MEMOL, 
 
 MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
BX 7796 .P36 A3 1859 
 Pease, Martha Lucy Aggs, 
 
 1824-1853. 
 A memoir of Martha Lucy 
 
 Srctto« 
 
\ 
 
1 
 
 I 
 
/f/0 
 
 A M E .Ar 0 I R 
 
 OF 
 
 MARTHA LUCY PEAi^E. 
 
■"AY 1« 1918 
 
 A MEMOIR ^%e/CAL st^J\^ 
 
 MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 Those that seek lue early, shall find lue.'" 
 
 Proverbs viii. i; 
 
 PRINTED FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION 
 1859 
 
LONDON ; 
 RICH^.-RD EABRETT, PRI?^TER. 
 MAYIK LA>rE. 
 
PEEFACE. 
 
 " She, being dead, yet speaketh." 
 
 My dear Grandchildren, 
 
 The above Scripture language has again and 
 again arisen, whilst re-perusing the letters and 
 memoranda of my beloved daughter — your 
 precious mother. They testif}^ to the power of 
 that grace by which she was, what she was, and 
 which, from almost her earliest years, wrought 
 effectively in her soul, to the subduing of that 
 which was inimical to the Divine will ; intro- 
 ducing into the new birth unto righteousness, a 
 being born again in Christ, — He who had 
 
IV 
 
 PREFACE. 
 
 redeemed, who had sanctified, and ultimately 
 presented her faultless before the presence of 
 his glory, with exceeding joy. 
 
 Your dear mother, in holy confidence and 
 strong faith, committed you, her infant children, 
 unto the unslumbering Shepherd of Israel, who 
 had safely coaducted her own youthful feet 
 amidst many and varied fascinating allurements, 
 — gently leading beside the still waters — causing 
 her to repose in the green pastures of life, and 
 to experience the Divine banner to be extended 
 over her, with the joyful assurance, that, that 
 banner was redeeming love. 
 
 Portions of this Memoir appeared in the 
 "Annual Monitor'' for the year 1855 ; to which 
 have been added extracts from letters, and a few 
 of her memoranda. The selection has been 
 made in the earnest desire that it may not only 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 V 
 
 be fraught with interest, but also that it may 
 tend, through the Divine blessing, to your 
 spiritual instruction, — attracting your steps in 
 the early morning of your day into the path of 
 holiness ; that, when your warfare is accom- 
 pHshed, you may unite with her in the anthem 
 of praise, and be admitted into the same glorious 
 inheritance — into hfe eternal. 
 
 Your affectionately attached 
 
 Gkandmothek. 
 
MEMOIR 
 
 OP 
 
 MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 The following memento of one, who in the 
 morning of her day, was called to her heavenly 
 home, is intended, not as an encomium on her 
 virtues, but as serving to magnify that grace 
 whereby she was redeemed from the spirit of 
 the world, and prepared, through abounding love 
 and mercy, for one of the many mansions pro- 
 
 B 
 
2 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 mised by our gracious Lord to his followers ; and 
 in her was early fulfilled his Divine request — 
 " Father I will that they also, whom thou hast 
 given me, be with me where I am ; that they 
 may behold my glory Her experience of the 
 Lord's goodness and love is given, that it may 
 serve as a beacon to the tempest-tossed voyager ; 
 as a warning to the thoughtless passer through 
 this world, and as an encouragement to the 
 pilgrim seeking a better country — even a 
 heavenly. 
 
 Martha Lucy Pease was the only surviving 
 daughter of Henry and Mary Aggs, and was 
 born at Upton House, Essex, on the 15th of 
 Fifth Month, 1824. Her early years were 
 marked by great sweetness of character ; and, 
 possessing a warm and affectionate disposition, 
 she was especially beloved by those around her : 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 3 
 
 evincing by kindness and courtesy of manner 
 her desire to promote their comfort. Whilst 
 very young she gave evidence of having been 
 visited by the convictions of the Holy Spirit ; 
 and much can be remembered which shewed 
 that her tender mind was attracted to that 
 blessed Saviour, who graciously said, " Suffer 
 little children to come unto me, and forbid them 
 not." 
 
 The following are extracts from letters written 
 about the ages of six, nine, and twelve years : — 
 
 IVhite Cottage, 1830. 
 
 My very dear Mamma, 
 
 I hope thou wilt accept the texts I have written 
 on this paper : " He will never leave nor forsake 
 thee.'' " Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be 
 clean : wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.'' 
 
 B 2 
 
4 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 ^' Have mercy upon me, 0 God^ according to thy 
 loving-kindness. 
 
 PLEASURES OF RELIGION. 
 
 'Tis religion that can give 
 
 Sweetest pleasures while I live ; 
 
 'Tis religion must supply 
 Solid comfort when I die. 
 
 After death its joys will be 
 
 Lasting as eternity. 
 Be the living God my friend. 
 
 Then my bliss will never end. 
 
 Eighth Month 17 th, 1833. 
 
 My ever dear Parents^ 
 
 Thank thee, my dear mamma^ for thy nice, kind, 
 and acceptable letter. I very often think of you, 
 and every day love you more and more. "Absence 
 makes the heart grow fonder, says the poet, and I 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 5 
 
 am sure I quite agree here with him. I am very 
 sorry for being ever disobedient to thee, and when I 
 think of it sometimes it makes me feel quite un- 
 happy. I very often think of the little verse — " Oh, 
 if I could but meet again, 't would be my play to do 
 her will; and she should never sigh again for my 
 behaving ill." But we_, I hope, I trust, will have 
 the privilege of meeting again, and then, it shall 
 be my play to do thy will, and thou shall never 
 have to sigh again for my behaving ill. I am 
 also very sorry, if I have ever been unkind to 
 dear little Harry, and pray tell him so ; I should 
 be very glad to see him. I was much grieved to 
 
 hear of ^s sudden death ; but I hope he was 
 
 prepared for it. 
 
 Believe me, always your affectionate child, 
 
 Martha Lucy Aggs. 
 
6 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 Frome, Dec. Uh, 1836. 
 
 My dear , 
 
 I have thought a great deal of my poor cousins, 
 
 especially . I do not at all know what state of 
 
 mind she was in when she died ; but I truly hope 
 she now wears a crown of glory, and that all her 
 sorrows are now past. I believe her dear father went 
 to that Paradise above ; and oh, what a happy 
 meeting, to meet her Saviour and her God, and to 
 sing, with her beloved father, praises to God and 
 to the Lamb for ever ! I sometimes think I should 
 like to die, but I know not the sting ; and if I were 
 to die now, O what would be my portion ? I hope 
 to be spared to conquer my temper, and to be more 
 kind and obedient to dear papa, mamma, and thee, 
 my dear governess. I will pray for strength, and 
 will try. 
 
 Dear , the young must die as well as the 
 
 old ; and I ought to be ready, — why should He spare 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 7 
 
 me^ more than any of my neighbours. We are prone 
 to sin : it is with very great difficulty that I give up 
 to dear little Harry ; but when I remember that 
 every time I give up^ it will be less difficult the next 
 time^ I think it quite worth while to do it ; besides 
 giving him pleasure ; and these words generally come 
 to my mindj " Blessed are the peace-makers^ for 
 they shall be called the children of God V Oh, 
 ^vhat an honour to be called a child of God ! "Who 
 would not be easier to be called that ? . . . . When 
 I make my poor simple prayer to God at nighty I do 
 not forget thee — I pray that thy pain may be dimi- 
 nished. I would cheerfully bear one half of it for 
 thee^ if it should be His will. Indeed, I do love 
 thee, and, though I am often naughty, I am always 
 sorry when I let the tempter have so much dominion 
 
 over me 
 
 Thy sincerely aflPectionate pupil, 
 
 Martha Lucy Aggs. 
 
8 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 We may perceive by the foregoing letters 
 that this dear child was early in the practice of 
 self-examination ; and absence from those she 
 so tenderly loved, caused her at times to scru- 
 tinize her conduct towards them with undue 
 severity ; for, although of a high spirit, her 
 peculiarly sensitive feelings evidenced that the 
 momentary impulse was soon brought under 
 subjection. Her governess, to whom the last 
 letter was addressed, was a person of deeply 
 religious experience and cultivated intellect, but 
 of delicate health. To this friend she became 
 much attached, and letters she occasionally 
 wrote to her, evince the tenderness of her con- 
 science ; and that in the fear of God this young 
 disciple was endeavouring to pursue her heaven- 
 ward journey. As she grew up, continuing to 
 yield to the tendering visitations of Divine love. 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 9 
 
 her mind seems gradually to have matured in 
 the Christian life — the life of God in the soul — 
 she became very prayerful ; spent portions of 
 time daily in studiously reading the Holy 
 Scriptures, in seeking, and sometimes sweetly 
 partaking of communion with her God and 
 Saviour. It became evident, by her increasingly 
 watchful and self-denying conduct — her closely 
 guarded conversation — her readiness to sacrifice 
 her own pleasure to promote the comfort of 
 those around her — her desire to protect the 
 character of the absent, to put the kindest 
 construction upon the motives and actions of 
 others ; so gentle and diffident, yet evincing 
 much Christian courage, that the seed of the 
 Kingdom was sown in good ground ; and that, 
 giving all diligence, she was adding to faith 
 virtue, knowledge, patience, charity. 
 
10 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 The following letters to her brother Henry, 
 her junior by three years, are so characteristic 
 of her tenderness and love, and exhibit such 
 anxiety for his spiritual progress, that they 
 seem to claim a special place in the present 
 memoir ; particularly as a few years later, after 
 a short illness, he was summoned to an early 
 grave. 
 
 Croydon, June lUh, 1841. 
 
 My very dear Brother, 
 
 I HAVE been looking forward to the 12th with great 
 pleasure, my dear Henry. Not that I am to have 
 the delight of seeing thee on that day, but to make 
 up for that, by writing thee a letter^ to greet thee on 
 the fourteenth anniversary of thj natal day; and 
 mayst thou, my dear, see many happy returns of that 
 day, and on each succeeding one mayst thou be able 
 to feel that thou hast made progress heavenward, as 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 11 
 
 well as risen in eminence among thy fellow-travellers 
 in this vale of sorrow. 
 
 Dorchester, Feb. 25th, 1842. 
 
 My very DEAR Henry, 
 
 .... I hope thou endeavours to profit by any 
 advice he (thy brother) may give thee, remembering 
 how much more knowledge and experience he has ; 
 and, my dear Henry, knowledge is power,^^ — is it 
 not so ? I was pleased to hear of J. J. G. and wife 
 being at Newington, and was also glad thou liked 
 what they had to say, and I hope thou profits from 
 it. Thou hast the privilege of attending meetings 
 which thy sister is now deprived of. Oh, my dear H., 
 value it highly : and whilst thou art at meeting, do 
 try to let thy thoughts be centred on the right object, 
 and not wandering hither and thither. Do not, my 
 dearest, forget, while thou hast so many blessings, 
 the Source from whence they flow, and the Giver of 
 
12 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 them all. If thou art not grateful, how canst thou 
 expect them to be continued. Thy sister often thinks 
 of thee — yes, very often — and most earnestly desires 
 thy welfare in every way. 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Dorchester, May I5th, 1842. 
 
 The town clock has just now struck twelve, the 
 chimes are still going, and I have sat up a few 
 minutes later, that I might address my first lines 
 to thee on this eighteenth anniversary of my birth- 
 day. Eighteen ! How time rolls on. I know I 
 might have employed my time much better than I 
 have ; but regret for the past is useless ; let me trea- 
 sure the present ; and I trust my beloved brother, 
 
 on his eighteenth birth-day/^ may be very much 
 better than his sister in every respect ; but, most of 
 all, that he may have made more progress in the 
 Christian career than she has. My darling brother. 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 13 
 
 seek first the kingdom of heaven ; believing that then 
 all other things shall be added. Adieu for 
 to-night. 
 
 Castle Meadow J Norwich^ April 12th j 1842. 
 
 Do^ dear Henry, endeavour to get on in all thou 
 canst; golden moments are those now in thy pos- 
 session — the use of vrhich will be of either lasting 
 benefit or loss : Thou canst at a future time play, 
 but not at a future time canst thou so readily gain 
 information. Let then, every moment, be turned to 
 the best account ; and with all thy endeavours do 
 not forget the one thing needful. — "Lay up for 
 thyself treasure in Heaven, where neither moth nor 
 rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break 
 through, nor steal ; for where thy treasure is, there is 
 the heart also.^^ Remember that, my beloved Henry, 
 — " where the treasure is, there is the heart also.'^ 
 
14 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Third Month ISth, 1844. 
 
 I HAD a nice walk this mornings and called to see 
 a poor girl wlio has been ill for some time, and seems 
 in a very sweet state of mind. Ah ! my dear Henry, 
 how unwise are those who now have the opportunity, 
 to put aside seeking the one great end of our exist- 
 ence ! Let the young, let the thoughtless know, the 
 pains of the body will be quite sufficient to bear, 
 without having then to make their peace with God. 
 And how do we know the bed of languishing will be 
 our portion ? how do we know that we shall not be 
 cut down in a moment, without time to reflect — are 
 we prepared ? And how awful will it be for him who 
 is not ready ! Oh ! my beloved brother, how ardently 
 do I desire that thou mayst seek the pearl of great 
 price, which will aff'ord that true happiness which 
 this world cannot give, and which it is not able to 
 take away. We shall then, having obtained for- 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 15 
 
 giveness for our sins, through the blood of Jesus, be 
 ready and watching his call, which will only take us 
 from here, where we have endeavoured to glorify 
 Him_, to the world above, where we may and shall 
 glorify Him perfectly ; and this day may not be far 
 from any of us : — the old must go — the young may. 
 Man is compared to a flower, which to-day is, to- 
 morrow is cut down. 
 
 [Without Date.'] 
 
 Oh, my dear Henry, what are all the riches and 
 power of this world, when compared with the in- 
 heritance prepared by our dear Lord for his fol- 
 lowers ! And those that seek Him early, he will not 
 forsake in their oldage, but will uphold them with a 
 strong arm ; and though the Christian's path is not 
 an unruffled one, yet his end is a glorious one, and 
 the trials he encounters here are not to be compared 
 with the glories which he will possess : and, my dear 
 
16 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 brother, may we each run so as to obtain the incor- 
 ruptible crown, and hear the blessed words, " Well 
 done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the 
 joy of thy Lord \" But it is only through the blood 
 of Jesus this can be. 
 
 Saffron Walden, Sixth Month Uth, 1845. 
 
 (Before breakfast seven o'clock.) 
 
 My darling Henry, 
 As to-morrow is the anniversary of the happy day 
 which gave thee to us, I do not like to let it pass 
 without an earnest of my affection. I hope thou 
 will not think the enclosed too trifling for thy accept- 
 ance, but receive it as a little token of very much 
 love, and many fervent desires for thy happiness here 
 and glory hereafter. Yes, my dear brother, if it be 
 through great tribulation, mayst thou wash thy 
 robes, and make them white in the blood of the 
 Lamb mayst thou be a lamb of the great Shep- 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 17 
 
 herd's fold ; early may thy footsteps be turned 
 heavenward, in the narrow way which leads to life 
 eternal ; and then, when the pale messenger shall 
 come, death shall lose its sting — the grave its victory. 
 I hope, my dear Henry may very much enjoy his 
 intended trip with dear papa, and return with fresh 
 health and spirits to resume his tasks. Farewell my 
 dear boy. My best wishes awaiting thee, I must 
 remain, as ever. 
 
 Thy affectionately attached Sister, 
 
 Martha Lucy Aggs. 
 
 [Without Bate. 
 
 My very dear Henry, 
 
 I thank thee for thy letter received this morning. 
 I am always glad to hear from thee. Another time 
 I hope, my dear, thou wilt be at the Quarterly 
 Meeting — thou canst if thou wilt : and I hope thou 
 wilt feel a drawing. I quite agree with thee in what 
 
18 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 thou said about large gatherings ; but remember this 
 is the Quarterly Meeting to which you belong, and 
 it is incumbent on its members to keep it up. If 
 everyone said as thou dost, where would be the 
 meetings, and where our Society ? I believe, dear 
 Henry, the enemy ever knowing our weakest points, 
 is often very vigilant in trying to persuade us we can 
 do equally well without assembling together. Ah ! 
 my love, mayst thou be enabled to say, in every 
 temptation : " Get thee behind me, Satan.'^ 
 
 Can we doubt that the foregoing records, 
 with many others of similar import, penned by 
 this attached sister, assisted, under the Divine 
 blessing, in strengthening and maturing in the 
 mind of her brother those precious influences of 
 Heavenly love, with w^hich he was visited. She 
 knew the difficulties that attend the youthful 
 traveller in his Christian course, and the snares 
 
MARTHA LUCY FEASE. 
 
 19 
 
 laid for his inexperienced feet ; and, sympa- 
 thizing with him, endeavoured prayerfully to 
 direct him where she had herself found help, 
 even to Jesus, the unslumbering Shepherd. 
 
 A few extracts from other of her memoranda 
 and letters, will further illustrate her spiritual 
 exercises, and the character of her Christian 
 experience. 
 
 Twelfth Month Zlst, 1841. — 1 have endeavoured 
 during this month to rise early and employ my time 
 usefully. In reflecting on the events of this year, 
 1 feel my own shortcomings. How little, spiritual 
 growth has kept pace with the advantages I enjoy ; 
 yet, through the assistance of my Heavenly Father, 
 I have often endeavoured after watchfulness, and 
 that I may tridy be prepared, whenever the summons 
 may come, to hear with joy the call of my Lord. 
 And now, on entering a fresh year, O assist thy 
 
 c 2 
 
20 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 handmaiden more humbly and dihgently to follow 
 in every good work, to the promotion of thy glory. 
 
 Fourth Month 1st, 1843. — A letter mentions that 
 
 has spoken in meeting for the first time. She 
 
 is only twenty ; very young for such a service : but 
 I believe the Lord will be with her, and support her : 
 and while I have dwelt much on her being called so 
 early, I have thought that the still small voice 
 whispered to me, ^' Go thou and do likewise.^' O, 
 my Heavenly Father ! if it be thy blessed will, may 
 I humbly obey. 
 
 Fifth Month I6th (her birthday) .—What im- 
 provement has this year been made ? O ! how far 
 short do I fall. I cannot think the day's work has 
 kept pace with the day ; but yet I trust that, through 
 Divine grace, the time has not been spent idly. 
 Several little givings up have been accomplished. O, 
 my heavenly Father ! work in me, and mould me 
 for thy service — for thy glory. 
 
 Sia^th Month 2nd. — The Yearly Meeting ended. 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 21 
 
 A nice time. If I am never again permitted to 
 attend one^ this leaves a sweet savour. I trust I am 
 resigned to thy will, O my Heavenly Father ; for I 
 feel assured of thy love, and that thou wilt never 
 leave nor forsake me, though so unworthy of thy 
 love_j thy long-suffering, and thy mercy. 
 
 Te7ith Month 9th. — My Saviour has been very 
 near; He soothes me when I am bowed down with 
 weakness. 
 
 "Thou that art love, O pity and forgive, 
 And let thy breath, 
 Touch and make pure the flame 
 That knows not death. 
 
 Bearing it up to Heaven, Love's own abode." 
 
 Yes, to Thy care let me commit what is most 
 precious, and say " Thy will be done.^^ 
 
 Sia^th Month 6th. — To-day called on , and 
 
 felt a desire to hand a little encouragement to dear 
 E., but felt so weak, and fearful it should be in my 
 own strength that I did not. O, my Father, bear 
 
22 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 with thy unprofitable servant, and graciously be yet 
 near to assist me. 
 
 Norwich, Twelfth Month 6th, 1843. 
 Cousin H. C. B. gave me a very kind and sweet 
 address, hoping in my youth I might give myself up 
 to the Lord — to what was required : the longer it was 
 delayed, the harder the struggle was, and that the 
 way of the Lord was the way of peace. I hope I 
 may profit by what she said, and that we may all 
 meet in heaven, however widely we are scattered 
 here. 
 
 Yarmouth, Twelfth Month lOth, 1843. 
 
 . . . . What a small company is the meeting 
 here ! To me it seems very much fallen off, yet it is 
 consoling to remember that where two or three 
 are gathered together in the name of the Lord, He 
 has declared, there is He in the midst of them : and 
 though, where there is nothing outward to draw our 
 thoughts, they are apt to stray, and our devotions 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 23 
 
 become lifeless ; yet He will quicken with his Holy- 
 Spirit those who truly desire this precious gift^ and 
 will answer the silent^ heartfelt prayer of his own 
 sheep, wherever scattered ; yet there is something 
 forlorn and distressing to see oiu' little band dissolv- 
 ing, and losing the eai'ly bnght and deep religion it 
 professed. 
 
 Towards the latter end of the year 1846 she 
 met with a severe trial, in the illness and death 
 of her beloved brother Henry, over whom she 
 had watched with so much Christian earnestness, 
 and to whom, during the short period of his 
 ilhiess, she became the tender and aflectionate 
 nurse. It was in this time of deep anxiety that 
 she addressed the follo\\ing letter to an endeared 
 and sympathising relative : — 
 
 Twelfth Month lOth, 1846. 
 We seem tossed to and fro by hopes and fears, yet 
 I humbly beheve, in the depths of distress, the great 
 
24 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 " I Am was graciously with us, nor will inflict more 
 than He gives strength to bear. To-day we hope, 
 though it may be with trembling, that our beloved 
 
 Henry is better He looks ill, but so calm ; 
 
 and every attention is acknowledged by a sweet 
 smile, if not by words. His mind has, I believe, 
 truly turned to heavenly things ; and some days since 
 he told us all fear of death was taken away ; yet, if 
 it pleased his gracious Master, he should like to be 
 raised up to his glory. 
 
 The pleasing hope herein expressed was not 
 realized ; the disease, which was typhus fever, 
 progressed ; and on the 1 3th of Twelfth Month, 
 awaiting his change, with humble joy and expec- 
 tation, at intervals uttering the words, " Blessed 
 Jesus 1 — come — but wait thy time,'^ his redeemed 
 spirit gently passed away, we humbly trust, to 
 join the ransomed of all generations, in ascribing 
 to the Lord God and the Lamb, glory, honour, 
 thanksgiving and praise. 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 25 
 
 His decease took place at Saffron Walden, 
 where the family were then residing ; subse- 
 quently, in the same month, they removed to 
 Tottenham, in the neighbourhood of London. 
 
 Though deeply feehng the loss she had sus- 
 tained, she endeaToured to bow in humble resig- 
 nation to the will of Him, who " does not afflict 
 willingly, nor grieve the children of men and 
 in writing to her beloved mother says : — 
 
 "The Lord loveth whom he chasteneth/^ and 
 though no chastening for the present seemeth joyous, 
 yet if it worketh the reformation intended, and brings 
 us closer to the Lord, surely we ought to bless the 
 
 severe ! The note of is a sweet one, and we 
 
 ought to rejoice that, washed in the blood of the 
 Lamb, he whom we have so tenderly loved is 
 realising even more affection above, than thou, 
 our precious mother, could possibly bestow on thy 
 child. 
 
26 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Twelfth Month, 1846. 
 
 I HAVE thought much of thee and of our darling 
 Henry; and as I was alone in the dressing-room 
 last evening, I felt as if his sweet spirit yet hovered 
 around me. Dear boy ! each scene during that 
 touching illness has passed again and again before 
 my mind^s eye. 
 
 Third Month 2^rd, 1847.—'' The spirit truly is 
 willing, but the flesh is weak." Father, I feel my 
 need of thy hourly assistance. Leave me not, neither 
 forsake me, thou God of my salvation ; for in Thee do 
 I trust. I desire to cast all my cares upon Thee, and 
 for Thee to guide me in the path, to Thy own glory ; 
 and, O ever let me remember, I have nothing to 
 boast of, but to Thee be all the honour and all the 
 praise. Lead me into a sphere of usefulness while 
 here, in accordance with Thy will, whether to do or 
 to suffer, as it may best please Thee. And O, thou 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 27 
 
 God of \o\e, in thy mercy forgive, and yet again 
 forgive, the transgressions of Thy handmaiden. Set 
 a watch upon my mouth, that I sin not with my lips. 
 Give me wisdom and understanding, and enable me 
 to keep thy law^ and finally, through the merits of a 
 crucified and risen Saviour, admit me into the realms 
 of bliss, for ever to dwell with Him, 
 " "Whom though absent I love ; 
 Whom not having seen I adore." 
 
 And, O Father, hear the cries of thy people on behalf 
 of the poor inhabitants who have fallen under Thy 
 hand in Ireland. Stretch forth thy holy arm, and 
 say It is enough and bless the efi*orts used to save 
 their poor perishing bodies, and their immortal souls. 
 Shed abroad thy grace amongst them, and let the 
 song of praise be raised to thee, by the suffering 
 Hibernian. 
 
 Eleventh Month 7th. — Thanks be unto Thee for 
 all thy mercy ! In Thee do I trust. Fulfil the 
 petitions of my heart, for the sake of Thy beloved 
 
28 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 Son^ for thou God seest me; and Thou knowest 
 there are seasons_, when I could lay down everything 
 at thy feet, and adopt the language, " Though He 
 slay me_, yet will I trust in him." O there is nothing 
 I desire here in comparison of Thee ; and to do Thy 
 willj to run in the way of Thy commandments is 
 my chiefest pleasure ; and yet the deep baptisms 
 permitted Thy servants ! sometimes I am ready to 
 think the valley is particularly my place. O keep 
 me there, dearest Father, if there I most experience 
 the riches of Thy grace. 
 
 Third Month, 1848. — How little things distract 
 my attention. How needful to be on the watch. 
 Oh that I might never be a stumbling block to 
 others ; but by a lowly and consistent walk, glorify 
 God, and be a useful member of his militant church. 
 
 Fifth Month 7th. — This month has set in with 
 beautiful weather. The country looks beautiful : 
 how lovely the prospect ! But in my solitude, con- 
 flicting thoughts have almost distracted my mind, 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 29 
 
 and none have witnessed my tears. How fervently 
 I desire to do that which is right in the Divine sight. 
 He only, who knows every thought, can tell. I 
 sometimes believe the deep baptisms have tended to 
 my advancement heaven war d^ and oh ! then I have 
 not had one trial too much. 
 
 Fifth Month 17th. — How transitory are the things 
 of time, and how all-important to have our trust 
 fixed on Him who can bless and blast every- 
 thing ! If we know Him as our Leader, Priest, and 
 King, cast down we may be, but not forsaken ; yet, 
 at times, faith is so weak, and our souls' adversary 
 so beguiling, even appearing as an Angel of light ; 
 but the Lord is our helper, and to the care of this 
 Shepherd and Bishop of souls would I commend 
 
 thee, my dear , with all whom thou and I hold 
 
 precious. 
 
 Ninth Month 23rd. — This has been a stormy day, 
 my poor mind beaten and tossed. Arise for my 
 help, O Lord ! let me never lose my trust in thee, 
 
30 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 but do Thou steer the tempest-tossed bark to the 
 haven of peace^ there for ever to anchor safely on 
 the Heavenly shore. 
 
 Constrained by the love of Christ, and making 
 the discipUne of her own heart her daily care, 
 as by these records of her inner life appears 
 evident, did this beloved one, whilst in a re- 
 markable degree attracting the admiration and 
 esteem of all who knew her, and diffusing a 
 sunshine of happiness around her, grow from 
 strength to strength in the Christian course; 
 cultivating that charity which beareth, believeth, 
 hopeth, endureth, and is kind. She possessed 
 at the same time a good insight into general 
 character, and never connived at what she 
 deemed wrong in others, aptly applying to their 
 actions, when circumstances required it, those 
 high principles of honour, integrity, and justice. 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 31 
 
 by which she was herself governed ; she was 
 bold in reproving the untruthful and the unjust, 
 especially when espousing the cause of the de- 
 famed and the oppressed. When about nine- 
 teen she undertook a Bible district. The spread 
 of the Holy Scriptures was an object which her 
 love for the Redeemer s cause made very dear to 
 her. Besides this, she was pleased to unite in 
 various plans of usefulness among the poor, 
 paying domiciliary visits among them in her 
 own neighbourhood. Unfailing kindness, ur- 
 banity, sound judgment, with tender sympathy 
 and generosity towards real distress, were 
 marked features in her character, and rendered 
 her a valued coadjutor and a true friend to the 
 outcast and afflicted. It is by referring to her 
 letters and memoranda that we more parti- 
 cularly^ trace the religious tenor of her mind. 
 
32 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 Eleventh Month 9th, 1847. 
 
 My beloved Cousin, 
 
 It was quite a pleasure to receive thy letter a few 
 days ago, and I wish to take an early opportunity of 
 thanking thee for it, — indeed I have intended to 
 write for some time, but I have felt at times that 
 sufficient for the day were (I may not say the evil) 
 the cares thereof ; yet I feel bound to acknowledge 
 that infinite mercy and goodness have followed me 
 hitherto, and at seasons I have been ready to add 
 the language of Job, — "Though He slay me, yet will 
 I trust in Him." Oh all is well that He ordereth, 
 and Our times are in his hand. The return of this 
 season brings afresh the conflict of last year, when 
 our darling Henry was on a bed of languishing, and 
 his redeemed spirit took its flight to the realms of 
 bliss. Oh joyful thought ! often when trial sur- 
 rounds me here, does the song of praise ascend that 
 he is free. 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 33 
 
 Bruce Grove, Third Month St/i, 1848, 
 Truly consolatory is the sympathy of those we 
 love. — Ah ! how apt we are to cling to and rest in 
 things here, rather than fix our sole dependence 
 
 on One above ' Yet, are there not seasons, dear , 
 
 when we feel the love of our Heavenly Father 
 drawing us to himself, and we seem to know Him, 
 our Comforter, our Counsellor, our sure Refuge, 
 through the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour. 
 
 Fourth Month 21st, 1848. — Oh, my beloved cousin, 
 that thou and I may not flinch from hard sayings, 
 even from baptismal suffering : most assuredly flesh 
 and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; but 
 what things we were ready to count gain, are indeed 
 loss to us ; and if, through trials and tribulations, our 
 sins go beforehand to judgment, and we are preserved 
 in watchfulness and prayer, Divine strength and love 
 will be perfected. 
 
 Fifth Month 2nd, 1849. — I often, my dear cousin. 
 
34 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 bear thee in mind_, and feel nearly and tenderly 
 united to thee. Mayst thou be upheld through all 
 thy steppings. Firm seems my belief, that He who 
 has thus far been thy Leader and Helper, will be thy 
 Rock and Support to the end. O He is such a gra- 
 cious Master, such a tender Father, chiding so gently, 
 rewarding so richly ! Methinks it is little to give up 
 all for such wages ; though truly the struggle is often 
 severe and the flesh so weak. 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Fifth Month 29th. 
 Thy sweet and consoling letter reached me when 
 I felt very low and much tossed, and I seemed to be 
 cheered, and even to rejoice. . . . Oh the blessed- 
 ness of being ready for the Master's call, and to feel 
 no bonds to the perishing things of time ! Happy state ! 
 to sit at the Master's feet, like Mary, waiting his 
 command. And truly it is a comfort to know of your 
 feeling so near to the Rock of Ages in this time of 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 35 
 
 trial. May He continue to hide you as in the 
 hollow of his hand, to guide you by his counsel, and 
 succour you in every way. 
 
 Ninth Month \st. 
 
 My dearest Mamma, 
 
 has made me somewhat anxious, yet I 
 
 desire to leave all to an allwise and unerring Provi- 
 dence ; that cheerful contentment may be my portion 
 in whatever lot it may please Him to place me. 
 " Fear not, little flock, it is your Father's good 
 pleasure to give you the kingdom !" And when with 
 a stedfast eye we behold the joys in store for the 
 redeemed of the Lord, what are all the trials and 
 crosses of this transitory scene — but for a moment. 
 
 To the Same. 
 
 Tenth Month 27th, 1848. 
 
 I have been this morning to meeting. 
 
 spoke ; alluding to the peculiar privilege of sitting 
 
36 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 together ; casting aside the cares and trials of this 
 world, in our favoured land, where we fear not 
 sword nor molestation, to worship our Heavenly 
 Father ; desiring we might be bowed in spirit 
 — humbled before God — praising Him for his 
 mercy and his care. Oh how rich are these to 
 his poor dependent children ! they are new every 
 morning. Each of those dear to me arose in 
 my mind, and I think I felt enabled to cast all my 
 care on Him, who, I believe, careth for the very 
 least. E. G. D. gave me the following stanzas as 
 expressive of her wishes for me : — 
 
 " Israel's Shepherd, gently lead her, 
 Where sweet Shiloh's waters flow ; 
 In the lowly valley feed her, 
 Where the flocks in safety go. 
 
 Teach her to Thy voice to hearken. 
 
 Humbly following Thy behest ; 
 Then when night the earth shall darken, 
 
 Take her to Thy fold of rest." 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 37 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Eleventh Month 2nd, 1848. 
 
 Thus we see one after another summoned before 
 the throne of the Judge of all the earth, to give 
 account of the deeds done in the body. And oh ! 
 how blessed for those, who, through a Saviour's 
 blood, are found in the wedding garment — by his 
 merits permitted for ever to serve Him acceptably, 
 the great Bridegroom of souls. My thoughts have 
 
 been very frequently with my dear , desiring 
 
 she may be helped forward in the work in prospect ; 
 and oh ! it is indeed a blessed one to serve such a 
 Master. Happy are they whom He anoints, and 
 whom He enables to serve Him with a single eye. 
 
 And, in connection with dearest , the words seem 
 
 sweetly to arise, "Fear not thou worm Jacob 
 I will help thee, saith the Lord, and thy Redeemer, 
 the Holy One of Israel." Please give my affectionate 
 love to her. I hardly feel willing to intrude on her 
 
38 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 time and thoughts by writing to her ; but she is very 
 often in my remembrance. Farewell, dearest ! Oh, 
 may my beloved parents long be spared to extend 
 their watchful care over us, and may we more and 
 more prize them. 
 
 Bruce Grove j Eleventh Month I5th, 1848. 
 My beloved Cousin, 
 It seems with me this evening to send a few lines 
 to thee, in that love and sympathy which according 
 to my small measure are granted me. Very often 
 hast thou been in my affectionate remembrance since 
 our little peep at each other in London ; and I have 
 been interested in hearing of thee since, and truly 
 desire thou mayst be kept very near thy Lord and 
 Master, and assisted to do all He may require at thy 
 hand ; and many are they who can testify He is not 
 a hard master. Is not that peace which He giveth, 
 worth more than all the world can bestow ? Yes, 
 and thou knowest it too, dear cousin, and art, I 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 39 
 
 beKeve, often made a large partaker of this sweet 
 peace ; and often do I long that I were as far 
 advanced Zionward as thou art^ dear ; but it is all 
 of unmerited mercy that He is at any time willing 
 to regard so unworthy a suppliant, and that I am not 
 cast off for ever. Oh ! the love of Him who carries 
 the lambs in his arms, and gently leads his flock ; 
 yes, in the green pastures, and beside the still 
 waters. 
 
 Bruce Grove, Twelfth Month 2Sth, 1848. — I rejoice 
 to be here again ; and on my return the words arose 
 in my mind — " What shall I render unto the Lord for 
 all his benefits towards me?^^ I feel such an unpro- 
 fitable servant, so often departing from the path in 
 which He would lead me ; and yet He is pleased 
 again and again to visit me with his love, and to 
 whisper peace to my weary soul : " It is I, be not 
 afraid." O, He will carry us through all, as we keep 
 close to Him; and in the end, if we be permitted to 
 
40 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 see the glory of his salvation, and the words, " Well 
 done/' are addressed to us, all the trials and crosses 
 of this fleeting scene will sink as nothing before our 
 view. 
 
 Bruce Grove, Twelfth Month Z\st. — Often do I 
 feel that thankfulness ought to ascend to the unslum- 
 bering Shepherd of Israel, for thus preserving us 
 during a travel of many miles, and again restoring us 
 in safety to those so dear. May He, my beloved 
 cousin, be very near to you, and to your dear invalid, 
 making all his bed in his sickness ; lighting up the 
 dark valley, and receiving him into the unfading 
 inheritance prepared for his own little flock. I know 
 it is hard to give up those we love, those we have 
 tenderly watched over ; but we must cast all our 
 care on Him who careth for us ; and contemplate our 
 reunion with those loved ones, safe from the vicissi- 
 tudes of this changing scene, in a world where adieus 
 and farewells are a sound unknown. 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 41 
 
 In perusing the foregoing extracts, a deep 
 conviction is felt of the Christian earnestness of 
 the writer. The heart seems laid open before 
 us, and we see its conflicts and its struggles. At 
 the same time there is afforded a holy evidence, 
 that she could commit all into the hands of a 
 faithful Creator and Redeemer, who has said, 
 " As thy day so shall thy strength be that she 
 knew in whom she had believed ; and that " He 
 was able to keep that which she had committed 
 to Him until that day." 
 
 In the spring of 1850 she was united in mar- 
 riage with Thomas Pease, of Chapel AUerton, 
 near Leeds. During their tour through the 
 South of England and Brittany, before reaching 
 her new home, she thus alludes to her feelings, 
 while passing through SaHsbury, in the recollec- 
 tion that on a former visit there, her brother 
 Henry formed one of the party : — 
 
42 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 Poole, Third Month %Uh, 1850. 
 My dearest Mamma, 
 We proceeded on Seventh-day to Salisbury. We 
 stopped at the Cathedral on the way to the train, and 
 it recalled many associations, some of which could 
 not fail to cast a shade over the bright and joyous 
 scene ; and yet in all, I believe the calm assurance 
 prevailed, that He hath done all things well.^^ But 
 I do not like, dearest Mamma, to call thy attention 
 to those who no longer gladden with their smile, 
 because I believe thou dwells almost unprofitably on 
 these things ; and oh ! remember he whom thou 
 mourns as lost is only gone before, perhaps to watch 
 over thee from above, as a ministering spirit, and to 
 welcome thee in the right time, to a land of bliss. 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Angers, Fourth Month 9th. 
 
 . . . . I do not forget those whom I have left, 
 even though they may not now claim my first 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 43 
 
 thoughts and my first care, as formerly. You are 
 each often vividly brought to memory, and I long for 
 a peep, unseen, across the Channel into the parlour 
 of my former dear home, and a wish arises to ad- 
 minister to your comfort. I recur with gratitude 
 to all your love for me ; but He who has told 
 us to cast all our care upon Him, will, I con- 
 solingly believe, supply all your need, and not 
 only enable us with grateful hearts to enjoy the rich 
 blessings He showers around our paths, but give the 
 peaceful assurance that there is prepared for us one 
 of those many mansions, He has promised to the 
 lowly followers of a crucified Saviour. 
 
 Warwick, Fifth Month ISth, 1850. 
 My DEAREST Mamma, 
 Daily do my thoughts turn towards you, with 
 earnest desires for the preservation of each, and that 
 according to the different requirings your every 
 want may be supplied ; for we do know that our 
 
44 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 Heavenly Father is more ready to give than we are 
 to receive, and will richly bless all who in sincerity 
 devote themselves to Him. 
 
 2Srd. — Please tell my friends I often think of 
 them during this instructive season (Yearly Meeting), 
 and recur with fresh delight to some of the seasons 
 I have passed in the Meeting-house, when it was my 
 privilege to be able to assemble with them. 
 
 Chapel Allerton Hall, 
 
 Eighth Month 7th, 1850. 
 
 My beloved Brother, 
 
 I often think of thee with much love^ and call to 
 mind thy affectionate attentions to me ; and I do 
 desire the richest blessing may rest upon thee ; that, 
 as thou art concerned to devote the first of all thou 
 hast to the service of thy Lord, so He may crown 
 thee with his blessing on every hand. 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 45 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Third Month Srd, 1851. 
 
 seems very happy and peaceful, having that 
 
 joy none can take away ; and feeling that, as she 
 rightly uses the talents entrusted to her care, they 
 are increased to the glory of the Great Giver, and to 
 her own reward. Oh ! my dear brother, even amidst 
 the much to distract thy attention, and the busy hum 
 of that vast metropolis, may the still small voice reach 
 thy ear — the spiritual ear ; and may its influence be 
 felt, drawing from the unlawful engrossments of 
 worldly care, and centring thy mind on the heavenly 
 rest prepared for those who seek early the Kingdom 
 of God : so shall everything here be blessed, and a 
 joyful inheritance prepared for the weary pilgrim. 
 Thou knowest the Christianas path must be a chas- 
 tened one — " his home is not here but, founded 
 on the Rock of Ages, all is well. And he knows as 
 the Master, so must the servant endure trial. 
 
46 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 In the year 1851 her eldest httle girl was 
 born. Alluding to this interesting event, in 
 writing to her brother^ she says : — 
 
 I desire to feel truly thankful for the comparative 
 quick restoration I am experiencing. I shall rejoice 
 to show thee my sweet little baby, which I desire not 
 to look upon as too certain a treasure : if she be 
 spared to us, may I train her for the abode of bliss, 
 beyond this transitory scene. I do believe I may say, 
 each month assures me increasingly of the vanity of 
 all, short of a preparation through redeeming love, 
 for the heavenly home. 
 
 Hail, happy eve, that brought my babe to light ! 
 
 A little pilgrim on life's chequered way ; 
 
 Another source of sweet and fond delight, 
 
 Another heir of immortality. 
 
 Sixth Month Ibth, 1851. 
 
 Mx DEAREST MaMMA, 
 
 Uncle G.'s revival seems wonderful. I almost 
 trust he may be spared a little longer ; but how 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 47 
 
 blessed to be prepared for life or death, and to know 
 either will work for our good. Ah ! there is indeed 
 an anchor for the soul both sure and stedfast, which 
 no winds nor storms can move ; and happy they who 
 feel this support to be theirs. 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Twelfth Month 12th, 1851. 
 I do not forget, to-morrow is the anniversary of 
 our dearest Henry's death ; nor have my thoughts 
 been wholly diverted from the season during his 
 illness. But I can more and more rejoice in his 
 happiness, as I longer tread the path of life, and feel 
 the temptations and probations of this chequered 
 scene. I hope thou wilt also often be enabled to 
 rejoice over this fresh cord of union to the land of 
 bliss, and not grieve as if he were lost. 
 
 In the summer of 1852 she removed with 
 her husband and family to Henbury Hill, near 
 
48 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 Bristol. Here, in this beautiful locality, whilst 
 her cup of happiness seemed full to overflowing, 
 she did not forget the hand that had bestowed 
 so many blessings upon her ; but acknowledged 
 the mercies of her Heavenly Father with 
 heartfelt thankfulness. And here it may be ob- 
 served, that in every relation of daughter, 
 sister, wife and mother, the uniform tenor of 
 her life testified, that she had been with Jesus ; 
 that she had sat at his feet, and had learned of 
 Him, who is meek and lowly in heart ; thus she 
 was enabled, through the help of the Holy 
 Spirit, measureably to keep the things of time 
 in their proper places ; to consider earth with all 
 its attractions, only as a place of travel ; looking 
 constantly to a city of habitation, a dwelling- 
 place with her God. 
 
MARTHA. LUCY PEASE. 
 
 49 
 
 Henhury Hill, Sixth Month Sth, 1852. 
 My dearest Mamma, 
 
 . . . . I have been looking. Mamma dear^ at 
 thy likeness when thou wast a girl. I unpacked it 
 this morning with some other treasures. I do value 
 it very much ; and it really does remind me of what 
 thou art now, though so many years have rolled by, 
 — years which have brought many a care and many a 
 chastisement ; but I trust also a large proportion of 
 blessing and mercy; and it is good to number our 
 benefits, and to think how unworthy we are of the 
 least. Oh, if we were dealt with as we deserve, I 
 often think how diflPerent my lot would be : we are 
 so apt to forget from whom every good and perfect 
 gift flows, and rather to repine at what we have not, 
 than to let the song of praise arise for all we receive ; 
 and I do think that praise and thanksgiving are 
 as acceptable to the Almighty as the language of 
 prayer. It will be continual praise in heaven ; 
 
50 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 and we are at times favoured to feel much of the 
 sweet rest and peace we anticipate in this proba- 
 tionary scene, perfected there. 
 
 In 1852, another claim was made on her 
 tender care by the birth of a second daughter, 
 to which circumstance she alludes in the fol- 
 lowing letter : — 
 
 Eighth Month 26th, 1852. 
 
 My dearest Mamma, 
 
 . . . . I am getting on very nicely. I 
 thought it would be a satisfaction to thee to see my 
 handwriting. I believe I do feel very thankful to 
 the Author of every good gift for the nice little baby 
 He has committed to my care; and for all his 
 blessings bestowed on us, in permitting my recovery 
 to progress satisfactorily. I have not had a single 
 drawback. 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 51 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Twelfth Month \&h, 1852. 
 [Having been to the Quarterly Meeting at Ciren- 
 cester, she writes in postscript : — ] I was interested 
 on going into E. B.'s oa the evening of the 13th, 
 [the anniversary of her brother's death] in observing 
 a memoir of our dear Henry lying on the drawing- 
 room table. At first it was rather afiPecting. This 
 feeling soon gave way to rejoicing in the glory re- 
 vealed to him ; and the thought arose that no more 
 sorrow ought to prevail for the loss of one gathered 
 into the heavenly garner. 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Twelfth Month ^\st, 1852. 
 
 . . . . On the last day of the year I send 
 thee a few lines, which will reach thee in due course 
 on the first of 1853, and may it, my dear Mamma, 
 prove one of peace and happiness to thee. We 
 know it would not be good for us to be without 
 
 E 2 
 
52 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 crosses — should we not be apt to take up our rest 
 here, rather than seek an inheritance above ? 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Third Month mh, 1853. 
 . . . . We have now thirteen in the kitchen, 
 which requires no httle providing for, to have 
 matters go on smoothly : yet, dear Mamma, I do 
 believe it is well for me to feel a little of the ^' ups 
 and downs of life,'^ for my lot is cast in a pleasant 
 place ; and I hail what makes me look more entirely 
 for dependence on my Saviour, even in little things, 
 for these are perhaps the most trying to bear. Dost 
 thou remember the beautiful lines : — 
 
 " Thee to praise and Thee to know. 
 Constitutes our bUss below ; 
 Thee to see and Thee to love, 
 Constitutes our bliss above. 
 Peace and happiness are Thine ; 
 Mine they are if Thou art mine.'' 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 53 
 
 To THE Same. 
 
 Fifth Month \m, 1853. 
 
 We had a nice meetiBg this morning. — E. Allen 
 and her husband on theii' wav to London. She rose 
 with the words. The fathers where Eire they ' and 
 the prophets where ai*e they ?-' and dwelt sweetly on 
 the consolatory belief, that instead of the fathers 
 there would be the children ; for Behold the Lord's 
 hand is not shortened that it cannot save, neither his 
 ear heavy that it cannot hear.'"' She was encou- 
 raging in her remarks, and afterwards J. A. took up 
 the subject with much feeling. 
 
 Henbwry HiU, Ninth MoiUh Sth, 1S53. 
 
 My dearest Mamma, 
 
 Thank thee for the few lines fi'om thy own deai' 
 hand. I feel very languid to-day ; except which. I 
 am well, and have eveiything that can conduce to 
 my comfort ; and with all have never felt more re- 
 
54 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 liance on the goodness of my Heavenly Father, that 
 He will do all ^' well/"* and support me in the time of 
 need. He graciously enables me to trust in Him, 
 and feel much peace and quiet ; so that I have only 
 the song of praise to raise for all his loving -kind- 
 ness, and of prayer, for his continued favours and 
 mercies. My little ones are quite well ; baby yes- 
 terday walked a few steps to me, for the first time. 
 Little Gertie has often asked after thee ; she can 
 repeat her little hymn that I was teaching her when 
 thou wast with me. 
 
 With very dear love to each of you, 
 
 I am, thy fondly attached daughter, 
 
 Martha Lucy Pease. 
 
 On the 23rd of Tenth Month, about three 
 weeks after the birth of an infant son, it pleased 
 Him, " who doeth all things well," to overcast 
 the scene, and visit with intensest sorrow the 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 55 
 
 happy home, by taking, in the midst of added 
 joy and hope, the beloved wife and tender 
 mother. She was suddenly seized with severe 
 indisposition, and in about two weeks more had 
 entered into that rest and peace, in the bosom 
 of her Saviour, which she had so long by faith 
 anticipated. 
 
 Immediately after the attack, which was at- 
 tended with severe pain and laid her almost 
 prostrate, she was placed on a sofa, where for 
 forty -nine hours she remained in imminent 
 danger. Her quiet submission amidst much 
 bodily suffering was most striking. Her sweet- 
 ness of ^ temper even then did not fail her. It 
 was truly instructive to be with her. Years of 
 habitual self-control, in prayerful dependence 
 upon the great Exemplar, had made lowhness 
 and meekness, thankfulness and cheerful con- 
 
56 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 tentment under all circumstances, seem to those 
 around her to be almost her very nature. Amid 
 these trying hours. He who had been the 
 strength of her life, was her light and her sal- 
 vation ; her exceeding comfort in all her tribu- 
 lation. 
 
 She exhibited most entirely, an abiding in the 
 will of God. She remained uniformly placid 
 and trustful. " Calm on the bosom of her God" 
 she waited his time. " My times are in thy 
 hands,'' — " Thou wilt never leave me nor forsake 
 me,'' — All my springs are in Thee," was the 
 language of her heart, in substance oft expressed. 
 At her own request, the twenty-third psalm and 
 many favourite hymns were often read to her. 
 For hours, almost nights together, her time was 
 thus passed ; patience, peace, thankfulness, 
 prayer, faith, and hope, were the atmosphere of 
 
MAKTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 57 
 
 her death-bed scene. At length, after alterna- 
 tions of hope and fear, the case became quite 
 hopeless ; her strength sank, and the cold finger 
 of death was laid upon her brow. On one 
 occasion, and on one only, did she shed tears, 
 or utter a single expression of lingering wish to 
 stay. They were a mother's tears. The re- 
 membrance of her children was more than she 
 could bear. The tender tie of maternal love 
 could not be severed mthout a conflict. Per- 
 ceiving in its full force the closing scene drawing 
 nigh, a glow of intense emotion suffused her 
 lovely, her expressive features. Little was 
 said, — tears gently flowed. After a little, 
 regaining her self-possession, she said, " I feel 
 it so very hard to give up my children'' — 
 [Soon after,] " but my faith is very strong." 
 " That thou wilt recover 1 " her husband 
 
 F 
 
58 
 
 MEMOIR OF 
 
 asked. No," — she emphatically added, " in my 
 Saviour/' After a pause, she requested that 
 the account of our Saviour's sufferings in the 
 garden of Gethsemane might be read to her ; 
 to this she listened with deep attention, and 
 afterwards seemed to lay all her dearest earthly 
 treasures at the Divine footstool ; and, in the 
 spirit of holy acquiescence, to say Thy will be 
 done." This was on First-day morning. She 
 continued calm during the day ; her bodily 
 powers gradually becoming enfeebled, but with 
 the mind clear to the very last, she patiently 
 waited the dawning of eternal day in the para- 
 dise of God. " Can no more be done V she 
 said within a few hours of her decease ; and, on 
 receiving a reply in the negative, she seemed 
 with confiding trust to await the summons. 
 Perfect composure and a most impressive sweet- 
 
MARTHA LUCY PEASE. 
 
 59 
 
 ness of expression overspread her countenance. 
 Her husband knelt in prayer — the last united 
 prayer — it was a solemn, an agonising moment ; 
 the depth of sorrow, the burst of heavenly joy. 
 The last words were inaudible ; a gentle sigh 
 heaved the breast — hfe forsook its beauteous 
 tenement — the spirit returned to God who 
 gave it. 
 
 LONDOjr : KICHAKD BAKRETT, PRI^•IEB, MAEK LAlfB. 
 
4