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EXTRACTS 
 
 FROM 
 
 LETTERS AND OTHER PIECES, 
 
 WKITTEBT BY 
 
 MARGARET JACKSON, 
 
 DURING HER LAST ILLNESS. 
 
 PHILADELrHIA: 
 
 BENJAMIN & THOMAS KITE, 
 
 NO. 20, NORTH THIRD STREET, 
 
 1825. 
 
:^1- K621 
 
 
 »KERRETT leCCST STRIET, 
 
 PHltADElPHIA. 
 
INTRODUCTION. 
 
 Margaret Jackson was daughter of 
 Thomas and Biddy Jackson of Eden- 
 derry, in the King's County: she died 
 at Moate, in the County of Westmeath, 
 in the prime of life, on the 16th of se- 
 cond month, 1822. Her last illness was 
 of several years' duration, and the lin- 
 gering progress of the disease was at- 
 tended with severe bodily suffering. In 
 its earlier stages she passed through dis- 
 tressing mental conflicts, arising from 
 an apprehension of unfitness for the ap- 
 proaching awful change; yet these trials 
 appear to have been permitted in mercy 
 for her refinement — through the Re- 
 deemer's love she was brought to a 
 state of peaceful resignation, raised in a 
 remarkable manner above her suffer- 
 ings, supported under extreme and pro- 
 tracted weakness, and enabled to rejoice 
 in the hope of a glorious inheritance. 
 In this favoured situation she felt a deep 
 
IV 
 
 solicitude for the welfare of others, and 
 under the influence thereof she often 
 imparted lively and pathetic counsel to 
 those who visited her: — the sweet im- 
 pressions that accompanied these com- 
 munications are still fresh in the me- 
 mory of some. Nor was it only to- 
 wards such of her near relatives and 
 friends as were from time to time in- 
 troduced to her chamber that her affec- 
 tionate feelings were thus awakened; 
 she earnestly desired that all who suffer 
 the cares of this uncertain world, or its 
 transitory enjoyments, to usurp the chief 
 place in their hearts, might be aroused 
 to a sense of their dangerous situation, 
 and induced to seek fii^st the kingdom 
 of heaven; that, learning of Him who 
 is " meek and lowly of heart," they 
 might, at a time when all human sup- 
 port and consolation are unavailing, ex- 
 perience the fulfilment of His gracious 
 promise, ^' ye shall find rest unto your 
 souls." 
 
 It was during this illness, and chiefly 
 in the more advanced part of it, when al- 
 together deprived of the power of speech, 
 
that the manuscripts were written from 
 which the following pages are selected. 
 Some of them were designed by the 
 writer for individuals to whom they 
 were addressed; but the greater part, 
 It is beheved, were intended for more 
 general use, and of these there has been 
 very little omitted. It is hoped the sim- 
 ple language in which her sentiments 
 are conveyed, will not prevent their fa- 
 vourable reception by tJie reader; and 
 that the circumstances under which they 
 were written, whilst they entitle them 
 to his indulgence, wiU give them an ad- 
 ditional claim to his attention. 
 
LETTERS, &c. 
 
 To her Sister Jlnne. 
 
 7th of 12th month, 1819. 
 
 ' My very dear and tender sister Anne, 
 who hast been to me an affectionate attend- 
 ant through my long- protracted iHness, 
 which, no doubt, hath tried th}' natural feel- 
 ings ; but thou must be sensible that the arm 
 of Omnipotence must have supported thee, 
 or thou should have long since given up.* 
 Mayest thou, my beloved sister, be reward- 
 ed for thy kindness to me by Him, who hath 
 seen meet to afflict me with many near trials. 
 Thou hast many times been eye-witness to 
 my very weak state, yet through all, my 
 mind has been for the most part preserved 
 in a good degree of patience and resignation 
 to the Divine will. 
 
 ^ It has at times occurred to me, that I 
 might not be able to disclose my mind so 
 fully to my dearest sister verbally, as 1 might 
 do by committing at times to paper^ the sin» 
 
8 
 
 cere desires I feel for thy everlasting wel- 
 fare ; and may also let thee know a little of 
 my own experience, which has been more 
 circumscribed than I believe it should, if I 
 had been faithful to the convictions of my 
 internal, sure monitor. — Oh ! my beloved 
 sister, never stifle its reproofs, but look unto 
 it as thy guide and conductor through time; 
 and such it will prove, if sought after, for it 
 is nothing less than the strivings of the Holy 
 Spirit, to turn our hearts from the evil to 
 which we are naturally prone. Many times, 
 since I have been in part separated from the 
 busy world, have I had cause for deep and 
 silent mourning, that I did not attend more 
 closely to little intimations in my own mind, 
 which would have saved me many bitter re- 
 flections on a sick bed, when the most tri- 
 fling omission in time of health will be 
 brought to our view : and. Oh ! what a mercy 
 that we are favoured to see our great un- 
 worthiness, and to feel that we have been 
 transgressors: but it is a sad thing to delay 
 the work of repentance till the hour of sick- 
 ness ; and though I trust I have not been 
 guilty of many gross crimes, yet I know I 
 have much need of repentance, and prepara- 
 tion for an inheritance among the blessed, 
 "whuse robes have been washed and made 
 white in 'the blood of the dear Son of God, 
 our Saviour and Redeemer, who suffered 
 
the cruel death of the cross, in order to be- 
 Gorae a propitiation for our sins, and who^ 
 when he was reviled, reviled not again, but 
 submitted in all the sufferings he endured, 
 to the will of Him, who sent him into the 
 world, and permitted trials to assail him, 
 hard to flesh and blood to bear — yet he never 
 murmured : and surely, any suffering these 
 poor bodies may have to bear whilst clothed 
 with mortality, is nothing comparable to 
 what our blessed Lord himself passed 
 through for our sakes ; our trials in mutabi- 
 lity matter little, but, on the contrary, are 
 in mercy dispensed to us, in order to pre- 
 pare our souls for an entrance into the joyful 
 confines of eternity, where the wicked cease 
 from troubling, and the weary soul is at rest, 
 and where all sorrow and sighing shall flee 
 away.' 
 
 IS mo. 13. — ^ Several of my kind friends 
 paid me a visit this forenoon. — My mind has 
 been impressed with an awful feeling on 
 
 hearing of the dissolution of , and I am 
 
 almost ready to wish it should please my 
 Heavenly Father to take me also, if I were 
 prepared, but I fear I am not. Oh ! that I 
 may embrace the present opportunity which 
 is in great mercy granted me ; I am sensible 
 that I stand in need of preparation for a 
 blessed immortality, and I may with grati- 
 
10 
 
 tude acknowledge, that T hojpe and believe in 
 the mercy of my dear Redeemer, who will- 
 eth not that any should perish : I trust that 
 I may be admitted even to the lowest man- 
 sion in my Heavenly Father's kingdom. 
 
 ' I have been tried at times during my 
 long illness, with deep poverty of spirit^ 
 Avhen I have been almost ready to fear the 
 Almighty had forsaken me ; but it was mer- 
 cifully permitted, to try my faith and love 
 to Him, for whom I trust both are unshaken. 
 I have been at other times amply compen- 
 sated for this desertion by comfortable, re- 
 freshing seasons, wherein I was favoured 
 with a full assurance of the love of my Hea- 
 venly Father towards me. Oh ! may this be 
 the experience of thee my dearest sister, 
 whom I feel to be the greatest tie I have to 
 this world ; but let me tenderly entreat that 
 thou wilt not slight the day of small things 
 — attend closely to the dictates of thy own 
 conscience, which may warn thee to give up 
 some things that may be repugnant to thy 
 nature to part with ; but, my dearly beloved 
 Anne, shrink not, be willing to surrender 
 every thing required at thy hand, think no- 
 thing too near nor too dear to part with in this 
 world to gain the soul's salvation. What 
 are all the fashions, vanities, and pleasures 
 of this probationary state, when compared 
 with eternal and everlasting felicity ? I think 
 
11 
 
 I could make a cheerful exchange, and I 
 feel thankful that my mind is in a good de- 
 gree weaned from subhinary things. I trust 
 I shall know a total surrender of every thing 
 earthly, that may obstruct the work of righte- 
 ousness in my soul; which will only produce 
 solid peace, and the effect thereof, '* quiet- 
 ness and assurance for ever.'' ' 
 
 1820, 1 mo. 5. — ^Oh! may our future 
 days be devoted to the service of our Hea- 
 venly Father! — for my put, I have not 
 much expectation of my life being prolong- 
 ed, as 1 feel my disease making slow, but 
 sure ravages on my weakened constitution, 
 though much has been done to mitigate it, 
 I feel more gratitude than words can ex- 
 press, for all the kindness I have experi- 
 enced during my long illness. — If Provi- 
 dence be pleased to lengthen my life, I sin- 
 cerely hope he will enable me to live wholly 
 to serve and advance his great cause in 
 righteousness ; for I now^ see there is more 
 comfort to be felt under his glorious banner, 
 than amidst all the glittering pleasures of 
 the world, which I entreat thee, my dearly 
 beloved sister to relinquish, and place thy 
 hopes on pure religion, which alone will 
 stand thy solace in the hour of trial ; and 
 when the time of dissolution arrives, thou 
 wilt then find, when all other comforts fail. 
 
1^ 
 
 religion will prove thy true comforter; — seek 
 her whilst in health, before all the flattering 
 delusions of this state of mutability. I never 
 before saw the emptiness and folly of the 
 world as I do now; and I wish all would be 
 warned to see the foUy of terrestrial enjoy- 
 ments ere it is too late — before the aw il 
 trumpet sound. Oh ! that all my acquaint- 
 ance knew my sentiments now, and would 
 take warning, to make a timely preparation 
 for their final change, which I hope may be 
 well with all : I may truly say, I love the 
 whole of mankind, but more particularly 
 those who espouse the cause of our blessed 
 Redeemer. — It is never too soon to begin a 
 preparation for death — did we ever hear of 
 any who thought on a death bed they had 
 begun to prepare too early? — Oh, no!' 
 
 2 mo. 1. — ^This day my mind is impress- 
 ed with an awful feeling, on hearing of an- 
 other of my friends being laid in the silent 
 
 grave, who, I trust, has made a happy 
 
 exchange. I feel much for his dear parents 
 in their tried situation. — Those ^* whom the 
 Lord loveth he chasteneth.'' When I think 
 of the slender thread my life appears to be 
 held by, 1 cannot but marvel at the wonderful 
 kindness of my Heavenly Father, in prolong- 
 ing it far beyond my friends' or my own ex- 
 pectation, having been, as it were, often 
 
13 
 
 rescued from the jaws of death; but my mer- 
 ciful Saviour has seen meet to try me, ia 
 order to pur^e me from the dross of this 
 wicked world, that I may yet become an in- 
 habitant of the celestial city ; which will 
 more than compensate for any sufl'ering oa 
 earth. 
 
 ^ I frequently lament the sad devastation 
 and corruption which have crept in, and gain- 
 ed admittance amongst the members of our 
 highly-favoured society, many of whom, in 
 early times, suffered sore and hard persecu- 
 tions for the cause of truth, over which none 
 of their enemies ever were able to prevail ; 
 and it is as powerful now as then to preserve 
 those who espouse it. But how few there 
 are w^ho stand as valiants to support their 
 principles as they should ; — how is the testi- 
 mony neglected and let fall to the ground, by 
 which many have suffered great loss both 
 spiritually and temporally. I have often been 
 grieved to hear and behold the conduct of 
 our young people of both sexes, their dress 
 and address so inconsistent with the profes- 
 sion they make; bow can they suppose such 
 can accord with the design of our all-wise 
 Creator, who, I am convinced, would have 
 us separated from the world, that is, the 
 customs and fashions of it, and that we 
 should walk in simplicity and humility as 
 becoming the followers of a crucified Saviour^ 
 
14i 
 
 who was ^•ineek and lowl;^ in heart," and 
 warned [taught] his disciples to be so, even 
 as he was. 1 hope all will, ere long, see 
 their error, and come to behold the beauty 
 there is in the unchangeable truth ; let us 
 consider how dearly our predecessors pur- 
 chased the many privileges we now enjoy, 
 and yet, how do we slight them ! I think 
 there is a great degradation in being asham- 
 ed of our profession, or of appearing singu- 
 lar : such was my idea when in converse with 
 those not of our society, I was not ashamed 
 to address them in a plain way, which I now 
 find the advantage of; I have not to reproach 
 myself with having denied the language of 
 my blessed Redeemer, who died for me as 
 for all mankind, though I have fallen far 
 short of what I should ; but we all have a 
 merciful Judge to appear before, who is just 
 in all his ways, and is no respecter of per- 
 sons ; — let us only believe, and we shall 
 have all we require, that our Heavenly 
 Father sees meet we should enjoy. — A firm 
 belief, and an unshaken confidence in his 
 all- sufficiency, are great attainments, and 
 well worthy our seeking. 
 
 ^ Thy truly attached sister, 
 
 M. J." 
 
15 
 
 To a Young Woman, then in a declinuig 
 state of health. 
 
 S9th of 7tli month, 1820, 
 
 My dear 
 
 * I have often enquired of thy weak state, 
 and hear with concern that thou art not get- 
 ting better, which account I dare say thou 
 receivest of me, having frequently heard of 
 thy kind enquiries after me ; — but, my dear 
 young creature, I never expect to be better 
 in this world. — I sincerely wish that we may 
 both be seeking a city, whose builder and 
 maker is God ; and let us, I entreat of thee, 
 endeavour to be preparing to become worthy 
 of an entrance therein, as there are none of 
 us but require refinement from the delusive 
 pleasures and corruptions of a vain and de- 
 ceitful world ; and I rejoice to say, that the 
 Almighty has enabled me to see the vanity 
 of all terrestrial enjoyments, and that I must 
 place my future hope in his all-sufBciency, 
 which is alone able to sustain in the midst of 
 every affliction. — He hath in his goodness, 
 seen meet to stain in my view every thing 
 that is contrary to his Divine will ; and, Oh I 
 my dear may this be thy happy experi- 
 
16 
 
 cnce — nia3'est thou feel a total resignation to 
 the will of thy Heavenly Father, that whe- 
 ther he is pleased to call thee from this state 
 of mutability now, or to prolong thy life, 
 thou uiayest he content; and remember, that 
 those who place a confidence in his good- 
 ness, and feel a surrender of every gratifica- 
 tion, so that they can say with sincerity of 
 heart, " Not my will but thine be done, O 
 Lord,'^ they will never be disappointed. I 
 sincerely hope thy mind may be preserved 
 in a state of quietude and peace, which the 
 world can never deprive thee of; and for- 
 get not that we have a merciful Redeemer to 
 plead for us, w^ho is just in all his ways, and 
 is no respecter of persons, but all who fear 
 God and work righteousness will be accept- 
 ed by him. 
 
 ' I am too weak to write more, but wished 
 to send thee a token of my love, which I fear 
 can hardly be read. — Believe me thy sincere 
 well wisher, 
 
 M. J.' 
 
 1820, 7 nio. 30. — On waking in the morn- 
 ing she prayed most fervently for her dear 
 brother and sisters, that they might be pre- 
 served from the many temptations of this 
 wicked world ; then for all her near and dear 
 
17 
 
 relations, and finally for the whole family 
 of mankind. 
 
 10 mo. 2. — ^ I have oft mourned when I 
 have reflected on the state of our society, and 
 the departure of many of its youth from first 
 principles, which many of our pious prede- 
 cessors suflfered deeply to maintain, by im- 
 prisonment and persecution various ways, 
 even to the loss of life ; may they seriously 
 consider the impropriety of deviating from 
 simplicity and plainness in dress and ad- 
 dress, as unbecoming the followers of a meek 
 and crucified Saviour, who declared that his 
 kingdom was not of this world. May they 
 be induced to keep within the holy enclo- 
 sure, which is a hedge of preservation against 
 the many snares that abound in a delusive 
 world, and remember their Creator in the 
 days of their youth, surrendering their wills 
 to the Divine will, to be moulded and 
 fashioned according to his good pleasure — 
 he alone knows what is best. May they re- 
 turn, and that ere long, to the Captain of 
 their salvation, that so our society may yet 
 flourish in primitive purity. 
 
 ' I have felt dreadful apprehensions for 
 those who continue unregenerate, going on in 
 the wild career of sensual earthly pleasu3<;s, 
 
18 
 
 forgetful of hereafter, not considering they 
 know not how soon the trumpet may sound, 
 and summon the soul before the dread tri- 
 bunal, there to render account of the deeds 
 done in these bodies, given to perform his 
 will.' 
 
 About the beginning of the Tenth month, 
 1820, when enfeebled to an extreme degree 
 by an illness, at that period of more than 
 eighteen months continuance, she received a 
 visit from Nathan Hunt, a minister from 
 America, to whom, as well as to herself, it 
 was rendered memorable by the remarkable 
 extension of divine favour ; — on leaving the 
 chamber, he signified to a friend present, 
 that although he had often visited the cham- 
 bers of the isick, he had never been in such 
 a one as her's. so near did her dwelling ap- 
 pear to be to the source of all good. The fol- 
 lowing is a copy of a communication made 
 to this friend afterwards at her request : — 
 
 ^^ Margaret Jackson sends her dear, very 
 dear love to her valued friend Nathan Hunt 
 and his companion, tbinks it would be ac- 
 ceptable to them to hear that her happiness 
 and peace of mind have increased, since she 
 iad the peculiar privilege of a visit from 
 
19 
 
 iiim ; and she sincerely desires tliey may be 
 favoured to return to their native land with 
 the reward of peace, — sweet peace, which 
 the world cannot give nor take away, and 
 finally receive the crown in store for the 
 righteous. — May we all be permitted to meet 
 within the pearl gates." 
 
 A female friend on going into her room 
 on first-day evening, the 15th of lOih month, 
 heard her commenting on several parts of 
 Scripture, concluding with (Psalm xxiii.) 
 ^•The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not 
 ^' want. He maketli me to lie down in green 
 ^^ pastures, he leadeth me beside the still wa- 
 ^^ ters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth 
 ^^ me in the paths of righteousness for his 
 ^^ name's sake. Yea, though I walk through 
 '^ the valley of the shadow of death, 1 will 
 '' fear no evil ; for thou art with me ; thy rod 
 ^^ and thy staff they comfort me. Thou pre- 
 " parest a table before me in the presence of 
 '^ mine enemies : thou anointest my head 
 *' with oil ; my cup runneth over. Surely 
 <' goodness and mercy shall follow me all 
 ^^ the days of my life; and I will dwell in 
 *^ the house of the Lord for ever." 
 
 She saw almost all her acquaintances and 
 friends; and exhorted and encouraged them 
 
so 
 
 to love, serve, and trust in the Almighty, 
 and that when they came on a sick bed, they 
 would find the advantage of it ; and also ex- 
 pressed a wish, that her young friends would 
 keep to the simplicity of truth in dress and 
 address in their intercourse with the world. 
 
 10 mo. S2. — On some of her cousins com- 
 ing to see her after meeting, she was ena- 
 bled, though very weak, to speak to them 
 for a length of time ; the particulars cannot 
 be recollected. Her prayer was beyond ex- 
 pression beautiful ; and on their leaving her, 
 she took a most affectionate farewel. 
 
 10 mo. 29. — ^ I wish that all the young 
 people who call themselves Quakers, and 
 who profess to be guided by the unerring 
 Spirit of Truth, knew the concern that has 
 attended my mind, that they should not 
 launch out into gaiety of dress ; for though 
 I have no idea that religion consists entirely 
 in a plain exterior, yet this I believe, and 
 am fully convinced, that if our hearts be 
 truly devoted to serve the Lord, and to love 
 him above every thing, our inclinations will 
 not prompt us to follow the superfluous 
 
2i 
 
 fashions of the world ; tlie false pleasures of 
 which can never afford us true and solid 
 peace, which the Almighty has promised to 
 give unto his faithful followers, who take up 
 their cross^ and live a life of self-denial for 
 his sake, who alone is worthy to be served, 
 honoured, and obeyed. The truth of this I 
 now declare — Marvellous are thy works, O 
 Lord, my Redeemer, and that my soul 
 knoweth right well ! 
 
 * These deviations have given me much 
 pain of mind both in health and sickness, 
 which has been much increased since laid on 
 a sick bed, on reflecting that many who are 
 members of our highly favoured society, have 
 suffered the temptations of a cunning enemy 
 to prevail in turning them aside from the 
 strait and narrow way, which is the only 
 sure way to eternal happiness, and will 
 alone ensure us peace of mind during our 
 passage through this deceitful and uncertain 
 world. I warn you not to be decking and 
 adorning these poor bodies, which must ere 
 long be consigned to their native clay — let 
 your adorning be that of a meek and quiet 
 spirit, which is in the sight of God of great 
 price: — consider the good of your immortal 
 souls, which must be either happy or miser- 
 able in a never-ending eternity ; and the 
 youngest of you know not how soon the 
 summons of death may reach your ears.' 
 
10 mo. 30. — ^I should wish such of my 
 young acquaintances as may be inclined, to 
 attend my funeral; perhaps it might impress 
 on their minds serious thoughts of their latter 
 end, wbich has been my own experience on 
 seeing the remains of a fellow-creature laid 
 in the silent grave. It is with a view of 
 doing good that I invite my young friends, 
 as it matters little to me whether many or 
 few attend the solemn closing scene ; but 
 remember that I am young, and cut down 
 in the flower of my youth, wliich may be the 
 case with some of you, for the old must go, 
 and the young may go. Do not put off the 
 important work of your souPs salvation to a 
 sick bed, for then the pains of body will be 
 sufficient to bear, without the stings of a 
 wounded conscience. — You can never begin 
 too early to prepare for death. — The good- 
 ness of Providence has been mercifully and 
 powerfully extended unto me during my 
 sickness, wherein I have known the Divine 
 arm of strength to have been my support 
 under much bodily weakness. May the 
 same good hand support all, both young 
 and old, when they are brought into a simi- 
 lar situation. — Oh! that my soul may praise 
 the Lord for his wonderful condesc^'nding 
 goodness to so unworthy and undeserving a 
 creature as I have been ! — Do not fail, I 
 eoireat you, to return him daily thanks for 
 
§3 
 
 the many unmerited blessings be so bounti- 
 fully (lispenseth to transgressing and rebel- 
 lious children. Choose the Lord for your 
 portion, and the Grod of Jacob for the lot of 
 your inheritance — place your whole confi- 
 dence and never distrust his goodness or 
 power — he is able to do all things, there is 
 nothing impossible with God. May you 
 more and more admire the excellency and 
 beauty there is in the unchangeable truth; — 
 suffer not any worldly cares whatever, when 
 health permits, to prevent your punctual at- 
 tendance of religious meetings for worship 
 and discipline. The performance of this 
 most solemn, sacred and incumbent duty, 
 should never be neglected ; and whilst as- 
 sembled for the purpose of worshipping the 
 Divine Being, endeavour to feel your minds 
 brought into perfect stillness, and released 
 from all corroding thoughts : in which state 
 we can alone approach our Maker with ac- 
 ceptance. " God is a Spirit, and they that 
 " worship him must worship him in spirit 
 "and in truth,'' The mere showing ourselves 
 amongst others will do little for us, unless 
 we desire to have our minds benefited by 
 going to meetings. Do not let youth, or 
 self-reasoning, excite thoughts of its being 
 time enough to be serious, for those who are 
 truly religious, I believe enjoy the most real 
 comfort and peace of mind. Oh! that none 
 
S4 
 
 may be like the foolish virgins, who had no 
 oil in their lamps when the bridegroom came : 
 — be ye all ready, whenever he shall come, 
 to go forth to meet him. 
 
 'I strongly recommend a frequent perusal 
 of the Holy Scriptures ; they afford instruc- 
 tion and consolation to the seeking mind. 
 The revelation of these sacred truths very 
 much de^pends on the state of mind in which 
 we read them. 1 have derived unspeakable 
 advantage, and many times my mind has 
 felt comfortj from an early acquaintance with 
 them, which makes me desirous that all may 
 cherish a partiality for reading them: 1 well 
 know their real value. — Be frequently in 
 the practice of retiring and waiting on the 
 Lord ; seek his counsel as your only sure 
 gni^e through life; it will enable you to 
 pursue the necessary avocations you may be 
 engaged in. — Live loose to the fleeting things 
 of time ; place not your affections on sensual 
 pleasures; let the Almighty Father of the 
 universe, the Saviour and Redeemer of man- 
 kind, be your first love; give him the greatest 
 room in your hearts, allow him to come in 
 and abide with you ; may you never reject 
 the tender visitations of Divine love, nor 
 spurn the gentle reproofs and admonitions 
 of unerring wisdom, which can only lead 
 you in the right path ; — be not ashamed to 
 acknowledge the Lord in all your vrays — 
 
25 
 
 remember what he suffered for the sake of 
 all sinnersj in order to redeem us from our 
 sinful states. 
 
 ' It is a source of sweet satisfaction when 
 I reflect, that I never, to my knowledge, 
 was ashamed of behaving plain and simple, 
 or of making use of the plain language to all 
 ranks of people, which my situation in life 
 su!)jected me to a variety of acquaintance 
 with; and I never found that it lessened mj 
 respect in the world, but, on the contrary, 
 am convinced that those who act consistently 
 with our Christian profession, are much more 
 esteemed by the thoughtful part of mankind, 
 and must be more acceptable in the sight of 
 an all -seeing God, from whom nothing can 
 be concealed/ 
 
 10 mo. 31. — ^Buy the Truth and sell it 
 not. Oh ! that all my dear young friends 
 may be induced to sell all that they have^ 
 that is, to relinquish every thing that is con- 
 trary to truth, and purchase the pearl of great 
 price. — Believe me, it is well worth your 
 seeking so valuable a possession: 1 know it 
 now by experience; for I would not resign 
 it for the greatest earthly treasure, nor make 
 an exchange of my present situation for the 
 most exalted one in this world. I humbly 
 3 
 
S6 
 
 trust, that He who can convert a sinner to a 
 saint is mercifully redeeming my soul from 
 the follies and corruptions of this degenerate 
 world ; and when it is fully purified for an 
 entrance into my Redeemer's kingdom, I have 
 no douht hut it will be granted me. I know 
 that my Redeemer lives, and in this alone I 
 trust : he is my only hope, and the dearly 
 beloved of my soul, and to do his will is 
 now my delight — may this be the experience 
 of all my fellow creatures — may the great I 
 Am, who hath been graciously pleased to 
 bring my will into subjection to his own pure 
 ^vill, do the same with all his creatures. Let 
 all be subservient to him who alone knows 
 what is best for us, and orders all things in 
 \visdoin. Oh! the goodness and power of re- 
 deeming love, which has mercifully weaned 
 my affections from terrestrial things, and 
 placed them on objects far more excellent and 
 superior in their nature. I can now in since- 
 rity say, — Not my will hut thine be done, O 
 Lord. I declare these things with a view of 
 encouraging others to place their entire con- 
 fidence in the Father of lights, with whom 
 is no variableness neither shadow of turning; 
 knowing that I have been a great transgres- 
 sor, and guilty of many omi*^sions ; so that 
 when I reflect on the wonderful goodness 
 and tender dealings of a most merciful Sa- 
 viour, I trust I feel humble and self-abased : 
 — Oh ! that I may be as nothing in his 
 
27 
 
 Divine siglit, not having any thing but what 
 I have received from his bountiful hand. 
 We are poor, dependent creatures, and un- 
 worthy of the least of the Lord's mercies, 
 whose compassions towards us fail not. Oh! 
 that we were liumble, meek, and lowly- 
 minded as was our Holy Pattern ; who 
 though he could have legions of angels at 
 his command, took upon him the form of a 
 servant. Let your thoughts often recur to 
 the cruel death and sufl'eriugs of our dear 
 Saviour, the Lord of life and glory — We 
 must bear the cross and despise the shame 
 — I am convinced there is no way to the 
 crown but by the cross ; there is only the 
 one way to the celestial city : our blessed 
 Lord declared himself to be the way, the 
 truth, and the life ; may all fully believe on 
 him is ray sincere desire. I feel my heart 
 to flow with love to my fellow- creatures ; I 
 trust it is that love which proceeds from my 
 Heavenly Father, who is no respecter of 
 persons, but all that fear him, let their name 
 to religion be what it may, all are precious 
 in his divine sight. 
 
 ' I feel longing desires raised in my heart, 
 that the faithful labourers in the Lord's vine- 
 yard may be encouraged to persevere in the 
 glorious w^ork they have engaged in : let 
 none be dismayed, for He who alone can 
 strengthen the weak hands and confirm the 
 
feeble knees, will support those who are bound 
 to he zealous in the cause of tru th, and sincerely 
 desire the prosperity of Zion and the enlarge- 
 ment of her borders ; let those not fear, for 
 the foundation of God standeth sure, having 
 this seal, that tiie Lord knoweth them that 
 are his. — Truth is the same yesterday, to- 
 day, and for ever, and nothing shall ever be 
 able to overcome it.^ 
 
 11 mo. 1. — ^ Let me tenderly entreat those 
 who may not have come under the forming 
 hand of Divine Power, nor submitted to the 
 yoke of Christ, not to delay longer, nor con- 
 sult with iiesh and blood, but to enter into 
 covenant with your great Master, that from 
 the present time you will become labourers iu 
 his vineyard. Oh ! the reward he gives is 
 great ! stand no longer idle — do not put off 
 to the eleventh hour, though we read that 
 they who entered in at that late hour, re- 
 ceived as much as those who bore the bur- 
 den and heat of the day, which is great en- 
 couragement : nevertheless, there is much 
 loss and risk attend such as thus put off; we 
 lose more than we are aware of by not serv- 
 ing the Author of our being all our days : I 
 wish I had been more faithful all my life 
 than I was. — Oh ! the extent of my Redeem- 
 
29 
 
 er's goodness, no tongue can tell : — My dear 
 friends, reject not, neither slight, the tender 
 visitations of Divine Love, which 1 helieve 
 have been extended to many, lest the sen- 
 tence applied to Jerusalem shall he again 
 passed ; remember when our dear Lord be- 
 held the city and wept over it : '' If tliou 
 " hadst known the things which belong unto 
 ^* thy peace, but now they are hid from thine 
 ^^ eyes," &c. '' because thou knewest not the 
 ^^ time of thy visitation." Oh ! that it may 
 not be applicable in the present day. And 
 in another part, " O Jerusalem, Jerusalem ! 
 ^' thou that killest the prophets, and stonest 
 ^^them which are sent unto thee, how often 
 ^' would I have gathered thy children to- 
 ^' gether, even as a hen gathereth her chickens 
 ^^ under her wings, and ye would not." Have 
 not there been many of the Lord's messen- 
 gers sent among us of late, and where are 
 the fruits which should result from such la- 
 bours of love? Many sharp testimonies have 
 been borne to backsliders, and also much in- 
 vitation for us to return unto the Lord and 
 he will have mercy, and to o«r God who 
 will abundantly pardon our sins, if we be 
 truly devoted to serve him the remainder of 
 our lives, and sin no more. We should be 
 a separate people, as was designed by Him 
 that first gathered our society : " Come out 
 '^ from among them, and be ye separate^ 
 3* 
 
30 
 
 ^^saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean 
 ^' thing, and I will receive you, and will be 
 " a iather unto you, and ye sliall be my sons 
 ^^ and daughters." Ah! my dear young 
 friends, in much love and simplicity do I 
 entreat you to separate your minds from the 
 false pleasures and vain gratifications of tliis 
 fading world; seek that "city which hath 
 ^^foundations, whose builder and maker is 
 ^' God.'' 
 
 ^ My heart is filled with love towards you, 
 my dear friends, and to the whole race of 
 mankind — it knows no bounds, but reaches 
 over sea and land. Earnest desires are rais- 
 ed in me, that none may fall short of an en- 
 trance into everlasting rest, prepared for all 
 true believers. Oii! may we be sheep of His 
 pasture, who hath promised there shall be 
 one shepherd and one fold ; — Christ is the 
 door, and his sheep hear his voice, and 
 know it, but a stranger they will not follow. 
 Beware of listening to the voice of the ene- 
 my, who would lead unwatchful minds 
 astray, and, if possible, persuade us that the 
 Lord, my beloved Saviour, will not do for 
 us as he promises ; but I know the enemy 
 to be a liar, and the truth is not in him ; he 
 is a cunning, crooked, twining serpent, full 
 of deceit ; let none fear or doubt the good- 
 ness of a wise God. whose promises are un- 
 failing — they are yea and amen forever. May 
 
SI 
 
 the attributes of ray Heavenly Parent, whom 
 iny soul now adores, be my perpetual theme ; 
 whilst I exist I must praise my dear Re- 
 deemer, that hath done so raucb for unwor- 
 thy me; replenishing my mind from time to 
 time with his pure love. The wonderful 
 goodness and favours I have experienced 
 through my long- protracted illness, must be 
 obvious to all who have seen me — may they 
 ever remember the good Hand that could 
 alone have supported me, and forget not to 
 praise Him who only is v*^orthy. Ah ! praise 
 and extol the King of kings and Lord of 
 lords : '^ Be thou exalted, O God, above the 
 " heavens, let thy glory be above all the 
 r^ earth ;'' for thou art a jealous God, and 
 will not give thy glory to another, nor thy 
 praise to graven images. " No man having 
 ^' put his hand to the plough, and looking 
 ^' back is fit for the kingdom of God,^' were 
 the words of our dear and blessed Saviour : 
 let none look back, I entreat you ; be en- 
 couraged to follow the Captain of your sal- 
 vation ; maintain the warfare of truth and 
 righteousness ; fight the good fight of faith, 
 that finally you may obtain the reward of 
 ^' Well done, thou good and faithful ser- 
 ^^ vant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.^' 
 Employ the several talents which you have 
 been entrusted vvitli ; let none be like the 
 wicked servant who hid his Lord's money in 
 
3a 
 
 a napkin. Oh ! my beloved friends, study to 
 do all you can whilst it is day^ for the night 
 Cometh wherein none can work. Though we 
 be ever so diligent, we shall have nothing 
 to spare in the great day of account which is 
 hastening on all, when he which is, and was, 
 and is to come, will judge both quick and 
 dead. Oh ! that our names may be written 
 in the Lamb's book of life, that we may join 
 the just of all generations made perfect, hav- 
 ing their robes washed in the atoning blood 
 of the dear Son of God, who gave his life a 
 ransom for mankind, and maketh interces- 
 sion for returning sinners, who look unto 
 him for redemption, and fully believe in his 
 all- sufficiency and eternal salvation. " Be- 
 '^ side me there is no Saviour,'' saith the 
 Lord: He is a sure refuge in the day of 
 trial — Oh ! my soul, art thou sincerely at- 
 tached to thy Creator — fail not to return him 
 thanksgiving, honour, glory, and praise, that 
 he did not leave thee in thy former corrupt 
 state; cease not to seek a continuance of Di- 
 vine goodness whilst thou art clothed with 
 mortality, and when the joyful release shall 
 come, then, O my soul! join the heavenly 
 host in eternally singing hallelujah to the 
 Lord God and the Lamb, for ever and for 
 evermore; who alone is worthy.' 
 
3S 
 
 11 mo. 2. Some young people being in 
 the room, whose welfare she seemed inte- 
 rested for, she gave very impressive and inte- 
 resting advice for their future conduct — to take 
 up a resolution from that night, and not mat- 
 ter appearing singular in the world — to turn 
 from its maxims, its pleasures, and its 
 friendships, and not to be ashamed to appear 
 Quakers; but to honour their Lord and 
 Master, who had said, ^^ Whosoever shall 
 ^^ confess me before men, him shall the Sou 
 ^^ of man also confess before the angels of 
 '' God ; but he that denieth me before men, 
 ^^ shall be denied before the angels of God." 
 — She reminded them, that they had in her 
 a monument of his goodness and mercy, 
 and wonderful loving-kindness: adding, — 'I 
 v/ould rather be a door-keeper in the house 
 of my God, than dwell in the tents of wick- 
 edness. Perhaps you may think of me, and 
 of my words, when I am laid in the silent 
 grave. It is not age that has reduced me to 
 the state you see me in, nearly as dependent 
 as an infant: I am young, as well as ,vou, 
 and you know not how soon it may be your 
 situation. Put not oiT the work of your im- 
 mortal soul's salvation — defer it not to a sick 
 bed, I entreat you, when the ])ains of the 
 body may be sufficient to bear, but serve the 
 Lord in your prime; he loves an early sa- 
 crifice, and will never leave nor forsake them 
 
m 
 
 that put their trust and confidence in him. 
 He is good, inexpressibly g«»od, to those 
 that seek him in true humility and nothing- 
 ness of self. — ^^To this man will I look, 
 ^^even to him that is poor and of a contrite 
 *^ spirit, and trembleth at my word.'' Come, 
 seek for yourselves, '^ the' heart knoweth his 
 " own bitterness, and a stranger doth not in- 
 ^* termeddle with his joy.'' — Taste and see 
 how good the Lord is. I long that you should 
 feel as I do ; and you will, perhaps in a 
 greater degree, be favoured with the incomes 
 of divine love, if the fault is not your own. 
 Take up a firm resolve, like good old Joshua, 
 *^ Choose you this day whom you will serve ; 
 ^^ as for me and my house, we will serve the 
 ^^ Lord.'' The Almighty Judge of quick and 
 dead, whose penetrating eye pierces the 
 inmost recesses of the soul, knows every 
 word and action, sees us as we really are : 
 nothing can be hid from his view. O may 
 we fear to offend ! and fear not man who can 
 only kill the body, but fear him who can 
 cast both soul and body into hell : — fear, 
 honour, and obey him, before whom all shall 
 bow, either in judgment or in mercy.' 
 
 11 mo. 3. ^I trust T am at times hum 
 bly prostrated before the throne of grace, in 
 
35 
 
 Feverent thankfulness to the Author of all 
 our sure mercies, who hath been pleased 
 mercifully to lengthen my clays, and enable 
 me to prepare for the solemn change wliich 
 awaits me. It is an unspeakable privilege 
 to have a time of refinement granted us. How 
 many instances have we of those taken off 
 the stage of life at a very short warning. I 
 have often reflected on the uncertainty of 
 human life: it is lamentable to think of any 
 passing their precious time, as though re- 
 gardless of this most awful subject. L^t us 
 just consider, that in the twinkling of an eye, 
 the soul may be summoned to resign its 
 earthly tenement; and dreadful is the thought 
 if any be unprepared, who have not felt or 
 sought after an interest in their Redeemer 
 whilst health was afforded them ; — their si- 
 tuation appears to me truly terrific. I wish, 
 most sincerely, that the minds of the supine 
 may be awakened to consider how far tliey 
 are fulfilling their duty to an all- wise Crea- 
 tor, who requires no more than his due ; and 
 if we do our utmost, we must allow, after 
 all, we are unprofitable servants. 
 
 ^ In much affection, may I endeavour to 
 dissuade those who have given way to an 
 inclination to attend taverns, the theatre, or 
 such like places of dissipation, from continu- 
 ing thus to waste their precious, fleptiug mo- 
 ments. How can any^ calling themselves 
 
36 
 
 Quakers, feel acquitted in such practices? 
 I doii'i tliiiik anv can, and it is a dangerous 
 thing to stifle conviction, by acting against 
 conscience; beware of this, for then we have 
 no cloak for our sin, and so become the 
 greater transgressors. Every human cieMture 
 is blest with a sure intt^rnal monitor, which 
 reproves for doing wrong, and if atteiuied 
 to, would lead us in the right way at all 
 times. I never was sorry for o!)eying this 
 true guide, but have felt loss attend disobe- 
 dient, even in trifling temj>oral concerns. 
 
 ^ Another way of mis-spending time, in 
 my view , is reading novels, and other evil 
 publications, with which ti»e age abounds. 
 I believe they have injured many minds. 
 Many are the snares which the enemy of 
 man's happiness lays for our destruction; 
 and if constant watchfulness be not preserv- 
 ed, we are in great danger of being entangled 
 thereby. 
 
 ' I have been induced to mention these 
 things, that are clearly pointed out to me as 
 errors in this time of reflection, hoping they 
 may be taken as intended, being, I trust, 
 the effusions of a heart converted by the 
 operative power of the Word of Truth, 
 breathing love to all my fellow mortals, and 
 interestt^d for their comfort through time and 
 happiness in eternity. Believe me my dear 
 friends, it is well worth taking up the cross 
 
37 
 
 to our inclinations for the sake of our dear 
 Redeemer ; tliink nothing, I entreat you, too 
 near or dear to part with that he shall re- 
 quire at your hands. Oh ! may I be totally 
 subject and given up to serve ray good Mas- 
 ter, in thought, word, and deed, the few re- 
 maining days of my life.^ 
 
 11 mo. 4. — ^Be humble, be patient under 
 suffering, despise not the chastenings of the 
 Lord, neither be weary of his corrections, 
 '' for whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, 
 ^' and scourgeth every son whom he receiv- 
 " eth.^' I rejoice in my affliction, knowing 
 it has been dispensed for my good, and 
 such I hope it will ultimately prove. 1 trust 
 my soul is anchored in its ('reator, the im- 
 moveable Rock, against which all the powers 
 of darkness shall never be able to prevail; 
 and that nothing shall separate me from the 
 love I feel in my beloved Saviour and bles- 
 sed Intercessor, who 1 believe is now mine, 
 and that 1 am his. Oh ! the blessing of 
 being made a true believer, having un- 
 shaken faith and firm hope in the merries 
 rnd all-sufficiency of our dear Lord Jesus 
 Christ.^ 
 
 4 
 
38 
 
 11 mo. o. — ^The Lord is a sure refuge 
 ill the time of trouble, and a shield unto all 
 who trust in him ; he is ray only hope, my 
 deliverer, my buckler, and the horn of my 
 salvation. Great and marvellous are thy 
 works. Lord God Almighty ! Just and true 
 are all thy ways, thou King of saints! — the 
 mighty Counsellor, the everlasting Father, 
 and the Prince of peace. To thee only be- 
 iongeth glory, honour, power, thanksgivings, 
 and praises for evermore. Amen. 
 
 ' Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his 
 face evermore. Let all the nations of the 
 earth fear and adore the name of the great 
 Jehovah^ who is alone worthy.' 
 
 * I feel as though I dare not omit relating 
 a few more particulars which have dwelt on 
 my mind with some weight for days past, 
 as regards instructing the tender minds of 
 children, and instilling therein early princi- 
 ples of piety and virtue. I wish all who 
 have the care of youth may be attentive to 
 this important work. With much diffidence 
 and affection, may I attempt to remind parents 
 of the strict care that is necessary, to keep 
 these tender plants cleared of all noxious 
 weeds, which if suffered to take root and 
 grow, may frustrate the designs of the great 
 
39 
 
 Husbandman, who hath entrusted them to 
 your care, for which he will most assuredly 
 require an account at the final day of judg- 
 meot, when no excuse will be taken for ne- 
 glected duty. Such a responsible situation 
 as parents hold, demands constant diligence, 
 and frequent seeking for best counsel, to di- 
 rect and enal)le to act with acceptance in the 
 sight of our Creator, before w^hom all must 
 appear, sooner or later. Those who may be 
 encouraging in their infant charge a love for 
 gay attire, I tenderly warn of its dangerous 
 consequences, thereby sowing the seeds of 
 pride, which mostly shows itself too soon, 
 and should if possible be eradicated. We 
 know that the Lord hath respect unto the 
 lowly, but the proud he knoweth afar oii*. 
 Remember the humility of our dear Saviour ; 
 he blessed little children, and said, ^^ of 
 such is the kingdom of heaven," and that 
 whosoever will not receive the kingdom of 
 heaven as a little child, shall in no wise en- 
 ter therein. How melancholy the reflection, 
 that corruption should be introduced by pa- 
 rents in gratifying their own inclinations. I 
 fear there are some who do not consider se- 
 riously what they are doing, that deck and 
 adorn their little babes before they knew 
 what dress is. I have often beheld with 
 concern the decoration of some infants' dress, 
 totally inconsistent with the principles we 
 
10 
 
 profess ; iace to the little cap, and much su- 
 perfluous work on the frock ; such vanities, 
 my dear friends, will ultimately prove a 
 source of sorrow to both parents and chil- 
 dren ; when the latter arrive at serious 
 thought, and see the impropriety of gay ap- 
 parel, they may probably censure the man- 
 ner they were trained, which will cause the 
 cross to feel much harder than if more hum- 
 bly brought uj). Many young persons, when 
 laid on a sick bed, have felt remorse for 
 Laving given way to vain propensities, by 
 ibllov/ing the vain fiishions of the age ; and 
 can parents wb.o act thus, be acquitted of 
 having neglected their duty ? The. good 
 Shepherd hath made them stewards over 
 this part of his flock — the care of the soul is 
 more requisite than of these poor bodies, 
 which must ere long return to original dust. 
 Though nature may be more lavish of her 
 accomplishments to some than others, they 
 should not be noticed in the hearing of the 
 child who may have a pretty face, or fine 
 person, with a handsome head of hair ; be 
 cautious how you observe these things, and 
 if their attention appears to be turned on 
 such endowments, I beg you may discourage 
 any thing like admiration of them ; they may 
 prove a snare, if watchfulness be not the 
 study. I well remember the strict care of 
 my dear mother, when in our childhood, if 
 
41 
 
 she perceived any appearance of vanity in 
 dress, or fondness for one particular garment, 
 she determined to deprive us of it, which I 
 am convinced served to preserve us in some 
 degree, from desiring fashionable dress. I 
 esteem such care a blessing, and it is, in my 
 opinion, one of the greatest tokens of real 
 parental love that can be shown. Winking 
 at foibles in children is very mistaken love, 
 and not the way to promote their comfort. 
 Let all beware of laying a foundation for 
 sorrow in the trying hour. My dear friends, 
 be prevailed on to nip every evil inclination 
 in the bud. 
 
 ' And you, my dear children, be dutiful 
 and obedient to your parents, attentive to 
 their commands, and, as you grow in years, 
 try to make all the return in your power for 
 their care of you in infancy. Be kind and 
 affectionate one toward another, for this is 
 well-pleasing in the sight of your heavenly 
 Father, from whom your most trifling faults 
 cannot be concealed ; though vou may at- 
 tempt to hide them from human eye, think 
 not to do so from Him who sees and knows 
 the thoughts, words, and actions. Never be 
 tempted to tell a lie, or deceive any person; 
 act with candour, and be willing to acknow- 
 ledge your faults, and you will he the more 
 readily forgiven. Never bear in your mind 
 any thing like resentment; be careful to for- 
 4* 
 
give every offence you receive from others — 
 if we do not forgive, neither will our hea- 
 venly Father forgive us our trespasses. Re- 
 member not injuries, but should differences 
 arise at any time, endeavour, as soon as may 
 be for a reconciliation ; so will you live in 
 peace and love with your fellow-creatures. 
 Our Saviour commanded his disciples to 
 love one another as he loved them ; may you 
 be preserved from breaking this holy com- 
 mandment. I love you all, my dear chil- 
 dren, and tenderly entreat you ever to live 
 in the fear of the Almighty, who can bless 
 you and make you happy.' 
 
 11 mo. 10. — ^ I wish my dear friends 
 every where to avoid speaking to the preju- 
 dice of any person. Whenever you feel a 
 temptation to this evil, or are in the way of 
 bearing others, discourage it as much as pos- 
 sible — never join in such a conversation. If 
 charity cover not the tongue, let the finger 
 of silence rest upon the lips ; would you like 
 to be so treated by others in your absence ? 
 I believe, did we often reflect thus, we should 
 then wish to do unto others as we like them 
 to do to us ; this would entirely prevent tale- 
 be.iring and detraction being heard of, which 
 1 think a cruel practice. Avoid and dis- 
 
43 
 
 courage a volatile disposition, and levity of 
 conduct, at all times, as there is danger at- 
 tends givi.ig way to this inclination. Seek 
 to acquire a regular, circumspect deport- 
 ment, which is generally accompanied by in- 
 nocent cheerfulness.' 
 
 11 mo. 1 1. — ^ I have been considering our 
 query, Is there among you any growth in 
 the truth ? which I think should excite an 
 individual, impartial examination, and fre- 
 quent communion with the heart, by which 
 we would discover whether our desires after 
 the knowledge of the best things increase, 
 and if this be the happy case, 1 believe a 
 growth in the truth must then be experienced. 
 Beware, my beloved friends, of indifference 
 or lukewarmness prevailing as to your pro- 
 gress in the work of righteousness, which 
 shall bring you peace ; this is a glorious 
 work to engage in — let none be dismayed, 
 as all who follow their Divine Leader in the 
 way he requires, and serve him faithfully, 
 shall finally receive a rich reward for all their 
 toils. Take up your cross daily, and bear 
 the yoke of a dear Saviour. I can tell you 
 his yoke is easy and his burden light. There 
 is no way to the crown but by the cross. 
 With the Lord is fulness of joy, and at his 
 
44 
 
 right hand are pleasures for evermore — his 
 ways are ways of pleasantness^ and all his 
 paths are peace.^ 
 
 11 mo. 13. — ^Oh ! the comfort and happy 
 state of mind we enjoy hy loving tlie Lord 
 above all things — it is beyond the power of 
 utterance. Trust in him at all times, and 
 you shall find every want supplied : trust 
 not in the fading pleasures of this transitory 
 state. My dear friends, spurn not the gen- 
 tle monitions of the Most High ; despise not 
 the day of small things ; cherish the least ap- 
 pearance of good which may arise in the 
 Blind, and should any feel at times as though 
 deprived of spiritual comfort^ be not dis- 
 couraged ; — the Lord is pleased to hide him- 
 self for a time, in order, I believe, to prove 
 our faith and love to him ; and if he still tind 
 us seeking for him, he will delight to satis- 
 fy our hungry souls. I have sometimes 
 thought of those who are tempted whilst in 
 the vigour of life and health to slight their 
 blessed Lord and Saviour by persevering in 
 follies, and indulging the gratifications of self 
 — how can such look for comfort in a time 
 of trial, and on a sick bed — let them consi- 
 der the dan2;er of living entirely at ease in 
 their own pleasures^ so long as they are able 
 
45 
 
 to enjoy tliem^ that when deprived of ability 
 or relish for such things^ then the Almighty 
 may laugh at their calamity^ and mock when 
 their fear coineth.' 
 
 11 mo. 15. — ^ Oh ! the ecstacy and raptur- 
 ous sensations that fill my soul, contemplat- 
 ing celestial happiness ; a prospect of which, 
 I hope, is mercifully granted me. I believe 
 I feel at times something like a foretaste of 
 the joys of heaven. There is none like un- 
 to the Lord : he has granted all my desires : 
 I seem as though all my wishes are now sa- 
 tisfied ; I have seen my dearly beloved Aunt, 
 who I never expected to have met in this 
 world. I feel my heart overflow with grati- 
 tude to the best of parents, my dear Lord, 
 who has daily blessed me with innumerable 
 comforts, and yesterday, not the least, of see- 
 ing so dear a relative. May the Almighty 
 be her support in her weakly state ! Oh ! 
 my God will be with all that seek him. — I 
 sought him and was not disappointed. What 
 shall I render unto the Lord for all his be- 
 nefits ? I have nothing to give him but his 
 own, and that he shall have. 
 
 ^ I hope T always loved the Truth ; though 
 I did little if any thing to forward the great 
 work, I wished for its prosperity ; and that 
 
46 
 
 all may experience a growth in this inesti- 
 mable treasure, let none depend on another 
 answering this important query, [Is there 
 among you any growth in the truth ?] but in- 
 dividually examine their own state, and 
 earnestly press after that great attainment. 
 Let this be the frequent language of the 
 mind, " Create in me a clean heart, and re- 
 '' new a right spirit within me,'* for thoU; 
 Lord; alone can perfect the work !^ 
 
 11 mo. 18. — ^0 my God, how profuse 
 hast thou been of thy goodness to me, from 
 my infantile years to this time. I delight to 
 commemorate the Lord's peculiar mercies 
 and comforts, dispensed to me on a bed of 
 languishing, in the course of which time I 
 was favoured to partake of visits from seve- 
 ral kind friends, that T hope are faithful in 
 the work of my dear Redeemer, and minis- 
 ters of the Gospel, who comforted and 
 strengthened me ; nor shall I, whilst favour- 
 ed with recollection, lose sight of the feel- 
 ings enjoyed, the few moments I passed in 
 the company of my much valued friend, Na- 
 than Hunt, from America, who was the mes- 
 senger of good tidings to my bed -side. Often 
 have I reflected on that precious season, 
 wherein I felt as if the good Master was 
 
47 
 
 present with us. This visit made so great 
 an '.nipr(\ssion on my mind, I did not like to 
 omit noticing it. The few like opportunities 
 I enjoyed with other dear friends, afforded 
 me solid satisfaction : — all, 1 trust, are sealed 
 on my memory. Never be cast down, O my 
 soul, nor disquieted within me ; trust in the 
 Lord, for I shall praise him, who is the 
 health of my countenance and my God. 
 What should I do, but for constant supplies 
 of inward support from the pure, inexhausti- 
 ble fountain of all good? My bodily weak- 
 ness is now exceedingly oppressive, but 
 through all my mind is preserved calm and 
 tranquil, which more than compensates for 
 any bodily suffering, — thanks to my belov- 
 ed, everlasting Helper, who can do as much 
 for others, yea, more, than he hath done 
 for me : this thought is consoling to my mind. 
 Let not thy hand spare, O Lord ! nor thine 
 eye pity, until thou hast made all hearts 
 what thou wouldest have them to be. Oh ! 
 that all may submit to the operations of 
 Truth, and none be strangers to the inward 
 work, which is a blessed work indeed. 
 
 ' I was one night awoke from sleep, with 
 these comfortable words impressed on my 
 mind, ^^They shall be kept in perfect peace 
 ^' whose minds are stayed on their God." I 
 trust mine is so, or I should hardly enjoy 
 such sweet peace and quiet as I dO; and have 
 
48 
 
 enjoyed for many weeks back. I must not 
 fail to glorify the great I am^ who cloth mar- 
 vellous things, manifold are his works, in 
 wisdom are all ordered by him. I have 
 thought of the lepers which we read were 
 cleansed, and of their neglect. ^^ Where are 
 " the nine?" said the only one good Healer: 
 ^^ There are not found that have returned 
 ^^to give glory to God, save this stranger.'' 
 Be not deficient my dear friends, in praising 
 your Heavenly Father for the very least of 
 his favours. We feel a wish to make some 
 return to our friends for past kindness, and 
 surely we should feel doubly anxious to re- 
 turn gratitude and praises, due to that great 
 and good Being, from whom alone we re- 
 ceive every perfect gift, and whose stores of 
 kindness are never closed against us; if 
 the fault be not our own, no good thing will 
 he withhold that can add to our comfort. 
 He who walketh on the wings of the wind, 
 and the clouds are under his feet, whose 
 throne is in heaven and his footstool on 
 earth, He it is I wish to praise and exalt, 
 who, I humbly trust, will be pleased ere 
 long to raise me to the summit of felicity. 
 I desire to be abased as in dust and ashes, 
 knowing my nothingness in the Divine 
 sight.' 
 
49 
 
 11 mo, SI. — ^Iii a feeling of that love 
 which T believe death shall only dissolve, 
 do I entreat those who are fond of gay dress, 
 and adorning these poor bodies of clay, to 
 consider, that though in a state of natural 
 perfection one day, yet before another closes 
 they may be cold and lifeless as the dust 
 from whence they sprung. Ah! my dear 
 friends, let this thought often impress your 
 minds, and be not exalted in your own esti- 
 mation, neither lean to your own understand- 
 ing — we can do nothing of ourselves ; all 
 our endeavours are unavailing without the 
 aid of the Almighty. '* Except the Lord 
 " build the house, they labour in vain that 
 '^ build it, — except the Lord keep the city, 
 " the watchman waketh but in vain.'' So it 
 is in all our good actions through life, we 
 must know his holy Hand to be underneath. 
 Let the creature be humbled in all things, 
 but the Creator exalted — exalted and mag- 
 nified for evermore ! " To this man will I 
 '' look, salth the Lord, even to him that is 
 '* poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth 
 " at my word." — It is not in sacrifices and 
 burnt offerings that thou delightest, but the 
 sacrifice of a broken heart, O God thou wilt 
 not despise. Be pleased to convert all hearts 
 as thou hast mine. Oh ! thou adored and 
 delight of my soul, Lord God Almighty, 
 thou kuowest that I love thee, and earnestly 
 5 
 
50 
 
 crave that all may love and serve thee, the 
 only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou 
 hast sent. — I wish all frequently to retire 
 and wait on the Lord, believing such offer- 
 ings are acceptable, and that the time devot- 
 ed to such services would be blessed; — it is 
 in the silence of all flesh that we can ap- 
 proach the Throne of Grace with accept- 
 ance; — all our own thoughts must be sub- 
 dued — thus shall we hear the still small 
 voice. 
 
 ^May my beloved brothers, sisters, and 
 dear friends, yea, all the world over, come 
 to experience the happy state of a true be- 
 liever, and have full confidence in the Divine 
 Being, which I have found the advantage 
 of; but I do not mention this from boasting, 
 "well knowing it has been all the Lord's 
 work and marvellous in my eyes, that an 
 unworthy creature like me should have been 
 thus noticed and so eminently cared for by 
 the great and good Author of all nature. — 
 Oh ! that the celestial and terrestrial world 
 may ever praise my dear Redeemer, who 
 reigns triumphant in the realms above. I 
 long since thought that the Divine decree 
 was not for my continuance in this world ; 
 at that time I felt as if it would be hard to 
 part with those near and dear to me, but all 
 have been much easier given up than I ever 
 expected — thanks be to Him with whom all 
 
51 
 
 things are possible, he has drawn my affec 
 tions wholly to himself; I can cheerfully 
 resii^n all to his care — I know he will com- 
 fort and support my dearly beloved lonely 
 sister in the trying time of separation, if she 
 only look to him in sincerity and reliance 
 she will find a Father and a Friend that 
 shall never be taken from her. Slie has 
 been to me a most tender affectionate nurse, 
 and did all she could towards my bodily 
 relief, for which 1 trust she will be reward- 
 ed here and hereafter/ 
 
 1831, 5 mo. 8. — <My soul fervently prays 
 that my blessed, precious Redeemer may 
 alone be glorified, praised, and exalted over 
 all, for this his encreasing power, as for all 
 his goodness and wondrous works on me, 
 an unworthy, unprofitable servant. I praise 
 and adore my God, for all his acts are good ; 
 of the encrease of his government there shall 
 be no end ; he has redoubled his love and 
 peace unto me, since he hath laid his good 
 hand additionally on my poor body, by de- 
 priving me of the power of extolling him 
 with my tongue.* Oh ! that all things may 
 
 • A few days before this was written she lost the power of 
 speech ; it was restored to her, after the lapse of nearly nine 
 months, and a short time before her decease. 
 
5S 
 
 redound to his great glory: I shall notecase 
 my silent gratitude and praise, I hurably 
 trust, whilst life and ability are granted me. 
 In death there is no remembrance of thee, in 
 the grave who shall give my Saviour thanks ! 
 Oh ! praise the Lord, all ye his creatures, 
 and love and serve him I beseech you, for 
 he is worthy above all. — Oh ! that I could 
 serve him to my last breath. I ardently 
 crave that the great Lord of the harvest 
 may be pleased to send forth more labourers 
 into his liarvest, which truly is plenteous, 
 but the labourers are few — more is the pity ! 
 — great loss of peace and comfort being sus- 
 tained by the negligent; — the hand of the 
 diligent maketh rich in the spiritual life — I 
 wish all to be aroused to more faithfulness, 
 there is nothing like it. Great things are in 
 store for those who love my good Master, 
 and work in his vineyard — the reward is 
 rich and sure. Believe me, I know it now, 
 and rejoice to leave a proof of the certainty 
 of it, if thereby I may incline survivors to 
 turn unto the Lord with full purpose of 
 heart, and serve him the residue of their 
 days, Avhich will produce them real happi- 
 ness. Oh ! the bliss which my soul enjoys 
 is unutterable — may every creature have the 
 same to declare in good time.' 
 
 Her sister Anne having asked her did 
 she think she should not speak again, she 
 
53 
 
 wrote as follows : — ' Not known to me, but 
 be content and resigned, as I am to my Sa- 
 viour's will. I never enjoyed so large a 
 share of happiness— join me in praising our 
 Heavenly Father, and in every thing give 
 him thanks. My beloved sisters, be faithful, 
 and lay your shoulders to his blessed work, 
 so will the Lord bless you and make your 
 sick bed happy, as lie has made mine ; — 
 glory be to his ever excellent name — Amen, 
 saith my soul— I love the whole race of 
 mankind and wish all as happy as myself.^ 
 
 5 mo. 16.-^1 wish it was the general 
 practice for families to collect their domes- 
 tics and read a portion of the Holy Scrip- 
 tures to them daily; for the contents of the 
 sacred volume cannot be too much promul- 
 gated in the earth : may you, my beloved 
 sisters, be in this practice, and on first days 
 especially ; appropriate not that day to visit- 
 ing or entertaining company, which must ne- 
 cessarily require attendance and labour. 
 
 < If I had a wish to return to the world, 
 it would be to set an example of simplicity 
 and serving my blessed Redeemer first of 
 all : there is no happiness comparable to that 
 which results from faithfulness to the Lord. 
 That yoU; my dear sisters, may be of this 
 5* 
 
54f 
 
 happy number is the frequent and fervent 
 prayer of my soul for you ; so will you be 
 blessed. I can promise you a rich reward 
 from an easy good Master, who don't re- 
 quire any thing hard. Oh ! give him all he 
 shall call for at your hands — you cannot re- 
 sign too much for his dear sake: ^^ To obey 
 ^* is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than 
 •^ the fat of rams/' If all the treasures of this 
 vain world were atmy command, 1 should with 
 delight, and a rejoicing heart, resign them for 
 the sake of a faithful Creator, from whom I 
 Lave received so great things — numerous un- 
 merited blessings hath he shed on my un- 
 worthy head, and is still multiplying his 
 boundless goodness. Would I wish to re- 
 sign such loving kindness? 1 say no: all 
 temptation would be insufficient to make me 
 give up my beloved, who, I hope, 1 have 
 surrendered my whole heart unto ; for to him 
 alone it is due. The Lord giveth and the 
 Lord taketh away, blessed be the name of 
 the Lord. 
 
 ^ May you be as lights in the world, that 
 others s<^eing your good works may be in- 
 duced to follow your footsteps, and glorify 
 your Heavenly Father, to whom I tenderly 
 advise you to keep a single eye — let him be 
 your chief dependance, and have the first 
 place in your affections. 1 love you as a sis- 
 ter 5 but there is added a pure love which 
 
5d 
 
 many waters cannot quench, nor the floods 
 of adversity destroy — it reaches over sea and 
 land. 
 
 ^ It is a fine attainment to he at peace with 
 the Almighty, and to he ready for the pale 
 spectre, which, though awful, has no ter- 
 rors for me ; my precious Saviour has taken 
 away the sting. Oh Death ! where is thy 
 sting? Oh, Grave ! where is thy victory? 
 All praises, glory, honour, and dominion he 
 ascribed to the name of the Lord, the great 
 Jehovah, now and for evermore, saith my 
 converted, happy soul ! — xlmen.' 
 
 5 mo. 18. — ^ This has been a precious, 
 happy day, like many preceding it, visited 
 by the renewings of my Heavenly Father's 
 love. Oh ! the beams of his benign, blessed 
 countenance, would cheer the most gloomy 
 abode, and enliven the dreary confines of a 
 dungeon. My time glides happily, and ap- 
 parently swifter than when enjoying health : 
 may I fancy myself a partaker of heavenly 
 joys, though still an inhabitant of these 
 lower regions ? Have I a grateful heart, or 
 am I diligent in returning thee thy own, my 
 dear Lord, as thou art graciously pleased to 
 grant me ability so to do? Oh ! that Thou, 
 who art the bountiful giver of every blessing, 
 
56 
 
 may vouchsafe to coatinue with me, and 
 cause my heart to overflow with gratitude 
 and praise unto thee, whilst thou art pleased 
 to leave me in this state of being. And, 
 dearest Father, preserve me faithful, obedi- 
 ent, patient and resigned, to await the time 
 when it shall be consistent with thy unerring 
 will to grant my spirit a release from cap- 
 tivity, and unite it to thy church triumphant 
 in singing praises and hallelujahs to thy sa- 
 cred and ever-worthy name, through a 
 boundless, happy eternity, world without 
 end. — Amen.' 
 
 A little girl being brought to her bedside, 
 she afterwards wrote as follows : — 
 
 ' On seeing that sweet little babe, the em- 
 blem of innocence, I was led to contemplate 
 the pure state the soul must arrive at, that is 
 admitted into paradise ; which our Saviour 
 said, must be as a little child, before any 
 could enter the kingdom of Heaven. It is a 
 great attainment to be one of these happy 
 babes in Christ, our Lord and Redeemer; 
 to know that the will is become subservient 
 as a little babe, in every thing obedient to 
 Divine power and command, not daring to 
 make any opposition thereto.' 
 
57 
 
 5 mo. SO. — ' My dear Redeemer's blessed 
 words when on earth were — "'My meat is 
 ^* to do the will of Him that sent me:'' — 
 this^ I humbly trust, has been my greatest 
 delight for some time past: it is truly plea- 
 santto obey the will of my Heavenly Fa- 
 ther, even in what may appear trifling ; all 
 bring a rich reward of peace, which fully 
 compensates for every surrender, however 
 much in the cross it is made. 
 
 ^ ^' I am the bread of life,'' said the dear 
 Lord; [and, in another place,] ^^Whoso- 
 ^^ ever drinketh of the water that 1 shall 
 ^•' give him, shall never thirst; but the water 
 ^^ that I shall give him shall be in him, a well 
 ^^ of water springing up into everlastinglife.'^ 
 Oh ! my soul, thou hast eaten freely of the 
 bread which thy heavenly Father dispenses 
 with a bountiful hand, satisfying liberally 
 thy daily wants and desires. Those who 
 ask this spiritual nourishment, in faith, will 
 not fail of finding it, which animates and 
 inspires with renewed hope and confidence 
 in the goodness and mercies of an omnipo- 
 tent Deity, without whom we should be 
 miserable, hopeless, helpless, and comfort- 
 less creatures — in perpetual danger but for 
 his watchful, protecting eye, \^ hich neither 
 slumbers nor sleeps — a faithful, good shep- 
 herd, looking over his flock lest the wolf 
 should catch any to destroy them. We are 
 
58 
 
 poor finite creatures, cannot do the least 
 good thing of ourselves — continually depen- 
 dent on a superintendiug power for every 
 thing: what have we to exalt us or to boast 
 of, but all to humble and abase self and con- 
 trite our spirits ? What meekness and low- 
 liness of mind we ought to possess — made 
 after the similitude of him who was meek 
 and lowly of heart, plain and simple in his 
 appearance, whose coat was woven without 
 a seam. Oh ! I love to dwell near a dear 
 Lord, studying his miraculous acts, and 
 condescending goodness, all for poor fallen 
 mankind, in order to raise to glory and hap- 
 piness those who will seek his redemption, 
 and look unto him as their only Saviour, 
 and hope of the immortal soul. My pros- 
 pects are so bright, and the way to eternity 
 so clear and unobscured, that I compare it 
 to a cloudless sky on a fine day. 
 
 ' I feel grateful in having ability granted 
 me thus to leave a little memorial of my 
 continued unmerited happiness, for the com- 
 fort and encouragement of survivors, if there- 
 by I shall induce any not to pass unnoticed 
 so great and marvellous works, or slight 
 that Providence who is merciful to all trans- 
 gressors, the least of whose goodness 1 am 
 undeserving of. Forget not then his won- 
 drous works, but seek him diligently, and 
 confide in hini alone ; he will not disappoint 
 
59 
 
 you — he never disappointed me, nor denied 
 me any comfort, either spiritual or temporal, 
 which his Divine wisdom saw meet 1 should 
 enjoy : thus should all be contented and 
 thankful, giving praise for all dispensations, 
 ^' most for the severe.'' Never did I enjoy 
 more calmness, serenity, or peace, than since 
 the power of articulation ceased; my never- 
 failing Comforter enabling my trembling 
 fingers to declare his goodness. Oh ! may 
 all things redound to his everlasting praise ; 
 and glorify, exalt, and magnify his ever- 
 worthy name, above all in heaven and on 
 earth — his marvellous doings all declare his 
 majesty. I believe it is wisely ordained, 
 that others beside myself shall benefit by 
 this long-protracted illness ; if such be the 
 gracious design, I rejoice to have been 
 chosen a sufferer for the sake of Him who 
 bled for me. 
 
 ^The christian life is a continual warfare; 
 or something similar to a sea-voyage, pros- 
 perous part of the time, but often are poor 
 mariners disappointed, and are wrecked 
 within view of land ; so frail man, toiling 
 on this ocean of trouble, is liable to attacks 
 from an unwearied enemy, which endanger 
 his safety, and sometimes terminate in ruin. 
 A tine morning is often succeeded by a tem- 
 pestuous evening ; no time of life are we 
 secure, but whilst under the immediate pro- 
 
60 
 
 tection of that Providence and sure Pilot, 
 ■whose power is invincible, able to deliver 
 from the most imminent perils ; who hath 
 said. '*My grace is sufficient for thee.'' The 
 Lord is a sure refuge in the day of trial, 
 and a present help in every time of need ; 
 he Plrengtheneth the weak hands, and cou- 
 finneth the feeble knees ; he is a shelter 
 from the heat, and as the shadow of a great 
 rock in a weary land. "VVatch and pray, 
 '' that ye enter not into temptation/' said 
 the Holy Pattern of all goodness. The 
 prnud billows, or high towering rocks, may 
 overwhelm some, and others may sink in 
 the quicksands of despair, but the good 
 Pilot can steer clear of all danger, and 
 brin?; safe to shore. 
 
 ' Day after day rolls on, and I am still a 
 living monument of the mercies ahd won- 
 drons power of that good Hand that has 
 indicted all for a wise purpose. Extreme 
 dei.ility is my portion, I suffer much at in- 
 tervals: I hope, through all, I have a thank- 
 ful heart, preserved from murmuring. I am 
 well rewarded for all, and much more. He 
 who gradually reduces the bodily powers is 
 graciously pleased to renew and strengthen 
 the mental, so that as the outward man de- 
 cays and grows weaker, the inward man 
 becomes stronger and stronger. — This is the 
 Lord's doingj and marvellous in our eyes ! 
 
61 
 
 — May it be indelibly sealed on every heart 
 that has heard, or known and witnessed 
 such continued, unmerited loving kindness. 
 Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, O God ! 
 what thou hast prepared for them that love 
 thee. — Take courage and use diligence ; 
 there is the same in store for all who seek 
 in sincerity, and patiently wait the dear Re- 
 deemer's good time for every blessing; they 
 that have faith and believe, shall find things 
 comparable to mountains removed^ those 
 that trust in the Lord shall not be disap- 
 pointed ; I have experienced the proof; let 
 none fear or be dismayed, the Father of mer- 
 cies, the Fountain of living waters, is inex- 
 haustible and endureth for ever. Thanks- 
 giving, glory, and praise are due to Him 
 alone, who only doeth any good thing ! I 
 must praise the name of my Redeemer whilst 
 I live, and magnify his excellence; he is my 
 chief love — I love all my Creator loves : 
 God is love, and they that dwell in God 
 dwell in love — he is all love. '* Love one 
 " another as I have loved you," was an in- 
 junction left by the dear Saviour with his 
 disciples : Oh ! that the whole race of man- 
 kind were his followers, then should they 
 be happy. 
 
 ' I cannot wish any creature a higher at- 
 tainment, than to enjoy the portion of bliss 
 dispensed unto me by my Heavenly Parent, 
 6 
 
6^ 
 
 ever bouniiful of his gifts ; nor a more rick 
 reward for thee, my beloved sister, who has 
 so often administered to my bodily necessi- 
 ties, indefatigable and unremitting in thy 
 aftectionate attentions, endeavouring to soothe 
 and comfort me all in thy power during this 
 long illness : — Oh ! may the Almighty bless 
 thee, as he has blessed thy unworthy sister, 
 which I desire to be more and more sensible 
 of, knowing 1 never deserved the favours 
 received ; mayest thou feel the same support 
 on a sick bed ; whenever it shall please In- 
 iinite Wisdom to confine thee to that narrow 
 space, may he make it as happy as mine has 
 been, and comfort thee by his good presence, 
 which only can buoy thee up under all af- 
 flictions, and enable to endure the pains of 
 disease without repining, or even thinking 
 the time tedious or long. Thou hast often 
 witnessed the manifold kindness of Provi- 
 dence, and his wonderful works, whilst en- 
 gaged with me, and I sincerely desire thou 
 mayest never sufter these numerous tokens 
 of Divine love to be erased from thy remem- 
 brance.^ 
 
 5 mo. 21. — ^Whilst this poor body lingers 
 under the weight of disease, the soul, never 
 Vvcaried waiting on its beloved Lord, re- 
 
63 
 
 plenished with dew from on liigb, soars aloft 
 on wings like an eagle, and faintetb not; — 
 they that wait on thee O Lord ! shall find 
 their strength renew ed. When attained unto 
 the measure and stature of the fulness of 
 grace, we are no longer strangers to the new 
 birth, but are as new born babes, desiring 
 the sincere milk of the Word. Oh ! my soul 
 art thou a babe in Christ thy Redeemer, 
 who can alone cleanse, and keep from siii 
 and corruption ?— hast thou, through the 
 washing of regeneration passed from death 
 unto life; and become a child of God, and 
 inheritor of the kingdom of Heaven, ever 
 delighted to hear the pure word of thy be- 
 loved?— It is a fine thing to know that we 
 are born again, thereby becoming " heirs of 
 i' God, and joint heirs with Christ" in his 
 kingdom of glory.— Better is it to seek after 
 a knowledge of the things that pertain to. 
 our peace, than to be over anxious for the 
 wisdom of this world, which is foolishness 
 with God — " Fear God, and keep his com- 
 'i mandments, for this is the whole duty of 
 'i man ; for God shall bring every work into 
 ^^ judgment, with every secret thing, whe- 
 " ther it be good or whether it be evil.'' 
 
 ' My dear sister, thou who art a parent, 
 consider the responsibility of thy situation, 
 and the pure state in which thy beloved 
 charge are delivered to thee ; sow not the 
 
64? 
 
 seeds of coiTuption, by indulging the vain 
 mind as it expands ; endeavour to preserve 
 tlieir iunocence as they advance in life ; nip 
 every evil propensity in the bud, suffer no 
 noxious weeds to take root and grow, which 
 destroy all tender plants. — Oh ! that these 
 lambs, entrusted to thy care by the Hea- 
 venly Shepherd, as they grow in years, may 
 grow in grace, and in favour with God and 
 man. The forming and training of the in- 
 fant mind devolves mostly on mothers, (par- 
 ticularly that of girls,) they had need to seek 
 best wisdom as their guide in this important 
 duty — this alone is able to direct in all the 
 concerns of life. Early inculcate a love and 
 reverence for their Creator, and a fear of of- 
 fending him in thought, w ord, or deed. In- 
 struct the tender mind in the principles of 
 piety and virtue, instilling therein an early 
 love of both ; keep them humble in ideas, 
 plain and simple in their dress : humility 
 goes before honour, and a haughty spirit be- 
 fore a fall. Winking at the foibles of chil- 
 dren is mistaken fondness, and often to be 
 regretted in more mature years ; it is not, in 
 my view, any mark of real parental love, 
 nor can it contribute to the comfort of pa- 
 rents or children. May they in after life re- 
 quite your care of their puerile years by walk- 
 ing in the Truth, which, that they may love, 
 and choose for their portion, is my chief 
 
65 
 
 wish for them. I fear not their further pros- 
 perity if Truth be their guide in all their 
 actions ; I covet for them to buy the Truth 
 early and sell it not — the first impressions 
 are generally most permanent, in which the 
 greater care should be observed to guard 
 the young mind, endeavouring to store it 
 with good — 
 
 " 'Tis education forms the tender mind, 
 "Just as the twig is bent, the tree's inclinM."' 
 
 5 mo. 22. — * This day very ill, thanks 
 and praise to my dear Lord ; no sleep from 
 between twelve and one o'clock last night : 
 '>^^^all my comforts proceed from the one great 
 source, and if humbly and gratefully ac- 
 knowledged, the end will crown every thing 
 and terminate all suffering — 
 
 " How long, O Lord ! shall mortal clay, 
 
 " Detain my soul from thee ; 
 " When shall the welcome message come, 
 
 " To set the captive free : 
 " Oh ! may I here in patience wait, 
 
 *' Till Jesus me to bliss translate." 
 
 'He is w^ell worth waiting for and watch- 
 ing diligently : I desire to maintain a strict 
 watch, that I may not be taken at unawares. 
 
 ^Hitherto 1 have helped thee and will 
 6* 
 
66 
 
 help. — la quietness and confidence will be 
 thy strength. These assurances have long 
 attended my mind, united with this comfort- 
 ing language: ^^Thou wilt keep him in per- 
 *^ feet peace whose mind is stayed on thee.'' 
 All hath been verified through the unmerit- 
 ed goodness and great power of my precious 
 Kedeemer, who hath done all for me — my 
 confidence remains unshaken; I fear not the 
 same preservation being graciously vouch- 
 safed to the end of my pilgrimage, — my 
 dear Saviour can and will, I humbly trust, 
 keep my courage undaunted, let what will 
 befal me : under the shadow of his wings 
 shall I take refuge, the only sure hiding 
 place. Oh ! may all be inspired with full 
 assurance to rely entirely on the Rock of 
 ages, against which the gates of hell shall 
 never prevail.' 
 
 5 mo. 26. — * Twelve months to-morrow 
 since my dear Anne was at meeting ; I be- 
 lieve next day was the attack which put a 
 period to my ever walking down stairs. I 
 praise and thank the Almighty good hand 
 that did all for my redemption. The body 
 only is afflicted, the soul goes on its way 
 rejoicing in its Creator; yea, my soul doth 
 magnify the Lord and my spirit hath rejoiced 
 
67 
 
 ia God iny Saviour, who bath regarded the 
 low estate of his handmaid, and from hence- 
 forth all may say, I have been marvellously 
 blessed and cared for — all my days are 
 happy. — Oh ! gratitude dost thou flow in 
 my heart to my Maker. — Providence has 
 preserved my memory unimpaired through 
 all, blessed for ever be his holy and worthy 
 name, he has done all for me : — I wish I 
 may not pass unnoticed, the least token of 
 divine love. 
 
 5 mo. Sy. — ^I have close combat this day 
 with the feelings of nature, being nearly 
 tried, parting with a dear sister, probably 
 for the last time : if not for the divine arm 
 which never leaves me helpless I must be- 
 tray human weakness; that is a sure anchor 
 to rest on, but for it, what should I be, a 
 poor frail mortal, destitute of all good. — la 
 our flesh dvvelleth corruption and impurity. 
 Our blessed Lord was seen to weep several 
 times, but nevrr to laugh — he wept over the 
 fallen state of Jerusalem, and for Lazarus 
 whom he loved ; 1 believe he will forgive a 
 few involuntary tears this day starting in 
 mine eyes; knowing our weakness, he pities 
 those that fear him. Truly my soul waiteth 
 on God; from him cometh my help — he only 
 
68 
 
 is my defence, I shall not be greatly moved. 
 Do thou, my dear sister, try to keep a firm 
 hold of confidence, fortitude, and resigna- 
 tion ; that whenever it shall please infinite 
 Wisdom to strike the separating blow, thou 
 mayest know where to fly for succour and 
 comfort, which if diligently sought after will 
 never disappoint. Oh! that Comforter, even 
 the Spirit of Truth, which leadeth into all 
 truth, is well worth an indefatigable search. 
 I feel assured that he who is faithful, uner- 
 ring, and a covenant keeping God, will be 
 near my beloved Anne in the hour of trial, 
 if the fault be not her own. He hath proved 
 to me, that they who trust him shall not 
 trust in vain.' 
 
 5 mo. 29. — ^ " Peace," said the dear Son 
 of God, " I leave with you, my peace I 
 <^give unto you; not as the world giveth^ 
 
 '^ give V ' 
 
 5 mo. 30. — * Peace, sweet peace, thou art 
 not to be slighted by me, but must be gain- 
 ed by obeciience. Oh ! my beloved sister, 1 
 am again brought into the low valley of 
 humiliation; by feeling that I am bound; in 
 
69 
 
 duty and obedience^ to the still small voice, 
 wliich I dare not disobey now, to see any of 
 my friends who shall incline to look at 
 a happy, redeemed creature, deprived of 
 strength to convey to them any thing by 
 speech. This morning it has been clearly 
 revealed, that I must show unto others the 
 continued goodness of my dear Lord, and 
 the great things he is still doing for me; and 
 though not able to declare any thing ver- 
 bally, I must let them judge from my coun- 
 tenance, the peace and happiness T enjoy in 
 this act of obedience to the Divine will : I 
 am assured it shall bring me its reward, 
 both whilst in this state and in eternity. 
 Oh ! I dare not refuse, however repugnant 
 to human nature. I do not discriminate, but 
 desire that such friends as feel a wish may 
 be gratified. I hope curiosity will not in- 
 fluence one, for to me it is awful not to obey 
 in every thing, and complying in this in- 
 stance is deeply humiliating to the natural 
 will in my now reduced state. 
 
 ' We are not to question the acts of the 
 Most High, nor to say, '^ What doest thou ?" 
 but to be passive in his holy hand. I hum- 
 bly trust this requiring may be beneficial to 
 survivors, and induce in all a total surren- 
 der of their own wills to the great Ruler, 
 who can bless or blight our prospects in the 
 twinkling of an eye. Marvellous are the 
 
70 
 
 Lord's works. Oh ! may such as have seen 
 me, and now behold again the wondrous 
 doings of the Almighty, never forget the 
 scene. I believe I am designed to be of 
 lasting advantage to some in this meeting, 
 if the fault be not their own ; may it finally 
 prove so, and 1 rejoice to be a sufferer in the 
 hand of Omnipotence; for his worthy name's 
 sake I give up all. I am promised support in 
 this as in former exertions. I believe every 
 little sacrifice will produce its reward to those 
 who submit the offering demanded.' 
 
 To some of her friends who came to see 
 her she wrote thus : — ' May this act of de- 
 dication to the divine will redound to the 
 praise and glory of Him to whom it is due. 
 I wish this visit may be sealed on each of 
 our minds my beloved friends — my dear 
 
 love to tell him I wish he may turn 
 
 unto the Lord, and serve him all his future 
 life. My chief delight is in seeking a reve- 
 lation of the sacred will, and acting consist- 
 ent therewith — thus brought to a child-like 
 state of control. Oh ! it is truly pleasant 
 to obey thee my precious Redeemer.' 
 
71 
 
 5 mo. 30. — ^ My soul thou art this day 
 filled with treasures which lie concealed^ 
 thou art enriched and made fat with joy ; 
 thus thou art rewarded for being obedient ; 
 my peace may be said to flow as a river. — 
 ^^ He brought me into his banq netting house, 
 '' and his banner over me was love'^ — the 
 altogether lovely, the chief among ten thou- 
 sand is my beloved ; his voice it is sweet, 
 and his countenance is comely; my beloved 
 is mine and I am his — yes, my dearest Je- 
 sus, thou art mine, and I humbly hope I am 
 thine forever and ever. I would rather be a 
 doorkeeper in thy holy house than dwell in 
 the tents of wickedness. 
 
 ^Oh! when will thy good time arrive, to 
 release my captive spirit? — but I must not 
 be impatient : I now see I was too anxious 
 to be gone to rest ; I am thankful that I was 
 disappointed, knowing it is for some good 
 and wise purpose that my life is prolonged, 
 for which, as for every blessing, I praise 
 the great Disposer of events, whose decrees 
 are all in wisdom, and his ways just and 
 equal. Lay not up for yourselves treasures 
 on earth, but lay up treasures in heaven ; for 
 where your treasure is, there will your heart 
 be also : — seek first the kingdom of God and 
 his righteousness, and every thing necessary 
 will be added unto you. May I be faithful, 
 obedient, and patient to the end, and be 
 
7S 
 
 made a pillar in the house of my God, to go 
 no more out. I am aii undeserving^ unpro- 
 fitable servant, but I have a merciful Judge 
 to appear before, whose forgiveness of my 
 past errors, though numerous, I have no 
 doubt of: T hope they have already appear- 
 ed in judgment and are blotted out. 
 
 ^ It is a fearful state to despise the day of 
 small things, or slight the offers of Omnipo- 
 tence; to deny or be ashamed of Him, 
 through the shedding of whose precious 
 blood all are saved, by having their robes 
 washed and purified therein. Let such as 
 are conscious of denying the Holy One and 
 the Just, the Prince of Peace, take care that 
 if they persist in so doing, he may " laugh 
 "'^ at their calamity, and mock when their 
 " fear cometh.^' I earnestly wish that the 
 eyes of these may be speedily opened to 
 behold their critical and awful situation, un- 
 less they return with a repentant heart. 
 
 ^I tenderly entreat all, to bear their cross 
 and despise the shame, counting it a glory to 
 suffer in the cause of a dear crucified Saviour, 
 who bled for the remission of sins, who is the 
 only salvation of every soul, and who declar- 
 ed, " he that taketh not his cross and foUow- 
 " eth after me is not worthy of me ;*' and 
 ^^ whosoever shall confess me before men, 
 '' him will I also confess before my Father 
 *^ which is in heaven, but whosoever shall 
 
73 
 
 ^^ deny me before men, him will T also deny 
 ^^ before my Father which is in heaven.'' — 
 Why am 1 thus exercised, unless for a warn- 
 ing call to backsliders? Oh! that none may 
 be " like the deaf adder, that stoppeth her 
 ^^ ear, which will not listen to the voice of 
 " charmers, charming never so wisely.'' ^ 
 
 5 mo. 81. — '' Stay me with flagons, com- 
 ^^fort me with apples, for I am sick of love.'^ 
 — Thus is the church described with her be- 
 loved ; so I venture to compare my own 
 state this day, a cup overflov* ing with peace, 
 love and joy. Oh bliss unutterable ! almost 
 too much to bear whilst clad in mortal garb : 
 who would wish to stay, serving this fading 
 world, pursuing its deceitful allurements ? 
 
 " They build too low who build beneath the skies." 
 
 'Is it not inviting to serve with fidelity, 
 and obey w ith alacrity, every requiring of 
 so good a Master, who requites thus liberal- 
 ly? — nothing should tempt to refuse acqui- 
 escence at all times. Through the tender 
 dealings and power of the Most High my 
 will is subjected, and I hope ever to yield 
 compliance during my existence. Yes, my 
 soul, thou art firmly fixed, and enjoys too 
 large a share of happiness to dare be un- 
 7 
 
grateful, by opposing the will of thy Maker 
 ia any degree. To persevere in resistance 
 is vain, for as the sturdy oak bends to the 
 axe of the feller, so must the most resolute 
 will finally bend to the power of a Supreme 
 Huler. The tall cedars of Lebanon and the 
 lofty oaks of Bashan must bow ; all high 
 looks and every proud heart will the Lord 
 bring down. ^^Grod resisteth the proud, but 
 ^^ giveth grace unto the humble — whosoever 
 " exalteth himself shall be abased, and he 
 •^that humbleth himself shall be exalted.'^ 
 In prosperity be not puffed up, and in ad- 
 versity do thou consider. '• If ye be willing 
 " and obedient ye shall eat the good of the 
 '^ land." — '* The meek will he guide in 
 ^^ judgment, and the meek will he teach his 
 ^' way.'' — " It is of the Lord's mercies that 
 '• we are not consumed, because his compas- 
 '^ sions fail not ; they are new every morn- 
 ^^ing; great is thy faithfulness." 
 
 ' It is all grace, free, unmerited grace, 
 whereby we are saved. ^^All our righteous- 
 '' nesses are as filthy rags." Dare not to 
 ascribe any thing, however trifling, to the 
 creature, but give all honour and praise to 
 the Creator, from whom cometh every good 
 thing we possess. — Self should always be 
 abased as in dust and ashes ; a poor frail 
 worm of the earth, full of sin and corrup- 
 tion, void of any good. May the dear Son 
 
75 
 
 of God, the Lamb immaculate, become the 
 joy and praise of the whole earth. 1 have 
 none in heaven but thee, nor in the earth that 
 I desire in comparison of thee, my precious, 
 blessed Redeemer, who has done all for my 
 purification. It is a truth, that " the heart 
 ^' knoweth his own bitterness, and a stranger 
 *^ doth not intermeddle with his joy.^^ ' 
 
 6 mo. 2. — • By my external composure, 
 judge the reigning internal calm and quiet. 
 Suppose not, my dear friends, that I am de- 
 pressed on seeing you, since articulation 
 has ceased ; I feel gratitude and praise fill 
 my heart in being strengthened in this act 
 of obedience to my great Master, believing 
 it intended to be of use to those who here 
 witness the wondrous works, and continued 
 mercies of a kind omnipotent Ruler, that 
 has inspired me with a lively interest in his 
 glorious cause, and fortified human weak- 
 ness to serve him through all, however 
 great the cross. Require what thou wilt, 
 my dear Lord, only speak the word and 
 thy servant shall obey, having by thine own 
 power and love effected entire submission, 
 and a total surrender of self for thy dear 
 sake ; nothing is too much to give up, thou 
 hast made hard things easy and bitter things 
 
76 
 
 sweet; witiiout thee I am helpless and des- 
 titute : I doubt not thy sustaining, comfort- 
 ing presence to the close of life ; thou art 
 my only hope, and may all terminate in thy 
 glory, honour, and praise; promoting a faith- 
 ful service in thy blessed work on earth, for 
 thou, my beloved Redeemer, art alone 
 worthy to be loved, served, feared, and 
 obeyed for evermore ! 
 
 ' I am far more than repaid for all out- 
 ward privations ; every morning, yea, each 
 moment demands my humble gratitude and 
 unremitting assiduity. As the hand of the 
 diligent bringeth riches in the temporal, so 
 it doth in the spiritual life. May the aged, 
 the middle aged, and young, be excited to 
 continual labour, and seriously consider the 
 uncertain moment, when the inhabitants of 
 these tottering mansions of clay may be call- 
 ed, prepared or unprepared, to meet the great 
 just Judge of quick and dead, who weigheth 
 our actions in an even balance: — Be ye 
 ready in waiting for the sound of the trumpet. 
 
 ' I ardently crave that the number of truly 
 devoted servants may increase, that the de- 
 solations and numerous breaches made in 
 the Lord^s camp, through unfaithfulness to 
 the principle, may be soon repaired thereby. 
 O, Zion! thou glorious Mount Zion! a quiet 
 habitation, peace be within thy walls, and 
 prosperity within tliy palaces ; raayest thou 
 
77 
 
 become the beauty ami joy of all nations. 
 Each of yon^ my beloved friends, press for- 
 ward to the mark ; take up your cross, and 
 finally obtain the prize in view. The race 
 is not to the swift, nor the battle to the 
 strong. Let such as are invited to the mar- 
 riage supper take care of making excuses, 
 lest the halt and the maimed, or those in the 
 highways and hedges, should be made par- 
 takers thereof, and you cast out. Oh ! it is 
 an awful thing to delay, or refuse the hea- 
 venly visitation ; many are called but few 
 are chosen ; the last shall be first and the 
 first last. I pray the Lord of the vineyard 
 that he may send forth labourers into his 
 vineyard, each to receive the reward, they 
 who work but one hour, as they that bear 
 the burden and heat of the day. 
 
 ^ My desires are frequent, and I hope sin- 
 cere, to be preserved from any selfish mo- 
 tive influencing my actions, in leaving a me- 
 morial of unmerited favours so bountifully 
 bestowed on me. The honour and praise of 
 my Maker, I humbly trust, are now my 
 chief delight to seek. I hope I am not de- 
 ceived in believing that the main bent of my 
 inclination is to do all I can in the service of 
 my Heavenly Father, who has done so much 
 for me; thus to endeavour to make some 
 restitution for past errors and omissions 
 which I was guilty of. Should this frail 
 7* 
 
7S 
 
 mortal desire at any time to boast, be puffed 
 lip, or wish the least merit, oh ! that it may 
 be mortified and abased in the earth, brought 
 o nothing, as it really is in the sight of an 
 bmniscient, perfect Deity, without whose aid 
 it cannot even think a good thought, much 
 less do a good act. Ah ! my dear friends, 
 humble the creature, I entreat you, but ex- 
 alt and highly extol the Creator for all, 
 whose right it is to rule and have the pre- 
 eminence. 
 
 ^ We should not fail to celebrate the good- 
 laess of the Almighty, in the ears of them 
 afar off, that so they might be induced to 
 draw near unto him and be saved. ^* Look 
 ^^ unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of 
 '^ the earth.'' " Draw nigh to God, and he 
 *^ will draw nigh to you,'' saith the Apostle. 
 "'•' Come now, and let us reason together, 
 '' saith the Lord : though your sins be as 
 ^^ scarlet, they shall be as white as snow, 
 '^ though they be red like crimson, they 
 " shall be as wool." Surely here is every 
 encouragement for backsliders to return unto 
 the Lord, who will heal their backslidings 
 and forgive their iniquities, if the heart be 
 truly repentant. — There is more joy in hea- 
 ven over one sinner that repenteth tlian over 
 ninety and nine just persons that need not 
 Fepeii lance. 
 
 ^ In that love which iaflueiices me to wish 
 
79 
 
 every creature the same portion of happiness 
 with myself, I earnestly desire those who 
 are aloof may speedily come near, and s»b- 
 mit to the refining, purifying operations of 
 the Word of Truth revealed in the secret of 
 the soul. No longer resist or stifle the still 
 small voice, which invites in the most ten- 
 der, gentle language, — yea, like a fond pa- 
 rent, wishing all his children to he happy. 
 The way Is plain, and so simple, that none 
 need go astray : " the wayfaring men, though 
 ^^ fools, shall not err therein.'' '' Seek ye 
 " the Lord while he may be found, call ye 
 *^upon him while he is near. Let the wick- 
 '^ed forsake his way, and the unrighteous 
 ^' man his thoughts, and let him return unto 
 ^^the Lord, and he will have mercy upon 
 ^' him, and to our God, for he will abun- 
 '^dantly pardon." Be no longer governed 
 by shame, but publicly avow yourselves on 
 your Redeemer's side, proving by the sim- 
 plicity of dress and address, that you are his 
 followers, for whose cause our worthy pre- 
 decessors counted it a glorious thing to suf- 
 fer: they were not ashamed of a plain garb, 
 or of being reckoned singular by the world, 
 clearly evinciug by their upright life and 
 conversation their leader and guide to be the 
 Spirit of I'rulh, which leads into all truth, 
 and only can preserve in rectitude of con- 
 duct. " Come out from among them and be 
 
80 
 
 "ye separate, and touch not the unclean 
 '^ thing; and I will receive you, and will be 
 ^' a fjither unto you, and ye shall he my sons 
 *^ and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty/ 
 
 6 mo. 3. — " The fear of the Lord is the 
 ^^ beginning of wisdom/' and ^^ to depart 
 ^^ from evil is understanding:'' — ^* he hath 
 ^' showed thee, O man, what is good, and 
 *' what doth the Lord require of thee, but to 
 ^^ do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk 
 ^' humbly with thy God ?" I long for all to 
 come and see how good the Lord is, to taste 
 the sweets of his love for themselves. Every 
 sacrifice requisite for this attainment should 
 be made, however great, though comparable 
 to faithful Abraham offering his son Isaac. 
 '* Faith is the substance of things hoped for, 
 '' the evidence of things not seen :" it re- 
 moves mountainous obstacles ; — *' If ye have 
 ^' faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall 
 *^say unto this mountain. Remove hence to 
 ^^ yonder place, and it shall remove," said 
 the dear Redeemer to his disciples. Un- 
 shaken faith is a truly desirable possession 
 — may this gift spread and abound in every 
 heart, so that when tried, they may prove 
 the foundation immoveable as a rock. A 
 true believer has many blessings : " JBlessed 
 
81 
 
 ^^ are tliey that have not seen and yet have 
 '^ believed/^ said my precious Saviour to 
 Thomas, who did not believe him to be the 
 Lord till he called him to thrust his hand 
 into his side, and put his fingers in the print 
 of the nails — '^ be not faithless but believ- 
 ^^ing:" then he said, ^^ My Lord and my 
 ^' God !" Oh ! that not one may be in the 
 alarming state of an unbeliever.' 
 
 On seeing a few friends who visited her, 
 $he wrote thus : — 
 
 ' The love and tender solicitude of my 
 mind for my dear friends can only be known 
 by Him from whom the heart is not conceal- 
 ed. Ah ! serve the Lord faithfully and with 
 diligence, I entreat you, for the peace flow- 
 ing in an obedient mind is indescribable. I 
 would allure every creature to make a free 
 surrender of all demanded; keep nothing 
 back; the Lord loveth an early sacrifice. 
 Let not this visit pass away as the early 
 dew or a morning cloud, but be it sealed on 
 each mind. 
 
 ' I hope gratitude fills my heart, in being 
 enabled to see my dear friends ; and though 
 articulation has ceased, I am not depressed 
 on seeing you. Oh ! that all may redound 
 to the praise of Him that has done all.' 
 
(5 mo. 5. — ^ We have many instances re- 
 corded in sacred writ of the blessinsrs at- 
 tending a firm belief and true faith in the 
 word of the Holy One through the mouths 
 of his messengers; by this the barrel of meal 
 wasted not, neither did the cruse of oil fail, 
 till the day that the Lord sent rain on the 
 earth, as foretold by Elijah, the man of God, 
 whose word being despised by the unbeliev- 
 ing lord, that said, '* If the Lord would 
 '' make windows in heaven, might this thing 
 ^^ be." — "Behold, thou shalt see it with 
 *^ thine eyes, but shalt not cat thereof," was 
 the reply of the Prophet ; which was verifi- 
 ed, for he was trodden to death in the gate 
 of the city : he saw the plenty but did not 
 taste it. 
 
 ' My feelings have been deeply wounded, 
 and sorrow has filled my heart, on hearing 
 the public declarations of ministers torn to 
 pieces and made little of. I tenderly warn 
 all not to encourage this disposition. Oh ! 
 let none practice this offence in the sight of 
 an omniscient, omnipresent Deity, who re- 
 gards according to our actions, and will 
 punish disobedience one day or other. Very 
 unexpectedly has my mind been thus im- 
 pressed this day, which I venture to disclose 
 in, I trust, humble fear, lest I should act 
 contrary to the will of my faithful Creator, 
 who I desire may rule and govern all in me : 
 
8a 
 
 lie is the mighty Counsellor, the everlasting 
 Father, and the Prince of Peace, showing 
 kindness to the unthankful, and mercy to 
 the cruel ; his judgment is not harsh or se- 
 vere, but lenient and compassionate to trans- 
 gressors. Oh ! that his law and his testimony 
 may no longer be trampled on. " The law 
 " of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul ; 
 ^' the testimony of the Lord is sure, making 
 " wise the simple ; the statutes of the Lord 
 *' are right, rejoicing the heart; the com- 
 " mandment of the Lord is pure, enlighten- 
 ^' ing the eyes ; the fear of the Lord is clean, 
 ^^ enduring for ever; the judgments of the 
 ^' Lord are true and righteous altogether : 
 ^^ more to be desired are they than gold, yea, 
 ^' than much fine gold, sweeter also than ho- 
 ^^ ney and the honey-comb.'' — " There is no 
 '^ man that hath left house, or brethren, or 
 ^^ sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or 
 ^•children, or lands for my sake and the 
 ^^ gospel's, but he shall receive an hundred 
 '' fold now in this time, and in the world to 
 ^' come eternal life," said our holy Pattern, 
 whose reward is sure to such as serve him 
 faithfully ; let the world receive them as it 
 may, no condemnation shall rest on their 
 heads, but greater w ill it be on their perse- 
 cutors. 
 
 " Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that 
 '' is within me bless his holy name : bless 
 
84i 
 
 '^ the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all 
 "his benefits; who forgiveth all thine ini- 
 '' quities, who healeth all thy diseases.'' 
 Truly pleasant is it to serve the King of 
 kings ; his yoke it is easy and his burdea 
 light. May you that have not yet taken his 
 yoke on your shoulders be induced to come 
 and feel its ease ; no longer delay entering 
 into the strait and narrow way which leadeth 
 unto life: they who walk in wisdom's ways 
 shall find them pleasant, and all her paths 
 peace. It may be truly said, " in thy pre- 
 " sence," O Lord, " is fulness of joy, and at 
 ^' thy right hand there are pleasures for ever- 
 ^' more." — " There is a river, the streams 
 " whereof shall make glad the city of God," 
 running through that glorious city, the beau- 
 tiful Mount Zion, the new Jerusalem, where- 
 in thou, O Immanuel! presides, the walls 
 thereof are salvation, and its gates are 
 praise. 
 
 ' Not sleeping much leaves me fine time 
 for meditation, and for enjoying a calm, un- 
 ruffled mind. I hope I am diligent in em- 
 ploying all in gratitude and praise to the 
 Author of all my unmerited blessings. Oh! 
 what am I, to be thus cared for? — each day 
 visited with the extendings of the Father's 
 love, w ho condescends to dwell with one of 
 the meanest, most unworthy and unprofit- 
 able of his servants. The hours are swift, 
 and run smiling away^ though not many ia 
 
85 
 
 the twenty-four strike unknown to me. — Ai:t 
 thou humble and grateful, my soul for all 
 these favours, high favours, wholly unde- 
 served by thee ? While the day begins and 
 ends in peace, there is good reason to hope 
 the heart is accepted by its Maker, to whom 
 be all the praise and adoration, who wrought 
 this great work.' 
 
 6 mo. 6. — ^ Oh ! happy moments, happy 
 moments iiit away, and let the happier one 
 come on that shall unite thee, my soul, to 
 thy well-beloved, never more to be disturb- 
 ed nor separated from Him, with whom 
 thou delights to dwell ; then thy bliss will 
 have no alloy. — Be faithful and patient to 
 the end, and a crown of glory is prepared 
 for thee. Are not thy desires to allure 
 others to the same state, as thy dear Re- 
 deemer has, through his invincible power 
 and unmerited goodness, brought thee to? 
 But thy chief joys, daily multiplied, lie con- 
 cealed from human observation. 
 
 ^^ Blessed are those servants whom the 
 ^' Lord when he cometh shall find watching."' 
 Oh ! may I be found ready in waiting any 
 hour the bridegroom shall please to come. 
 Have your lamps trimmed, my dear friends, 
 ere the midnight cry is heard, lest the door 
 8 
 
86 
 
 be sliiit^ and the sentence pass — " I know 
 ^^ you not.'^ Woeful are these words, I know 
 you not. Individually seek to deserve the 
 blessed sentence of ^' Well done, good and 
 '( faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of 
 ^^ thy Lord/' Resolve with Joshua formerly, 
 let others do as they may, ^^ as for me and 
 ^^ my house we will serve the Lord/' If all 
 hearts were thus religiously concerned, the 
 many deviations and inconsistencies so ob- 
 vious amongst us would be removed, and a 
 true desire to attend to the limitations of 
 Truth in thought, word, and deed, would be 
 entertained ; thus we should be as lights in the 
 world, a city set on a hill that cannot be hid, 
 keeping a single eye to our holy Leader, — 
 that others seeing our good works might be 
 induced to walk in the same path, and glorify 
 our Father which is in heaven/ 
 
 6 mo. 7- — ^ I think it was a distinguished 
 statesman formerly who near the close of his 
 life expressed himself thus, — "While we 
 ^' laugh, all things are serious round about 
 ** us ; God is serious who preserveth us and 
 ^^ hath patience towards us ; Christ is serious 
 ^^ who shed his blood for us; the Holy Ghost 
 ^^ is serious when he striveth with us ; the 
 " whole creation is serious in serving God and 
 
87 
 
 •' us; they are serious in heaven and in hell ; 
 ^^ how then can we he gay ?"^ I disclose in 
 simplicity my thoughts as they occur : Levity 
 of conduct, or much light, frivolous conver- 
 sation, to me indicates a vacuum in the 
 mind; talking much tendeth not to profit, for 
 they that say much say some in vain. We 
 read, " that every idle word that men shall^ 
 ^^ speak, they shall give an account thereof 
 ^'in the day of judgment;" this thought 
 should excite in each a continual watchful 
 care of our words and actions, also a frequent 
 severe scrutiny of ourselves, to preserve a 
 clear, impartial account against the last day. 
 ^^Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, 
 ^' and ye shall find ; knock, and it shall be 
 " opened unto you ; for every one that 
 " asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh find- 
 '' eth, and to him that knocketh it shall be 
 " opened.'^ Grod giveth to all liberally and 
 upbraideth not. He who clothes the lilies, 
 feeds the sparrows, and commanded the ra- 
 vens to feed the prophet Elijah, is not to be 
 distrusted in anything. " If a son shall ask 
 " bread of any of you that is a father, will 
 ^' he give him a stone, or if he ask a fish 
 '^ will he for a fish give him a serpent, or if 
 *^ he shall ask an egg will he offer him a 
 " scorpion ? — If ye then, being evil, know 
 " how to give good gifts unto your children, 
 " how much more shall your Heavenly Fa- 
 
88 
 
 •• tlier give the Holy Spirit to them that ask 
 ^* him?^' — Oh! this is my only preserver, 
 supporter, comforter, and provider; what 
 should I he if deprived of it? Pilgrim, poor 
 and helpless, without any good thing what- 
 ever. If we expect a continuance of this his 
 first, great Messing, we must petition for it 
 daily, in sincere, humhle confidence, pa- 
 tiently waiting the will and time of the wise, 
 good Giver : this inestimahle gift is worth a 
 quiet, long v/aiting for; let none tire though 
 tedious the time may seem ; the more patient, 
 the greater will be the gain ultimately ; this 
 I testify from certain experience, and my 
 heart delights in celebrating and extolling 
 the name of the everlasting Jehovah, who 
 hath said of old, ^^ The mountains shall de- 
 *^ part and the hills be removed, but my kind- 
 *^ ness shall not depart from thee, neither 
 " shall the covenant of my peace be re- 
 *• moved, saith the Lord that hath mercy 
 *'• on thee/' — "Behold I have created the 
 »^ smith that blovveth the coals in the fire, 
 *'and that bringeth forth an instrument for 
 " his work ; and I have created the waster 
 "^ to destroy : no weapon that is formed 
 *• against thee shall prosper, and every 
 '' tongue that shall rise against thee in judg- 
 ^^ ment thou shalt condemn; this is the heri- 
 •*^ tage of the servants of the Lord, and their 
 '' righteousness is of me^ saith the Lord^'^ 
 
89 
 
 6 mo. 22.—^ Yery weak ia body, bat the 
 soul renewedly strengthened and made hap- 
 py : Praise, praise, glory and gratitude ever 
 be its return; which every moment calls for/ 
 
 7 mo. 3:—^ What must be the joys of hea- 
 ven when I am so happy on earth. I hope 
 soon to be there. Oh! happy moment, happy 
 will it be ! Praise, high praise and glory be 
 thine for evermore, my beloved Immanuel, 
 who art glorious in holiness, fearful in praises. 
 Oh ! mayest thou become the praise and the 
 glory of the whole earth, my adored Re- 
 deemer. Of all that come unto thee in faith 
 and true belief, seeking salvation, none wilt 
 thou refuse ; a good, gracious and merciful 
 Saviour, for ever good thou art : may thy 
 blessed work prosper in every heart, and 
 thy holy will be done on earth as it is ia 
 heaven. Thy service is truly pleasant, de- 
 lightful it is to obey thy sweet voice, no 
 comfort equal to it : my Heavenly Father 
 thou hast been and continues a true com- 
 forter to me; thy pure unerring will and 
 good time, demand in justice a long, patient, 
 quiet waiting : better art thou than thou- 
 sands of worlds : I have none in heaven but 
 thee, nor in the earth that I desire in com- 
 parison of thee. Thou, my adored, will keep 
 8* 
 
90 
 
 me patient to thy own good hour. Blessed 
 be thy holy name now and forever, no cross, 
 suffering, or affliction whatever dispensed, 
 too great, nothing too near or too dear to re- 
 sign for the sake of that poAverful, good 
 hand, which has subjected my impure will. 
 ^ I would call the attention of my friends 
 of every age to a serious reading and fre- 
 quent recurrence to the truths contained in 
 the Epistle of the London Yearly Meeting, 
 [1821] which I am favoured to peruse, over 
 and over, with thankful satisfaction; believ- 
 ing that the Lord has yet a scattered rem- 
 nant preserved, zealous of good works, en- 
 deavouring to discharge their allotted duties 
 in faithfulness, supporting his precious law 
 and testimony, not ashamed of the religion 
 of Jesus Christ. 1 humbly trust that the 
 faithful number may increase. Feeling 
 warmly interested in the affairs of the Church, 
 strong desires attend me that the great Lord 
 of the harvest may please to send forth la- 
 bourers into his plentiful harvest, that all 
 breaches and waste places may be repaired 
 and filled up, to the glory and praise of our 
 God, to whom alone any honour is due. Let 
 not one heart rob him of his due, by ascrib- 
 ing the least merit to the creature, that should 
 ever be abased as in dust and ashes. Oh ! 
 that I could enlist numbers into ImmanueFs 
 service, under whose banner suffering is joy- 
 
91 
 
 ous ; my soul craves a flocking to the house 
 of the Lord, as of doves to their windows; 
 that they may come from the east and from 
 the west, from the north and from the south, 
 to join themselves to the only God of their 
 salvation. 
 
 ' Parents, every where, seek to walk in 
 the light, keeping a single eye to the Lord, 
 desiring his gracious aid, that you may act 
 as faithful good stewards over the part of his 
 heritage entrusted to your care; thus each 
 finally receive the blessed sentence of '' w ell 
 •^ done thou good and faithful servant, en- 
 *'ter thou into the joy of thy Lord.'' May 
 the faithful in all classes, of every religious 
 persuasion through the globe, be preserved, 
 and the backsliders return and repent of 
 their outsteppings, fully aware of the peril- 
 ous state into which Satan plunges the un- 
 watchful mind. Oh ! return, return, in sin- 
 cerity, all transgressors, high and low, rich 
 and poor, I entreat you; serve your God, 
 and he will forgive you, who hath said, 
 ^^joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that 
 •* repenteth, more than over ninety and nine 
 "just persons that need no repentance.'^ 
 Pray not, as did the self-righteous Pharisee, 
 but in contrition and humility, like the Pub- 
 lican, self-condemned, who smote his breast 
 and said, " God be merciful to me a sinner :" 
 by which he was more justified than the 
 
93 
 
 other ; as said our blessed Lord, ^^ wlioso- 
 '^ever exalteth himself shall be abased, and 
 ^^ he that humbleth himself shall be exalt- 
 ^^ed.'^ 
 
 ^ Oh ! the peace and joy which flow from 
 doing any thing acceptable in the Divine 
 sight. I dare not even write a line in my 
 own will or time. — Happy state ! true sub- 
 jection of human nature ! entire resignation 
 to the only refiner of hearts, who through 
 various trying baptisms, necessary to efi'ect 
 the important, awful work of our redemp- 
 tion, thus bends the corrupt will. This 
 great work should not be delayed or trifled 
 with by us, poor finite mortals. Oh ! it is 
 deeply interesting, and blessed to such as 
 patiently abide its chastening influence. 
 When 1 look to futurity, all is joy, pure, 
 unmixed joy. Sv»^eet death, thou art not to 
 alarm me, end of my sufferings^ crowning 
 all hopes ! 
 
 ' Oh! that I could warn or induce all my 
 associates to separate from every thing con- 
 trary to a happy immortality — no longer to 
 serve this world, but serve their only Sa- 
 viour — in time of health yield unreservedly 
 your wills to the convictions and unerring 
 guidance of the Spirit of Truth, ever lead- 
 ing in the simple strait path to eternal life.' 
 
93 
 
 Soon after the foregoing was written, 
 Margaret Jackson ceased to use her pen. 
 She continued for more than six months with- 
 out much apparent change, and in the full 
 possession of her mental faculties, tliough 
 unable to utter a word; her bodily strength 
 w^as worn down almost to the last extremity, 
 yet under these trying circumstances she be- 
 trayed not the least impatience; the tran- 
 quillity of her demeanour and sweetness of 
 her countenance were remarkable, and evi- 
 denced that all within was peace. 
 
 A brief record of the circumstances im- 
 mediately preceding her release from the 
 bonds of mortality, was preserved by those 
 who attended on her : — 
 
 18S2, 1 mo. 30.— This day she was at- 
 tacked with a violent pain, which lasted se- 
 veral hours : the night was a memorable 
 one, wherein the long-suspended faculty of 
 speech was restored to her, to the astonish- 
 ment of the attendant who was sitting up 
 with her. About eleven o'clock she raised 
 her voice in prayer, after being eight months 
 deprived of the power of articulation, — on 
 being asked if she wished her sister, who 
 was in a delicate state of health, to be called 
 up, she said she would not have her dis- 
 turbed, for she was convinced she could 
 speak to her in the niornicg. 
 
94 
 
 31st. — On her sister going into the room, 
 she said to her, '* My astonishment was 
 ^^ great to find my tongue so suddenly loos- 
 " ened, as the minute before I spoke I do 
 ^^ not think I could have articulated a word ;" 
 — and compared herself to Zacharias in the 
 temple at the time that John the Baptist 
 was presented before him. She also said, 
 that during the eight months she was silent, 
 she enjoyed unutterable happiness. Most 
 of her conversation this day consisted of in- 
 quiries after her friends, and desiring that 
 her love might be given to all, both in and 
 out of the society. She w^as much tried dur- 
 ing the day with restlessness, and said, she 
 hoped soon to be where she should hear and 
 join in the song of Moses and of the Lamb, 
 where the morning stars sing together, and 
 the sons of God shout for joy. She dwelt 
 much on the inconsistencies in dress and 
 behaviour that prevail in the society, and 
 said, she thought she could scarcely then 
 bear to see a fashionably dressed person. 
 
 2 mo. 1. — In the afternoon she expressed 
 a wish that her sister should take her sup- 
 per, for the last time, in her room : she con- 
 versed on various subjects till a late hour. 
 
 5th. — This day she was again attacked 
 with the same extreme pain, which, she re- 
 
95 
 
 marked, was no common pain. She pray- 
 ed in the most animated and feeling manner, 
 that if consistent with the Divine will, she 
 might quickly be released from all her suf- 
 ferings ; but she had no doubt all would yet 
 be well. 
 
 15th. — From the foregoing to this date, 
 she continued to suffer much pain at times : 
 — this day she is lying quite still, and seems 
 to take but little notice of the objects about 
 her : — her breathing is much affected. 
 
 16th. — Through most part of last night 
 her breathing continued to grow weaker, 
 until about ten minutes before eight o'clock 
 this morning, when it ceased — and we reve- 
 rently believe, her purified, happy spirit, 
 took its flight to the realms of everlasting 
 rest and peace. 
 
 THE END. 
 
 SKERRETT — EOCrST STREET, 
 I'HJLADELPaiA. 
 
THE FOLLOWING PUBLICATION^ 
 JiRE FOR SJILE 
 
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 No. 20, NORTH THIRD STREET. 
 
 MEMOIRS and SELECT REMAINS of an 
 ONLY SON, who died November 27, 1821, in 
 his 19th year, while a student in the University of 
 Glasgow. By Thomas Durant, Poole, Dorset, 
 England. 
 
 MEMOIRS of the late MARY COOPER, of 
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 L. L. D. 
 
 PRIVATE CORRESPONDENCE of WIL- 
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 MEMOIRS of the LIFE and RELIGIOUS 
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 EXTRACTS from the PAPERS of EDWIN 
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