn, and discoursed H. G. about thy 
 board. He was unwilling to take any thing, 
 looking upon this Stay but as a vissit, and thou was 
 welcome to his entertainment, but says, if he took 
 mony, he intended it should be when thou wouldst 
 take thy abode at his house for some considerable 
 time, as a whole winter etc., but lest thou should not 
 be pleased with him, he received them, though he 
 thinks it too much. 
 
 Busines prevented my writeing sooner and excuse 
 my delay. Seeing thou had committed this affaire 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 123 
 
 to me, suppose thou expected an account before 
 thou wrote. I hope shall hear from thee suddenly 
 and of thy safe arrivall at home and that thy 
 relations were well in thy absence. I shall now only 
 add concerning G. K. since yearly meeting, he has 
 published three things ; the first thou saw called the 
 Narrative of the proceedings of the meeting with 
 him the list of the errors of W. P., G. W., and 
 J. W. which he threatened in the Title Page of the 
 Narrative is now come forth consisting of mangled 
 Citations out of their books Concerning the Body, 
 Blood etc. of Jesus Christ, together with many base 
 and undue reflections upon friends, and within this 
 few days the 3d caled an answear to the Quakers 
 Nameless Bull given forth against G. K. stufed with 
 as much Gall as he could fill his pen with. It is 
 left to T. Ellwood to Continue Answears to him 
 upon all. Friends haue drawn up somewhat briefly 
 in reply to the Querys proposed to the yearly 
 meeting by the B of L's chaplain. They are not 
 yet delivered. 
 
 Dear Friend this I think is what offers at present 
 with the remembrance of true Love and Respect to 
 thee in that near Fellowship of the Truth, wherein 
 we feel our hearts Comforted one in another by the 
 divine Influences of the Spirit of Truth when our 
 Bodyes are at great distance, I pray God keep us 
 near unto him in the dayly exersise of our hearts 
 and minds in this Blessed Truth and heauenly Gift 
 of Grace, and therein shall dayly Injoy his Presence 
 and Constant unity together, and feel our hearts 
 opened to behold more and more of the excellency 
 and Glory that is in the Truth and the Dispised 
 
124 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 followers thereof whilst those who are in prejudice 
 and enmity are all way es complaining, haveing lost 
 the glory in themselves, conclude it is departed 
 from others also. I am thy True and FaithfuU 
 Friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 My wife desiers me to mention her Love to 
 thee. J. T. 
 
 For Sr. John Rodes. 
 
 To be left at William Storrs 
 In Chesterfield 
 
 Darbyshiere. 
 
 London the 24. 7 mo. 1695. 
 
 Dear Friend, — In the Love of the Truth, the 
 Lord hath revealed in our Day I send thee tender 
 Salutation, feelling my heart unto thee my dear 
 Friend to whom I have more respect, than am 
 willing to express this way. I received thy letter 
 above a mo. since, thy kindnes therin expressed is 
 great and Certainly calls for sutable returns from 
 me in a double respect, not only to thee for thy 
 Love and open heartednes so freely to invite me 
 to thy house, but to myself also that I may walk 
 worthy of the regard Friends had to me. . . . Thy 
 desiere, as well, the great advantage would accrue 
 to my self by the company and oppertunities 
 obtainable by our Dear Friend W. P. are such great 
 Inducements, that I cannot but embrace it. That 
 saying of our Lord hath had effect upon my dis- 
 position, especially in Religious Company who- 
 soever shall compell thee to goe with him a mile. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 125 
 
 goe with him twain, that I think, may say without 
 vanity, am not behind many in that respect. But 
 we who have but small concerns of trade in the 
 world, it must be sometimes attended, though have 
 often denyed my self of very profable advantages 
 for the sake of good Company and good Meetings. 
 But the posture of my affairs lye so at present, and 
 Indeed have been so all this year, occasioned by the 
 death of the great person at Court,^ that I have been 
 debarred much of the happiness I have formerly 
 Injoyed, and I cannot see but I must deny my self 
 this allso — 
 
 I cannot give a perticuler account, when our dear 
 Friend intends his Journey your way. Suppose 
 it will not be long. He went last 7th day to a 
 Quarterly meeting in Kent, about 50 mils from 
 London, returns back to the Citty about 4th or 5th 
 day next. H. G. is with him, I could wished, with 
 others as well as himself. It may be before winter 
 approach farr, but things often interpose to his 
 hinderance in many good purposes. I hope thou 
 wilt not imprison thy self all this winter in that 
 Corner,^ but let us have the benefit of thy good 
 Company. We should be glad of it, and thou 
 knows, thou art wellcome to us. R. Barclay is in 
 Town and hath appeared in diverse of our meetings 
 of note (but not large). I have not heard him my 
 self but hear hopefully of him from some that have. 
 Perhaps thou hast had oppertunity before us as he 
 came up. Brother Thomas desires me to give his 
 
 ' Queen Mary, queen regnant, wife of William III., died Dec. 
 28, 1694. 
 
 " Barlborough. 
 
126 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Respect to thee. The Day desiered by him is 
 approaching, it is next 5th Day come week, which 
 as I take it, will be the 4th of next mo. that is fixed 
 for the accomplishment of his marriage George 
 Keith gives us litell trouble since yearly meeting. 
 Not long since, he was a broad and at Reading and 
 Wickham, and as far as Marlborough. It was said 
 he intended to Bristoll but went not. 'Twas thought 
 hardly any Friend there would received him or give 
 him Lodging. Thomas Ellwoods answear to his 
 pamphlets are come forth, and are well done. Dear 
 John, let me hear from thee and also see thee this 
 winter. It will be a good oppertunity when the 
 Friend ^ goes to your parts to come up with him. 
 
 1 beseech thee dont use reserves, but be open 
 and free with him. I suppose thou knowes my 
 meaning. He intends not further than Darbyshire, 
 and his stay will not be long. He has defered his 
 Journey to Ireland, till towards the spring. Dear 
 Friend with dear Love conclude. My wife is out of 
 Town I know her Love is to thee. Thy Assured 
 faithfull Friend, 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 The Turkey Fleet long expected is come in ; the 
 marchants have had dismall loses lately by the two 
 Indian ships richly laden, and II Barbadoes men and 
 
 2 Pensilevain ships which the French ^ took, besides 
 about 220 vesells lost, some Laden, but most Lite 
 Colliers, spoyled by the late Storm of Wind. 
 
 My dear love to John Gratton. 
 
 ' Wm. Penn. 
 
 ^ War with France, begun 1689, ended by the Peace of 
 Ryswick, 1697. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 127 
 
 For Sir John Rodes. 
 
 To be left at 
 William Storrs 
 
 In Chesterfield 
 
 (In Darbyshire). 
 
 London 22d 8 mo 1695. 
 
 Esteemed Ffriend, — Notwithstanding I sent thee 
 
 a letter a mo agoe and received no answear since, 
 
 my love is such, I can make two returns for one 
 
 kindness, and more, if occasion. My last gave 
 
 the reason why I beleeved if dear W. P. had come 
 
 into your parts, I could not come with him — Now 
 
 I dont know w" you will see him. If not suddenly, 
 
 I doubt not this winter. Suppose need not tell the 
 
 reason why I think so, beleeving thou hath heard 
 
 w' work he is engaged in at BristoU. Perhaps he 
 
 may give you a visit from thence, for I understand 
 
 the expectation of the People in your parts (the 
 
 world, as well as friends) if it be not answeared by 
 
 him, may give them that offence as may not easily 
 
 be removed. I know not how to show dislike to 
 
 w' he doth : he is a man to whom I have given 
 
 preference in my Respect and Esteeme to any I 
 
 know, therefore must be excused, if am spareing 
 
 of writing against his present proceedings.^ Many 
 
 here are not satisfied with the object for a help 
 
 meet, tho she may be a person unexceptionable 
 
 for some other (perhaps thy self if thou had 
 
 thought so). His circumstances considered every 
 
 way, severall of his nearest frends in affection doe 
 
 not think so of it, as I suppose he doth ! but it 
 
 1 See Henry Gouldney's letter of the same date. Friends were 
 averse to Penn's second marriage. 
 
128 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 may be objected by some, should not every man 
 have the priviledge to choose his own wife. So it 
 must be left, hopeing that the Lord hath been with 
 him, and signally appeared on his behalf in many 
 respects, so in this w'"" is none of the least affairs of 
 his life, he will so work by his Divine Providence, 
 that if it will not prove to the honner of Truth and 
 his benefit, it may not come to pass. I would be 
 willing to leave the issue thereof to this effect — 
 Thomas EUwood hath answeared G. K.'s pamphlets 
 published about the yearly meeting time, and G. K. 
 hath lately published in print those Qieries brought 
 to the last yearly meeting by the Bp of London's ^ 
 chp. (Chaplain) and frends' answears to them, with 
 Citations out of some frends bookes w"*" he would 
 Insinuate to the reader, contradicts the late answears 
 upon the same subject. The title is Hypocrisy and 
 Error detected in the late Answear of G. Whitehead 
 to his Brethren to some Qlerys &c. He seems in 
 his last pamphlet to bend his malice chiefly agst 
 G. W. . . . 
 
 Favour me with some Lines and let me have thy 
 Company as soone as thou please. Dear frend I am 
 in much sincerity and respect Assuredly thy loving 
 and faithful frend. 
 
 Jno Tomkins. 
 
 Excuse bad writing, I am at present not well. 
 The french have taken 3 East India Rich Ships 
 more lately. They was all they lookd for this 
 season. It is a dismal loss to them as well the 
 nation in Generall. 
 
 ' Henry Compton, consecrated Bishop of London 1675. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 129 
 
 For S'' John Rodes. 
 
 To be left at W^ Storrs 
 Shop-keeper In 
 
 Chester feild 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 Guildford 16 of 2d mo/96. 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — I have many times of late 
 thought of thee, some times with some uneasi- 
 ness of mind, when I consider thy silence. What 
 should be the occasion thereof, I know not. I 
 have reflected on my self if (I) have given thee 
 any cause. When I consider thou also withheld 
 writeing to H. G., nor indeed any of thy ac- 
 quaintance that I know can give any account of 
 thee, I forbear to charge my self. It is I suppose 
 6 weeks since I sent a few lines to refresh thy 
 memory of us by R. Needham, an other I sent 
 thee some weeks before that, but no answear 
 Thy last to me, I suppose, is above 6 mo, since 
 which, there is my 3d or 4th letter to thee — 
 
 D"^ flFriend, I should be unwilling to Impose 
 upon the fredome of any of my iFriends, but leave 
 them to the liberty they find in them selves to 
 write ; but when I remember the desiere thou 
 had expressed to hear from us, and thy willing- 
 ness to continue the Correspondence begun, I 
 hope, to mutuall advantage, am ready to con- 
 clude thou are not well ! 
 
 Let us hear how it is then in two lines. If art 
 
 so busy can write no more, what I have said above, 
 
 I 
 
I30 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 will I hope be sufecient demonstration that the 
 same love remains still with me on thy behalf; 
 and be assured, it is so, I am unwilling to say 
 any more of that, beleiving thou knows it — I shall 
 now tell of the occasion of being at this place- 
 Here is a good number of thy perticuler friends 
 and acquaintance, viz. J. Vaughton,^ J. ffeild, S. 
 Waldenfeld, H. Gouldney, P. Marks, R. Barclay, 
 F. Stamper, W. Robinson and divers more upon 
 a double account, for we meet both at the house 
 of Mirth and Mourning ; the one Is to be witness 
 this day to the marraige of W. Bingley with widow 
 Hannah Smith of this place. Last night arrived 
 here the Corps of Springet Penn ^ in its passage 
 to Buckingham, there to be Interred tomorrow 
 at Jordans by his mother. Our dear frend W. P. 
 accompanys the Corps with his wife, his Son, and 
 Daughter, and ffather Callowhill — After (the) mar- 
 riage, we made towards Windsor in order to be 
 at the Interment tomorrow noon. This is an 
 occasion of grt sorrow to our frend, but it is his 
 portion to have wormwood mingled with his drink. 
 The Deceased was the most beloved of his Children, 
 if can be. He intends soon after this to be at 
 Bristoll, to be at yearly meeting there, and after- 
 wards to yearly meeting at London. I hope shall 
 see thee here before then, and if art willing to 
 accept of Quarters at Bro: Tom's, I doubt not 
 but he will be glad of thy Company — He has 
 
 ' John Vaughton, of Gloucestershire ; died 1696. 
 
 ^ Springett Penn, the dearly loved son of William Penn, by his 
 first wife, Gulielma Springett. His father wrote a little book, 
 " Tribute to the Memory of Springett Penn." 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKTNS 131 
 
 took a house in Cannon Street, near Clements 
 Lane. I have divers things to Informe thee of, 
 but let me know first if this be acceptable, be- 
 fore I inlarge. Meantime, with assurance of con- 
 stant ffrlendship. In that love, w'^'' changeth not, 
 I am thy friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 For Sir John Rodes 
 
 to be left at W™ Storrs 
 Shop-keeper In 
 Chesterfield 
 Darbeyshiere. 
 
 London 26 m/7 1696. 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — Thou art often in my thoughts 
 ... I shall be very glad to see thee here, and 
 so, I know, will others of thy friends, who desiere 
 thy Company this winter in this City. We wonder 
 what thou doth propose by thy, so long, as it 
 were, imprisoning thy self. Are not here more 
 oppertunities, both as to good society and good 
 meetings, and divers other advantages, than thou 
 canst enjoy in the Country ? For my part, I 
 very much desiere to see thee, and had not my 
 wife been so near her time, and that time, w'^'' 
 was most convenient for me to leave my business, 
 I should have given thee a visit. Dear W. P. 
 and his wife is expected next week from Worming- 
 hurst, where she hath been this 3 or 4 m° past. 
 They intend from hence to BristoU. I understand 
 she is towards a litell one. I suppose thou have 
 
132 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 heard of Tho. Musgrave's ^ arrivall from America, 
 by reason his road homeward lay thy way. We 
 understand by leters from Jamaca, that Rob' 
 Barrow," who with Robert Wardell have been 
 almost thro' America, is deceased in Jamaca. He 
 dyed there in the 8th m° about the time his 
 wife dyed in Westmoreland. Dear frd with salu- 
 tation of true and Constant love I remain thy 
 sinceer frd 
 
 John Tomjcins. 
 
 H. Gouldney's dear love is to thee. Favour 
 me with a few lines of thy welfare pr next post, 
 after this reaches thy hands, and if we may expect 
 thee at London this winter — A frd or two of thine 
 have thought of a person to be thy wife, if thou 
 shall think so. She is Young and hath a great 
 deal of mony, and it's beleeved her Parents would 
 be easy to consent — if N. Marks have writ to 
 thee lately, suppose he hath given thee an hint 
 (I forgot to ask him). I mention it, however, be- 
 cause am desierous to see thee well maryed, that 
 thou might enjoy the comforts of that relation, 
 w* by the blessing of God, is certainly the happyest 
 on Earth. J. T. 
 
 My wife desiers to be remembered to thee. 
 Were not the winter so near as it is, for we 
 
 ^ Thomas Musgrave was a native of Yorkshire, and laboured 
 extensively in the work of the ministry ; afterwards settled in 
 Pennsylvania. 
 
 ^ See p. 120. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 133 
 
 have much rain here, and I had but a sutable 
 companion, doe think I should come and see thee, 
 but hope thou wilt now save me the labour. 
 
 J-T. 
 
 For Sir John Rodes to be left 
 
 at William Storr's 
 Shop-keeper 
 
 In Chesterfield 
 Darbeyshere. 
 
 London nth 12th mo 1697. 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — Thy kind leter I received of 
 7.10th mo last . . . Now the sun is approaching 
 nearer, the spring will advance a pace, and we hope 
 to see thee amongst us. Some of thy fFriends are de- 
 sierous to know if thou art inclinable to be at yearly 
 meeting at BristoU. If thou art, it will be an In- 
 ducement for them to meet thee there, and from 
 thence, may come home together to London. Bristoll 
 meeting falls on 22nd 3 mo next, just 3 weeks 
 before London. . . . Let me know thy thoughts of 
 the proposition. If thou consent to it, I shall be 
 more willing to endeavour to go thither, if I have 
 hopes to meet thee there. . . . Our dear friend 
 W. P. has been troubled with bleeding at his nose, 
 which has occasioned the loss of much blood, and 
 confined him to his chamber this 2 weeks, but hope 
 shortly to see him abroad again. His wife, son, and 
 daughter is in Town. He lately inquired of thy 
 welfare, he doubts thou took his letter amiss,^ not 
 
 '■ See Penn's letter, p. 10. 
 
134 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 having heard from thee since. He expressed much 
 good will to thee. . . . Our fFriends delivered an 
 adress to the King^ on behalf of fFriends in this 
 nation, which he kindly received, and was pleased 
 to promise that he would protect them. Thy Bro: 
 was lately in this city. I once had an oppertunity 
 to dine with him at John Barkers. Should have 
 been glad to have seen him oftener, but understood 
 that his affaires lead him mostly to the other end of 
 the Town. My kind love to him. . . . Dear 
 ffriend I am in Reall Respect thy Lo: and assured 
 ffriend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 . . . Our Antient ffriend M. ffox^ is here about 
 town. I wish she had staid in Lancashere or re- 
 turned back soon after she came — I fear, by reason 
 of her age, that she will be lead by her son W" 
 into something or other, which may not be of the 
 best consequence to Truth, nor the quiet of the 
 Church, nor her own honner. This by the by 
 to thee. J. T. 
 
 As a token of my love and Respect to thee, have 
 sent thee 3 dozen of wine, viz. i doz of Canary 
 I Red and i whit wine. For the Conveniency of 
 packing, have put them in two hampers. The 
 Canary is in two doz pint bottles. The carrier left 
 
 1 William III. 
 
 2 Margaret Askew, married first, in 1632, Judge Fell of Swarth- 
 moor, and second George Fox in 1669 ; died in 1702, the eighty- 
 eighth year of her age. Mother of the early Quaker Church in 
 Swarthmoor, the centre of early Quakerism. Works collected 
 and published in 17 10. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 135 
 
 the town this day ; his name is Fretwell, the Inn's 
 the Bell in Chesterfield and I think he said he was 
 the M'' of that Inn. He will be at Chesterfield 
 next 5th day. The carridge is paid and note tyed 
 to the hamper directed to thy self at Balbar Hall. 
 My respects to thy mother unknown, if thou please. 
 
 J-T. 
 
 To Sr. John Rodes 
 
 These 
 
 present 
 
 London 14 2d mo 1698. 
 
 Esteemed Ffriend, — Thine of the 28. 12 mo. 
 last is before me. Thou may justly blame me for 
 my delay. I was often about to write, but have 
 been unwillingly prevented. My respect is such to 
 thee that I would not be guilty of anything that is 
 unkind. . . . Touching the book caled the Sn: 
 (Snake) in the Grass, it is an heap of Rubbish, wch 
 has been gathering this 40 years ; Several parts, yea, 
 most parts, have been answeared again and again. 
 Keith, Penyman,'^ Bug,^ and Crisp ^ have been the 
 
 ' John Pennyman, of London ; born 1628. He was one of the 
 164 Friends who offered "body for body" for the redemption 
 of their friends in prison. See a " Declaration of the present suffer- 
 ings of whom 140 of the People of God called Quakers." 1659. 
 Later seceded from the Quakers and became bitterly opposed to 
 them. 
 
 2 Francis Bugg, see p. 84. 
 
 ' Stephen Crisp, Quaker writer. Born at Colchester 1628. 
 One of the leaders of early Quakerism. Took a prominent part 
 in the controversy with those who seceded from Friends on the 
 question of Discipline. Died 1692. His sermons have been 
 printed many times, and his writings in English and Dutch passed 
 through many editions. 
 
136 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Cheife Labourers in this work, and Charles Lasley/ 
 as I take it, is the M' builder. The men has an 
 indifferent glib still, and the book cheifly consisting 
 of storeys, makes it slip the pleasanter away before 
 the eye of the Reader. And not withstanding that 
 Author's pretence of personall kindness to many 
 Quakers, that book and some others, he has since 
 writ, being plainly to be calculated for the worst of 
 our Enemies to gratifie their prejudice and stir up, if 
 possible, the Powers of the Earth against us, that we 
 may no more be a People. . . . Upon occasion of 
 thy leter, I did lately peruse most of said book and 
 G. W.'s Answear thereunto, I have that book of G. 
 ff. (Fox) also by me, caled the Great Mistery &c., 
 and I find some passages not so wel guarded against, 
 as might have been perticulerly that about the soull 
 of man, in which the Snake &c. takes notice of in 
 page 53 section 7 first Impression. I apprehend 
 that of the Soul's equality, and being Infinit, and a 
 part of God &c. ought to be understood of that 
 Divine breath, or Spirit, wch. God, in the beginning, 
 breathed into the soul of Adam, whereby he became 
 a liveing soul. Tho: the Snake scoffs at W. P. for 
 excuseing g. ff. in these perticulers against J. ffaldoe^ 
 who made the same objections 25 years agoe. Yet 
 what W. P. says is very reasonable, where he 
 undertakes to say for G. ff. that G. ff. understood 
 no more by Equality, than Unity, for God is 
 greater than all ; by infinite, something not finite, 
 or which comes to an end ; or by the Soul's being 
 
 1 Rev. Charles LesIie,author of many books adverse to Quakerism, 
 notably " The Snake in the Grass." 
 
 ^ John Faldo, writer against Quakerism ; died in London i6go. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 137 
 
 without beginning or a part of God, no other than 
 that divine breath of Life, that came out from God, 
 and therefore is of God. See W. P. Invalidity of J. 
 fFaldoe's vindication page 353. And G. W.'- Is to 
 the same purpose in his Antedote to the Snake &c. 
 page 61 and 62, and G. W. in page 61 doth disown 
 that the Quakers doe make their souls of the same 
 substance with God. Therefore, It was disingenious 
 in our Adversary to turn such plain and vulgar 
 expresions (as W. P. calls them) to such ill use, as 
 he doth those of G. fF. But he Is glad to take 
 advantage of every thing to blacken the Quakers. 
 ... I confess If said Auther of the Snake &c. had 
 been more pertlculerly answeard, It had been well, 
 tho. I think that book has had more palnes be- 
 stowed upon it, than it deserves, much of it being 
 made up of old storys, with great mixtures of 
 falshood, many of which, as I have said, are an- 
 sweared. And those wch have any prt of Truth in 
 them, as the wickedness and falshood of any pro- 
 fessing Truth among us, our adversarys knows, 
 that we disown such things. Only the Snake has 
 new licked them over and jumbled them together, 
 to render Truth and ffriends odious. I suppose 
 thou may know that ffriends doth not imply G. W. 
 In this work, but as he has been an Antient writer 
 for ffi-iends, so those books, which come out 
 against us, his name is generally concerned in them, 
 relateing to somewhat which he has writ, so thinks 
 himself more Concerned to vindicate it ; tho I 
 beleeve, were he 20 years younger, he would be 
 fitter for that work ; for those who write Contro- 
 1 George Whitehead. 
 
138 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 versie, should have some mercury, as well as Truth 
 in their Composition. It was proposed to T. 
 EUwood to make a fuller answear to sd Snake, but 
 what he has done, I dont hear. I wish the sence 
 thou has of the use of good Controvertists amongst 
 us to defend the principle of Truth agst its adver- 
 saries would stir up the Gift that is in thee to so 
 good a work. Thy understanding, parts, and stile 
 are good ingredients. It would be a noble imploy- 
 ment for thee, no ways unbecomeing thy quality, 
 but an honnour to it ; and I doubt not, if thou 
 wouldst begin, but in a small Essay of a sheet, 
 by way of Remarks, or a reproofe upon that spirit 
 which lifts up its heel agst Truth, that thou wouldst 
 find thy Talent increase, and thy service therein 
 would be acceptable to the Lord and to his People, 
 and be an occasion for the further opening of thy 
 understanding in the mysterys of the Doctrines of 
 Truth ; so that thy service might not stop there, 
 but thou mightst advance, step by step, to an higher 
 station in the work of the Gospell — ... I under- 
 stand by H. G. that he has also given the account 
 of the convincment of a Person of note.^ He 
 continues in the way of Truth he has begun to 
 walk — he is now in Buckinghamsheir, at his own 
 seate there, — he is comeing boldly to confess Truth 
 before men by an open profFesion therof in the cross 
 to this world ; is frequent at friends meetings there, 
 as he was in the city, and constant with friends in 
 Conversation. T. Elwood he has Respect to, who 
 is helpful! to him. . . Dear ffriend, I hope thou 
 
 ^ Probably Edmund Waller, son of the poet. See H. Gouldney's 
 letters, 1698. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 139 
 
 wilt not suiFer thy Relations to prevent thy comeing 
 hither next yearly meeting. Thou who formerly 
 used to come every year and stay some time with 
 us, not to come once in 3 years, will look unkind. 
 I desiere thee let none hinder thy comeing, if the 
 Lord permit thee life and Health. Dear W. P. 
 left city last 7th day ; he made a visit to Esqir 
 Waller in Buckinghamshere and had a meeting 
 there last ist day. Next day, from thence, onward 
 to Ireland, but to Bristoll first — He did not un- 
 kindly resent thy Silence, tho he would have been 
 glad of a letter from thee ; he desiered me to 
 remember his very kind love unto thee. In very 
 dear love, I am thy constant, faithfuU and affec- 
 tionate ffriend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 There is an Answear to primitive Heresie re- 
 viued &c. by Joseph Wyeth. I spoke to Tate ^ 
 to send it. J. T. 
 
 For Sir John Rodes. 
 
 London i8. 5th mo 1698. 
 
 Dear Ffriend, — It was no small disapointment 
 to me and some others of thy friends that thou 
 came not to the yearly meeting. We fully expected, 
 and had provided lodging at my Bro Thomas. 
 Many friends did inquire for thee. I gave them 
 that which thou gave me for the reason of thy 
 
 ■^ Tate Sowle, who published the Quakers' books. 
 
I40 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 absence, and however they looked upon the plea 
 to be valid, I could not take it so, tho on the 
 other hand am unwilling to use arguments to 
 induce any, especially one I so much value, to 
 under-take any thing beyond their own freedome, 
 least any thing should happen amiss. It is true 
 that the Small Pox has been in this City this 
 summer, and so it is always, but they have been 
 much less mortall this year than many other years 
 — I hear that the Countryes are sickly and in many 
 places more dyes even of that distemper, consider- 
 ing the number, than there dyes here. As it is not 
 good to be presumptious, so not too timorous, for 
 the hand of the Lord can reach us where he pleases. 
 They exceeded in their report, who informed thy 
 mother of the great distruction which that disease 
 made hear, and that the Contagion thereof was so 
 high, that it was suspected twould turn to the 
 Plague. 1 never heard any such thing, but in 
 thy letter. I write this, that that notion may not 
 so affright thee, as to shut out the thoughts of 
 coming to us this winter. I am sorry that thou 
 misst such good oppertunity as the late Y-M ^ 
 did affoard us ; it was a good time and the 
 Lord was with his People according to his wonted 
 goodness, tho friends have not been without 
 some exercise, perticularly by the means of M. ff^ 
 whose extreame age some few did impose upon 
 to her dishonour, and the greife of many faith- 
 ful Brethren. But friends would not admit of 
 any thing of that kind and all ended well. For 
 
 1 Yearly Meeting. 
 
 * Margaret Fox. See note, p. 134. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 141 
 
 the more perticular account of affaires amongst us, 
 I refer thee to the bearer, our near and antient 
 ffriend J. Blackling, who in his old age hath under- 
 taken a long journey to visit us, and as his service 
 was great amongst us in diverse respects, so I hope 
 he goes away easy in his spirit and well satisfied 
 in the love, union, and fFellowship of ffriends here. 
 ... I have intreated him to take a nights lodg- 
 ing or two with thee. I know thou knows him 
 to be worthy, and doubt not of the kind enter- 
 tainment which he will receive from thee, if thou 
 art at home. In your society, remember me. I 
 was almost of the mind to have accompanied him so 
 far as thy house, for as I have love and esteem to 
 him, I have also to thee, which occasioned me the 
 more to request him to make a stop at thy house. 
 Dear John, I am often ingaged in my spirit for 
 thee and that thou may abundantly manifest thy 
 Love to God, who has been so exceeding kind to 
 thee. ... As to G. K. his new tract for outward 
 supper and Baptisme, it has done more service for 
 Truth than hurt, for many weak People up and 
 down the Countrey are now thereby convinced that 
 he is further backsliden and Apostatised in respect 
 to Doctrine than they apprehended him to be. 
 Besides the book itself has litell in it, he haveing 
 not that I can perceive, advanced any new argument 
 for the use of those shadowy observations, than 
 what our adversaryes before has said — I suppose 
 thou has heard that our dear frd W. P. is in 
 Ireland with John Everad and Tho. Storey who 
 went before Y-M and since, J. Vaughton and 
 S. Waldenfeild are also well in their service 
 
142 A qUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 there. W. P.'s service has been unspeakably to the 
 honner of Truth and his own Reputation therein : 
 people of all ranks and sorts resorting to meetings 
 and speak well of Truth by occasion of his ministry, 
 so that what his adversaryes can doe amounts to no 
 more than the striking a lighted torch against a post, 
 which occasions its light to burn the brighter — H. G. 
 I know, has his dear love to thee, but he is out of 
 town, gone to Chippinham to the marraige of his 
 sister Gouldney's daughter Jenney with Michael 
 Russel's son of London. Dear ffriend in most true 
 and cordiall Love I remain thy Constant frd 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 Rob' Barclay is here with his wife, she intends to 
 tarry here the winter. 
 
 For Sr. John Rodes. 
 
 To be left at Wm Storrs 
 
 Draper 
 In Chesterfield 
 
 Darbyshire 
 
 London i8. 9m 1698. 
 Dear Friend, — Thine of the 15 instant and 
 that which gave account of thy kind Token, also 
 thine of the 17th 7mo last came all to hand, for 
 which I am thy debtour, and have often desiered 
 oppertunity to acknowledge it, but have been pre- 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 143 
 
 vented by the interveening of many affaires relateing 
 to the Service of Truth and the Friends thereof. 
 And Friends haveing been greived at the Delay 
 of Dear G: ff's Epistell in the Press, occasioned by 
 a Clark that they hiered to take care thereof, dis- 
 charged him that attendance, so that care fell upon 
 the meeting for sujfFerings ^ and from thence mostly 
 upon me, but the last sheet is now in the Press. 
 That perticuler Service hath taken me up much 
 time, so that, and not being willing to neglect 
 some other Services also, I have been oblidged to 
 Run in Arreares to my Friends which I hope Love 
 will excuse — Dear Friend, my heart, at this time, is 
 filled with Love of God towards the Brethren, and 
 therin thou may assure thy self that thou hast not 
 the least share. ... I would not have thee think 
 that because thou did not hear from me, that there- 
 fore the good account which thou gave me in 
 the first, and Confirmed in thy Second Letter, was 
 not duely Received and Considered, I doe assure thee 
 that there is not any thing, these many years, hath 
 so affected my heart as that did. As this was cause 
 of Joy in Heaven, so it is unto the FaithfuU on Earth. 
 And I could not be content to satisfie my Self alone 
 therewith, but did impart it to the Brethren, thy 
 good Frends. They are glad therof, and we forget 
 not to make mention of you in our Prayers before 
 our God, that he may strengthen and establish us 
 
 1 In the days of persecution, cases of suffering often occurred 
 between the times of the Yearly Meetings, so a committee of 
 Friends was appointed in London to deal with these cases. This 
 met on the 6th day of every month, and was called the " Meeting 
 for Sufferings." 
 
144 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 to the praise of his Grace. The Scripture is ful- 
 filled unto us, Let the Righteous be glad. Let 
 them rejoyce before God, yea Let them exceedingly 
 Rejoyce. Sing unto God, Sing Praises unto his 
 Name — God seteth the Solitary in Familys, he 
 bringeth out those who are bound in chaines, but 
 the Rebellious dwell in a dry Land, the Lord hath 
 regard unto thee, he hath heard thy Cryes and 
 seen the exersise and travaile of thy souU, when 
 thou could say with the afflicted of old, I am like 
 the Pelican in the wildernes, I am like an owl 
 in the desart, I watch, and am as a sparrow 
 alone upon the house top. The Lord remembers 
 those times of affliction, and is Causeing his People 
 to say, the wilderness and the solitary places shall 
 be glad for them, and the desart shall Rejoice and 
 blossome — If thy Brother continue in faithfulnes 
 unto the Lord, thou wilt have a partener and Com- 
 panion in the Service for Truth thereawayes. You 
 wil be Comforted together and be a strength one 
 unto another, and you know not what Instruments 
 of good unto others the Lord may make you in his 
 hand, so that in your severall Capacities, you may 
 hold forth the blessed Truth, as an Ensigne to the 
 People, that many may flow together to the goodness 
 of the Lord, and sing unto him in the height of 
 Sion, and Praise his Name for the wheat, and for 
 the wine, and for the Oyl, and for the Young of the 
 Flock, and of the Herd. And their souls shall be 
 as a watered Garden, and they shall not sorrow any 
 more at all — My heart is full of the Joy that I 
 conceive in the Increase of Truth, and of the 
 spreading of the Fame of that Name wherein we 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 145 
 
 have beleeved. Oh let all that know the Lord, 
 bless the Lord, and walk before him Reverently and 
 in humility. Give my dear love to thy Brother 
 H — . Thy first gave me some hopes to receive 
 a few lines from him. I look for them yet, and 
 it will be our joy to receive some account from 
 himself of the work of the Lord in his own soull — 
 Our dear Friend, W. P., is well, and in a Living 
 exercise in the Service of Truth. His dear love 
 is both to thee and G. H. I doubt not but 
 he will visit you with a Letter (but he is lately 
 come to this City) he is glad in you. We 
 are all glad therof, upon the account of the pros- 
 perity of the Truth of God and the benfit of the 
 Souls of those who truly beleeve therein. Friends 
 here are generally well, and Truth prospers amongst 
 us. Here are now in Town Tho: Upsher,^ 
 R. Ashby,^ John Pope, and Dorcas Dole ^ of BristoU 
 and severall other publick Labourers, Ben: Coole* 
 and John Boulton.^ I had a Leter this day that 
 they intend to morrow at Colchester in order for 
 London, they have been lately at Ives and at 
 Norwich. G. Keith was down at Ives, not long 
 since, and by the insinuation of R. Bridgman late 
 of this City, now Resident in Huntington, poor 
 Marget Everad was too much perswaded into an 
 
 ' Thomas Upsher, of Colchester, Essex; died 1704. 
 
 2 Richard Ashby, of London, afterwards of Norfolk ; wrote a 
 number of religious pieces; died at Wymondham (Norfolk) 
 in 1734. 
 
 ' Dorcas Dole, of Bristol ; wrote several religious pieces during 
 imprisonment in Newgate (Bristol) ; died 1684. 
 
 * See note, p. 60. 
 
 ' John Boulton, prominent early Friend ; writer and preacher. 
 
 K 
 
146 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Indulgence towards G. K. insomuch that she is hurt 
 by him, but not so much but there is good hope of 
 her Recovery. I don't understand, but that was 
 the most mischeife that he did in that progresse. 
 From thence he went to Colchester, but there he 
 could effect nothing. Friends would not permit him 
 to have oppertunity in their meeting house to preach, 
 but when meeting was done Cavill and quarrell he 
 did, and was sufficiently answeared by a Couple of 
 Stripelings Tho: Upsher and Jacob FoUowfels to 
 his disgrace even in the eyes of the Common People. 
 But one disaffected man, to Friends, proffesour 
 of Truth in the whole Town of Colchester, that 
 its thought would entertain him, and though G. K. 
 taryed at his house but a few nights the man saw 
 so much of him that he was weary of his Company 
 and did forbid him his house. So here he is, poor 
 Creature to be Lamented as an example to back- 
 sliders. The Lord hath been pleased to take away 
 our dear Friend Charles Marshall after near 4 mo 
 Sicknes, W. P. was to visit him the night before he 
 dyed when he was full of Love and Zeall for the 
 promotion of the Gospell of Christ though very 
 weak in Body, he was a Zealous Labourer in the 
 Gospell, much beloved, yesterday buryed, its thought 
 to be the greatest appearance of Friends at his 
 buriall as of any yet, exceeding in number either 
 G. F.'s 1 S. C. or F. S.^— 
 
 I take notice of thy different exersise from G. H. 
 
 That thou has met withall from some Great Men. 
 
 I am satisfied that thy eye Looks above those 
 
 uncertain things, and that thy care is most for the 
 
 ^ George Fox's. " Francis Stamper. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 147 
 
 promotion of the Truth and its Reputation, 
 knowing its Testimony is to the Cross of Christ, 
 and that is Safe and the following of that saying 
 of the Apostell Brethren, know ye not that the 
 Friendship of this world is Enmity to God. Yet 
 as Civil Men and Neighbours, they are to be 
 courteously treated. The wisdom of God will lead 
 those that follow it through this world and preserve 
 from the Evill therof. We shal be glad, if the 
 discourse which thine hinted that . . . between 
 dear J. Gratton and thy Self comeing up this winter, 
 would proceed into action. Pray, Let me know 
 if it is . . . to be so. What, though the Roads 
 be bad, easy Journeys and good horses will bring 
 you thorow safely I hope. Give my dear love 
 to dear J. G. I saw the Confirmation of thine 
 from him to J. F. Dear Friend I have writ a 
 long Leter this night though I have writ and yet 
 have others to write, perticulerly to B. Cool and 
 J. Boulton this post, but I wil make no appology, 
 thou knows my Sinceer Love In which I am Thy 
 assurd Friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 When W. P. & C. was in Irelande, to satisfye 
 some objectors, they published there in print some 
 Articles of their Christian beleefe. Since W. P. 
 comeing over, the Bp of Cork^ has published a 
 kind of an answear which Wiliam has Replyed to 
 very smartly. It is a prety thing, and beleave 
 will be of service when it is published, my Brother 
 Tho: and his wife and Son is well, so is my wife 
 
 ' Edward Wetenhall, consecrated Bishop of Cork, 1679. 
 
T48 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 and litel ones, my wifes dear love to thee. Thy 
 cask of Ale came, wel conditioned it is, we prefFer 
 it to wine. Thy love and it is acceptable to thy 
 Friend J. T. 
 
 A further answear to the Snake is ready for the 
 press by Joseph Wyeth, W. P. part of the Chris- 
 tian Quaker being answear to the Baptist with G. W. 
 is in the Press, by it selfe I suppose, otherwise 
 Methodized. I desiere to hear from thee speedily. 
 I hope I shal not be so long in thy debt for the 
 future. Edmond Waller Continues in a hopeful 
 way in the Truth, W. P. was to visit him as he 
 came to London, so is the Baptist Preacher that 
 thou hath formerly heard. ... I must forbear 
 writeing but not Love. 
 
 J- T. 
 
 For Sir John Rodes 
 At Balbour Hall 
 to be left at Joseph Storrs 
 Draper 
 In 
 
 Chesterfield 
 Darbyshere. 
 
 London, 3* ii m" 1698. 
 Dear Ffriend, — In Cordiall love I salute thee, 
 that love which I always retain towards thee for 
 Truth's sake, wherein thou art a beleever. ... I 
 am now about to come out of thy debt for letters ; 
 this is my 3^ since my last to thee of 18-9"". This 
 letter is like to be long, because intend thee a 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 149 
 
 perticular account of the Conference between some 
 Priests of Norffolk and fFriends. Suppose by this 
 time (thou) may have seen hints of in Print. The 
 Priests there are inraged at the increase of Truth 
 in them parts, for when the People know that a 
 Publick ffrd is like to be at ifrds meetings, in many 
 parts of the Country, they can get hardly any of 
 the People at their Church. — ffrds meetings much 
 crowded, which together with the malice of ffrd 
 Bugg, and the Instigation of G. K., the Priests have 
 challenged ffriends, and when they had done, would 
 have turned the challenge upon them. So they 
 intended to have made a Turner's Hall ^ jobb of 
 it, and to that end, had curtailed fFriends writeing, 
 many of them the same which G-K. had at Turners 
 Hall, and w'^'' J. Penyman, T. Crisp, Snake " and 
 Francis Bug — had printed over and over and was 
 answeared in print. Ffriends in those parts much 
 intreated some fFrds here to goe down, so T. V.,* 
 T. if,* S. W.^ and J. B." went down. I went with 
 them. The account is as followes. On the 7th, 
 last m', we came well to Stoke in Norffolk, having 
 parted a day or two for the sake of meetings ; met 
 many ffrds from Norwich and other parts of 
 Norffolk and Suffolk. The place appointed to 
 dispute was at West Dereham, about 2 miles 
 from Stoke. Many People came together on this 
 occasion ; between 30 & 40 ffrds on horsback went 
 together from Stoke to Dereham. The Priests had 
 
 ^ George Keith's meeting-house, Philpot Lane, Fenchurch 
 
 Street, London. ^ Rev. Charles Leslie. 
 
 ' Thomas Vaughton. * Thomas Field. 
 
 6 Samuel Waldenfield. ' J. Butcher. 
 
ISO A C^AKER POST-BAG 
 
 appointed that morning we was to meet their 
 Prayers — so we did not goe to the place till near 
 the lo*'' hour, but we found that they had delayed 
 their service till jfFrds came, and when they entered, 
 began their clamorous noise, but certainly none of 
 (the) poor deluded Quakers could be at all affected 
 with their formality and vain repetitions performed 
 with so much indifferency and levity of mind. The 
 6 Priests, appointed the opponents in the dispute, 
 were most of them, huge, jolly ffellows, who dure- 
 ing their prayers (w* continued a considerable time 
 after we came in) staired about, took observations 
 on the People and bawled out their Littanyes with 
 Elevated hands, now and then spareing so much 
 time from looking abt them, as to turn up the 
 whites of their eyes, which was grievious to behold. 
 They had built two stages oppositt, one for them- 
 selves, and the other for friends. 
 
 Ffriends stood covered as a sign and testimony 
 against their will worship. When their service was 
 over, S. Waldenfeld kneeled down to Prayer. The 
 Assembly was all uncovered, except the Priests and 
 some few about them, at which they shewed some 
 uneasiness and Lightness, but the power of Truth 
 was over and was quiet untill Conclusion. Then 
 the Priests read a letter from ffriends to them which 
 they calld a Challenge, and R. Ashley offerd to 
 speak. After some discourse, the letter was read 
 and R. A. had his liberty, who opened the state 
 of the Controversie proveing that there was both 
 actions and words from the Priests previous to 
 this letter and w"' was the occasion of that letter 
 of ffrds, w^*" they calld the Challenge. So ffrds 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 151 
 
 insisted that all the leters &c. might be read to 
 the Auditory, both the priests and ours ; and after 
 the priests had striven much, it was granted. 
 The Priests read their letters, and J. Butcher read 
 fFrds Letters, wherby it did plainly appear to the 
 People, that fFrds was the Defendants and not the 
 Challengers, and that they did not only challenge 
 fFrds, but went to severall places urging divers 
 perticuler fFrds to bring forth the Quakers &c. 
 The next thing discoursed of, was the preleminaries 
 to the dispute, but notwithstanding much was said 
 by fFrds to shew the unreasonableness of comeing 
 up on tryall for crimes so high as blasphemy against 
 God, Christ, &c., without we had first a copy of 
 those passages said by them to be blasphemy in our 
 ffriends bookes, with the Titles, pages &c., of said 
 bookes. But this they would not grant, which if 
 they would grant it, fFrds did offer the priests, 
 allowing Convenient time for them to procure said 
 bookes and consider them, that they might true 
 answear make, they would (illegible) them as publickly 
 as they would. But this the priests would not 
 admitt, noe doubt, beleeving, if that was granted, 
 but that we should even by said bookes, out of 
 which they pretend to charg us, wipe ofF those 
 Aspersions they had cast upon us — Judas — i.e. f.f. 
 Bug, stood at the Priests Elbows and was their 
 Agent to look out places, quotations, &c. ; and at 
 the notice of Bug, they insisted upon a passage in 
 Edwd Burroughs ^ works, where he calld forth all 
 
 1 Edward Burroughs, Quaker, 1634-1662. Born near Kendal ; 
 became a minister in 1652 ; travelled much in England, Scot- 
 and, and Ireland ; was imprisoned in Newgate, where he died. 
 
152 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 sort of proffessours in Religion to a publick Tryall 
 &c. — This, they would have the terms or prelime- 
 naries on this occasion. Ffriends shewed it was 
 irrationall to beleeve that a Person deceased above 
 35 years should write prelimenaries so long be- 
 fore fittly adapted to the present occasion. — The 
 Priests did mostly betake themselves to their 
 stage, except some smaller Priests, who sat in a 
 high Gallery. There was one priest, who came 
 accidentally, and stood alone in the pulpitt, 
 who by his countenance seemed not to be in the 
 enimitie with the Rest — fFrds appealed to him in 
 diverse cases, wherein he shewed much modera- 
 tion, and before Assembly broke, he left the place. 
 It will be too tedious for a letter to relate 
 perticularly the whole proceedings of the day, but 
 more rudeness and confusion, especially from men 
 so high in proffession of Religion, was hardly ever 
 seen ; and ff: Bugg with them hooteing and hallooing 
 and laughing ; and a few joyned with them, about 
 20 or 30 as near as I could compute, who was ready 
 at their back and notice to laugh, bawl, or hiss. 
 Such uggly laughter, as I saw in the priests, I 
 never beheld, except on a mountabanks stage. 
 Indeed the Power of Darkness did shine agst 
 the Power of Truth, and it was plainly felt and 
 seen. But the Power of Truth prevailed, and 
 when they would essay to read their Quotations 
 to render Truth odious, fFrds did appeall to the 
 People, w'^'' were many hundreds, of the unreason- 
 ableness thereof, having not the books, nor time 
 to consider them. And ffrds sounded the testi- 
 mony of Truth over the Assembly opening unto 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 153 
 
 the people our Christian beleefe in diverse per- 
 ticulers, wherein they were questioned, and the 
 Testimony of Truth did get entrance and the 
 People was generally sober. This made the Priests 
 to rage and gnash with their teeth, and endeavour 
 what they could to stop the mouths of fFrds by 
 raising hallooing and Laughter amongst their 
 mobb, perticulerly once, while T. Upsher was 
 speaking ; but he proceeded in his Testimony and 
 w^ he had done, two or three fFrds more stood up 
 succesively testifying to the Love and kindness 
 of God in sending his son Jesus Christ to save 
 sinners, and other doctrines relateing thereunto, in 
 so much, that the Priests was down and the 
 People quiett, but afterwards w° some time had 
 been spent in debate, they (illegible) to proceed 
 again to expose friends to the derision and Rage 
 of the People. But the People was moderate and 
 quiet, except some few as before. Ffrds still 
 declared their willingness to joyn Issue with them 
 upon equall and just terms, and as oft as the 
 Priests did insist upon the one, ffrds did insist 
 upon the other, denying them to be a court of 
 Judicature, or to have Power to bring us to 
 publick account, without our consent and agree- 
 ment, but upon terms agreed beforehand. So 
 they was not able to obtain their design. There 
 was a Justice of the Peace present and a Colonel, 
 as I take it, who now and then put in discourse. 
 The Colonel, after the Testimonys of ffrds, was 
 observed to say litell. The Justice in favour of 
 the Priests, should have had fFrds let the Priests 
 proceed, but fFrds did appeal to him concerning 
 
154 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 the unreasonableness thereof. He seemed to be 
 a sober man and was, that day, moderate, and did 
 not at all seem pleased with the Rudeness and 
 Lightness of the Priests behaviour. And this did 
 very much Confound the Priests, that w° they 
 produced a charge of Errour in Doctrine against 
 ffriends, there was not wanting but one friend or 
 other stood and opened to the People ffrds beleefe 
 touching that Doctrine and other principles of 
 our ffaith. The priests one time above the Rest, 
 stired up their Emmesaries into such disorder, 
 which disordered the Assembly, that ffrds could 
 not be heard. There was divers ffrds had taken 
 in their pockets each a doz. or two of a litel book 
 cald Christian beleefe of the people cald Quakers, 
 formerly addt to the Parlament and Reprinted 
 upon this occasion and looo sent down thither 
 for the People, w"'' when ffrds saw that they could 
 not be heard for the noise, we scattered them 
 openly amongst the People to speak for us. It 
 had good service, for it divided the watters and 
 the People fell to reading them and so way was 
 made for ffrds to be heard again. Oh the Priests 
 Raged at this, who sometimes cald to the Justice 
 for the Stocks and to take our names and to 
 silence us. They grew weary of their work ; the 
 Justice perceiving them willing to be gone, he 
 came in to their releife and proposed that inas- 
 much we could not agree about terms to come to 
 the business, he did not see it to any purpose that 
 the People should any longer be detained, and 
 thought it very proper that the People did dis- 
 miss, night also approaching ; for it was near the 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 155 
 
 4th hour, which proposition the Priests seemed 
 very easy with (I beleeve they was hungry, for 
 thy did not look as if they was used to fast so 
 long). But fFrds to the last did insist upon 
 these two things, that they had all along insisted 
 upon, 1st. that it was not our Challenge, but 
 theirs, for proofe whereof certificates was read 
 from the neighbourhood to whom the Priests had 
 dared them to bring forth the Quakers, or els 
 would account them Cowards for ever ; and also, 
 if the Priest misripresented this Controversy to 
 the B-p of Norwich,^ which John Gurney of that 
 Citty did very handsomely mannage, (who also 
 had been with the B-p) to the satisfaction of the 
 People, and 2"^, that our refusall to joyn Issue 
 with them then, was because of the arbitariness of 
 the Priests proceeding with us — -not our fear of 
 any thing that they could bring out of our 
 bookes, (for the diverse Letters had pasd between 
 the Priests & ffirds before the day we met, yet 
 would not the Priests agree upon terms and what 
 fFrds demanded beforehand, but in their last 
 Letter, following G. K.'s example, whether fFrds 
 would come or not on the 8 December, (it) 
 mattered not ; they would be there on that day). 
 This done, fFrds concluded, testifying to the 
 People of the Principle of Truth in their Con- 
 sciences ; But near the Conclusion, fF. Bug tels 
 the People of his purpose to be there to morrow, 
 but fFrds did acquaint the People what an 
 Apostate he was ; that he had been answear'd 
 from time to time, yet always restles ; therefore 
 ' John Moore, Bishop of Norwich, 1691-1707. 
 
156 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 did refer them to our books, in that case, not 
 accounting our selves as a People concerned to 
 meet him. The Priests was asked concerning his 
 appearing there. They disowned it, and said it 
 was not theirs, but Buggs business — The People 
 began to move ofF, but ffrds was not hasty to 
 depart the place. The Priests wanted to be gone 
 and said to ffrds upon the Stage ; Pray Gentle- 
 men, begone ; it is hard if we cannot have 
 the Liberty of our own church ; But while 
 the People was departing, the Priests & ffrds 
 had very friendly Conference, as they stood on 
 the oppositte Stages, and they wished us well, 
 and did declare (as they had done 2 or 3 
 hours before) that they did beleeve that the 
 Quakers of this present generation were Or- 
 thodox. 
 
 I beleeve Quakerism (as the Priests call it) was 
 never so preached in any of their Churches in that 
 diocese before, insomuch that some of the Priests 
 said : the Church was become a Conventicle. So 
 the People being gone generally, as the Priests 
 went off the Stage, ffrds went off by degrees, tarry- 
 ing in the house until we see every Priest off the 
 Stage. And more of the same bookes was delivered 
 at the doores of the steeplehouse. — Thus this days 
 work ended, I hope no way to the dishonour of 
 Truth, nor the ffrds thereof; the Priests friendly 
 with us, both upon the floor of the steeplehouse 
 and in the Yard seeming very kind and neighbourly 
 — Truth has the pre-eminence, — God shall have 
 the praise and honour — It was his doing, for they 
 had made a firme agreament and great preparation 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 157 
 
 beforehand to bring the Quakers into Contempt. 
 . . . But, at last, they was so tame, that all their 
 threats to accuse us to the Parlament, and to 
 appoint other days to do their work, if they could 
 not do it then, vanished as Smoke — There was a 
 good appearance of firds ; they went mostly home 
 the next day, declaring their easines and satisfaction 
 of mind, except some Publick firds, who on the 
 first day following did appoint meetings — There 
 was a meeting at Stoke the day after the dispute, 
 and on the first day at Lyn, Downham, Hetford, 
 Bury, Fakenham &c., besides divers other places 
 the residue of the week. The next day, Bug was 
 to be at the said steeplehouse and R. Ashley, Tho 
 Pinnock, Tho: Upsher had some concern upon 
 their minds for the sake of the People who might 
 be there, and they went in the morning, but he 
 had but a small company, about 100 people. His 
 busines, that he pretended was to prove that the 
 Quakers denyed Jesus of Nazareth to be the son 
 of God, and that we exalted, at least, equalled our 
 own sufferings with the sufferings of Christ &c., 
 that we spoke contemptuously of the Scripture 
 and 2 or 3 more such like articles much the 
 same that G. K. has had in Turners Hall . . . 
 J. Vaughton, and S. Waldenfeld hearing some 
 Priests was there, was concerned in mind to be 
 there, so they went about noon, and ffrds that 
 was present had good oppertunity to clear up 
 and wipe off many calumnies cast upon ffrds by 
 Bug, and did so mannage the matter, that ffrancis 
 Bug was much confounded in his work, and 
 makeing no earnings of it, for they spoyled his 
 
158 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 drollery and sport, that he intended amongst the 
 mobb, and he shutt up his bookes and broke ofF 
 a considerable time before the People expected 
 him and that he had given them expectation. 
 A.nd there was that day also, papers dispersed 
 at Steeple house door intitled Some positions 
 touching divers weighty Truths beleeved by the 
 People cal'd Quakers, subscribed by many hands 
 — So both days work ended, and since, the Priests 
 have publisht in the Post Boy (which suppose thou 
 has seen) some blind account, not true of the 
 busines, which fFrds think it enough at present 
 to deny to be true, w'^'' was also inserted after ; 
 and they have replayed, but they don't think 
 themselves concerned much further that way, 
 understanding they are printing their Narrative. 
 W" it comes out, they must have an Answear. 
 Thou sees I have taken a great deal of paines 
 to write so long letter. 1 hope thou wilt not 
 think it burdensom. I will assure thee, I cannot 
 be so liberall to all my fFrds, who much importune 
 me for account of things ; but I hope thou beleeves 
 thou has such intrest in my heart that I shall 
 always be willing to oblidge thee. . . . Our Dr. 
 frd W. P. is now at BristoU. His son W. P. to 
 be marry'd to one of Ch: Hartfords daughters 
 the 5"" day of the next week. Some of us are 
 much disposed to be there, but having been 
 several of us in Norfolk lately, can hardly goe 
 down so soone from home, though our Respect 
 is true and dear to the father, and the son has 
 some share for the ffathers sake. I desiere to hear 
 from thee as soon as thou please and to know w" 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 159 
 
 thou thinke we may see thee, so dear ffrd, in dear 
 love, I conclude thy sincere ffrd 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 I have sent the yearly bill of mortality for this 
 City, that distemper viz: small pox is many 
 hundreds less dyed this year than some other 
 years. 
 
 For Sr. John Rodes 
 
 at Balbarr Hall. 
 To be left at Wm Storrs 
 Draper 
 
 In Chesterfield 
 Darbysheire. 
 
 London, i8 1st Mo. 169-. 
 9 
 
 Dear and Beloved Friend, — I write a few lines 
 last 3d day post adviseing of the Receipt of thine, 
 since I have been much out of health, this is cheifely 
 for Covert to the inclosed, which was delivered to 
 the House last 5''' Day but it had not its mis- 
 cheviously Designed effect, many of the members 
 resented it as a Rediculous mischevious Peice, one 
 called it impotent Malice and as an Argument that 
 it was so the very next morning upon the Reading 
 the Bill in the House to prevent Papists from 
 Disinheriting their Protestant Heirs, a Clause was 
 at that time offered to prevent the Quakers also 
 in the like Case, which occasioned a member to 
 say what do you make of the Quakers, han't we 
 
i6o A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Acknowledged and Indulged them as Protestant 
 Dissenters and upon very little debate more, the 
 House called out, Reject it, Reject it, which we 
 beleeve will be no Small Mortification to our 
 Adversaries. The occasion of this was H. Jackson's 
 Son, who it seems acknowledged himself a member 
 of the Church of England, and as I hear haveing 
 made application to the Bp. of York that his Father 
 upon his Joyning to that church had disinherited 
 him, and I know H. J. to be of a violent dis- 
 position, yet it seems that what was done against 
 his son was done before he made this pretension 
 even whilst he was called a Quaker. I was last 
 first day at Hartford and on 2d day comeing out of 
 the Town I saw Sarah Stout wel in health, who the 
 next morning was found drownd in a River near 
 that Town. She left her mothers House (or rather 
 her own for she was M"^ of that house and much 
 riches besides) about 1 1 at night, another person 
 was with her at that time who says he left her there 
 at home, but just about one time her Mother and 
 servants found them both gone and sat up all night 
 expecting her returne, when next morning soon as 
 day, news was brought of her death. She was 
 found without her Gown and Apron, Lying close to 
 the Grates of a Mill, her stayes and Petycoates on, 
 some Gold and Silver in her pockets, and all her 
 buttons etc. of gold and sillver in her Sleeves and 
 shoes. Her apron was found, but not her Gown, 
 which by the strings appeard to have been untyed 
 not cut nor broke. It happend upon the Great or 
 cheife day of the Assize so that the news on that 
 occasion was swallowed up in discourse of her. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS i6i 
 
 There are no certainty of things. The man that 
 was with her has a wife and children : he did 
 sometimes place mony out to Interest for her but 
 the Juges verdict was that she drownd her self being 
 non Compus mentes. She was, poor lass, grown 
 very high, haveing litell regard to Truth nor her 
 aged Mother who is a good Woman — 
 
 As to E. W.^ and T. L.'s daughter. When he 
 was first Convinced, he happened to fall into there 
 hands, and there did appear too great forwardness 
 in the old folks to promote their daughter ; but 
 quickly after, he went into Buckinghamsheire, I 
 think it is now about I2 months, where he has 
 remained ever since and is averse to any such thing, 
 I am not unmindfull of what thou write. When I 
 am prepared, shall give thee account. I wait for 
 oppertunity, that I may the more undiscernably 
 slide in busines — I am in true affection Thy con- 
 stant Friend 
 
 J. TOMKINS. 
 
 The Petitions are not yet delivered nor doe I 
 think much will come of them this Sessions. 
 
 1 Edmund Waller ? 
 
i62 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 To Sir John Rodes at 
 
 Balbar Hall 
 To be left at Joseph Friths 
 
 Butcher In 
 
 ChesterfEeld 
 
 Darbyshere. 
 
 London, 4. 4 mo. 1700. 
 
 Dear Friend, — . . . I received thine 18 of 2d 
 mo and should have been glad to see thee at Y. M. 
 Here was a large appearance of ffriends — things 
 was very well, I know not any thing worth the 
 noteing, saveing two things, one occasioned by 
 T. L.^ endeavouring with the meeting to obtain 
 more of G. fFs papers to be printed, viz. manu- 
 scripts, than fFriends was willing to consent unto, 
 which occasioned a debate but not long. The 
 other by A. A.^ takeing up time unseasonably in 
 giving a narrative of his travailes, with so much 
 indiscretion, as it gave advantage to some, who look 
 not with the best eye towards , America. So it 
 greatly grieved his ffrds, and being that discourse 
 took up an hour and half of the last two hours 
 we had to spend, the hurt both to himself and 
 the meeting could not be recovered. But other 
 wise, things was well, and good accounts of things 
 from many parts of the prosperity of Truth, for 
 which the soulls of many was thankfull to 
 the Lord. D"' J. G. left Citty yesterday was a 
 sennight for Y-M at Colchester. In the way 
 taken sick, but made shift to reach Colchester, and 
 
 ' Probably G. Fox's stepson-in-Iaw, Thomas Lower. 
 ^ Aaron Atkinson. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 163 
 
 was so bad, that they dispaird of his life, and was 
 about to send away for his wife. J. ffield went 
 down with him, came home last night, left him 
 under hopes of Recovery. . . . Thy Bro H — 
 left city yesterday ; home by way of Coventry, 
 pretty reserved from us of thy nearest acquaint- 
 ance. He sat once at my house w''*' I took kindly ; 
 seemed much affected towards a young man he 
 brought with him. I know not his name. I saw 
 yesterday a frend at (illegible) came from Phila- 
 delphia, abt 12 of 1st mo: last, per way of Mary- 
 land. The Governor, wife, and child, all well then. 
 No doubt but the publick prints have sufFeciently 
 informed thee of G. K. Conformity to the Ch. ofE. 
 They make a tool of him ; he preaches every first 
 day at a new place ; but generally even. Such as 
 are of the Church, have him in Derision : he serves 
 for a jest. Even whilst he is in the pulpit, there is 
 such a murmur with the secret talking and observa- 
 tion of his hearers, together with their dumb notices 
 and laughter, that many could not hear him, so that 
 we may observe from the saying of our Lord, when 
 salt has lost it savour, wherewith shall it be salted. 
 It's not ordination or imposition of mens hands can 
 give it savour again : it's thence forth good for 
 nothing, but to be cast out and to be trodden under 
 the foot of man. It is an Eternall Truth and is 
 fullfild upon him, that even now, whilst he seems to 
 be entering into preferment, he is Cloathed with 
 contempt. . . . 
 
 . . . As to those Quakers, the publick prints speak 
 of being baptized, they are of the old shattered 
 Separates, and even in Huntingdonshere that G. K. 
 
i64 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 boasts of the great Conversion, J. Everad^ says, but 
 4 who was in unity with ffrds, who have gone to 
 Steeplehouse, his wife and R. B. two of them. The 
 other poor people who flocked after him, was of the 
 weak sort who leaned to the old separation, but 
 G. K. has out- run them, and they will not follow, 
 but returns to fFriends meetings, tho, it cannot be 
 denyed, but he has muddled the minds of many 
 weak persons, which time will help to reduce as 
 well as Truth. Since then, we have built a new 
 meeting house at Wapping, where is a prospect of an 
 increase. At Y-M the ffrds brought up Sub- 
 scription for 6606 of R. B.'s Appology. They will 
 come at 2^ and lo** in Calf Leather and 2^ and 7*^ in 
 sheep, and moreover the Y-M have agreed to be 
 at charge of the translation therof into french, and 
 to have 1500 printed and dispersed into foreign 
 parts for Information of strangers. 
 
 Dear ffriend I desier to heer from thee and in 
 very dear love Remain thy Cordiall and RespectfuU 
 Friend John Tomkins. 
 
 . . . my Respects to thy D"" Mother and my wifes 
 Respects to thy self. 
 
 To Sr. John Rodes 
 These Presents. 
 
 London 8. 6 mo. 1700. 
 Dearly Beloved Friend, — I cannot relate the 
 suffering of my mind dureing thy late sicknes, I 
 have witnes therof in some measure, though none 
 knoweth fully but the Lord, and I have had help 
 herein for many here was concerned and much 
 ^ John Evaraid, of Chattens, in the Isle of Ely. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 165 
 
 desiered thy Recovery : and had not some circum- 
 stances attended, my afFaires, which are not proper 
 to communicate in writeing, (though I may tell 
 them thee) I had gone on purpose and waited on 
 the disposeing hand of God. But the Lord has 
 been gracious in his dealings and had mercy, not 
 only on thee, but on me also lest I should have 
 sorrow upon sorrow — 
 
 I am much beholding to Cornelius ^ for my intel- 
 ligence which did often metigate my fears dureing 
 thy sicknes. He has shewed him self as a FaithfuU 
 servant, and his carefull concern for his Master did 
 as much affect, as oblidge me. I understand by 
 his of the 3d instant, that thou gathers strength, 
 and that thy appetite increases, which I am glad of, 
 a due care and watchfulnes not only in thy phisition, 
 but in thy self, will be nessesary to carry off the 
 Reliques of the distemper — Oh dear Friend, my 
 heart is melted in a sence of the mercies of God, 
 surely he is worthy of more then the Calves of our 
 Lips for the same ; even to be Reverenced and 
 served with our whole man. It was the Lord who 
 strengthened thee in thy Languishing, and made 
 all thy bed in thy Sicknes, even when as the 
 Psalmist said, when an evill disease cleaved fast 
 unto thee, he hath raised thee up, and in this, 
 hast favoured thee because thine enimies doth not 
 tryumph over thee. I have indeed considered thy 
 dear Mother, that it was no doubt a time of sorrow 
 and a sore tryall to her. Surely now she may 
 account her self, as it were, of the number of those 
 good women of old time, who by faith, received 
 ■■ Cornelius Cade, Sir John's servant and steward at Barlbrough. 
 
1 66 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 their Dead raised to Life again. Will she not in 
 gratitude with Hannah, who dedicated her son to 
 the Lord, offer him to his service ; my dear Friend 
 I remember Its not a time to make long visits ; thy 
 eys no doubt are very tender, but my Love would 
 suffer me no longer to forbear to manifest a littell 
 of the frame of my heart. In dear Love I remain 
 always Thy very affectionate and FaithfuU Friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 H. G. I saw this morning. His dear Love to 
 thee. My true Respects to the Lady thy Mother 
 to Doctor Heathcot and D"' J. Gratton. When 
 strength will permit shall be glad to hear from 
 thee. J. T. 
 
 London 3d ist mo 1701. 
 
 Much Esteemed Friend, — Thine of 13th iimt 
 I have which should I suppose been the 12m for 
 I received it the 16 of Febru pr the post mark. 
 Was glad of a leter from thee. Wish this may 
 find thee better in health, and beleeve a Journey 
 to this Citty would contribute to it now — spring is 
 come, I should also think it a happiness to myself, 
 as well as to thee, if could see thee fix upon a sut- 
 able companion : for a wife — though I have no 
 more in the matter then the pleasure of seeing thee 
 so happy — That Family are pretty well in health, 
 except the Mother, who has at times returne of 
 her ague — I was, according to order, in thy last, 
 goeing with the fee to Dr Gibbons,^ but remem- 
 
 '■ William Gibbons, M. 0.(1649-1728), the "Mirmillo" of Garth's 
 " Dispensary." 
 
 " While others meanly asked whole months to slay 
 I oft despatched the patient in a day." 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 167 
 
 bred thou did order me before in some of thy 
 Letter, to give D' Coleback ^ a Ginea, and soon after 
 order me a 2^ fee of like sum for him, which I did 
 delay hopeing to have seen thee before this. Now 
 I writ to know which D' and what I must give 
 them — Richard Claridge has gone through much 
 of what he intends for answear to thy neighbour 
 Ja: Cook,^ and I dont see but he will be Inclinable 
 to print it, but I doe what I can to suspend it. I 
 find he has taken some pains, and beleeve he will 
 hardly think the Labour worth his time, only for 
 the Information of one single person. I gave him 
 both his name and thy charectour of thy neighbour, 
 and hope he will treat him answerable thereunto, 
 though I have not yet seen it. The 2^ part of my 
 small Collection, to which thy preface is fixed, is 
 in the press and it was well approved by the 
 Friends who heard it. We wish it had been larger 
 that it might have done more good, and though I 
 print thy name without thy consent to it, yet as I 
 hope any good design will bear me out in the 
 Generall, so I hope, and doubt not, but thou will 
 forgive me that presumption, though I confess, 
 being to my own book, may look a litell vain to 
 some. Yet knowing my own sincerity, and to 
 what end I doe it, I shall be willing to bear the 
 Reflections which may come on that accountt. 
 Dear W. P. is at Bristoll ; his young Son has been 
 very ill ; some danger of Life feared, but better, 
 
 1 Sir John Colebatch, physician, knighted 1716; died 1729. 
 
 ^ The Rev. James Cook, Rector of Barlbrough. In a letter 
 dated Aug. g, 1699, applying for the living, then vacant, he wrote : 
 " If my friend and neighbour Thomas Aldam has given a good 
 character of me, I will do my best to make it appear to be true." 
 
1 68 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 and Recovering. His wife Lookes every day — yet 
 he is expected in town this night. He has not yet 
 appeared publik but once at Westminster. There 
 is some danger that they will take his Government.^ 
 The Sessions being like to be short, is the cheif 
 Security, though as yet, no bill, that I know, is 
 brought into the (illigible) Tho. Greens Rich 
 widow dyd sudenly, being found dead in her 
 chamber last 7 day alone ; so Covetous, poor 
 woman, could not affoard to keep a maid. A will 
 was found, which has bequeath'd much money 
 about, mostly to Friends. R. Dimsdale and his 
 son at Eping, both Doctors in Phisick, and a kins- 
 man of hers, not a Friend, are made executors, to 
 whom she has given the Residueary part of her 
 estate, which is like to be considerable. The King 
 haveing hurt his Collar bone by a Fall off his horse 
 signd yesterday, by Commissioners under the great 
 seale, the act for attainder of P. of W,^ and an 
 act against Mutineers in the Army etc. And the 
 Affirmation Act and one private act. Joshua Arnold 
 has been very sick in danger and made his will 
 here, but now is like to get home again he was at 
 Plaistow meeting 5 mile out town first day I saw 
 him also this Day at J. Fields — As for poor Tho. 
 Aldam I am afraid, thou will hardly see him any 
 more. What with the Cumber and perplexity of 
 
 ^ Penn returned to England suddenly this year, fearing the loss 
 of his Colony. " The war with France and the alliance of the 
 Canadians with the Iroquois gave the friends of an Imperial Colonial 
 system an immense advantage with the Dutch Sovereign (William 
 III.), and in the absence of most of the great proprietors, they had 
 got a bill introduced into the Lords for converting the private into 
 Crown Colonies" (Hepworth Dixon's "William Penn"). 
 
 2 The Prince of Wales, i.e. the Pretender. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 169 
 
 his executorship of R. Fretwell, he is so oppresed 
 and overwhelmed in his spiritts, even to a Des- 
 paration. I have been with him severall times, 
 as well divers other Friends, but cannot prevail 
 with him to leave his chamber, which he has taken 
 among the Lawyers, to come to D Quarey, or any 
 of our houses as he pleases best. His body is 
 brought into a bad condition of health. Having 
 his mind Disturbed, has removd Sleep, and his 
 blood changd and turnd yellow like the Jaundice, 
 I know not, whether he writes for his wife this 
 post. I perswaded him last 5th day post, and he 
 made me beleeve he would ; but I find he did not. 
 I wish she was here to take care of him and comfort 
 him for he wants Comfortabl and proper food for 
 his body as well as Repose to his mind. I did not 
 expect this of such a man, as I did esteem him for 
 qualifications of mind. But what is the wisest and 
 strongest, if the Lord is pleased to try them i* — G. 
 Whitehead has been ill, but better in health again. 
 My very Dear Love to D'' J. Gratton and to D' 
 Heathcot and his wife. Please to mention my 
 Dear Love and Respects to the Lady thy Mother. 
 Thou knows the same is due to thy self pray accept 
 it from thy true Friend John Tomkins. 
 
 Favour me with a few lines of thy health and 
 when we may expect thee in town. 
 
 I beseech thee write to Henr Gouldney. He 
 has rashly said, he wil not write, till he receives a 
 Letter from thee. Consider it, as a case of necessity, 
 for I would intreat thee to open a Correspondence 
 between you — He is well, and desierd me to present 
 his Dear Love to thee and to the Lady. 
 
lyo A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 To S"^ John Rodes Barronett 
 
 at his Seat at Balbar Hall 
 Near Chesterfield 
 
 Darbyshere. 
 
 London 7. i mo 1701. 
 
 EsTEEMD Friend, — Because I love thee I am 
 bold to trouble thee with my letters I writ thee 
 (I think) last 3*^ day in answear to thine, and now 
 have, what is not pleasant, nor proffitable to the 
 Nation, for I believe we, as a people, shall have our 
 share of the effect of what is like to come upon us. 
 There is great discourse at change and other places 
 of the dangerous circumstances of the King : ^ His 
 Life is much doubted, nay it was reported, this day, 
 that he was Dead, but, since, I have heard, not 
 since his fall from his horse, has been so Indisposed, 
 that he has not been able to goe abroad, signed the 
 attainder of the Prince of Wales and our affirmation 
 bill and 2 new acts by Commisioners. He is, they 
 say, attended with a Loosenes and vomiting, ac- 
 companyd with a feavour, and they also say, his 
 collar bone is broke by the fall. We have things 
 at Reports : but doubtles, it is dangerous, for the 
 stocks in the severall Funds and Coperations are 
 much Fallen and the Bank of England People were 
 crowding there to day to Receive monys : It will 
 be occasion no doubt of a great change of affaires, 
 not only in England but all over Europe, if not 
 most of the Civillizd part of the world. They say : 
 but that I have not certain, that the act for pre- 
 servation of the King's person etc. i.e. Abjuration 
 ' William III. died March 8, 1702. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 171 
 
 Actji was past this day by an other Comission, and 
 that the King was not able to writ his name, but 
 stampt it at once in a print, or stamp made on 
 purpose — he has been a Prince of moderation to 
 all men, and we, as a people, have had large share 
 thereof : for wch we ought to be thankful! to God 
 and the King — My wife is not well, so that I 
 cannot goe out this night more fully to Informe my 
 self of the certainty of things, but considering that 
 thou dwells in a Remote Corner, I was willing 
 to shew my readines to serve thee. For I love 
 thee with Cordiall Love, and shall be glad to hear 
 of the Increase of thy health as the Spring rises. I 
 thank the Lord I am much better this winter than 
 of late years in winter, though the Infirmity Con- 
 tinues, but the Doctors say it is for my advantage. 
 If it never be worse, I shal not need to Repine, not 
 hindering my travelling either on horsback or on 
 foot. Dear W. P. is come back hither from BristoU 
 2 days since. I have not seen him, he is now at Henry 
 Goldneys to be at meeting to morrow in the Citty. 
 My poor wife cannot forget the Loss of her Children 
 last Summer. She has not been well since. The next 
 post may expect more fully to be Informd of affaires. 
 Mean time Remain thy very affectionate and 
 Faithful Friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 My Dear Love and Respects to the Lady and 
 
 remember me also to Dr. J. Gratton and to Dr. 
 
 Heathcot. 
 
 1 The Abjuration Act— "The Oath of Abjuration" of the 
 Pope and the Pretender was first administered by Statute XIII., 
 William III., 1701. 
 
172 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 For Sir John Rodes 
 
 At Balbar Hall 
 To be left at Joseph Friths 
 
 Butcher in Chesterfield 
 Darbyshere. 
 
 London 6. 3m 1701. 
 
 Dearly esteemd Friend, — Yesterday I Re- 
 ceived a letter from D' Heathcot without date but 
 know it must be wrot last 7th day wherby I find 
 the Doctors willingness to come up to City to give 
 Cozen Betty assistance if capable to Receive it, and 
 he Intimated his Intention to be here this night or 
 to morrow, except extraordinary busines prevented. 
 Now seeing he came not to night, know not but he 
 may be detained by some extraordinary occasion. 
 Therfore thought meet to signifie how it is with 
 her, for I am not insensible of your Regard to her, 
 who I know had true affection to thy self, as if her 
 Brother &c. 
 
 She now Lyes at the point of Death. I have 
 (since I have been a litell able to goe abroad) been 
 often with her and didst first find her under a deep 
 travail of Soull that she might be fited for her great 
 Change, and she has seen the travail of her soul 
 answeard, and I am wel perswaded is made ready 
 by the operation of the spirit of God to enter into 
 the Chamber of the Great Bridegrome. Her soull 
 was in manifold deep exersises, and God was very 
 Gracious and did give her to drink of the brook 
 by the way, and she will, I doubt not. Rest with 
 him for ever ! Its too long now to give thee an 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 173 
 
 History thereof, but I have put thee Some of her 
 expressions on her sick bed down in writing, in 
 order if she decease, (and I Live) to be published. 
 She sent for me this morning between 5 and 6. 
 I went to her, but before I got there, her under- 
 standing was much departed, yet at times very 
 Sensibl, and would express her self so, but not 
 continue one minut together. So I left her, and 
 came again at 2^ hour. Just now, I sent again 
 to know and she is yet alive, but has not spoke for 
 some hours, nor taken anything (who before usd 
 to take all they would give her). There has been no 
 lack of advice, they had Dr Gibbons for these last 
 6 days and he had hopes, but they are frustrated. 
 Tis a sorrowfuU house : the old folks much aflicted, 
 the old woman must turn nurs in her old age so 
 that if Dr Heathcot be not set out, let him know 
 this. Please to let John Graton (if thou see him) 
 know that I received his 3"^ 3 mo, and I have taken 
 care of Lodging for him according to desiere. 
 John Field desieres me to write him that he is not 
 willing he should accept of any quarters but at his 
 house. S. Waldenfeld also was willing to give him 
 quarters, and Dear Friend, I desire thee not to 
 think of Lodging any where but at a Friend's house 
 near the Meetings, for it will not be proper for 
 thee to have far to goe in evenings. Thou knows 
 thy last quarters with H. G. wch thou art still 
 welcome to, and I would Intreat thee Lodge no 
 where else in the Citty. I shall be glad of a few 
 lines. Time now will not admitt me to enlarge 
 concerning my self, who am not curd of my Malady. 
 I must be cut again next 5th day, and whether they 
 
174 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 will effect a cure at last, I know not. The Lord 
 knows best, what is best for me, and to him I com- 
 mit my self. I am concernd for this poor Cozen, 
 and if God had seen meet, should have much 
 Rejoyced in her Recovery, for that I beleave, she 
 would have been a great Instrument of good among 
 them. Her poor children will dearly want her, and 
 her husband as much as they, in one sence. My 
 Dear Friend, the Lord be with thee, and Continue 
 his goodnes and mercies to thee. I am with my 
 Respect to thee thy very loving and affectionate 
 Friend in hast 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 For 
 
 Sr John Rodes at 
 
 Balbar Hall 
 
 These 
 
 To be left at Joseph 
 
 Frith Butcher In 
 
 Chesterffield 
 
 Darbyshire 
 
 London 15. 3™ 1701. 
 Dearly respected Friend, — It is time lone since 
 
 O 
 
 I should have answeard thine dated 4 Instant, with 
 the Docters, both which came to my hand on the 
 7th. ... I was obliged to be cutt again for my 
 distemper, and I doubt I must be worse dealt with 
 yet. ... If thou wilt favour me so far to enquire 
 of the Docter his judgment in my case, and let me 
 know by the first, I shall take it extreemly kind 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 175 
 
 I am also under more severe exercise at present, by 
 reason my littel prety Daughter Molly Is at the 
 point of Death, to our apprehension of a violent 
 feavor — this is the 7th day and we fear she will 
 not live over this night. We have had great store 
 of advice, but none as yet can releive her. It 
 exceedingly afflicts my dear wife & self. She was 
 the flower of our Garden, and a prety pleasant 
 companion in her 4th year, and that which ads 
 to my exercise, my poor wife is with child and I 
 fear her safety — it goes to wear her, together with 
 the fatigue of nursing etc. . . . The Lord is trying 
 of us and I bless his name I can say (thorow much 
 strugle in my self) his will be done. We received 
 her at his hand, and considering she was but Lent, 
 and he whose she is, calls for his own, tis but 
 reasonable & just to resigne it up. Who shall 
 say to him What dost thou ? This is the 7th day, 
 and if she live over tomorrow, we may hope for 
 an alteration to the best for her recovery, but that 
 we dare not expect — I am sorry for thy Indispo- 
 sition and very much desier the Lord to ad to thy 
 Days and prolong thee among the Living. How- 
 ever it may goe with me, and if thy health will 
 permit, I shall be very glad to see thee up at 
 yearly meeting — For ought I know, it may be the 
 last time I may see thee, if I should not get cure 
 for my distemper, for was I of a strong constitution 
 otherwise the difficulty would be the less, but my 
 lungs are still pained, or at least pain in my breast, 
 over it — John Gratton we expect will be at BristoU 
 Y-M. None of our publick fFds goes from this 
 city this year. . . . 
 
176 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 Pray let me be favourd with a few Lines and 
 I shall answear it, if I am able who am in sincerity 
 and Truth, thy afFec'* Friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 My due respects to thy D"' mother & the Docter. 
 
 For Sir John Rodes 
 
 To be left at Richard 
 Marchant 
 In 
 Bath 
 
 Somersetshere 
 
 London 24 3* mo 1701. 
 
 Dearly Beloved & Esteemed Ffrd, — I am sorry 
 indeed for thy indisposition, but not that thou art 
 got abroad, hopeing it will be a means to remedy 
 thy infirmities as thy affection & kindness has been 
 great to me, beyond my deserts, so I perceve it 
 still continues, manifested in thy late kind Invita- 
 tion to the Bath. Could I have been permitted a 
 journey of that length, twould have been to thy 
 own house in Balbar, but so it hath pleased our 
 great & good God by divers Cross providences to 
 exercise my patience in severall afflictions that hath 
 befallen me, first by Infirmity of my own body, 
 which have & doe still continue, but that he also 
 sends more, that I forget my self in great measure 
 because the greater swallows up the Lesser. My 
 dear child Littel Molly, the flower of my flock, 
 (tho that's nothing to parents) for beauty, is taken 
 from us. She dyed this day week and what with 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 177 
 
 the constant affectionate attendance of her mother 
 who always lay with it till the last night, and griefe 
 for its departure, brought such weakness upon her, 
 being great with Child, that the next Evening after 
 it was buryed, she fell in Labour and was attended 
 with such ill circumstances, that we feared we 
 should have lost her before we got help. But 
 when something was administered, she revived a 
 littel, but under such dangerous symptoms, that 
 Dr Hambleton the man midwife was not willing 
 to lay her. But so it pleased God, that this 
 morning early, contrary to hope, she was delivered 
 of a son still born, two months before her account. 
 I see the Lord is all wise. He knows how to 
 make us bow to him and acquiesce with his 
 Doeings. The loss of my Molly went so near me, 
 that it is unutterable, tho I did resign her to God 
 who gave me her, and never durst to ask her life, 
 tho nothing, next to my D'' wife's, would have been 
 so acceptable. But when I thought the Desier of 
 my eye should be taken from my side and her 
 child she went with, both was nothing in Com- 
 petition to her, and oh now, if the Lord spare 
 her to continue with me the time I have to stay 
 and for the good of my Litell ones yet surviveing, 
 I shall esteem it sufficient favour. She is very 
 weak, but we hope things may prove so well that 
 she will recover. As for me, I wrote a letter of 
 15 instant making Complaint to thee of my loss, 
 which then I did apprehend, for She was not de- 
 ceased, together with my own Infirmity of Body 
 that I filled thy Letter with. ... I think a worse 
 ayle attends me, which is my old pain on my breast. 
 
 M 
 
178 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 ... I have advised with many physitians and none 
 yet have been positive what it is, and for my own 
 part I have given up myself into the hand of the 
 Lord. If he sees meet to Discharge me, his will 
 be done. My prayer is not for length of Days, 
 but that he would dayly make me more fitt for 
 him and the hour of that great change. I hope 
 thyself and the Lady thy mother will come to 
 London at y. . . meeting and return to Bath again 
 now that she is from home. ... I had a kind 
 letter from D' John Gratton which I received 
 the evening after I buryed my Child & it was a 
 Comfort to me. I shall be glad of a few lines 
 from thee to hear that the waters have the desierd 
 effect for thy health. With Respects to Thy self 
 & D"' Mother I conclude. Thine in whatsoever I 
 am able 
 
 J. TOMKINS. 
 
 To Sr John Rodes 
 
 Barronet 
 At his Seat at Balber 
 
 Hall 
 near Chesterfield 
 
 Darbyshere. 
 
 London lo 12™ 1701. 
 
 My very D' & Esteemed Ffrd, — I can no longer 
 forbear to send thee to enquire of thy health having 
 sometime waited the favour of an account thereof 
 in answear to mine I sent thee when I remitted thee 
 the advice of D"" Ratcliff.^ I shall be glad to hear 
 that his prescriptions have answeard the end — pray be 
 
 ' John Radcliffe (1650-1714), physician to Queen Anne. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 179 
 
 pleased to give me a few lines. We are busy here 
 what with the Company of some of our Country 
 ffrds come on the account of the Affirmation,^ and 
 meetings about that and other concerns. Yet I 
 think no affair will make me forget thee, for thou 
 art engravd in my heart and I esteemed my self so 
 much concernd in thy welfare, that I am always the 
 better to hear of it — 
 
 Joshua Arnold is here and very honest and 
 zealous — yet safe in his discourse in the meet: 
 suffer: (meeting for sufferings) touching the affair 
 above said ; but our folk are so fraid to lose the 
 sweetness of the previledge that it causes them too 
 much to hasten on the matter and leave their 
 uneasie conscientious Brethren behind — this be- 
 tween thee and me — Tell D' J. Gratton we are 
 sorry he is not with us — the Bill if engrosed in 
 order to be read a 3d time in the house of 
 Commons which is shortly expected to be, so that 
 then there is no roome to expect Reliefe except it 
 be in the house of peers — I shall not enlarge but in 
 D' love to thy self and the Lady thy D' Mother, I 
 am thine in all sincerity 
 
 J. TOMKINS. 
 
 J. Thomson, & J. Binning, & W. Rawlinson, 
 B. Cool, T. Beaven, R. Haydock,^ Tho Aldam & 
 divers Brethren more are with us. W" Pen is now 
 
 ^ The Quakers conscientiously objecting to oathsj their simple 
 affirmation was accepted instead, for the first time, 1696. The 
 affirmation was altered in 1702 and again in 1721. 
 
 ^ Roger Haydock, 1 644-1 696 ; born near Warrington, Lanes; 
 Quaker preacher and writer ; visited Ireland 1680 and Holland 
 1681 ; was often imprisoned; travelled more than thirty-two 
 thousand miles in his wanderings. 
 
i8o A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 pretty well recovered after his lameness & feavour. 
 After he has seen the K — g/ purposes to appear 
 publick which yet he hath not done, having been 
 hinderd by reason of his Indisposition. W"" Awe- 
 bury courts Letetia. 
 
 London 31. 5 mo 1702. 
 
 Dearly Beloved Friend, — Wee got home wel 
 5th day both of us. S. W. was much out of sorts 
 with his hurt he got which oblidged us to make 
 very easie Journey together with the hot weather 
 which in this Citty is very great. I sweat more 
 here in an hour or two walking moderately than I 
 did in a whole day with rideing. We found our 
 Familys well and Friends so W Bingley wife not 
 dead as was reported : The remembrance of that 
 Love flowing from a true heart which thou was 
 pleased so largly to manifest to us remaining upon 
 our Spirits with much sweetnes and gratitude. Thy 
 Dear Mother's great Love is also engageing upon 
 us, and we pray for the blesing of the great God 
 upon you, and that the Truth which has brought us 
 so near together in aiFection of Spirit may be dayly 
 more precious to us, that we in serving the Lord in 
 the knowledge and Sence of Truth, may feel our 
 dayly refreshment and comfort In him : We reached 
 Notingham the night thou left us but mist the path 
 you directed us and took the midle road ; but we got 
 
 ^ " The attack on Penn's property and private rights was veiled 
 under pretences of public good : but he saw through the disguise 
 . . . and felt certain that after what he had done, he should be 
 able to convince the king of his faithfulness to his great trust" 
 (Hepworth Dixon). 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS i8i 
 
 in good time, and the next day to Leiscester, tarryed 
 there first day and had a good Meeting. G. Knipe ^ 
 and W. Rigg had a meeting near us. Next morn- 
 ing we went on and took no more mettings. the 
 people busy at harvest. We also mist of Tho. 
 Zachary at Newport Pagnel : tho we were at same 
 hour in the town. I hope our Dear Friend H. 
 Gouldney and wife are wel come to thy house, 
 G. K. and W. Rig also. I wished and doe wish my 
 self with you, but I see the netts doe sometimes 
 entangle the young men as well as it did the old 
 men in former days — but since my Comeing home, 
 I have answeard the chief end for which I was 
 oblidged to returne the quicker, but I am very easy, 
 being satisfied as it is. There is no great need of 
 such as poor me — if had gone 'twould have been for 
 my improvement not others. Give my Dear Love 
 to H. G. and his wife, and to W. Rawlinson. If so 
 kind as to accompany him so far as thy house, bid 
 them rest some time there, 'tis hot travelling. I 
 called at H. G. house. Family well and M. Russells 
 Family also. Rebecca and Rachael still here. R. 
 Hadock is now this evening seting out for home 
 to be at Watford tomorrow, 'tis not a Discharge, 
 but only Larges by favour of the Warden. I have 
 advised him to call and see thee in his Journey but 
 question it, he is for makeing haste home. W. P. 
 was with several of us to take leaue of him, and is 
 goeing with his wife this evening to D. Wharleys. 
 I have not more to ad, but that Dear Friend I am 
 in all true affection thy assurd FaithfuU Friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 * Of Hawkshead, Lanes ; travelled in the ministry ; died 1709. 
 
1 82 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 My dear Love and Respects to the Lady thy 
 Mother. R. Hadock sets homeward next week 
 his Dear Love to you all. Olivers respects to his 
 Mother. Tell H. G. to Morrow week J. V. and 
 J. B. has appointed another meeting at Edgarth, 
 the first R. H. had has given great Incouragement 
 Excuse bad writeing, being in haste. 
 
 To Sf John Rodes Barrn' 
 
 At His Seat at 
 Balbar Hall 
 
 near Chesterffield 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London g. 6 mo 1702. 
 
 Esteemed Ffriend, — I have thine date 4. 6 mo. 
 I am glad to hear that our D"" fFrd H. G. & his wife 
 is with thee and that he is well, notwithstanding he 
 would not receive our love left with thee for him. 
 I wish you compleate satisfaction together. D' 
 J. G. has sent a Complaint after us (which I have 
 seen) that we did not visit him when so near. 
 When I writ my last W" Bingley's wife was dead, 
 though 1 knew it not. Dyed 7th Day last in the 
 Evening bury*^ at Gilford 3rd Day. W. P. did not 
 goe into Bucks till this day and so for Sussex for the 
 marraige of his Daughter ^ which is intended for the 
 week after next — There is a pennsilvania ship taken 
 by the french lately, where young W" Machell was 
 on board with others that we hear are set ashore in 
 
 ' The marriage of Penn's daughter Letitia to Wm. Aubrey took 
 place on the 20th August (6th month). 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 183 
 
 Ireland — The relation of T. Zachary, which thou 
 hints, and I have heard at Large in H. G.'s letter to 
 M. Russell, is an unaccountable story, but I have 
 not had oppertunity to see him since he came home, 
 so am ignorant of his defence which I doubt will be 
 weak — Tell H. G. I am no man for publick news so 
 cannot accomodate him — suppose Mick Russell may. 
 I dare not be so vain to wish my self with you. 
 But I am sure, should be glad of such an opper- 
 tunity, were it but for 2 or 3 hours. I have been 
 disapointed in my late journey in not attaining to 
 what I did propose in it, but for what I had, am 
 fully satisfyed, and the conversation with thee was 
 not of the less part. It would be kind, if thou 
 wouldst come up with H. G. to London with thy 
 mother and so for the Bath — Dear Friend in that 
 dear love which never changes I am Thy faithfuU 
 fFriend 
 
 J. TOMKINS. 
 
 Give my D"^ love to thy Mother & to H. G. & 
 his wife & to the Docter. 
 
 To S"^ John Rodes Barronett 
 at his seat at Balbar Hall. 
 
 London i6. 8 mo 1702. 
 
 Esteemed and Dearly beloved Friend, — 
 Though it be long that I have been Silent, yet 
 not without thought of thee and the kindness 
 that I was partaker of when at your house. The 
 love I bear in my heart to thee wiU never decay 
 so long as we abide in that love, which God hath 
 
184 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 shed abroad in our hearts — that is the Roote and 
 spring of our Love. I pray God keep us here 
 to the end. My heart is united to thee in true 
 affection, and shoud be glad of more frequent 
 conversation by Letters ; for now Winter is so near, 
 I dispair of seeing thee in this Citty, neither do I 
 understand that thou went to the Bath. Suppose 
 the Queen's beeing there discouraged, for I know 
 thou loves quietness. Our Dear Friend W. P. 
 we understand had the favour to be with her near 
 two hours. He is expected this evening in town — 
 
 Our Friend J. Haddock is come again to Citty, in 
 order to terme about his Law Suite. The noise against 
 him which was made about Lancaster Assize came to 
 nothing, being cleared of both Indictements, which 
 was the whole of the severall score that was pre- 
 tended was to be brought against him at the Assize. 
 
 Give Dear Love to our Dear Friend J. Gratton. 
 Tell him we shall take care of the Lawson ^ 
 manuscript, and it had been reprinted ere now 
 or near it but that the M. Meet:^ is under 
 consideration about printing his whole works 
 which yet they have not concluded — As to In- 
 specting the will of Stockdale, twas sometime ere 
 I had the note from H. G. and being not so ac- 
 quainted at Docters Comons as J. Field, I desiered 
 him to doe it, who returns me answear : that the 
 Proctor would know where said Stockdale Dyed. 
 If in Yorkshere, then its not to be found here, 
 but in the Dioces of York, but if he deceased in 
 Darbyshere or Notingham, we can search here. 
 Dear Friend excuse that this has not been quicker 
 ^ Thomas Lawson, see p. 20. 2 Monthly meeting. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 185 
 
 dispatched. I gave my Wife and Children a few 
 weeks Liberty from home to be at Hertford, and 
 every week was with them, with some other occur- 
 rences that made me omitt the Looking after this 
 . no sooner, which I hope thou will excuse. 
 
 One of the Friends that travels in America are 
 returned, one John Salkell,^ who has had as great 
 Service as any — by our Dear Friend W. P.'s account. 
 He was took with an ague comeing on board which 
 held him all the voyage, and had like to have held 
 him, but since on Shore is recovered prety well — 
 he is a Cumberland young man went thither from 
 Ireland. The Grand fleet is dayly expected home, 
 an Indifferent Summers work for so great a navy 
 as hardly ever was seen before. Powti (i') is out with 
 the Dunkirk squadron supposed to be gone towards 
 east Country for Navall Stores of which the French 
 have had none come in all this summer : and the 
 Spaniard have got there Plate fleet safe home. So 
 that he will have mony, or rather the French, to 
 cary on war next summer. Its expected the Par- 
 liament well call this expedition to account but I 
 don't use to trouble my Friends with news, and 
 My Wife is by me and intreates the remembrance 
 of her dear Love and Respects to thy dear Mother 
 and to thy self. Which I also intreat you to accept 
 from thy FaithfuU and affectionate Friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 My love to the Docter. Is Kathlene quite 
 gone off.'' 
 
 * John Salkell, or Salkeld ; born in Westmorland 1672 ; emi- 
 grated with his wife to Pennsylvania 1705 ; died 1739. 
 
1 86 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 To S' John Rodes Barnt 
 at his seate at Balbar hall 
 
 Near Chesterfiield 
 Darbyshire. 
 
 London q — 1702. 
 12 
 
 Dear & Esteemed Ffriend, — I have thine of 5 
 instant, and am heartily glad if I can be serviceable 
 to thee in any respect, or to any of thine, for the 
 Love I bare in my heart to thee is beyond Expres- 
 sion, the root thereof springing from the love of 
 God. I am sorry thou may (be) disapointed in thy 
 good intention (for their sake) of visiting them,^ 
 beleeving twould have contributed to their pacifica- 
 tion under the extremitie of greife, for I know by 
 what I have seen from thy mother, they must desier 
 a visit from thee, yet I am tender of pressing for 
 two reasons, ist considering the difficulty of the 
 roads & 2d but thou has another sister with thee, 
 who loves thee, & it will be a refreshment to her 
 that she has thy company which I know also is 
 acceptable to her. Please to give my hearty respects 
 to her — 
 
 I perceive by thine that the littel son is deceased 
 as well as the daughter of thy sister at Bloxam,^ 
 which thy Dear Mother did also advice me in hers 
 of the 2d instant, and is like vinegar pourd into 
 a wound to the Mother of them, who like Rachell 
 of old, refuses to be comforted for her children, 
 
 ^ Reference to the Thorntons of Bloxham, Lincolnshire. 
 ^ Ann, wife of William Thornton, of Bloxham. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 187 
 
 because they are not. I write this night to answer 
 the request of the Lady, for I have a sympathy 
 with them, having buryed a daughter of equall age, 
 within a few weeks. And the sorrow for her cost 
 me also the loss of a son — Oh that we could know 
 our minds brought into the submission to God's 
 will that we might say with good old Ely, when he 
 heard the prophet Samuell pronounce those heavy 
 things w""" God would bring upon his ffamily, who 
 submitted and said " It is the Lord, let him do what 
 seemeth him good. . . ." Samuell Waldenfield is still 
 out of health. He was so when I writ the last to 
 thee troubled with a great Dizeness in his head, not 
 daring to adventure abroad alone — We have also a 
 sudden loss happend to us in the Death of Michell 
 Russel senior. He was last first day at Gracious 
 Street meet., had been troubled for 3 or 4 
 days past with some indisposition of body, was 
 advised to be blooded, but deferred till 7th day 
 and when that day came, said twould hinder 
 going to meet, so went, and did speak a few 
 sentences there, and it being a full meeting, whether 
 the weight thereof did occasion an unusual perturba- 
 tion of mind that might affect the animale spirits ; 
 but so it was that as soon as he had sat down, was 
 observed to sit down with a pretty full couler & 
 presently fell into a pale Countenance & put up his 
 hand to one side of his head and sank down as a 
 dead man. N. M. & his bro: H. G. &c. was near 
 him, and I understand they did support him from 
 falling or sliping off the seate and rub"^ his head, 
 hoping it might be only a swooning fit. But that 
 caused an unusuall notice in the assembly, so they 
 
i88 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 took him forth to his house. Dan Philips was at 
 hand, and they did bleed him & cup him, which for 
 a littel space did recover in some measure his spirits, 
 but he soon relapsed, and notwithstanding all their 
 endeavours, he departed this life at 8 th hour that 
 Evening. His wife a sorrowful widow, his son at 
 Norwich and his sons wife at Stratford, but lately 
 recoverd of an indisposition of vapours and much 
 like to Lunacy. Tis a sorrowful family. . . . 
 Yesterday we buryed our antient ffriend and 
 minister of Christ, Thomas Gilpin ^ of Oxford- 
 shere, an orriginall of the primitive Quakers both for 
 purity of Doctrine and conversation. He desierd 
 that W" Bingley ^ might be a witness of his inter- 
 ment, they having been old fFelow travellers in the 
 work of the ministry — My dear ffriend I approve of 
 thy notion concerning R. Clar: and the parson. It 
 answears my sentiments of them exactly. ... I am 
 glad the distemper of the stone has left thee. As 
 for thy old distemper, I think nothing will cure thee 
 of that, but a good wife — I shall be glad to see the 
 D' if he will favour us with his company when in 
 the city. With dear love I rest Thy afFectiond 
 ffriend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 A ffl-iend lately recommended to me a daughter 
 of Isaac Heming as a person sutable for thee if thou 
 shall think so also. 
 
 J-T. 
 
 I One of the earliest persons to join Friends in London about 
 1694 was Thomas Gilpin, of Warborough, Oxfordshire. 
 ' Writer and preacher ; died 1715, aged sixty-four. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 189 
 
 To S"" John Rodes 
 
 Barronett 
 At his seat at 
 
 Balber Hall 
 near 
 
 Chesterffield 
 Darbyshere. 
 
 2 1 St 9™ 1702. 
 Dear and Esteemd Ffriend, — I sent thee lately 
 a few lines with inclosed account of the late victory 
 at Vigo/ w* since, hath been caryed on by some (?) to 
 be of great disadvantage to the enemie, whatever 
 advantage it will be to this nation — That letter was 
 designed as an evidence of my remembrance of thee, 
 and tho' I can not yet obtaine time pertlculerly to 
 reply to thy kind letter date 23 8 mo last, yet, this 
 may certifye, that the busines thou was pleasd to 
 intrust me in the letter, touching some good Lisbon 
 wine, whit, that thou orderd me to send thee — I 
 have now done it. It went last 6th day hence by 
 Bartholomew Fretwell, one of the Sheffield carriers, 
 who goes by the same way as does A. Allen. I could 
 not furnish thee out a cellar with such wine of that 
 sort, as I did beleeve thou deserved, it being the 
 latter end of the year. Vintners are most likely to 
 have the best. I did buy it of Tho: Cox, and told 
 him who it was for, and I beleeve he has taken care 
 
 ' Sir George Rooke, with the combined English and Dutch 
 fleets, defeated the French fleet and Spanish galleons in the port 
 of Vigo, October 12, 1702. 
 
I90 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 that thou hast his best. It is coverd with Canvas 
 to be prevent their taping of it with pencers. 
 The cost of T. C. bill is thus : viz. : — 
 
 2 Galons Quart wine best Lisbon Whit 
 
 at 5.4 p Gain £5 ^ ° 
 
 2 Casks 048 
 
 Canvas to cover them . • ■ • 014 
 
 Portridge at hous . . • ■ 016 
 
 £5 15 6 
 
 I hope it may please thee, that I may not lose my 
 Imployment to serve thee again in the like or any 
 other affair wherein thou Esteeme me capable to 
 serve thee, for I can doe it freely, because 1 love 
 thee heartily — I hope thy D"' Mother will not suffer 
 thee to dwell alone in that large prison by thy self 
 these dark, short days, and long nights — We are all 
 in health at present. Wishing thy self to injoy 
 that health with many more blessings is the desire 
 of thy sincere friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 To S'' John Rodes Barronet 
 
 at his seate at Balbar Hall 
 Near Chesterfield 
 
 Darbeysheire. 
 
 London 28. 11™ 1702. 
 
 Dear Friend, — I Love thee in that Love which 
 reaches over Sea and Land, and the remembrance of 
 thee continues constantly with me, heartily desiere- 
 ing the blessings of the Kingdom of Christ Jesus 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 191 
 
 our Lord may be dayly increased upon thy Soul. 
 I did write last, but have seen a letter from thee 
 to our Freind H. G. that advises of thy Lonely 
 dwelling this long nights and short days ; It is 
 much thou hast not diverted thy self by a Journey 
 to Bloxam where I understand that thy Dear 
 Mother is, whose company is always agreable, and 
 the more, that now Esqur Thornton^ is deceased 
 whose conversation was antipodes to thee. I under- 
 stand by Letter from the Lady Rodes that thy 
 sister Thornton is under much affliction for the 
 Loss of an only daughter, and is Augmented by a 
 son of hers very weak with convultion Fitts — both 
 which she bears in much sorrow even exceeding, 
 which may prove very prejudicall to her own health 
 and the whole Family. She Loves thee and no 
 doubt, 'twould abate her Greiff if thou wouldst 
 Afford her a visit at this Juncto — I have writ to thy 
 Dear Mother to comfort her under these exersises, 
 and that which adds to hers is that she cannot be 
 with thee, for whom she is also concerned — I 
 understand Dr Heathcot was at Bloxam, but none 
 can Baile those whom the Messenger of Death doth 
 arrest, whether young or old, the Innocent or the 
 Sinners — The Lord prepare us all for that great 
 change — I understand thou received the white wine 
 safe and shal be glad to hear from thee if thou art 
 free of the late distemper the Stone — My dear wife 
 is now about the house again ; She has brought me 
 a brave Girl. O that I could perswade thee to be so 
 happy, as to be capable to receive such blessings. 
 They are lasting comforts as well as carefuU com- 
 ^ John Rodes' uncle, Ciprian Thornton. 
 
192 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 forts — There is now pretty much discourse of W. M. 
 endeavouring to match his son with M. C. Thou 
 lets every one step in before thee — There is another 
 of S Grooms daughters grown up and seems a very 
 likely young Person — Dear W. P. is in and about 
 the citty attending about his American affair ^ — pray 
 give remembrance of very dear Love to the Lady 
 thy Mother, when thou sees her and to Dear J. 
 Gratt — not forgetting the Doctor. I understand by 
 J. G. that your County much desieres two of Tho : 
 Lawsons bookes should be printed in one vol and wil 
 take of an hundred of, viz. Mite in the Treasury and 
 of the Call, wages, etc. of the ministry of Christ and 
 of Anti Christ which our 2d dayes meeting have con- 
 sented to, and they are in the Press, to be Intituled 
 the 2d vol — the first being to be printed afterwards, 
 viz. of the Baptism and supper and Dagon's fall be- 
 fore the Ark. There is also considerable quantity of 
 sheets in manuscript, which if proper, may be printed 
 for the 3d voU which will conclude the whole of his 
 works — S. Hunt^ has been lately here, I think not 
 gone ; has written a peice which he calles a Catechism 
 for Children wherin he has not performed the work 
 according to the Title, to the satisfaction of our 
 
 ^ " Anne, like her sister Mary, had been a firm friend to the 
 Governor of Pennsylvania. But, even before King William's 
 death, he had been somewhat relieved from his anxieties on account 
 of the colony. . . . The accession of Anne put an end for a time to 
 these intrigues ; but troubles continued to increase on account of 
 the Colony ; and family circumstances, within a year or two of 
 that event, induced Penn himself to make proposals of a surrender 
 to the Crown" (Hepworth Dixon). 
 
 " Samuel Hunt, of Nottingham ; wrote " Instructions for Chil- 
 dren and Others by Way of Question and Answer," first pub- 
 lished 1703. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 193 
 
 meeting, which they did intimate to him sometime 
 since by letter; and then J. Hart at his request 
 presed it again upon them, which they kindly reply 
 unto to J. H. : But when Samuell came up he 
 altered the said manuscript, supposeing they were 
 (no doubt) amendments, but still they are of the 
 Judgment. It is not yet proper for the publick — I 
 doubt our Friend S. H. is much offended, and if 
 should return home so, may prove to be his own 
 prejudice, therefore if thou see J. Grat give him this 
 Item. Pray his moderateing Samuell, but I desiere 
 make none privy to this but J. G. designing nothing 
 herein but wel wishes for S. H., though neither 
 J. Field, nor my self, was concerned in the censure 
 of said Catechism this last examination. J. F. tells 
 me has lately presumed upon thee the charge of 
 postage of account of affairs to America, which I 
 told him I did beleeve thou wouldst pardon — 
 
 Richard Baker of Black Fryers has had a certifi- 
 cate from this Citty to Chipenham in order to 
 marry N. Gouldney — My wife desiers me to pre- 
 sent her kind love to thy self with my own also is 
 what offers more at this time From thy Lo: Faith- 
 full Friend 
 
 John Tomkins. 
 
 Richard Clarridge gives me account who I saw 
 this day that he had writen to thee and also to the 
 parson thy neighbour on the subject of Baptism etc. 
 Of which I shal take it favourably if wilt give me 
 thy sentiments and what the priests are upon. 
 What R. C. has writ to him, being as I understand 
 not a compleat answear but a Letter to him. 
 
194 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 To S'' John Rodes 
 These 
 
 London 2^ lo™ 1703. 
 Dearly Beloved Friend, — It is now 9 days since 
 thou left us, by which time, we expected an account 
 of thy safe arrivall at home, being the more con- 
 cernd by reason of a violent storm ^ of wind, of 
 which we have not know the like, not the oldest 
 man that we know of. It began to blow so hard here 
 from South west, and by west, last 4th day viz 24 
 last mo, at which time one man of Warr was lost 
 off Harwich and damage in divers other places — 
 and so continued turbulent till last 6th day 26, 
 about nth hour night, and held in an extreame 
 maner, till past 7th hour next morning — The 
 violence therof, not only did Infinit damage by 
 Land and Sea, also Country as well as Citty, but 
 killd many, and affrighted the whole Citty, bringing 
 down to the ground some houses, and multitudes 
 of Chimneys and Tileing ; wherby severall were kild, 
 as appears by Inclosd bill of Mortality for last week. 
 More will be inserted in the next. It will be endles 
 to Insert what we already hear of the dismall effects 
 of this Storm, which we look upon, as a Judgment 
 upon the Nation, and will be found to be so. The 
 Merchants and tradeing part have not had such a 
 
 * This was the "Great Storm" of Nov. 26, 27, 1703. The loss 
 sustained in London alone was calculated at ^2,000,000, and the 
 Eddystone Lighthouse was destroyed. 
 
LETTERS OF JOHN TOMKINS 195 
 
 scourge in their memory so generall. One Mer- 
 chant ship at Plymouth called the Sarah Mary 
 Hopewell, out ward bound for Barbadoes, value 
 40,000, is lost — where many Friends were con- 
 cerned — and perticulerly N. Marks, many hundred 
 pounds — besides sundry other ships of considerable 
 effects, which effect Friends perticulerly. BristoU 
 has felt the same smart : Sundry of the Queans 
 ships lost there, and besides Merchants ships, one 
 perticulerly from Virginia, which had 900 hogsheads 
 of Tobacco on board, and withal such a mighty 
 Innundation of water occasiond by excessive 
 heighth of Tide, that great quantitys of Tobacco, 
 Sugar, salt etc. was destroyd, and the loss therby 
 much surmounts the damage done by the wind. 
 Very great Tides we have also had at London, since 
 the storm, that has spoyled much goods on South- 
 wark side especially, and much People and Cattell 
 drowned about Bristol!, all along the Severn side, 
 towards Gloster. And the Packet boats, with 60 
 passengers, we hear lost in their passage between 
 Wales and Aust in Glostershere near Oldston. I 
 refer thee to the Inclosed, printed dayly currant 
 and most authentick of prints, exept Gazet, to save 
 transcribing, which may not be so compleate ; only 
 I observe the charge of postage which upon so 
 extraordinary occasion thou will pas by. No busi- 
 nes done here in respect to trade at Exchange, but 
 relateing and hearing accounts of losses abroad etc. 
 The Lords hand is in all this and it will be well 
 if people would bear the Rod and him that hath 
 appointed it, for there is a voice which is teaching 
 in this Calamity — I hope to hear from thee sud- 
 
 N 2 
 
196 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 denly my true love and respects to the lady thy 
 Dear Mother and to thyself From thy Faithful 
 affectionate Friend 
 
 John Tomklins. 
 
 Jo: Baines dear love is to thee my dear love to 
 D' J. G. let me know if mett with any Storm or 
 had any of those bad effects in your Country. 
 
LETTERS OF SILVANUS BEVAN 
 1719— 1742 
 
London, Aug' i6th 1719. 
 
 Dear Brother,^ — I am sorry the first occation 
 of my wrighting to thee, since my being in your 
 family, should be on so melancholy an occation, 
 wherein I am equally concerned with, viz : the 
 misfortune of father's ^ being overturned in a charriot 
 near Highgate about 10 a clock fifth day night last, 
 on his return from seeing a patient, by which he 
 received a violent contusion of the brain, and died in 
 about half an hour. Thou may easily imagine the 
 surprise and affliction it is to us in w"* all his friends 
 here joyn. I am unfitt to advise thee how to allay 
 the sorrow thou wilt be under without referring 
 thee to submit to Providence. 
 
 Thy presence will be absolutely necessary by the 
 return of this messenger, tho' cannot tell whether 
 we shall be able to keep him unburied till next 
 fourth day, from Gratious Street Meeting, which 
 we partly intend, but it is not positively resolved 
 yett whether then or second day. 
 
 I leave it to thee to dispatch the messenger to 
 Balbrough with this letter w* will also inform 
 Grandmother and Unkle. 
 
 I am, with simpathy with (thee) in this affliction 
 thy affectionate Brother 
 
 SiLVANus Bevan. 
 
 ^ This letter is to his brother-in-law, Cornelius Heathcote. Sil- 
 vanus Bevan married Martha Heathcote, Sir John Rodes' niece. 
 
 2 Dr. Gilbert Heathcote. 
 
 199 
 
200 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 We did not send a messenger sooner because we 
 feared it might be too great a hazard of thy health 
 to hasten to the funeral under the dejection of mind 
 this accident would occation. 
 
 To Sir John Rodes. 
 
 London. March 25th 1742. 
 
 Dear Uncle, — As the information we had of thy 
 late extream fitt of sickness by D' Wales (in order 
 to consult D" Mead ^) gave us great concern, so the 
 latter accounts we have had since from him and also 
 by Gilly has given us great satisfaction in that thou 
 art recovered to thy usual state of health, excepting 
 what must be the effect of time, viz., the recovery 
 of thy flesh and strength. I hope thou received 
 the hamper of wine safe, the Clarett, Hermitage, 
 Burgundy, and Champane I had of a French wine 
 Merch', who engaged to put up the best. The 
 old Madeira 30 years old, the Canary and Cyprus 
 18 years old were out of my own cellar and the 
 Usquebach is a present of D' Meads and is very 
 old and the best, which he recommended as a good 
 remedy for those constant vomitings thou wast then 
 attended with. 
 
 Last week I dined att Sir John Heathcote's where 
 was thy neighbour Esqre White. . . . Thy own 
 infirmitys engage thee too much to be very atten- 
 
 ' Richard Mead (1673-1754), son of Matthew Mead, minister of 
 Stepney, who was ejected for nonconformity. He was appointed 
 physician to George II. in 1725, and wrote many medical treatises, 
 including one on " The influence of the sun and moon on human 
 bodies." 
 
SILVANUS SEVAN'S LETTERS 201 
 
 tive to public affairs, tho' the late change of the 
 Ministry in the removal of Sir Robert Walpole 
 and the struggles of the other party to enjoy the 
 fruits of a long opposition by succeeding to places 
 of Proffit and honour very much engages the 
 discourse of the town, and plainly show what 
 were the motives of so violent opposition. It 
 was very much the surprise of everybody that the 
 Duke of Argile ^ resigned his places, tho' many are 
 well pleased with it. He has showed on this 
 occation great heat and ambition and had engaged 
 his Honour to the Tory's (who are about 80) 
 that if they would heartily joyne with the discon- 
 tented Whigs to change the Ministry, they should 
 share with them in enjoying places, and accordingly 
 severall of the most violent of the Tory's were 
 insisted upon to be in the Treasury and Admiralty, 
 which the King^ resented in such a manner that 
 he declared he would not employ any whose known 
 principles were opposite to the intrest of his family ; 
 and so, finding he could not perform his engage- 
 ment, he threw up his Commissions and places 
 which immediately were given to others. The Earl 
 of Stair ^ is made Field Marshall, and is going to 
 Holland and is to comand the Forces, the King 
 and the Prince* are reconciled and I hope all our 
 party disputes will be so qualified as that they may 
 apply to the good of the Country. 
 
 I intend to send thy watch (which has been 
 
 1 Archibald Campbell, 3rd duke of Argyll (1682-1761). 
 
 ' George II. 
 
 ' John Dalrymple, 2nd earl of Stair (1673-1747). 
 
 ' Frederick, Prince of Wales, father of George III., died 1751. 
 
202 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 ready some time) by Joseph Broadbent, there has 
 been a great deal done to it and the repeating 
 part is repaired. 
 
 The continued severity of the weather affects my 
 Lungs very much. My wife is in good health and 
 both joyn in dear love to thee and I am Thy 
 affectionate Kinsman 
 
 SiLVANUs Bevan. 
 
 [There were to be no more letters in the Quaker 
 Post-bag. Sir John Rodes died Sept. 1 743, and was 
 buried in the Friends' burial-ground at Handsworth 
 Woodhouse. There was once a simple head-stone 
 to mark his grave, but it was removed in the last 
 century.] 
 
 FINIS 
 
 Printed by Ballantyne, Hanson 6= Co. 
 Edinburgh 6" London. 
 

 •jxorefi^g £d tAjt 000^ Ordcf u^t} ei?nffa^ /Kent ^i/Aa\fC/ti-&cf^o[^igff /^/ 
 
 ',(/ cfcv yai/ttj utucr tA0Ct/ IX^? 
 
 
 
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 M0I _/lc, ■.J'T^^O&iZiiee'fy^ 
 
 
 ^^ 
 
 
 AGE CERTIFICATE. 
 
202 A QUAKER POST-BAG 
 
 ready some time) by Joseph Broadbent, there has 
 been a great deal done to it and the repeating 
 part is repaired. 
 
 The continued severity of the weather affects my 
 Lungs very much. My wife is in good health and 
 both joyn in dear love to thee and I am Thy 
 affectionate Kinsman 
 
 SiLVANus Bevan. 
 
 [There were to be no more letters in the Quaker 
 Post-bag. Sir John Rodes died Sept. 1743, and was 
 buried in the Friends' burial-ground at Handsworth 
 Woodhouse. There was once a simple head-stone 
 to mark his grave, but it was removed in the last 
 century.] 
 
 FINIS 
 
 Printed by Ballantyne, Hanson 6= Co. 
 Edinburgh 6= London. 
 

 
 
 V ami Sun tarn ^fTleiycwe S'iiM^Mi G!iA&rnad mfia&if dor^lrmaiieri/ 
 
 
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 AGE CERTIFICATE. 
 
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