q«:: : €^ b y DANrEL BRAYTON, ? r , , MARY EARL, 5 ^ mm A SHORT ACCOUNT LIFE AND RELIGIOUS LABOURS PATIENCE BRATTQN, CHAPTER U Her vi/tt to Friends in the Middle and Southern Provinces* '.AVING left home on the 9th day of the 5th month 1771, to visit Friends in the weftern provinces; on the 19th of 6th month, with my companion jane Willis from Long-Ifiand, I crof- fed the river Delaware at CorryePs ferry into Bucks county, and the 20th we went nine miles to Plumftead, and had a fatisfactory meeting there, as alfo at Buckingham and Wrightflown. In the following week, after viiiting a ficfc friend, and not finding mvfelf clear of Buckingham meeting, we returned on the 23d, being fird- day, and were at their meeting. From thence we attended Makefield meeting on the 25th, and were again at a meeting at Wrightftown, and a bleffed feafon it proved, in which I was filent; alio attended meetings at the Falls and Briftol, ( io ) which, though trying feafons, it pleafed the Fa- ther of all our mercies to be underneath to fuf- tain me. After which we went to James Thorn- ton's at Byberry, and lodged, and were at meet- ing there next day; and in the afternoon rode fifteen miles to Philadelphia, to John Pember- ton's, and were kindly received. Here I expe- rienced a diftreffing feafon; my friends per- ceived it, and were concerned to fpeak comfort- ably to me. The 30th, being firft-day, I had an exercifing meeting in the morning, but my good Mailer fhewed me, that I ought to look round the city, and view the walls thereof: in the afternoon the light and opening of divine favour was extended, to our comfort, and'at the evening meeting the Lord's power gained the victory; may all be afcribed to his great name, lit of 7th month attended the feleft meeting, and a favourable time it was; alfo vifited a friend in a diftreiTed ftate of mind. Next day were at the Bank meeting, which was to me a good meeting; I had reafon to be thankful for all the mercies that the Lord had bellowed upon me. On the 4th was at their week day meet- ing, and was comforted therein. The next day attended the youth's meeting, which was a good meeting, and many lively tefti monies were borne; but I thought it my place to be filent. On the 7th, being firft-day, went to Frankfort, five miles, and held a good meeting; after which returning to Philadelphia, went to the evening meeting, and a good open time it was} I had ( " ) reafon to bid's and praife my God, for all his favours. After which we had a fatisfa&ory meeting at Marion, and alfo at Haverford; in the evening we had an open time in a friend's family; next day were at a meeting at Newtown, which was a good feafon, feeling the unity one with another. We alfo had a good open time at Middletown, the heavenly power arofe overall, which made my heart to rejoice in the Lord alone, who hath made good all his promifes to me. On the 1 2th, were at Providence meet- ing, which, for a while was trying; but the Lord's power arofe over all; to him be the praife who is worthy of all honour for ever. The next day fpent at Mordecai Yarnal's, where I was indifpofed in body, but kept about, and had caufe of thankfulnefs for the favour. We had next day-, being firft of the week, a good meeting at Springfield, may the Lord have the praife; and in the afternoon were at a large meeting at Derby, which was a good fatisfac- tory time. On the 15th, we rode fix miles to Philadelphia, and attended the feleci meeting; thence we croffcd over Delaware, and rode fix miles to Haddonfield; next day had a good meeting there: after meeting, we vifited Ifaac Andrews, and were much comforted by him, he being a valuable friend. Next day we went to Chefter meeting held at Moore's-Town, which was a favoured feafon, and I thought I fhould be content, though bread and waiter were my portion, if the honour of God might be in do- ( »* ) minion. We then went to Eveiham, wher^ we had a favoured meeting. Oh ! that my Lord and Mailer, may have the praife of all his works* for he alone is worthy of all praife; might and dominion is with him for ever. Thence to Mount-Holly, and attending meetings fore and afternoon, the latter in filence; and had reafon to blefs my Matter, (for the enjoyment of filence was fweet to me,) in that he gave me ftrength to know how to be abafed and how to abound* On the 20th we rode five miles to Ancocus meeting, and a remarkable time it feemed to be. Next day, being firfl: of the week, were at meeting at Burlington, where we "had the com* pany of Samuel Neal, from Ireland. In the afternoon meeting I was filent, and in the even- ing vifited feveral friends. We next attended meetings at Old Springfield, and at a fchool- houfe. Then at Upper-Springfield, which was a good meetings but I felt great poverty; may it be 'an encouragement to fome, into whofe hands this may fall, that they may know their fufficiency is of God. In the afternoon we made a fatisfa&ory vifit to a fick man, and re* turned to Cleayton Newbold's, and lodged* On the 24th rode feven miles to Upper Free- hold, and had a favoured meeting; after which, we rode three miles to Nathan Wright's, in whofe family we had a fweet opportunity. We next attended meetings at CrofTwicks, and a fele£l meeting for minifters and elders; and on the 26th we were at Mansfield, where the ( *3 ) Lord's prefence was witneffed like a gentle, fhower, to the comforting of the faithful fol- lowers of truth; may the praife be given him. We alfo had a meeting the fame day at Dutch* neck, and the next day at Bordentown, where we vifited John Sykes and wife, who ate very aged and valuable Friends. 28th, being firii dav of the week, we attended two meetings at Trenton, to our comfort, and next day one at Stony-Brook: here I parted with my dear com- panion Jane Willis, which was a trying circum- ilance to us both, from the mutual love we fek for one another, fhe returning home. My dear friend Rebecca Wright, wife of Nathan Wright, accompanying me, we crciTed the Delaware again into Bucks county, and went to Wrighutown, where we lodged, and taking meetings at Horfham and North-wales, Richland, Pottfgrove and Exeter, came to Maiden Creek, and attended two meetings there, on the 4th of 8th month, being firit day of the week, where I was favoured with divine open- ings, though exceedingly weak in my fpirit, but the Lord's power went over all. Thence we went over the Blue Mountains to Bruntwlck. and had a meeting in a barn, and was favoured with a good feafon. On the 7th were at Read- i-ng; though poor in my fpirit, yet was favoured with divine openings; may the Lord have the praife. On the 8th were at meeting at Robin* ion's, and a hard trying time it was, but I hsd reafon to praife my God for my poverty being ft ( FA- ) brought to know my flxength was in the Lord alone. After attending Nantmill meeting, we went to Concord and attended the feleft quarterly meeting on fevench, and the public meeting' there on firft-day. Here we again met Samuel Neal and many other Friends, and on the 12th attended the quarterly meeting at Concord for Chefter: where I had a defire in my mind, that I might be excufed that day, from bearing a part in the miniftry, but my Father had com- panion on me, and drew me in tender love, that I could not forbear, finding a neceffity to give up to do his will: and blefled be his name, we had a favoured meeting. Next day we were at the youth's meeting, held once a year at Derby, where. many friends from Philadelphia came, and we were favoured with divine open- ings at that time; may we ever look to the fountain of all our mercies. Thence going to the Valley meeting, we had a precious time, wherein I beheld the flrength that is in weak- nefs: at Plymouth and New- Providence we had alfo good meetings. On the 17th we had a trying meeting at Pikeland; but the power of the Holy One arofeand gave the viftory: after which, we went home with Sufannah Lightfoot, who came feveral miles to meet us; taking meetings at Uwchland, Gofhen, Kennet, Eaft and Weft Calif, fome of which were largp and much favoured, though at times in much weak- pefs of fpirit, in which divine ftrength was ofteij ( iff ) manlfeiled ; may the Lord have the praifc thereof. On the 23d we were at Sadfbury meeting, which was filent,- and I felt peace of ifcind: and on the 24th attended Lampeter meeting where it fcemed to me, that out of dark- nefs there arofe a marvellous liQht- and we were comforted together; bleffed be the Lord. On the 25th, being firfb-day, we had two good meetings at Lancafter, light breaking forth, and a comfortable time it was; but oh! how had I been buried in forrow, in which I had for a time to travail. — Then we had a little time with minifters and elders, this' being a general meeting, we were favoured with good and wholefome advice, that afforded me fome ftrength; bleffed be the name of the Lord, who permitteth'our trials, that we may know him to be our Redeemer. On the 26th were at two meetings more, which were favoured op- portunities, and excited our thankfulnefs to the Divine Author of all our mercies. On the 27th we left Lancafter and rode to Sufquehannah River, and had a'foiall meeting at a Friend's houfe, which was a o;ood oDDor- amity. Thence to Yorktown, and lodging at William Matthews's, rode fourteen miles next day to Newbury, and had a -fatisfaftory meet- ing; though poor in my fpirit, yet was com- forted. After riding fix miles further, had a .diftreffed night, pain of body, and a fever; V next day went to Warrington meeting, and though I was weak and fearful that I c6uid not E 2 C 16 ) endure it, yet my gracious Mailer gave me ftrength in my weaknefs of body and mind, and -we had a hleffed meeting: 1 was neither weary nor faint; may the Lord have the praife! How he fupports the poor travellers, and enables them to. fubmit to his holy will, to be made willing even to die where he. may be pleafcd to lay us! — Afternoon riding feven miles to John Grift's, I was aimofi funk in my mind; but going to bed I was favoured with a good night's reft, for which I was thankful; and iirthe morn- ing, finding myfelf too unwell to purfue my journey, and being deilrous of returning to Yorktown, my friends provided me a waggon, and putting in a bed, took me eighteen miles to William Matthews's, and that night I had a hard fit of the fever and ague; but my friends were very kind to me: — I" thought before this, that I had parted with all I had for the fake of my dear Mafter, but now I began to think that I had not, for the thoughts of my hufband and children came fo near me, that it was another trial ; fuch feafons are permitted to prove us, if we have parted with all or not, which we cannot tell before we are tried. 31ft, being feventh-day of the week, I was very poorly, and on the ijfit of 9th month had. a very fick •and diftrefled day. The 2d, felt more com- fortable, but fo weak that I could fit up but little; but having a good night's reft, the next day I felt better. We tarried at William Matthews's until fixth-day, when we rode b$ck U c 3 UP ( *7 ) to John Grift's, where I was concerned to have a little time in the familyy wherein I found peace. The 7th we went to meeting at Huntingdon,, where I was favoured "in teilimony, though I was fo weak that I thought I fhould have faint- ed, and muft have fat down; but ftrength was given me, and I was enabled to blefs the good hand that was with me. — The Lord is ftrength in weaknefs, he will fuftain his depending chil- dren; but oh! I tremble for fear I fhould 11 be found faithful in his great cauie ; we hav need of the prayers of the faithful, that, we may not mifs of the prize at kill. The. 8th we were at meeting at Moaallin, and a favoured time we had there, through the mercy of God: I can- not fpeak Efficiently of his bounties, oh! that my {pint may bow down and exalt his great name ! After meeting we rode back three miles to William Delap's, who, with our other guide, after dinner, rode with us twenty-three miles- that night to William Matthews's* The Lyrd alone can preferve me, who is pkaied to beftow his favours upon me, renew- ipg my ftrength, in confirming his promises to- me ; my cup runs over with the Lord's goodnefs* It was hard to give up to go back into the country again, after my illneis; but I was. brought to refign to his will, in which I rejoice, that he made me willing to goon his eriahdj if I had not gone, I fhould have been doing my own will, and not my heavenly Mailer's ; I long to do his will, and not my own. On the c B 3 ( i8 ) went with fome Friends to vifit the prisoners in Yorktown, and had a favourable time in the pri- fon; the Lord helpeth me to be faithful in fub- mitting to the crofs ; my nature was difpofed to flinch ; but I can fay, that the Lord will not leave his children, until he enables them to be faithful, if they only yield obedience to his requirings. Returning to our lodgings I felt much heavi- nefs of heart, exciting an 'enquiry what I had done to occafion it; yet defires were preferved, that the Lord would make me contented wher- ever my lot might be caft. The loth attended meeting at Yorktown to fatisfacHon, then returned again to William Matthews's. i ith, we rode to Wright's Ferry, and crofting the Sufquehannah River, rode twelve miles, and next day fifteen further, to Sadfbury meeting again, which wis a highly favoured time; oh! that the Lord may ever be obeyed,- for then we fliall receive the wages of peace. On the 13th, we were at a monthly meeting at Keniiet, where the faithful were comforted in a good degree; here was an an- cient Friend who was ninety-four years of age, and had walked two miles to meeting .that day-; her name was Deborah Clark. After dinner we rode to Thomas Carlton's and lodged, and next day he accompanied us five miles to Okcfin* where I may fay, I was favoured with divine affiftance. After vifiting a lick friend about two milts from thence, we went to Ifaac Jackfon's and lodged* Next day being x 6th, and, ( *f ) feventh of the week, towards night we went to Jofhua Pufey's, where I was in much diftrefsj. which brought me to look into my own heart, to fee if I had not come in my own will and ftrength, that I could not be more contented; but it pleafed the Lord to bring to my mind what wonders he had wrought for me ; why fhould I defpair, for I was moftly concerned at prefent, that I fhould never fee my home again; for my great Lord and Mafter had given me fome encouragement thereof before I left my home, but-I thought I might be miftaken, which canfed my mind to overflow with forrow;. but I was brought to fee that his arm was made bare for my flay and comfort ; and I was en- abled to fay, bleffed be his holy name for ever* We went to bed, and my mind was brought into a dependence upon the Lord alone, and the winds and feas were laid, and I felt thank- fulnefs to Almighty God. I hope this may prove a comfort to fome poor travelling foul, to know that other feet have trod this diftreffed path, that brings to peace, for through judg- ments we are brought to be redeemed from the world and all the enjoyments thereof. On the 17th we were at the Grove meeting, where the overflowings of the divine love was known, to the fupport and refrefhment of us alL Next day attended Bradford meeting, which was large, and we were favoured therein; though many hard things were delivered, yet the divine hand was near and fupported me. I was unwell ( 2° ) while here, anddbecame much .difcouraged, led 1 fhould not be able to go^through this journey; but being encouraged by fome of my friends, and the goodnefs of God being graciouily af- forded, it looked as nothing before me, bieffed be his holy name. On the 19th we went to Birmingham meeting, where it pleafed Divine Goodnefs to open of his myfteries; may my heart ever be thankful to him, who opens the fprings in the w T i!dernefs. We went after meet- ing to Charles Dilworth's, and I being much fpeut, laid down and was revived again, and we had a favoured time in the family. We then rode three miles to Micajah Speekman's and lodged. Next day we went to Concord meet- ing, which was to me a good one, and being favoured to have the love of my .brethern, it was a great comfort to me, in my trymg jour- ney : this was-p bl effing I have often prayed for,. from my great Lord and Rewarder.of all thole ' who diligently feek him, who can fay they fought it not in vain. We then went to Phi- ladelpiha. to attend the yearly meeting which began the 2 1(1, for minifters and elders, and was a\ bieffed meeting. On firft-day I attended meeting in the fore and afternoon, alfo in the evening, which were moflly favoured feafons, as- were the feveral fittings of the yearly meet- ing, all which I was favoured to attend, much to my comfort and encouragement. Having been confined feveral days in Phila- delphia with a bad cold, until fecond-day, 30th ( ** ) of gth month, I then attended the felect meeting, where we were comforted together, and on the j (I of ioth month my efieemed friend Hannah n Fofter from New-Jerfey, accompanying me, we left Philadelphia, and taking Chefter meeting, we were favoured with divine affiftance therein, and came to Wilmington and lodged at David Ferris's, who was gone to New-England with SamuelNeal, on a religious vifit; but oh! the difcouragement I was under at times, which made me cry in my heart to God, that he would ilrengthen me, more and more to give up to his jvviil: I was low in bodily health, and my fpirits feemed to fink w r ithin me, notwithstanding I have been ftrengthened day by day; I have reafon to blefs my God, and fay in truth it is marvellous, he is the Lord and will do all things for them that put their truft in him j he weans from hufband and children, houfe and land, for his name's fake, and thefe (hall receive, an hundred fold : nothing lefs than the love of God and his peace in our minds, enables us to fubmit; and when I behold the goodnefs of the Almighty, I am encouraged to invite all to come, tafte, and fee how good the Lord is. On the 4th we went to John Churchman's at Notting- ham, and attended monthly meeting; and the fixth and feventh days following, the yearly meeting, which w r as to our comfort. On the 8th of ioth month we rode eighteen miles to the houfe of one, not belonging to Friends, and many pebple coming, I was comforted in an C « ) opportunity with them, and tfiquglit the Lord heard my prayers, and I hope, it will prove of fervice to fome of the Company. Taking Saf- fafras meeting, came to the meeting of miitifcers - and elders at Cecil; but fo poor I felt, that oh! thought I, if my Mailer would only let me re- turn home, pleading that there were many bet- ter qualified for that work than I was, for I feared I fhould difhonour God, and bring grief on all my friends; but in this trial I endea- voured after ftillnefs, and was inwardly com- forted, and brought to fay as Peter did, V not only wafh my feet, but my hands and my head alfo." Next day, being firft of the week, we went to meeting again, which was a good meet- ing, and the day following light broke forth in the meeting, in a wonderful manner, to our comfort. On third-day, the 15th, we attended the feleci meeting and I w T as filent until- the men- withdrew, and the women's meeting came on; then my mouth was opened, and it pleafed the Lord ftill to caufe the light more and more to break forth. Oh ! how I felt the love of God to this people, if they would be faithful to what is made known to them. . In our way to the yearly meeting at Chop- tank, we took meetings at Cheiler in Maryland, Queen Ann, and Tuckahoe, and on the 19th, the meeting began at Choptank, where Tinet with Benjamin Sharplds of Philadelphia, who had fhewn me much kindneis: the meetings were large, and fbme good testimonies were ( jfc' ) borne; but my lot was moftly hi fullering and oppreilion: at the conclufion of the bulinefs, the men's and women's meetings being re- queued to come together, the labours of John Churchman and Thomas Carlton were reviv- ing, and the meeting broke up in a folid man- ner: then the meeting for minifters and elders fat, which ended this meeting well, and made my heart rejoice, for I had fome fears left it (hould not be performed to the honour of God; how often does he crown our affemblies to his own honour. At times, when I view the fer- vice I am engaged in, my heart is heavy and even finks within me. The 24th, we went to the bay, twenty miles from Choptank j it was a-heavy day, but my friends endeavoured to comfort me. On the 25th, we croffed the great bay of Chefapeak which made us fick, Robert Pleafants of Virginia was with us; we landed at Thomas Norris's, where we were received kindly, and after dinner croffed the river in a little row-boat and landed at Hannah Thomas's, a widow, wherein I had reafon to be thankful to the Lord for his many favours; but my fpirit was much oppreffed, perhaps on my own account. On firft day of the week we attended meeting at Weft River, which was a trying time; but it pleafed the Lord to caufe his love to be felt. We w 7 ent from thence about thirteen miles, and had a meeting, wherein the love of God feemed to own us : we then took our leave of Patuxent ( 2 4 ) river, and rode twelve miles to the head of White -Hall; and on the 29th went to Indian Spring, where fuch were my exercifes that I was ready to fay, " Oh that mine head was water and mine eyes a fountain of tears," that I might mourn for myfelf, feeing none of the Lord's fervants fo wanting as I was; but it pleafed the Father of all our mercies to own us, and it proved a good time. We then went to the houfe of an aged widow woman, who appearing in coftly attire, and feeing her poor black fervants about her, caufed me manv ferious refle&ions. Here we took leave of Robert Pleafants,who had been with us almoft a week. Thence we rode eleven miles to a friend's houfe, where, although they were very kind to us, I was much grieved to fee their poor black fervants fare fo hard. The 30th we rode two miles and had a meeting, which though a low time to both myfelf and companion, yet it pleafed the Lord to open a door of light, fo far, that we were enabled to. open our mouths, and fome of the people feemed to be affected; oh! that God may always have the praife, for I had no other to put my trufi in, and being a ftranger in thefe parts, my mind was led into fympathy with my fellow travellers, for what they often have to pafs through. On the 31ft we had a meeting at Elkridge, nineteen miles, which proved a comfortable time, wherein I had rea- fon to bow my fpirit to the God of all our mer- ries, who was pleafed to own fo poor a child as f 25 ) I was; ray voice was lifted up to fupplicate his name, in that he had not forgotten his children, who are often panting for his favour. After which we went to Baltimore^ and the 1 ft of nth month rode fixteen miles to a meet- ing of minifters and elders, wherein fome good testimonies were borne, with which I had good unity. On the 2d, we XCetn to Gunpowder meeting, and although the dragon laboured to deftroy the young child, yet it pleafed the Lord to caufe his light and power to break throng!: all, and a blefled meetin| it proved, wherein, we had reafon to biffs the name of the great Lord and Mafter of affemblies: I felt my fpirk helped in this conflict tvith the enemy, by a worthy Friend/ Ann Moore. Though we may praife the Lord for his eminent goodnefs; yet I hardly dare rejoice, feeing the battle is hrs. and may my foul ever remember humbly to a > knowledge, that he is all 13 all to his depend- ing children. In the evening we had a comfort- able time in the family of our friend Oliver Matthews, where we lodged. The 3d, bring firft of the week, we went again to Gunpowder meeting, and it pleafed the Lord to open the fprings of life, and favour us with his prefence; but fatan endeavoured to fuggeft to me/ that I had wounded my brethren, and I grieved in fpirit until it pleafed the Father of mercies ro arife, and gave ftrength to fay, let all things praife the Lord; let fun, moon, and ftars, praife the Lord, for his mercy endufeth for ever, c ( ^ ) Next;day had a precious meeting at Patapfco, wherein ' I was thankful to the Lord : on our journey in the afternoon, we were fome time loft in' the woods; but finding a -houfc in the field, a man was fent to fhow us the way to Benkid Wilfon's; it being; night, I appre- hended we fhould have to lodge in the woods this night; but I enjoyed more peace of mind upon that reflexion, than 1 fhould in fome houfes that were filled with fiaves, for it wounds me more than many other evite, to fee them keep a large number of them in bondage, making them work hard, and paying them no wages — ; Oh ! the cruelty thefe poor creatures are ufed with, often excites my compaffion. On the 5th, we went feven miles to meeting at Little Falls, where mod prefent had fiaves, and darknefs feemed to cover the whole meeting for a time, my companion fitting under the fame weight and feeling fenfe of Egyptian darknefs with myfelf ; at laft it pleafed the great Lord and Matter to open her mouth in a few words, which opened a door for my exercifed mind, in the love of the Gofpel, to labour with my fellow-creatures, and efpecially with my breth-. ren in profeflion, that had fome enlightenings of the w r ork of God, and my companion con- cluded the meeting in. powerful fupplication. - After dinner, we rode eight miles to Ifaac Webfter's and lodged ; after I retired to bed my mind was turned to the Lord in heavenly fweetuefs, and all on % earth was drawn out of; ( *7 ) light, and there was nothing interrupted this precious favour for a time, and my companion being -engaged in conversation with a friend, my filence was fo fweet, I chofe rather to enjoy that fpring that makes glad the whole city of GodV On tlie 1 6th, we rode one mile to Bufh River, where my companion bore a fwcet tefiimony, and I was.filent: after meeting, dining in a friend's houfe, we had an opportunity in the family, and though it was a trying time to me, my companion was favoured in fupplication. We then rode (even miles to William Cox's and lodged. On the 7th we went to Deer Creek meeting; afternoon being overtaken by a ftorm, as we rode in the rain, I thought if I brought no difhonour to God and his truth, there was no hardfhip but what I could endure in the rain and the darknefs of the night; we at length reached a Friend's houfe; but oh! the black people, how does their flavery wound my fpirit within me. — Oh! that people were wife, that they would confider their latter end. Next day being a hard rain ftorm, we rode three miles to a little meeting at Deer Creek Barrens; the people were glad to fee us, and I felt comforted in being with them. Thence we went in a fnow ftorm over the fteep mountain, and'pafied two rivers, where our horfes almoft fwam; we had reafon to believe the Almighty hand- was with us ami fupported us ; we lodged at William Smith's, who was not a Friend, he G 2. ( t$ ) received us very kindly, and in rhe morning, on our offering to pay for our kind entertain- ment, he refufed, and dcfired if we travelled any where near him again, not to mifs his houfe ; I acknowledged his kindnefs. We rode on to Gunpowder and lodged at Walter Moore's, who is hufband to Ann Moore; and on ftrft- day the ioth, attended meeting, wherein I felt the love of God towards the people, which fprung up and Ipread itfelf in my heart to that degree, that I was humbled under the confe- deration o£ his enabling me to become as a founding trumpet in his hand, who trieth the heart and reins of his children, who fuffers them to be caft down, and raifes them up again, that they may know his ftrength and power, and return honour to his name, who is worthy of all praife, might and dominion* for ever. After this, we continued our journey, taking meetings at Patapfco, Forreft, and Bu(h Creek, and one at a Friend's houfe, to good fatisfac- tion; *md on firft-day the 17th, were at meet- ing at Fairfax, where divine goodnefs fpread over the affembly to our comfort. The next day we croffed the Potomack river, and had a precious meeting at the Gap, and another at Goofe Creek, wherein the fprings of life were gracioufly opened, and the divine power (hook the earthly minds, and my dejar companion doled the meeting in fiipplication, to our mu- tual comfort. Then taking meetings at South Fork, Crooked Run, accompanied by John Hough j we came to Elizabeth Jolliff's, where I received a letter from my dear hufband, giv- ing an account of the death of one of our chil- dren, alfo one from John Pemberton, which was a comfort to me in my trial. On the 24th, being firft of the week, we had a good meeting at Hopewell.' Next day we. parted with John Hough, who had been very kind to us, and went to Mill Creek meeting, where we were favoured with a good rime, for I thought the good hand was at, work with the people, and I do wifh their minds may be drawn to true inward fiience: we rode back to Eliza- beth JolliiPs and lodged, where my mind was very clofely tried, as it was alfo next day at Back Creek meeting; but being comforted in the labours of my companion, and enabled mv felf, though in much weaknefs of fpirit, the power of truth arofe, to the fhaking the earth- ly minds, and to the comforting the true kcd. On the 26th, after an open fausfadtory meet- ing at John Fawfett's, I parted with my dear companion Hannah Fofter, and being joined by my dear friend Sidney Wright, we rode .thirty - iix miles to a meeting, on the 28th, at Jackfon Allen's, which was to cur comfort;, after which, riding twenty miles; we lodged at an inn, where was a rude company, and we got but little fleep. Next day rode forty-five miles and lodged at another inn, kept by "a widow- ■who was very kind to us. The ifi of 12th month, firft of the week, c 3 ( 3° ) we rode ten miles to Jofeph Douglafs's, at the fouth-weft mountain, and had a good meeting at his houfe, where it pleafed the Lord to fa- vour us poor travellers, to the praife of his great name. Then taking meetings at Camp Creek, Fork Creek, and Genito, croffed James River, after cutting the ice; and on the 7th reached John Johnfon's, muchf weary, having had a cold fhow-ftorm; after taking fome re- frefhment we refled well; may my fpirit be humbled, under that fupporting hand that hath preferved us through fo many dangers. ,Fir(fc- day, being the 8th, we went to Emato meeting, where was a rude company ; but it pleafed God to caufe his power to fpread over the company, to the praife of his name. On the 9th and iath w r e rode feventy miles to M. TirePs, at Bed- ford, where we met with Zacharias Dicks and John Carter, who had been fick at this houfe* On the 1 2th I arofe with much fear and trem- bling of heart, which caufed my fpirit to bow in a filent travail as I went to meeting at Bed- ford, where we were highly favoured; may my fpirit humbly bow in acknowledgment to the jMafterof our afTemblies. Then taking two or three meetings in, the way, came into North Carolina, and on the 17th had a meeting at Ano, where were a few people; but it pleafed the Almighty to favour us together. On the silt we went to the Spring meeting, where I was tried in mind, fo that I was ready to fay i vhat did I come here for? but as I fat in po- ( 3i ) verty of fpirit, I felt love to fpread over the meeting, and the Lord favoured us, to our comfort and peaee. 2td, being firil-day, we rode feven miles to* Cane Creek meeting, where the merciful hand bore us up. Next day rode thirty miles and ferried over Deep River, which was the mod dangerous I thought I had ever crofted. On the 24th we croffed the River again, and attended meeting, where I was brought low m my mmd, but light broke through and I was -comforted r afcermeeting we rode twelve miJesto Mary Dixon's and lodged: m the evening we were comforted-, in a religious opportunity in the family. Next morning went twelve miles to Rocky River meeting, and a powerful meeting it was; may my fpirit bow 13 ihe God of all our mercies, and return unto him thankfgiving and praife, which is due to him alone. Taking meetings at Holly Spring and Polecat, we came to New-Garden monthly meeting, on the 28th ; and next day, being firft of the* week, we had a precious meeting there, wherein I was much concerned, that our pre- cious Mailer might crown our affembiies; then can we rightly return thanks to his great and worthy name. Thence calling to dine with Sarah Hunt, wife of William Hunt, now gone on a religious vifit to Friends in Europe, we came on- the 30th to Center meeting, which was a feeling time. Next day were at Mordicas meeting, where I fat under much poverty of Xpirit, and my companion was much favoured c m > ih teffimony, and feeling a little to deliver myfelf we had a pleafant time.. ift month ift, 1772, attended Deep River meeting, which was filent to us. Next day fet out for South-Carolina, rode forty miles to Saliibury, and the day followiig. forty more to Charlottetown, where there was a rude com- pany collected for a dance at the court-lioufe, who had befpoke all the lodgings,, but being;; furnifhed with a chaff bed by the fire, I relied well, and my heart was thankful, to lee all things made eafy to me. Next day, after riding thirty-three miles, we had only the floor to lie upon, where we gained fome reft. On the 5th we rode thirty miles to Broad River, and croffing the ferry, rode four miles to Martha Hollingfw-orth's.a Friend who kindly entertained us. Next day we attended Broad River meet- ing, and the day following at Tigo River, which river we croffed in a canoe; and on the 8th had a meeting a Perget's Creek, which was a time of refrefhment ; thanks to the Lord for his . favours. On the 9th we fet off for Bufh River, and riding down to Enoree River, it was very, high, but we ventured in, and found it fo deep that we wet our feet in croffing; then rode to Indian Creek, which proved (till deeper, but the men falling three trees acrofs led us over, and fwam the horfes through ; riding a little further, we came to another river which looked more dangerous than any we had paffed; and ven- turing in, our horfes almoft fwam, but we got C 33 ) "well over though with wet feet, and alfo wet- ting all our clothes iti the faddle bags; this day we crofTed four rivers and rode thirty miles. On the 12th, being firit day of the week, rode iive miles to Bufli River meeting, in much po- verty of fpirit, being bowed to the honour of God; and it pleafed him to open a living tefti- mony, to the refrefhment'of my drooping foul. About this time I was under a deep exerdfe of mind, to go as far as Georgia, and laid it before my dear companion Sidney Wright, alfo our kind affiftant Andrew M'Ray, he having been with me near two months, and (hewed much kindnefs to us ; but coming near the place from which we were to fet out for Georgia, he told me after weighing the matter, he could not then fee he could go; I told him he had been very kind to us, and I was thankful to him for his affiftance, but having parted with all I had near and dear to me, for the fake of inward peace, Imuft alfo part with him, if I found it my duty (till to go. But oh! how I did pour out my fpirit before the Lord, with defires to be excufed; but the more I laboured therefor, the more clearly I faw it my duty, to ftand refigned to the fervice, and I found if I was not faithful therein, I fhould fuftain a great lofs; which brought my fpirit to bow to him that he might pleafe to open a door, and make way for me in this pinching time, and then the Lord's will fhould be my will; but withal it arofe in my mind, why fhould i go where no oilier Friends. ( 34 ) had gone before me ? it was faid to me, " what if he tarry till I come what is that to thee? fol- low thou me;" which raifed my drooping fpirits to refign all to his will, if the Lord would only make me like his beloved difciple, to lean upon his bread. And when I discovered my mind to Andrew again, he was willing to go, and endeavoured to encourage me to fetout cheer- fully, which we did, accompanied by Mary Babb, Francis Janes and William Thatcher. On the 1 3th we rode twenty miles to Jofeph Hollingfworth's, and had a precious meeting in the dwelling-houfe, feeling the father's love in this remote part of the earth: thence feven miles and lodged at Jofeph Ball's. On the 14th rode ten miles to RobbinV Creek, and had another meeting, and returning to Jofeph Ball's loft our way and rode through many dangerous places ; but reached our lodgings about eight o'clock. • On the 15th parting with my com- panion Sidney Wright, who concluded to tarry with her relations, we rode nineteen miles to Saluda river, and croffed at Cannon's ferry,, and going twelve miles further, were kindly entertained at an inn. Next day we rode forty- four miles to Savannah, and on the 17th crof* iing the river, landed in Georgia; then rode 12 miles to Ifaac Loe's, where we procured fome refrefhment, and they refufing our money there- for, we acknowledged their kindnefs, and my heart was made thankful to the Almighty, that h§ fhould open the hearts cf ftrangers, to receive X 35 ) fo poor and unworthy a creature as I was; thence going ten miles further came to John Sill's, a Friend's houfe, where we lodged; and on the 1 8th went to meeting in Georgia, and had highly favored opportunities. I thought this was the very place I had long feen, even when I was at home; may my foul bow down, as it were with my face to. the earth, and give honour to the Lord alone, who giveth to man an underftanding; he made me to feel the ex~ ercifes of my brethren, my fpirit often breathed to them before I left home, and it feemed to me, that it was in the furthermoft parts of my journey, and it proved fo. Oh! with humble joy do I return thanks to my God ! can I regret any pains I have taken for fo great a reward? 1 could add much more of the goodnefs of the Lord to me at this time; but I defire caution, left I fhould go too far in revealing the many mercies that God bellowed uponia unworthy a fervant as at times I feel myfelf. After meeting we went to Jofeph Maddock's and lodged. On the 19th, and firft of the week, we attended another meeting in this place, and a moft pre- cious time it was; I thought the. Lord opened a door and alfo comforted my drooping fpirit, and (hewed me this was the place I faw before, I left home, and Friends there thought fo too, for they had been in much grief in this place; may my foul continually bow in humility, and return to my God feven fold of praife, who re- vealed his will to me, and encouraged and re- ( 36 ) warded me; for he alone preferved me from all d angers. The 20th we fet off to leave Georgia with much peace of mind, and joy of heart: Oh! what it is to be faithful to the manifefta- tions of divine openings, it is what will give the anfwer of " Well done good and faithful fer- vant, enter into the joy of thy Lord/' Riding thirty-five miles, croffed Savannah river, at Hammon's ferry, and flopped at a fmall houfe without a floor, where they gave us fome hulks to lay upon, and with my faddle for a pillow I was favoured to go to fleep, and refted well. Next day after (topping at an inn for fome re- frefhment, we rode oh till feeling very fleepy we (topped and laid down upon the ground, and I foon fell aileep and felt refrefhed : then came to an inn, where we were civilly en- tertained, and obtained a bed and blanket to lodge upon. On the 2 2d rode thirty-nine miles, and 23d twelve miles further, to the ferry at Saluda river, where I parted with my friend Mary Babb, fhe returning home; we then came on to Thomas Pugh's, twelve miles, and lodged. Next day attended preparative meeting at Bufn river, which was an open time, the fenfe of the meeting, being fenfibly felt to our comfort ; may the Almighty Prote&or of his depending children, have the honour of his own works; who alone is worthy of all. 25th, we rode towards Wateree, thirty miles, and croffed two rivers. Next morning rifing before day, rode eight miles before fun-rife, and in ( 37 ) the courfe of our journey, through this wil- dernefs, being weary I Jay down upon the ground and flept a litde; and after travelling forty-fix miles this day, came to John Colley's, a Friend's houfe and lodged, where we were kindly received. 26th, being firft of the week, we went to Limetree, crofting the river Wate- ree, and attended two meetings. Next day being ftormy we refted, and being invited to breakfaft with one not a Friend, who had been at meeting the afternoon before, we went ard were very kindly treated by him. The two following days we rode feventy-eight miles, and croffed Pedee river, and lodged at William Heily's, and had a meeting next day at his houfe* 31ft, my mind was much turned home, with de- fires that the Lord would protect them, and my bowels moved towards my dear hufband and children ; but I was comforted with thefe words, " I will tend them for thee;" fo I was willing that fo gracious a Matter fhould take care of them, for fo poor a:n inftrument as I was in his hand, for in much poverty of fpirit I travailed many times,* in which I was brought' to fay, oh } Lord I am afraid I (hall deny thee. On the 1 ft of 2d month we fet off for Gear's Creek, and rode forty miles, and lodged at a poor little cabin as they called it; the next day though I was poorly with a giddinefs in my head, we rode twenty-feven miles; anion firft- day had a meeting at Campbelttown in the court-houfe ; but religion is very low in this D I 3S ) •place. Next day fet out for Cape Fear; hav- ing no guide, through the wildernefs, we palled feveral rivers with fome danger, and in a hard ram, and my companion was much unwell; on the 5th we reached Richard Cox's after a fa- tiguing journey; but the Lord was underneath, fo that I could fay great is the Lord, and greatly to be praifed is his holy name : for it was he alone who cared for us through fo many dan- gers, both inwardly and outwardly. Oh my foul ! may eft thou be faithful to the inward revelation, for that brings peace of mind ; how often w T ould my nature have flinched, but the hand of God would draw near, and caufe me to tremble, fo that I was enabled to fay, thy will O Lord (hall be my will and my guide, if thou wilt give me ftrength to perform thy work to thine honour, if I have only bread to eat and water to drink and raiment to put on, fo that 1 return in peace to my family and friends, whom I love in the Lord, and he knoweth that my fpirit is humbled in defires, that I may bring no ftain upon the blef- fed truth. It is thou, O Lord! that hall made the truth near to me /as my life, thou art a huf- band indeed, and a gracious father, to fupport in all trials thy poor depending children, who are under thy preparing hand, that they may fay in their hearts, in fmcerity and truth, thy will be done. On the 7th w r e had a meeting at Jofhua Davis's, and going thirteen miles fur- ther, lodged at the houfe of one not in profef- fion with us j where we were kindly entertained. ( 39 ) I have often thought it was the Lord, that gave us favour among the people, and may he have the honour of all his works, who caufeth my cup to overflow by his power at this time. 8th we rode thirty-one miles to Tar River, which we croffed in a canoe, fwhuming our horfes over. How often is the dread of the Father of mercies, influencing my mind, to write in much trembling, of my fecret exercifes; I am at times afraid to write, and afraid to omit it, but I find my mind eaiy in writing what I have here inferted. We lodged at Henry Horn's, and next day being ift of the week, had a good meeting in his houfej here my-horfe. failing me, in a fhort time died, and being provided with another, .we fet out for Northampton, and crof- fed Roanoke, and one other river that appeared dangerous ; we reached, in the evening Thomas Knox's, where my companion was taken fo ill, that though much ftraitened in mind at the thought of leaving her, I went to meeting at Richfquare, without her, in much poverty of fpirit, but it pleafed the Lord to open the fpring of life, to the comforting of my drooping mind, i 2th, leaving my companion dill weak and being accompanied by Thomas Wright and wife, we went five miles to Thomas Copeland's, and feel- ing a concern to have a religious opportunity in the family, we were much favoured to- gether. Next day, going thirty-five miles, had a precious meeting at Piny Woods; the Lord ftill confirming his figns to my poor foul, before D 2 ( 40 ) 1 left home, that I might have that feeling feme of the unity of my brethren, when I was fo far feparated from them, that runs from veflel to veffel, and which unites in the onenefs, to the one God and Father of us all. Firft-day, 1 6th, were at meeting at Wells, where it pleafed the Lord to open the fprings of life, to the relief of my mind. 17th, went to Old Neck meeting, where was a funeral of a friend and her child, fhe dying in child-bed; here we met with Timothy Davis and Benjamin Jones, and had a favoured meeting together; taking leave of them, we were at Little River, at Simmon's Creek meeting, where it pleafed God to feed us with heavenly food, to the comforting of my foul. I have reafon to be thankful to the Lord who bringeth down and fetteth up again, to his own giory. After meeting, I received a fatif- faftory letter from my dear hufband. Taking meetings at Newbegan Creek and one at the houfe of Abel Trueblood, we came to Thomas Newbey's, where I was comforted in meeting with my companion, and 23d, being firft of the week, attended Piny "Woods meeting. On 54th, fet off for Virginia, being accompanied by jofiah Gordon and Jofiah White. We attended meetings at Summerton, Weftern Branch, and alfo at the houfe of Elizabeth Denifons. Oh! the forrow I felt at times, my fpirit being much oppreffed, feeing none in fuch want as myfelf; oh, thought I, why was- fo poor a mortal as I am, fent on fo great a work, indeed a worm and ( ftf> ) no man ; great are the fufferings now-a-days, for the feed lays low, and the Lord's children mud go low to feel it. Then taking meetings at Black Creek, James Stanton's, Black water, Barrigh and Gravel Run ; lodged at Edward Stabler's ; and 5th of 3d month he and his wife, accompanied us on our way to Curies, in Virginia, and meeting again with T. Davis and B. Jones, attended two meetings at White Oak Swamp. On the 9th, being the fecond day after parting with them, came to Black Creek meeting, which was a moil powerful time, to the fhaking the earthly mind in many prefent. Then taking meetings at the Swamp and Cedar Creek, on the 13th we came to Robert Painter's, where I parted with Andrew M'Ray, who had been near four months with us, in much kindnefs and attention, and fuffered much with us, on account of the poor black fervantvwkh which many parts of this country abound. Here I alfo parted withmy dear friend Sidney Wright, in much love, who had alio been with me near four months. On the 14th, being firft of the week, we were favoured with a precious meeting at Suffolk, in the afternoon, and next day rode fixty-five miles, to Mahlon Janney's; and 16th, fet off for Philadelphia, which city I reached on the 20th, where I met with many friends, w r ho feemed glad to fee me again. Next day I went to the meeting for minifters and elders, where were many good testimonies borne; but I was. D 3 ( 42 ) filent, with defires to wait the Lord's time. 22d, being firft of the week, I attended three meetings in High-Street meeting-houfe; and 23d the half year's meeting of minifters and elders, and next day at the Bank meeting, in all which I was filent, and deeply pained in mind. 24th, I went to the feleft meeting, and the Lord made way forme, and eafedmy pained mind, and we had a precious time. 1 was alfo at meeting on the 26th, and their monthly meeting on the 27th, which was a good meet- ing; and 29th, being firft of the week, I went to High-ftreet meeting three times, which were all good meetings. I tarried in the city, until the 13th of 4th month, attending meetings as they came in courfe, many times under deep tryings and provings, and in great fear and trembling ; my faith feemed almoft ready to fail me; but bleffed be the name of the Lord, his hand was near to preferve my truft in him through all the buf- ferings of fatan; and he at times gave me a little of the balm of Gilead, that comforted my drooping fpirit. On the 24th, 1 attended Wood- bury meeting in much poverty of fpirit; but we were favoured together; may my heart be thankful to the Lord for all his mercies, bleffed be his holy name. That night I lodged at William Key's^ a kinfman of' mine. Then raking meetings at Greenwich, Piles-Grove, Alloways Creek ; my mind was under deep ex- ereifc, and at times I thought that all good was ( 43 ) fcparated from me; but I was enabled to cry to< the Lord, that he would once more give ftrength to overcome the world, and all the fears of it; that fo, I might praife his great name- 18th, being firfl: of the week, was at Salem meeting, which though exercifmg, the Lord made way for me, and on the 20th had an open; time at Lower Greenwich meeting, the Lord I found to be my helper, in all my trials, blefled be his name. I then parted with Stephen Comfort and James Moore, who had been with us a week. Next day went on for Cape May, rode forty-three miles and lodged at J. Townfend's, where my exercife was very great, and I faw no other way for me, but that I muft return to Philadelphia again, which was no fmall trial; but being defirous to be given up to the re- quirings of the Lord^ the prayers of my heart were to him, for ftrength to perform all things he fhould require, of fo poor unworthy a crea- ture as I was. However, I went to meeting and a laborious time it was; I often faid in my heart, by whom fhali Jacob arife, for he rs fmall; at length my companion arofe with a few words, which were lively, and then I felt itrength to arife, and an, open time we had; which I hope will prove of fervice, to all that were prefent. May it be remembered, how 'the Lord fupported me through all my trials; my heart is filled with his goodnefs, and I know he will not be wanting on his part, fo that if we mifs our way, it muft be our own fault; oh! ( 44 ) his gracious hand hath been with me all my life long, I fee he is ftill with me; bleffed be the name of my God, I rejoice that he liveth in me, and that 1 am made to praife him, who alone is worthy of all praife. 23d, we w T ent to the lower meeting at Great Egg Harbour, and had an open time, it pleafed the Lord more and more to confirm me, that I was in the way of my duty, and that I mud return to fome places where I had not been enough faithful. Oh the fears I paired through are inexpreflible : but the Lord is true, he will raife his power higher and higher, until he maketh his power to reign over us, if we are given up to cry for ftrength, even to laying down our lives if required. Thefe are great fayings \ but there are fome of his children brought to know peace of mind with him, which, is all we want ; and what is my life, if it be in difobedience, compared with eternity and the love we owe to him, who loved us, before we loved him, and hath done fo much for us ; he is complete in himfelf without us. Oh! indeed can my fpirit fay, What is man that thou art mindful of him, or the fon of man that thou vifiteft him? thou haft, placed us a -little lower than the angels, and made us to fee thy wonderous works, which are paft finding out by us, as men and creatures, in our own abili- ties. 24th, we were at Upper Egg Harbour meeting, where the truth gained the vi&ory. 26th, firft day of the week, we went to meeting at Little Egg Harbour, which was a very goad ( 45 ) opportunity, may my fpirit bow down to him who opened the way for me. Next day went toBarrington meeting, eleven miles, and divine favour feemed to be like a fhower upon us ; blefled be his name who was thus merciful to us. 28th, we fet out for Philadelphia, and rode forty-four miles to Jofiah White's, in whofe inftru&ive company, I was comforted in the trial I was in, on account of my going back to the city; may the Lord remember me, and fupply me with patience and refignation to his will, then all will be well with me, here and hereafter. Next day was at their week-day meeting and was thankful in feeling the conde- fcenfion of my God. 20th, had an open fa- tisfa&ory meeting at Burlington; oh may my fpirit and all that is within me, bow low as in the duft, and acknowledge the many mercies of God: my cup overfloweth in him alone, that hath (hewn forth his ftrength once more to my diftrefifed heart, that has at times been filled with fears, left I had loft fight of him. Af- ternoon, parting with my dear companion Rebecca Wright, to whom my fpirit was made near, George Dillwyn took me in a chaiie to Philadelphia, to John Pemberton's, where I lod^bd; but oh the fears that attended my mind — oh Lord once more fupport me, for I have only thee to pleafe ; when I was here before, I delivered up my body but not my heart fully to thee; but now I fee 1 muft de- liver up all to thine hand, for obedience is ( 46 ) better than facrifice, and to hearken to thy voice, than the fat of all the land; therefore, I pray thee, give me abiliiy to ferve thee with a fincere heart, and an upright mind. 2d of 5th month, I went to the felect meet- ing, in the city, and the Lord gave me fome ftrength to perform his will, for the will of man never wrought the righteoufnefs of God: but the will of God, is the righteoufnefs of our poor fouls. Next day being firil-day, I went to Pine Street meeting, wherein a degree of light broke forth, and I felt love (till to increafe in me, to the caufe of truth. In the afternoon, went to the Bank meeting, where I fat under much exercife, thinking with the apoftle, oh wretched man that I am, who fhall deliver me from this body of death? but trailing in the Lord for ftrength, I arofe in much love, and was carried through to my relief: and in the evening meet- ing I (till felt a concern to be inwardly cleanfed; knowing that without that my preaching would be in vain, and under a weight of fpirit 1 arofe, without a word in my mouth, and after (landing a while in much poverty, my mouth was opened with thefe words ; Lord help all .thofe weak ones, who are bowed before thee ; and it pleafed the God and Father of all our mercies to own me, a poor drooping and unworthy child, and the meeting ended in a folid manner, my heart being filled with praife to him alone, who worketh miracles in his poor depending chil- dren, at times. The next day was their quar- ( 47 ) terly meeting, in which I was filent; but many good teftirrionies were borne, which were fweet to my tafte. After meeting my mind felt deeply opprefled, and I often cried in fecret, Lord give me ftrength; and I went to bed with this lan- guage, and rofe with the fame, Lord give me ftrength, and enable me to do thy will, be it in ever fo broken a manner. I alfo attended the youth's meeting, and was much favoured in fupplication, and after another Friend had fpoken, I was favoured to eafe my mind, and my heart was filled with joy and gladnefs, to the ever blefled God, who had in divers man- ners, fpoken to my poor foul: living praifes to the God and Father of all our mercies, may thou my foul, humble thyfelf before him. On the 10th I went to Germantown meet- ing, accompanied by Margaret Norton, who is a fweet fpirited woman, and could bear a part with me in my exercises; but the Lord is our dependance. After meeting dined at John Jones's, and had a fweet time in the family. Next day going to Abbington meeting, as I came near the houfe, I was made to remember what the inward voice faid to me many years pad; What is thy petition or requeft and it Ihall be given thee? to ferve thee in the valley of humiliation of mind, even to ferve thee the Lord: and I thought if the Lord would but grant me this to day, I would afk'no more; and it was a moft precious feafon indeed. We then took meetings at Fanhill, Ghefter, Wilmington, ( 43 ) and Concord, which were all favoured oppor- tunities, and returned to Philadelphia. — 12th and 13th attended the meeting held once a quarter for the* black people. Next day went fifteen miles to Radnor meeting, in much po- verty of fpirit; but the Lord caufed a morfel of bread to be given us, and my heart was made thankful and joyful to the Lord, that he had given me ftrengrh day by day, to go through fo great a fervice without more forrow to the outward. On the 15th we left Philadelphia, and went to Wilmington, and lodged at David Ferris's, and was at their meeting the firft-day following, and then went on for Choptank, where we had a precious meeting, as likewife another on Bay fide, wherein I was much fa- voured in application; oh may my fpirit bow down under a fenfe of the goodnefs of the Lord, and fit in the gate of humiliation for renewed ftrength, to bring up memorials as out of the bottom of Jordan. Oh thou, who was as a pillar of a cloud by day, and a pillar of fire by night, that thou wouldfl not fuifer my poor fainting foul to fall by the way; but heal all my infir- mities, and build me up to thyfelf, that I may once more know that thou art a God hearing prayer, that my fervice may be accepted by thee, and leave a fweet favour behind me, when thou releafeft irfe to return home; that the honour of thy truth may have the vi&ory, in going home as well as coming out, for there was nothing could prevail againfl thee: oh, C 49 ) how did the mountains melt down to thy honour, and it was marvellous in my fight, and I was brought upon the banks of deliverance: now Lord, I pray thee, remember me for thy truth's fake, and let me return in like manner, that I may be enabled to fay, thou waft my Alpha and Omega, my firft and my laft, the Lord blef* fed for ever and ever. We then took meetings at ThircJ Haven, Marfhy Creek, Cold Spring, Three Runs, Mother Kill, Little Creek, and Duck Creek, moftly favoured opportunities. In the laft meeting, while I Was fpeaking, I found it my duty to obferve, that there were prefent that difdained what I faid, and that among the young women: after meeting, I found my companion had feen a woman laugh, and thought I had feen her, which occauoned my remark ; but I had not feen any fuch conduft, but w T as glad that I had been made faithful to the openings in my mind; for when it firft appeared 1 put it from me, thinking I had ftood long enough; but I was not clear without mentioning it, which was to my comfort and peace of mind. The 30th, w r ent to George Creek meeting which wasni precious feeling time; blefiedbe my gra- cious Mafter who having called me from my home, to labour in his vineyard, now gave me to feel, that my fcrvice in this journey was nearly accomplished. We then returned to Wilmington, with my efteemed friend Ziba Ferris, to his houfe, he E ( 50 ) having been with me two weeks; and after tak- ing their two meetings on firft-day, returned to Philadelphia ; and having been much favoured in my laft viiit in this city, I left it on the fame day; but afterwards felt fome fears that I had given back in the day of battle, left the truth fliould lofe ground: lodging at James Thornton's, I went next day to Nathan Wright's, and the day following was at Chefterfield meet- ing, which was a moll favoured feafon. 7th of 6th month, being firfl of the week, we went to a meeting at Squancum, held in a barn ; rode - fifteen miles, and lodged at Elihu Williams's. Still my concern remained refpefling leaving Philadelphia; fearing I fliould not be clear and feel peace of mind, without going back again, but I feel defirous to be given up to his will in all things; yet finding myfelf weak, as I have been at fome other times, I feel a fear to attend, left I fliould be found denying my Lord, to my great grief, who has vouchfafed his help for my deliverance fo many times : oh that this may fall into the hands of fome, who may be more care- ful and faithful to the moving of divine good- nefs; that it may become their prayer to him alone, for ftrerigtb, for I almoft faint at tunes, becaufe of my unfaithfulnefs ; giving way to the fear of great men, great in the knowledge of divine things, looking upon them to know more than I do : whereby I neglected my Mailer's work, to my forrow, but I know he is a merci- ful God, yet how could I difobey fo gracious a ( 5* ) being, and negleft to do his work; I am wounded within me for fo doing. After writing the fore- going and acknowledging my remiffnefs to his requirings, I found my mind at liberty to pro- ceed homewards. And taking Shrewiburr meeting, came to New York and lodged at Henry Havdocks's, and next day attended their meeting, and was favoured to feel the love ot the heavenly Father: then attended Purchafe and Shappaqua meetings, and though exceeding weak, the Lord appeared to my comfort; praifes to him, who giveth ftrength ib weaknefs: hav- ing had often reafon to remember the goodnefs of God in this journey, how I was brought to go j and caft my body to the earth, and lay my face to the duft, and cry, Lord thy honour I crave more than any other thing, and let my honour be laid in the dull for ever, and oh that it may fo remain with me, to the end of my days. I then proceeded to Amawalk and Peachpond, and had two favoured meetings, and attended meetings alfo at the houfe of Mary Shearman, and at Ofwego, Nine Partners and Oblong, and the firft-day following was again at Oblong meeting; after which was taken very ill, having had an ague fit the day before. While here, two Friends from Sraithfield having accompanied John Sleeper to this place, concluded to wait a day for me, and being a little recruited I fet off" with them, accompanied by Penelope Hull, and though I rode in much weaknefs of body, we reached my brother-in-law Ezekiel Cumftock's E 2 h ( 52 ) in Smithiield, having rode one hundred and twenty-eight miles in three days: where hear- ing my youngeft child lay very lick, next morn- ing being 27th of 6th month, 1772, 1 fet off, and Teached my habitation, twenty-four miles, and found my hufband very poorly, and the child in fome hopes of recovery, but it proved otherwife next day, and twelve days after I got home it died. Oh the various exercifes my fpirit travailed through in this weighty work, yet the Lord de* livered me through them all, and I received the . anfwer of peace: praifes to him alone, in his wifdom he overthrew the horfe and his rider, that proud rider that fought to overthrow Xfrael of old, it labours to deflroy in all ages. The inany fufferings I went through in this journey,, are more than I can relate; how often did I tremble until my joints were ready to fmite to- gether, and many times when alone I laid my body upon the earth, with my face to the ground, and cried to the Lord, to make me as low in all things relating to felf, as I lay then beforehim; but he was pleafed to carry me through, and I fafely returned to my hufband and children, with the reward of peace for a feafon. Oh the peace I received, when 1 lay down on my pillow, and when I arofe- there- from ; may I never grow forgetful how this peace was purchafed. CHAPTER II. Her vifit to Friends in Great-Britain and Ireland. HAVING for a confidefable time had it on my mind to make a religious vifit to Friends in Great-Britain and Ireland, after receiving the concurrence of my friends, and their certificates, on the 29th of the 8th mo. 1783, I took leave of my dear huiband and children, being made willing to part with every near tie, to follow the lamb witherfo- ever he leads 1 with much reverence of heart I left home, begging that the Lord's prefence might Hay with them, and alfo go with me. I firft went to New-London, and croffed over to Long Iiland, having meetings until the 9th month ; then parted with my companions Deborah and Stephen Slead, and the fame day met with David Sands, which was a comfort to me. I w r as enabled to vifit all the meetings on the Iiland, and then proceeded to New-York, and was at meeting there : from thence to* Rahway, and (laid from, fixth to fecond-day morning, and went to Shrewfbury, where I was unwell : went from thence to Squan, and along, fhore to Haddonfield, to their quarterly meeting : after which went to Great Egg- Harbour, James Creffen and Ann Emlen be- ing with me 5 we returned to Philadelphia,. ( 54 ) fpent a little time in having meetings in the neighbourhood of the city, and returned, where I met with my friend Rebecca Wright, of Croflwicks, who was likewife under a con- cern to pay a religious vifit to Europe. We embarked together on the 14th of the 12th month on board the brig Ellwood, William lludgfon, matter, bound for Dublin ; but the wind being unfavourable, we did not fail until the 1 8th; Our companions in the cabin were only two, John Hayworth and Martha Mooney, who, with the Captain, were all of our So* ciety. The weather was dark and cloudy, fo that our profpefi: was rather gloomy, under the weight whereof my mind' was bowed with reverent awe, with the thoughts of launching out on the mighty ocean ; but believing the Lord's providential care is over all his works, the fame by fea as by land, with great foleni- nity 1 was enabled vocally to fupplicate for prefervation, both on my own behalf and thofe around me. I was fea-fick, but was able to w 7 alk about ; the captain and others were very kind to us, but (till my mind was call low, by the thoughts of my awn unfitnefs and great poverty to undertake fuch a journey as this before us ; indeed, the profpeft of fervice ieemed to difappear, and no flrength left in me to open my mouth any more. In the night, foon after our coming to fea, the wind arofe high, at which I got up and went to my companion ; my mind was in a fliort time C 55 ) melted down by the efficacious power of Truth, into refignation ; and a frefli refolution formed to be more faithful, and fubmit to the holy requirings of my Mafter, be it in ever fo Ample or broken a manner ; under a fenfe thereof, it caufed me to kneel down by Rebecca 5 s bed-fide, and call aloud on the great name, full for prefervation, begging for thank- fulnefs for the continuation of his mercies and long forbearance to me a poor unworthy crea- ture. But when we get a little eafe, nature is apt to flinch, and get back again to the centre of indulgence : until a greater ftorm and con- trary wind arofe, the victory was not fufficiently gained over my own ftubborn will j however, it brought me to fearch the foundation of my coming, and to look back on the ground I had been building upon ; glad would the enemy of my happinefs have been to open his mouth and fwallow me up ; but the Lord did not fuffer him fo to prevail, but flilled my mind when I had to remember my being there, was not in my own will, it was in the fear and dread of the living God ; with flrong cries that I may in future truft, love and fear him above the friendfhip of men. Oh my fpirit, how did it long to be like one of the two fons formerly, not the one that faid he would go and went not. I wifh to become more paffive than ever, even to be nailed to the crofs for Chrift's fake. We often had meetings in the cabin, where ( 56 ) fome of the fhip's company would come and fit with us ; Rebecca was fometimes engaged in teftimony as well as myfelf, her's was at- tended with power and a life-giving evidence, that it came from the right fpring ; but be- fore we got on fhore, I felt a concern to have an opportunity in the fhip with the men more at large than we had done before : it. was, I truft, a feafon of favour to us all, however, the refult was peace to my mind. Through the courfe of our voyage, we were often alarmed with dangers, as the weather was frequently rough and ftormy ; yet amidll all, we felt the bed fupport and mercifully to preferve us fafe to land in Waterford, 27th of i.ft mo. 1784. As the wind was not fair for us to reach Dublin, our [friend W. Penrofe foon brought down a carriage to the paf- fage, which is fix miles from the city, and took us to his houfe, where we were hofpitably entertained by him and wife. Both my com- panion and myfelf were fo unwell, that we made a little flop before we proceeded on our journey ; fo vifited fome Friends and the meet- ings in that place. We have thankfully to acknowledge our good Mafter was not forget- ful of us, gracioufly affording ability to labour in his caufe, for which let my foul and all that is within me, bow in humble reverence. 7th of 2d mo. we left Waterford accom- panied by John Davis, his brother Samuel, and fome others, and proceeded for Clonmell, ( 57 ) the diflance being about twenty-five miles, and put up at the houfe of our friend Benjamin Grubb. The next day, being firft of the week, we attended their two meetings, which were pretty large : it was a time of favour and humiliation for the Lord's goodnefs, which endureth for ever ! how matchlefs is his kind- nefs to the revolting children, driving to aroufe them from their beds of eafe, for he willeth not the death of a fmner, but that all fhould return, repent, and live. On the 10th, went in the evening to Garrirone, twelve miles, and attended their week-day meeting : I was filent, and as to myfelf, could feel but little true life of religion. We returned again to Clonmell, and flaid over their province (fix weeks) meet-* ing, held the 14th and 15th inftant. Here we met with our dear friend William Matthews, from America, on a religous vifit. From Clonmell we proceeded towards Cork, but took Garrirone meeting again in our way, which was more open than before. We ar- rived at our worthy friend Samuel Neal's, the 1 9th, about a mile from Cork : my companion being unwell, did not go with me ; it was a comfortable filent meeting. The 2 2d, being firft-day, we both attended meeting, and I truft,_ were enabled to labour honeftly accord- ing to our meafure. In the evening we had a feafon of retirement at our before-mentioned friend's houfe : it was the ufual pra&ice on thofe days, in his family, where many young . ( 58 ) people reforted inftead of fpending their time unprofitably. The next day I felt a draft to go to Bandon, about twelve miles ; and as my companion continued unwell, Mary Davis (a young woman from England on a villi to her friends) went with me, and many other friends : public notice was given to the town's people, and the meeting began towards even- ing, and was pretty large, but a hard time of labour, the minds of the people feeming un- fettled. We got back to Cork next day fea- fonably for meeting. 2d mo. 26th, proceeded for Yaughall, about twenty-four miles, and had a meeting there the day following; it was to me a precious time, but I defire ever to efteem myfelf as poor and empty, giving the praife to the Lord to whom it is due, and not to man. We got back again to Cork, and fpent firft-day pretty much as the former. Second-day being the firfl of the 3d month, called on a few Friends in the city that were confined to their houfes ; Samuel Neal accompanied and was a ftrength. to us. The next morning we went to meet- ing, where I was defirous of doing no harm, and through fear fat the meeting filent ; but after the men and women feparated, it being their three weeks meeting for difcipline, I was largely engaged in teftimony, and the Lord was pleafed to water his heritage, to the com- fort of my drooping fpirit. We dined at Richard Abel's, and had a little fitting in the ( 59 ) family, and then came back to our lodgings. The next day we fpent at Samuel Neal's, where fome Friends came in the evening, and we had a comfortable time together. The next morning we took leave of our kind friends, and attended by our guides, rode twenty-eight miles and lodged at CharlevilL The day following, got to Thomas Mark's, and had a little fitting that evening in the family. On the 7th of 3d month, made an agreeable vifit to a young woman who was fick ; but in a comfortable frame of mind : be- ing firfl of the week attended both meetings, which for the moft part were laborious, al- though the beft help was mercifully near, and gave frefh ability to difcharge what lay on my mind, which together with a favoured open opportunity, in the family that evening, I hope will not foon be forgotten, At this city we parted with Jofeph Hatten, who accompanied us to every meeting in the province of Munfter, except Waterford ; he returned home to Cork, and we proceeded towards Roffcrea, and rode thirty-four miles to the houfe of John Pirn. 3d month 9th, had a meeting at Roffcrea ; my companion was much favoured, and the meeting ended well. 10th. we went to the houfe of John Wily, about eight miles diftant, and had a religious opportunity in the family. It is pleafant to be faithful, and I rejoice when there is no caufe of reproof; but had rather there may be a fingirig of praifes for the many C 60 ) deliverances afforded us, for had not the Lord taken fome of us, as by the hand, what would have been our portion. 3d month uth, we had a meeting at Rul- linellmore and Birr. On the 14th attended a meeting at Nockballimar, and went to Elizabeth Warpool's, and had a comfortable time in the family : after I got to bed, the enemy of my fouPs happinefs was ready to overwhelm me, but my good Matter did mar- velloufly fhew me, that in his word of truth there is fafety for ever ; bleffed be his holy name ! The next day being firft of the week, We went to Montrath, where truth owned us. Thence we went to Mount Melick, had a meeting, and fitting in a family. Then to Tullamore, had a meeting at Jofeph Manlip's, and lodged at Moat ; I was unwell, but the Lord was good, and comforted me beyond vhat I can relate, with fuch peace of mind and •elignation of will, that it made all things eafy, ,s David faid, " the Lord made my bed in fick- :efs." 2 1 ft, we went to meeting at Moat, joth morning and afternoon, it was trying, nd religion low ; but I hope truth is gaining ;round. Thence to Ballymurry, had. a meet- fig, and returned to Moat on the 23d, where was much unwell, and brought to a clofe rarching of heart, which made me more wil- .ng to give up to truth's openings : I believe i was for the confirmation of my faith, being a a doubtful (late, ready to fink below hope j r 6i ) the hand of afHi&ion is often turned upon us for good. We attended the week-day meeting at Moat, and fome opennefs appeared ; yet for the mod part darkneis fo covered the meeting, that it was hard to get down to the fpring of life. My health getting better, we went to meeting at Edenderry, and a precious watering feafon it proved, tQ the comforting of the weary fouls, and I hope to the awakening of the lukewarm, and ftirring up the youth ; I defire to be hum- bly thankful and give the Lord the glory. We went to Sarah Neal's, and had a good meet- ing ; my companion was much favoured : we had alfo_a comfortable fitting in the widow S* Neat's family. From thence to Ballitore to the houfe of Richard Shackleton, and had a meet- ing in this place ; then to Athy, Caflle Dermot, Carlow, New-Rox, and had meetings. 4th month 4th, was at a firft-day meeting at Horetown, from thence to Wexford and Ranburn Mills, where w 7 e had a meeting, and a good time, moftly filent ; here my mind was comforted. We got to Cooladine, and had a meeting ; I was filent., but inwardly comforted in believing the Lord would teach his people himfelf. Then to Ballington, where I thought truth reigned and gained the victory ; but I Was favoured to fee the danger of being lifted up. At our firfl landing, the -fpring of the gofpel flowed freely, and defires w 7 ere raifed that I might know the proper time of flopping, F I 62 ) and be preferved from running before my guide, and kindling a falfe fire among the people, nth was at meeting at Ballincane ; 13th got to the houfe of Jofeph Williams, in Dublin. 14th went to meeting there, and met with William Matthews to our comfort. 15th employed our time in writing and vifiting fome fick Friends. 16th attended meeting : I faw my unfimefs for lb great a work as pro- moting the glorious caufe of truth on earth ; but the divine arm was underneath for my fupport. — -Staid to their firfUday meetings. On the 1 9th and 20th went to Stramore, where we tarried until the 25th attending divers meetings, alfo their quarterly meeting, in fome of which truth prevailed, to the tendering many minds ; here we met with John Pemberton, who had felt a concern to have fome meetings with thofe not of our fociety ; myfelf and companion felt a liberty to go with him, and a precious feafon it was, and the people were civil. We went ro the jail, and found a confiderable number of prifoners, three of whom were under fentence of death. In the evening had a meeting with the Prefbyterians in their houfe, and returned to lodging at Deborah Chrifty's. From thence, after attending feveral meet- ings, we returned to Dublin, and were at their week-day meeting, and at the meeting of minifters and elders, preceding their half-year's meeting. After which had an open time at a Friend's houfe, and returned to our lodgings ( % ) at Jofeph Williams's, where we had a com* fortable opportunity. 4th and 5th were meet- ings for difcipline, wherein I deiired to dwell near to that which would preferve me from doing any harm to the leail babe in the flock or family. I thought the lafl: a folid meeting, and ended well. After continuing in this city and attending divers meetings adjacent, where- in, though often tried and deeply exercifed, which caufed me to go mourning on my way ; yet at feafons, the Shepherd of Ifrael was pleafed to arife for our help, to turn the water into wine. Oh ! the many bl'effings that are beftowed upon me, for fuch was my peace that neither florins within or without, could affeft me, as my dependance was upon the Lord alone, who through every difficult path makes way for his little ones. We embarked on board the Prince of Orange, Captain Pofon 5 for Liverpool, where we landed the 22d of the 5th mo. after a pleafant paflage, having the company of a confiderable number of Friends bound to London yearly meeting ; attended their firfl-day meeting on the 23d, end on fecond-day fet out in a ilage-coach for London, having William Matthews with us ; and arrived there on the 27th, lodged at John Lifter's, went to Gracechurch-ftreet meeting, which was very large j after which heard that our dear friends Thomas Rofs, Samuel Emlen, Mehitable Jenkins, Rebecca Jones, George Diliwyn, and wife, had arrived. Attended the. F 2 ( *4 ) meeting of minifters and elders, and was again at Gracechurch-ftreet , but forrow of heart "was my portion, and fuch was my heavinefs that I kept no account from the laft day of the 5th month tiiisil the 10th of the 6th month ; but I hope to learn patience. Attended Tot- tenham meeting, and returned to the city, from whence I went with our friend M. Jenkins, on the 13th, to Wellingborough, and {laid to two meetings there, which were open uniting feafons. From thence to Leicefter, Lafsborough and Nottingham, where I lodged , at J. Storer's, who has been twice in our land. Thence to Mansfield, Chefterfield and Sheffield, mod of which w r ere feafons of refrefhment. 21ft fet out for Ackworth, and lodged there. From thence to York, and lodged at William Tuke's ; here we met with Nicholas Wain, and attended their quarterly meeting, wherein many truths were opened to our fatisfa&ion ; Nicholas was much favoured in teitimony, which was caufe of thankfulnefs to our great Mafter. Oh ! may we be kept in a watchful ftate, humbly dependant on him. Attended a marriage at Thornton in the Clay, and was at their firii-day meetings, the firft an open favoured time; returned to York, attended one meeting, and from thence went to Thirik, Northallerton, Darlington, and to a quarterly meeting at Durham, which proved fatisfactory to me. From thence to Sutherland and North Shields. My fpirit became much e^ercifed to C 65 ) v go to London, and I defire to be faithful to divine requirings. The 1 ith of 7th mo. attended a meeting at Newcaftle upon Tyne, to fatisfaction. Next morning parted with my companion Mehitable Jenkins and I returned to York, and attended 1 , a meeting there, wherein I was delirous to be made as clay in the hand of the potter, wil- ling. to be faihioned as the great Mailer would have me to be. From this place, in company \vith Ann Awmack, I took coach for London, and arrived there the 17th, where I continued' until the a*d of the 8th mo. attending the feveral meetings in that city ; but moflly that of Gracechurch-ftreet, where I -was made wil- ling to bow the knee in reverent fupplication, and could fey, that for the fpirit of heavinefs I had the garment of praife, and the oil of joy for mourning. Then I returned to my lodg- ings, rejoicing and healed: oh", what care there needs on every hand, to keep an eye fingle to the pointings of truth, that we may know the right place to (top, -as well as that of going fcrth ; but for the many deliverances and prefervations I have experienced, I defire to give God the glory, and may he be gra- cioufly pleafed to arife for my help, to make bare his arm for my fuppcrt, for I defire to trull in no other helper but him, on whom my ialvation depends. Oh, that I may. bring no difhonour on the precious caufe of truth, for L can fay, without deception, this is what I , F 3 ( 66 ) long for — for the life is more than meat, and the body more than raiment; may I patiently endure the crofs, and not call it grievous, but delight in baptifms, for they humble the foul, and keep it low by the ftill waters, where I may hear the Lord's voice intelligibly fpeak, to do this and live: I can fay the Lord is good to all them that feek him, bleffed be his name. I de- fire to ferve him in all his requirings, for indeed it is worth coming over the ocean for; they that forfake all, are to receive in this wdrld an hundred fold, and in that which is to come, eternal life; may I. therefore keep a fteady eye to the Great Helper, for it is of his mercy that we are preferved. On the 2/d of 8th month, in company with feveral Friends, fet out for Uxbridge, and had a precious meeting there, my poor foul being greatly comforted in beholding the condefcen- iion of the Lord to fo poor and unworthy a creature; may I be truly given up to do his will without referve, labouring in the ability af- forded, in remembrance of his mercy to my foul; to perfuade mankind to turn to the Great Healer of men, and be healed of their infirmi- ties. My mind was much affe&ed this after- noon at parting with our friend John Townfend, •who has been w r ith us, and as a tender father to me. We vifited two Friends who had been unwell, and had a comfortable opportunity. The day ended to my fatisfa&ion; bleffed be his name who ftill continues to be the help of ( 6 7 ) his people. From thence we went to Rich- manfworth, where the meeting is held at a widow's houfe, and we were mercifully fup- ported, and carried through welli oh. that I may dwell near that good hand that is able to deliver and help in every needful time. From thence to Staines, Windfor, Maidenhead, Amer-. fham, Chefham, Wickham, Henley, Shilling-, ford, Aylefbury, Hogfty, Sherington, Nafti,. Jackmore, Sibford, Hooknorton, Adderbury,. South Newton,. Banbury and Shipton; moft of which were open tendering meetings, which L hope to be humbly thankful to the Lord for;, it has been a clofe baptizing feafon, which dip- ped my foul into great doubts and fufpicions of my commiffion ; tire jealoufy I felt, left any thing of felf fhould be fuffercd to arife, and the folici- tude that I might be healed from all my infir- mities, that I might be preferved on every hand, neither giving way to the difcouragements which my enemy is often prefenting, to prevent me from doing my duty, or to be exalted" when favoured to perform what is required acceptably to my fellow-creatures, the praife of man, as well as the fear, having a fnare with it: my cup overflows in feeing the care of the Lord ta me at this time, more than I can exprefs; when I began I felt fo low that I could fcarcely write the account of the meetings, but I am brought once more to fpeak of his goodnefs. 9th month, 1 2th, went to Shipton, and at- tended a feleft meeting in the afternoon, and a ( 68 ) circular meeting held at that place; my foal was bowed in humble thankfulnefs, as at the gate of Divine Wifdom, for his great condefcen- fion, having been favoured once more to praifc his excellent name, as on the banks of deliver- ance, after a feafon of trial.- From thence at- tended meetings at Beccles, Radway, VVarwick, Hartlhill, Polefworth and Hinckky; fome of which were favouredfeafons, with divers oppor- tunities wc had in Friends' families. 23d, rode fourteen miles to Leicefter, and was fo overcome that I apprehended I fliculd be fick, but fo far recovered as to attend the feleft meeting, and the next day their quarterly meeting. 25th, returned to London, attended the morning meeting, and met my beloved friends Thomas Rofs, Samuel Emlen and George Dillwyn, greatly to my comfort, having divers refre(hing feafons with them in this place. 9th month, 26th, firft-day of the week, at- tended a meeting at Coventry, which was a pro- fitable feafon to me. Went in the evening to a: feleft meeting at Warwick, and the next day to their quarterly meeting, which proved a tender- ing. opportunity; after which went to Shipton, . Long Compton, and Chippington, and vifited fome families in this town, wherein f thought the little ftreams increafed to broad rivers, and I retired to bed with an humble fenfe of my own weakneffes, and the manifold mercies of him who knows bell how to deal with his poor creatures, and has fhewed me, that my dipping and proving ( 69 X feafons are only to prepare me for his own bleffed work; may I therefore bow in humble fubmiffion, to every difpenfation he may be pleafed to allot, though the floods of difcourage- ' ment may at feafons rife high. From thence went to Campden and Evefham, attended the feleft quarterly meeting, and I hope truth did not lofe ground. I felt a neceffity to make a flop in this place, and vifit the families, which though much in the crofs, I fubmitted to, and found great peace. 10th month, 10th, at- tended meeting again at this place ; and feeling at liberty, went to Cirencefter, and on the 12th had a meeting. From thence to Cheltenham, Painfwick, Nailfworth, Sedbury, Thornbury, Ovelftone, French Hay and Briftol, and roth month, 23d, vifited a few families of Friends* Some of the above named meetings were fa- voured feafons, and my foul was often folaced with the fweet incomes of divine love, for obe- dience to his requirings, though the enemy of my foul was fuffered to buffet and call down, which I have believed was to keep me humble, that no felf exaltation might arife, and fruftrate the work which Infinite Wifdom hath feen meet to appoint: and O! that all thofe who are tra- velling in the fame way 5 may put their whole truft and confidence in him, the never failing helper of his people, not giving way on the right hand, or on the left; but watch with all diligence, that fo they may be preferved in an humble dependence upon the Lord alone, who. ( 7° ) can make a way for his ranfomed ones, where no way appears; for furely, I fhould have funk had not he many times made bare his arm for my help; bleffed and magnified be his adorable name. Staid feveral meetings at BriftoK, from, thence went to Kingfwefton, returned to Briftol, and on the 31ft of 10th month went to Clarum meeting, and had a precious parting opportu- nity, with divers dear Friends, who gave us their company from Briftol; {laid at their monthly meeting the next day, then went to Sidcoll, Bridgewater, Taunton, Milverton and Minehead; the lad is a folitary fpot, but two members of our fociety in the place, except Robert Davis's family ; I felt much concern for tjiem, but hope both meetings were favoured with divine aid, and next morning had a com- fortable opportunity at parting. nth month, 19th, attended a meeting at Willington. From thence to Uffculme, Collumpton, Exeter, Newton and Kinglbridge,, and vifited about twelve families of Friends. — Firft of the week, 2.1ft of 1 ith month, went to meeting at Plymouth, and to one that evening at Loe; from thence to Germans, Leikeard, Auftell, MeragifTey, Penrin, Falmouth, Landf- end, Marazion, -and Redruth; here we refted one day with our kind friends William and Katherine Phillips; and then proceeded to Truro and Wadebridge, and after two days journey reached Wellington, 12th of 12th, mo. and had a precious meeting in filencp,! thought. ( 7> ) as much fo as ever I was fcnfible of. Proceeded to Taunton monthly meeting ; from theirce to Bridgewater quarterly meeting, and to Ilminfter, Yeoval, Petherton, Grenton, Glaftonbury, Hallfrow, Chewmagre, Poterhead and Briftol. lfl month, 2d, 1785, was too unwell to attend their firft-day meeting, and was confined feveral days ; but was greatly favoured with a contented mind, witneiling hard things to be made eafy, and bitter things fweet. ift month, 9th, being pretty well recovered, attended divers meetings in that place, one of which was among the pri- soners; the prieft feemed kindly difpofed towards us, and thanked us for our vifit to thofe con- fined people, that had broken the law both of God and man: he dined with us and converfed on religious fubje&s, by which we found he was concerned to have a fchool for the educa- tion of poor children; believing that if there was more labour that way, it would be a means of preferving many from grofs evils, by which they were often brought to an untimely end — deiires were raised in my heart for this man, that the Lord might make him a good fhepherd over his flock; for if righteoufnefs does but prevail, if we can but find the marks of true difciplefhip, and feel that there is an intereft ia the kingdom of heaven, it matters not what the name to religion may be, with him who has promifed, " That he will gather all nations, and they ffiall come to fee his glory." We alfo went to fee the poor people at the work-houfe, .( 7» ) which was a favoured feafon. The next day attended meeting, which proved a good time* for all which favours I defire to be humbly thankful, and to lay as with my mouth in the dull, acknowledging that it is the Lord's doings and marvellous in mine eyes, who has not been wanting to perform his gracious promifes tome, in a ftrange land. Firil-day of the week, 16th of ifi month, went to Olverfton meeting and Thornbury, in the afternoon ; from thence to Tewkefbury, Wor- cefter, Alcefter, Birmingham, Dudley, Stour- bridge, Tamworth, Uttoxeter, Stafford, Leek, Macclesfield, Stocpdrt, Morley, Middlewich, Frandley, Newton, Sutton, Chefter, Nampt- wich, and New- Dale, and ift of week, ad month 27th, were at Old-Dale, and lodged at Samuel Darby's; Ab : ah Darby, their ancient mother, a valuable woman, was poorly. Many of the above named meetings were open favoured feafons, though deep baptifms, and poverty were often allotted ; yet I have abundant caufe to bow low, in thankful acknowledgment unto him, who hath indeed dealt bountifully with me, though I have, at times, feared I fliould take my flight as on the Sabbath-day. Tarried at Dale feve- ral days, attending meetings, and vifiting fome who were fick and advanced in age; it was hard parting with fome in this place, for whom I felt very defirous, that they might be gathered *o the fountain and fource of eternal excellency; that fo they may witnefs prefervation through C 73 ) (he tribulated path, which the righteous in alt generations have had to walk in. Went from thence to Shrewsbury, where we had a precious feafon, and after the meeting an uniting oppor- tunity: then parted with Deborah Darby, a iweet fpirited woman, to whom my heart was nearly united. Went to Leominfter, and on the firft-day of the week, 13th of 3d month, attended meeting, and it proved a laborious day. From thence to Almely, Broomyard, Rofs, Pontipool, and Cardiff, at which lafl there were but two members; but a number of people came in, and we had a good meeting. We had the company of Jofeph Coal with us, who hav- ing a gift in the miniftry, was a true helper to me. Was at a meeting at Swanfey, which wa§ an open feafon. At dinner my mouth was opened in Amplication* for yielding obedience thereunto, though often greatly in the crofs, my mind was replenished with inward joy, re- warding me for leaving; all to follow him. After attending a meeting at Neath, ki oft' for Haverford Weft, were at their firft-day meet- ing, 27th of 3d month, and refting one dajj, rode to Carmarthen, and had a meeting in the evening, which was very large, and I enjoyed great peace of mind: as my trials were great, fo was my peace, for it flowed like a river. From thence to New-Houfe, Pales, and Llanidlos ; at this laft place I was much exer- cifed about having a public meeting, and gave upfo far as to impart it to my companion, wh® G (74 ) manifefted her unity, and we had one with Friends in the forenoon, and another in the evening in the town-hall; after which went to Yfkirgoch, and from thence rode over the high mountain, lodged at an inn, and was much ex- ercifed on account of having a meeting here, the people not underftanding Englifli, I left the place heavily, and went to Tythun-y-Garreg, and lodged at Dorothy Owen's, a valuable Friend, and fat with the few Friends there. Then refted one day, wherein my mind was deeply affe&ed with an apprehenfion that I mult fubmit to have fome meetings with thofe not of our fociety ; and I felt the woe, if I gave not up thereto, and was brought into a great ftrait, as I could not fpeak their language, and had no interpreter; but while fitting under this exercife, a perfon knocked at the door, and it fprang in my heart there is one come for my relief, and fo it proved to my furprife, it being John Lewis; thus again the Almighty made way for me, to my humbling admiration, praifcd be his name. Attended a meeting at Tythun-y-Garreg in the forenoon, and one in the afternoon at Dallygelly; next day at Llwyndu: from thence to Barmouth and Bola. In going to fome of thofe places we rode by the fea-fide on one hand, and a mountain on the other, which looked awful, for had our horfes taken fright, wx fliould have been in great danger; but the Lord was our preferver and we got well through, ( 7S ) which caufed me to rejoice in fear, and to be glad with trembling. Returned to Dollvgelly, where we viiited the prifoners; one man was under condemnation to be executed in about two weeks — O, that mankind would take warning by fuch affefting inftances, and turn from the evil of their ways. We went to Manhunluth, where was a quarterly meeting to be held at an inn, there being no Friends at that place; we had a public meeting in the. town-hall. From thence went to Aberhurft, to the Welch yearly meeting, which was large, and an exercife was again revived in my mind, to have feme meetings with thofe of other fo- cieties; accordingly we had one appointed at Mahunluth in the town-hall, at Kennys, Dinaf- mouthy, and Llonbremain, all held in the ftreet, and proved good open opportunities. Lodged at an inn, where the people were very tender and loving. We alfo had meetings at Rayador, Baile, Llandovery, Brecknock, Llanelly, Pon- ttpool and Abergavenny; mod: of which were held at inns or public buildings, and were to fatisfaction. 5th month 8th, were at their meetings at Rofs, it being firft-day, from thence rode thirty miles to Cirencefter; the next day forty miles to Shillingford, and fourteen next morning to a meeting at Hinby. Got to Staines that even- ing, and heard that our friends S. Emlen, G. Diilwyn, and C. Phillips were got to town. The next day, attended meeting at Staines j after g 2 ( 7«. ) which rode eighteen miles to London, and went to our old lodgings at JohnTownfend's; attended Grace-church-flreet meeting; and on the day following, which was feventh-day, was the 'feleft yearly meeting, and there I met our American friends T. Rofs, J. Pemberton, M. Jenkins, ■ W. Matthews, R. Jones and R. Wright; attended the feveral fittings cf the 'firft yearly meeting of women Friends held in this nation, forne of which "were favoured fea- fons. 2 2d of 5th month, I attended the firft- day meetings, but was under a great weight of Ibirit, my tongue is not able to exprefs it to the full; but the Lord is good, in that he has not laid upon me more than he will enable me to" go through, although I had allnoft given out, and thought I could go on no longer; but he has been fufhcient for the day of my trials, through good report and evil report, he has upheld me. Oh, how I deiire to dwell near that good hand, that has been fo kind to me, who has not cut me off in his anger, but has dealt as a tender father, in watching my.Jleps, and when I have gone too fait, how he has humbled my foul, and caufed me to ftand ftill to feek renewed ftrength. After attending the morning meeting of minifters and elders, to much comfort, I was- at ir:id-weelc meeting, when my mouth was opened, in a few v/ords 5 bur I was foon dipt into deep baptifms, which made me look well to my ways, and had ftrong deiires that the Lord would keep my body under fubje&ion, left while I was fpeaking ( 77 ) to others, I myfelf fhould become a caft away. Attended divers meetings whilft in the city, and one at the work-houfe, where were our dear friends T. Rofs and R. Jones, which was to mutual comfort, and we had a tendering feafon together; may the Lord have the prkife of his own works. 6th month 2d, we left London for Ipfwich,, and on the .5th attended their firft-day meeting; from thence to a quarterly meeting held at Woodbridge: I thought them favoured feafons, and that the good wine was handed to the re- freshment of our drooping minds, and fweet was the reward of peace that flowed into my heart. Had a public meeting at this place, where I fek my fpirit largely opened, in the love of our hea- . venly Father extended towards all his crea- tures, and went away rejoicing; may the praife and the honour be afcribed to him, unto whom alone it is due. After this, attended meetings at Needham, Difs and Norwich, at which place was a yearly and quarterly meeting held, which I thought much favoured: here I met Nicholas Wain and Rebecca Wright. I was concerned to vifit the prifoners, and hope not to forget the tendering efFeft it had on my mind, to fee fo many of our fellow creatures under fentence of death for murder and robberv. 13th of 6th month, left Norwich,. and parted with my companion Margaret Shiliito, who had fliown me great kindnefs, as had Edmund Peckover and his wife and children: Elizabeth G $ ( 7§ ) fcandler took her place, and we had meetings at Swaffham, Wilbich, Gidray (and had a precious, meeting with but about live perfons, two of whom were members.) Went to Spalding, Gainfborough and Thorn: here I met with Thomas Rofs and John Pemberton, and had: an evening meeting, which was to fatisfa&ion,. as were mod of the others; may my foul bow in humble acknowledgment to the Father of all our mercies, and give him the praife unto whom it is due. Next day went to York, attended their quarterly meeting, and went to the prifon with J. Pemberton; it was an humbling fight to fee fo many men in chains ; there were fome who looked to be under twenty years of age; we fpeaking of their youth, one anfwered us cheerfully, there were fome executed much younger than they were; how forrowful to be- hold fuch a ftate of hardnefs, w r hereby they could make fo light of death: they thanked us for our vifit, and I returned with peace of mind- From thence we went to Darlington and Durham quarterly meeting, and had a public meeting one evening in. this place for the town's people and fcldiers; all which was to our fatif- faftion ; may the Lord have the praife of his own works, and our own honour be laid as in the duft. From thence attended meetings a£ Stockton, Sunderland* North Shields, Tin- mouth,. Newcaftle,. Beltingham, and one in a barn at Ovington : they were tendering feafons, and my heart was filled with peace 3 it is the ( 79 ) Lord alone that can help me ; he made me wil- ling to rake up the crofs,ana appoint a meeting where there were no Friends, and mercifully fupported and carried me through, I hope to his own honour. At Sunderland, we lodged at Elizabeth Ogden's, who had lately buried a very deiirable daughter; I had a little know- ledge of her, and was much affected when I heard of her death, (he was about twenty-three years of age, had a precious gift in the miniftry, and was the only one in the public line that belonged to that meeting, in which fhe was much miffed: but her heavenly Father knew what was bed for her, and fhe has undoubtedly gone well, and is taken from a fcene of conflict and trial. 17th of 7th month, attended Newcaftle meet- ings, both of which were favoured feafons, but the pure life is exceeding low: I defire not to complain, though my leanneis is great, but to learn in ail lunations to be content, to reioice in fear, and to come before the Lord with trem- bling; for when he is pleated to arife he can make a way where there appears to be no war, even through the deeps; blefled be his name! Here I was taken il!, and continued fo about ten days, that I knew but little; after which, I gradually recovered, my mind at feafons en- joyed fweet quietude and relignation to the di- vine will. 8th month, 9th, I was io far re- covered as to ride out, and my phyfician and friends advifed my going into the country, for C 80 ) the benefit of the air, which I complied with, though I felt fome reluftance to it, and went to William and Ann King's who were kind and loving to me; and was a^ain taken ill, and continued fo for two weeks, that I Was doubtful of my recovery, but was mercifully fupported in this feafon of trial. I was confined, except riding out to take the air, from the 17th of 7th month to the nth of 9th month, when I was favoured to be fo far reftored as to attend meet- ing, and felt fomething to arife in my mind, and flood up to communicate it, but feeling unable, I again took my feat ; my dear companion arofe foon with the fubjeft, and the very fame ex- preffions that 1 had felt, revived ; I thought her much favoured, and mention it as a matter worthy of commemoration, as it fhews not only the near connexion there is with the true la- bourers, but the all-fufficiency of him who puts them forth and goes before them : after which, I parted with my dear friends, they having been made very near to me, divers of whom had been very kind in vifiting and caring for me, during my confinement: may the Lord reward them, for it was his doings, and my fpiritis overcome with his goodnefs and mercy to fo poor a crea> ture. We now began: to think of moving forward, and my friends propofed our taking fhort ftages, confidering my weakeefs; but it was marvellous how faft I was favoured to recover, and how my good Mailer increafed my outward ftrength y ( 8i ) we accordingly attended their week-day meeting at Shields, which was a favoured feafon, and on the 19th of 9th month, it being firft-day, was at two meetings at Sunderland. From thence to Durham, Bifhop, Aukland, Staintho-rp, Lartington and Darlington; I have been thre^ times at this place, and have heretofore been much fhiit up, but have felt the goodnefs of God to my foul this day, may I full live to praife and adore him, Viiited a man who was low in mind, and found him in a lamb-like ftate ; alfo divers individuals who were confined by ficknefs, and had refrefning opportunities with them, to the comforting of our ibuls. From thence went to Thirik, lodged at Mary Alerby's, who was not at home, but has hopeful children; we had a precious opportunity with our friends, who came in to fee us; Next day reached York, and attended their felect quarterly meeting where many things were opened and fpoke to, and it would be well if they were put in practice, for it is the doing of the law that will render us ac- ceptable: I was favoured with peace after the meeting was over. Attended their firil-day meeting at York, and fat with the fcholars in the evening at William Tuke's; went to our kind friend Lindley Murray's to lodge, who went with us the next day niae miles to Tad- cafter; his converfation was reviving to my fpirits, and the parting with him and his wife was trying to us. We had a precious meeting at Thomas Clifford's, Next day ipe::: . ( 8 2 ) morning in writing, after which attended ti meeting at Leeds, and was there on firft-day, 9th of 10th month ; after which I felt peace- ful, and that is better than the praife of men. From thence to Wakefield, Burton, Warmf- worth, Ackworth, and on firft-day, 16th of 10th month, attended Pontefraft meeting, and returned to Ackwonh — vifited the fchool which is kept for Friends children; they had upwards of three hundred boys and girls ; the teachers appeared to be folid, and religioufly engaged. I thought it a favoured vifit, and my heart was made glad in the leadings forth of the Lord. We returned to Leeds, and lodged at John Jewitt's ^ here we remained feveral days, my companion being poorly ; I attended their week-day and firfl-day meetings, one burial^ and fpent part of my time 111 writing home 5 and have thought there was no caufe to com- plain, but to be thankful, for if my companion had not been detained on account of her health, we might probably, by travelling pretty conftantly, have gone further than my ftrength would have borne, not being quite recovered from my illnefs. Our friends here were very kind ; we had many tendering feafons in fami- lies ; but fear often attended me, left I fliould go too faft or tarry too long behind, and herein is the kindnefs cf my good Matter manifested, by reviving thefe things often in my mind, to keep me in an humble watchful' ftate, where alone is true fafety. My dear companion ( 8 3 ) thinking herfelf able to travel from Leeds, we attended a meeting at Brighoufe, and fhe bore it better than I expected ; had a comfortable fitting in the family, and the next afternoon, fome friends coming to fee us, we had a ten- dering feafon together. Firft of the week, 30th of 1 oth month, rode four miles to Paddock meeting ; our good Mailer was near, and remembered the low eflate of his handmaid* And fo to Highflats and Lumbroyd ; from thence to Huthersfield, Rufhworth, Halifax, Bradford, and Gilder- fome, and returned to -Leeds; my companion having a child at fcliool in this place, it feemed moft iuitable for us to refrelh ourfefves a little, and (he having fome thoughts of leaving me, it was a great trial, for our fpirits were united together, and we drew as in one yoke ; fhe, however, went with me to Knairfborough, on the 13th of the nth month. I alio attended Darkre meeting (fhe being too unwell to go with me) and for a feafon fat in great poverty of fpirit ; but a little matter revived in my mind, and we had a tendering feafon ; after which thought bed to return to Leeds, my companion continuing poorly, and here we parted in gofpel love. The Lord looked down upon me, and engaged the heart of another dear friend to go with me, whofe name was Phebe Blakes ; we rode eight miles, and flop- ped at an inn, where I was enabled to open my mouth ia fupplication at the table, which ( 84 ) was very (hiking to the landlady ; I went away in peace. The next day attended a meeting at Selby, and had caufe to believe that our Matter had joined us together, bleffed our un- dertaking, and favoured us with a good meeting. From Selby went to Bottinwith, and had a meeting where we lodged ; and at Skipton, at our friend John Raleigh's : here I was favour- ed to fee the need of continual watchfulnefs, for having obtained relief from the deep weight that attended my mind on my firft coming into this country, I was defirous that I might be preferved from errors, for I faw the danger both on the right and left "hand : thefe feafons- of proving, keep the mind low ancLio>a folia- tion to receive divine imprefiions, but of late I have felt as a fpring fhut up, a fountain fealed ; but hope patiently to wait the Lord's time, who when he pleafes will water his heritage, and caufe it to grow and bring forth fruit to the honour of his name ; my prayer is at times raifed, that he may not leave me, one of the lead of his labourers-, but that he that hath been with me, may continue to be my helper, that I through him may overcome the world. From Skipton went to North Cove, which was at firft trying, but my companion foon kneeled and deiired the cloud might be difperfed : fo nearly were our fpirits united together, that we had great caufe to be encouraged in the fervice of our good Matter ; may the praife be afcribed unto whom it is due. ( s s ) We went to John Dickafons's, and the next day vifited feveral families, and returned to Robert Proud's, at Hull ; I with my com- panion vifited fome of her acquaintance, amongfc whom we had favoured religious opportunities. I defire to be kept low, and my mind inward, where fafety is, relying upon that arm that never fails to help his rightly dependant chil- dren ; but oh ! the feelings of the mind when fears take hold. The next day we attended the monthly meeting, and I thought it ended well. Then went to a meeting at Willick, and although the fore part was over-fhadowed with darknefs, towards the clofe light fprang up. We lodged at Peter Herd's. I now began to think myfelf releafed from thefe parts. The 4th of 1 2th month, went to Oilwich meeting, then to Hornfea, and the good Mafter was near to us, opening cur minds in pure love towards the people. From thence to Bridling- ton, and at the widow Steven's had a family fitting. On our way to Scarborough, we met with fome danger by quickfandsj but my heart was filled with peace, the fruits of obedience ; may the Lord be ever obeyed in all things ; by his rod and ftaff hath he upheld me in this journey. At this place we met with our kind friend Robert Proud ; the meeting I believe ended pretty well ; my fpirit was- clofely bap- tized. Ihe next day was refreshed, went to Whitby, rode over the moors, which are dan- gerous, but all was made pleafant to me, for H ( 36 ) by doing the will of my heavenly Father, hard things are made eafy. We went to Caftleton, Gifborough and Ayton ; the (late of the latter was much fpoken to. After which rode to Kawhneft, Rounton, Bifdale, Helmefby, Kirby and Button: at times the fountain was. un- fealed, and many comforted. I think it worthy of obfervation for others' encouragement, that at one of thefe meetings, a Friend aged ninety- two years, had walked &x miles to attend it j he was an approved elder. At Pickering we lodged at Roger Hart's, my fpirit was depreifed, and fears furrounded me ; but I hoped my faith would be again ftrengthened to perform the labour which I believed I was called to, for the fake of my own peace j and my delire is, that he will reward all his children, whom he hath made willing to leave all that is near and dear, to follow him in the way of his holy requirings. The ftate of the above meeting was opened to many minds. From thence to Malton j the Friends of this place were very kind to me, and I truft we parted in love. Thence we went to Huby, and this being the laft meeting, and the extent of the prefent journey, I was defirous it might belike the others, for the belt aid had been gracioufly near us in this vifit, and it was fo on the prefent occafion, to our comfort. From that place we returned to Leeds, to their quar- terly meeting, where I met many of my be- loved _ friends j among whom were Mehitable ( *7 ) Jenkins, Rebecca Jones, and John Pemberton. The meeting continued three days, and was much favoured ; after which we went to Un- dercliffs and Bradford meeting ; and on the firft-day following, being the 8th of lft month, were at Rowdon, which was a feafon of favour, and my companion was enabled vocally to fup- plicate the Father of our mercies. Next to. Olley, Fairfield, Skipton, and Lotherfale. I have been defirous' to be wholly given up to the will and direction of my heavenly Father ; he requires no more of us than he gracioufly enables to perform ; and although much weak- nefs was mine, and at feafons when nearly ready to give out, I may fay that Jordan was driven back, and my feet flood firm when all her banks were overflowed ; may my foul ever adore its God, he holds the winds, and by his word governs fea and land. Having a cold, I travelled through bodily indifpofition ; but have caufe to be thankful that I was enabled to continue my journey ; may the Lord carry me through to his honour, and to the fatisfaclion of my friends, without wounding the leaft babe in Chrift ; and it will not matter what I undergo, if favoured at laft with the reward of peace. Had a religious opportunity with the Friend of the houfe, who was fick. i ft month 15th, we were at a firft-day meet- ing at Sifterforth, and after a fatisfa&ory re- ligious opportunity in a family, fet'out on our journey, were at Airton and Starbolton, ihefe h 2 { 83 I; were pretty open meetings : here we left gut carriage and took faddles, and rode up a deep mountain, and fo to Ayfgarth, Leybourn and Marfham, being firft of the week and 2 2d of the month. In going to one of tbefe meetings we were overturned, v and my companion a little bruifed, but not fo much as we both were once before by a fimilar accident. Went to Richmond, Swaledale, and on firft-day 29th, at Counterfide : next to Grifdale (in Weilmore- land) Brigflatt's meeting, and Layeft; much of the time it had been rainy. Some of thefe meetings were tendering feafons, and through mercy at times, obtained the bleffing. Ob, may my fpirit bow at the feet of divine wifdom, and give the glory to the Lord, from whom our ftrength cometh : I have great caufe to trnft in his never failing arm, that has thus helped me through, and I may fay, I rejoice m fear, and ftand, before him with trembling ; it is good for me that he has dealt with me in this manner. 5th of 2d month, 1786, firft of the week, having met George Dillwyn and wife at Kendal, we attended their forenoon meeting ; the meet- ing in the afternoon was put off to the fifth hour, at the requeft of George Dillwyn, for the inhabitants of the town, which proved a favoured feafon, and 1 fincerely craved that the feed which is fow.ed in this land may bring forth fruit and multiply in the hearts of the fons and daughters of mem Next day we had ( §9 ) a very large public meeting in a fchool-houfe at Sedbar, ten miles, where many excellent truths were declared : I truft the Lord will make up all to me if I wait patiently his time, yea feven fold of rewards for all our labours : we returned to Rachel Wilfon's with peace. I fpent the remainder of the week there, taking their week-day meeting, and vifiting the fick and aged, in which I found peace of mind, praifed be the Lord therefor. The firft-day following were at, Wyndermeer in the fore- noon, and Kendal in the afternoon, feven miles diftant : then we took meetings at Crook, Grayrigs, Prefton, Yealand, and Wetherfdale, in which my mind was flrengthened in filence, as I was favoured to feek for and look to the Lord, knowing it to be very profitable for the renewal of my ftrength. We thence returned to Lancafter, and were at their firft-day meet- ing, 19th. Thence attended meetings at Wray, Field, Proud, Prefton, Longbridge, Standifti, Langtree, Afhton and Bricurfa, and coming to Liverpool, was feveral days confined there, being much indifpofed, but it pleafed Infinite Goodnefs to raife me up again. After taking their meeting, firft-day 1 2th of 3d month, were at meeting at Panketh in the forenoon, and in the afternoon at Warrington, wherein I was made willing to fubmit my life and all that is within me, to the wife difpofer of all things ; my faith was flrengthened, and the meeting ended well, and we had a favoured H 3 ( 90 ) fitting In the evening in a Friend's family, and the day following two others in different fami- lies of the town ; and then w 7 ent to Manchefter, and lodged at John Routh's, where I met with Sarah Taylor, his fifter, who has a valuable gift in the miniftry ; we had a favoured meet- ing there, and my companion' concluded it in fupplication. Thence going to Oolhim, we were at their meeting, but it beiag a heavy fnow ftorm, . the fnow was fo deep w r e could not travel for two days. Then going to Long- field, my companion thought of leaving me, which was a trial, for though I had parted with my near connexions, yet I find a united companion in a ftrange place, to be near; fhe went with me to firft-day meeting at Todmar- ton, where we had a good parting feafon. I remember when Jonathan and David parted they wept until David exceeded, for they loved each other, and we parted in love, and not becaufe we were tired with each other's com- pany, for the longer we were together the more I loved her, for fhe was a help-mate to me both within and without. On the 20th of the 3d month, this my valuable friend and companion, Phebe-Blakes, left me; fhe had been near four months with me, and it would have been very pleafmg if our good Mafter had engaged her to have continued with me during my flay in this land j but his will be done, and all will be well. Sarah Sutcliif, a young woman, accompany- ( 9i ) ing me, we fet off -on horfeback, and found fome difficulty in getting through the fnow- banks, but were preferved through dangers, and had a bleffed open feafon at Crawiliaw- booth ; I hope reverently to bow my fpirit at the feet of my Lord, and afcribe all honour to him to whom alone it is due. After taking the meeting at Bolton, I met with Sarah Reynolds, who concluded to accompany me. "We took meetings at Edgeworth and Blackburne, which were acceptable feafons, and came to Marfden much wearied ; and on firfl-day the 26th, had a favoured meeting not to be forgotten. Thence took meetings at Trawden and Newtown, wherein we experienced favour : my mind is at times poffeffed with fear, lead I fhould become a caft-away in this land, but my good Matter knoweth what is beft for me, which is to be truly humble, and I hope not to lack in that great and necefiary thing, for it is the humble that are favoured of the Lord — Oh, that I may be led in the meek path of righteoufnefo, all the days of my appointed time here. After meeting rode twelve miles to Bank, where my fpirit felt clofely tried, but I was deiirous to be made quite willing to fubmit to every dif- penfation. The toffing feas were made ftill and I refted, and w T as comforted in beholding the good hand, which was near to fo poor a creature as I am: but when I reflect on the many favours I have received from his boun- tiful hand, (for indeed I may fay that I lacked ( 9* ) nothing from him,) how fearful I am left I fhould not go through this great undertaking to the honour of the Lord, and fatisfaction of my friends. Firft-day, 2d of 4th month, was at meeting at Settle ; next day at Bentham, and third-day at Kendal : and fo to the monthly meeting at Penrith, which was an humbling feafon. After thefe we took meetings at Mor- dell, Terril, Mofedale, Caldbeck, Bolton and Wigton, fome of which were caufe of much thankfulnefs, and I hope to be duly humbled under a fenfe of my good Matter's care unto me in a foreign land. Having been under fome exercife on account of a concern I have felt to go into Scotland, and being defirous that fome. exercifed brother might be concerned to accompany us, to bear part in the work, we went to Carlifle, and there 1 received a letter from John Hall (whofe mo- ther, Alice Hall, being on a religious vifit died in our land) kindly offering his company to go there, and he being a valuable Friend in the miniftry, his oifer was very acceptable. The next day we had a precious open meeting at Carlifle, the day following we attended meet- ing at Scotby, and next morning fet out for Scotland,, rode thirty-three miles, and lodged at an inn : my companion and felf had a feafon of deep fearching of heart, and I became re- newed in mind to put my truft in the never- failing arm of power, and I hope to be more and more faithful thereto. Next day, riding (. 93 ) thirty-two miles, reached Kelfo ; and the day following, being firft-day, 16th of 4th mo. 3786, were at two meetings there, being the firft in Scotland ; they proved opening feafons. Second-day rode forty miles to Edinburgh, and > had a meeting there next day, and my heart was brought to rejoice in much weaknefs, and in the fear of the Lord ; during ray ft ay I felt fear on every hand, and I found it hard work to be truly faithful to what was required of me; but my good Mafter renewed my ftrength day by day, fuitable to the labour I have to go through. We rode fourteen miles to Perth, and next day thirty-eight miles to Stonehaven, where we had a meeting, a few old people attended, and the Mafter favoured us together: after meeting went fourteen miles to Aberdeen, and lodged at an inn, and firft-day 23d, had two meetings there. Then rode eighteen miles to meeting at Oldmeldrum, which was a tendering feafon, and returned to Aberdeen, where my companion- was much .unwell, as (lie has been moftly fince we came into Scotland ; but flie is a pattern of patience under affii&ion, and her company very inftruftive to" me, in this time of travelling, being fubje&ed to in- conveniences by long ftages and lodging at inns. Next day we attended their yearly meeting, and my companion held out better than I ex- pected : it was a hard trying time with us, but we were helped through with the oppreffed feed, to feel with them in their burthens j but ( 94 ) my companion continues fo poorly, and we are fo far from her hufband and children, that I am alrnoft difcouraged at times, but the great Phyfician is able to heal, and carry us through all ; it is he alone who is able to help us in all our trials. From Aberdeen we went to Montrofe, thirty- feven miles, and taking a fmall meeting there went to Dundas, twenty-eight miles, and had two public meetings, being firft-day, 30th of 4th mo. Second-day went twenty-two miles to Perth, and had a public meeting in the town-hall ; my concern about this laft meeting was great, but my good Mailer was near to my help, and I was favoured with peace of mind, which covered my foul as with a gar- ment, fo that all things were made eafy. The next day we had a cold wet ride over the moun- tain ; I felt concerned on account of my com- panion, but was favoured with fuch peace of mind myfelf, that the weather could not make me unhappy ; bleffed be the Lord, for he alone made way for me, and gave me ftrength to bear every trial. — One dear Friend of that country, John Wigham, bore up my arms with my dear companion's, I hope not to forget his kindnefs in this journey ; I do not recolleft to have met with a more feeling and fympathifing friend in Europe. We rode forty miles to Edinburgh yearly meeting, held for Scotland, where I met with John Pemberton, whom I was glad to fee, as alfo many others of mjr ( 95 ) dear friends ; it held two days, I was filent in all the public meetings, but felt them to be favoured opportunities. There are a few pro. mifing young people in this place, whom my fpirit travailed with, in hope that they will look to the never-failing arm of power, in all their ftepping along through time. We at- tended a public meeting at Loath, where there are no Friends, and returned to Edinburgh, and were at two meetings there on firft-day, 7th of 6th mo. in company with John Pern- berton, which proved to our comfort. Next day we (ct off for England, rode thirty-fix miles, and lodged at an inn, where my dear companion was fo unwell that we fent for a phyfician, and I being very weary with riding, relied poorly; but it was caufe of great thank- fuinefs, that I was favoured with health, in- deed I have caufe to fpeak of the abundant mercies bellowed on us, in our fteppings along in this journey. Next morning fetting off, and my dear companion recruiting, rode thirty-two miles and ladged again at an inn ; and next day rofe early, and rode fixteen miles to Sikefide, and lodged at a Friend's houfe, and the next day following went to meeting at Kirklovington, which was a tendering feafon ; but oh, my fpirit was in great trembling, and fear furrounded me, left I had done more harm than good ; and thefe things kept me low, which is like help to the foul, that it might not be lifted up, but centre in the low valley ( 96 ) of humiliation, there to be filled again with a renewal of divine goodnefs. Then taking meeting at Selport, came through Carlifle, and on firfl-day, 14th of 5th mo. were at meeting at Moorhoufe in the forenoon, and the after- noon at Kirkbird, fix miles further ; both meetings were tendering feafons, it was a time of poverty with me; came that night ten miles, to Holm, and next day were at meeting there, where I was filent ; but my dear companion, had fome fervice, to fatisfaftion ; and in the afternoon went four miles to Allenby, and had an open favoured meeting : after which we went to fee a young man, who came from America in the veffel with me, and is now in a poor ftate of health. I alfo vifited our cap- tain's brothers and fitter, their mother was from home, but I faw her fome days before ; I did not fee his wife, {he being alfo from home. Leaving them, we took meeting at Mary port, and came to Whitehaven- Many are the bap- tifms we poor travellers have to go through, but we have found the grace of God to be fufficient to carry us through in much weaknefs and fear, fo that we can fpeak well of his gracious never-failing name, that he has never fuffered us to fink below hope; he has' done iriuch for us, he has afforded us day by day a crumb from his bountiful table. After meet- ing we rode ten miles to Grayfouthen, and lodged at Jane Pearfon's. Next day rode three miles to Pardihawhall meeting, where ( 97 ) we had to fpeak well of our good Mailer : : here I law Hannah Harris, who has been in America on a religious vifir, and we were thtt- tualiy glad to fee each other. We lodged again at Jane Pearfon's, -and next day rode eleven miles to meeting at Broughton, and in the, afternoon to Cockermomh, which finifhed my viiit in this country, in which I am favoured' with peace of mind. 2 1 ft of 5th me. being firft-day, was at meet- ing at Highwray, where my companion was fo unwell as to fit the meeting with difficulty ; and returning to Hannah Wilfon's, fhe went to bed, and meeting being already appointed, it was no fmall trial to part with her. Hannah Wilfon accompanying me, w r e took meetings at Ulver- flon, and then at Height, where I met my companion again, yet very poorly ; but next day fet off with us, and rode twenty-four miles to Lancafter, and lodged at William Dilworth's. Next day fifty-two miles to Warrington > tnf companion's fever abating, I left her, and went about fix miles to the general meeting, and my mind was made peaceful in being obedient to my heavenly Father, although in much weak- nefs ; yet the fun broke out of the cloud fo.me-* times, to the refrefhing of my poor drooping foul. Being accompanied by E. Jollay, a kind young woman, we took meetings at Micdleant- with and Coventry ; the laft being particularly owned by the great Mafter, my cup overflowed 1 ) and the tender plants were watered .with the ihedding abroad of the Father's love. We then proceeded on for London, where we ar- rived on the 30th of 5th mo. andimet my, dear friend and former companion R. Wright, and we were mutually pleafed to fee each other* Here I alfo met Mehitable Jenkins, and all our American friends now in this land, except J. Pemberton. The next week the yearly meet- ing coming on, I was enabled to attend it, which were all favoured fittings, to the praife of the great Name. 1 7th of 6th mo. 1786, went to Rochefter, and next day attended their firft-day meetings, which were favoured feafons ; but my poor fpirit was deeply baptized, in which I hope to fubmit to the fuiferings allotted me, until the Lord fhall fay it is enough. Accompanied by Mary Horfenail, I went to Canterbury, Drapers and Dover, where the meetings were much favoured with divine light, particularly at Dra- pers, much tendernefs appeared ; may the Lord be praifed for ever. From Dover we went to Folkftone, took meeting there, vifited fome fick Friends, &nd returned to Dover monthly meet- ing. Oh, my deareft Lord, I pray thee to uphold me with thy right hand, for thou only knoweft all my trials and dangers that I have to pafs through in this life; thou haft mercifully delivered my po'or foul from deftru&ion in time paft; I pray thee, holy Father, be near to me, ( 99 ) and fupport me by thy free fpirit, in every needful time. 25th of 6th mo. meeting with Mehirable Jenkins and Sarah Stephenfon at Dover, we ftaid meetings there, being firil-day, and was at a filent meeting in the morning, and a fitting with our friends in the evening, to my great comfort. Next day attended the meeting for bunnefs and for ministers and eiders ; it was an open time, and the lad a precious feafcn. The next day going to Afhford, I was under great concern of mind to have a meeting at a place where I was informed there were no friends, though the largeft meeting-houfe among thofe of our fociety in that county : the next day went to meeting, and it was a mod favoured feafon. We rode twenty miles to Cranbrook, and had a meeting appointed that evening; I underftood the people were well fatisfied with the opportunity ; there were two minifters of Dover that attended : I could fay that the good Mailer made way for me; oh, may my foul bow as to the dull, and give glory to his molt powerful name, Which is worthy to be ferved and obeyed in all things. Lodged at an inn, and next day rode twenty-two miles to Hilly- Park ; and next day taking Gardner-ftreet meeting, we came to Lewes, and on nrft-day, 2d of 7th month, attended meeting there ; and. in" the afternoon a public meeting being ap- pointed, my fpirit funk into difcouragement, but I could honeitlv fay, Oh Lord thou knowefl I had thy honour in view: we were favoured with a good open, feafon ; oh, may my foul bow down to the duft and give all glory to the Lord, who is worthy of all praiie. We then took meetings at Brighton, Ifield, Hoiv iham, Shipley, Arundel and Chichefter, which were moflly precious feafons ; at the lad:, three prieds attended, who I underftood were well iatisfied, and defired notice might be given them whenever Friends came there again. 9th of 7th mo. being firft day of the week, we were at meeting at Godalmin, and I felt -myfpirits begin to fink again., for I wanted daily wafhing in the laver of regeneration : Oh, this great and ardent work feems as if it would be too heavy for me to go through to the honour of truth, which is made as near to me as my own life ; I long for truth and righteoufnefs to reign in the hearts of the foils of men, and to rule over all nations :: in the morning it was laborious work, but in the afternoon it was as a refrelhing fhower ; my heart was made humbly thankful, and I hope it will not be forgotten by me a poor worm ; I long daily to be laid as in the duft, fo that I might be truly favoured of the Lord, and enabled of him to work in his vineyard. Thence we went to Capel and Dorking, which were favoured opportunities, at the latter meeting a prieft attended-, w T ho expreffed tome his hope that the Lord would blefs my undertaking, and told a, Friend he was glad he ^as. there*. ( ioi ) After meeting at Croydon, I parted with my dear friend Mary Horlenail, whom I dearly 'loved. Next day Am> Robinion went with me to Wandfworth, where we had a fatis- faflory meeting. Thence to Kingiron, and had an evening meeting. After takiag meeting on firft-day 16th of 7th mo. we came to Guild- ford, where I felt a concern to appoint a pub- lic meeting, but it was a greater crofs to appoint fuch a one than my tongue can exprefs ; fometimes I was ready to flinch and draw 7 back, fo far that I was often afraid the Lord would caft me out of his favour, then he made me willing to comply to any thing that he required of fo poor a creature as I often fee myfelf, and my God knoweth that I have need of a large fhare of poverty to keep down my afpiring mind : Oh, that the Lord may bring me down in what manner he pleafes, that I may never lack humility faith my foul : meeting ended to fatisfaction. Taking a meeting at Frail, we came to Alton, and after a favoured meeting there, my friend Ann Robinfon parted with me, and Deborah Merryweather accompany me, we attended meetings at Bafingftoke and Whitchurch \ the latter was a tendering feafon, and I trull fome drooping fouls w r ere comforted: and united in frefh. remembrance of the heaven- ly Father's love, extended to the humbling our fpirits together,. Oh, gracious Father, how oft haft thou helped me in times pad ^ mayeft thou not leave me in a foreign land % 1 a (.102 } but open my way, and caufe rile to ftand boldly for thy honour, thou who art able to o all things; pour down thy pity once more upon me, and renew thy promife to tne, that thou, would dire& me what to lay. Thou art worthy to be ferved and obeyed by me, all the re- mainder of my days, and may I be devoted to thee, for truly thou haft rewarded with great wages for my little labour, yea even four fold for giving up the prime of my days to follow thee through various trials : fometimes I was ready to give out, and then he would arife for \ my encouragement, and make me willing to undergo any thing if he would but be with me in the foreft, and as it were in the lion's den : his prefence is fufficient to reward me, for all my afflictions became as a rich garment, fo that I could fay that all things worked together for my good ; oh, that I may ftill truft in his never- failing arm of power. We then took meetings; at And over, Ramfay and Fording-bridge, and the good hand was near : oh, that my good Mafter may keep me on every hand, that my converfation may be a feal to my teftimony, that I may dwell in the deeps, fo as to receive the favour of life unto life, and to bring up memorials as from the bottom of Jordan, to fuit the ftates of thofe who are daily mourning, for religion is at a very low ebb in this land : yet I find a few enquirers, who want help, not being willing to take up the crofs, and deny themfelves of the glittering things of this world, C 103 ) for they appear very pleafing to the outward eye. There are four meeting-houfes fliut up in this county, and others where meetings- are feldom held ; and in the laft counties I have vifited, there are feveral other houfes fhut up* and thofe that are kept open have very fmall gatherings, and unlefs there is a returning back to the fountain of all good, I believe it will be the cafe with more fooh. Oh, that the Lord may pour out his good fpirit upon the fons and daughters of men, that the wafte places may be rebuilt, that Zion may fhine again in her ancient beauty, faith my fpirit at this time. After taking meeting at Ringwood,. came to Shaftfbury, and met with Sarah Stephenfon, to my great comfort; fhe concluding to take fome meetings with me, it was a great relief to my mind, for although I had a very kind young woman with me, yet my drooping fpirit was very low* feeling the want of one to help me in weightier matters : I had often prayed the Father of mercies that he would pleafe to con r cern fome weighty Friend to come to my afliftance, and I think Imay fay that my cup overflowed in the remembrance of his abundant mercies and kindnefs to fo poor a creature as I am. We were at Ringwood on 30th of 7th mo. and had a pretty good meeting, but their holding their monthly meeting the fame day (being firft-day) did not feem pleafant to me. We then vifited the meetings of Marnhull, Sherborne and Longfutton j the two laft month- ( m ) Jy meetings : thence to Chard and Bridport; after the meeting at Bridport I was brought to remember that our dear Lord and Saviour, after he had fed the multitude, and alfo taught the people, that he retired to the fea-fide ; and if we have been favoured, we muft be immediately humbled again, for that .is our fafety, to wear his holy yoke, and learn to be meek and lowly in heart : oh, my fpirit trembleth, and none can tell the deep wading of my poor foul, yet I live and get along, for according to my trials hath my ftrength been, bleffed be the name of .my God, who anointeth and reanointeth me for his work, day by day. Firft-day, 6th of 8th mo. were at two meet- ings at Pool, and feeling a concern to go to the Ifle of Wight, Mofes Ncaves, the Friend at whofe houfe we lodged, his daughter, Morris Birkbeck, and feveral other Friends accom- panying me, we went to Newport, and had a large meeting, wherein fonie were tendered : there is here a meeting-houfe belonging to Friends, but no Friends refide here at prefent. The place where we firft landed being a con- fiderable town, I had a mind to have a meet- ing, and after fome difficulty in procuring a place, a warehoufe was provided ; the notice being fhort, not many people came in, but .we had a favoured opportunity, though religion feems low on this Ifland. We then fet fail for Pool, and paffed by a fmall town which I hardly knew how to get clear of, but faid nothing ( m ) about it; we landed at Pool, and lodged again at Mofes. Neave; he was a kind father and brother to me. After my. return, I felt afraid I had loft the penny, in not calling ac the other place, not feeling that fweetnefs of mind I did before, for obedience m every fmall act bring- eth peace, fo doth every fmall aft of difobe- dien.ce obftruft it i I have great caufe to cry out againft myfelf and fay, that though it feemed there never was a more unfaithful fer- vant laboured in his vineyard, yet the Lord's mercies are great towards me. After taking a meeting at Afhmore, we came to Shaft(bury, and.onfirft-day, 113th of the 8th mo. were at their meeting, which was a ten,, dering fe-afon ; here Morris Birkbeck parted with us. Then attended monthly meeting at Melkfham, where our fpirits were refrefhed to- gether, as they were alfo next day at their week-day meeting. I then vifitedfome families, and the meetings at Divizes, Lavington and Marlborough, lodged and lefted next day at Calne, and firft-day, 20th, attended the meet- ing at Charleot, eight miles ; and returning to Calne, I parted ... with my dear friend jSi Stephenfon, fhe hearing her aged mother was fick ; it was no fmall trial to me, but I could not difcourage her. After meeting at Calne, we attended meetings at Chippenham, Pick- wick, Hullavington, Broomham ; and on firft- day, 27th, two at Bradford, and though there are only a few members of our fociejy, the meeting was large hrthe afternoon: they were profitable feafons. Then vifiting afmall number of Friends at Weftbury, we came to the quar- terly meeting at Devizes, where I was glad to meet William Matthews; the meeting proved a heavy feafon to me, but at their week-day meeting next day, I had an open time, and was glad I was there. Here I parted with Etther Moxham: then going to Fannington, Mary Powell, a tender friend, went with me, taking * meeting there on firft-day ; 3d of 9th mouth, were at meeting at Abington, which, though a final! poor meeting, I thought our Matter owned, us. Thence to Witney, Charlbury and Milton, where my dear Matter caufed me i to tafte of his remembrance in aftrange land: I had miffed thefe meetings when in this county before, on account of the circular meetings. Then parted with- my dear friend- M. Powell, who is a fweet fpirited woman, and' weighty in mind. I had a precious meeting at Burford, it pleated* the Lord to open the fprings^ of life, fo that my fpirit was tendered; oh, may he have the honour of his '" own works, and my mouth be laid in the duft before him,- and feek for an abated ftate, day by day, fo that I may experience a rifmg with the feed, for it teems . alraoft famiflied in fome parts of this land. x Firft-day, 10th of 9th month, at Gloucefter, we had a low feafon, with Friends only, but in the afternoon I hope there was fome good gathered. My friend Sarah Squires, of CharK I e>7 ) bury, went with me to Breeder, where I thought truth gained the victory, although the forepart was a diiturbed meeting. Firft-day, 17th of 9th month, rode twelve miles to meeting at Shatford, which proved a tender feafon, I was made glad I came there, having fome thoughts of omitting it, hut I had the reward of peace. Then going to Eatington, my companion parted with me, and I went fix miles to the monthly meeting^of Brails, where I met with many of my dearTriends, whom 1 had before been ac- quainted with, and we w T ere glad to fee each other; I had indeed no caufe to regret my coming here, but I have abundant reafon to fpeak well of my good Mafter; oh, that I may dwell low and in an humble frame of mind, and give all the honour to his glorious name. We went alfo to Berklwell, to lit with a few Friends who attended, they were advanced in years, and I feared they were a difcouragement to others; I had an open meeting with them. Firft-day, 24th of 9th month, I was at meet- ing in Coventry : thence took quarterly meeting at Warwick, which proved a favourable feafon ; William Matthews and Rebecca Jones were alfo there. Returning to Coventry, Mary Brindfon joined me as a companion, and w r e went to Hinckley, and lodged in a Friend's family, with whom I have been fomewhat acquainted; my fpirit was much exercifed about them, thinking them in a dangerous place, as I. often feel myfelf, and often find need to feek unto the Lord, to ( m ) protect me from the many fnares of this vaili world, for there are many things that dull the brightnefs of truth and righteoufnefs, that other- wife might fhine through his faithful fervants, fo that they would be way-marks to enquirers after falvatioti; but how many do I fee in this land, that feem quite on the other hand, which I remark with forrowv yet I find fome that long to come up to the mark of pious example, in the way that leads to righteoufnefs and falva- tion. Thence taking meetings at Leicefter, Caftle Donnington and Loughborough, which were all precious feafons, came to Nottingham to John Storer's, who w r as gone to America on a religious vifiu Here I relied a day, feeling very low in mind: R. Grubb called to fee me, and my fpirit was much revived, fo that I ex- perienced the faying, as iron fliarpeneth iron, m a man fharpeneth the countenance of his friend. Firft-day, rftof 10th month, I went to meet- ing at Nottingham, and vifited the family of John Lever, whofe wife Mary Lever, was once in our land; (he was now abfent on a religious vifit. Thence taking meetings at Breach, Furnace and Monyafh, which were all favoured feafons; oh, may my fpirit humbly bow to the Lord for all his many favours which he hath beftowed upon my poor foul, in this foreign land: he is pleafed to ftrip and to clothe us as he fees fit, blefied be his holy name, he has fomewhat filled my empty cup again, but I dare ( te$ ) not joy. but with trembling, left my joy fhould be turned into mourning; oh Lord, caufe me to ftandfirm, and give mean equal mind. Firft-day, 8th of ioth month, were at Sheffield meetings, which were blefled unto us. Thence to Cheiterfield, Mansfield, Broomhoufe, Blyth, and Retford; fome of which were precious meetings. I was told there were feveral meet- ing-houfes belonging to Friends m this county where there are now no meetings kept up ; thefe are melancholy accounts, but the crofs is very much fliunned, fo true religion withers away, which is very painful, but I believe the Lord will be clear, and I hope his fervams will be clear, in warning and inviting the people to turn to the Lord. We called to fee a Friend whofe hufband it was thought had removed eight miles from Friend's meeting, to keep her from going to them; my fpirit felt with her, and I thought the Lord would make way for her, if fhe would be faithful, but her work muft be hard, (landing fo alone, but the Lord can make hard things eafy. Firfl-day, 15th of icth month, were at meet* ing at Broughton, which was a tendering feafon; I law what a bleffed thing it was to Hand on holy ground. After meeting my mind was ex- ercifed to viiit all the families belonging thereto, which I performed and felt peace for my labour. After taking meetings at Waddington, where it pleafed my good Mafter to open the fprings of life, I felt a concern to have a meeting ap- K ( -lio ) pointed in the city of Lincoln, where there is a meeting-houfe but no Friends; it was no fmall crofs to give up to it, I tried to make excufes, but found that would not do, and I afked for ftrength to fubmit to the Lord's commandment, and that his righteous will might be done, that being the only place of fafety: I had rode through the place about a year before, and felt a like concern on my mind : the meeting was appointed, and although not large, we were favoured with a good feafon, and I had peace of mind in obeying the divine manifeftation : oh, that I may ever ferve him with a willing mind, and if but one foul can receive a little barley- bread, through fo poor an inftrument as 1 am, it will be a great reward tome. My heartfelt mily grateful to my kind Mafter, who calling me from my outward habitation, to vifit this Jand, inflamed me through many forrowful nights and lonely days, under deep travail of ipirit; he alone knoweth them, and when he pleafeth to open his bleffed ftores to me, I am richly rewarded, and count them but fmall. 2 2d of ioth month, was at two meetings at Brigg, where we w r ere much favoured, parti- cularly in the afternoon, when many not of our fociety came, and were- quiet and attentive. We alfo had a precious meeting at Wainfleet, and another at Leek, then one at Bofton, where only one member attends the meeting, but others came in, and we had a good open time. Then going to Spalding I received fome ac- (Ill ) counts from my dear hufband and children that they were well, which is a great relief to my mind, as the accounts before left him fo very poorly, that my children doubted his recovery, ift-day, ioth month, 29th, were at two meetings at Spalding, both weighty feafons: then going to Gedney, my mind was much ex- ercifed in forrov/, to fee how the mighty have fallen, and how the people have turned into by-paths, and but few that lay it fufficiently to heart; yet I have no doubt there is a living feed, although the number appears fmall; oh, that they may be enlarged, but they are. much borne upon by the libertines: I pray the Lord to endue them with double ilrength, that they may not be turned either to the right hand or to the left, but be favoured to make their paths ftraight through the wildernefs of this world, before the Lord, fo as tobs as bright and (lim- ing {tars as in former times, when the Lord was pleafed to raife us up to be a people, to (land bold for his honour, and the crofs was made their delight in the Lord, although it led to priibns and the (locks, but now it is (hunned and trajnpled upon in the ftreets. We attended meetings at Gedney, thence to Wiibeach and Wareham, feveral of them I had vifited before, but falling in my way defired to take them again, being fmall meetings and not fo often viiited as larger; they were favoured feafons, and my foul was humbled in deiires, that the Mod High would abafe it more and more, until k 2 ( 112 ) he brings me where I ought to be, fo that I might obtain his bleiTed notice, and be carried through this viiit to the honour of his great name, to the peace of my own foul, and to the comfort of my dear friends, who are deeply bowed for me. After attending two meetings at Lynn, I viilted two aged women, to the ftrengthening of my drooping fpirit. Thence to Fakenham, where ray mind was much drawn to the people, and this meeting was exercifing to me, as I was very jealous of myfelf, but we had a moll favoured ieafon, and my mind was humbly thankful therefor: I was led to treat upon the fubjeft of people being led tc do vio- lence to their own life, that the Lord had de- livered my foul from fuch a temptation, and that he is able to deliver every foul therefrom, that put their truft and confidence in him: one of the Friends prefent told me afterwards, lie was under a flrong temptation of that fort. We then went to the meetings of Wells, Holt and North- Walfham, which were favoured feafons;, and firft-day, nth month, I2th, were at meeting at Yarmouth, and in the afternoon attended a funeral, which, with an opportunity with the mourners, were precious feafons. Thence going to Norwich, met with Mehitable Jenkins and Ann Aumack, whom I was rejoiced to fee in health: attended meeting there, and then taking meetings at Tafburgh, Tivitfhall and Difs, returned back to Norwich, where I was (a much indifpofed as moftly to koep my ( "3 ) bed; but on firft-day, 19th, attended their two meetings, which were both illent, reded and wrote to my dear hufband, and then attended the monthly meeting there, which was a bkffed feafon : we had alfo a refrelhing meeting at Wymondham, where my companion was much favoured in teitimony. Thence took a meeting at Attleborough, and returned to Norwich, and on firft-day, 26th of nth month, had two fatisfac- tory meetings there, and next day Mehi table Jenkins joined me, and we united as companions, and I hope our heavenly Father will conneft our hearts and fouls together as David's and Jonathan's were, that our ways my pleafe him in going out and coming in before the Lord and his people, and find favour in his fight. Thence taking meetings at Wells, Holt and Lammas, returned to Norwich again, and had a weighty feafon in the family of Edmund Peckover, feveral Friends coming in. After attending two meetings on frit-day, to fatis- facHon, at Yarmouth, and viiking a fick friend, we took meetings at Pakefield, Beccles and Leilton: oh, that the Lord would lhake the dry bones., and breathe the breath of life upon them, that the bleiled truth may not be fo much denied as to fall in the ftreers. Firft-day, 10th of 12th month, we went to meeting at Woodbridge : thence the meetings of Ipfwich, Mendlefham, and the firft-day fol- lowing, were at two meetings at Needham; vffr - were alfo.at the quarterly meeting there, where K 3, ( "4 ) was abundance of preaching, but myfelf and companion were filent in the public meeting. ■We a r terwards vifited the meetings of Ran- tefdon, Edmundfoury, Bardwell, Thetford, Brandon, Mildenhall, Haverhill, Sudbury, and fo to Halftead, in Effex: thence to Colne, and en firft-day, 31ft of 12th month, at two meetings at Colchefter; mod of which meetings were favoured opportunities, and my dear companion had good fervice in many of them. Thence we took the meetings of Manningtree, Copt- ford, Coggefhall, Kelvedon, Witham, Chelmf- ford, and going to Stonehall, lodged at William Knight's, who had a cancer in his face; we had a blefled opportunity with him, to our mutual comfort. Next day rode to London, and lodged at J. Bevan's, *6th of ifl month, 1787. We ftaid in London Tome time, at- tended the quarterly and other meetings as they came in courfe; fome of which were feeling feafons ; but oh, the need of dwelling low, great were my exercifes in this place, and though filence has been frequently my lot, I have fometimes had a little to fay, and found 'peace, and 1 have thought my companion has been favoured. 21ft of ift month, being firft-day, we were at two meetings at Chelmsford, which were fa- voured feafons, calling for humble acknowledg- ment. Thence went to Dunmow, the fore part of the meeting feemed a dull time, but in the latter part my companion was greatly fa- ( "5 ) voured in fupplication, and had feme fervice, and the meeting ended quiet and well, I hope to the honour of truth. We had a bleiTerl meeting alfo at Stebbing; I think I never knew my companion more favoured, and after meeting my mind was fweetly clothed with the remem- brance of God's love to me from my youth until this time; may I live more and more under a humble fenfe of the m^ny mercies he hath extended to me a poor worm. Thence we took meetings at Felftead, Thaxted and Bardfield, which were favoured feafons. We then went to Walden, and ftaid their* meetings on firft- day, 24th of ift month, and lodged at George Gibfon's, whofe wife was once in our land; we alfo ftaid their monthly meeting, and then- took the meetings of Walden, Bifhopftortford, Stanfted, Hoddefdon, Ware, and fo to Hert- ford meetings on firft-day, taking our lodgings at John Prior's; we alfo ftaid their monthly meeting, which was a tendering feafon. Thence to the meetings of Buntingford, Royfton, Afhwell, Baldock, Stratford, and to the meet- ings of Hitchin on firft-day, nth of 2d month, where we met W. Matthews and R. Wright, and I received information that my dear huf- band was thought to be nearly gone in a de- cline; it w r as very trying to me, but may the will of the Lord be done, for he truly knoweth what is befl: for me: oh, Lord, if thou wilt but be with me, fo that I may not bring diflionour upon thy holy name, it is all that 1 require at C « yet had to rejoice in the Lord's dealing with my poor foul, to wafh and fit me for every day's work, with renewed remembrance of his mercies who worketh many ways for my fafety; great and wonderful are all his glorious works: oh, that thou, oh Lord, wouldlt never forget me, but uphold me by thy free fpirit, through time,. and conduct me lafe to the end, fo that I ma/ be lifted up to praife thee among thy faints and angels, and the fpirits of juft men made perfcx.\ ( "8 ) entering into true reft in that endofure where nothing can hurt or harm me any more. During my late abfence from London, I heard of the death of John Dollin, a very valuable, fober man; he hath left a wife and three chil- dren, he will be much miffed in "the city of London : I received a letter from him fome time iince, which is as follows : " Lonbon, 2d mo. 2d, 1787* u Dear Friend V "Patience Brayton, " THOU and thy dear companion have been frequently and affectionately brought to my re- membrance fin'ce parting with you, , with 211 in- creafing defire that I might be found faithful, coming up in the footfteps of the flock of the companions of Chrift, and be made truly willing to be their companion, infuffering as wdl as in rejoicing, in which tribulated path I have de- fired in my fmall meafure to be enabled to fym- pathize with thee, my dear friend, whofe lot hath been to be deeply baptized, and to go dawn as unto the bottom of Jordan again and again ; bleffed be his name whofe wifdom is unfearch- able, and his ways pad finding out, how is he gracioufly pleafcd to lead about and inftruct his depending children, bringing thera through a variety of ftate.s, whereby they are enabled to • ipeak comfortably upto others., and having ( *w ) themfelves brought up from the very bottom of Jordan, llones of memorial to the mercy and goodnefs of their God, are .at times qualified to lay unto the weak in faith, be flrong, and to thofe who have no might of their own, put on ftrength. I feel that love to flow towards thee, thou dear Mother in Ifrael, which is better felt than exprefled, and I am made to rejoice in the fenfible feeling thereof, wherein the living are bound up together in the covenant of love and life, and their cups made to overflow in reve- rent thankfgiving, and they enabled to rejoice evsn in tribulation, to rejoice that they are not only counted worthy to believe in, but alfo to fufxer for his bleffed name and the feed's fake* And now, dear friend, be encouraged to caft thy care on the Almighty, and he will fuftain thee, who hath promifed to be as a hufband to the Vvidow r , and as a father to the fatherlefs children, who put their trad in him; may his blefied pretence go along with thee, and be thy companion, not only in thy going out, but in thy coming in and returning home, be thy flay and thy ftaff, and thy exceeding great reward; giving thee largely to partake of the {heaves of fweet peace, which is the portion of the obe- dient foul. I fully believe, dear friend, that there is a further arduous fervice for thee to perform in this great city; but be not difmayed, although it may be given thee to threfh the mountains, feeing the mountain of thz Lord's houfe fhali be exalted on the top of all the ( 120 ), mountains, and the place of his feet fhall be glorious. He that hath called, is faithful to ad* minifter ftrength to his truly depending children, proportioned to the work of the day; he maketh his little ones as Davids, and his Davids as the angels of his prefence; he caufeth the mountains to flee before them like rams, and the little hills like lambs, at the glory of his majefty and the brightnefs of his arifing: even one, is through his mighty power to chace a thoufand^ and two put ten thoufand to flight, before whom the nations of men are made but as grafs-hoppers. " Accept, dear friend, with thy companion, my moil cordial love, whofe earned defire is, that I may be made meet to be, not only your truly affe&ionate friend, but according to my fmajl meafure, your faithful fellow-labourer in the kingdom and patience of Jefus Chrift. " JOHN DOLLING After the quarterly meeting I went to fee the widow Dollin and her children, and felt greatly with her in her trouble. 10th of 4th month, I went with my dear companion on board iliip, to fee if it fuited her to take paffagehome; we had a favoured time, and 1 felt my faith ftrengthened and confirmed, that the time was not yet come for my de- parture; yet I was afraid left I fliould be mif- taken in my profpeft, for I longed to get home, and I had vifited all but a few meetings in this < I21 ) land, but the will of the Lord *be done and not mine. Firfl of the week, x i th of 4th month, we went to Horflydown meeting in the forenoon, and in the afternoon went to the burying of dear John Dollin ; a large number of people attended at Grace Church meeting on the occafion. 1 re- mained in and about London until the yearly meeting, taking meetings as they came in courfe in the city, and alfo the meetings of Brentford, Kingfton, Efher, Guildford, Godaiming, Capel, Dorking, Ryegate, Croydon and Deptford; I was glad in taking thefe meetings again, be- lieving it was my place, and feveral Friends ex- preffed to me they were comforted by our viiit, and flrengthened by our fitting together. My heart's deiire is to be humbly thankful to the God of my life, who has been my helper to this day; he has carried me through ftep by ftep in trembling and great fear ; may his glorious aid be with me through time. 1 now lon^ to fee mr way open to return home; it feenis to me to be drawing near, but I do not yet fee the time ; I lately heard my dear hufband was recruiting in his health; this was unexpe£tedfrom thelaff ac- counts I had from him, and it filled my heart with humble thankfuinefs to my heavenly* Mailer, who called me to leave him, and who has done fo much for me, and continues (till to do more than I am worthy of. or dare aik; Tor he hath fpared me my own life and the life of L { 122 )] my dear hufband, and I may fay, I have lacked nothing in my journey from the Lord. 26th of 5th month, the yearly meeting be- gan, and. fecond-day afternoon the women's meeting opened, and I thought the Father of light was there, and the glory of the Lord, and his love filled the houfe; I attended all the meet- ings, and many of them were favoured feafons* After which I changed my lodgings on account of the fmall-pox, and went to Simon Bailey's, where R. Wright has her lodgings ; w 7 e came together again unexpectedly before we took Shipping. I now feel my mind nearly ready to take my leave of this land. Next day we went on board a fhip w-e thought of taking paffage in, and while there I felt very peaceful in mind. After which I accompanied G. Dilwyn, and R. Jones to a meeting of the young men and women fervants, who are Friends in this city. Although I had been thoughtful of returning home, an exercife about going to France arofe, fo that I was obliged to lay it before my dear Friends of the morning meeting, to feel with me in fo weighty a matter, about the 10th of 6th month, and found two other Friends were under a like concern, and my joy was great in my obedience; may the Lord be praifed and obeyed in all things, faith my foul. I attended meetings in courfe in and about London, until the morning meeting, ift of 7th month, when sifter weighing our profpects, our Friends could ( **3 * not fee their way clear to fet its at liberty to go to France. Then continuing attending meet- ings in courfe, in and round the city, my mind was made peaceful about returning home, 2 2d, attended morning meeting of miniilers and elders, and rode kven miles out of London ; had a favoured meeiing and returned, feeling peace to run in my foul as a river, rewarding for performing what was required of me in this land, although it was in a ilammering broken manner,* We rode twenty two miles to Gravefend, ac- companied by many Friends, and meeting many there, had a precious meeting. On the 26th of 7th month, we went oil board the fhip Pigou, Woolman Sutton, commander ; many Friends went with us, and we had a pleafant opportunity again before wp parted. Our company were William Matthews, Zachariah Dicks, Rebecca Wright, Ann Jefibp, and Martha Mooney, a young woman from Ireland. After feven or eight days contrary winds, and feeling poorly, the wind came fair, and we all began 'to grow better, but I felt low in fpirit; Lord, make me contented, and fweeten every bitter cup, for what are my fufterings, accommodated as we are on fhip board, compared with thole of the poor Africans in their- tranfportation to flavery.; ' * About this time it appears fhe was tinder an exercife of mind tc viilt the king, but the w.iy not opening for a perfonal interview at that time, ihe lent him an addrefs, for a copy of v. 7 kich fee Ap- pendix. ( I2 4 ) how my heart feels with them. On firft day, though fick, -I was filled with joy and peace that the world could not give, nor princes clothe my foul with, neither can they take it from me, my cup overflowed in the Lord's goodnefs, his light Ihining through all, to the healing of my poor foul: after many days of deep baptizing ieafons, how fweet it is to receive the joyful found, Well done: Oh, that I might be faithful to the Lord, the remaining part of my days. Firit-day, 2d of 9th month, we had a heavy ftorm; but my mind was fweetly clothed with peace and thankfgiving to the Lord, though the violence of the fea was fuch as to caufe the veflcl. to roll fq as to caft me out of an armed chair, and Z. D. out of his feat, which threw us to the other fide of the cabin, and put out my wrift: but though at firft I felt fome difcouragement, a fecret thought foon ran through me that the Lord might favour me with the help of thofe around to fet it again in its place, and Z. D. and another, took hold of my wrift, and as I told them to pull, it was fet in its place. The weather was fo rough as to prevent our having a meeting this day; but on fifth-day following we were favoured to fit together. Firlt-day, 9th of 9th month, we had a meet- ing on board, faw the land, and took a pilot on board ; and on the 1 oth landed at Philadelphia : our dear friends were very glad to fee us, and I was made thankful to my Lord and Mafler, who had called out, font home, and preferved ( 125 ) my life both outward and inward: furely it was the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in mine eyes. My arm being a little inflamed,, and having fome fever, I was under the doctor's hands white in Philadelphia, fo that I could not attend all the fittings of the yearly meeting, which began the 2 2d and ended the 29th of 9th month. On the 3d of 10th month I fct out with a number of Friends returning from the yearly meeting, and considering the weaknefs of my wrift bore the journey as well as I could expect, and reached Rahway on the 5th, where my friends received me very kindly; I flayed meet- ings on firft-day, the 7th, and both fore and afternoon were favoured meetings. I then proceeded to New- York, was kindly received by Friends, and tarried meeting there, and on fixth-day, the 12th, went on board of a veffel, and landed the 13th at night in Newport. The 14th I rode to Portfmouth meeting, which was a tendering feafori ; and hearing my dear huf- band was very fick, made me prefs forward, and through the kindnefs of friends, I was fa- voured to get home that night, and found my hufband on the recovery, and my children well. ' . Oh how great are the manifold favours re- ceived on this journey; may my fpirit be truly melted under a fenfe of his bleffings, who hath performed all his gracious promifes to me, a poor unworthy creature. By fea and by land, ^3 ( 126 > the Lord lias been my helper; he hath removed mountains and made me paths in the deeps to walk in, praifed be his name; may my foul be ever humbly bowed to him for his continuance with me, all the remainder of my days; may I ierve and obey him in all his commands, how- ever hard to my natural difpofition to fubmit to. With my other dear friends, I met with much love and rejoicing at feeing each other again ; and I have received the wages of Peace. APPENDIX. ADDRESS. To George III. King of Great-Britain, &c A Native of New-England, in North- America, and one of the People called Quakers, begs leave to prefent the following address and petition. M, .AY the Almighty God fave the king, and eftablifh thee and thy feed after thee on thy throne here, and enable thee fo to walk, as that when thou haft done with all things on this iide the grave, admittance may be obtained into the kingdom of everlafting reft and peace! I have often thought of thee in my native land, and fince my refidence here have had to behold how the Lord on high hath bleffed thy kingdom beyond other kingdoms of the earth; and earned defires hath been raifed in my heart for thee, that thou may eft be the chofen of the God in Heaven, to fliew kindnefsunto thofe who are in diftrefs; particularly by flopping the progrefs of flavery, and promoting the freedom of the enflaved negroes in thy dominions, as far as lies f 123 ) in thy power; fo that thy righteous afts may never be erafed from remembrance as long as the world endures — that he by whom kings reign and princes decree juftice, may delight to eflablifti the kingdom over which thou prefides r in righteoufnefs, and that a door may be opened for other nations concerned in that unrighteous traffic, to follow fo laudable an example. The hearts of all men are in the power of God, and he by thy means may turn the hearts of other princes to feel for thofe highly injured and deeply diftreffed people, fo as to rife up and unite in the fame benevolent defigti; and it is my faith, that the firft of them who fhall pub- licly affert their caufe, and open a doo,r for their deliverance, the Lord of the whole earth wilt diftiriguifh by his peculiar favour, and give to rejoice in the experience, that it is indeed righteoufnefs alone that truly exalteth a nation. I had to believe feveral years before I left my* native country, that the Lord would give thee an offer to take the lead; but that if thou re* fufed, he would choofe another to fet up the ftandard of righteoufnefs on this occafion, wherein fo large a part of the inhabitants of the earth are concerned; many of whom are now groaning in thy dominions under oppreffion fufficiently grievous, as I have thought, to afteft the hearts even of the moft obdurate. Mayefl thou, oh king, be earneft in fupplication as one formerly was, whom the Lord Mod High called his fervant, whofaid, " Take from me a ftony ( "9 ) heart, and give me a heart of flefh,"that as Chrift has declared, " They that ait ihall receive/' thine may be tendered and enlarged to defirc and promote the good, not only of thy own people, but of the nations around thee ; and that thou m^yeft be enabled in the time of ex- tremity, to which we are all approaching, to appeal to the Searcher of the heart as good king Hezekiah did, " Thou knoweft how I have walked before thee, with a perfeft heart, and have done that which is good in thy fight." To be thus confeious that thou haft not turned a deaf ear to the cry of the poor and diftreiled, will then be an experience far more enriching than any which the fplendour of a temporal crown can afford; becaufe he the King of kings and Lord of lords hath faid, " Bleffed are the merciful, for they fhall obtain mercy." Oh king, thou art entrufted with great ability to do good under him, who of one blood created all nations, not to opprefs and deftroy one another, but to lend a hand of afliftance where it is needed in our feveral ftations; that looking down on the mutual kindnefs and endeavours of his chil- dren to promote each other's happinefs, he may delight to open the windows of , heaven, and add to the temporate enjoyment of his temporal gifts, the bleffing of his divine favour. Under the influence of this, as I have been fometimes led to pray for thy profperity, it hath been opened to my underilanding, that the Lord did love thee, and that if thou wert faithful in the < *3° ) promotion of rjghteoufnefs, he would blefs thee as he did king Solomon, with both fpiritual and temporal riches, the dew of heaven and fatnefs of the earth; for the earth is the Lord's, and the fullnefs thereof, and he giveth it unto whom- foever it pleafeth him. It is the righteous whd are to enjoy it as an inheritance.. from him, and delight themfelves in abundance of peace; and oh that thou mayeft be of the number, by pro- moting an extention of mercy to the injured and oppreffed Africans. In the hours of folid re- tirement I have been often much affected in viewing their diftrefles, and fined have been in this nation, have believed it required of me as a duty to lay their deplorable cafe before thee, entreating thy interpofition on their behalf; that in the day of inquifition for blood thou mayeft (land clear in the fight of God, by whom not the fayers but the doers of the law will be juf- tified; thofe who obey his injun&ions will par- take of his promifes, and fuch as fow plentifully in faith, will reap accordingly in peace and joy. So wifheth my heart for thee, oh king! Be pleafed to accept favourably this difuuerefled petition; and remember that the Almighty Ruler of the univerfe, though heaven is his throne and the earth his footftool, is not un- mindful of the pooreft among v men, but gra- cioufly condefcends to hear and anfwer their petitions, having declared that " For the cry of the poor and fighing of the needy he will arife." PATIENCE BRAYTON. London, 23d of 7th mo. 1787. ( & ) Letter received by P. B. while in England, Friend, THAT love that thinketh no evil, and re- joiceth in the truth, conflraineth me to fay, that your exhortation on Wednefday evening was fuited to my cafe or ftate. I am* humbly thankful God hath not left me without his witnefs in my heart, and alfo that he hath in- clined you to point me out. May I humbly arid patiently wait his time of deliverance, and follow, by faith, his fiery and cloudy pillar, all through this howling wildernefs. I have, I humbly hope, preached Jefus Chrift, but not in your focieties, and I hope in a good Hieafure with a fingle eye to the glory of God. But, having lately been exercifed with many and fevere trials, from the profcffihg Churchy have been led to retire more inward, to com- mune with my own heart and be flill. I fee my own ignorance, my will worfhip, my forms and modes, and Goipel fchemes, my unfeeling prayers, and often unieafonable preaching with- out fpirit and life, as only rifmg from a carnal mind, which is enmity againft God, and the imagination exalting itfelf againft him. From fix years of age I have tailed, at feaibns, divine love and favour; but I muft lament that I have too, too often loft the favour of his precious truths ; may it be fo no more ! Many times (like Ifrael,) have I been delivered; and as ( B? ) often like them have I provoked him by-dif- fcrufl, &c. yea he hath chaftifed me, and I have been like a bullock nnaccuftomed to the yoke. Ah! that I might be fo moulded into his heavenly image, and daily learn to fay experi- mentally, " Thy will be done." He indeed renewed his love to me, that- evening, and fince, he hath caufed his grace to diftil as the dew, and has given me to know, that in his own time and way, he will lengthen my cords and ftrengthen my flakes, and caufe me to break out on the right and on the left. I feel my fpirit melting while I write this, with the tendered love and affe&ion towards you, that minifter in the word, and towards your Societies ; I joy in your joys, and fhould ibrrow in your farrows, did I know them. Pardon me if I go too far in faying, that I have feen in my mind what the Lord will do in his own time : Antichri-ft will fall with all his powers, and a pure primitive church, perhaps like thine, arife out of his ruin, for in the evening time, it fhall be light — and that fhall ihine brighter and brighter to the perfect day. I have been burthened with the weight of awful fearful apprehenfion, that the Lord God hath a controverfy with us, as a nation, laden with iniquity ; his hand has been — ^is— and will be ftretched out againft us, if w r e do not repent, and turn to him with all our minds. Ah Friends, 1 know by many years experience, though I am but a young man, that if you are ( *33 ) faithful to reprove, publicly and privately, you will fufFer perfecution, perhaps even among fome of your own whole hearted people, for all are not Ifrael (that are born of Ifrael ;) but continue you faithful unto death, and you know, who hath faid, he will give you a crown of life. I conclude, may the peace of God rule in your hearts, and may you be ftirred up to thankfulnefs to him in your fpirit, on my account ; and may all who heard you that evening, if he fo will, meet to praife for ever. As to me, at a fuitable feafon, thy people flrall be mine ; I will live and die in their com- munion, and among them will I, if I can and the Lord pleafe, be buried. Thy God is my God, and to his grace I am a.great debtor. When you find freedom in prayer, remembej: you affectionate friend, * * * * ANSWER TO THE FOREGOING LETTER, Dear Friend, I received the letter thou fent me : I wifh well to all mankind, and efpecially to the truly feeking foul, that has nothing in view but" its own falvation and redemption from this vain world and its enticements ; fuch will the Lord help, and Will not fufFer them to fell, but will uphold thefe, and carry them through the wil- dernefs, to the praife of his great name. Oh 1 M ( *34 ) that thy truft may be- in hira alone ; do not let thy eye be outward to human power, and the wifdom of men ; it is laid of Nimrod, that he was a mighty hunter before the Lord ; he iet up Babel and was confounded ; no build- ing will ffcand but the Lord's building, in the day of account that is coming on all flefh, and I wifh that thou mayeft be favoured to dwell low and humble as at the feet of Jefus, a fafe guide that leads all right, he is the way, the truth, and the life. One formerly could anfwer him and fay, thou art Chrift the fon of the living God ; and the Lord bleffed him, and faid that flefh and blood had not revealed it unto him, but his Father which is in heaven; and further faid, thou art Peter, and upon this ^rock will I build my church, and the gates of hell (hall not prevail againft it, I believe all tjiofe that take him for a guide will be built on that rock, will be led in the way of life, and kept from falling y for he will difcover by his enlightening virtue the many fnares that the enemy of man's happinefs is fecretly laying for them; the Lord will difcover all his works, both fmall and great, to us poor creatures, and enable man to cry earneftly to be delivered from every temptation ; oh, then man will witnefs the Lord to be near, and to be our helper in every needful time, plucking him out of the hand of our enemies, whether outward or inward ; thofe that truft in him with a fin- cere heart none fhall be able to pluck thei» ( *35 ) out of the Lord's hand, for he that is willing to undergo any thing for the Lord's fake, will have it made delightful to turn his cheek to the fmiter ; he will make hard things eafy, and we fhall count it our joy to be in fuffering itrith him, and be crucified to the world, and the world unto us ; all our joys will be in hea- ven and upon heavenly things ; defires will be raifed with that love and peace that the world cannot give ; we fhall want all mankind to partake of the fame, and fhall be favored to -pray for our enemies, that the Lord may turn their hearts to that love that wiiheth well to all mankind. We have need to wait low and be thoroughly waftied and purged from dark works and dark imaginations to ferve the Irving God, that dwells in light, and that light will influence our hearts one to another, fb that we may witnefs the faying of, " Woe is me if I preach not the Gofpel :" feel often that neceility, for it is the love of God fpread abroad in the heart, defiring the welfare of all men, that they may witnefs a change from corrup- tion and fin, fo as to put on Chrifl with his deeds of righteoufnefs. Oh, dear friend, fuch will the Lord uphold with his free fpirit, and will fet bounds to the proud waves, that they fhall go fo far and no farther ; for the Lord will not fuffer the honed in heart to be tempted beyond what they are able to bear ; we have an High Prieft that is touched with a feeling of all our infirmities, and (lands ready to help M 2 ( 136 ) the needy foul, that longs to be delivered from all fin, that fecret and public evils may be purged away, and it be prefented to the Lord without fpot or wrinkle ; oh, the Lord's love and mercy will be extended to thefe, for neither grace nor truth, nor any good thing will he '•withhold from thofe who love him : I may fay, in my little meafure of experience, .that it hath not entered into the heart of man to conceive the good things that the Lord hath in ftore for them that love him ; for he is rich to all them that call upon him with a fincere heart, defiring to be made fit for his kingdom ; to learn con- tentment with godlinefs, which is great gain, for a contented mind is a continual feaft ; may this be thy happy lot is the fincere deiire of one who wifheth well to all mankind, and who hath left all that is near and dear in this world, for the fake of my e>wn peace and the good of fouls, to perfuade mankind to flee from the wrath to come, upon thofe who die in their fins. If I have been an inftrument in the Lord's hand to do any good, may the Lord have the praife of his own works, and may no honour be given to the inftrument ; for he is pleafed to make cjay with fpittle, and anoint the eyes of the blind, and I look upon myfelf lefs than that clay ; but it was the Lord's power that wrought the mirkcle of old, and may he, faith my foul, have the praife of his : oh, that I may not rob God of his own glory, for he ( .*37 ) will not give his praife unto graven images. nor his honour unco another; may thy mind therefore be turned unto him, who is able to forgive all thy fins, and blot out all thy ini- quities ; he will not only open the eyes to fee, but will heal all infirmities ; he will make the lame to walk, the dumb to fpeak, heal the fick, and raife the dead ; — may thou be truly raifed from the dead works, to ferve the living and eternal God. I am very defirous that thou mayeft be made a ferviceable man in the Lord's hand, and do good in his houfe, which will be more to thee in a dying hour than all the riches that this world can give. My very fpirit prayeth for thy welfare in the Lord, fo fare- wel. I remain thy weil-wilhing friend, P. B, SECOND LETTER, FROM THE WRITER OF THE FI&ST. Dear Friend, BLESSED, for ever blefTed, be that holy Lord God, who inclined thy heart to write to fne the mod unworthy and lefs than the lead of all, and who while reading, laid truly low all Lofty thoughts and vain -imaginations, fweet- ly inclining my (alas! too ftubborn) will, to- rcfign itfelf like clay into the hands of the pot- M3 ( ^ ) ter, to mould and fafhion me into his own image and likenefs. My fpirit truly unites with thine, in a man^- ner which words cannot convey — fain would my will reft on this fide Jordan, fettling on my lees, and relinquifh a work which I am called to, and which thy mind hath been led out con- cerning, on my account ; but now I am again revived and renewed, and my language is, Here am I, fend me : but there are many ob- ftacles in my way ; I am no Quaker by pro- feffion, nor do I know whom at prefent to open my mind to, on that fubjeft ; I am made willing to part with any thing and every thing, in the Lord's ftrength, for his glory ; nor do I count riches, acquirements, friendfhip, nor life itfelf, dear unto me, fo that I may finifh my courfe with joy, and the minilhy which I am more than perfuaded I Jiave received of him. Oh! that he would make crooked paths ftraight before me — Oh ! that he would lengthen my cords and ftrengthen my flakes, that he would caufe me to break out on the right and the left — Oh ! that he would burft my bonds afunder, and make me, though only as it were clay and fpittle, ufeful — Oh! that I may ±>e tvholly given up to him, fo as to truft in him at all times, and walk continually before him In the light of his reconciled countenance. My work, I clearly fee, is to thofe who are -at eafe in Zion, to thofe who hold the form wd eteny the power, to thofe who are dwel- ( '39 ) ling at eafe in their own fenced cities, in walled towns, whofe arguments are to them as chariots of iron; my work will be my wages, it will be in my mouth fweet as honey, and bitter as gall in my belly, Perfecution and peculiar trials will await me : but in all thefe things we are more than conquerors, through him that loveth us. Alas ! fuch is my ignorance, I am fearful to proceed, left I darken counfel with words without knowledge. Go on, dear wo- man, and preach Jefus Chrift, the fame yefter- day, to-day, and for ever ; and fulfil the faying, that women out of weaknefs were made ftrong in word, valiant in fight, and put to flight the armies of the aliens : every battle of the war- riors is with confuted noife, but this fhall be with the fharp two-edged fword of divine power, and fpirit of burning : here no human faculties (or art) can prevail, and all human wifdom and ftrength mud fall : here the young man fhall utterly faint and be weary, but they that truft in the Lord fhall do valiantly. May all concerned wait fcr the noife over the mul- berry-trees, and never, like Saul, enter the battle without the fignal ; but let God arife, and fo {hall his enemies be fcattered — the people will be as grafs before him, while his doftrine, like the rain or like the dew, {hall diftil ; and they {hall fpring up with -clear fpringings after rain. But perhaps I fhall write too much : I feel my fpirit ea?neftly praying fo? thee, and the' ( FJ*> ) fuccefs of thy miniftry ; oh ! may king Jefus .go forth from conquering and to conquer, and may all the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our Lord and his Chrift. Ah ! would the Lord be pleafed to ufe fo unworthy a creature as I am, he would get all the praife ; but all falls fhort to exalt his glories, and all falls fhort to defcribe my nothingnefs, igno- rance, and depravity — All! join me, reader, to give him all the glory ate our All in All*. Keep filence before hkn, O my foul, in thy primitive nothingnefs, duft ; and be thou ex- alted, O my Redeemer, in all men's hearts-, far above all bleflings and praife. Dear friend, 'tis true all our enemies are forgiven, and eafily fo, when we can fay ex- perimentally, My beloved 'is- mine, and I am his-: he feeds among the lilies of the valley, thofe who are truly humble and contrite, who when laden with dew put down their, heads as over- whelmed with love and gratitude, and wliofe amiable walking makes them white and beau- tiful : here is fweet contentment and reft; bread {hall be given fuch, and their water fhall be fure— having food and raiment, fuch are di* vinely content, fuch as are below pride, and above want — Oh, happy, happy heavenly ex^ perience ; blefled are they who are in fuch a ftate;. yea bleffed are the people whofe God is the Lord. From hence, farewel prejudice to real friends — Farewel, love of the world — Fare* C Mi ) Wei, trull la vain imagination— Oh ! that I coyld fay to that many-headed monfter, felf, Farewel too; but fome Canaanites of that kind will perhaps remain, like the leprofy in the walls of the houfe, to try us and to prove us, that we- may fight in the Lord's ftrength, and drive them from their ftrong holds. To him who hath made thee as my fifter, that fucked the breafls of my mother, be all glory now and for ever. Letter to a Friend.^ Gkucejler > Old-England, ioth of 9th mo. 1786* To D. S. Swanfey, New-England. Beloved Friend, I LONG to fee the time come that I may be clear of this land ; but I defire patiently to wait the Lord's time, for I am fo dry and barren, that it feems as if I could do no good: my baptifms have been greater than my tongue can exprefs ; yet the Lord my God has borne me up, and enabled me to ftep along in fear and trembling, and has been my meat and my drink. The inward cry of n)y heart has been, that I may be kept from doing any thing that would caufe the truth to be evily fpoken of. Oh, my dear, I truft thou canft read and tafte with me, for I believe we have been dipped into the fame river ; fo that we have ( H2 ) felt the breathings of each other, when fa? feparated one from another. I believe the Lord is about to (hake the dry bones in the valley, and bring them toge- ther, bone to its bone, and breathe the breath of life on them. There are many of the youth of this land, who look promifmg ; but it is hard to aroufe thofe who are at eafe, which makes hard work for faithful labourers, who long to fee alt un- due liberties removed. I find the fcattered up and down as I travel along, that groan to be delivered ; and I have been made glad to fit and feel with them here, as I often did feel with the lonely, when at home. It has been a comfort to me, that the Father of all fure mercies puts us in mind of each other, with ftrong defires for the prefervation of his breathing feed ; they are made near to my life all the world over ; and I truft the good Shepherd will gather many from the barren mountains afad defolated hills of an empty pro*- feffion, unto himfelf. I do remember the many pleafant feafons we have had together, and indeed with all my friends there ; how our fpirits have been re- freflied together in love, and the bleffed ihowers have defcended, to the watering of the very hindmoft of the flock and family. Thofe times are brought frelh to my remem- brance while I am writing ; but oh, the ftrip- ping feafons I often feel \ however, my Lord ( 143 ) and Mailer works for me, and enables me to truft in him, who hath fo many times revivedmy fainting foul, fo that I may call him a good Mailer ; and I believe that in his time the lily of the valley will' bud and bloffom as the rofe, to bring about his glorious purpofe, to raife the low and call down the exalted ; that they may know that the Moft High rules in the domi- nions of men. In love, I conclude thy affe&ionate friend, PATIENCE BRAYTON. To her Daughter. Namptwich, Old England, 25th of 2d mo. 1785. Dear Child, Hannah Brayton, I have had rhee in my mind for many days, with frefh remembrance what a dutiful child thou haft been in the outward concerns of life. O my dear, I truft there is a bleinng for thee in (tore, and I hope thou wilt labour for that bleffing that fadeth not away; that the dew of heaven may reft upon thee in all thy under- takings; and if the Lord becomes thy director, thou wilt be dire&ed aright, both in divine and outward tilings. O, my dear, I long to be more and more given up to the" Lord's re- quirings, whether I ever fee thee more or not j ( *44 ) although thou feetefl: nearer to me than I can relate with pen; the favours of heaven I feelfo near at times, furmounts all other confidera- tions ; when that abates I long to lee thee again, but I hope to more and more learn patience, in all my fleppings along in this life, for I fee the want of it more now than ever, m order to keep me low and humble : if I am exalted at any of thefe favours, then I fhall be in great danger — I am ready to tremble, feeing the work fo great. Oh, my dear child, though nature brings thee into my mind with nearnefs, yet believing there is one rich rewarder to them that hold out to the end, fo, my dear, be kind to the poor, and defire the Lord to open thine ear to their cry, and tender thy heart towards them ; for thofe that do not hear the cry of thofe that (land in need, may cry themfelves, and not be heard. I remain thy affe&ionate mother, PATIENCE BRAYTOlf FINIS* £W, Phillips Printer. j[ 7. H acX: «X «X« X' ^c^z^^csj^sbczi - ^r~c <^JzXj*Z^*sCir r ^s]Cc ^CT <^€ ^" -^'~ ^>^>^ v^rr^'T *^lr^~ -