|Mi#ti^^ 
 
 i 
 i 
 
 * 
 
 SOM"; ACCOUNT 
 
 » 
 
 * 
 
 s 
 
 JV: B T M O M U, 
 
 * 
 
 i 
 
 ATE O'. 
 
 I 
 
 8 
 1 
 
 EXETER 
 
 1 
 
 if 
 
 i 
 
 I 
 
 gorfi: 
 
 RI> i El) FOR W, ALEXANDER' 
 SOLD ALSO BY 
 
 \rvey anij dar: ji:, «r. phillip£> and w. darton, 
 
 IONDuS ; 
 
 fJBB, BRISTOL ; 
 *Nt> CHRISTOPHER BENTHAM, BVBL7 
 
 BX I 
 
 7795 I 
 
 D85S6I 
 
 1820 
 
 
§ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, 
 
 PL 
 
 Chap. J^A-llSS 
 
 She/f-HtsSk- 
 
 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 
 

 4. o4u*>€:/fy-i z 
 
• — 
 
 v * 
 
 %n 
 
SOME ACCOUNT 
 
 OF 
 
 / 
 
 v5J¥JV BYMONB; 
 
 LATE OP 
 
 EXETER, 
 
 2?or&: 
 
 PRINTED FOR W. ALEXANDER J 
 
 SOLD ALSO BY 
 
 JIARVEY AND DARTON, W. PHILLIPS, AND W. DARTON ? 
 
 LONDON; 
 
 if: M. & E» WEBB, BRISTOL; 
 
 AND CHRISTOPHER BENTHAM, DUBLIN* 
 
 1830, 
 
 Cv 
 
*&?£"• 
 •$»« 
 
 FEINTED BY 
 
 KASGEOYE, GAWTHORP, & HARGBGYE, 
 
 HEBALD'OFFICE. YOEK. 
 
ADVER TISEMENT. 
 
 It may be proper to inform the reader, 
 that the following Memoir is chiefly comjiosed 
 of Extracts from the Diary of the valued In~ 
 dividual whose experiences it records, or from 
 Letters addressed by her, to her relations and 
 intimate friends. 
 
 Hie deficiencies in the Narrative which 
 these sources of information present, have been 
 supplied by individuals who were well ac- 
 quainted with the incidents of her life. In 
 the Extracts, her own language, with very 
 slight corrections, has been carefully pre* 
 
 a 2 
 
4 ADVERTISEMENT. 
 
 served; and her observations, therefore, ap~ 
 pear in their native dress. 
 
 Several persons, to whom the Manuscript 
 lias been shown, having expressed a desire 
 for copies of it, the near relatives of A. 
 Dymond have been induced to print a small 
 impression; and they hope, that while this 
 little compilation may gratify those who knew 
 and valued her character, the wider circxda- 
 tion of it may not be wholly without use $e 
 others. 
 
SOME ACCOUNT 
 
 OF 
 
 ANN DYMOID, 
 
 SECTION I. 
 
 £Tcr Birth and Parentage — Natural Disposition— State 
 of her Mind in early Life — Death of a Brother — The 
 religious care of her Parents — Severe Illness — Decease 
 of her Father—- Work of Religion in her Soul— First 
 appearance as a Minister, 
 
 JL Was born in the parish called St. Thomas 
 the Apostle, near the city of Exeter, in the 
 county of Devon, on the ICth day of the 2d 
 month, 1768. My parents, George and Ann 
 Dyniond, professed the truth as it is in Jesus 
 Christ our Lord and Saviour; and had it, I be- 
 lieve, in a good degree in possession. They 
 were also engaged that their offspring should 
 be brought up in a manner consistent therewith. 
 
 *3 
 
6 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 They had four sons, three of whom were 
 living when I was born. Being their first 
 daughter, I suppose t was a little too much 
 indulged, until my seventh year ; when my mo- 
 ther had another daughter. 
 
 We were now five children. My brothers 
 were sent to boarding-school in their turns; and 
 when I arrived at nearly the eleventh year of my 
 age, I went also. 1 can very well recollect, 
 that I was not so dutiful to my parents as I 
 ought to have been, Being naturally of a rough 
 temper, and having a turbulent, unsubjected 
 will, I believe I was a child difficult to manage. 
 
 My beloved parents were often concerned to 
 advise and reprove me, and to give me good 
 counsel, which, although to appearance it had 
 little or no effect at that time, has undoubtedly 
 been blessed to me ; for which I now desire to 
 be humbly thankful to the Great Disposer of 
 all good. His witness, placed in the secret of 
 my heart, even in these my very young years, 
 was often striving with me, so that, at seasons, 
 I was made sincerely desirous of altering ray 
 course; but as often the enemy prevailed by dis- 
 suading me. I can remember many a hard 
 
ANN DYMOND. 7 
 
 struggle in my tender mind, even when I 
 scarcely knew what it meant. Thus did my 
 Heavenly Parent condescend to visit me by the 
 inshinings of his good Spirit, although I knew 
 Him not. O ! wonderful condescension in- 
 deed ! My soul now bows in reverent gratitude 
 for these His unmerited favors. 
 
 Before the time was fully expired, which my 
 parents intended me to stay at school, my 
 youngest brother fell into a decline ; and I 
 returned home a few weeks before his decease, 
 which took place about Midsummer, 1781. He 
 was an innocent youth ; and there is no doubt 
 that his end was happy. His death proved a 
 severe stroke to me, as he was my favorite -bro- 
 ther; and it put me, for a while, upon thinking 
 what was the state of my own soul. 
 
 That thought fulness did not last long ; for the 
 enemy again prevailed, and I fell into greater 
 degrees of folly and vanity than before. How- 
 ever, blessed be the name of Israel's God ! I 
 was still followed with strong convictions in the 
 secret of my own mind, and was given to see 
 the impropriety of my conduct. I also felt 
 sorrow for the pain and grief I had caused to 
 
 a 4 
 
i SDMI ACCQVKt Of 
 
 my worthy parents, whose minds were earnestly 
 engaged for their children's eternal welfare, 
 beyond every other consideration. They were 
 preserved from an eager pursuit after this 
 world's treasure, either to heap up riches for 
 themselves, or for their children, convinced that* 
 where this desire has prevailed, individuals 
 have dwindled as to the life of religion ; and 
 that the riches obtained, have given wings to 
 their children, by which they have flown from 
 the right way, and have left that simplicity which 
 would have spared them many a conflict. 
 
 My parents would often say : "If we did well 
 we should have enough, and if otherwise, more 
 than would do us good." I might add much in 
 commemoration of their pious care and over- 
 sight ; but I prefer brevity : suffice it therefore 
 to say, that by the impressive language of con- 
 duct, they clearly evinced they could have 
 no greater joy than to see their children walk- 
 ing in the truth. 
 
 No memorandum appear* to have been pre- 
 served by A. Dymord between the foregoing 
 and one dated 1798 ; but it may be proper to 
 
ANN DYMONT&. 9 
 
 that in 17{J5 she was reduced by ill- 
 ness to the brink of the grave. Iir however 
 pleased Infinite Wisdom not only to raise her 
 up, but also to sustain her, under the afflictive 
 intelligence which awaited her recovery, that of 
 the decease of her father ; whose worth, even at 
 this period, she highly appreciated, and whose- 
 loss she felt with great poignancy. 
 
 In the succeeding se^en years the inward 
 work of true religion continued to make secret 
 progress ; and was indicated by the indubitable 
 fruits of the spirit, which at length were brought 
 forth in beautiful succession. One of the ear- 
 liest evidences of her being on her passage from 
 death unto life, from an agreement with her 
 souPs enemy to an operative belief in that 
 Power, which alone can set free from the bond- 
 age of corruption, was an unfeigned love of the 
 faithful in our society ; whose company and 
 the influence of whose exercised spirits became 
 her delight. The love of such, was not less 
 forcibly attracted towards her, from a secret 
 sense of the great work which, like that of the 
 potter upon the wheel, was going on in her 
 soul ; and of the deep conflict to which she was 
 thereby subjected. A language similar to the 
 
 a- 5 
 
30 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 disconsolate apostrophe oj the apostle, was the 
 frequent attendant of her heart : " O ! wretched 
 roan that I am, who shall deliver me from the 
 body of this death !" But she was eventually 
 enabled with him, to adopt the encouraging ex- 
 clamation : " Thanks be unto God who giveth 
 us the victory, through our Lord Jesus Christ.' 7 
 
 Though there remains no doubt \Mth those 
 who were acquainted with her exercises, and 
 who were witnesses of their blessed results, 
 that this victory was finally obtained ; yet the 
 process of sauctification and redemption was 
 not speediSy perfected. There was a long and 
 severe conflict between the convictions of Di- 
 vine Grace, aud the strong propensities of the 
 natural will ; yet it was joyfully evident, to some 
 who felt an interest in her religious welfare, 
 that the pure principle of light and life, was 
 gradually rising into dominion in her soul. 
 
 It was ever her disposition, as much as pos- 
 sible, to conceal the exercises she passed through; 
 and they were accordingly seldom discoverable, 
 except by those who were endued with spiritual 
 discernment. To such it was matter ot no sur- 
 prise when, about the 25th year of her age, she 
 appeared in public ministry. 
 
ANN DYMOND. 11 
 
 The first memorandum after her coming forth 
 in this important work, is dated 21st of oth 
 Month, 1798. 
 
 I am like one bereft of every enjoyment. I 
 mourn ; I abhor myself, and long to feel my 
 mind brought into more subjection to the Di- 
 vine will. Oh ! that He in whom is life, and 
 at whose right hand are rivers of pleasure, may 
 be pleased to preserve me in this hour of tempta- 
 tion ; that He may be pleased to open the eyes 
 of my understanding, to discover the approaches 
 of the adversary ; and if consistent with his 
 pure will, to strengthen my feeble desires to 
 follow Ilim in the way of His most holy lead- 
 ings, and to enable me to dedicate the remainder 
 of my days to bis service. O Lord, grant, I 
 beseech thee, resignation to Thy most holy 
 will ; let it be what it may : rather take me 
 from this stage of life, than suffer that I should 
 live to dishonour Thee, 
 
 27th. Still begging preservation, under a 
 sense of deep inward poverty; but had, in a 
 little family sitting this evening, to acknowledge 
 in the secret of my own heart, that " The Lord 
 is good, and His mercy endureth for ever." 
 
12 SOME ACCOUNT CV 
 
 I think it is many weeks since T felt so much 
 of the incomes of his Divine love. May I be 
 sufficiently thankful for this His unspeakable 
 favor ! His thus trying and proving me, I hope, 
 in due humility, to acknowledge as a blessing 
 from His hands. 
 
 As to opening my mouth in meetings, it has 
 seemed, for many weeks past, as far from me 
 as if I had never known snch a concern ; and 
 whether it may ever be the case again, is quite 
 hidden from me : But be that as it may, patience 
 and true resignation is what I now crave. 
 
 %th 3To. V7th. Attended a burial, and had 3 , 
 towards the close of the meeting, to express a 
 few words in. great fear, and, I hope, in a good 
 degree of humility ; which is the first time I 
 have opened my mouth in that way for some 
 months past. Indeed so great has been my po- 
 verty, that L have, at seasons, been ready to 
 conclude myself to be forsaken of the Lord. 
 But oh ! I have had secretly to rejoice, and 
 give thanks to my gracious Master, for. this- 
 trial, having had a hope raised that it will be- 
 blessed, by purifying my poor souL 
 
SECTION II. 
 
 Seasons for keeping a Diary-*— Close Exercises of Mmd-—* 
 Desires for resignation to Divine disposal — Concern for 
 the professors of Christianity— First engagement in re* 
 Kgious service. 
 
 1798. 1th M o.23d. I feel some desire to pen 
 st few remarks, although I have scarcely- an idea 
 that what I write is likely ever to be of service 
 to any one ; but the perusal of it, at some fu- 
 ture day, may perhaps prove a little help to my 
 own mind, in reviving and bringing to remem- 
 brance, the wonderful condescension of the great 
 and good Master towards one, in my own view, 
 of the most unworthy. I have abundant cause 
 to commemorate His goodness in preserving me, 
 in some small degree, alive to the ever blessed 
 truth ; and in leading me about, and instruct- 
 ing me in His most holy law. 
 
 8th Mo. 2£th, I have of late had some severe 
 trials to pass through, both inwardly and out- 
 wardly ; some of them unknown to any mortal. 
 What has much increased my grief is, that I 
 Lave been misunderstood, even by those froa* 
 
14 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 whom I might have expected sympathy in my 
 sufferings; all which I humbly trust will have a 
 tendency to draw my attention from outward 
 objects, an;l to fix it within, on the one great 
 source of every good :— and may I accept these 
 dispensations as from his bounteous hand, or- 
 dered, no doubt, in wisdom for my good. It 
 is hard to the natural part, but, alas ! it is that 
 part that can have no share in the glorious in- 
 heritance of true peace. May the things that 
 belong hereunto, be my only pursuit! 
 
 I long to be given up to therequirings of my 
 Heavenly Father, and to be willing to suffer all 
 things, and endure all- things, for the sake of 
 my blessed Redeemer ; without which there is 
 210 true reigning with Him. Oh, Holy Father I 
 make me willing ; and bring me down again 
 and again to the potter's house, and there form 
 snd fashion me a vessel fit for Thy use, and 
 make me what Thou wouldst have me to be. 
 Oh ! preserve me in a steadfast reliance on 
 Thee, and enable me to say in truth : " Lord I 
 will follow. Thee; be thou my God, and I will 
 serve Thee. Keep me in this holy resolution, 
 and never suffer my feet to retrace the paths of 
 folly and vanity." 
 
ANN DYMOND. 15 
 
 10//* Mo. 3d. The tempter is very busy with 
 his baits, to ensnare my poor mind ; but it is no 
 sin to be tempted. May infinite goodness see 
 meet to preserve me from falling in therewith, 
 in this day of deep proving ; and in bis own 
 time be graciously pleased to manifest his ever- 
 lusting* Arm of power for my deliverance 1 
 
 10th Mo. \Ath. Still under great conflict; yet 
 I have to admire the wonderful condescension 
 and mercy of my great and good Master, who 
 is pleased to give me to believe that He is near 
 to help. Slay my desire increase, to make a 
 full surrender of all that he is pleased to call 
 for at my hands ; and may I be willing to suf- 
 fer all things, for His cause sake L 
 
 How I long that the professors of Christianity 
 were more generally possessors of it ! But, alas ! 
 instead of this, how do we see many who are 
 making the high and holy profession thereof, 
 trampling its testimonies under their feet, and,. 
 in their conduct, denying those principles in 
 which they profess to believe! My heart is of- 
 ten ready to break forth ^ in this language : 
 Ci Shall not God visit for these things ! Will he 
 not be avenged on such a people as this r" 
 
J6 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 IQth Mo. 20th, In a little family sitting this 
 evening, I had to acknowledge, in the secret 
 of my heart, the justice and mercy of an in- 
 scrutable God, in thus trying and proving me 
 in many ways ; and I had humbly to crave His 
 Messing of preservation still to attend me, 
 through this state of probation ; and that lie 
 would be pleased thoroughly, to purge the floor 
 of my heart, and make me wholly His at all 
 times. Sweet have beea the incomes of his 
 love to me this evening ! . 
 
 I feel longing desires to be freely given up 
 to serve Him, in the way that he is calling for ; 
 although very much opposed to my own nature. 
 I cannot find words to set forth the anxiety and 
 travail of my spirit, for many months past. In- 
 deed I have oftimes been ready, unadvisedly, to 
 wish I had never had a being, or that I had 
 died very young. I know this proceeds from 
 an unsubjected will, which perhaps I am more 
 tried with by nature than some others. May I 
 patiently abide the turnings of His holy hand 
 upon me, and render the sacrifice of obedience; 
 for 1 have thankfully to believe that all these 
 appointed conflicts are, in infinite wisdom, for- 
 my good, and for my furtherance in the. eves 
 Messed ti'uth. 
 
ANN DYMONOt IT 
 
 llth Mo, %6th, I have continued need to im- 
 plore all merciful help to prepare my heart as a 
 purified templo, fit for the Holy One to dwell 
 in. I am thankful to feel that there is so much 
 of what may be called a spark of life left in me, 
 a poor unworthy creature, as for me to have a 
 desire after that which is good, This has, at 
 times, when tried with bufferings, fears, and 
 doubts, proved like an anchor to my soul ; and 
 has afforded a hope that I am not wholly for- 
 saken, even when I have been much stripped 
 of a sense of good. 
 
 Through infinite mercy, I have been favored 
 to see that all these things are for my refine- 
 ment ; and I think I have known a greater de- 
 gree of resignation to the Divine will, than I 
 have before experienced. It was when this re- 
 signation was attained, and not till then, that 
 the Great I Am was pi ased to arise for my 
 help and deliverance. He tuned my harp, and 
 put a new song into my mouth : " Even praises 
 to my God >" and thus I was enabled to say : 
 " It is the Lord's doing, and marvellous in 
 mine eyes !?' Surely there is no God like unto 
 our God, a comforter in affliction ! Who can 
 but love Him ! A rich re warder of all those who 
 
18 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 are willing to surrender up all unto Him, that he 
 is calling for at our hands ! How does he work 
 for us, and in us, if we are but enough willing 
 to cast our care upon Him, and trust under ths 
 shadow of his Almighty wing! Marvellous in- 
 deed are hi& works, can my soul testify ; and 
 righteous are his judgments : His ways are un- 
 searchable by human understanding. It is only 
 as He himself is pleased to open and unfold the 
 mysteries of His kingdom, that we can know 
 them. Oh, my soul ! trust thou in the Lord, 
 who hath hitherto helped thee; and implore His 
 gracious aid to preserve thee in patience, and 
 to strengthen thee to suffer all things for his 
 same's sake. 
 
 1799. No notice being taken by A. Dyraond 
 of her first engagement in religious service, the 
 following account may be acceptable : — In the 
 early part of this year, a family visit having 
 been recently paid in her native city and county, 
 to such only as were members of our religious 
 society, her mind became exercised on behalf 
 of a pretty numerous class, who were more or 
 less in the practice of attending our meetings, 
 Such as had either been disunited or were of 
 
ANN DVMOND, 19 
 
 the description of inquirers after the way to 
 Zion ; and she apprehended it her duty to lay 
 her concern before her monthly meeting. A 
 friend, who afterwards became her frequent 
 companion in religious engagements being pre- 
 sent, found an unexpected impression of duty 
 to offer to unite in the undertaking. 
 
 The proposal received the approbation of the 
 meeting, and liberty having been also obtained 
 from the monthly meeting, of which the indivi- 
 dual alluded to was a member, the service was- 
 soon after performed ; and it tended to the" 
 peaceful relief of their minds. 
 
 The following extracts from the Diary may: 
 close the present Section. 
 
 1799. 7th Month, 15th. My mind has been, 
 after passing through many and deey) proba- 
 tions, brought into a sweet feeling of the mani ■ 
 fold mercies of the Almighty, and humbled un- 
 der a sense of my great unworthiness of the 
 least of his favours. My soul has secretly to 
 acknowledge that He is good, anil worthy to 
 be feared, honored, and obeyed; and earnest 
 
20 I03J1 ACCOUNT OF 
 
 is the breathing and desire of my heart that Hit 
 preserving power may still be extended for my 
 help ; that I may, through it, be enabled to en- 
 dure whatever he may, in His infinite wisdom, 
 see meet to appoint unto me, tor my further 
 refinement. O ! Lord my God ! Thou only 
 knowest the desire which I feel, above all things, 
 to be found following Thee ! Help, I beseech 
 Thee, with a little help ; for if Thou help not, 
 there is none that can help ; and without Thy 
 help, O Lord f I can do nothing to Thy praise, 
 or the glory of Thy name. Pardon, Father, 
 my past omissions and commissions, and pre- 
 serve me from felling into temptation. Be 
 pleased to be with me in heights and in depths; 
 and strengthen me to stand nobly for the cause- 
 of Thy truth on earth. Give me, O Lord! 
 bread to eat and raiment to put on, and be- 
 Thou with me ; and in Thy appointment I will 
 follow Thee whithersoever thou art pleased to 
 lead me. And, if it please Thee, extend Thy 
 chastening rod over me ; yet remember mercy, 
 and, in thy own time, restore unto me the 
 joys of Thy salvation, and put the song of 
 praise into my mouth ; which, ever adored be 
 Thy name, Thou hast been pleased to do this 
 moraiair. 
 
-ANN DTMOND. 21 
 
 13th of 10th Month, Very weak in body ; 
 t>ut I feel something of the incomes of Divine 
 love, which refreshes my poor mind, and ena- 
 bles it to bear the pain of the body with- 
 out murmuring. Oh, Holy Father ! all good 
 comes from Thee. It is Thou that canst enable 
 Thy poor weak children to bear the dispensa- 
 tions of Thy will without repining : Keep me 
 wholly dedicated to Thy service ; to go at Thy 
 command, and to stay, when Thou sayest stay; 
 that 1 may be fully devoted to Thee in all things. 
 
SECTION in. 
 
 -Visit to the Counties of So7nerset, Dorset, Hants, and 
 Wilts, accompanied by P. H. Gio^ney. 
 
 2~th cf 3d Month, 1800. Having obtained 
 the approbation of my friends in a concern for 
 paying a visit to several counties, I arrived this 
 evening at Wellington, and met my dear friend 
 P. H. Gurnev, who intends to join me in this 
 
 28f/L I feel this morninglike one stripped of 
 all armour ; yet thankful in experiencing a good 
 degree of dependance on that Arm of power 
 which alone is able to qualify for every holy re- 
 quisition. My I be enough engaged to trust 
 in Him for my daily supply. 
 
 We have sat with six families in this place. 
 My dear companion has had acceptable service, 
 and it has been my lot to wade through in si- 
 lence, except a few words in one of them ; yet 
 I have been made humbly thankful in feeling 
 the good hand to be near to sustain my mind 
 in a degree of patience and holy resignation; 
 
ANN DYMOND. 23 
 
 and have to close this day in a comfortable hope 
 of having been exercised in a manner consistent 
 with His holy will. 
 
 2§th. We have had six sittings this day : in 
 some of them my mouth was opened to speak a 
 little to the states of the visited ; and blessed 
 be the name of the Most High, I feel quiet, 
 which is an unutterable favor, after having had 
 some close conflicts to pass through. 
 
 30th. Being the 1st of the week, we sat with 
 friends in their meeting this morning, and had 
 a public meeting in the evening, which felt a 
 low time; yet although but little was said, I 
 trust it ended well. My mind this evening is 
 much sunk under discouragement, lest I should 
 be found exercising myself in matters too high 
 forme, or in running without being sent; but 
 He who knows what is best for us, and tries 
 his little ones for purposes of his own glory, 
 which the natural man cannot understand, has 
 been graciously pleased to hand a word of en- 
 couragement, through the medium of a favored 
 in strument : may all the praise be given to Him 
 to whom alone it is due ! 
 
24 SOME ACCOUNT X>E 
 
 31st My mind this morning feels a little 
 «taid upon the Lord, and my strength renewed 
 in God my Saviour. May I be preserved in 
 due dependance on him, and may I ascribe to 
 Him thanksgiving and praise for ever and for 
 evermore, saith my soul ! We have had five 
 sittings this day, which I hope have been got 
 through to a good degree of satisfaction, though 
 I fear that on my part there was not so strict a 
 dependance en the gift of revelation as there 
 should have been ; which has caused me sorrow 
 of heart, and created a renewed desire that I 
 may be more carefully attentive in future. 
 
 1st of 4th Month. We have had this day to 
 commemorate the mercy and kindness of our 
 Heavenly Father, in a visit or two to some not 
 professing with us, the countenance of one of 
 whom had attracted my mind at the public meet- 
 ing. In the performance of -this visit we felt 
 sweet peace, and left Wellington under a 
 sense thereof. 
 
 2o? of 4th Month. Attended the week-day 
 meeting at Milverton, which was low in the 
 fore part ; but by endeavouring to dwell with 
 the seed, in patient, humble dependance on the 
 
ANN DtMOND. 25 
 
 13ivine Arm alone, truth arose, and ability was ] 
 given to minister to the people in an arousing 
 testimony to some, and in the language of en- 
 couragement to others ; and I was favored to 
 leave the town under a renewed sense of the 
 Lord's protecting care, and with an easy mind. 
 S. Young accompanied me to Minehead, "Be- 
 fore we reached this place, I felt such a weight 
 of suffering and depression as cannot well be 
 -described : My heart was loaded, and I could 
 not tell why; but such a sympathy is there be- 
 tween mind and body, that one suffers with the 
 other ; and I felt so ill, that I was obliged to 
 go to bed long before my companions. How 
 admirable is the wisdom and the goodness of 
 the Almighty, in thus introducing his little de- 
 pendant ones into sympathy with the pure seed 
 of His kingdom, whether it be in suffering or 
 in rejoicing ! 
 
 We sat with friends here in their little meet^ 
 ing on fifth day, and there had to declare some 
 things hard to be received ; but I believe 
 the evidence was felt of their being the language 
 of truth. We had, after meeting, five sittings 
 in the families of friends ; and as we kept in a 
 state of dependance on the spirit of true revela- 
 
 s 
 
26 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 tion, we were favored to clear ourselves to the 
 peace of our own minds. 
 
 &th of Ath Month. We reached Chilliswood 
 this afternoon, where we rested, and truly en- 
 joyed ourselves with my beloved parent and 
 other relatives. 
 
 5th. We were favored to part with them ue- 
 der the covering and influence of best love, 
 which I esteemed a favor on my own account. 
 It seemed like a refreshing brook by the way to 
 the poor weary traveller. We reached Ilmin- 
 ster that evening ; and here we were not with- 
 out a portion of exercise and proving. We sat 
 their morning meeting, in which, by keeping low 
 and humble, and being willing to get down 
 deep enough for the spring, we were favored 
 with the rich reward of true peace. 
 
 After dinner, my dear companion felt an en- 
 gagement to have a few neighbours invited to 
 attend the meeting, and to have it put off until 
 six o'clock in the evening; but instead of a few, 
 the meeting-house was crowded. We were, 
 however, helped through to a comfortable de- 
 gree of satisfaction, and left Ilminster with re- 
 lieved minds. 
 
ANN DYMOND. 27 
 
 We attended the monthly meeting at Sher- 
 borne on 3d day, where our minds were exceed- 
 ingly low : and I thought I felt so stript and 
 deprived of good, that I was ready (as indeed 
 I have been several times on the journe}) to call 
 in question all that was passed, and to conclude 
 I had given way to delusion. However, at a 
 juncture when our faith (at least mine) seemed 
 to be tried as to a hair's breadth, a little encou- 
 ragement and strengthening consolation was 
 handed, through the instrumental labour of our 
 dear friend Win. Rawes, w r ho came into the 
 women's meeting ; a sweet cordial it was to me 
 in particular. The select meeting was exer- 
 cising, and what made it more so was, that a 
 small portion of bread appeared te be handed 
 me, which through discouragement I was 
 tempted to refuse, and so had to come away 
 worse than empty, burdened with conviction 
 of unfaithfulness. 
 
 Visiting* Compton and Yeovil, we reached 
 Bridport on the 12th. A meeting was procured 
 here at my request, of which my dear compa- 
 nion had not to feel much of the weight ; but 
 was freely and sweetly given up to it. The 
 prospect of it was deeply exercising to me for 
 
 b 2 
 
28 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 some days before, and no way appeared for me to 
 get relief but by my proposing it to friends there ; 
 who readily acquiesced. I found it my place to 
 request general information to be given ; and 
 we had not been seated long before the house 
 was filled ; indeed many more came than could 
 get seats. We found ourselves completely 
 stripped of outward help, and it appeared to be 
 our business io sit a pretty longtime in silence, 
 when something opened on my mind towards 
 the people, and I ventured, in great weakness, 
 to stand up ; but after expressing a few sen- 
 tences, in a manner I thought scarcely to be 
 understood, 1 felt the spring so to close up, 
 that I was obliged te sit down, in which I had 
 peace. From what cause my feelings arose, I 
 must leave ; but I am ready to believe that the 
 people were in expectation of great things. My 
 companion's feelings were nearly similar to 
 mine ; but she was favored to declare gospel 
 truths in a lively though short testimony amongst 
 them, of which I was glad : and although 
 both of us, after meeting, were beset with great 
 discouragements, so that it seemed nearly to 
 overwhelm us, yet I have to believe, from the 
 sweet evidence which has since attended my 
 mind, that the meeting was owned, and the sa- 
 
ANN DYMOND* 29- 
 
 cpifitfe accepted by Him, whom alone to serve, 
 we desire above all things. 
 
 We left Bridport with the fresh feeling and 
 evidence of that peace which is the reward of 
 simple dedication, for which and all other fa- 
 yors and mercies, we desire to bow in deep hu- 
 mility before the Most High in every of his re- 
 quirings, however suffering to our nature ; and 
 to look singly to Him for ability in all our fu- 
 ture stoppings. I have often, from the trying 
 situation of my mind, since I have been from 
 home, been ready to think it might bear some 
 comparison to that of the deeply exercised ser- 
 vant of the Lord, Job Scott ; and a language 
 from day to day hath been raised in me : " Spare 
 not, O Lord ! until Thou hast perfected Thy 
 work in me ; bind me still more closely to the 
 horns of the altar, that the sacrifice may at 
 length be found acceptable in thy sight." 
 
 In a letter from Bridport, the subj eCt of this 
 memoir writes as follows : — " Thus much 1 can 
 say, that I never felt myself more nearly united 
 in. my spirit to you, than since I left you and 
 embarked in this weighty embassy, which indeed 
 is a great favor. to me; lor I feel myself often 
 
 b 3 
 
30 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 .in that state, that 1 can say, a little love for my 
 friends and sympathy with them, is the only 
 good I possess. Surely never was such a poor 
 unlit creature sent out or employed ahout the 
 great Master's errands before ! Well, it is not 
 our business to call in question his reqnirings. 
 "He will send by whom He will send;" and it 
 is at times His will and good pleasure to make 
 use of the weakest and most despicable instru- 
 ments to effect His own purposes. " He will 
 choose the weak and the foolish things of this 
 world to confound the wisdom of the wise, and 
 even things that are not to bring to nought 
 tilings that are." 
 
 From Bridport we reached Poole on the 15ih, 
 and on the 17th, we entered on the work of vi- 
 siting the families in this place. I may just 
 add, that we are in the comfortable possession 
 of that peace, which is more than ail earthly en- 
 joyments. Oh ! the wonderful condescension 
 of our Heavenly Father ! I wish we may still 
 be preserved watchful and dependant. 
 
 22 d. We have visited twenty-three families. 
 The exercise of mind has, at times since I have 
 been here, far exceeded what I ever experi- 
 
ANN DYMOND. 31 
 
 enced before. Oh, saith my soul, may it prove 
 a means of my further refinement! 
 
 24//i. We are at Poole still ; and have con- 
 eluded to stay over first day. We were both 
 somewhat tried at this delay, lest it should, in 
 the minds of our friends, wear the appearance 
 of indolence, and become burdensome to them. 
 However, after deliberating and weighing the 
 matter pretty much in our own minds, we had 
 to believe it would conduce most to our peace 
 to stay ; and since we have come to this con- 
 clusion, I may acknowledge I have felt quiet 
 and easy about it ; and I hope it will not prove 
 a hurt to the cause any way. I believe, if I 
 am favored to know my own heart, it was in 
 nothing short of a full belief of its being the Di- 
 vine requiring, that I undertook this journey ; 
 and in some tried seasons, I have felt strength 
 to appeal to Him, who knows all things, that I 
 have been made willing to give up my all, though 
 it might be, comparatively with some others, 
 accounted a little all, to follow Him in the way 
 in which He may be pleased to lead, although 
 it may be like a continual scene of trial and 
 proving. It may be necessary for me to expe- 
 rience large portions of the wormwood and gall 
 
 s 4 
 
32 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 to be handed to me, as my daily food, yet I am 
 encouraged to hope, in the confidence of this, 
 that all things will work together for good, to 
 those who truly love and fear the Lord. 
 
 We left Poole in a degree of, I trust, hum- 
 ble thankfulness, and with a feeling of the pre- 
 cious evidence of peace. We had thirty-two 
 sittings besides meetings, and other casual op- 
 portunities, in which our feeble endeavours 
 amongst them were, in a good degree, owned 
 by our great and good Master. 
 
 After leaving Poole, they took some meet- 
 ings and visited families at Salisbury, on their 
 ** ay to the Yearly Meeting. When this w as 
 over, they returned again into the same field of 
 labour, by Uxbridge, Staines, and Alton, visit- 
 ing families at the latter place. Taking some 
 other meetings in their way, they proceeded to 
 the quarterly meeting at Fordingbridge; and 
 after visiting the few families there, cur friend 
 w r as tried with their way being shut up, as to 
 how further to proceed. Respecting her situa- 
 tion of mind at that place, she thus writes : — 
 
 « Newport, Isle of Wight, 1th Mo. 12tk> 
 1800. — Though I was mercifully favored to la- 
 
ANN DTTVrOND. TNf 
 
 £or amongst friends at the quarterly meeting at 
 Fordingbridge, and was truly glad of the com- 
 pany of many of them, yet I felt so clouded as 
 to proceeding towards Wiltshire, that, no other 
 prospect openng with clearness to proceed, we 
 concluded to stay quietly there, and endeavour 
 after patience and resignation, in this trying 
 season : — indeed it was so to me ; for I believe 
 my beloved companion did not feel so much of 
 it as myself. My mind was y I think, more tried 
 than any language can set forth. However, 
 that Arm which hath wonderfully wrought de- 
 liverance for His little ones in times past, was 
 revealed in a season of extremity, for the help 
 of my poor captive mind ; and I felt best satis- 
 fied to acquaint the few friends in that place, of 
 a prospect which had many times, since we had 
 been on this journey, rested with me, and I 
 thought was again revived, of coming to this 
 island; but I had felt much discouraged at 
 looking at it, on many accounts. Our friends 
 expressed much unity and sympathy with us, 
 and encouraged our going." 
 
 In their visit to the Isle of Wight, they wer^ 
 joined by Samuel Dyer, Some of the follow- 
 
 i5 
 
34 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 ing extracts are made from memorandums and 
 letters written on that island. 
 
 " 7th Mo. lith.—We came to Southampton 
 on the 11th; called on some families and sat 
 ■with them, to my relief and encouragement — 
 crossed the water, and arrived at this place, 
 Newport, Isle of Wight, /m the 12th. The 
 13th, being first day, we had two meetings 
 here ; both, I believe, owned by the oversha- 
 dowing of Divine good. My mind was exer- 
 cised nearly in silence : though I had a little to 
 offer in testimony in the morning, which tended 
 io peace; for ever blessed and praised be his- 
 Uoly Name, who is thus graciously pleased to 
 be near, for the help of His little dependent 
 ones. May I be preserved in patience, and yet 
 more and more experience those things that re- 
 main in me, which stand opposed to his Holy 
 will, to be removed out of the way ; and my 
 mind to be reduced into a perfect nothingness 
 of self. Oh ! this is a great attainment ! 
 
 10th. We had a meeting at Carisbrook on 
 the 14th. It was satisfactory, and afforded 
 cause of encouragement to our minds ; and I was 
 
ANN DYMOND. 35 
 
 comforted in the belief that the good Hand was 
 mercifully near for our help. We yesterday had 
 a meeting at Yarmouth. It proved a discou- 
 raging time ; and my mind was, I thought, in- 
 troduced in seme degree into the state of the 
 people; but may I he enabled to endure all 
 things for truth's sake, and to say : That " In 
 whatsoever state I am, therewith I am content." 
 Happy attainment ! but which I fear, for want 
 of faith, 1 shall not readily experience. Oh ! 
 may my soul it solve and hope to the end ! Hold 
 fast the confidence of thy faith without waver- 
 ing, that thine may be the crown at last ! 
 
 We yesterday had a meeting at Ryde, which 
 ended comfortably, except as to myself. I felt 
 condemnation for withholding more than was 
 meet ; but merciful and gracious is He with 
 whom we have to do, who was pleased to be 
 near in the evening, at a meeting at Wooton, 
 in which I was enabled to discharge myself 
 and felt peace. Blessed be his Holy Name 
 for ever ; to Him alone belongeth praise, saith 
 my soul ! 
 
 On the 18th we went to Cowes, and had a 
 meeting in the evening to good satisfaction, 
 
36 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 After meeting we had a heart tendering oppor- 
 tunity with some Methodists, some of whom, 
 had come five miles in order to have a little 
 more of our company. We parted with them 
 under a sense of best love ; and we felt them 
 sweetly united to our spirits, in a belief that 
 they are, in an especial manner, under Divine 
 notice ; and that their minds are measurably 
 opened into the paths of Divine truth. Much 
 do I desire that they may be preserved and 
 brought nearer to the Holy head, and experi- 
 ence an establishment on that Sure Rock against 
 which nothing can prevail. 
 
 On the 19th they returned to Southampton* 
 and taking several meetings between that day 
 and the 26th, went to Devizes, respecting? 
 whieh she says : 
 
 <c We have been engaged in a visit to the fa- 
 milies, through which I have felt my mind 
 much stripped of all good, and very much be- 
 set with temptation, by the great enemy of my 
 soul ; but I comfortably remember, that in the 
 Lord alone is everlasting strength ; and I know 
 te will not suffer me to be tried beyond what 
 
ANN DYMOND. 37 
 
 he will abilitate me to bear, if my mind is staid 
 on Him alone." 
 
 In a letter written during this engagement, 
 she says : " I dare not perplex myself with 
 looking towards home, believing it would be 
 more acceptable in the Divine sight to keep or 
 be kept in a state of patient resignation. Our 
 line is singular, I think ; and it is not a little 
 trying to be so many times, at the same places. 
 If you can, do, my dear brother and sister, 
 sympathize with me. My mind is indeed much 
 tried various ways ; but I am oft afraid my con- 
 flicts are increased, by grving way to too anxi- 
 ous a desire to be released from this station. I 
 am a poor weak creature every way ; yet I am, 
 at times, favored to feel a desire raised for my 
 own preservation as well as that of others." 
 
 They left Devizes on the 8th of 8th month ; 
 and after taking several meetings, she says : 
 
 " 13th. We had a public meeting at Tather- 
 ton, a village about five miles from Calne, 
 where we lodged. There we found a number 
 of solid, and, I believe, seeking people among 
 the Moravians. I sincerely wish they may noi 
 
33 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 leave seeking, or rest satisfied with any tiling 
 short of the pure, eternal substance. We had a 
 preciously favored meeting at that place : the 
 people in general appeared serious, and well sa- 
 tisfied with the silent part of the meeting which 
 was not short ; and I think it might be said 
 truth reigned over all. 
 
 (i litk. We bad a public meeting at Broom- 
 ham ; it was smali, and rather dull. 
 
 u loth. Were at their week-day meeting at 
 Calne, which was a precious opportunity. 
 
 " 16th. We had one at Chippenham, with the 
 few professors there ; and that evening went to 
 Grittleton ; next morning attended their meet- 
 ing at Hallvington, and in the evening a large 
 public one at Slaughterford. The place was 
 very much crowded, and the peoples minds 
 appeared rather afloat ; but truth arose, and abi- 
 lity was afforded to labour amongst them, to 
 good satisfaction, and to the relief of our own 
 minds, after they had been in some measure 
 warned of the dangerous situation they were in; 
 and sincere desires, both publicly and privately, 
 were put up for their improvement in the way 
 of salvation, 
 
ANN DYMOND. 39 
 
 18th. Was spent in visiting a number of per- 
 sons who have, for some time past, attended 
 friends' meetings, and appear to be, in some 
 measure, convinced of our principles. We were 
 pleased that we gave up to visit them, and de- 
 sire for them, that they may be preserved on 
 the right foundation. 
 
 " 19th. We had a truly precious meeting at 
 Chippenham, appointed for the public. It was 
 small, but the Divine Presence was near, to 
 our consolation and comfort. We proceeded 
 to Melksham the same evening." 
 
 Here her companion was detained a few days 
 by indisposition. Before they left Melksham,, 
 they were joined by Richard Gilks, who conti- 
 nued with them until they reached Bristol oa 
 the 30th. 
 
 2c? of 9th Month— Richard Gilks and myself 
 attended a meeting appointed for us at Keyn- 
 sham. This was one which I hope will be sen- 
 sibly remembered by me. For want of due 
 attention and watchfulness, and a strict de- 
 pendence on Him who will clearly direct when 
 
49 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 to close as well as when to open, I was tempted 
 to exceed the Divine limitation in my testimony j,. 
 and thereby I got bewildered, and sat down in 
 shame and confusion, feeling condemned for my 
 error. Oh! how necessary it is for all those 
 engaged in ministering to others, .to keep watch- 
 ful care constantly against the adversary, when 
 is, indeed, ever busy in endeavouring to en- 
 snare us, one way or the other' Ah ! how he 
 varies his baits !— This was a time of deep* 
 abasement to me ; yet I felt some degree of. 
 thankfulness that I saw my error; although the 
 enemy afterwards tried to prevail, by drawing, 
 me into a state of despair ; but blessed be the 
 name and power of the Most High, which was 
 mercifully underneath, and preserved me from 
 altogether giving way to his insinuations. In- 
 deed the state of my mind was such, that had 
 not a power above human, invisibly preserved, 
 me, I had been likely even to have desired 
 death. It would be impossible for me to describe 
 in words, the situation of my mind, from fear 
 that the cause would suffer through my mistake, 
 
 I cannot set forth the deep plunges and hu- 
 miliating dispensations I had to pass through 
 for this \ but it is, I believe, imprinted in deep 
 
ANN DYMOND* £1 
 
 and legible characters in the book of my heart, 
 never* I hope, never to be forgotten, whilst I 
 am favored with life and recollection* 
 
 3c?. Had a meeting at Hallowtrow. Here I 
 felt deep inward abasement from the foregoing 
 circumstance : both my dear companions were 
 favored to bear living testimonies among the 
 people. After passing through such a season 
 as I never before experienced, the spirit of sup- 
 plication came over me ; I fell on my knees ? 
 and, in wonderful mercy, was helped through 
 that exercise to the comfort of my dear compa- 
 nions, and to my own relief; and had to return 
 from that meeting with a mind overflowing with, 
 thankfulness, joy, and peace. O Lord ! pre- 
 set e me, I humbly beseech Thee, more and 
 more in thy Holy Fear ! and destroy all that re- 
 mains in me, that can move in the least degree 
 without Thy holy aid and assistance; that I may 
 Hot err on the right hand or the left. 
 
 4th, My dear companion being too unwell, R. 
 Gilks and myself attended the week-day meeting 
 at Hallowtrow^and were favored with, a good 
 degree of ability to minister to the few friends 
 present. After dinner, we all three proceeded 
 
42 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 to Chew ; had a public meeting in the evenings 
 which was small, but I believe owned by the 
 good Shepherd. 
 
 5th. Returned to Bristol. In this city I had 
 much conflict of mind and little relief ; however 
 I trust I was preserved from doing harm. We 
 left Bristol after the quarterly meeting, and had 
 meetings atClaverham, Sidcot, Axbridge, Ban- 
 well, and other places, and visited the families 
 ©f friends ofdaverham meeting, through a por- 
 tion of suffering with the seed in that place, yet 
 with a hope that we had been endeavouring to 
 do our duty in honesty amongst them ; and on 
 the 4th of 10th Month we reached Glastonbury. 
 
 She returned home on 10th of 10th Month, 
 with feelings of peaceful quietude in the retro- 
 spect of her journey. ' 
 
SECTION IV. 
 
 Wsit^to some of the Eastern Couniiec, 
 A. Dymond thus resumes her Diary in 1801 i 
 
 4th Month, 21 st. Having for a long time 
 found my mind drawn in gospel love towards 
 friends in Esses, Norfolk, and Suffolk, at our 
 last monthly meeting, I laid my concern before 
 our friends; and this day obtained a certificate 
 of unity and concurrence therewith. I intend, if 
 life and health permit, to set forward to our 
 ensuing yearly meeting in London, at which I 
 expect to be joined by my endeared companion, 
 P. II. Gurney, and proceed, soon after its ter- 
 mination, on the aforesaid visit. 
 
 Chelmsford, 6th Month, 6f/i. Yearly Meet- 
 ing being now over, we are come thus far on 
 our intended visit to some of the eastern coun- 
 ties. Although, for the most part since I left 
 home, I have felt stripped of good, particularly 
 so during the time of the yearly meeting ; and, 
 with respect to the solemn prcspect before us, 
 I have felt my mind deeply proved with blind- 
 
<A£ St>ME ACCOUNT OP 
 
 ness and abasement of the creature ; yet, through 
 all, I have humbly and thankfully to acknow- 
 ledge that best preservation hath been extended 
 towards me, a poor worm. A. good degree of 
 resignation has been experienced ; and my heart 
 has been made to say: "The Lord is good, 
 and worthy to be feared, honoured, and obeyed. 
 
 They attended the quarterly meetings at Col- 
 chester, Woodbridge, and Norwich, visited the 
 families at Ipswich, and attended some other 
 meetings in their way to Yarmouth. 
 
 At Yarmouth are dated the following memo- 
 randums: — Before and since we came to this 
 place, it has appeared as though it would be 
 required of us to sit with the families here ; but 
 the way is at present so closed up in our minds, 
 that it seems as if we could not move in it ; 
 therefore I know of no better way than to stand 
 still in patience ; for it will not do to move un- 
 der a cloud : neither is the prospect removed 
 from us. This is trying to our nature and un- 
 accountable to others; but perhaps it may 
 prove a profitable dispensation^ however muck 
 in the. cross. 
 
A^'N DYMOKD. 45 
 
 On fourth day evening, we were inclined to 
 take tea with a friend's family, and thought, if 
 way opened, we would have a religious oppor- 
 tunity with them afterwards, which we had, and 
 were helped ; but we still felt our way not clearly 
 opened to proceed. Yesterday morning was 
 week-day meeting, which we attended of course, 
 and to which pretty many of the town's people 
 came, to whom my companion was enabled to 
 deliver gospel truths, I thought, in the power 
 and demonstration of the spirit; but I was still 
 like one bound in chains and darkness, very 
 much distressed, not knowing what to do. Af- 
 ter meeting, we thought it might not be unsafe 
 to try at least two families in the evening, leav- 
 ing the proposing of any thing further. This we 
 did, but were far from obtaining full relief. At 
 our return from the two visits mentioned, we 
 'found our friend Richard Jordan, from Ame- 
 rica, was come with an intention to embark for 
 Haioburgh ; and we felt at liberty to tell him 
 how it was with us ; which I may confess was 
 210 small relief to my mind. 
 
 'Richard Jordan being disposed to accompany 
 them through part of their engagement, they 
 
4t5 .SOME ACCOUNT OT 
 
 commenced it on second day, and visited with 
 him six families, much to their satisfaction. On 
 third Day, Richard Jordan went on board the 
 packet, and they completed the service before 
 them. As it drew towards a conslusion, she 
 says : " Our minds were sweetly relieved, a favor 
 we cannot be too thankful for." After again 
 attending' some meetings in the city of Nor- 
 wich, they visited the meetings, and, in some 
 places, the families in other parts of Norfolk ; 
 and towards the close of the 8th month, returned 
 once more to Norwich. In that city is dated 
 the following memorandum : 
 
 &th Month, 180J. We yesterday evening 
 began visiting the families here. This visit 
 we each had in prospect before we left 
 home; yet on first coming to Norwich, it did 
 not seem so fully to open to our minds, as to 
 justify our entering upon it then ; so after being 
 at several meetings in the city, we left it for 
 those parts before-mentioned. Whilst we were 
 similarly engaged on that visit, we received in- 
 formation that Ann Alexander had laid her con- 
 cern before her monthly meeting, and obtained 
 a certificate to visit the families of friends in 
 this city, and of her willingness io unite with 
 
ANN DYMONDo 47 
 
 "us in the service, if the matter should revive i 
 our minds. 
 
 This was very unexpected intelligence tons; 
 and as we were then engaged in a visit to fa- 
 milies of other meetings, we did not give a de- 
 cisive answer; but as these visits began to close, 
 and the time for returning hither approached ; 
 this prospect also returned, and we believed it 
 to be most consistent with our peace to unite 
 with her therein. 
 
 9//i Month, loth. We have finished our visit 
 to the families, havingbeen favoredto g^t through 
 beyond our expectation, though we have no- 
 thing to boast of, feeling that we are indeed 
 unprofitable servants. 
 
 After they left Norwich, they had, in con- 
 junction with Ann Alexander, public meetings 
 at many places in the county of Norfolk, at se- 
 veral of which no meetings of friends were 
 known to have been held. Of one of these she 
 says : " I was tried in a way I never Avas wit- 
 ness to before : after I had been on my feet 
 some time, and one thing opened after another* 
 I had a text of scripture before me which i am 
 
4$ SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 generally as well acquainted with as any, and 
 entered upon it ; but as I went on, the latter 
 part was as effectually taken from me as though 
 1 had never known it ; so I halted, thinking it 
 would come to my recollection, but after stand- 
 ing a considerable time in silence, having the 
 people's attention and eyes all upon me, I had 
 to address the auditory, by saying : T supposed 
 they could recollect what followed, better than 
 I could just then ; so I proceeded, and was 
 helped through, to my own, and, I believe, my 
 friends' satisfaction. This was a mortifying 
 circumstance, but perhaps will prove instructive. 
 
 Of a meeting at Dereham she says: "The 
 people appeared to be much unacquainted with 
 friends and their principles ; but I think it might 
 be said, that truth rose into a good degree of 
 dominion ; and my dear companions were helped 
 to open its doctrines in a very instructive man- 
 ner, in the demonstration of the spirit and with 
 power. After meeting, as we were all sitting 
 round the dinner table at our inn, an honest, 
 simple-looking, labouring man, came into the 
 room, in a solid weighty manner. We re- 
 quested him to sit down, which he refused, say- 
 ing he was not going to stay long. Concluding 
 
ANN DVMONB. 49 
 
 lie had something to say to us, we desired the 
 waiter to leave the room, when the poor man 
 addressed us, to this effect : ' I hope He "who 
 has been with you and helped you thus far, will 
 continue with you, and carry you through. I 
 believe it is the truth of the gospel you have 
 declared, and I hope the kingdom will be 
 thrown down which is set up ;*' meaning, we 
 supposed, the kingdom of darkness in the hearts 
 -of the people. He several times repeated his 
 desire that He who had been with us and pre- 
 served us so far, would continue so to do. 
 
 " This was delivered in so weighty a manner, 
 and such a precious influence attended, that it 
 affected our minds in a way which some of us 
 will not soon forget. He shook hands and took 
 leave ; appeared very diffident, and would 
 not take any refreshment, or sit down ; and 
 seemed as if he wished to avoid saying many 
 words. This circumstance affords a convincing 
 proof, that notwithstanding the general depra- 
 vity of the people, there are, up and down, 
 a few preciously exercised minds, although very 
 BQUck hidden from outward observation." 
 
50 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 Of a meeting at Wells she says : " It was 
 large, and I believe would have ended better, 
 if we had all been faithful and simple enough ; 
 but my lot had been of late so much in silence, 
 (not, I believe, from unfaithfulness) that I had 
 not faith enough to communicate what now pre- 
 sented, and so hurt the meeting." 
 
 In a letter giving a narrative of this engage- 
 ment, the following circumstance is mentioned : 
 " I think I cannot omit to mention an interest- 
 ing circumstance, which happened at Old Lynn. 
 After meeting we went into the person's house, 
 who had lent us his granary to hold it in. He 
 had been a dissenting preacher, but had of late 
 declined officiating as such. The man had a 
 remarkably agreeable and solid countenance. 
 While we were sitting waiting for a boat to take 
 us over the ferry, I felt such a precious cover- 
 ing over us, as is not to be described by words, 
 which soon manifested itself by all gathering 
 into silence : there were divers present. I 
 very soon had to address myself to the man 
 and his wife ; and I think have seldom felt 
 more sensibly attended with best help &strength. 
 One of my companions also addressed them. 
 Yery sweetly and preciously we were rewarded 
 
ANN DYMOND. 5i 
 
 for this little act of dedication. Our visit to 
 them was received kindly, and I believe it was 
 a time of instruction to others present. 
 
 It is indeed cause of humble admiration that 
 there are those under various denominations, 
 who are initiated and initiating into the true 
 church. I wish the head of this family may be 
 preserved on the only sure foundation. 
 
 They left Norfolk on the 11th of 10th month, 
 and reached Bury that evening-, in which place 
 they visited the families of friends. After hav- 
 ing some other meetings in Suffolk, she and her 
 companion, P. H. Gurney, w r ent into Essex, 
 where they were joined by John Kirkham m 
 holding public meetings. 
 
 No occurences of peculiar interest are men- 
 tioned in her letters during this period. The 
 following memorandum was written after he* 
 return home : 
 
 *' We were engaged in this visit to the three 
 eastern counties, till about the end of the year, 
 in which time we sat with friends in their fanai- 
 
 c 2 
 
5$ some a«c©ux* of 
 
 lies, mostly through each of the counties, and 
 liad many meetings in places with those not 
 professing with us : some of them were largely 
 attended, and proved seasons of solid instruc- 
 tion. We spent some time in and about Lon- 
 don, and returned home in the second month, 
 1802, with the sweet reward of peace in our bo- 
 soms ; for which, and every other mercy, do I 
 desire to render thanksgiving and praise to Him 
 who is for ever gracious to his little dependent 
 ones. Oh ! may I be preserved in the little- 
 ness and simplicity which the truth leads into. 
 
SECTION V 
 
 Reflections at different times — J. Wheeler s Burial — Yearly 
 Meeting — Visit to some of the Midland Counties. 
 
 1802. 12th 31onth, Qtk. My mind has been 
 long in a low tried state, yet, through unutter- 
 able mercy, I have felt at seasons a little re- 
 newal of hope, and fresh springs of confidence 
 in the Almighty arm of Divine power ; so that 
 I have been favored with strength to renew 
 covenant. And oh ! that my eye and heart 
 may be preserved single to Him whom my soul 
 loveth ! that I may feel increasing willingness 
 to endure with patience, yea, thankfully to ac- 
 cept the dispensations of his rod upon mep so 
 that, through sufferings, my soul may be re- 
 deemed and made fit for an entrance into that 
 blessed kingdom, where none can say they are 
 sick. My mind is this evening humbled under 
 a sense of its own weakness ; and my spirit in- 
 clined to implore Him, who is the fountain 
 of all good, for ability to walk humbly before 
 Him. 1 have been comforted in the company 
 of some of his humble servants, to whom I feel 
 united in gospel bonds. Oh Father ! keep me, 
 I beseech thee, in thy holy hands for ever. 
 
.* SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 7th. What cause there is for ray soul to bow 
 iu humble thankfulness to the Great Disposer 
 of events, in consideration of his providence 
 this day, in preserving me from death by an 
 accident ! It is indeed truly awful, and ought 
 to arouse to diligence, in endeavouring to bav> 
 my peace made with God ; so that I may be 
 ready at a moment's call. Oh ! Holy Father I 
 preserve me, I humbly pray Thee, in this dis- 
 position ; looking unto Jesus, my Mediator 
 and Redeemer. 
 
 1803. 1st 3Ionth 9 4*7i. My mind has been 
 much turned inward, and awfully impressed 
 with the great uncertainty of time here, and the 
 great necessity of using all diligence to make 
 our calling and election sure; and oh I that my 
 gracious Father may be pleased to grant abi- 
 lity to follow and serve Him more and more 
 faithfully, although it may be to the parting 
 with that which is as near to me as life. I be- 
 seech Thee, Father ! keep me chaste towards 
 Thee and thy holy law. 
 
 2d Mo. 27th, I received information of the 
 removal from works to rewards, of our endeared 
 valued friend and brother in the truth, Joshua 
 
ANN DYMOND. 55 
 
 \\ heeler, of Hitehen, Herts, who departed this 
 life at his own house on the 21st of last month 
 in peace, and in a precious assurance of an in- 
 heritance with the saints in light. The account 
 reached me on second day, the 24th, and I soon 
 believed it best to endeavour to attend the inter- 
 ment of his remains on fifth day, the 27th; which 
 I was favored to accomplish with no smali de- 
 gree of satisfaction. The sweet incomes of peace 
 which have been vouchsafed me in the retro- 
 spect of this little giving up, are far beyond 
 w r hat I can express ; and the precious seasons 
 of participation as it were, in degree, with his 
 purified spirit, will not, I hope, be soon for- 
 gotten by me ; but will be again and again re- 
 membered with true thankfuluess unto the 
 Author of all peace, who has seen meet to try 
 us with the deprivation of such a friend. His 
 lively example and steady upright walking, in 
 patient endurance of both inward and outward 
 suffering, whilst here on earth, afford abundant 
 encouragement and instruction to those who are 
 left behind ; for indeed some of us can say, 
 that " He being dead yet speaketh." 
 
 6th Mo. 15th. Having obtained a certificate 
 at our monthly meeting in the 4th month last, 
 
 c 3 
 
56 S0M2 ACCdtfNT or 
 
 liberating me to visit friends in London and 
 Middlesex, Bedfordshire, Herts, and meetings 
 adjacent, I set forward to attend our yearly 
 meeting in London, where 1 met my dearly be- 
 loved companion, P. H. Gurney. The yearly 
 meeting was pretty largely attended, and proved 
 a season of renewed favor and instruction to 
 many minds. We have since been at Chelms- 
 ford, and at the quarterly meeting at Colches- 
 ter, to me an exercising time ; but, through fa- 
 vor, truth arose into dominion, and friends were 
 comforted together. 
 
 A. D. and her companion took a few more 
 meetings in Essex, and a few in Suffolk, in- 
 cluding the quarterly meeting at Ipswich, 
 which she says, " Was a season of renewed 
 favor and encouragement to some minds, as 
 was their week-day meeting on fourth day ; 
 seasons that will not, I trust, be soon forgotten 
 by many present; yea, I hope they will be pro- 
 fitably remembered at a future time, and thank- 
 fully commemorated by us." 
 
 Her narrative of their proceedings is conti- 
 aued as follows : 
 
ANN DYMONB. 57 
 
 w We returned to Colchester, and after leav- 
 ing that place, proceeded, by Coggeshall, Brain- 
 tree, &c. to Hitchen, where I was detained se- 
 veral weeks through indisposition, and was af- 
 fectionately cared for, by my endeared friend 
 Elizabeth, the widow of Joshua Wheeler. I 
 was under her roof about a month. The Lord 
 whom she seeks to serve, reward her for her 
 great kindness to me, a poor creature. My dear 
 companion was also my kind attendant. After 
 this, we went through the meetings of Bedford- 
 shire and Herts, sitting in families in many 
 places, which we found close, exercising work. 
 From Albans we went to Tottenham, and had 
 to sit in the families of that monthly meeting, 
 which took us about five weeks. Very mortify- 
 ing labour we had amongst them ; but through 
 all had to acknowledge that holy help was near 
 in the needful time. We left Tottenham and 
 went to Flaistow, Barking, and so to London. 
 After staying two or three days there, my dear 
 companion separated from me for a little time, 
 she going to Bath and I to Hitchen, to join my 
 dear friend Elizabeth Joshua Wheeler on a vi- 
 sit to Meads in Buckinghamshire. We set for- 
 ward on the 21st of 9th Month, 1803." 
 
 . — - c 5 
 
5$ SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 After visiting the meetings generally in that 
 county, they reached Leighton, where the 
 quarterly meeting was to be held on the 3d of 
 the 10th Month. She says : " We were at the 
 select meeting on the 4th, the quarterly meet- 
 ing on the 5th, and week-day meeting on the 
 6th, all of which were favored seasons, strength 
 being felt to labour honestly among them. It 
 was, I believe, a time of Divine instruction to 
 many minds. After all this, we could not 
 peacefully leave Leighton without sitting in 
 their families, which we did, being eleven in 
 number, and reached Kitchen on the evening 
 of the 8th, with the precious reward of quietude 
 and peace. I staid a few days with my be- 
 loved friend and companion, and then pro- 
 ceeded to Uxbridge, expecting to meet my 
 former companion ; but she being prevented 
 coming quite so soon as expected, I went to- 
 Staines, accompanied by our valued friend 
 John Hull. We were at their meeting on first 
 day, after which I could not feel easy without 
 proposing a visit to the families. This was a 
 bitter cup. We got through thirty-four sit- 
 tings, and reached Uxbridge on fourth day 
 evening:. 
 
ANN DYMOND. 59 
 
 K The foregoing being left shorty I am inclined 
 to add that I was joined by my beloved compa- 
 nion, P. H. Gurney ; and we were strength- 
 ened to pursue our prospect in sitting with 
 friends in their meetings in London and Mid- 
 dlesex, had also many religious opportunities 
 in families, as truth opened the way. 
 
 "We spent nearly three months in this part of 
 the vineyard, during which, many and de;*p 
 were the conflicts of my soul. T may say my 
 spirit was clothed with sadness; and oftentimes 
 I was as with my mouth in the dust : the cause 
 I desire to leave, 
 
 "About the latter part of the 1st Month, 1804, 
 my beloved companion, feeling her mind clear 
 of the present engagement, was free to leave 
 me in London, and proceed homewards. This, 
 though a trial to me, being poor and stripped, 
 and not being permitted to see my way out of 
 the city, was in the feeling of sweet unity ; and 
 I was thankful that her good Master saw meet 
 to set her at liberty to return home. After she 
 left me, I attended some few meetings with 
 friends, to my own satisfaction. One in South- 
 wark, which was very large, proved a tiins 
 
60 $01LE ACCOUNT 0£ 
 
 ef Divine favor and peaceful relief to my mind, 
 I was then clear to turn my face homewards, 
 which I did, taking meetings in my way, and 
 got to our monthly meeting at Spiceland, where 
 I was enabled to give up my certificate with the 
 humble acknowledgment that the Lord had 
 feeen with me, and helped me with a little help." 
 
 The following is an extract from a letter, 
 written during the engagement which has just 
 been briefly narrated : 
 
 " As I have felt my mind, during the whole 
 of this day, more than usually attracted towards 
 my friends aud relations at home, and most 
 sweetly so towards thee, I felt as if it would 
 be most comfortable just to say so in this way, 
 notwithstanding I have lately written home - y 
 and I hope, although it may convey little more 
 than the fresh flowing of the most endeared 
 love, from thy absent daughter, it will not be 
 altogether unacceptable. The sweet feelings 
 which have accompanied my mind this day, and 
 the near and dear attractions in spirit towards 
 my beloved connexions, have proved truly en- 
 couraging and strengthening to me, having com- 
 fortably believed that though far separated as to 
 
ANN DYMOND, 61 
 
 the outward, we are mercifully preserved near 
 to one another in that which neither time nor 
 distance can diminish 5 and an humble hope has 
 been raised in my heart, that the Divine power 
 which hath hitherto helped, will continue to 
 help and preserve us in our future stoppings ; 
 and also that Thou, my precious parent ! mayst 
 be strengthened to draw near unto the fountain 
 of light and life, and breathe for me, that no- 
 thing may be permitted to draw aside my atten* 
 tion from the only sure guide*" 
 
SECTION vr. 
 
 jPuhlk Meetings in Devon and Cornwall— Visit to the SciUtf- 
 1 stands — The Lizard, 
 
 I remained at and about home until the 9th 
 Month following', 180 4, when I was again united 
 by my aforesaid companion, P. H. Gurney; 
 and we ertered on the arduous service of hold- 
 ing meetings with those of other societies in 
 many places in Devonshire and Cornwall; 
 many of them in towns and villages, where 
 none had ever been held before. Daring the 
 course of this engagement, we had about 120 
 meetings, besides sittings in friends' families in 
 many places. We also ventured across the 
 deep to see the inhabitants of the Scilly Islands. 
 Of this journey I can say little more than that 
 our gracious Helper, who had been with us in 
 former seasons of trial and conflict, was pleased 
 to be with us in this; bringing us through many 
 exercises and various perils, both by sea and 
 land, and enabling us, at the close thereof, to 
 acknowledge that He is good, and worthy to 
 be worshipped, honoured, and obeyed; and thafc 
 by the whole house of Israel, 
 
ANN BYMOND. 63 
 
 We were favored to return from this arduous 
 and exercising engagement in tiie5th Mo. 1805. 
 
 The following account of a meeting they had 
 at Plymouth, is taken from one of her letters : 
 
 Plymouth, 1805. It is now two weeks since 
 I closed my last letter. The following day we 
 had a very large public meeting here, which I 
 think you have been informed of. The preced- 
 ing evening we had acquainted some friends 
 with our prospect of sitting in the families^ 
 That night and the following morning, my mind 
 was much exercised on account of the inhabit- 
 ants of this place ; and I felt as though it would 
 be in vain for me to enter on a visit to the fa- 
 milies, before I had submitted to my companion 
 the proposal of a meeting on that first day even- 
 ing. However, I wished to try it to the last, 
 and we went to meeting in the morning, when I 
 found the matter fix so closely on my mind, 
 that it was proposed to friends, and they rea- 
 dily complied with it : but how was I affected 
 when, in the evening, we came near the meet- 
 ing-house, to find the people returning in great 
 numbers ! The difficulty of getting in was very 
 
6i SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 great, and the noise in the house for some time- 
 quite dismaying. After a while a friend stood 
 up, and desired the people to endeavour to be 
 a little quiet. 
 
 The confusion abated for a short time, but 
 soon increased again. Here was a close trial 
 of my faith ; and a deep search and inquiry 
 took place, on what ground I had moved. The 
 effect of this was peaceful and strengthening; 
 being favored to believe it was under a feeling 
 of that which would bear up and carry through. 
 A precious covering, which came over the meet- 
 ing, was succeded by two living testimonies ; and 
 after some time of silence, I was strengthened 
 also in gospel labour, and helped through to 
 my own comfortable relief. The meeting 
 ended well. 
 
 On second day we entered on the visit to 
 friends' families ; and the retrospect of the pre- 
 ceding day and evening, afforded strength and 
 encouragement to my mind. 
 
 [Of the visit to the Scilly Islands, the follow- 
 ing account is extracted from her letters :] 
 
 Hugh Town, on the principal of the Scilly; 
 Islands, called Saint Mary's, 2d Month, lAth* 
 
ANN DYMOHBt 63 
 
 We left Falmouth on first day morning, the 
 10th, and came to Redruth in time for their 
 meeting, which we attended ; and several of 
 other societies came in. It was a season of no 
 small exercise to our minds ; we laboured a lit- 
 tle with them in the ability we were favored 
 with, and found peace. After meeting we set 
 off directly for Marazion, which we reached 
 about six o'clock. 
 
 A vessel was engaged for our passage to the 
 Scilly Islands, and on third day, we went to- 
 wards the water in order to embark ; but here 
 we met with a discouragement, or rather trial 
 of faith. The postmaster, who saw us going 
 by, informed us that several vessels had just 
 been taken by a French privateer, and he thought 
 it would be very imprudent for us to go, as we 
 should be just in their way. We found it ne- 
 cessary to look to that Guide who never de- 
 ceives, if properly sought unto, in order to feel 
 after what we ought to do. The fears are not 
 to be set forth that rushed into my mind, as it 
 were, in an instant ; for though they had been 
 felt and weighed before, they were now again 
 called forth with redoubled weight. Well, we 
 aat down in this kind man's house a few mi- 
 
66 SOME ACCOUNT OP 
 
 nutes, where we heard a variety of sentiments; 
 but after a little while, we felt disposed to walk 
 to the water ; and when there, we found the 
 Captain was for sailing immediately. He was 
 encouraged by a sloop of war being just under 
 weigh, going after the Frenchman, thinking we 
 had good convoy in that. This, however, was 
 no encouragement to us, but the contrary. Af- 
 ter again weighing the matter, the scale pre^ 
 ponderated rather for going. We felt pretty 
 quiet in the conclusion, and ventured on board. 
 We soon became extremely sick : the suffering 
 was indescribable, such as I never before expe- 
 rienced ; indeed I believe I had a pretty tho- 
 rough sample of sea sickness. You cannot 
 conceive the situation of mind at this juncture. 
 What could I have done had I not known on 
 what to trust, and where to look for stay and 
 support to my poor mind ? But through unut- 
 terable mercy, a little confidence in best help 
 was near through all, and I felt a renewal of 
 faith and hope, that we should get on in safety. 
 
 We met with a hearty reception from the 
 people here, who are Methodists. 
 
 On cur landing, I believe we both felt ou? 
 minds covered with thankfulness j so much so, 
 
ANN DYMON0. 67 
 
 as to produce tears of joy; and although our 
 bodily feelings continued trying, yet we found 
 that pe"ace to flow which compensated for all 
 that had been passed through The people of 
 the house very kindly let my dear P. H. Gurney 
 and me lay down on their beds, till which we 
 continued very unwell. In the evening we had 
 a religious opportunity, in which I thought we 
 were owned by the presence of our great Master, 
 
 Yesterday morning we went to the island 
 called St. Agnes, and had a favored meeting 
 with some of the inhabitants ; we returned in 
 the evening, and felt renewedly thankful. This 
 morning we concluded to go to Martin's island. 
 We have with us our Captain, with whom we 
 came from Penzance, and who is an agreeable 
 intelligent man, and two others, who are steady 
 men ; and we think it an- additional favor to 
 have such attendants. We had a hard trying 
 meeting, though we laboured a little among* 
 them as ability was afforded, and we do not 
 feel condemnation this evening. 
 
 16f/i. The time which has elapsed since I 
 wrote to you last, has been fraught with scenes 
 deeply interesting to my mind j but these must,. 
 
68 8CME ACCOUNT «F 
 
 I believe, be left and passed over in silence; 
 Yet will they not be the less remembered, be- 
 ing, some of them, deeply and lastingly in- 
 scribed in legible characters on my heart. You 
 have felt, I believe, with me, and this belief 
 lias been a true cordial and strength to my 
 mind, in seasons of sore conflict. 
 
 21 st. Since writing the foregoing, we have 
 been on the islands called Tresco and Bryer r 
 we reached the latter first, and got to a meeting 
 with the people about one o'clock. We left them 
 directly after the meeting, and proceeded to 
 Tresco^ and had a meeting there that evening, 
 which, though exercising, was more relieving 
 to our minds. 
 
 The wind was very rough, so that it was 
 quite unsafe for us to go on the water. We 
 therefore remained that night, and found tole- 
 rable accommodations. The following day still 
 proved very rough, and we found our minds* 
 drawn to see the people, again that evening, 
 This was a remarkably favored time ; and we 
 believe it was well for us we could not go be- 
 fore. In the night the weather altered ; and 
 early in the morning we took boat and returned 
 very peaceful in our minds - and I humbly hope 
 
ANN BYMON». 69 
 
 ihankful to Him whose preserving power had 
 been felt to be near, in the time of need. 
 
 That evening we had a large meeting here, 
 which I thought was signally owned by the 
 Great Master of assemblies. Silence was my 
 lot ; but my dear companion was helped to mi- 
 nister to the people. 
 
 On fourth day, which was the day appointed 
 for a general fast, we had a meeting at a village 
 called Holy Vale, about one o'clock, and ano- 
 ther in this place in the evening ; both of these 
 were, I believe, seasons of favor, though in 
 general we have found it trying work to mini- 
 ster to the people on these islands. I have ne- 
 ver been more sensible of the necessity of keep- 
 ing, or being kept, in a state of single depend- 
 ence on the only sure Director and Preserver of 
 His people. The desire of our hearts hath 
 been, that the precious cause which we are en- 
 gaged to espouse, may not suffer through us ; 
 and a comfortable hope attends us, that we 
 have been preserved as heretofore. This is a 
 mercy indeed. 
 
 Seventh day we went to Sampson's, and had 
 ft tossing voyage, but very safe. Soon after 
 
Tfl SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 our landing", we collected the inhabitants, and 
 sat down in one of their miserable dwellings, 
 and had a good meeting with them. We were 
 glad we went there ; tooit our boat again di- 
 rectly, and had a very pleasant voyage back. 
 
 Yesterday morning we sat down together ; 
 and we had not sat long before a sober woman 
 came in and sat with us. It was a precious 
 season to some of our minds: a little matter 
 was communicated, and I trust our strength 
 was, in some degree, renewed. 
 
 In the afternoon, about three, we had ano- 
 ther large meeting with the people here, where 
 we first landed, which was, through favor, a 
 solid open time, and seemed more fully reliev- 
 ing to our minds. 
 
 From Penzance, where they landed on their re- 
 turn, they went to Marazion,Helston, Falmouth, 
 Truro, Austle, Liskeard, and Germain s. At 
 the latter place they found themselves under 
 the. necessity of going back to hold some meet- 
 tings on the Lizard, and other parts in the west 
 of Cornwall. In the course of this engage- 
 ment^ the following was written ; 
 
ANN DYMONB. 71 
 
 Coverach on the Lizard, ith Month, Qth, 
 1805. — Since I wrote last, we have been at 
 Liskeard. We reached it the 27th. Attended 
 their week-day meeting, the 28th, and had se- 
 veral religious opportunities with those who at? 
 tend our meetings, but are not members, to our 
 relief and satisfaction. The following day we 
 had a large public meeting there. This was to 
 me an exercising meeting : all the public labour 
 of it devolved upon .me. It was very hard la- 
 bour indeed, and seemed to yield but little, if 
 any relief; yet I have since been willing to 
 hope, that the tried feelings of my mind were 
 not occasioned by any missteppings of mine, but 
 from my being introduced into sympathy with 
 the states of the people ; for I do not feel con- 
 demnation in the retrospect. 
 
 We had intended to leave Liskeard the next 
 morning ; but when the morning came, we felt 
 uneasy to proceed ; and after considering it 
 awhile, we concluded to give it up for that day, 
 and stay over the morning meeting, which we did ; 
 and I believe this step tended to the comfort and 
 relief of my dear companion. We left Liskeard, 
 and got to Austle, and were at their monthly 
 meeting on second day. Through mercy a lit- 
 tle strength was vouchsafed to advocate the pre- 
 
72 SOME AC COD NT OP 
 
 clous cause, and a sweet evidence of peace was 
 felt, which, I may confess, was particularly 
 helpful and strengthening to my mind. 
 
 The following day we reached Falmouth. 
 Their select meeting was that evening; it was 
 an instructive season. The quarterly meeting 
 the next day was pretty large : there are many 
 well exercised minds in this county : I wish the 
 number may increase. The sittings of the meet- 
 ings held long. In that for worship best help 
 was graciously near, strengthening to deliver 
 gospel truths, in the authority thereof, and in 
 the demonstration of the spirit. The meeting 
 was, indeed, a favored one, particularly so to 
 many minds. 
 
 After alluding to some other meetings which 
 they held in that district, where no friends re- 
 side, she says : " Thus are we led on from day 
 to day, and I believe are afresh instructed." 
 
 Oh ! that all these dispensations of unerr- 
 ing wisdom may produce the end designed. 
 And then it matters not what our sufferings or 
 exercises are. I may acknowledge that my 
 mind has been pretty peaceful, sin^e we came 
 to the Lizard. 
 
SECTION VIT. 
 
 Public Meetings in the Counties of Somerset, Dorset, and 
 Hants, in 1806 — The state of her mind at different 
 times, to the end of the year, 1809. 
 
 She remained at home until the 4th Month, 
 1806, when she was joined by her former com- 
 panion in holding public meetings in the coun- 
 ties of Somerset, Dorset, and Hants. Respect- 
 ing this journey, very slight memorandums ap- 
 pear among her papers. She was prevented, 
 by indisposition, from returning to Exeter im- 
 mediately on its completion, and she trans- 
 mitted her certificate to the monthly meeting by 
 letter ; of which the following is the concluding 
 paragraph : 
 
 " I have been enabled to accomplish what 
 appeared, in the openings of truth, to be re- 
 quired at my hands ; and although I have to 
 acknowledge that during my late arduous en- 
 gagement, much weakness and poverty of spi- 
 rit have been my experience. Yet I must, with 
 humble gratitude confess, that best help and 
 strength have never failed in time of need. la 
 
74 SOME ACCOUNT Of 
 
 the fresh remembrance of the preservation which 
 hath been extended to me both in heights and 
 in depths, is my soul bowed at this time, before 
 the Father and Fountain of all our sure mercies." 
 
 IGih Mo. 15th. Feeling my mind this even- 
 ing sweetly covered with the influences of hea- 
 venly good, I am induced to record it here, in 
 humble acknowledgment of the mercy and favor 
 of a gracious God, who hath been pleased thus 
 once more to lift up the light of His counte- 
 nance, after a season of poverty, attended with 
 tossings, known to none but the Searcher of 
 hearts. And oh ! what a consolation hath it 
 been to my mind, to be permitted to believe 
 that his Holy arm is still underneath, to sup- 
 port those who look singly unto Him, and who 
 trust in Him ! Oh, thou preserver of men 1 
 who hast been pleased to make bare thy arm for 
 my help, in many seasons that are passed ; who 
 hast covered my head in many battles, be Thou 
 pleased to extend thy Divine help still, to thy 
 poor unworthy handmaid. 
 
 Thou only knowest the conflicts of my soul ; 
 and Thou only canst preserve me from falling 
 
ANN DYTVIOND. 7?> 
 
 ifito temptation. Strengthen me, 1 beseech 
 Thee, to look unto Thee, that so I may by thy 
 power, be enabled faithfully to keep the word cf 
 thy patience, and humbly bow in acquiescence 
 to thy Divine will. 
 
 7th Mo., 2\st, 1807. I have not apprehended 
 myself called to any public religious service 
 since last year, yet I hope my gracious Master, 
 who has seen meet in times past, to make use 
 of me, hath not cast me off from his presence ; 
 but is, in abundant mercy, extending his pre- 
 serving Arm of power, for my support and 
 safety, amidst the various temptations with 
 which 1 am assailed. 
 
 7 th Month, 25th. I feel renewedly bowed ia 
 reverence before the Almighty ; and in quiet- 
 ness and calmness of mind do humbly beg, that 
 He would be pleased to make me, more and 
 more, what he would have me to be. 
 
 $ th Mont h,23d. Tried and tossed as with 
 tempests. Discouragements abound as on every 
 hand ; but oh ! the matchless mercy of Infinite 
 Wisdom and Goodness, who hath been pleased 
 once more to open a door of hope, in the secret 
 
 j) 2 
 
Td SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 of my soul, and hath raised a degree of thank- 
 fulness in me. Wonderful indeed are his works ! 
 and his ways past finding out. May his deal- 
 ings with me seal lasting instruction ! It is 
 clear to the view of my mind, that these his 
 dealings with me, are designed to work for my 
 everlasting good ; and what 1 most earnestly 
 crave is, that they may be so submitted to, as 
 that the Divine will maybe done. Oh ! how k 
 my soul melted within me, under the fresh feel- 
 ing of ancient goodness, and the renewed re- 
 membrance of seasons that are passed ; when, 
 through the help and strength of Divine power, 
 I was called to encourage those who had been 
 tried and beset, to put their trust in the Lord, 
 who delivereth such ! 
 
 O Lord ! strengthen me, I beseech thee, once 
 more to covenant with Thee, to be and to do 
 what thou shalt see meet ; only be Thou with 
 me and preserve me in the way that I go. 
 Strengthen me, T beseech Thee, to stand firm 
 for that precious cause upon earth, which thou, 
 O Lord ! knowest I love above all other consi- 
 derations. Bind me, gracious Father, more 
 and more firmly to thy law, and to thy testimony. 
 
ANN DYMONI). 77 
 
 ^r 7 } Month, %ith. Awoke low and distressed; 
 h >d for help to seek after patience; went to 
 meeting in a pretty good disposition, but found 
 it hard work to keep watchful. My mind was 
 inclined to ramble ; but the warfare was so far 
 maintained, as to produce a little quiet feeling 
 towards the close ; and I returned peaceful. I 
 have this evening been favored to feel humbled. 
 Preserve me, O Lord ! I pray Thee, and ena- 
 ble me to guard well my thoughts, remember- 
 ing that they* are known by. Thee. 
 
 25£/i. Still low and tried. I was not so 
 watchful as I ought to have been ; in the fore 
 part of the day — felt fretful ; struggled hard 
 against this enemy, and was favored to gain 
 some victory. I have since felt a little refreshed 
 by the renewal of heavenly good. Oh ! the 
 watch and the warfare. I long for them to b« 
 more vigilantly maintained. 
 
 26f h. Very low, but pretty quiet ; which is a 
 favor. Enabled to beg for preservation, and in 
 some degree, I hope, to strive against the in- 
 roads Of the enemy ; but I feel a want of strength 
 to fight successfully. Oh! may- I be favored 
 with more and more of that strength in which 
 -self takes no part. n 3 
 
$8 SOME ACCOUNT Of 
 
 9th Month, 27th. In the morning, very low 
 and distressed. I was favored to feel after a 
 desire for more stillness, and resignation to all 
 with which my good Master may yet see meet 
 to try me ; but hard was the struggle to get 
 quiet at meeting. How does the enemy endea- 
 vour to frustrate the designs of the Almighty ! 
 Oh ! saith my soul, may he be defeated ! But 
 this cannot be in our own time and strength - r 
 therefore, gracious Father! I humbly beg of 
 Thee, be pleased to grant patience to wait thy 
 own time. 
 
 20f/i. The enemy still suffered to disquiet my 
 mind ; so that all stay seems gone, and the ves-^ 
 sel left to drift — no power to beg. 
 
 lQth Month, 1st. The waves had almost 
 overwhelmed ; but in adorable mercy, I trust 
 the vessel is not wrecked. I have been favored 
 •with a little stillness to-day ; though but very 
 little strength or ability to pray. A right qua- 
 lification for prayer is not to be attained, but 
 through very deep inward dwelling; and this I 
 bow feel a renewed desire to seek after, flie 
 spirit is willing, but the flesh is w-eajs^ 
 
ANN DYMONIfc 79 
 
 10th Month, 5th, Through unmerited mercy 
 I have been favored to witness something of a 
 calm to the raging waves ; and my mind hath 
 been sweetly comforted in the renewed belief 
 that the everlasting Arm is underneath to pre- 
 serve me. Oh, my soul, seek Thou unto thy 
 God ! Seek Him without ceasing, until all v\ithin 
 thee is bowed before Him, and thou art brought 
 to acquiesce in his most Holy will. Gracious 
 Father ! strengthen me, I pray Thee, to watch 
 and pray, that I may, through thy power, be 
 enabled to withstand the enemy of my soul's 
 peace, in all his appearances ! I am thankful, 
 this evening, to feel a little of the renewings of 
 heavenly good, and a restoration of quietness. 
 May this thankfulness continue ! But this is 
 also the gift of God, and must be waited for, 
 
 10th 31o. §th. Began the day with prayer 
 for preservation ; and have been sweetly favored 
 as with a little Holy help, during most part of 
 it ; yet have found something of the wrong 
 thing to rise and manifest itself in a little pee- 
 vishness. Oh ! when will all these evil dispo- 
 sitions be subdued ! I have through all, abun- 
 dant cause of thankfulness, in that my great 
 Master is graciously pleased, at seasons, to 
 
80 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 make himself known, as by the breaking of 
 bread. 
 
 7th. In the morning low, but pretty peace- 
 ful ; I have felt mostly so during this day, though 
 I fear the watch has not been so faithfully kept, 
 as it should have been ; yet I do not find at the 
 close much condemnation. 
 
 Sth. My poor mind not comfortable; very lit- 
 tle quiet; but hope I was in a good measure 
 preserved from doing hurt to others. 
 
 10th Month, 9th. Very low in the morning. 
 In the course of the day, I felt my spirits re- 
 vive a little, and ability to beg for help. I felt 
 refreshed in the evening, by the renewed ex* 
 tension of Heavenly influence, under which I 
 was once more strengthened to put up a petition 
 for preservation. 
 
 10th. Began this day pretty quiet and com- 
 fortable in mind ; favored to see the great ne- 
 cessity of a constant watch. What a fa\or to 
 have our eye opened so as to be enabled to dis- 
 tinguish right from wrong ! O Lord ! be pleased 
 to grant a disposition to bow to Thy will : pre- 
 serve me on every hand, I pray Thee ! 
 
ANN DYMONBr 81' 
 
 llih. In meeting 1 , was somewhat refreshed, 
 and felt a little ability to draw near to the pure 
 Fountain. I was prevented from going to meet- 
 ing in trie aternoon, by indisposition, and felt 
 a little strength to pray in my solitude ; but for 
 all this, missed the matter in the evening, through 
 un watchfulness in conversation; for which suf* 
 fering ensued. Oh ! when will this poor mind 
 be brought into proper subjection ! What disci- 
 pline it requires I May 1 be more humbled ! 
 
 12th. Not so stayed as I ought to have bean- 
 very poor and weak all day ; yet hope I was in 
 a good measure preserved from doing harm* 
 
 10th Month. 13th. Very poor in mind and 
 low in spirits, without feeling much sensible 
 comfort or support ; though this evening I was 
 a little humbled, and begged for strength to 
 pray*. May the fear of the Lord, which is said 
 to be the beginning of wisdom, be placed more 
 and more before nay eyes I 
 
 15th. Poor but peaceful ; went to meeting in 
 a comfortable state of mind, and was favored 
 with some ability to wait upon God. I long to 
 be clothed more and more with the true Chris-- 
 lian spirit :* 9 
 
B2 S'OME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 \StJi. Hard struggle at meeting, and scarcely 
 obtained what my soul longed for, by the time 
 the meeting broke up. In the afternoon, poor 
 and dry ; but was sweetly favored in the even- 
 ing, and felt comfortable on going to rest. 
 
 19th. Awoke low and discouraged, which has- 
 continued through most of the day ; with scarcely 
 any ability to fight. I fear the enemy has been 
 suffered, in some degree, to prevail. I long to 
 know an o\ercoming; but I must labour after 
 true patience and resignation. 
 
 20th, In adorable mercy I have been favored 
 to feel a renewed belief, that I am not quite for- 
 saken. May I be diligeut»in labouring after 
 quiet acquiescence with the Divine will, be that 
 what it may. I hope I have endeavoured to 
 keep on the watch tower. Oh, gracious Fa- 
 ther ! bow my mind, that I may be united more 
 and more closely to Thee, and to Thy law 
 written on the heart. 
 
 10th Month, 26f&. This evening gracious 
 Help hath been witnessed, for which I desire to 
 bow in thankfulness, and to implore a continu- 
 ance of tlus sustaining help ; so that the holy 
 
ANN DYMOND. 83 
 
 fear of God may be continually placed as before 
 my eyes, and preservation from every evil may 
 be witnessed. 
 
 30th. My heart is renewedly humbled under 
 a sense of the continued mercy and overshadow- 
 ing wing of Ancient goodness. Many and deep 
 are the provings of my mind; and strong is my 
 desire that I may be preserved from falling a 
 victim to the unwearied attacks of my soul's 
 enemy. I feel the danger I am in. Gracious 
 Father ! be pleased, I beseech Thee, to keep 
 open that eye in me, which can discern the 
 enemy in all his appearances ; and enable me, 
 1 pray thee, to wait upon Thee, that so my 
 strength may be renewed in Thee. 
 
 llth Month, 26th. Very low and empty; 
 scarcely any feeling of good, except a desire to 
 continue this little impartial record ; and a re- 
 newal of help to beg for preservation and best 
 direction, in all my future steppings ; but oh! J, 
 "want to feel more stayed on the Divine Arm. 
 
 llth Month, 28th. A little renewal of hope, 
 'that patience will be mercifully granted, to ena« 
 Me me to wait- the Lord's time, for the fmk 
 
84 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 extendings of His love and life giving presence; 
 which is more than any outward enjoyments. 
 May I be thankful for the many mercies which* 
 I am still favored with ! Oh, my soul, mayst 
 thou be more vigilant in labour after watch*- 
 fulness ! 
 
 80th. Watchfulness still wanting ; very low 
 and poor, yet I hope some degree of thankful- 
 ness has been felt for the mereies of God ; and 
 a feeble desire raised, that He will be pleased 
 to sanctify all the afflictive dispensations which 
 are permitted to attend me ; and that His m\\ y 
 not my own, may be done. 
 
 12th Month, 1st. My mind more calm than 
 at some times, and felt a precious degree of 
 sweet resignation to the Divine will ; a great 
 favor indeed ! Gracious Father ! humble me 
 more and more I pray Thee, under thy own 
 mightv power, bringing me into a nearer com- 
 munion with thyself through the immediate 
 workings of the spirit of the Son of thy love; 
 that so all wrong things may be done away, and 
 my heart may be prepared to receive the im~ 
 pressioa of holiness unto Thee, 
 
ANN D¥MONB. 85 
 
 12th Month, 2d: I hope my mind has been, in 
 a pretty good degree, preserved in watchfulness 
 this day; and a feeble desire has been raised to 
 cast my care upon Him, and commit my cause 
 fnto His holy hand, who only knoweth the se- 
 crets of all hearts ; and oh ! that He may be 
 pleased thoroughly to search mine, enabling me 
 in his own Divine will, to see how things are 
 between me and my God. 
 
 1st Month, 1st, 1808. Preserve me, OLordt 
 amidst all the trials which Thou mayst see meet 
 to prove me with ; and do Thou strengthen me, 
 1 beseech Thee, without whom I can do no- 
 thing, to bear with resignation, whatever ad- 
 versity Thou art pleased to dispense; that so ail 
 these things may be sanctified to my soul, and 
 thy greatName may be glorified for ever thereby, 
 
 19th. Thankful in feeling, that all the hum- 
 Mings with which I am favored, are not of my- 
 self, or at my command, but the gift of our 
 Heavenly Father, who knows what we are, 
 and what is best for us. 
 
 10th Month. I have not written any thing in 
 this book for a long time : ability for it has noi 
 
86 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 Been much felt, although I have wished many 
 times to commit a little to writing 1 , of some of 
 the Lord's dealings with me since I last wrote. 
 Many and great have heen the exercises I have 
 passed through, some of them unknown to any 
 mortal ; and great has been the mercy and for- 
 bearance of Him who seeth in secret, and who^ 
 knoweth the heart. I can truly say 1 have been 
 favored to see His wonders in the deeps ; and 
 in adorable mercy, have known Him to be in- 
 the whirlwind and the storm ; hut much have I 
 had to lament over myself, that the true watch- 
 has not been so vigiiantly kept as it should have 
 been. I now feel a renewed desire raised, that 
 I may be strengthened to keep it faithfully for 
 the time to come. 
 
 6th Month, 20th, 1809. I feel a little inclined; 
 in this way, as I have heretofore been enabled 
 to do, to commemorate the goodness of ou? 
 Heavenly Father, in giving me to witness of 
 his Divine presence : and, in turning my atten- 
 tion to a retrospect of my little journey, I have 
 been led feelingly to bless his Holy Name. 
 
 The journey alluded to was the attendance of 
 the yearly meeting, and a little yisit at ftf* 
 
AtfN DYMONB. 87- • 
 
 tu-idge and at Bristol in my way home, the re- 
 membrance of which is still pleasant to me. 
 
 8th Month. I have still to lament oven my- 
 self, in that the watch is not faithfully kept; and 
 hereby my mind has suffered great loss. Desires 
 are often raised in my heart, for more vigilance 
 in this respect ■; but alas ! weakness doth so far 
 prevail, that the enemy is suffered to gain too 
 much entrance. 
 
 $thMonth,20th. Through unutterable mere y 9 
 I felt this morning a little renewal of strength, 
 to labour after ability to worship in spirit and m 
 truth ; and although the struggle, for a consi- 
 derable time was hard, yet, towards the latter 
 part of the meeting, I was permitted to draw 
 Hear to the Fountain of life, and to receive a 
 fresh supply of spiritual strength. And I had 
 publicly to advocate the cause of truth, which 
 produced sweet peace ef mind. In the evening, 
 I fear the watch was not maintained, in that 
 faithfulness which would have been productive 
 of precious fruits. May I be diligent in this 
 most necessary employment 1 My mind is often 
 humbled under a consideration of the awfulness 
 of the work, to which, at times, I believe my- 
 
88 SOME -ACCOUNT OF 
 
 self called — the work of the ministry. It is aw- 
 ful, deeply awful; and I am led at times to 
 crave for an increase of that covering", which 
 characterizes a true gospel minister, viz. : Hu- 
 mility and meekness. 
 
 9th Month, Wth. Confined to the house by 
 an accident. I feel the loss of the privilege of 
 assembling with my friends, for the purpose of 
 performing acceptable worship. I was favored 
 with a little quiet feeling in the evening. May. 
 I be sufficiently thankful for this and every, 
 other favor and mercy. 
 
SECTION VIII. 
 
 Resumption of her Diary in 1811— Her own Monthly and 
 Quarterly Meetings — Yearly Meeting-— Public Meetings 
 in and near Exeter. 
 
 5th Month, 1811. I have kept no account 
 since the foregoing, and have many times la- 
 mented this neglect ; as I have felt that it has 
 been a loss to my own mind. I am frequently 
 strengthened in the opinion that it is profitable 
 to keep occasional memorandums : it helps, in 
 some degree, to diligence and watchfulness, 
 Many are th* seasons in which I have mourned 
 over myself, for neglecting it ; and although 
 many and deep have been the conflicts and pro- 
 bations of my mind, since 1 wrote last in this 
 book; yet there have been seasons, (to the glory 
 of the Great Master be it recorded,) in which I 
 have had, in a feeling of deep humility, to com- 
 memorate unfailing mercy. 
 
 5th Month, %&th. Begging for preservation. 
 
 Sth Month. I have for the last few mtmths 
 felt so poor and lifeless, that I have at times been 
 
ftO tGMl ACCOUNT CF 
 
 afraid that a totally insensible state wa& comings 
 over me ; and under these impressions I could 
 not write : but, through Divine goodness, my 
 mind has, within a very short time, been fa- 
 vored to witness a revival of hope, that I am 
 not utterly forsaken and cast off. And oh I that 
 I may continue in a watchful dependant state,, 
 waiting at the feet of Jesus. 
 
 12th Month, 3d. I have this morning felt my 
 mind a little comforted, in witnessing the Di- 
 vine presence near to help me, and to strengthen 
 my desire for preservation. 
 
 4th. Felt the preserving Arm of Divine power 
 near. Oh ! that I may cleave to it. 
 
 5th. Very poor and empty, or* sitting down? 
 in our little meeting this morning; yet, through 
 favor, after a considerable struggle, I was per- 
 mitted to feel access to the throne of mercy, and 
 my faith was renewed in the Arm of Divine 
 power ; so that I was enabled once more to beg 
 for strength, to make a total surrender of myself 
 to the Divide disposal; in which 1 felt peaceful 
 the remaining part of the day. 
 
 11th. Very poor and empty, and scarcely 
 feeling strength even to beg for preservation* 
 
ANN imio !«»-•> ©I 
 
 X6*r/i. Was permitted to draw Hear to Divine 
 help, in our litile meeting of Ministers and El- 
 ders this evening. We received a lively com* 
 munication from an absent member. 
 
 23c£. Had a pretty agreeable journey to Kings- 
 bridge ; and that evening attended the monthly 
 meeting for Ministers and Elders, for the West 
 division. It was, I believe, a favored season, 
 though it was my lot to sit in deep inward 
 poverty. 
 
 2-lth. Attended their monthly meeting— great 
 poverty was still my portion, though others, I 
 believe, were sweetly refreshed, through the eX- 
 tendings of Divine help. In the evening was* 
 the quarterly meeting for Ministers and Elders, 
 which I thought was signally owned by the 
 overshadowing of Divine goodness. 
 
 25ih. Was our quarterly meeting at large, 
 which was owned by the great Shepherd of 
 Israel, though I felt much inward poverty and 
 strippedness for a considerable time, when a 
 little opening for religious service presented ; 
 and, in great weakness, I ventured on my feet, 
 with scare eLy any thing before me ; but as my 
 
£2 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 mind was kept low and dependant, the- spring 
 of life arose, and T was enabled to bear testi- 
 mony,, to- the efficacy and sufficiency of Divine 
 power, to my own^ admiration and sweet peace. 
 In the evening was a large public meeting at 
 the request of our dear friend, S. Abbott, which 
 appeared satisfactory. 
 
 26/7i. Returned home with a quiet and peace- 
 ful mind. 
 
 29th. My mind reduced low; and in a re- 
 newed feeling of the great need I have for best 
 help, I was glad to feel a desire to wait at the 
 feet of Jesus, without the least prospect of ser- 
 vice in the meeting ; but after waiting some time, 
 I believed it right to express a little matter be- 
 fore me, and felt peace, 
 
 12f h Month, 30th. This morning opens with 
 a fresh feeling of dependanee. Oh ! that this 
 may be kept near to -in all my movements! for 
 in this alone is safety. 
 
 Slst. My mind quiet in the fore part of this 
 day ; but I sustained loss in the evening through 
 uo watchfulness in conversation. How necessary 
 
AfcN DYMONB. S3 
 
 iiisjthat a constant guard be kept ! Thus the pre- 
 sent year does not close with desired brightness 
 
 1st Month, 1st, 1812. Still low, and feel a 
 want of that true peace, which is so much to be 
 desired. 
 
 13th. Since writing the above, I have passed 
 the time variously — quite enough, and sometimes 
 I fear too much, involved in the concerns of 
 this life ; yet my mind is, at seasons, favored 
 to rise above these things, and to press after 
 enduring substance — a blessing which I desire 
 to prize beyond all earthly enjoyments. 
 
 -14r7». This morning opened peacefully, and 
 with a desire that watchfulness might be main- 
 tained through the day ; which has been, through 
 favor, in a good degree, the ease. 
 
 loth. My mind poor, but quiet. 
 
 *Gth Month, 18/7*, 1812. I am such a poor, 
 weak creature, that I believe a fear which is 
 very unprofitable, is suffered too often to pre- 
 vail, to the hindrance of the good work, divers 
 ways. My heart lias craved for more dedica- 
 
94 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 tion and willingness to be any thing or nothing 
 for the sake of the precious cause. 
 
 I returned last 6th day, after an absence of 
 rather more than a month, in which time I at- 
 tended the yearly meeting; on the whole, much 
 to my satisfaction, though my allotted portion 
 of exercise was of the mortifying kind. These 
 humiliating dispensations, when rightly re- 
 ceived, tend to the refinement of the creature; 
 and earnestly have I coveted that this may be 
 the case. I felt relieved in paying a visit to t l ve 
 men friends, and in some few other public 
 engagements. 
 
 After the yearly meeting I went to Hitchin 
 to see my endeared friend, E. J. Wheeler, and 
 her children. My stay with them was shorty 
 but I felt a precious revival of that love and 
 fellowship, which is from a source beyond na- 
 ture ; and it proved strengthening to my mind, 
 From thence 1 went to Uxbridge, and spent a 
 few days pleasantly there, with my relations 
 and friends. 
 
 I also again saw our dear afflicted frietirf, 
 Henry Hull, from America, who had so re- 
 
A'EN DYMONJD. 95 
 
 ^cently received the account of the removal, by 
 death, of his precious wife, his mother, son, 
 and brother in law, also of four other of his rela- 
 tions. He appeared to be wonderfully sup- 
 ported in sweet quiet and calmness ; his deport- 
 ment evincing that his trust was in the Al- 
 mighty, who wounds to heal, and kills to make 
 alive. 
 
 §lh Month, %4th. Since my return, my mind 
 has been, through unmerited mercy, richly re- 
 plenished with the incomes of sweet peace ; and 
 the prevailing language 4if my heart has been 
 in commemoration of the goodness of the Al- 
 mighty to so unworthy a worm. Return unto 
 thy rest O my soul ! for the Lord hath dealt 
 bountifully with thee ! 
 
 Soth. I have been at our meeting this morn- 
 ing; it was small, consisting chiefly of the 
 young people ; and I thought it a low time ; it 
 was so with myself. I had to lament that con- 
 tinued watchfulness was not kept to in our si- 
 lent sitting ; and came home under a feeling of 
 condemnation on that account. 
 
 2Sth. Our meeting, this morning was, I 
 thought, owned by the great Shepherd of Israel. 
 
m some accoukt or 
 
 I was favored to feel something- of his baptizing 
 power in my silent waiting, which raised thank- 
 fulness in my heart. Both that and our even- 
 ing' meeting were, I believe, considerably hurt 
 by unsuitable appearances in the ministry. Oh ! 
 that all who attempt to speak in the assemblies 
 of the people, would but dwell deep in the life, 
 and wait for the renewed baptisms of the Spirit 
 of truth, before they move in that awful work. 
 
 7 th Mo. 1st. In my little retirement this morn- 
 it) °% I was brought into a serious consideration of 
 the importance of time, and led to look back on 
 some of my past life, with a feeling of sweet 
 consolation, in the remembrance of those sea- 
 sons in which I have been enabled, through the 
 extension of Holy help, to resign myself into the 
 hands of a gracious Lord, and to give up all to 
 follow him in the way of apprehended duty. 
 And although, for some years past, 1 have been 
 but little engaged in public service, yet, upon 
 serious examination, I do not find that much 
 condemnation is laid to my charge on that ac- 
 count. I have been chiefly occupied in attend- 
 ing to business, and to my dear aged parent, 
 whose weak state claims my own and my sister's 
 close attention \ but 1 am not without distant 
 
ANN DYMOND. 97 
 
 prospects of religious service* should it prove 
 consistent with Divine ordering, to take my dear 
 parent before me ; and it is now, as it has been 
 at many times, the earnest desire of my heart, 
 that I may be preserved alive to all the future 
 requirings of my great and good Master, andmay 
 be enabled again, as heretofore, to leave all to 
 follow Him ; even if it should be to go to distant 
 lands in his service. 
 
 ~th Mo, bth Soon after sitting down in meet- 
 ing this morning, I was permitted to draw near 
 to the Fountain of all good, and to petition for 
 ability to worship acceptably ; and towards the 
 close of the meeting, had to bear public testi- 
 mony to the great benefit of true stillness and 
 waiting upon God, and returned home with the 
 sweet reward of peace. In the afternoon, I was 
 suddenly taken with a spasm in my stomach, 
 which, for a time, was very trying, and occa- 
 sioned considerable agitation, leaving me lan- 
 guid and weak. 
 
 1th 3Io. 22c/. Yesterday was our monthly 
 meeting, when I acquainted my friends with my 
 view of having meetings in some places, where 
 no friends reside, which claimed their sympa- 
 
$8 SOME ACCOUNT 0¥ 
 
 thy, and obtained the concurrence and unity of 
 the meeting ; and I was left at liberty to pro- 
 ceed. Peaceful quiet has been so far the re- 
 sult of giving up to apprehended duty ; and 
 the desire of my heart is, that faith and 
 preservation may be mercifully granted, in, 
 the .prosecution of so awful an engagement ! 
 
 2§th On the 26th 1 had a meeting with the in- 
 habitants of Tedburn and its vicinity. The meet- 
 ing was large, and I trust ended to satisfaction; 
 'though it proved a laborious time. I think I never 
 felt more stripped of every sensible feeling of 
 good, than I did in my ride thither ; and I was 
 almost ready to call in question the rectitude of 
 my movement; but in adorable mercy, best help 
 was near, and a portion of lively faith vouch- 
 safed, in which I was strengthened to express 
 what was given me to a people, most of whom 
 appeared to be of that number, who may be said, 
 " to live without God in the world." The 
 meeting closed after supplication to the Father 
 of Mercies on their behalf. 
 
 After having rested and taken some little re- 
 freshment, we set forward for Whitstone, where 
 
ANN DYMOND. 99 
 
 another meeting was appointed for half past 
 four. This was also large ; some of the people 
 seemed to have known something of real reli- 
 gion, but others appeared to he very widely re- 
 moved from what they would be thought to be. 
 I was enabled to labour amongst them, I trust 
 with a good degree of gospel authority, and re- 
 turned home with a feeling of quietude and 
 peace ; for which I desire to ascribe glory, ho- 
 nor, thanksgiving, and praise to Him, without 
 whom we can do nothing. 
 
 8th Mo nth, 6th. Went to meeting under a 
 feeling of poverty and abasement of mind; but 
 soon after sitting down, was favored with a 
 calm, and enabled, through mercy, to draw 
 near to the Fountain of life for a little renewed 
 help; and felt refreshed. Looking forward to 
 some more meetings with the people, the peti- 
 tion of my heart has been, that a portion of the 
 spirit which rested on Elijah of old, may be 
 mercifully poured forth in the needful time. 
 
 On the 9th I had a meeting at the village of 
 Wear ; and it may, 1 believe, be truly said, that 
 a blessed meeting it was. The presence of the 
 great and good Shepherd overshadowing us, we 
 
 F 2 
 
100 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 were favored to draw near to the Fountain of 
 life, and enabled to worship at the holy foot- 
 stool. Thus, through unmerited mercy, both 
 the people and my own soul were introduced, 
 by the baptizing influence of the Spirit, into a 
 lively feeling and participation of the body or 
 substance of Christ : and, under this feeling, 
 Truth's doctrines were largely declared amongst 
 them, to my own relief, and I trust to their edi- 
 fication ; and I was permitted to return home 
 with a thankful sense of so great a favor, desir- 
 ing to ascribe praise to Him who worketh ali 
 our right works in us and for us. 
 
 In the afternoon of the same day, I had a 
 meeting at Heavitree. This proved a very 
 exercising time : the minds of the people ap- 
 peared to be so unprepared, to receive any thing 
 of a religious nature, that I was,,for sometime, 
 ready to think the meeting must be concluded 
 without much if any outward labour ; but after 
 waiting awhile in silence, I believed it best for 
 me to stand up ; and by a close attention to my 
 Divine Guide, I was helped on. step by step, 
 to some degree of relief to my own mind. I 
 humbly trust the precious cause rather gained 
 than lost ground, in the minds of a few indivi- 
 
ANN DYMOND. 101 
 
 duals; but mourning and lamentation prevailed 
 in my mind, on behalf of the greater number 
 who attended. Oh, gracious Father! preserve 
 me, I pray Thee, simply dependant upon Thee, 
 and incline my heart more and more to follow 
 Thee in all thy leadings ! 
 
 On first day, the I5*h, I had a meeting in 
 the morning, at Ide : it was, I trust, a favored 
 time : there appeared to be an opening in the 
 minds of the people to hear the doctrines of 
 Truth; and some, I believe, weremade sensible 
 of the secret impressions of God's love to their 
 souls,- 
 
 The same afternoon at five, a meeting was 
 appointed at Thorverton : a large crowded meet- 
 ing it was ; so much so, that on first sitting 
 down, I was fearful it could not be held to sa- 
 tisfaction, on account of the heat : but the peo- 
 ple soon got settled, and although some hun- 
 dreds could not get seats, and many were with- 
 out doors, yet stillness soon prevailed ; and we 
 had a baptizing time together, to my own hum- 
 bling admiration and thankfulness. I returned 
 home with my poor frame much spent ; but my 
 mind was refreshed & encouraged in the renewed 
 
 p a 
 
102 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 belief, that the great God of the whole earth is 
 calling, by his own power, unto those who may- 
 be considered as in thehighways and hedges; and 
 thereby is working a great work on their hearts, 
 though much unseen by their fellow mortals. 
 
 22c?. My mind bowed awfully, looking towards 
 a meeting with some of the inhabitants of this 
 populous city. 
 
 23c/. In the morning I went to meeting under 
 a sense of poverty, and the great need I had to 
 experience a renewal of spiritual strength; and 
 was enabled, through unmerited mercy, to draw 
 near to the Fountain of life, and worship at the 
 footstool of Jesus. 
 
 In the evening was a very large crowded 
 meeting. Oh ! how was my soul bowed at the 
 prospect ! Goodness, Divine goodness, was 
 near in the needful time ; and I was strength- 
 ened largely to declare gospel truths to this nu- 
 merous assembly ; I trust to the edification of 
 some. It was to my own humbling admiration 
 and peaceful relief. May my soul bow in hum- 
 ble prostration before Him who worketh won- 
 derfully for his people 1 
 
ANN DYMOND. 103 
 
 9th Month, loth. I have had two more pub- 
 lic meetings in this place ; one on last first day, 
 and the other the first day before. The last- 
 mentioned was a very hard, trying", laborious 
 time : there seemed to be but very little sensi- 
 bility of religion to be felt in the minds of the 
 people. I laboured among them, and was favored 
 with peace. The meeting last first day was rather 
 more encouraging ; some minds were reached, 
 and Truth, I trust, gained ground. Everlast- 
 ing Love overshadowed us, and I was, through 
 abundant mercy, permitted to receive the re- 
 ward of true peace ; for which 1 desire rightly 
 to bow in thankfulness. 
 
 On the 21st of the 9th Month, I had a large 
 meeting at Silverton. It was held without doors \ 
 and though a very exercising, yet I believe a 
 truly baptizing opportunity ; confirming me in. 
 the belief, that our great and holy Head is 
 working secretly, yet wonderfully, in the hearts 
 of the people. I trust the time is hastening, 
 when swords shall be beaten into ploughshares, 
 and when bloodshed shall cease. May the great 
 God hasten the day ; for truly the devastation, 
 that war is now making in the earth, is dreadful 
 indeed ! and though we in this little island have 
 
 E 4 
 
104 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 been spared from seeing it with our eyes, yet 
 our souls are dismayed and bowed down at the 
 hearing of it ; and some of us do crave, that 
 while the judgments of the Lord are abroad in 
 the earth, the inhabitants thereof may learn 
 righteousness. 
 
 I had two more appointed meetings in the 10th 
 and 11th Months ; one at Budleigh Salterton, 
 and the last at Cullumpton ; both were seasons 
 of Divine favcr. 
 
SECTION IX. 
 
 Feelings on the decease of a Friend — Visit to a MwNterer in 
 Prison — Public Meetings in Exeter and other Places— 
 Decease of her Mother — Concern to visit the Eastern 
 Counties — Preparations for the Journey — Her decease. 
 
 1st Month, 6th, 1813. My mind mournful 
 and sad on reflecting on our late great loss, that 
 of our friend John Abbott. I felt also an in- 
 creasing weight in the prospect of endeavour- 
 ing to see a poor murderer in the county gaol. 
 If it were consistent with best wisdom, I should 
 be thankful to be permitted to feel my mind 
 swore strengthened in faith, than is at present 
 the case. 
 
 Writing to a friend relative to the decease of 
 J. Abbott, she says : 
 
 " First let me advert to the sad scene which 
 unavoidably dwells much on my mind, the re- 
 moval of our late precious friend. Ah ! we feel 
 it to be a great loss in this quarter. Indeed it 
 has, to me, felt like being renewedly deprived of 
 an earthly parent ; for our dear J. A. has beea 
 
106 SOME ACCOUKT OF 
 
 in times past, as also latterly, qualified to band 
 parental aid, in counsel and advice ; but be is 
 doubtless removed in unerring wisdom. May 
 we, who feel bis loss, improve by the lesson 
 wbieb such privations teach, and seek to have 
 our dependence entirely fixed, on tho unfailing 
 Source of help and peace ! 
 
 1st Month, 10th. Was not left without some 
 consolation, in the revival of a little hope, that 
 I am not quite forsaken. 
 
 llih. On opening the Bible, I turned to the 
 i30th Psalm, which I read with renewed in- 
 struction and comfort, feeling its application to 
 myself. 
 
 13th. Reading in Job Scott's Journal afforded 
 me renewed encouragement to press forward, in 
 faithfulness to Divine discoveries. 
 
 19th. Attended our monthly meeting at Cul- 
 lumpton : it was small, but through mercy a fa- 
 vored time. I was publicly engaged both in 
 testimony and supplication to my own admiration 
 and relief; also in an opportunity after dinner. 
 
 21th. At meeting both morning p.nd afternoon, 
 which were held in silence. My lot was to sit 
 in a sense of deep inward poverty. 
 
ANN DYMOND. 107 
 
 28ih. Week-day meeting, which was held in 
 silence. I was mercifully favored with a little 
 renewal of strength, but did not keep strict 
 watch enough out of meeting. 
 
 2d Month, lith. Attended meeting both 
 morning and afternoon. In the first, after two 
 appearances in testimony, I had a little addition 
 to make, in much fear and weakness; and I be- 
 lieve suffered loss myself, for want of more ready 
 obedience in the early part of the meeting. Re- 
 turned home under a feeling of poverty. 
 
 2d Month, l&tk. Our friends, Sarah Hustler 
 and Ann Burgess, at meeting this morning. It 
 appeared to me to be a trying time ; it was held 
 altogether in silence : the desire of my heart 
 was, that we may profit by these dispensations. 
 
 1 
 25th. This day attended meeting, which, 
 though small, I thought was owned by the over- 
 shadowing of good. I was engaged in solemn 
 supplication, to my own humbling admiration 
 and peace. 
 
 3d Month, 2±th. Went early to the Assize 
 H&U, and heard the trial of the poor murderer^ 
 
108 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 on whose account my mind had been much ex- 
 ercised. It was an affecting scene. I felt 
 much., and should have been thankful to have 
 seen more signs of penitence than I fear were 
 exhibited ; but my mind derived a little degree 
 of support and consolation, under the persua- 
 sion that I was clear of his blood, having yielded 
 obedience to what I believed was required of me 
 respecting him, by the visit paid to him in pri- 
 son. This was in company with my friend Sa- 
 rah Abbott, who had a similar concern on her 
 mind, and who was strengthened to give up 
 thereto on returning home from Bath, v>here 
 she had been to attend the burial of her de- 
 ceased husband's remains. 
 
 Of the visit to the murderer, A. Dymond says, 
 in a letter written to one of her friends : 
 
 " My uncle and brother applied to a justice, 
 who resides a few miles in the country, and very 
 readily obtained an order to let S. A. and my- 
 self and friends see the gaol. The justice was 
 told what we had in view, and he behaved 
 kindly. The murderer had been previously in- 
 formed of our visit, and had signified his will- 
 ingness or wish for it. Some of us went up and 
 
ANN DYMOND. 109 
 
 spoke to him. He soon appeared tendered, and 
 wept; and in the course of the time we were 
 with him, both during silence and outward com- 
 munication, he appeared to be reduced to a sen- 
 sibility of his dreadful situation; though he said 
 very little, except in expressing his thankful- 
 ness for the visit, or in answering any questions 
 that were put to him. It was a memorable, 
 baptizing opportunity, and one that I think will 
 not be forgotten by any one who was present." 
 
 4th Month, 22c?. At meeting held in silence ? 
 my mind was exercised in labour for the arising 
 of pure life in my heart, though little if any 
 sensible feeling thereof was vouchsafed. 
 
 5th Month, IStk. Attended our week-day 
 meeting ; very small, and held in silence. Deep 
 inward poverty continues to be my experience. 
 
 16th. My mind still poor. Kept within the 
 whole day. Towards evening a degree of thank- 
 fulness was experienced for a little revival of hope. 
 
 2ith. I have been permitted to experience 
 some renewed evidence of Divine love. Oh [ 
 what an inestimable favor and privilege it is 5 
 
110 SOME ACCOUNT' OF 
 
 to be sometimes enabled to draw near to the in- 
 exhaustible Fountain of good. 
 
 1th Month, 25th. Two months ha Ye elapsed 1 
 since I wrote in this book ; during which time, 
 my mind has passed through many besetments 
 and exercises : yet, under all, I have to ac- 
 knowledge that the Lord is good, and that His- 
 mercies fail not. 
 
 The 25th of last month I left home for Bris- 
 tol, and was favored to reach it in safety the 
 same evening. Attended their meeting both* 
 morning and evening on first day, the 27th. 
 The former was deeply exercising to me : my> 
 mind seemed to be introduced into a state of 
 death. In the evening, after sitting some time, 
 I felt, as I apprehended, the word of command* 
 to- speak, and through best help was enabled to< 
 throw off a load of exercise, in bearing testi- 
 mony to the all-sufficiency of Divine power, in 
 the exercise of the ministerial gift. I felt much j 
 spent, but my mind was greatiy relieved, and. 
 in peaceful quiet, under a belief that I had been 
 endeavouring to do the will of my Heavenly F'a-^ 
 ther, though it was greatly in the cross to flap 
 own nature. 
 
ANN DYMOND. Ill 
 
 The following day I attended the meeting of 
 Ministers & Elders at Frenchay ! The fore pant 
 was a season of poverty; towards the eonclns^on, 
 life arose, and we were refreshed together. My 
 lot was in silence. Third day, 29th, was the 
 quarterly meeting : it was large, and favored 
 with the presence of the Most High, I thought, 
 in an eminent degree, for which many of our 
 minds were bowed in thankfulness to Him. 
 
 [She attended a few other meetings, and paid 
 a visit to her friend P. II. Gurney at Bath] 
 
 On the 12th left Bath, and came to Bristol 
 I was favored with the precious incomes of Di- 
 vine love in my solitary ride, which caused my 
 heart to overflow with thankfulness. 
 
 From Bristol she went to Taunton, and on 
 the 18th says : " I went to Wellington in the 
 evening, attended their meeting, and was per- 
 mitted to gain relief by uttering a few sentences. 
 Returned in peace; and, after my arrival at 
 home, was favored to feel a peaceful quiet in 
 the retrospect of my journey. This is the ut- 
 most I dare hope for in regard to any move- 
 ment of mine." 
 
112 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 8th Month, loth. Attended Spiceland meet- 
 ing, in which, after a time of deep inward wait- 
 ing in silence, I was favored with ability to de- 
 clare gospel truths among them, to my own un- 
 speakable relief and satisfaction. 
 
 17th. Our monthly meeting at Spiceland, 
 when I had again to sound the glad tidings of 
 the gospel of peace and salvation; and I returned 
 with a feeling of thankfulness. 
 
 1st 3Jonth, 22c/, 1814. Attended meeting 
 morning and afternoon : both low times with 
 me, though a little ability was felt to breathe 
 for help and preservation. 
 
 2c? Month, 21**. My mind low, but not with- 
 out hope. 
 
 22c?. Comforted in the belief that the Lord 
 hath not forsaken me. What a favor ! 
 
 Sth Month, 17th. I seem to have very little 
 ability for uniting with my friends in religious 
 exercise ; and sometimes think whether those 
 favors are not totally withdrawn from me. I 
 try to beg for patience, but even in that I al- 
 
ANN DYMOND. 113 
 
 most fear I ask amiss ; there is such a dryness 
 and insensibility about me ; however I am thank- 
 ful for a season of refreshment through the mi- 
 nistry of a friend : at least it was peculiarly 
 adapted to the state of my mind. 
 
 12th Month, §\st. On a retrospect of the past 
 year, I find cause for mournings that the time 
 thus granted me, hath not been spent in all re- 
 spects as it ought. Oh ! that more watchful- 
 ness may be my experience through the remain- 
 ing period of my life ! 
 
 1st Month, 2d, 1815. Having of late felt a 
 desire again to record some of my exercises and 
 the merciful dealings of the Almighty with me, 
 I now begin almost with the year. The closing 
 of the last, and the opening of this have been 
 deeply humbling to my mind. 
 
 Having for some time been much exorcised 
 on behalf of the inhabitants of this city, and ap- 
 prehending the time to become for opening to my 
 friends the prospect I had of holding meetings 
 with them generally ; after many deep conflict- 
 ing seasons, known only to the searcher of hearts, 
 1 ventured , at our monthly meeting in the 9th 
 
H4 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 Month last, to spread my concern before my 
 friends. Much unity and sympathy was ex- 
 pressed ; and as X had a view also to some meet- 
 ings in Cornwall, friends thought it right to 
 grant me a certificate, setting me at liberty to 
 proceed. And I have in humble thankfulness 
 to acknowledge, that although the weight of 
 the prospect has seemed at times more than I 
 could support ; yet my mind is stayed in confi- 
 dence on that Arm of Divine power, which hath 
 hitherto helped me. 
 
 On oth day, the 17th of 10th Mo last, 1814, W 
 left home, and reached Plymouth tile same even- 
 ing, attended their monthly meeting, and a 
 public meeting in. the evening. On 2d day had 
 a large, and, I believe, satisfactory meeting, at 
 Tavistock. The men friends called on two per* 
 sons who had shown themselves very friendly; 
 one of whom was a Methodist preacher ; they 
 both of th m expressed their satisfaction at hav- 
 ing attended the meeting, more especially as 
 they had been undeceived in an ideawhich they 
 had entertained, that we, as a society, held 
 Unitarian principles. This led to more conver- 
 sation, which proved satisfactory, and some 
 books were distributed. We proceeded to Gull- 
 
ANN DYMOND. 115 
 
 ington on 3d day ; had a meeting there that 
 evening. It was to me a trying opportunity ; 
 but I felt peacefully quiet after it. 
 
 We reached Launceston the following morn- 
 ing, procured the Assize Hall to hold the meet- 
 ing in, which was, on the whole, quiet, though 
 much disturbed towards the latter part by a cry 
 of fire. We got to Truro on 6th day, and had 
 a large meeting in their new Town Hall. It 
 was remarkably quiet, and I believe satisfactory. 
 
 The following week she completed this visit, 
 of which she says : 
 
 " My dear uncle Sparkes accompanied me in 
 this little journey, whose help and sympathy 
 were truly cordial and strengthening in this 
 weighty engagement. 
 
 " The day after our return from Cornwall, I 
 proceeded in the momentous engagement of 
 having the inhabitants of Exeter in different 
 districts invited ; mostly on first day evenings, 
 to attend at our meeting house. 
 
 " It has hitherto been an engagement of a 
 peculiarly trying nature ; from what cause I 
 must leave. 
 
116 SOKfE ACCOUNT OF 
 
 " At several of the meetings, Divine help wa& 
 evidently near in a remarkable manner : but the 
 depth of the exercise can only be fathomed by 
 that Spirit which " Searcheth all things \ yea, 
 the deep things of God.' 3 
 
 On first day, 1st Month, 1st, 1815, I was very 
 much tried in a public meeting with inward po- 
 verty and desertion, being ready to query : 
 " Hath the Lord forsaken me r" And to fear 
 lest all that I have believed to be his own work, 
 should have been a deception. I was brought 
 into a state of deep searching of heart ; and be- 
 lieved it right to propose meeting the same com- 
 pany on 3d day evening. 
 
 4th day. The meeting was held, but very few 
 attended ; however there was a precious covers 
 ing in silence, and I believe there were amongst 
 the few, some serious seeking minds, to whom 
 the language of encouragement appeared to be 
 the language of truth. My mind was, in a good 
 degree, relieved, and the meeting closed after 
 a time of solemn supplication, 
 
 5th. Our little meeting was held in silence, 
 and was a season of some renewal of strength. 
 
ANN DYMOND. 317 
 
 x &th. Morning- meeting held in silence : a 
 small public one in the evening- ; there was, I 
 thought, solemnity in the silent part, and I had, 
 though in much weakness, to express what was 
 required of me; but my feelings, after the close, 
 were indiscribably trying, from what cause I 
 must leave. Oh, most holy Father ! be pleased 
 to give me to see if it be thy will that the hold- 
 ing of these meetings should cease, or be gra- 
 ciously pleased to grant a little of Thy own glo- 
 rious light to shine upon it, before another is 
 appointed. 
 
 1st Month, 20r7i. I felt most easy to decline 
 ^holding any more public meetings at present, 
 my dear mother's situation requiring so much 
 .attention, that my mind seems unequal to the 
 twofold exercise. I have therefore felt easy in 
 coming to this conclusion. 
 
 25f k. 1 am pleased to hear that a friend in the 
 ministry is coming this way ; but it is discourag- 
 ing to those who have to go forth on gospel 
 errands to see the great breaches that are made 
 in our little society, through the misconduct of 
 some individuals, who from their station in it, 
 ought to be as way marks to others. Oh, the 
 
IIS SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 money getting spirit! how does it slay its thou- 
 sands and tens of thousands ! 
 
 2d Month, 1th. My mind calm and peaceful 
 this morning ; and a desire raised for preservation. 
 
 13th. Quietness, as a canopy, covers my mind. 
 What an inestimable favor ! I feel resigned te 
 the weighty engagement, which is still before 
 me, and "which has appeared, and -does appear, 
 av> iui indeed. 
 
 2d Month, 2Qth. A large meeting at the in- 
 terment of the remains of my aunt Sparkes. 
 Truth's doctrines were opened in the demon- 
 stration of life and power ; and the meeting 
 concluded in solemn supplication. 
 
 3c/ Month, 30th. This day closed the life of 
 a tenderly heloved parent, in the 85th year of 
 her age. She is gathered like a shock of corn 
 into the garner of the Lord. 
 
 &th Month, 9th. Attended the burial of the 
 remains of my precious parent, which was a truly 
 memorable season. The overshadowing of Di- 
 vine love and goodness was extended, in an 
 eminent degree, both at meeting, which was 
 
'ANN DYMOND. 11® 
 
 ^rery large, and also at the grave, during a so- 
 lemn time in silence. The same precious influ- 
 ence continued with us, during the remaining 
 part of the day. 
 
 6th 31onth, 1th. The remains of Robert Cross 
 were interred after an unusually crowded meet- 
 ing, which was, I believe, owned by the great 
 Shepherd of Israel. Truth's doctrines were 
 dispensed in a manner quite unlocked for; and 
 I trust instruction was sealed to many minds. 
 
 mh 3Ionih, 2oth, 1815. A public mectkig 
 was held, and although two strangers werchere, 
 yet the whole of this evening's public service 
 fell to my lot. I thought Divine goodness was 
 near in a remarkable manner, enabling me to 
 open the doctrines of truth, to the strength and 
 consolation of my tried mind, 
 
 Sth 31onth, 1th. Yesterday evening a large 
 public meeting was held. My mind was much 
 tried previously to my going, lest that quiet cen- 
 tering might not be come at, which is most de- 
 sirable ; but through great mercy, I was fa- 
 vored, soon after entering the meeting, to ex- 
 perience that calming influence to overspread 
 
120 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 my mind, which commandeth the winds and the 
 waves, and they obey. The same spreading 
 over the meeting, we were favored to experi* 
 ence a heavenly baptizing time together ; and 
 truth's doctrines flowed like oil on the heads of 
 the people, to my humbling admiration. The 
 meeting closed after solemn prayer and thanks- 
 giving unto Him, to whom alone all praise is due. 
 
 Qth Month. Had a large public meeting at 
 Exmouthj in which the overshadowing of Hea- 
 venly goodness was eminently experienced. A 
 time of great trial of faith preceded this meet- 
 ing; a magistrate the week before having for- 
 bidden its being held. This obstruction and 
 subsequent conversations, &c. led to deep search- 
 ing of heart, and great indeed was the conde- 
 scension of our Heavenly Father, who made 
 himself known by the breaking of bread amongst 
 us, to my humbling admiration. The meeting 
 closed under a solemn feeling ; and peace, sweet 
 peace, bath since been the covering of my mind. 
 May all that is within me bow in humble reve- 
 rence and willing obedience, to the further un- 
 foldings of the Divine will. 
 
ANN DYMOND* 321 
 
 The last-mentioned meeting closed this ar- 
 duous engagement, in which the friends of her 
 monthly meeting, in their testimony respecting 
 her say : " We believe her sincere desire was 
 to be preserved from having any confidence in 
 the flesh, and to depend alone on holy help ; and 
 it was evident her great Master was graciously 
 pleased to afford it from season to season, thereby 
 enabling her, not only to advocate the cause of 
 truth and righteousness, but also the rectitude 
 of those principles by which we are distinguished 
 as a religious society, with clearness and gos- 
 pel authority." 
 
 5th Month, 7th, 1816. My mind has been 
 humbled this day, under a sense of my great 
 unworthiness to partake of the mercies of our 
 Heavenly Father; and my soul has been bowed 
 before Him, and once more enabled to feel af- 
 ter resignation to His holy will, and I trust I 
 could, in a good degree, adopt the language of 
 Addison : 
 
 " My life, if thou preserv'st my life, 
 Thy sacrifice shall be." 
 
 Oh, may I be strengthened to keep this co- 
 venant with the unslumbering Shepherd of Israel, 
 
l£* SOME ACCOUNT 01 
 
 5th Mo. 15th. She thus informs an intimate 
 friend of a prospect she had of again requesting 
 a certificate for public service : 
 
 " My mind is at present so variously occu- 
 pied and exercised, that it is difficult to come 
 at that quiet centre I desire. One cause, I be- 
 lieve,^ I may now venture to communicate to 
 thee; but at present to thee only. It is a 
 subject which has long weightily impressed my 
 mind ; an apprehension that it will be right for 
 me to cast myself a little more amongst my 
 friends, in the counties of Essex, Suffolk, and 
 Norfolk. I have no companion in view, nor am 
 I anxious about one. I trust that if I find 
 strength to open the matter to my frfends, and 
 they should feel freedom to liberate me, a suit- 
 able companion, either Minister or Elder, will 
 turn up to unite with me in one part of the exer- 
 cise, namely, in going from house to house in 
 the city of Norwich. My view is to hold meet- 
 ings with some of those not of our society, and 
 by no means to pay a general -visit to either of 
 the counties, I assure thee, the thought of 
 leaving home and of the great exertion in my 
 enfeebled state of body, added to my unfitness 
 for so weighty a work, is at times almost over- 
 
* 
 
 ANN DVMOND. 12$ 
 
 whelming ; and the desire of my heart is, that 
 if the requiring be a right one, I may be favored 
 with clearness and faith proportionate thereto.'*" 
 
 On the 5th of the 6th Month, she solemnly- 
 laid this concern before her friends, when much? 
 sympathy was felt, and a certificate was granted, . 
 expressive of their full unity therein. 
 
 6th Mo., 15th. Surely a poorer creature never 
 set out on such an errand, as the one I have in 
 contemplation. I seem, I sometimes think, to re- 
 semble one who is almost perishing for want, at- 
 tempting to give his neighbours that which he 
 has not. Under these impressions, the breath- 
 ing of my heart is, for an increase of faith. 
 
 6th Mo. 17th. Favored this morning with a 
 little renewal of faith. 
 
 ISth. This morning 1 felt remarkably well in 
 my health, but its continuance was short, being 
 soon reminded of the uncertainty of all things 
 here, by a sudden affection in my head, which 
 almost, for a time } deprived me of sense \ and 
 
124 SOME ACCOUNT OF 
 
 I believe I should have fallen down, had I not 
 been in a situation to support myself by taking 
 hold. 
 
 This incident, although trifling- in outward ap~ 
 pearance, hath led me to consider the awfulness> 
 of my situation more closely than heretofore. 
 
 After committing to paper the last memoran* 
 dum, she experienced increased debility and 
 great nocturnal restlessness : yet, with her cha- 
 racteristic fortitude, she continued to evince her 
 devotedness to the service of her great Master^ 
 by preparing for her intended journey. It how- 
 ever pleased Him to accept the resignation of 
 her will, and, in the midst of her preparations, 
 to release her from further conflict, and from 
 further service in the church. On the 28th of 
 the 6th Month, within a few days before her in- 
 tended departure from home, a fit, supposed to 
 be apoplectic, and similar to that recorded by 
 herself on the 18th, put a sudden period to her 
 life. Her remains were interred on the 7th of 
 the 7th Month, after a large and solemn meeting, 
 -*&&&— 
 
 PRINTED BY 
 
 HARGROVE, GAWTHORP, & HAR GROVZ-, 
 
 HERALD-OFFICE, YORK. 
 
./ ' 
 
 '•£> 
 
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 
 
 022 015 890 1